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GEORGE TOWN, June 5 — The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) issued 17 compounds last month to individuals found feeding pigeons and crows as part of efforts to curb the growing population of pest birds in urban areas.

In a statement today, MBPP said feeding birds was among the key factors contributing to the increasing population of pest birds, particularly pigeons and crows, on the island.

“The compounds were issued under Section 47(1)(g) of the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 against individuals who failed to comply with the prohibition.

“Throughout May, MBPP also conducted continuous control operations, during which 1,817 pigeons and 2,607 crows were culled, while 125 crow nests were destroyed to prevent a further increase in their population,” the statement said.

MBPP also said it would continue to step up control operations and enforcement activities from time to time to ensure a clean, safe and conducive urban environment for all Penangites.

The city council also reminded the public not to feed wild birds, as such action could contribute to an increase in the population of pest birds and adversely affect public hygiene and health. — Bernama

KATHMANDU, June 4 — A Nepali climbing guide who went missing on Mount Everest for six days and was believed dead has been found alive after crawling alone almost to Base Camp, officials told AFP today.

His wife had even begun to offer last rite prayers for his soul, she told AFP at the hospital in the capital Kathmandu, where he is recovering from “some frostbite” but is conscious.

Mountaineer Dawa Sherpa — who is in his 50s, and is better known as “Hillary” after famed climber Edmund Hillary due to his experience — vanished on the upper reaches of the world’s highest mountain in bitter conditions, early on May 30.

He was found this morning close to Base Camp by the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC), a Nepali team that helps set routes on Everest and clean up waste left behind.

“He was found by a team of SPCC this morning close to the base camp — he was crawling down,” Pemba Sherpa of 8K Expeditions, which was overseeing search and rescue efforts, told AFP.

A helicopter flew him to Kathmandu, where an AFP team saw him carried out on a stretcher.

“I spoke to the doctors — he has some frostbite, but otherwise seems okay,” Pemba Sherpa added.

His wife Damu Sherpa said her family was overjoyed.

“We were very happy to hear the news, we had given up hope,” she said. “We also began puja (death prayers) yesterday.”

This photograph taken on May 20, 2026, shows mountaineers climbing a slope lined up during their ascent from the Hillary Step to summit Mount Everest in Nepal.

‘Tiger of the mountains’ 

Climber Chris Thrall, a former British Royal Marine, said he successfully summited the 8,849-metre peak with Sherpa around 5pm on May 29.

He posted a video message on Instagram yesterday morning what he thought was the death of Dawa Sherpa.

He called him an “absolute gentle giant of a man and a true ‘tiger of the mountains’”, in a post that assumed the worst.

Thrall described how on May 30 he had begun to descend from Camp Four — at around 7,950m — and just below the low-oxygen “death zone”.

He said that as he descended, Dawa Sherpa stopped.

“He sat down for a rest with his backpack, these guys carry huge loads,” he said.

“And I turned and I said, ‘Hillary, are you okay, brother?’ He said, ‘Yes, yes, fine Chris, please go, go!’ This is nothing new, you know, I’d go ahead, he’d go ahead.”

As Thrall went down, he found a Polish climber who was struggling after running out of supplementary oxygen and had suffered frostbite.

“It had been a long summit push. What should have been five days to the summit and back took us 11 days, that’s how challenging the conditions were,” said Thrall.

“So, do I go back for Sherpa, who’s probably going to rock up and be fine, as he has done hundreds of times before?” he added.

“Or do I help my fellow climber, who’s got no oxygen, frostbite in his fingers, and obviously you’re never far off hypothermia up there?”

Thrall described tough conditions, sharing his oxygen cylinder with the Pole as they descended, taking 11 hours to get to Camp Three. It would usually take two hours.

“I realised we had a really serious situation,” he said.

Search teams set out to find Dawa Sherpa but he was not seen again until this morning, having made his way down on his own.

The climb was one of the last of the season, meaning that there were few other mountaineers on the peak.

At least five people have died this season — two Indians and three Nepali climbers involved in Everest preparations.

More than 1,000 climbers reached the summit of Everest this season, according to initial tallies by Nepali officials, making it the busiest season on record. — AFP

Maintaining a comfortable home can be frustrating when different areas of your house experience uneven temperatures. Some rooms may feel too hot in summer or too cold in winter, while others are just right. Standard HVAC systems often struggle to balance these differences, leading to wasted energy, high utility bills, and constant adjustments. Homeowners may find themselves layering blankets, running extra fans, or constantly changing thermostats. These discomforts highlight the need for smarter heating and cooling solutions that adapt to each space individually.

For residents in Springfield, MO, Redeemed HVAC & Plumbing offers a tailored approach to home comfort through zoning systems. Our team of licensed technicians not only installs and services HVAC equipment but also customizes solutions that address the unique heating and cooling needs of every room. By partnering with Redeemed HVAC & Plumbing, homeowners gain access to expertise in ductwork, thermostats, and system optimization that ensures consistent comfort throughout the home.

Zoning Systems for Residential Comfort

Zoning systems divide a home into distinct areas or “zones,” each controlled independently. Unlike traditional HVAC systems that treat a house as a single space, zoning systems use multiple thermostats and motorized dampers within the ductwork. This allows temperature adjustments for each zone, ensuring personalized comfort. For instance, bedrooms can be cooler at night, while living areas remain warm. Properly installed zoning systems prevent overworking the HVAC unit, improve efficiency, and reduce wear and tear.

Additionally, zoning systems help homeowners manage seasonal temperature differences more effectively, reducing the need for constant thermostat adjustments. They can also address common hot or cold spots in older homes where insulation or design causes uneven heating or cooling. Finally, by giving precise control over each area, zoning systems create a more comfortable environment that adapts to different family routines and lifestyle needs.

Benefits of Working with a Springfield MO HVAC Contractor

Collaborating with a Springfield MO HVAC contractor like Redeemed HVAC & Plumbing brings specialized knowledge to your home. Our technicians evaluate the layout, insulation, and airflow patterns to design a zoning plan that maximizes efficiency. Beyond installation, they provide maintenance, troubleshooting, and upgrades, ensuring that each zone maintains optimal temperature control year-round. Homeowners benefit from reduced energy bills, longer equipment lifespan, and enhanced indoor air quality.

Additional benefits include:

• Customized Comfort Plans – Contractors can design a zoning system tailored to your family’s daily schedule and lifestyle preferences.
  
• Expert Equipment Selection – They recommend the most suitable thermostats, dampers, and HVAC components for your home’s size and structure.
  
• Improved System Longevity – Proper installation and professional maintenance prevent strain on HVAC units, reducing breakdowns.
  
• Energy Monitoring and Optimization – Contractors provide guidance on tracking energy usage and adjusting zones for maximum efficiency.
  
• Professional Troubleshooting – Any airflow issues, uneven temperatures, or control malfunctions are quickly diagnosed and resolved.
  
• Safety and Code Compliance – Licensed contractors ensure all modifications meet local building codes and safety standards.

Integrating Zoning Systems with Existing HVAC Equipment

Many homes can adopt zoning systems without a full HVAC replacement. Redeemed HVAC & Plumbing assesses current systems to determine compatibility, identifying whether modifications to ductwork, thermostats, or controls are necessary. Integration allows homeowners to retain their existing furnace or air conditioner while upgrading to more precise control. This approach minimizes upfront costs while still delivering significant comfort improvements.

Technicians carefully examine existing duct layouts to ensure proper airflow reaches each zone, making adjustments where needed to prevent hotspots or cold areas. They also evaluate thermostat and sensor placement to guarantee accurate temperature readings throughout the home.

 Zoning systems can often be added to older HVAC units, extending our functionality and providing a flexible upgrade path that homeowners can expand over time. By targeting only the zones in use, the existing system experiences less strain, which improves energy efficiency and lowers utility costs. With professional integration, homeowners enjoy a seamless experience, controlling multiple zones from a single, easy-to-use interface.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

A primary advantage of zoning systems is energy efficiency. By heating or cooling only the areas in use, homeowners reduce unnecessary energy consumption. For example, rooms that remain unoccupied for most of the day can have reduced airflow, leading to lower utility bills. Springfield, MO HVAC contractors understand local energy patterns and can recommend zoning schedules that align with daily routines. Over time, these adjustments translate into noticeable savings without compromising comfort.

Smart Controls and Modern Technology

Modern zoning systems often feature smart thermostats and mobile app controls, allowing users to adjust temperatures remotely. Redeemed HVAC & Plumbing ensures that these systems are configured for seamless operation. Homeowners can create schedules, monitor energy usage, and receive alerts for system maintenance. Advanced sensors also detect humidity levels and occupancy, further optimizing comfort and efficiency.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Installing a zoning system can present challenges, including uneven duct layouts or limited space for dampers. Springfield, MO, HVAC contractors bring experience in overcoming these obstacles through customized designs and innovative solutions. Redeemed HVAC & Plumbing addresses common issues such as inconsistent airflow, thermostat placement, and system compatibility. Our proactive approach ensures that each zone functions as intended, providing reliable comfort without frequent adjustments.

Enhancing Indoor Air Quality

Zoning systems contribute to improved indoor air quality by allowing precise airflow management. By controlling ventilation in each zone, homeowners can reduce allergens, moisture buildup, and stagnant air pockets. Redeemed HVAC & Plumbing also integrates duct cleaning and air filtration services, ensuring that air distribution is not only comfortable but also clean and healthy. This dual focus on temperature and air quality elevates the overall living environment.

Maintenance and Longevity

Regular maintenance is essential to keep zoning systems performing efficiently. Springfield, MO HVAC contractors provide inspection, cleaning, and calibration services to prevent malfunctions and prolong system life. Redeemed HVAC & Plumbing emphasizes preventative care, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs and extending equipment lifespan. Homeowners gain peace of mind knowing our investment continues to deliver reliable comfort for years.

Partnering with Redeemed HVAC & Plumbing for Custom Comfort

A zoning system offers a transformative solution for homeowners struggling with uneven temperatures and high energy costs. By customizing each zone, leveraging smart technology, and maintaining optimal airflow, residents can enjoy consistent comfort throughout our home. 

Redeemed HVAC & Plumbing combines local expertise, licensed professionals, and advanced HVAC solutions to deliver results that go beyond basic heating and cooling. For Springfield, MO residents seeking personalized comfort, energy efficiency, and improved indoor air quality, partnering with Redeemed HVAC & Plumbing ensures every room in the home feels just right.

The post Using Zoning Systems with a Springfield MO HVAC Contractor for Custom Comfort appeared first on Social Lifestyle Magazine.

BEIJING, June 5 — China today tightened oversight of the country’s ‌23 trillion yuan (RM13.7 trillion) private fund industry, in a bid to reduce financial risks and channel money into technology innovation ‌and emerging industries.

China’s securities regulator said it would raise the bar for private fund registration, crack down on illegal fund activities and encourage long-term “patient” capital to support tech-focused venture capital investments.

“Strengthening oversight of private funds will help remove bad actors, create a sound environment for the industry ...and protect investors,” the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) said in a statement.

The announcement came two weeks after ‌China launched a major crackdown on cross-border investment and ⁠tightened capital controls. It’s also ⁠part of Beijing’s broader campaign to ⁠direct resources into the tech ⁠sector, which ⁠is key in the Sino-US power rivalry.

The latest move represents a deepening of clean-up efforts that started in ⁠2023 that saw the de-registration of more than 5,000 private fund managers. Chinese private funds can invest in securities or make private equity investments.

“The industry is big, but not strong. Funding structure is imbalanced. And some ⁠funds have even become the tools for criminals,” the CSRC said.

According to the latest rules, regulators ⁠will set up a cross-agency monitoring platform to identify risks and misbehaviours. ⁠The ⁠watchdog will also step up monitoring of operation by government-backed funds.

The CSRC said it will clamp down hard on ‌illegal activities including illegitimate cross-border flows, illicit fundraising and misappropriation of money. — Reuters

Pest management is most effective when the man-made cycles of the pests are observed in relation to their annual changes. Through such seasonal patterns, homeowners will be able to combine preemptive seasonal pest control tips with residential pest control services to avoid infestation before it becomes a great issue.

Early intervention lowers the population of pests in the area, and they curb the environment as well as the necessity of more potent chemicals in the future. Here is a year-round guide to minimizing insect, rodent, and other pests around the home.

Spring Pest Control

The growth of infestations is best stopped in early spring. People living at home are supposed to inspect their homes in order to find possible entry points and breeding sites. Stagnant water, cracks in the foundations, and standing water are all attractive to pests.

This is done by common pest control activities such as:

• Sealing cracks around doors, windows, and foundations.
• Essentially, removing accumulated water in the gutters or containers.
• Clipping of the plants around the home.
• Outdoor application of insecticides to prevent the disease.

Termite inspections are also important, as part of spring pest prevention, since termite galleries increase when it is warmer. Early identification of activity will prevent severe damage to buildings.

Summer Pest Control

The most active season of pests is summer, as the heeat and the greater amounts of moisture encourage rapid reproduction of insects.  Helpful strategies include:

• The lawn should be trimmed frequently in order to clear hiding places.
• Repel them with insecticides or repulsive smears of mosquitoes in the areas.
• Store trash containers in a closed manner.
• Clean outdoor places to dine so as to get rid of food remains.

It is also imperative to control the mosquitoes since stagnant water may develop into a breeding habitat very quickly.

Fall Pest Control

In the lowering of the fall, the pests begin to seek warm places. Rodents and insects usually attempt to get into houses and structures.

Common fall pests include:

• Mice or rats
• Spiders
• Stink bugs
• Cockroaches

The fall is a vital season for preventive control of pests. When pests are in a house, they may stay there throughout the winter.

Control activities of critical falls involve:

• Checking and closing door and window perimeters.
• Regluing broken windows or flues.
• Keeping firewood outside the house.
• Removal of litter and debris in the area of the foundation.

Rodent control is of particular concern during this season, when mice have the ability of squeezing into a very small hole.

Winter Pest Control

Even though enterable insects hibernate during winter, the control of pests is essential in the cold seasons. Some pests remain active in the house because temperatures are usually higher, and rodents usually head to houses.

It is the responsibility of the homeowners to ensure that they maintain their houses clean during winter. Keep food in closed containers, vacuum regularly, and examine exotic corners used infrequently, like attics and crawl spaces.

Choosing the Right Pest Control Methods

The choice of the seasonal pest control tips relies on the type of pests, the degree of their infestation, and the place of their treatment. Here are some of the popular strategies:

• Prevention measures to prevent the infestations in advance.
• Biological systems, which characterize the use of natural predators or other environmentally friendly solutions.
• Selective pest treatment with chemicals.
• Bodily obstacles, including traps, screens, and closed entry points.

Some companies like CitiTurf are known to come up with tailor-made pest management structures that are made to deal with the domestic pest action all through the year.

Tips for Year-Round Pest Prevention

46% of homeowners have experienced structural damage due to pests. The risk of infestations may be reduced significantly by simple maintenance measures and by following pest control tips.

The following are some tips to be considered in year-long pest prevention:

• Take out waste on a regular basis and use the correct bins for trash, recycling, and compost.
• Seal up the leaks that form dampness.
• Inspect the house on a regular basis to detect pests.

The care of the outside is taken with the same consideration as the house. Uncontrolled vegetation, dirty storage, and unnecessary moisture accumulation are some of the attractions of pests.

Your home is safe and comfortable courtesy of adequate seasonal pest management. Spring pest prevention is possible by addressing repairs, and rodents are better kept out in the fall and winter through routine maintenance and cleaning.

Being aware of the active period of pests makes homeowners respond in time before an infestation takes place.

About the Author

This sponsored article was written by Laura Phoenix, a British freelance writer with specialisations in countryside living, health, travel, and wellbeing. She writes content for blogs and social media and has been doing so for over 10 years, with a collective online following of over 40,000 viewers.

The post Guest Idea: When to Act and What to Use for Seasonal Pest Control appeared first on Earth911.

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