Expressing sympathy during this new normal
Experiencing the loss of a loved one is always difficult. In today's environment of "social distancing", we are even more challenged in finding ways to reach out and connect to those who need comfort at a time of loss. While many of us may be adapting to new everyday routines, the etiquette of expressing sympathy by and large has not changed. Here are a few helpful tips from 1-800-Flowers.com: 1. Even if you don't know the person well, saying, "I'm sorry for your loss" is always appropriate and meaningful. It's acknowledging what has happened in an honest and direct way. And lets the person know they have permission to experience any uncomfortable emotions. Read more tips on how to comfort someone who is grieving here. 2. If they haven't said anything on Facebook, neither should you. But if they have posted about it, it is appropriate to comment. Read more about the do's and don'ts on expressing condolences on social media here. 3. Due to recent regulations on large gatherings in many states due to COVID-19, many funeral services are being postponed or livestreamed over the internet making it an extraordinarily stressful time for the immediate family. If you aren't able to express your condolences in person at this time, deliveries of a gourmet food basket, houseplant or sympathy flowers to their home are appropriate ways to let them know you are thinking of them. Find these sympathy gifts and more for home delivery here. 4. And remember to support those who have experienced the loss of a loved one in recent months, and may be feeling a bit more aware right now; be it due to social distancing or an upcoming important date or anniversary. Rebecca Soffer, co-founder of Modern Loss provides some additional thoughts here. You can also explore complimentary sentiment ecards for Thinking of you and Sympathy to let them know you are thinking about them. For additional resources on sympathy and remembrance, click here. If you are in need of expressing your condolences and not sure what to send, 1-800-Flowers.com sympathy specialists can help by calling 1-866-538-2259.
Welcome to the May edition of Village News Magazine. While the world is being turned upside down, we are celebrating this month. First of all, we celebrate “Mother’s Day” and that special woman that made it possible for us to live. Second celebration comes with the beginning of the Village News 17th year providing you this magazine free of charge. What a milestone during a terrible time in our world! First to our moms. I was lucky to grow up in the 40’s with a mother that cared for my sister and I in Los Angeles. A single mom, she was one of the first women in our town to get a credit card. Back then, women were treaded as second class citizens. Once she got that J.C. Penny card, I began wearing that underwear brand and to this day wouldn’t buy any other. My mom taught us manners, how to cook and how to treat others with respect. All this while she went to school to become an elementary teacher (for more than 40 years), worked at the grocery store as a checker and held us together. My dad was still in the picture on weekends but during the week it was mom that make everything possible. I grew up better because of her. I celebrate mom (Clarice) with great respect. I can still hear her voice in my head when she would call to check up on me even though I was grown. Here’s to you mom. Love you! As to the celebration of the Village News 17th year. This was an idea that was floated to me by my friend Jim Murphey during a round of golf. He even came up with the name. We try to continue the practice of keeping our magazine free of negativity and provide it free to you, our neighbors and friends every month. Thank you to our graphic artist Tara and our contributing editors. Here’s to another 17 years!
Village News Staff Peter Cousin Editor-in-Chief Peter@InsitePublishing.com 757-301-9617 Tara Perrone Lead Graphic Designer Tara@InsitePublishing.com 757-301-9617 Andrea Cousin Production Manager Andrea@InsitePublishing.com 757-301-9617 David Gilmet Business Development David@InsitePublishing.com 757-301-9617 Shannon Brown Business Development Shannon@InsitePublishing.com 757-335-9239 Pam Monahan Contributing Editor Pammonahan551@yahoo.com 757-301-9887 David Cando IT Department Dcando@Gmail.com 757-497-1620
Golf Golf Tips Tips 5 Golf Tips Fix Your Short Game
Education Education 4 Fashion Trends May 11 Computer Mandate 22 Your May 2020 Horoscope
FEATURE FEATURE 15 HAPPY Mother’s Day 23 Caregiving and COVID-19
Neighborhood Neighborhood News News 9 Natural Virginia Beach - Mother Eagle
Culture Culture 7 Gourmet SELECTS: Lemon Chicken Piccata 11 COCKTAILS On The House: May Day Rum
Humor 5 Golf Humor 3V
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BRA ACCENTUATION If lockdown is over once the peak of summer arrives, then believe it or not we'll all be dressing a whole lot more risquĂŠ. While last year saw the (very brief) resurgence of the exposed thong, SS20 is all about detailing around the brazziere. From exposed bandeaus to sequin accentuation we'll see you and your undies next season.
Christopher Kane, Mark Fast, JW Anderson
WRAPPED ANKLES If you've been keeping an eye on street style stars over the last few months, you'll have noticed that several have been tying their sandal straps around their trousers. Not a fleeting trend, forecasts suggest this look will be lapped up this summer.
JW Anderson, Toga, Charlotte Knowles
TORSO RUCHING Ruching is often found at wrists or necks, but the SS20 runways predict that it'll be all over our torsos come summer. A great way to add texture and shape to an otherwise simple dress, it immediately makes any piece look high-end.
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Fix Your Short Game bump-and-run: Best used when there’s a lot of real estate to cover and you need to get the golf ball rolling quickly, the bump-and-run is your safest choice around the greens. Here’s how to do it: Use a lower-lofted club (like an 8- or 7iron) and set up with your feet slightly open and close together. Keep your weight forward (this prevents you from falling back and catching it thin) and swing the golf club like stroking a putt (some golfers even use their putting grip). Next, pick a quartersized spot on or off the green where you need to land the ball and simply focus on hitting it to that point. It’s a shorter swing, so less can go wrong; think of it like a big putt. Pitch: When you need to get the golf ball up in the air yet travel a short distance, the pitch shot will be your best friend. Many golfers know pitch shots
require less force, but they dial back power in the wrong way. Here’s how to hit the proper pitch: Use a higher-lofted club (pitching wedge to lob wedge) and set up with your feet close together and square to the target. On the backswing, let your wrists hinge slightly so the handle stays close to your midsection. Keep your lower body fluid during pitch shots, so a little hip turn is ideal. On the downswing, let your arms pass in front of you and turn your lower body toward the target with your hips level; your hands and grip should finish almost in your left pocket (for righthanded players). Important to note, maintaining clubhead speed is key on this shot and you create it by releasing your hands, not by tugging the handle.
24882488 North Landing Road, Suite 107
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What you’ll need 3 large skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into 1/2-inch medallions salt and pepper to taste ½ cup all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, or as needed 1 clove garlic, minced 1 cup low sodium chicken broth ½ lemon, thinly sliced ¼ cup fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed 3 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons minced Italian (flat-leaf) parsley Step 1: Preheat oven to 200 degrees F (95 degrees C). Place a serving platter into the oven to warm. Step 2: Season the chicken breast pieces with salt and pepper and dredge them in flour. Shake off excess flour. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet; pan-fry the chicken pieces until golden brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Work in batches and do not crowd skillet, adding oil as needed . Place the chicken pieces onto the warmed platter in the oven. When finished with all the chicken, drain most of the oil from the skillet, leaving a thin coating on the surface of the pan.
Dinner Good Enough to EAT! Not sure how to make it or what goes in it? No prob-
Remember you eat with your eyes first You should enjoy the food you eat.
Step 3: Cook and stir the minced garlic in the skillet until fragrant, about 20 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth. Scrape and dissolve any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the lemon slices and bring the mixture to a boil. Let cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces to about 2/3 cup, 5 to 8 minutes. Add the lemon juice and capers; simmer until the sauce is reduced and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes more. Drop the butter into the skillet and swirl it into the sauce by tilting the skillet until the butter is melted and incorporated. Add the parsley; remove from heat and set aside.
Here, Village News Shows You How.
Step 4: Arrange the chicken medallions on serving plates and spoon sauce over each portion to serve.
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By Pam Monahan
Mother Eagle
S
ince my childhood, I have been enamored by our national bird, the Bald Eagle. I have memories of seeing them in several zoos and notably, Busch Gardens. I watched the local WVEC Eagle Cam from Norfolk Botanical Gardens for many years as an adult and I grieved with thousands of people worldwide when the nesting female Eagle was killed by an incoming flight at Norfolk International Airport in 2011. Beginning in 2018, I was fortunate to be able to watch nesting Bald Eagle pairs at several local nests in Virginia Beach as a Virginia Master Naturalist volunteer for the Virginia Bird Breeding Atlas. The most visible one is located on Honey Bee Golf Course and can be viewed from a public residential street. These Bald Eagles are perhaps the most observed Bald Eagles in Virginia, thanks to social media and local media outlets. Sadly, this nest failed in 2018 when the eggs in the nest were destroyed and the female eagle was injured by an intruding Bald Eagle, while she was incubating. The eggs were just 2 weeks away from hatching. I was told by my Bald Eagle mentor, Reese F. Lukei, Jr. of the Center for Conservation Biology at William & Mary, that a second clutch was possible, but it didn’t happen. I watch the pair at Honey Bee for about 6 weeks following the nest failure and although the male brought in a few sticks, they did not renest and eventually left the area for a time. But, it was during this time that I was able to identify the female from the male. This particular pair is quite identical! The following year, 2019, the nest successfully fledged its first two eaglets! It was quite exciting to be a small part of this success story! The parents were great parents! It was this season that I
really was able to focus on the Bald Eagle female, who I began to privately think of as “Mother Eagle.” I believe that Mother Eagle approves the nest location
of HK’s death.
and substrate. This nest had already been built by a previous resident male Bald Eagle (banded Bald Eagle “HK”), beginning in 2013 in a very large Loblolly Pine Tree, a typical site for eagle nests in Virginia. In my opinion, he never acquired a mate at that location and eggs were never laid there. That eagle was struck and killed by an automobile in 2017, leaving the nest vacant for a new pair to claim, which they did with weeks
The key to identifying male from female eagles is size. The female in the Chesapeake Bay region is typically 1/3 larger than the male. This is called reverse sexual dimorphism. Additionally, their beak depth and talon length are longer. I’ve found if they are perched side by side, it is a lot easier to tell them apart! My observations include the male bringing in most of the nest material while the female does the “arranging.” After eggs are laid, Mother Eagle does most, but not all of the incubating. She also stays on the newly hatched eaglets for about 2 weeks after hatching, as they don’t yet have enough feathers to stay warm. The male brings in food and I have seen them both do the feeding but also occasionally she has not allowed the male to feed, even blocking him from the nest! It’s clear who is in charge and it’s Mother Eagle!
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The Computer Mandate www.ExecTechVA.net
Dear Village News Readers, Oh my. Happy May to you everyone. This is a special month as it’s Mother’s Day. What would we be without our moms? Nothing! So in celebration of Mother’s Day here’s our monthly tip. Turn off. Say what? Turn off? What’s that about? Well think about your computer working hard hour after hour, day by day, month by month... you get the picture. If you leave your computer on all the time it doesn’t have time to rest. What I mean by that is it continues to be there for you as soon as you sit down. Right? Well here’s a thought. Turn it off when you’re done. Let it properly cool down. I know that’s what
the fans are for but giving it a rest once in awhile isn’t a bad idea. Read a book. Watch TV or here’s one... have a conversation with a family member. In the meantime while we wait for this virus to be over officially, call my office at 497-1620 and let’s get you scheduled for a deep leaning both to the interior of your unit as well as your software. We will get you scheduled for the day when all of this ends and we can move on with our lives. From all of us here, we wish you and your family well. Be safe and be healthy! David always say: We're always available to Village News readers for a quick analysis of your equipment. Just give us a call at 497-1620. Remember our motto: David “Can-Do!”
May Day Rum Cocktail The May Day cocktail is a bounty of fruit trapped inside a rum-spiked slushy. It's a recipe made for two and you'll definitely want to share this one because its flavor is extraordinary.
Where many frozen cocktails feature a single fruit or maybe a pair, this one packs it in with passion fruit, peach, strawberry, and apple. It tops all that with the spicy zing of freshly grated ginger, then backs it up with your favorite rum. It may take a little time to wash and cut all the fruits, but the end result is worth every minute!
Ingredients 1 cup ice (crushed) 2 peaches (ripe, pitted and roughly chopped) 4 strawberries (sliced) 2 passion fruit (flesh and seeds) 2 teaspoons ginger (fresh, grated) 3 ounces rum 4 ounces apple juice (cloudy) 1 tablespoon superfine sugar Garnish: apple fans
Gather the ingredients. In a blender, add the ice and all of the fresh produce. Blend quickly to chop and combine. Add the rum, apple juice, and sugar and blend until smooth and well-mixed. Pour the mix equally into two highball glasses. Garnish with an apple fan. Serve and enjoy! 11
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Give your old vehicle a makeover If you're at home with time to work on a project, one of the things you can do is give your vehicle an updated look. The automotive aftermarket offers a variety of special products and accessories that will enable you to transform the appearance of any vehicle quickly, easily and affordably. According to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), thousands of specialty parts are available that can give an older vehicle a completely new appearance. Whether your goal is to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece or simply give a vehicle a fresh new look, a few simple upgrades is all it will take. Start with the interior. Numerous products are available to update the inside of your vehicle, including aftermarket steering wheels, seat covers, instrument panels and dash kits. It's easy and inexpensive to get a new steering wheel cover, or you can spend a bit more to replace it entirely with a more sporty or luxurious one. Custom steering wheels come in a variety of shapes and styles, and are available in wood, leather or a high-tech material. Similarly, seat covers are relatively inexpensive, easy to install and are one of the most dramatic ways to impact the interior. Perhaps best of all, they come in thousands of colors and fabric combinations. Seat covers can also be ordered with emblems or logos on them. Continue with the exterior. For a new look outside the vehicle, consider a new grille, taillight surround, bumper, hitch or ground-effects kit. Wheels and tires, both of which are among the most popular vehicle accessories, instantly update the look of a car or truck. Prices, styles and finishes vary greatly. Go high-tech. If your vehicle is a few years old, consider modernizing it with electronics. Bluetooth-enabled devices, including navigation, video and audio systems, can be installed in just about any car or truck, regardless of its age. Have good clean fun. Don't underestimate the impact that a good cleaning can have on a vehicle. Wax and car care science is constantly evolving, allowing for a restoring program for almost any type of finish. Car care companies even offer special polishing tools that make giving your vehicle a professional facelift easy.
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Add some color. If your paint is damaged and in need of a touch-up, automotive paint companies offer a robust color palette that makes color treatments a cinch. Another option is to go with a wrap, which will give your vehicle a newpaint look. Wraps come on rolls in a variety of colors and patterns, and when properly applied it does not damage the original surface of the car. In the future if you decide to change it, you can simply peel it off and lay on a different wrap. The installation of many types of restyling parts is designed to be simple and can often be handled by anyone who approaches the job with reasonable care. But for best results, more involved makeovers - including those that require paint or bodywork or replacing components that have safety-related features, such as seat assemblies - should be done by professionals who have the tools and experience for that kind of work. SEMA represents the $44.6 billion specialty automotive industry, which provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. In addition to offering market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, SEMA helps businesses manage product data, such as weights and measures, descriptions, pricing, and UPC codes or application data, through its SEMA Data Co-op program. To learn more about SEMA Data Co-op, log on to www.semadatacoop.org.
Seniors with diabetes: Important questions to ask your doctor now If you're a senior with diabetes, you're not alone. The statistics are eye opening - more than 25% of Americans age 65 and older have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. What's more, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports diabetes as the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S.
patients the ability to share glucose information with up to 10 people who can view it through a separate Follow app. 2) How can I be more active? Regular exercise is important for everyone, but it's particularly important for people with diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, your cells become more sensitive to insulin when you're active, so it works more effectively. Being active
If you're a senior and have diabetes or help care for a loved one with diabetes, you probably have a lot of questions. Thankfully, technology has advanced incredibly over the last decade, and can now change how people manage diabetes for the better.
helps manage a healthy weight, which is also important. Building a strong relationship with your doctor is one of the best things you can do to help manage your diabetes and stay healthy. Be sure to keep an open dialogue and come with questions before any appointments. To get you started, here are three important questions you should ask your doctor. 1) What is continuous glucose monitoring and how can it help me? People with diabetes who take insulin must monitor their blood glucose levels frequently. Uncontrolled glucose can cause health complications and even death. The traditional standard-of-care for glucose monitoring has been a blood glucose meter, which is painful and time consuming, as patients must test their blood multiple times throughout the day. A continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system can help people with either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes to track glucose levels on a continuous basis. Unlike blood glucose meters, CGMs can help eliminate painful fingerpricks and provide vital health information. CGMs are discreet, easy to use and relay a user's glucose levels instantly to a compatible smart device or dedicated receiver, providing the direction and rate of glucose change with the touch or scan of a screen. They can help you understand the impact of physical activity and certain foods on your health and glucose levels, as well. The Dexcom G6 CGM, which is reimbursed by Medicare for eligible patients, also has an app option that gives
You may think that due to your age or physical ability you can't exercise, but talking to a physician can reveal options that fit your personal needs. Slow walks, stretching, yoga and even swimming are good, lowimpact activities. Check community centers and local gyms for classes that are geared toward seniors. When beginning an exercise regimen, talk to your doctor to discuss any concerns you have and get his or her recommendations on what will work best for you in order to exercise in a safe manner. 3) How can I eat healthier? Following a nutrition plan is an important part of managing diabetes. Patients with diabetes have extra nutritional considerations to keep insulin levels in check. Doctors can provide insight into healthy eating and explain how carbohydrates impact blood glucose levels. You can also consider speaking with a registered dietitian to help you evaluate your eating habits and create a nutrition plan with foods you enjoy that are also complementary to a healthy diabetes lifestyle. Let these questions help guide you to a productive conversation about diabetes with your doctors and other members of your health care team. To learn more about the Dexcom G6 real-time CGM, visit www.dexcom.com/continuous-glucose-monitoring. 13
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What comes to mind when you read this title? For me it full of memories that come rushing back. My earliest memories are of me in my crib, watching my mom wallpapering my bedroom with CLOWNS. OMG, didn’t she read anything about how clowns scare kids? I cried a lot that first six months until she replaced it with birds and streams of water wallpaper. Whew. That was close. I have fond memories of my mom throwing a birthday party for me every year. She and I were born on the same day. She would always bake me a cake in a form pan and invite all the neighbor kids. It was a lot of fun.
I remember my first day of school and how scary it felt to leave her at the doorway. But I loved being there and meeting new people. Some of whom I’m still friends with to this day though it’s been over 60 years. Going off on my own was tempered by her love and the knowledge she would always be there if I needed to talk. And did I ever! Mom’s been gone since the late 80s but my sister and I still talk by email and telephone (sometimes). She lives in Arizona with her grown children and their families. She has vivid memories of her own growing up. Thanks mom for a great beginning to life!
Here’s a picture of our Goddaughter Alex and her mom Debra with a great big kiss. That was taken when she was about three. Now, however she’s in her second year of College at Christopher Newport. How time flies. Over the years they would make the journey from Roanoke where they live to our home in Virginia Beach for a visit. Sometimes for the holidays and sometimes just to spend time with us and go to the beach. We watched her grow and grow and it seemed like six inches at a time. Now she’s taller than her mom, than her Godmother and is a beautiful young woman with lots ahead in her future. We’re so excited to be a part of her history.
Some things we take with a grain of sand and some things move so quickly we almost forget what’s important in life. Andrea and I wish all the moms, grand moms and care givers the most cherished of Mother’s Day. If your mom is still with you, make sure she knows how much you appreciate her, how much you love her and how much she has meant to your life. Remember, without her, there could be no you. Hugs and kisses all around. Happy Mother’s Day to all the Moms!!!
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Best cost-effective tech products that simplify your life One of the best things about technology today is that there's a huge variety of items to choose from that can add convenience and fun to your life, for a surprising range of prices. From the practical to the just-for-fun, shopping for the latest in tech does not have to be complicated. Here are some items to look for this year that can help simplify your everyday life. For music lovers: Who wouldn't want to listen to their favorite music not only anywhere in the house, but also while in the yard, hiking or camping? The latest wireless speakers offer lots of choices in terms of size and portability, at a variety of price points. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are standard for most devices to connect to your phone, tablet, laptop or TV. Wireless speakers are great for boosting music for a party or listening while taking a bath or cooking. Some can clip on a backpack or be worn on your arm. That way you can listen to music on-the-go safely. Check out the latest wireless headphones, which many find more comfortable and with a superior sound quality than earbuds. Recent models have come down in price, and there are brands for kids. For gamers: Avid online gamers love quality wireless gaming headsets. Players competing against others can communicate and experience good quality sound - hearing the game and players clearly without bothering everyone in the house. Other great options are top-notch wireless controllers for gaming consoles, or a specialized gaming mouse.
like access to telemedicine, pharmacy savings, roadside assistance and more? ROKiT Phones offers five models, available with a variety of life services, a package providing essential basic necessities free for three months (with the option to continue the desired benefits after that time for a fee). Options include Telemedicine, offering access 24 hours a day, seven days a week to doctors, pharmacy savings up to 70%, free calling, roadside assistance, family legal services, ID theft protection, accidental death insurance, burial and cremation insurance. While the ROKiT One and F-One phones provide 3G service at affordable prices, the iO 3D and iO Pro 3D models offer even more - including glasses-free 3D technology that plays stereoscopic side-by-side videos, so the movies jump out of the screen for immersive enjoyment. For more information about the innovative new technology, visit RokitPhones.com/us/phones/iopro3d. With all their smartphones, ROKiT Talk ensures users can connect with loved ones worldwide. The international and domestic calling platform enables unlimited outbound domestic and international calls to 60 countries. When looking for tech-related devices that can help simplify life situations, consider all the possibilities this year. The latest high-tech devices not only make life more fun and interesting, but some can even help people stay connected, as well as offering vital services everybody needs.
For everyone: What if there were a high-quality smartphone that also offered helpful life services, 17
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3 ways a deck can make staying home more enjoyable With so many people across the country staying put in their homes right now, a fun and functional outdoor space is more important than ever. Amusement parks and concerts are closed or canceled and spring is around the corner, beckoning families outdoors. Millions of people are working remotely and looking for a more natural option for their home offices. A wellthought-out deck could be the answer to making a staycation, whether forced or planned, more enjoyable. Here are three ways a deck can improve the at-home experience. 1. Fewer screens, more fun When kids are out of school, screen time usually goes up. Whether it's TV, computers, video games, phones or tablets, screen time is usually a sedentary activity. A deck can provide an alternative outdoor play space where kids can be active and stretch their imaginations, enjoy the outdoors and do things like bring their favorite toys like building blocks, action figures or doll houses outdoors. Worried about splinters hurting those little toes and fingers? Composite decking is a beautiful option that makes sanding, staining, sealing and splinters a thing of the past. While composite decking has historically had a higher price tag than traditional wood, boards like Envision Ridge Premium deliver the exotic hardwood beauty and low maintenance of composites at a budgetfriendly price. 2. Home office with a side of vitamin D Millions of Americans have moved to work-from-home situations recently and are looking for a way to get out of their stuffy home offices in favor of a workspace with natural lighting and a great breeze. Soaking up a safe amount of sun every day can reap big benefits for your health, according to physicians and the World Health Organization (WHO), including elevating mood, improving sleep, promoting bone growth and strengthening the immune system.
of the sun's rays. Choose a table of the appropriate height and a comfortable chair for extended work sessions, or a cushioned chaise lounge for shorter periods. Adding a screen or pergola to a deck can provide some protection from the wind (fewer important work papers blowing around). 3. Family time all year long If there's an upside to the increase in people staying home, it's the ability to connect with the other people living in your home. Life can get so busy with work, friends and other commitments that it's difficult to find time to connect or have a family game night. A deck is a great place to gather the members of your household for a laid-back evening of stargazing or a rowdy game night. And those family connections don't have to end due to summer's heat or fall's chill. By adding an outdoor heater, firepit or fans, you can extend your deck's use as a family space to the majority of the year. As you can see, a deck is a great way to expand the living space of your home and to provide an alternative space for all members of the family to enjoy.
With the right patio furniture, a deck can make a great option for an outdoor workspace to soak up the benefits 19
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Spring cleaning for spring allergies: 6 steps from the experts As days grow longer and new blooms appear, it can only mean one thing: Spring is here and with it comes the task of spring cleaning. For people with allergies, spring cleaning does more than spruce up a home. When done correctly, it removes dust, mold, dander and other allergy triggers so you can feel your best. "There are specific things you can do while cleaning that can dramatically improve allergy symptoms," says Dr. J. Allen Meadows, allergist and president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. "When you spring clean to remove allergens, you can breathe easier plus enjoy a sparkling home."
temperature kills dust mites and effectively removes allergens. If bedding can't be washed at this hot temperature, place items in the dryer for at least 15 minutes at 130 degrees or above. For children with allergies, do the same with their stuffed animals. Step 5: Replace air filters: At the start of every season change the air filter in your furnace. This helps the HVAC system run efficiently while also filtering out air particles -including allergens - to keep your home's air as clean as possible. Consider setting an alarm for every three months as a reminder and use filters with a MERV
Meadows and the experts at ACAAI recommend these steps when cleaning for allergies. Before you begin, keep in mind that when you clean you come in contact with many allergens. You may want to take allergy medication beforehand and if your allergy is severe, consider wearing an N95 filter mask while dusting or scrubbing. Step 1: Dust thoroughly: Dust all surfaces in your home with a damp rag or microfiber cloth made for cleaning. Avoid using any kind of duster that simply kicks dust into the air. Additionally, clean vents and return registers to limit dust recirculating and finish by wet mopping tile and other hard flooring. Don't neglect the area under the beds, which can get dusty and should be cleaned often. Eliminating dust helps your home shine and also removes some of the most notorious indoor allergy triggers. Step 2: Clean carpets: Start by moving all furniture off the carpet. Then vacuum well with a cyclonic vacuum, which spins dust and dirt away from the floor, or a vacuum with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter. Meadows does not advise shampooing carpet, because it can cause dust mite eggs to hatch. If you are using diluted bleach and water solution for spot treatments or to kill mold, make sure someone other than the allergy sufferer does the cleaning because bleach can trigger asthma. Step 3: Clean window treatments: Window treatments like curtains and valances can be a magnet for dust and pollen yet are often ignored when it comes to cleaning. This spring, make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and wash or dry clean window treatments. Remember, opening windows allows pollen and other allergens into your home, so during peak allergy season keep them closed, and whenever possible, use air conditioning in your car and home. Step 4: Wash bedding: Wash sheets, pillowcases and blankets in water that is at least 130 degrees F. This 20
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rating of 11 or 12. This is also a good time to clean the drip pans in appliances like the refrigerator. Step 6. Control humidity: Bathrooms, basements and tiled spaces are prone to mold, so spring is a good time to deep clean. A bleach cleaner works well to eliminate mold or make your own by mixing borax and water. Next, help prevent mold from developing through moisture control. Always run bathroom fans when bathing or showering, clean up any standing water immediately and use a dehumidifier if needed to keep humidity below 60%. "Spring cleaning is a great step in allergy control," says Meadows. "However, if you continue to suffer from allergy or asthma symptoms, see a board-certified allergist to help you control your symptoms and live the life you want. You can find an allergist near you at acaai.org/locate-an-allergist."
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MAY 2020
Every glam-inspired yard needs a pop of showstopping color that is eye-catching and brings style to the space. This summer, those looking to brighten their shady outdoor spaces can turn to Beacon® Impatiens to dress their garden beds and containers with boldly colored flowers that thrive all season long. Gardeners can plant Beacon® Impatiens to their heart's content without the frustration, or fear, of Impatiens downy mildew, a destructive disease that has plagued impatiens, causing plant loss and devastation to shade gardens across the globe. This new plant from PanAmerican Seed offers high resistance to Impatiens downy mildew, ensuring a long-lasting, healthy garden this summer. Here's a look at how you can style your outdoor space in the shade this season with new Beacon® Impatiens. Go bold with colorOn music's biggest night, acclaimed botanical artist Tu Bloom Designs® selected Beacon® Impatiens to bring vivid color to this year's red carpet. As the music industry's elite made their grand entrance and strutted for the cameras, they were surrounded by Tu Bloom's 22 topiaries of Beacon® White Impatiens atop a lavish carpet of Beacon® Red Impatiens. Thanks to Beacon® Impatiens versatility and reliable color, first-time and established gardeners alike can recreate this inspiring red carpet look in their own yards. The most memorable looks on the red carpet never shy away from color, and Beacon® Impatiens offers a full palette of different shades to help create a similar, striking look to brighten and adorn your yard or patio. Choose from a variety of shades including
Were you born
bright red, violet, salmon, coral, orange and white. For a more textured look, the plants also come in mixed combinations, allowing gardeners to create their own floral masterpiece. To embrace the red carpet look, search for a shady spot in your yard or patio and plant Beacon® Impatiens in the hue of your choice. Whether in a hanging basket, window box or patio container, you can create a foundation of bold, lasting color. Beacon® shines the lightAs well as being a red carpet-worthy upgrade for your outdoor space, you'll also help make the world a better place. In the spirit of bringing light and happiness to gardens everywhere, PanAmerican Seed donates 3% of its global Beacon® Impatiens seed sales to a charitable organization every year. The company prides itself on selecting a cause that isn't as widely known, and for the 2020 garden season, the donation is going to the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation.
in May?
Practical and well-grounded, Taurus is the sign that harvests the fruits of labor. They feel the need to always be surrounded by love and beauty, turned to the material world, hedonism, and physical pleasures. People born with their Sun in Taurus are sensual and tactile, considering touch and taste the most important of all senses. Stable and conservative, this is one of the most reliable signs of the zodiac, ready to endure and stick to their choices until they reach the point of personal satisfaction. Strengths: Reliable, patient, practical, devoted, responsible, stable Weaknesses: Stubborn, possessive, uncompromising Taurus likes: Gardening, cooking, music, romance, high quality clothes, working with hands Taurus dislikes: Sudden changes, complications, insecurity of any kind, synthetic fabrics 22
MAY 2020
Caregiving and COVID-19: Tips for people with vulnerable family members COVID-19 has dramatically shifted daily life for many people around the world. Nobody is immune, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions are at higher risk of getting very sick from the Coronavirus. To protect vulnerable individuals, many nursing homes or assisted living facilities are banning outside visitors temporarily in hopes of limiting residents' exposure to someone who may be infected with the virus. Additionally, many individuals who need care and are currently living in their own homes are feeling isolated and anxious about how to stay healthy and safe.
are upcoming nonemergency, routine medical appointments, reschedule those or, if possible, switch to a virtual visit to receive telemedicine.
Caregiving is now taking center stage. With already more than 40 million unpaid family caregivers helping loved ones in the U.S., experts expect the virus to increase the number of people providing short-term or long-term care to an older or aging loved one.
Ask your pharmacist or health care provider if you're able to have an extra 30-day supply of essential medications on hand. Don't forget to stock up on over-the-counter medications like cough suppressants and fever-reducing drugs like acetaminophen.
AARP offers guidance to family caregivers with vulnerable family members, especially those who might be new to caregiving because of Coronavirus and its impacts on older populations.
Stay connected: With current social distancing recommendations, strict isolation will impact many older individuals. To keep connections strong, set up communication using a variety of technology such as FaceTime or Skype, smart speakers, or simply phone and text. Use these to stay connected with your caregiving team as well as your older or aging family members.
Make it a team effort: While there may be one primary family caregiver, identify other family members, friends and neighbors who can check in or help with shopping and important errands. It's important that the person you're caring for doesn't leave their home and stays out of public places. Create a list with contact information of friends, family and services in your community that can help you perform key caregiving tasks. For example, find out if services such as Meals on Wheels can help deliver meals, or if there are other local services to help with food or medication delivery. Inventory essential items: It's important to figure out what you have so you can determine what you need. Inventory how much food, medication and basic supplies the person you're caring for has currently. Then make a list of what you need and how often you need to replenish it. Many older individuals often keep minimal extras on hand because they are on a strict budget and are used to regular grocery or medication refills. If possible, help them have a two-week supply of food, water, house cleaning supplies, and medical equipment. Get medications in order: If you don't already have one, create a list of medications, medical contacts, and important information like allergies for easy access. If there
If your loved one lives in a long-term care facility, see if they have accommodations for online visits and how they plan to communicate with families. If they can't support visits via technology, send in cards, letters, magazines, puzzles or other items you know your loved one would be grateful to receive. Talk with your facility management about the safest way to deliver items. Maintain personal safety and self-care: In order to help slow the spread of Coronavirus, limit physical contact with others, stay in as much as you can and continue to follow guidelines from the CDC. While you are likely very focused on the person you're caring for, it is essential to also care for yourself. For high-risk individuals, such as those with dementia and underlying health conditions, consider having the primary caregiver self-isolate with the care recipient. Then, have a back-up plan if the primary caregiver becomes ill. It's best to be proactive and not have to use plan B, rather than being caught off guard without options. For more information about caregiving and important considerations in light of COVID-19, visit aarp.org/caregiving and aarp.org/coronavirus.