ECO-FRIENDLY STUDENTS

College students can go green without hassling over it by following these simple steps:

• Get unplugged: Unplug every electronic item that is not in use (cell phone charger, iPod, laptop, etc.).

• Pedal to the metal: Bike instead of taking mass transit or your car to classes or that football game.

• Text message: Instead of buying new text books, choose used copies.

• Double up: Make double-sided photo copies and use "tossed" copies for scratch paper.

CALLING ALL DO-IT- YOUR- SELFERS

Need to tile that bathroom? Update that kitchen? DIY Network's Sweat Equity is looking for homeowners in the Denver area who are planning to renovate a single room in their home or landscape their yard. A licensed contractor and host will guide you through the project. While you'll need a budget and some experience, the perks include possible discounts on materials and a chance to star in a half-hour episode. E-mail SweatEquity@highnoon entertainment.com

GO!

• What: Parade of Homes

• When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday through Thursday, till 9 p.m. Friday, through Sept. 3

• Where: Southshore: Exit E-470 at Smoky Hill Road and go east for 2 miles. Make a left onto Arapahoe Road. Follow the signs.

• Cost: Adults: weekends, $12; weekdays, $10. Seniors 65 and older: $8. Children: $8; free for 5 and under. Tickets available at the door and at King Soopers.

• Information: ParadeOfHomesDenver.com

Julie Edelman, author of "The Accidental Housewife: How to Overcome Housekeeping Hysteria One Task at a Time" (Ballantine Books, June 2006)