King George 2014 Home & Craft show

King George Home & Craft Show

Find your friends and neighbors here

March 1 & 2, 2014 • King George High School • 25th Year A Special Supplement To The Journal

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King George Builders Association 2014 Member Directory

For More Information Call Ella Rose Hubbard, President (540) 379-3056

4, March 2014

25th annual home & craft show

King George Home and Craft Show has come a long way Richard Leggitt The King George Builders Association will host its 25th Annual Home and Craft Show on March 1st and 2nd. The first home show was in 1989 at the old King George Firehouse on Route 3, the brainchild of Tommy Burrell, the KGBA president at the time, and Ruth Herrink, a community leader and publisher of The Journal.

Sadly, Ruth Herrink passed away last October. This will be the first home show without her dynamic presence and that has Tommy Burrell reflecting on the show's growth and its success.

"It has really become a community event that has just kept getting bigger over the years," Burrell said.

"And, Ruth deserves a lot of the credit for that."

"She was a hustler, and she kept me hustling as well," Burrell said. "She kept after people to get involved, and that is why it has grown so big."

"We started at the old firehouse with 12 exhibitors and now we are at 100 something. I don't know how many people showed up for the first one. But I know I sold a house," said Burrell, who owns Thomas M. Burrell, Inc. and has been building homes in King George for 35 years.

When he and Herrink began the home shows, the old firehouse was plenty of space for the event.

But over the years, the growth and success of the show have caused it to move four times. In recent years it has been at King George High School and has drawn a crowd of more than 3,500 persons.

"And it is a great opportunity for people who have been cooped up during the cold weather to come out and participate in a community event."

—Tommy Burrell lenders and other contractors.

KGBA currently has more than 200 members and volunteers, many of whom are closely involved with the home show.

"I am a lifer," said Burrell, who was born and raised in King George County. "It is good to see what we have built and how the Ruth Herrink and David Deputy rest a minute between visitors to David's booth at the 2013 Home Show.

"It is a chance for local groups and organizations to work together," Burrell said. "And it is a great opportunity for people who have been cooped up during the cold weather to come out and participate in a community event."

The KGBA, host of the Home and Craft Show, was founded in 1988 by Burrell and five other

B

builders. Under the KGBA's leadership, and with the support of community leaders like Herrink, the home show has grown into one of the biggest annual events in the county.

And, the KGBA which was founded by six builders, has grown to include more than 50 different businesses including Realtors,

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community has become involved."

Note: In 2007, Ruth hired Lori Deem to assist Steve Detwiler with the paperwork associated with the Home Show. Now, Lori is the Show “go to person” as she coordinates registration, publicity, and logistics with Tommy and other volunteers each year.

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March, 2014, 5

King George County is well positioned to take advantage of healthy sustained growth Over the last 5 years I have had the pleasure of representing all of Planning District 16 for the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance as the Director of Marketing and Global Business Development for economic development. Coming to King George County less than 6 months ago I have a great working knowledge of how the region and the County are positioned long term to take advantage of corpo-

rations and companies looking to grow and expand. I also continue to work diligently to support the needs of existing industries in the region and King George County providing support and assistance for them to grow and thrive.

King George County is well positioned to take advantage of healthy sustained growth as we come out of what is one of the worst recessions since the Great

U P PROD CER, 2013 O T

Depression. Workforce is one of the most critical things companies look for today when finding a destination to grow and expand.

King George County has one of the highest concentrations of scientists, Ph.D.’s , and engineers in the Commonwealth of Virginia which will make it very attractive to technology firms, and new defense contractors wishing to work closely with the Naval Base. That coupled with the Dahlgren Campus for Education and Research focusing on S.T.E.M. education make King George a long term destination for a potential research and technology park.

An additional resource the County has is our Industrial Park.

King George has one of the only viable rail spurs in the region which make it attractive to companies who are in need of this critical in-

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frastructure. The Board continues to work to bring natural gas and fiber with high speed internet to the park which will make it even more competitive. The park is seeing a significant amount of interest from prospective corporations both nationally and internationally. Currently, the cost of power in Europe is extremely expensive which has renewed some manufacturing interest in the States and King George County.

Overall, King George is well positioned strategically taking advantage of being within 60 miles of two Metropolitan Statistical Areas in Richmond and Washington, D.C. Logistically speaking it is also centrally located on the eastern seaboard as companies will continue to show significant interest being directly in between two major shipping corridors. Route

I-95 and 301 also provide major transportation lanes up and down the east coast which is critical to many companies operations on this side of the United States. With all this being said King George remains one of the best places to live with a quality of life that rivals most places in the Country. The County prides itself on maintaining its natural resources and outdoor activities that including, hiking, biking, a plethora of historical resources, the beautiful Potomac River, and Caledon State Park to name a few. If you are interested in more information about King George County please feel free to email me at lthomas@ co.kinggeorge.state.va.us.

—Linwood Thomas, Director Economic Development King George, Virginia

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6, March 2014

25th annual home & craft show

Kim and Dave Weston Have Built a Business and a Family in KG richard leggitt Weston Homes, Inc., one of King George's premier builders, is a family owned business that was created by Kim and Dave Weston in 1990 when Dave was still serving in the Army.

In 24 years of building new homes from Spotsylvania County to Lancaster County, they have made their topnotch reputation by sticking to one simple principle: "We are a fully custom builder and we do whatever the customer wants," said Dave Weston.

Dave grew up in Montross in Westmoreland County and Kim was raised in Alexandria in Northern Virginia, but spent time in the summers in Colonial Beach. Together they have built hundreds of quality homes for Virginians since Dave retired from the service in the early 1990s.

"We have a 50/50 partnership," said Dave. "I do sales and construction. Kim oversees the details of design and decor, the accounting and so much more."

"The homes we build are constructed using only quality products and materials—hardwood floors, granite countertops, wholehouse automation, stainless steel appliances, skylights, luxurious whirlpool baths, exquisitelydetailed trim and finishes," said Dave. "The options are endless."

"We focus on individual tastes," Dave said. "Our team offers a wealth of knowledge and meticulous attention-to-detail and exceptional craftsmanship is applied to each element of a new home."

"We have a proven track record of satisfied homeowners. "Dave said. "And, with a demonstrated reputation for quality and performance, we take pride in being

competitive without sacrificing quality or workmanship."

While building a flourishing, successful business, Dave and Kim have also built a family. They have four children, two sons and two daughters.

"They are grown and gone," said Dave.

The Westons have had a booth at the King George Home and Craft Show since the late 1990s. And they will have a Weston Homes, Inc. booth again this year. But Kim and Dave will not be there because their son-in-law, who is an Army officer, is returning from duty in Afghanistan and they will join their daughter in welcoming him home.

"Our son, who is a police officer, and our daughter-in-law will be representing us at the home show," Dave said. "We get customers from there and also from word of mouth, the Internet and agents

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Dave and Kim Weston have been regulars at the Home & Craft Show.

Here they talk to visitors at the 2008 show. that we have worked with in the community."

"This area offers residents endless beauty and superb quality of life.

We hope customers will experience this one-of-a-kind lifestyle by becoming the next proud owner of one of our splendid homes."

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March, 2014, 7

The State of Real Estate A basic concept of real estate which is often misunderstood is that market conditions are specific to a location.

Current values, trending direction of values and current activity is geographically specific whether regional, local and even micro (such as in a specific neighborhood).

Given the plethora of information available on the internet today, I often find consumers armed with information about the real estate market conditions...that don’t relate to our local market.

Articles declaring recovery and booming markets, or statistics for a broad region, or even the entire U.S. may be correct, but it can be a very misleading representation of what is going on locally. My point?

If you really want to know what is going on in your real estate market, you must discount much of the noise about national, regional and even state conditions.

Why? It’s likely a satellite view of what’s happening on average in

a broader region.

Real estate values are driven and determined by local market conditions, as much as by regional, national and global influences.

The recovery we read about happening in a metropolitan area does not necessarily reflect the conditions in rural areas only an hour’s drive out. Many factors contribute to values, but supply and demand are key.

So, what’s the status of our market? Well, that depends. Even our local market has a variety of conditions depending upon whether we are talking about residential, land, commercial, sales or leases.

The internet hosts an abundance of information, and can be an excellent resource. However, the internet is not a sentient thinking being (not yet anyway!) and cannot address your specific situation and needs in an intelligent, thoughtful way.

For example, if you were to ask me about how many residential properties are under contract today in King George (as of the

Richard Snow at the 2013 Home & Cradft Show. date of this writing) my research indicates a total of 41 homes, 9 of which are foreclosures, 9 short sales and 22 standard sales.

Yes, I retrieved this information from the internet, but there is far more to the picture than just the data. That data needs interpretation before it is useful and clearly understood; not everything fits

into an equation or algorithm.

The best way to learn about your real estate market is to contact a qualified local real estate professional.

Your local Realtors have the knowledge, experience and tools necessary to help you gather the information you need to plan your course of action and make

intelligent decisions.

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8, March 2014

25th annual home & craft show

Special waste disposal dates set in King George Household hazardous waste, shredding dates set for 2014

drop off center on Henry Griffin Road near Purkins Corner.

Phyllis Cook King George ‘Household Hazardous Waste Days’ have been scheduled for the coming year with three dates scheduled in 2014 to take place at the county’s main landfill site, along with a ‘shredding day’ for disposal of sensitive papers documents.

These events are designed strictly for households in King George. County businesses and other commercial entities are not permitted to participate.

Residents should have their yellow permanent county sticker affixed to their vehicle or ready to display to landfill staff, as at all other times when trash is dropped off at either the main landfill or at the county’s trash convenience

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DAYS: The three household hazardous waste days will all take place on Saturdays, on April 5, Aug. 9, and Dec. 13, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

On those dates, household hazardous waste, including paints and solvents, computer equipment, televisions and telephones, batteries and light bulbs, will be accepted at the residents’ disposal site at the King George County Landfill, 10376 Bullock Drive, (off Route 665, north of Route 3).

More examples of household hazardous waste are listed further below.

SHREDDING DAY: King George residents should mark their calendars for Saturday, June 21, for the annual date provided by the county to safely dispose of sensitive documents for shedding. The free shredding event will take place at the Courthouse

parking lot between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.

The annual event is hosted by Waste Management in conjunction with King George County.

Shredding of your documents takes place onsite at the time you bring your sensitive papers. Its purpose is to provide King George residents a safe way to dispose of their sensitive documents including old bank statements, out-of-date tax returns or other unneeded legal and other paper work containing private information such as credit card numbers and/ or social security numbers.

Those can include unsolicited credit card applications and other such offers that arrive in unwanted mail.

The idea is to assist residents in safe disposal of sensitive paper documents to avoid identity theft by unscrupulous persons.

The shredding event is NOT for recycling paper, but to safely destroy sensitive documents to ensure personal information is not compromised.

At the June 21 event, a shredding truck will be parked with an attendant in the parking lot behind the King George Courthouse, which is located on Route 3 (Kings Hwy). The parking lot is in front of the Revercomb Administration building.

The annual event also provides an opportunity for dropping off nonperishable grocery and personal care items to go to the King George Food Bank, operated by the Social Services Department.

WHAT’S HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE? Household hazardous waste includes old, used or leftover products that should not be discarded as regular waste into the landfill, including liquids that should not be poured down the sink or flushed in the toilet.

The numerous items classified as "household hazardous waste" include common items such as all types of batteries, household cleaners, paint, turpentine, paint stripper, rust remover, paint

thinner, varnish, automotive fluids, pesticides and other stuff that requires special disposal.

Acceptable items also include fluorescent light bulbs and other light tubes, old motor oil and used motor oil, antifreeze, swimming pool chemicals and other chemicals, aerosol cans, kerosene, insecticides, fertilizers and leftover household cleaning chemicals and other solvents.

Other items are mercury thermometers, photographic chemicals, lighter fluid, shoe polish, fiberglass epoxy, moth balls and glue.

Leftover toiletry items should also be included, such as alcoholbased lotions, nail polish and nail polish remover, hair relaxers, dyes and permanents, along with aerosol cans from hairsprays and such.

Household hazardous waste disposal days are also a good time to also get rid of unwanted computers, computer parts, drives other e-waste generated from your own home. E-waste can also include

What your King George Landfill does for you!

• Sign-up for our Pick-for-Pay Program - 1st week of March • Shredder Day at the KG Courthouse • June 21

Bring your old bank statements, out-of-date tax returns, documents with your credit card numbers of Soc. Security number

• Hazardous Waste Disposal Days - three times a year at the Main Landfill site • April 5, Aug. 8 & Dec. 13

• Single Stream Recycling - no more separating and sorting recyclable items You can recycle cardboard and metal cans along with newspapers, plastic, glass and aluminum Recycling extends the life of the landfill which means fees to King George County which means more dollars for County capital improvements!

• Convenient Drop-off Locations at the new Convenience Center on Henry Griffin Rd. (Rt. 704) off Ridge Road and at the Main Landfill site on Bullock Rd. (Rt. 655)

• Landfill Gas-to-Energy Power Plant converting methane gas to electricity and generating revenue for King George County The power plant converts landfill gas to revenue for King George.

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Landfill hours: Mon. - Sat. 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. • Sun. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Closed: New Years Day, Easter, Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Thanksgiving , and Christmas Day

Waste Management operates the King George Landfill, which is owned by King George County.

25 annual home & craft show th

any entertainment electronics, mobile phones, obsolete and/or non-working computer monitors, televisions, fax machines, copiers, telephones, cabling, servers, broken or obsolete smoke detectors and more from around your house and home office.

SINGLE STREAM RECYCLING: For regular trash disposal, King George residents have the opportunity to help prolong the life of the landfill any time they drop off trash by dividing their trash into two categories, garbage and recyclables.

The more trash that is recycled, the less goes into the landfill.

The main positive result is the potential for extending the life use of the landfill. The county landfill is currently estimated to have about 18 years of trash airspace left.

Recycling can be done each time county residents take their trash to either center for disposal. The landfill and convenience center are operated by Waste Management as the contractor for King George.

Sorting and segregating glass

from paper and from plastic or metal is not necessary. Singlestream means all recyclables, including all paper, plastic, glass, cardboard, newspaper, magazines, aluminum and other metal cans all go into one container at the residents’ disposal area at the landfill convenience centers.

Simply combine all milk cartons, vegetable containers, and junk mail together with plastic or glass soda or other drink bottles or aluminum cans, along with jars, with any kind of paper and plastic, including plastic bags, together into a plastic or paper bag to drop into the recycling bin at the landfill.

Residents should segregate remaining trash items, including plate scrapings, vegetable peelings and other organic garbage, along with styrofoam, to go into the regular trash bins or compactors for disposal at either site.

Those with large items such as old sofas, old rolled up carpeting and appliances are requested to take those items to the main landfill site for disposal.

Direct: (540) 842-3260 Office: (540) 775-6555

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Recycling is made easy at the convenience center on Henry Griffin Road at Purkins Corner. Just pull in to the large paved area; on one side is the recycling area, on the other are the dumpsters for trash. No muss, no fuss and no yellowjackets!

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10, March 2014

25th annual home & craft show

Despite problems, wireless broadband for all in KG remains goal richard leggitt When King George County officials finalized a public-private contract with Virginia Broadband LLC to offer broadband wireless Internet access to residents of the county six years ago there was excitement across the board.

Today, unfortunately, that enthusiasm has been replaced with lawsuits, anger, frustration and in the case of some residents, a resolute determination to find a better way to offer broadband wireless services to those throughout King George who cannot now connect to the Internet.

In King George at present there remains a very distinct digital divide between the "haves" — residents who live in populated areas and can stream Netflix or get on Facebook or play games; and the " have-nots" — rural residents who cannot get connected and feel they are being left behind.

Officials at Virginia's Center for Innovative Technology believe that without reliable, high-speed internet access, rural residents are at a disadvantage as more and more services like education, employment and health care move online.

State officials make the point that

areas that don't have high-speed Internet access are also frequently home to the populations that need it most — people with less education, few transportation options, those with lower incomes and the elderly.

This is not the way it was supposed to be. When the King George Board of Supervisors agreed to allow Virginia Broadband to install its equipment on water tanks, towers and other county infrastructure in 2008, many thought the broadband problem was solved.

The King George Board of Supervisors approved $52,000 in county funds to cover legal and technical advising costs. And the county agreed to facilitate up to $740,000 in loans for Virginia Broadband to help with startup costs.

"Then everything went way south," said Dale Robertson, an engineer who hopes to be part of a new solution. The Virginia Broadband project crumbled into a mess of lawsuits, bitterness and lost money. "It was a failure," said Ed Veazey, a retired Navy Captain who joins Robertson in believing there is a better way.

Robertson has joined forces with King George residents Barbara

Wagner and Rusty Huyck who in November formed KG Connect in a meeting at the Smoot Library.

"We are exploring what can be done," Robertson said. "We are not limiting our choices."

The group, which has no formal membership, is composed of a dozen or so professionals, including some telecommunications experts, who meet monthly and are determined to help county officials find a new answer to the broadband problem.

"It is a very difficult problem," said Robertson. "MetroCast, Verizon and other companies are not serving rural, low density population areas because it is not cost effective. It's impractical."

Veazey owns two old water towers in the county that he believes might be the answer. "One is just off 301, close to the center of population for the county. The other is off of 218 between Fairview Beach and Caledon."

Veazey has talked with Northern Neck WiFi in Kilmarnock about a proposal to send a broadband signal to one of his towers.

"From there we could broadcast a broadband signal thought the county, just like radio."

While Robertson and KG Connect are exploring options

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One of Ed Veazey's water towers - this one is on US 301 at Washington Mill Road. and Veazey is waiting to hear back from Northern Neck WiFi, at least one resident has apparently taken the matter in her own hands.

"Citizens have taken it upon themselves to try to do something," said Veazey.

"There is a lady in Eagle Bay who needs broadband for her work.

She found a retired Army Signal Corps guy who helped her set up a broadband signal that beams from

a marina in Stafford County, seven miles down the river, to my tower near Fairview Beach and from there into her home."

"That proves the concept of using the towers works," Veazey said. "The problem now is getting a company with the wherewithal, the technology and the experience to invest in an effort to get a broadband signal to the whole county."

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March, 2014, 11

Relay For Life in King George Every year since 2002 King George has welcomed the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life event. Thousands of our citizens and our business community have worked hard to make this event successful. At our 10th anniversary,

this county had raised $ 1,193, 056 to help in the fight against cancer !

WOW ! Let’s keep the momentum going.

This year’s event will be May 17 from 12 noon to 12 midnight at the Middle School track. Team up with

your family, friends, co-workers, church members to help us make this year another successful one .

Meet your neighbors, have fun and raise money to fight cancer.

How? For more information, call Ursula Oesterwinter at 6632555 or ursula@crosslink.net See you at the Relay !! There is no finish line until we find a cure.

>>

Journal Publisher Ruth Herrink (r) and Carol Sparbel at the 2007 Relay for Life. Herrink survived a brush with cancer in 2000.

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12, March 2014

25th annual home & craft show

KG YMCA Casino Night March 8 – So much more than a fun night Casino Night at the Y is on March 8th from 5 pm-10 pm and is so much more than a fun night, it’s a cause. Our event, just like many others that we have, focus on raising proceeds that go into our “Open Doors” Program. Our Open Doors program is all about the Y welcoming anyone, whether it is an individual or family regardless of their financial income. The Y makes an impact on everyday lives and the community. We have the power to make change by bringing people together, nurturing potential, and being community-centered. Our cause means so much more when we can incorporate our three focus areas – Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility.

The Y and our Open Doors Program does just that.

To give you more insight into the difference that we can make possible, we have a story to share with you. This story is one of many that we have. It is about a girl named Samantha Tubbs and her start with the Y and our Open Doors Program, her journey of swimming and how she got to where she is now.

Samantha Tubbs had never thought about swimming competitively until her best friend asked her to join the King George YMCA summer swim team. Samantha was a bit nervous because she born with an undeveloped arm below the elbow with no hand. But the 14 year old did everything else typical girls her age do – read, play video games and make friendship bracelets. So Samantha gave it a try and not only did she swim, she swam very well!

Her talent caught the attention of the other coaches who encouraged her parents to get her lessons and a swim coach. Her dad, Ray, who has homeschooled Samantha since kindergarten, wanted to support her talent but money and facilities were limited. “Since there were no other indoor swim facilities in King George, we needed to join the Y.” When Ray met with Elizabeth Clark, the Executive Director of the King George Y, Elizabeth made sure the family got a membership they could afford and introduced them to Linda Davis and Ken Novell who are long time Y aquatic supporters who found Samantha a swim coach. After months of

swimming every day and working with a swim coach, Samantha beat out the 3 time Para winner in her swim group in her first Para swim meet! Samantha is now training for the National Para swim meet in Miami to qualify for the Olympic Para Team. “The Y is our second family, without it we could not afford to support her dream and her talent would have been wasted,” Ray Tubbs. Samantha is looking forward to the summer to swim again for the Y summer swim team with her friends. Until then she will be working on her favorite stroke, (breaststroke) and helping teach 2nd graders to swim in the Y outreach program. With encouragement of the Y lifeguards, Samantha’s younger sister is learning to swim and her Mom is enjoying the Zumba classes. “We are amazed at all the activities and services the Y provides,” Tubbs family.

As you have read above, the Y is more than just a facility, more than a gym, we are a cause. We have events, like Casino Night, to help put our proceeds back into our community and our members.

We will do everything we can to

get anyone a membership. We will continue to make an impact in our community. We will continue to give back to YOU. The Y is FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT, FOR HEALTHY LIVING, and FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY. The Y. So Much More.

Support your community by supporting our cause. Buy your tickets for Casino Night now at the King George Family YMCA – Call 540-775-YMCA (9622) to purchase tickets or stop by the Y!

BE A PART OF THE COMMUNITY BE A CASINO NIGHT SPONSOR LEVELS OF SPONSORSHIP:  Title Sponsorship - $2,000.00  Company logo will be included with all media and promotional events  Company logo on the prize table  Included in the B 101.5 remote marketing program  10 complimentary tickets  Table Sponsor - $500.00  Logo on one of the roulette, craps, or poker tables  4 complimentary tickets  Table Sponsor - $250.00  Logo on a black jack table

Contact Elizabeth Clark for more information at: 540-775-9622 or eclark@family-ymca.org

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March, 2014, 13

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14, March 2014

25th annual home & craft show

Go to a community bank for your home mortgage Times have certainly changed since the early days of community banking. Looking back in banking history a well-known person of good character could walk into a bank and obtain a loan that same day. Sadly in 2014 that is not the case.

The complexities of a home mortgage have grown many times over leaving many consumers left shaking their heads in confusion.

Community banks have worked very hard to keep up with over reaching governmental regulations to offer a large assortment of home mortgages.

While the many new government regulations can be daunting, community banks continue to make it as quick and simple as possible for the consumer. Let’s take a look at some of the mortgages that your small community banks can still offer.

makes FHA loans popular with first-time buyers.

• USDA Mortgage: USDA Home Loans provide up to 100% financing for a home purchase or refinance. These loans are guaranteed by the USDA and are serviced by direct lenders that meet federal guidelines. There are many qualifying factors for a USDA home loan, things such as income limits and loan amount may limit eligibility.

• HARP Mortgage: Is a federal program of the Federal Housing Finance Agency in March 2009, to help underwater and near-underwater homeowners refinance their mortgages.

• Traditional 30 year mortgage: Easiest to understand. Make a down payment, then a fixed rate for 30 years. New government regulations have made this option harder for the average consumer to obtain. Most of these loans are sold to the “secondary market”.

• Balloon Mortgage: A short-term mortgage in which small periodic payments are made until the completion of the term, at which time the balance is due as a single lump-sum payment or which can be refinanced. Many lenders no longer offer this option.

However the small community banks can still offer these products and maybe the answer when a consumer cannot qualify for a conventional 30 year mortgage.

• FHA Mortgage: FHA loans are designed for low to moderate income borrowers who are unable to make a large down payment. FHA loans allow the borrower to borrow up to 97% of the value of the home. The 3% down payment requirement can come from a gift or a grant, which

• Adjustable Rate Mortgage: A type of mortgage that the interest rate will change at a defined time during the life of the mortgage. Changes are usually based on an index. This option can be attractive to a borrower who does not plan on being in a

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home for more than a few years.

• Home Equity Lines of Credit: A line of credit extended to a homeowner that uses the borrower's home as collateral.

Once a maximum loan balance is established, the homeowner may draw on the line of credit at his or her discretion. Interest is charged on a predetermined variable rate, which is usually based on prevailing prime rates. This type of loan has become very popular for home improvements, vacations, sending kids to college, or simply wanting to ensure a home owner has credit when they may need it.

Now, if the recession has damaged your credit or your big

box national lender tells you that you don’t qualify for a “secondary market” loan, don’t despair! Since community banks keep and service most of the home loans that they make and enjoy an “exemption” from some of the worrisome features of the Dodd-Frank Act, we can offer many special loan programs the larger banks cannot.

The bottom-line is getting a home mortgage is not as easy as it used to be. But your local community bank can offer many products and services that your big bank cannot.

—StephanieAnn Burch Peoples Community Bank Branch Manager/Loan Officer King George Branch (540) 775-2914

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March, 2014, 15

New KGALERT system is coming, create a new account now King George County has launched a new KGALERT system.

The new system offers some new features including improved Verizon Wireless text message delivery.

In order to continue to receive alerts after the transition date, planned for March 31, you must go to http://www.kgalert.com/ and create a new account.

The current KGALERT system will be phased out. During the transition period, alerts will be sent out on both systems. The new system was announced within the last month, with more than 3,500 subscribers so far creating new accounts.

ABOUT KING GEORGE ALERT: The County Emergency Notification System provides accurate, immediate emergency notifications from all jurisdictions within King George County to your cell, work or home phone, via text, email or voice message. Receive notifications about emergencies that may affect your home, workplace, child's school, parents' home, or any other locations within King George County.

This service provides subscribers the ability to opt-in to receive

notifications via phone calls, text messaging, e-mail and more based on locations selected.

Notifications include those that may affect home, workplace, families' schools and more, including weather warnings and advisories, information on infrastructure issues including power outages, water shortages, traffic issues, accidents, road closures and alternative routes.

Administrators will also send notifications regarding such things as flooding, gas leaks, police

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KGALERT is managed by the Emergency Management Division of the King George County Department of Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services.

MAKE THE TRANSITION: To continue to receive LGALERT after the transition date, March 31, go to www.kgalert.com/ and create a new account.

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SIGN UP FOR A NEW ACCOUNT TO CONTINUE TO RECEIVE KGALERTS: It’s easy to create an account.

It’s also simple to change the contact information you provide.

When it changes, you can always visit your profile and update your information. The personal information you provide will be used only for the KGAlert system for notification purposes.

It will not be provided or sold to any vendor or other organization.

If you experience problems creating new account on the new system at: http://www.kgalert. com/, there’s help available.

If you are having difficulty you may email: slynd@co.kinggeorge. state.va.us or call (540)7758900. The KGALERT system is coordinated by Steve Lynd, Captain/ Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator for the King George County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services.

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16, March 2014

25th annual home & craft show

Septic system pump-out required in King George every five years King George using phased approach to monitor compliance Phyllis Cook

King George property owners with septic systems are required to have their septic tanks pumped out every five years. It’s not only state and local law, it can save homeowners money by troubleshooting small problems with their systems before they become bigger and more costly.

COMPLIANCE MONITORING King George, through its Department of Community Development, is monitoring compliance with Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act requirements and the regulations promulgated by the Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Board.

The county has been using a phased approach to bring all areas of the county into compliance.

King George County initiated its monitoring program a few years ago under the administration of Zoning Enforcement Officer/ Planner Heather Straughan.

The monitoring program provided initial notification to homeowners with letters informing them of the pump-out requirement and asking for a copy of a receipt for their last pump-out, if it was within the previous five years.

Property owners received letters early in the year informing them of the need for compliance with pump-out requirements. Followup letters were then are sent in the

fall season to those who ignored the first one by not providing evidence of pump-out.

The monitoring program started with notification sent out to property owners with septic systems in the Dahlgren District in 2008, with Shiloh added in 2009, and the Courthouse precinct of the James Madison District added in 2010. Then Passapatanzy precinct of the James Madison District, and then the James Monroe District were be added to the notification and enforcement program.

All owners of septic systems across the county have received notification through the above process. That first phase of compliance monitoring was completed during 2012.

The response rate for compliance with that first round of notifications was relatively high, with 4,735 households and businesses providing evidence of compliance out of 6,260 compliance forms sent by the county.

The compliance monitoring is continuing with reminder notifications sent out to Dahlgren residents this year to inform those septic owners that it’s time for another pump out, and to also catch up with those who didn’t respond the first time.

Failure to comply with this program will result in violation of the King George County’s Zoning ordinance.

The Shiloh district is due this year, with the other districts in the same order as before.

has been pumped out, property owners are asked to fill out a form and return it with a copy of the receipt from the pump and haul contractor or copies of both sides of a cancelled check verifying prior work.

Property owners are also considered to be in compliance if their residence or business property with a septic field has been constructed in the last five years, or if it was recently purchased and evidence can be supplied to show the septic system pump out was part of the purchase settlement.

DON’T WAIT; AVOID SEPTIC SYSTEM PROBLEMS There is no need for property owners to wait until a letter comes from the county to pump-out their septic systems. If it’s been more than five years since the septic tank has been pumped out, it should be done.

To find a licensed septic pump and haul service, simply consult the yellow pages under “Septic.”

Then, keep the receipt available for when that evidence is requested in future years.

Pumping out septic tanks can avoid damaging the septic system.

That means that pumping-out of septic systems can be a costeffective practice to prevent septic

PROTECT & PROLONG THE LIFE OF YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM The Department of Community Development provides a factsheet on septic pump out, which gives tips on protecting and prolonging the life of your septic system.

Here are some of the tips: + Conserve water use within the home or business. This increases the opportunity for wastewater to settle in the holding tank, allowing more time for bacteria to breakdown the solids. + Monitor what goes into the system through drains, toilets, and surface penetration. Things to avoid: Solid wastes such as coffee grounds, grease and fats, kitty litter, sanitary napkins, disposable diapers, cigarette filters, used condoms, or synthetic rubber products; and, also avoid hazardous chemicals such as insecticides, automotive chemicals and oils, photographic solutions, caustic drain openers, varnishes, and paints. + Check for depressions in the drain field to prevent pooling of surface water. Direct all yard and downspout drainage away from or around the drain field. + Do not park vehicles or heavy equipment on or near the drain field as this will compact soils and damage the network of drainpipes. + Avoid planting trees and shrubs with deep roots or waterloving vegetation that may clog and damage drainpipes. Shallowrooted plants such as grass, flowering perennials and annuals are recommended and help prevent erosion of drain field soils. system failure.

Not all material that enters a septic system is entirely decomposed. The resulting buildup, if not removed, is the #1 reason for system failures.

A typical pump-out costs $150$300, while the cost to replace or

repair a damaged system can be upwards of $3,000-$10,000.

Likewise, rehabilitation of a damaged drain field which has failed due to solids infiltration is generally impossible or ineffective.

Where it can be done, it is generally quite expensive.

COMPLIANCE To verify that a septic system

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March, 2014, 17

‘Love Thy Neighbor’ food pantry continues monthly food distribution Along with hot meals on second Sundays of the month at the Citizens Center Phyllis Cook

FOOD PANTRY DROP OFF LOCATIONS: To assist with the food pantry effort, non-perishable groceries and personal care items can be dropped off at numerous locations throughout the county.

Drop off locations: The Journal Press, Two Rivers Baptist Church, Rocky Top Embroidery, A Unique House Antique Mall, Lock-It-Up Storage, King George Citizen's Center, King George Feed Store, Kingdom Cutz, King George YMCA, EXIT Realty Expertise, American Business Card, St. John's Episcopal Church, and Union Market Bank.

CONTACT LOVE THY NEIGHBOR: For questions or more information about the group and its Community Food Pantry & Soup Kitchen program, or to join in and volunteer visit the website, send an email or call them.

The group has a website, www. lovethyneighbor-kg.org, an email address: kglovethyneighbor@ gmail.com, and can be phoned, (540) 940-9846.

The organization was begun by a group of women from various churches throughout the community that started as a weekly home generator Systems prayer group about 28 years ago, which started working behind the scenes to help people. Its passion to help others spawned action to visit those in need and take along meals, groceries, clothing, home generator Systems furniturehome or whatever was needed. generator Systems home generator Systems

“Love Thy Neighbor” recently completed its first year hosting monthly grocery distributions at a central location through its food bank at the Citizens Center on the second Sunday of each month, along with provision of a ‘soup kitchen’ restaurant-style CASH JARS ONLY: meal, preceded by an inspirational Donations can be provided at message and music.

Cash Jars found at The Hitching Love Thy Neighbor is one of Post, King George House of Pizza, a few food banks in the county, and Tims II Fairview Beach. which includes one operated home generator Systems by the county Social Services department.

The group’s mission is, “Helping meet the nutritional, emotional and WITH A HOME GENERATOR SYSTEM spiritual needs of others through the generosity of 'neighbors helping neighbors' throughout BeFOre the POWer gOeS OUt OUt POWer gOeS gOeS King George and surrounding BeFOre the GENERATOR SYSTEM SYSTEM WITHAAHOME HOME GENERATOR GENERATOR communities.” home generator SystemsWITH ™ EmPower Series Gina Panciera, who is in charge home generator Systems of Love Thy Neighbor’s community WITH A HOME GENERATOR SYSTEM food pantry, provided an update ™ ™ Series ™ Series EmPower EmPower Series to the Board of Supervisors at its meeting on Feb. 18.

Permanent installation installation Permanent •••Permanent installation Love They Neighbor had formed EmPower™ Series a partnership with the county to outside your your home home outside outside your home bring in volunteers on a monthly basis to provide a community Continuous fuel fuel supply supply Continuous •••Continuous fuel supply food pantry and a hot restaurant(NG, LP) LP) eliminates eliminates storing storing (NG, TH Astyle HOME SYSTEM meal fromGENERATOR local or regional (NG, LP) eliminates storing restaurants or caterers. and pouring gasoline and pouring gasoline and pouring gasoline WITH A HOME GENERATOR SYSTEM The program began in December 2012 with its first event after ••Fully Fully Fully automatic automatic operation operation ™ ™ ™ IntelliGEN Series IntelliGEN Series IntelliGEN Series• automatic operation ™ Supervisors agreed to waive the ™ IntelliGEN Series EmPower Series whether whether you you are are home home or or away costs of rental, supervision and whether you are home oraway away ™ custodial services for the group.

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EVENTS EACH MONTH: Love They Neighbor’s next event 25 MONTHS, NO INTEREST TO at the Citizens Center is scheduled for March 9, with additional QUALIFIED CUSTOMERS WITH events on the second Sunday of EQUAL MONTHLY PAYMENTS. each month.

The monthly schedule is from 2-5 p.m. with an inspirational message, followed by music. Meals ™ and beverages are served from IntelliGEN Series 3-4 p.m., with the food pantry IntelliGEN™ Series opened at 4 p.m. for distribution of groceries and sundries.

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18, March 2014

25th annual home & craft show

How to make a home handicap accessible Many homeowners have found themselves scrambling to make their homes handicap accessible after a sudden injury or illness. In addition, some homeowners have found themselves looking to make adjustments to their homes in anticipation of welcoming elderly, less mobile relatives into their homes.

Converting a home into a handicap-accessible space can seem like a daunting task that requires adjustments to nearly every part of the house. While the extent of those adjustments depends on the individual who needs to be accommodated, some of the areas homeowners must address when making their homes handicap accessible are universal

regardless of condition.

the

individual's

Entryways A home's entryways often must be addressed when making the home more handicapped accessible. Portable ramps can be an affordable option and are often an ideal for those who only need to make temporary adjustments, such as when a resident suffers an injury that requires he or she spend some time in a wheelchair.

When the adjustments will just be temporary, a folding wheelchair might be necessary, as the doorways might not be able to fit a standard wheelchair that doesn't fold.

When adjustments figure to be permanent, homeowners might

need to expand the doorways in their homes. Contractors typically recommend expanding doorways to at least 32 inches, which provides some maneuverability when wheelchairs, which are typically between 24 and 27 inches wide, are entering the home. Doorways at the most commonly used entryways, including front doors

and doors to the bathrooms as well as the individual's bedroom, will likely need to be widened.

Bathroom The bathroom might be the area of the home that needs the most attention. Slippery conditions common to bathrooms can make things especially difficult for

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slip-free surface on the floors of showers and tubs, can be installed.

Add a hand-held showerhead to the shower stall to make it easier for those with a disability to shower.

Portable transfer seats, which enable wheelchair-bound men and women transition from their chairs to showers and bathtubs, can be purchased and kept in or near the bathroom.

Water fixtures An overlooked adjustment homeowners must make when transforming their homes into handicap-accessible spaces concerns the sinks throughout the home.

Disabled persons may find it difficult to access a faucet on sinks throughout the home, especially when there are vanity cabinets beneath the sinks.

Replacing such sinks with pedestal sinks can improve maneuverability, but make sure such sinks are lower to the ground than standard pedestal sinks. A sink that's just a few inches lower than a standard sink is considerably more accessible to people in wheelchairs.

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March, 2014, 19

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20, March 2014

25th annual home & craft show

2013 accomplishments of KG Fire, Rescue, & Emergency Services New department slogan: “Our Family Protecting Yours.”

King George Fire & Rescue Chief David Moody presented his department’s list of accomplishments and work activities for 2013 to the Board of Supervisors at its meeting on Feb. 18. He also publicly unveiled a new department slogan that was formally adopted, “Our Family Protecting Yours.”

The listing of 2013 accomplishments, provided below are broken out into the various divisions of Training, Emergency Management Division, Operations, and Fire Prevention.

Following the presentation, four of the Supervisors commented, with Chairman Joe Grzeika saying, “I’d like to commend the Chief and the whole team. I think it’s important that we get out the information about all that you’ve done, because it’s remarkable. It’s remarkable for what gets done in this county and sometimes doesn’t get recognized. And I couldn’t be prouder of you all.”

Jim Howard added, “And when you consider where we were when all this started, and where we are now. It is absolutely amazing.

Joe – “We made some difficult decisions 12-13 years ago that now they are finalizing and really becoming reality and it’s good to see. And, couple that with the ISO report, I have to say ‘hats off ’ to the whole team, the whole county team, because you are a team."

Cedell Brooks commented on the exceptional service provided when a member of his family had a recent medical emergency resulting in a call, commending the commitment and dedication of the staff.

Dale Sisson said, “I’m always struck by the level of professionalism across all the services that are provided. And again, that’s independent as to whether folks are receiving a paycheck or doing it as a volunteer.”

Sisson added to Moody, “That’s a testament to your leadership.”

TRAINING: Training Man-Hours: 3,768.24; Classes held in 2013: ITLS – International Trauma Life Support; ASHI ACLS – Advanced Cardiac Life Support; ASHI & AHA CPR; ASHI PALS – Pediatric Advanced

Life Support; USCG Boating Skills & Seamanship; VDFP EVOC 1, 2, & 3 – Emergency Vehicle Operator Course; VDFP Fire Officer II; VDFP Fire Attack Series; VDFP Rope Rescuer Level I; VDFP Public Life Safety Educator I; ALS Preceptor update taught in-house to current preceptors; REMS Protocol Updates Rollout & Training.

Capt. Hynson and Kevin Bowen completed Tactical Medic Program; Capt. Hynson was selected and appointed to the KGSO Tactical team; Lt. Walter Coates, Donald Perry, Michael Hirsh, & Phillip Liggins completed 2013 Virginia Fire Officers Academy; Deputy Chief Robert Black completed Fire Officer 3; Camden Bullock completed his NRP – Paramedic; Capt. Steven Lynd completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Science and graduated with honors; and, Chief Moody completed the NFA Executive Fire Officer’s Program.

FIRE PREVENTION: • Worked closely with the community and other divisions of our department, conducting many public education and prevention

programs, reviewed pre-incident plans, reviewed emergency plans and many other activities.

• Installed Smoke Alarms in residences when requested; approx.

20 to 25 alarms installed.

• Performed approximately 40 standby’s or Public-Education events.

• Spoke with 1500+ children at various events about fire safety.

• Worked with Community Development on numerous plans review and code relate issues and inspections.

• Worked with King George Sheriff ’s Office and other agencies, conducting fire investigations and similar issues.

• Expansion of Knox Key Box program on buildings in the community as well as internally and also upgraded the Knox MedVault system for narcotics security.

• Worked with the school system on the Governor’s School Safety Audit along with several other organizations.

• Several members completed Public Educator Level 1 1035.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT: • Managed development

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and rollout of Mobile Mapping Software.

• Awarded: $669,700 AFG Radio Upgrade / $28,000 OEMS LUCAS II purchase / $12,500 HMEP Awarded a grant for emergency preparedness promotion materials in the amount of $10,000.

• StormReady certification renewed from the National Weather Service.

• Scheduled and conducted a King George specific highway incident management meeting.

• Reappointed LEPC (Local Emergency Planning Committee) members.

• Used emergency management grant money to upgrade training room computers.

• Secured grant funds for two Honda ATVs w/ trailer that went to KGSO for Search / Rescue operations.

• Purchased Dual-Band Consolette for backup ECC to communicate with Charles County, Stafford County, and in the near future Caroline County along with KGSO. • Al White retired as EM Planner.

OPERATIONS: • Placed the Department’s first Rehab unit in service (assistance provided by the Ladies’ Auxiliary).

CPR Save – Kevin Bowen & Timmy Pemberton (along with assistance

from the NDW Base Fire Dept.). Lt. Jay Hynson promoted to Captain; FF. Donald Perry promoted to Master Firefighter; FF. Harold Myers Promoted to Lieutenant; FF. Carolyn McGee certified as EMT-I; FF. William Taylor released as EMT-I; FF. Hollie Carpenter certified as EMT-I. • Boat 1 replaced with a new Zodiac style rescue boat, including new outboard motor.

• Boat 2 electrical system overhauled. New EMS equip placed in service - 2 additional Lucas II, 7 suction units, and 3 King Airway Visions.

• Annual Testing - All Fire hose, pumping testing, Ladder’s, and SCBA’s.

• Multiple child safety seat inspections and installations.

• Compiled data from CAD sheets for call statistics. Organized compiled data on call statistics and volunteer participation and provided statistical reports.

• Supported Sheriff ’s Office by providing tactical medical support for multiple SRT (Special Response Team) Operations.

• Dept. is compliant with OEMS and VDFP reporting requirements.

• Upgraded all mobile and portable radios to Dual-Band capable of communicating with Charles County, Stafford County, and in the near future Caroline

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County.

• Purchased 6 Dual-Band portable radios to communicate with Westmoreland County (400 mHz UHF).

FIRE PREVENTION/CALLS: • Responded to 3,135 calls as of 1/1/13 to 12/15/13: (FH).

• Total Calls: 3,135 / EMS: 1970 / Fire: 320 / Both: 949 ((Dec12Nov13)(CAD)) Ended: 12-31-13 3,281; • To date 1-10-14: 62 calls (Revised: 2-18-14 435 calls for service).

Transported 1,599 patients from 12/16/12 to 12/15/13(VPHIB) • 19 Medevac’s (VPHIB) • 31 Structure Fires • 28 Wildland/Vegetation Fires • 17 Vehicle Fires • 17 Other Type Fires • 367 Emergency medical assist / first response • 249 Motor Vehicle Accidents • 19 Hazardous Material Incidents • 31 Hazardous Condition Calls • 6 Aircraft Standbys • 247 False Alarm / Good Intent Calls • 72 Public Service Calls • 1 Storm Assessment Calls • Total Dollar Saved: $7,003,750 • No major injuries or line of duty deaths with any Department personnel UPCOMING FOR 2014: • Arrival of the new Engine 11.

• EMT Basic started with a full class of 30 students.

• 32 volunteer members took advantage of personal property exemption ordinance for active volunteers for participation in 2013.

• Continue to follow the Department’s 5 year Strategic Planning model and recommendations from the 2011 State Fire / Rescue Study.

• Filling 8 fulltime vacancies – 6 for Co.3 (Fairview Beach).

• Fill the Emergency Management Planner position (Kim Wilson).

• Completion of Co. 3 renovation.

• A, B, C shifts working on room projects at Co.1.

• Working with the Board of Supervisors, finalizing a parcel of property for a new Co.2 Dahlgren station.

• Working jointly with KGSO as a partner in a new Incident Command vehicle.

• Begin process to transition KGALERT & Citywatch to Everbridge to save money and improve services, LEPC first public body to view. Roll out team with KGSO, KGSA, and other stakeholders assisting with transition.

• ISO rating will be reduced with a reconfigured and reduced rating which will have impact on every home and business owner throughout the county. FSPA 5-10, FDS 6-10. Thanks to our Department, King George Service Authority, King George Sheriff ’s Office Communications Div. New rating will be effective March 1.

Discover the ways to fireproof a home A house fire can engulf and destroy a home in a matter of minutes. Even with a fast-acting response by firefighters, the house on fire may be irreparably damaged.

Most fires are largely preventable. The following are a few fireproofing measures for safety-conscious homeowners. * Install smoke detectors and check the batteries regularly.

A smoke detector should be installed outside of every bedroom and on every level of the house. Don't install a smoke detector near a window, door or forced-air register, where drafts could interfere with the detector's operation. Be sure to routinely check that every smoke detector is working properly. * Have a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location. Ideally, there should be a fire extinguisher in every room of the home, but at the least keep one wherever fire is used regularly, such as a kitchen or by a fireplace. Ensure the fire extinguisher is charged and that you understand how to operate it. * Remove combustible

materials from around the house.

Do not allow old clothing, rags, newspapers, or cardboard boxes to accumulate around the house.

Discard newspapers and magazines as quickly as possible and be careful to avoid storing anything too close to heaters, furnaces or electrical equipment. * Adhere to the recommended wattage in lamps and lighting fixtures. Do not exceed the recommended bulb wattage for lights around the house. There may be overheating or shorting that can lead to fire. * Look for fireproof interior decor items. Nowadays, carpeting and furniture can be coated with fireproof chemicals. The added investment may be worth it in the long run. * Do not leave candles unattended.

Candles also provide emergency illumination in the event of a power outage. Candles can be easily knocked over and start a fire. Never leave a candle unattended, even for a short amount of time. And certainly never go to sleep without

March, 2014, 21

extinguishing a candle. * Keep the chimney clean. Inspect the chimney flue regularly and have it cleaned to prevent an abundance of residual burnt material from accumulating. This creosote can catch fire itself. * Use a fire-resistant roofing material. A roof should be made from metal, clay or asphalt tiles.

Trim any overhanging branches or vegetation to reduce the amount of combustible material nearby. * Have a fire-safe wall behind wood heaters. A brick wall or another fireproof material should be used on any walls that house a wood- or gas-burning appliance for added safety. * Verify electrical safety. Extension cords and power strips should be kept to a minimum, and the outlets should not be overloaded. Replace fuses properly and don't be afraid to call a certified electrician to verify you are correctly set up.

By making a few tweaks in and around the house, a homeowner can decrease the likelihood of a fire.

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How to reduce home improvement project waste The home improvement industry has grown considerably over the last several decades, as homeowners increasingly took steps to turn their homes into personal oases. But such projects often produce substantial amounts of waste, negatively impacting the environment as a result.

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, an estimated 170 million tons of building construction, renovation and demolition-derived wastes were generated in 2003. A year when the housing market was thriving and homeowners were not shying away from costly home improvement projects. With the housing market once again on the rebound, the home improvement industry figures to benefit once again. There are steps ecoconscious homeowners can take to reduce waste while improving their homes.

Save salvageable materials.

Some materials simply must be discarded when making improvements to a home.

But many more materials can be salvaged. When making renovations to a home, separate materials like unused lumber, hardware, fixtures, and even appliances that can be salvaged from those materials that must be discarded. Many communities are home to organizations that collect salvageable materials, and can the materials can be reused by fellow homeowners or other organizations down the road.

Speak to contractors about recycling.

Contractors working on a home typically know which materials can be recycled in a given area. When discussing prospective projects

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with contractors, homeowners can mention their willingness to recycle materials. Wood is a versatile material that can be turned into reclaimed or composite wood products, including decks or other items used around the home. Old wood being removed from a home may even work as mulch, which homeowners can spread around their yards to add aesthetic appeal and protect plants on hot summer days. Even asphalt and concrete can be recycled into new products, and homeowners should discuss their wishes to recycle as many materials as possible.

often include the percentages of postconsumer and recovered materials used in each product.

Materials such as drywall, insulation, kitchen countertops, glass tiles, carpeting and carpet padding may include recycled content, and the growing popularity of such products has made them relatively simple for homeowners to find. When working with contractors, homeowners should emphasize their desire to use materials made from recycled content. Such materials are both pleasing to the eye and the environment.

Choose recycled content building materials.

Another way to reduce home improvement project waste is to make use of other homeowners' discarded materials. Recycled content building materials are products that include materials recycled from previous projects.

These once-sparse materials are now commonplace, and labels

Embrace adaptability when designing a new home.

Rarely do homeowners design their homes with renovations in mind. When building a dream home, homeowners do not consider the likelihood that they will one day move out or even outgrow the home. Estimates vary considerably with regard to how

long the average homeowner stays in his home, with some suggesting as little as seven years. While data collected from the United States Census Bureau within the last decade suggests that roughly half of all homeowners had lived in their homes for at least 10 years.

Homeowners building new homes should expect to one day move, and ensuring their new homes are easily adaptable is both financially sound and eco-friendly.

When a home is built with adaptability in mind, prospective buyers won't have to make costly overhauls. In addition, homes built to facilitate future renovations won't produce the same amount of waste as homes that are less easily adapted.

Many homeowners embrace home improvement projects as opportunities to turn their homes into private sanctuaries. But those who do so with the environment in mind can significantly reduce waste and still end up living in luxury.

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Let daylight saving time inspire energy savings When the time comes, people around the world diligently turn their clocks an hour ahead come the springtime and turn them back again when autumn arrives. This is because of daylight saving time, an idea first introduced centuries ago

by Benjamin Franklin.

When daylight saving time, or DST, was first introduced, much of what people did in their daily lives was governed by sunlight, as it was difficult to do anything once the sun set and night could only be illuminated by fire and candles.

Franklin felt the country could be more productive if everyone rose earlier to maximize daytime. In the summer, pushing the clocks ahead allowed people to work longer into the evening.

But Franklin’s idea was not officially implemented until much later, when it was instituted during World War I to save money on electricity and devote more money to coal during the time of war. DST was repealed during peacetime, but implemented again during World War II and once again during the 1973 oil embargo.

Today, more than 70 countries

participate in DST, many of which do so because they believe it helps to save money on electricity. In the United States, Arizona and Hawaii do not participate.

Despite all of the hype surrounding DST and its financial impact, a 1975 U.S. Department of Transportation Study indicated that DST has a relatively insignificant impact on electricity usage. A 2008 study conducted in the state of Indiana compared electricity use before and after the state adopted DST. The results indicated a 1 percent increase in residential electricity use after DST was implemented.

Various governments and scientists continue to look at the practice of DST to see if it has any measurable benefits. Some medical studies indicate that DST can disrupt sleeping patterns, leading to added stress on the body and an increased risk of heart attack.

But DST has its supporters as well, and individuals can take their own steps to curb electricity usage throughout the year. * Tailor your schedule to the daylight hours. Rise when the sun

rises and go to bed when the sun sets to reduce your reliance on electricity. * Only use lights in the rooms you’re occupying. Turn off electrical appliances and fixtures when you leave the room. * Spend more time outdoors, grilling outside and dining on the patio. * Use appliances during off-peak hours to save money on energy costs. * Open the windows on cooler days to keep interior spaces at a comfortable temperature. * Rely on sunlight as much as possible, opening curtains and blinds to let more light into your home. * Adjust the thermostat on HVAC systems to keep the system off when you’re not at home. * Reduce reliance on electrical forms of entertainment, such as televisions, computers, tablets, and gaming systems.

While daylight saving time may not be all it was intended to be, people can still do their part to conserve energy throughout the year.

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Recognizing safety hazards around the house Home may be where the heart is, but it also can be an unsafe place if safety hazards are not recognized and addressed.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission says consumer products and other dangers in the home injure each year 33.1 million people. Here is a collection of home hazards that can compromise safety in and around the house.

Flooding: Super storms have been wreaking havoc on many areas of the country.

Flooding is a common side effect of strong rains and high tides, and the aftermath of a flood can turn a home from a haven into a hazard.

Microorganisms in floodwaters may contaminate drinking water, and wet walls and floors can present a breeding ground for insects, pests and microorganisms like mold and mildew. The National Safety Council says microorganisms can penetrate into soaked, porous materials and later be released into the air and inhaled. Flooding also may lead to weakened or rotted floorboards.

Magnets: Very small magnets are popular

in jewelry, toys, building sets, and more. The number of products with strong magnets has increased, which may pose significant safety threats to children. The CPSC says that magnets have contributed to one death and 86 injuries since 2005. Eight million magnetic toys have been recalled. Magnets that are swallowed may not pass easily through the digestive system. Oftentimes, they can get trapped in place when attracted to one another or a piece of metal and pinch or twist the intestines, potentially causing blockage or infection.

Furniture tip-over: Large furniture and electronics that are not balanced well or anchored to a wall can be pulled over by children and even adults.

Small children can be seriously injured by tip-over accidents, which cause an estimated 22 deaths per year.

Pools and spas: While drowning in pools and spas is a leading cause of death, there are other dangers lurking.

Faulty underwater lighting,

appliances that fall into the water and aging wiring can result in electrocution. The CPSC notes that suction from a pool or spa drain is also potentially hazardous.

The majority of suction accidents involved children, but suction can hold an adult underwater. There have even been cases of people being disemboweled from pool drains. Installing a safety vacuum release system that turns off the pool pump when a drain is blocked can prevent entrapment.

by garage doors. From fingers and toes getting trapped to heavy doors falling on children and adults, garage doors can cause serious injury.

Falls: Falls are a leading cause of injury to people of all ages. Falls down stairs, from windows and off of

ladders are just some of the reasons people visit emergency rooms each and every day. Ensuring there are no tripping hazards around the house and also having sturdy handles and guardrails present for use by the elderly can help prevent some falls.

There are many dangers lurking around the house, and awareness of such hazards can help prevent serious injury.

Fire: Home fire injuries are highest among seniors and children under the age of five. In addition, home fires are a leading cause of emergency room visits. Smoke alarms on every level of the house can alert to danger, but ensuring candles are extinguished and electrical wiring is up to date and making sure space heaters and other appliances are not left unattended can help prevent fires.

Garage doors: The CPSC says an average of 20,000 people each year are treated in the hospital for injuries caused

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Equip your home with a sump pump and backup battery In 2012, hundreds of miles of coastline along the northeastern United States were battered and decimated due to Hurricane Sandy. More than a year later, many homeowners were still dealing with the consequences of the devastating storm.

Hurricane Sandy illustrated just how destructive water can be.

Each year, storms across North America have the potential to flood homes or cause water to enter the basement or first floor. According to the National Flood Insurance Program, a mere six inches of water in a 2,000 square foot home can cause around $40,000 in damage.

Homeowners looking to avoid such damages can rely on sump pumps and backup emergency systems to keep sublevels dry and safe.

Sump pumps are frequently used in homes at risk of flooding or in homes where the water table is above the foundation of the home.

Sump pumps remove water that has accumulated in a water collecting sump basin built into the foundation

of the home. Water may enter through perimeter drains (French drains) built into the basement or directly through the sump basin itself. The pump will send the water away from the house through a series of pipes that could drain into a dry well, into a municipal storm drain or at the curb.

Many sump pumps are hardwired into a home's electrical system and will automatically turn on when the water level in the sump basin has risen enough to trigger the pump. A flotation device built into the pump will rise enough to turn on the pump, which will then dispel the water until the device returns to its regular level.

When operating correctly, sump pumps are effective at removing water and keeping basements and crawl spaces dry. However, in the event of a power outage, which is common when strong winds accompany flooding rains, a sump pump is rendered useless unless there is a backup battery attached to the sump pump.

Hurricane Sandy illustrated just how destructive water can be.

Having a battery hooked up to a sump pump, or a backup sump pump that is battery-powered, can give homeowners peace of mind in any storm. A backup plan ensures the pump will still be able to remove water for a certain period of time until electricity is restored to the home. Another option is to make sure the sump pump is connected to a power generator should the main power supply go out. As long as the generator is running, the sump pump will expel the water.

Water damage to a home can cost thousands of dollars in repairs, particularly when it is not covered by standard home insurance policies. Sump pumps can help keep homes dry and safe.

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March, 2014, 25

‘

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Community good

Want to get involved. Community groups will be at the Home & Craft Show also, with information about how they are serving the area. The 2013 show featured Habitat for Humanity and an effort to an ADA accessible playground for the King George Preschool.

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Who will be at the Show Community Groups KG Ruritans KG-YMCA Toastmasters UDC US Navy Seals

KG Rotary KGARL KG Preschool PTA KG Historical Society GS Trooop 812 4H Horse Club

March, 2014, 27

And home builders, etc.

SkillsUSA Relay 4 Life American Legion Post 89 NARFE Chapter 595 Eden Estates Pool KG Farmers’ Market

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Quality Carpet & Floor Weston Homes Hugh Gardiner, Inc. Coldwell Banker Elite Green Acres Cliff’s Electric Professional Plumbing Westbrook Homes Account, Inc. Legacy Homes Thomas M. Burrell, Inc. Deputy Land Surveying

Eastside Glass Shop, Inc. The Carpet House Ameritech Construction Corp.

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25th annual home & craft show

Familiar faces

Jack Green, Director, Department of Community Development for King George County (left) and Harvey Yarus of Eastside Glass (right, facing camera) are familiar faces from many previous home shows.

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Everything for the Home ...

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Bright Colors

At the end of winter it is nice to get out of the house and to the Home & Craft Show where there are bright color and interesting scents. And folks who are happy to see you!

Who else will be there?

Vendors at the Show Scrappe Totes Four Star Creations Arc Angels Ed’s Pens True Romance Dr. Richard Cottrell Marty Galusha Janet Beck Linda Scott Emerald Sun Wood Shop Cut Right Now to Education Avon VCLA Blue Phoenix Pampered Chef Mary Kay Robopretty Girl & Co.

Peery’s Natural Cheese The Ultimate Brownie Joan Hayden Word of Mouth Style Bubble Shooters & Novelties Scentsy Active Blessing Designs by Gerry Khunying Jewelry The Bra Fairy Herb Fancy Steve’s Locksmith Wayne Meyerhoff Wendy Moore Tastefully Simple Richard Compton Harrison Lake Crafters Wood Sand Paint

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Common sources of indoor air pollution When considering the threat of air pollution, many people immediately note the damage done by excessive emissions from vehicles and factories. However, the air inside a home is susceptible to pollution as well. The following are some of the more common sources of indoor air pollution that can prove just as harmful to human beings as those sources emanating from outside our homes.

Carpet: Some materials in carpet emit

volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, which are emitted as gases and can have both short- and longterm adverse health effects. The concentration of many VOCs is as much as 10 times higher indoors than outdoors. When purchasing new carpet, homeowners can choose low-VOC adhesives that do not contain formaldehyde. It's also ideal to install new carpet in spring or early summer, when windows can be opened to air out the carpet for several hours without compromising comfort

for those people inside the home.

Glue: Glue is widely considered a handy cure-all for minor problems around the house, but glue may also be compromising your health.

Certain glues and adhesives like rubber cement emit VOCs, which can irritate the eyes and even the nervous system, and some may even emit toxic formaldehyde.

When purchasing glues and other adhesives, opt for water-based products and avoid using glues

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and adhesives in smaller, poorly ventilated areas of your home.

Air fresheners: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency notes that many household air fresheners almost continuously release pollutants.

While some air fresheners are safe, the best way to freshen air in a home is to open the windows and let fresh air inside. When possible, open the windows to let fresh air in rather than relying on potentially harmful store-bought air fresheners.

Older appliances:

March, 2014, 31

Old or malfunctioning stoves, furnaces and space heaters pose both safety and health risks around a home, and increase the risk of fire around a home. But such products also intermittently release pollutants, putting residents' health in jeopardy. Homeowners should look into replacing especially old appliances, as today's newer products are both more efficient and liable to emit fewer pollutants than older products.

Malfunctioning products should be fixed immediately or replaced if repairs are unlikely to significantly extend the life expectancy of the product.

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My basement is wet; now what?

Few things can cause more damage to a home than water.

Leaks and flooding can cause various structural insufficiencies and may lead to unsafe conditions in a home. Panic often sets in when water enters a home.

Some homeowners live in areas where a high water table inevitably

forces groundwater up and into subterranean living spaces. Others may live close to coastal areas or rivers and streams that can overflow and cause home flooding.

Still others who may not have had a water problem before learn that a heavy rainfall, and perhaps inadequate drainage outdoors, can

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cause water damage to a home.

Compounding these issues is the fact that very often a home's utility systems are located out of the way in basements, or these spaces may be finished to create additional living space. Water in a basement can be much more than a nuisance. Water can lead to thousands of dollars in damage.

Moisture or several inches of water in a basement is nothing to take lightly. Furnaces and water heaters damaged by water can be costly to replace. Wires that come in contact with water can become hazards and cause an electrical fire, and water in a basement may be a harbinger for bacteria and viruses, creating unsanitary living conditions in the home.

Mold spores that have developed in a damp basement can spread to other areas of the home thanks to a heating and cooling forced air system. And a cool, damp spot can be the perfect habitat for insects.

When a basement develops a water problem, it is best to call in a professional. Although it might not be cheap, calling a professional can help you to remedy the situation faster than if you try several methods to fix the water problem yourself. When looking for a waterproofing company, seek recommendations from people you trust. Only do business with licensed professional contractors who are willing to give you a free estimate. You also can check out businesses by contacting consumer advocacy groups. You may be able to read up on their business practices and learn if there have been any complaints lodged against a company in the past.

Hydrostatic pressure, poor foundations and cracks can cause water to enter the house.

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some water problems, certain modifications must be made.

While the following solutions may not be applicable in each situation, they are some of the more common modifications plumbers suggest when fixing flooded basements. * Sump pump: In some cases, the installation of a well and a submersible pump may be all that's needed to keep basements dry. When water rises high enough to start the pump, the sump pump will then expel the water out through a pipe to a drain or the street. Sometimes a sump pump works in concert with a French drainage system, which is a channel around the perimeter of the basement that funnels water to the sump pump well. * Vapor barriers: Vinyl, plastic and paint encapsulation systems may be applied to the interior of foundation walls to serve as a barrier system. This prevents water or condensation from reaching the interior of the house. A vapor barrier may extend below the foundation to direct water runoff into a drainage system. * Exterior fixes: There are many ways to address flooding from outside the home. These include using outdoor vapor barriers and paints, having grading issues corrected so water will flow away from the home, digging of a swale to catch water away from the basement, exterior drainage systems, and utilizing specialized rain gutters and downspouts to direct water further away from the home during rainstorms. * Plumbing repairs: Sometimes water issues may be the result of a pipe backup or a faulty appliance and not necessarily an outdoor water issue. In these cases, repairing the source of the leak may be all that's needed.

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How to inspect for roof damage Many homeowners do not think twice about their roofs. But when leaks develop, roof repairs and the subsequent costs of such work shed light on how important it is for homeowners to pay closer attention to the roofs over their heads.

Though certain roof issues, like shingles lost to inclement weather, are unforeseeable, many problems can be avoided with routine roof inspection. Checking roof conditions twice a year can help homeowners avoid potentially costly repair work or even more expensive roof replacement projects.

Spring is a good time to inspect roofs, which are often at the mercy of harsh conditions throughout the winter. Heavy snow, ice and biting winds can do significant damage, making spring the perfect time to assess if any such damage occurred and address any issues. * Start the inspection in the interior of the home. Before breaking out the ladder and climbing up to the roof, inspect the home's interior, pinpointing potential problems that may indicate roof damage. Check for stains on the ceiling which may

indicate leaks that need to be addressed. Homeowners with attics should enter their attics and look for signs of water damage, making note of any damp or wet insulation. This will let you know if water has been entering the attic all winter. Pay attention to the location of any wet spots or stains so you can match them up to the exterior of the roof later on. Musty smells also may be indicative of moisture problems, even if there are no visible leaks. * Inspect the roof outside. Grab a set of binoculars and inspect the exterior of the roof. Look at the roof flashing, including around the chimney and other areas of protruding pipes and vents. If the flashing is warped or damaged, moisture might be settling underneath.

Sealant around dormers or skylights can also degrade, resulting in leaks. Check for spalling on masonry, such as the mortar of chimneys. Porous areas will allow water to infiltrate. * Go directly on the roof and check. Work with a partner and carefully climb on the roof while someone holds the ladder

below. Walk on the perimeter of the roof, looking for peeling or warped shingles, missing shingles, holes, or scrapes. If the roof is compromised in any way, it will need to be repaired. The problem will only grow more significant and repairs more expensive if damage is ignored. Sometimes a repair can be as simple as patching a leak with a new shingle and roofing cement. Popped nails can be pounded down and any curled shingles can be nailed or cemented back into place. * Consult a roofing expert. If you are unsure if your roof has made it through the winter unscathed and would like a second opinion or if you find there is considerable damage, contact a roofing contractor. This person will offer a professional assessment of what can be repaired or if the roof should be replaced. * Check the gutters, too. While you are up on the roof, inspect the gutters and downspouts as well.

Cracked or damage gutters will cause water to leak down the side of the home, potentially damaging the foundation. Clear any debris or

leftover leaves from the gutters to ensure the rain can wash through unobstructed.

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Things to consider before downsizing your home savings. But that's only true if your new home won't incur any additional expenses that are already taken care of in your current home. For example, your current home may be fully furnished, while a new, smaller home may require you to buy all new furniture because your existing items simply won't fit. The cost of such furnishings can be considerable. If you plan to move into a condominium, you can expect to pay monthly homeowners association fees, and such fees are often substantial. So while the condo itself might be smaller, the additional expenses associated with the property may end up making the smaller home more expensive and prevent you from saving more money for retirement.

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Once their kids have left the nest, many men and women over 50 begin to consider downsizing their homes. Downsizing to a smaller home can be beneficial for a variety of reasons, including less home to clean and maintain, more affordable utility bills and lower property taxes. But the decision to downsize is rarely black and white, and men and women often struggle with that decision.

Perhaps the most difficult part of the decision of whether or not to downsize to smaller home concerns the sentimental attachment many homeowners, especially those with children, have to their homes.

The home might be too big for your current needs, but it also was the same place where your son took his first steps and where your daughter lost her first tooth. Saying goodbye to a place that was home to so many memories isn't easy. But there's more than just sentimental value to consider when deciding whether or not to downsize your home after the kids have grown up and moved out.

Real estate market There are seller's markets and there are buyer's markets, and ideally you would like to sell your home in a seller's market. But keep in mind that this might be the same market in which you hope to buy a new home. The nature of the real estate market depends on a host of factors, including geography. If the city or town where you currently live is in the midst of a seller's market and you are planning on moving to a location where buyers have the upper hand, then now might be a great time to move.

But if you currently live in a buyer's market and hope to move to a seller's market, then you may end up paying a steep price, even when downsizing to a smaller home. Things may even themselves out if you want to downsize to a smaller home within your current community, but do your homework nonetheless, researching the time of year when you're most likely to get the most for your home and find the best deal on your next place. The advantage men and women considering downsizing have is that they are rarely in a rush to move out of their current home and into their next one. This gives them ample time to make the real estate market work for them.

Personal finances Your financial situation merits significant consideration when deciding if the time is right to downsize your home. If your retirement nest egg is not as substantial as you would like it to be, then it would seem as though downsizing to a smaller, more affordable home is a great opportunity for you to start catching up on your retirement

Space How much space do you really need?

Once the kids have moved out, couples may feel like all of that extra space is going to waste. But that can be a knee-jerk reaction, and upon a more thorough examination of the space and your needs you may just find that you can put all of that extra square footage to good use after

Look for photos from the 2014 King George Home & Craft Show in the March 5 Journal

36, March 2014

25th annual home & craft show

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