It’s always asparagus season in this household

This week “Home and Away” host Cathy Hamilton, right, visits asparagus grower Karen Pendleton, who has an extensive collection of decorative household items with an asparagus motif. From switchplates to canister sets and cabinet knobs, green reigns supreme.

A new show airs at 6:30 p.m. each Monday on Sunflower Broadband Channel 6 and repeats at 9 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. The show is also broadcast at 9 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 9 a.m. Sunday.

Get to know valve locations

When a pipe breaks and water’s spraying all over your basement, it’s a little late to be wondering how to shut off the water.

That’s why it’s a good idea to locate and mark all the shut-off valves in your house before trouble arises.

First find the main shut-off valve. It’s usually in the basement on the pipe coming through the wall on the street side, near the water meter. Closing this valve will shut off water to the whole house.

If you do close this valve, be aware that if you have a gas hot water tank, you must turn it to its lowest, or “vacation,” setting. An electric tank should be shut off at the electrical panel. If you have a hot water heating system, make sure the furnace has enough water so it doesn’t boil itself dry.

In addition to the main shut-off valve, note the locations of valves for all sinks, toilets and tubs or showers. They’re usually located below the fixtures.