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A quick summary of the responses to my query as to where to let bread
rise:
 
-Gas ovens work great without having to turn them on because the
pilot light heats the oven enough.
 
-If using an electric range, turn the oven OFF before putting the
bread in.  Lots of suggestions about adding humidity (bowl of water
in oven during rising or bowl of boiling water in oven BEFORE putting
in the bowl).  Along the same lines, the microwave can be used (remove
the boiling water from the microwave, put in the bread, close door).
 
-The top of the fridge is a good place because of the heat from the
coils.
 
-Use a bare light bulb (on a socket on extension cord) in oven.
 
-Top of the stove with oven on (oven vents through one burner).
 
-Use the breadmaker on dough only cycle.
 
-Cover bowl with damp tea towel to increase the humidity.
 
Thanks for all your gracious help!
 
Jean