Celebrating 17 Years Village News Staff Welcome to the October edition of Village News Magazine. Starting with the end of the month, this is the time for ghosts and goblins to come out for Halloween. Problem is, the pandemic. Will children across the land be allowed to trick-ortreat this year? We’ll have to wait and see what the governor says. My guess is... NO. There is some real promise of a vaccine on the horizon. Let’s hope it once and forever eradicates Covid. In the meantime, please social distance, wear the mask and be a good neighbor. We’ll all be better for doing this Let’s look at the month. The 1st of October is National Coffee Day. That cup of Joe will start your day. The 4th of October is National Taco Day. Oh yum. Part of my healthy diet are those delicious Tacos. The 10th of this month is World Mental Health day. Something we should pay much more attention to and help wherever possible. The 12th of this month is Columbus Day. Another national holiday and a long weekend for those that work (for the most part). The 13th is an interesting day. It’s No Bra Day. Humm! The 16th is Boss’s Day. Give that guy/gal a good celebration. Without their direction where would we be? The 26th of this month is National Pumpkin Day. Guy them, carve them and get them ready for Halloween. As mentioned earlier in this note, the 31st is Halloween. A long standing tradition of exchanging niceness for candy. If the kids don’t get to go out, make sure you buy them candy and hide it around the house. Make a game of it.
Peter Cousin Editor-in-Chief Peter@InsitePublishing.com 757-641-3784 Tara Perrone Lead Graphic Designer Tara@InsitePublishing.com 757-641-3784 Sherry Wood Marketing Director Sherry@InsitePublishing.com 757-641-3784 Shannon Brown Business Development Shannon@InsitePublishing.com 757-641-3784 LaRay Cooper Business Development LaRay@InsitePublishing.com 757-641-3784 Sarah Messinger Business Development Sarah@InsitePublishing.com 757-641-3784 Pam Monahan Contributing Editor Pammonahan551@yahoo.com 757-301-9887 David Cando IT Department Dcando@Gmail.com 757-497-1620
Whatever you do this month, we hope you enjoy reading Village News!
Golf Golf Tips Tips 5 Golf Tips
Education Education 3 9 4 23 12 27
OMy! Goat Milk Soap Special THE ART CORNER Fashion Trends Computer Mandate VBSPCA - Black Cats Your September 2020 Horoscope
FEATURE FEATURE 7 Come visit European Wax Center
Neighborhood Neighborhood News News 13 Natural Virginia Beach 26 Smarter Way to Buy A House
Culture Culture
6 Gourmet SELECTS:
11 COCKTAILS On The House: Pumpkin Toddy
Humor
11 Golf Humor
16-17 SPECIAL- Attention Village News Readers 3V
October 2020
The end of summer, to me, has always been one of the most exciting times of the year. Soaking up the final days of blissful sunshine and bikini-wearing temperatures always feels nostalgic, and the first taste of the feeling of fall in the air is like the start of a whole new beginning. In Chicago, the weather has already blessed us with a few 60something degree days, and with my windows open, a fall candle lit, and Folklore playing on my speaker, I realized just how ready I am for fall 2020.
Not all premium denim comes with premium sticker shock. Meet Blank Denim, a brand that offers impulse price points for the fast-fashion obsessed. Launched in 2007 by Emmy Lauridsen and Leigh Brown, their Blank jeans feature clean pockets and upscale styling, while maintaining a downtown edge that lends attitude to sophistication. Best of all, Blank jeans have the spot-on fit you'd expect from the coolest kids on denim's block. Blank is denim done right. Join the Blank revolution.
The Line & Dot clothing philosophy is one of simplicity and femininity. A collection of graceful pieces made with thoughtful attention to detail, these easy-to-style dresses, skirts, tops, and jackets project a modern aesthetic in figure-flattering lines and soft, luxe fabrics. Line & Dot is headquartered in California and cultivates an inventive, evolving look, incorporating European design elements and subtle on-trend statements for the fashion savvy.
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October 2020
Helpful Tips for Summer Golf It does not matter who you are or how old you are, you can easily learn how to play golf. Golf seems difficult to many people, but if you follow a few extremely useful golfing tips and tricks, you too can play one of the most enjoyable games in the world. TIP ONE: To have a great golf swing, you need to combine several things first. Your body though, is what provides the real power in the swing. If you can fully understand this, then you can have a powerful swing as well. You need to use your body as the main source of power when you swing, and not your arms, as many golfers do. TIP TWO: Focusing on your knees during your swing will maintain the proper power and balance throughout the swing. It happens easily that your knees come closer together while you shift and
rotate during the swing. Keeping the distance between your knees consistent while swinging, will generate more power, improve accuracy, and your balance will improve too. TIP THREE: It is important to remember that each golf club is designed with a specific loft, and you should not fight it, but use it. Allow the loft of each club to do the work for you. When you hit a golf ball, you have to hit down on it and through it as well, which will allow the club to lift the ball naturally. TIP FOUR: To find the sweet spot on each of your golf clubs, you need to practice a lot until you manage to strike the golf ball right at the base of your swing’s arc. You will feel a clear difference when you strike the ball in the sweet spot, and it will be noticeable in the distance of your shots as well.
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Ingredients 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast about 2 large 2 cups mushrooms cut in half 1 clove garlic minced 3 sprigs thyme 1 1/2 cups dry white wine 1/2 cup seasoned flour 2 tbs butter 2 tbs olive oil 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/3 cup shredded asiago cheese 1/2 tsp salt or to taste 1/4 tsp pepper or to taste Seasoned Flour: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper Instructions Pound chicken breast with a meat mallet between 2 sheets of waxed paper or plastic wrap until meat is uniform thickness; about 1/4-inch. Cut into serving-sized pieces (2 or 3 pieces per breast) Heat the butter with *1* tbs of olive oil in deep, heavy skillet or saute pan over medium heat. Dredge chicken in seasoned flour. Add to hot oil/butter in skillet. Saute until golden on each side, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pan. Add remaining olive oil to hot skillet. Saute mushrooms and garlic until mushrooms begin to brown. Add white wine to skillet, scraping up all the browned bits that are at the bottom of the pan (this is called “deglazing”). Bruise the fresh thyme by twisting it between your fingers or hitting it with the dull side of a knife in a few places. Add thyme to mushroom/wine mixture in pan. Add the chicken back to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Remove chicken from pan. Add the cream and heat through. Add the asiago cheese (if you like it strongly flavored, use 1/2 cup; not as strongly flavored, use the 1/4 cup–asiago is a powerful cheese and you can even use less for just a whisper of flavor. I like it strong so I used 1/2 cup). Cook, stirring constantly over low heat until cheese melts. Continue cooking until sauce is reduced by about 1/2. If you wish to skip the reduction step, you may thicken the sauce slightly with about 1 tbs instant flour or 1 tbs cornstarch mixed with 2 tbs water…however, the reduction will taste better. Add chicken back to pan and heat through. Garnish with sprigs of fresh thyme. May be served over any pasta.
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Dinner Good Enough to EAT! Not sure how to make it or what goes in it? No problem!
Remember you eat with your eyes first You should enjoy the food you eat.
Here, Village News Shows You How.
Hello... Gorgeous! (757) 938-3555 VIRGINIA BEACH - HILLTOP PLAZA 1725 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 European Wax Center at Hilltop plaza has been so well received by the community that
We are excited to announce our future European Wax Center scheduled to open in Town Center at 4485 Virginia Beach Blvd., Virginia Beach, 33462 in the Columbus Town Center shopping center around the beginning of November! While it has been an unusual challenge to do business during this Global pandemic, we at European Wax Center do find that the high standards for hygienic practices that we have always had in place has lead to adding only a few changes to our hourly, daily and weekly routines to comply and exceed local, State and CDC guidlines. Those baseline practices are the reason we are the leader in our industry. The additional precautions, due to the Covid19 virus, of closing our lobby to walk in guests, contactless check in system, mandatory mask wearing (and shields for eyebrow services) for Associates and masks for all guests in addition to practicing social distancing will assure all a safe and comfortable experience in all of our Centers. So our excitement for growing our brand to have Town Center join our existing family of Centers in Newport News, Chesapeake and Hilltop Plaza in Virginia Beach is a result of the trust all of our guests have put in us to keep them safe while providing them the ultimate European Wax Center Experience. A very special thank you to all of our valued guests and to the hard working Associates who provide the outstanding customer service we are committed to providing each and every guest! We look forward to meeting you at one of our Centers soon for a complimentary first time service (eyebrow, underarm or bikini line for women and an eyebrow, ear or underarm for men) to see what all the rave is about! First Time Guest?
Let us treat you to a free wax!
We can’t wait to see YOU!
COMING SOON!
Currently constructing a new center in Town Center that should be opening around the beginning of November
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The Old Guitarist Painting by Pablo Picasso The Old Guitarist is an oil painting by Pablo Picasso created in late 1903 and early 1904. It depicts an elderly musician, a blind, haggard man with threadbare clothing, weakly hunched over his guitar while playing in the streets of Barcelona, Spain. Why was Pablo Picasso important? Pablo Picasso was one of the foremost and persuasive artists of the 1st half of the 20th century. Primarily associated with pioneering a movement known as Cubism, he also made major contributions to surrealism, symbolism and a range of other classical styles that persisted during the 1920s. Unlike many other painters of his time, Picasso possessed an eclectic attitude to style, although his works were often typified by a single and dominant approach, that allowed him to easily interchange on style for another, sometimes even in the same piece. It is perhaps this ability to switch style that allowed him to maintain his longevity in the industry. Even though artists came and went throughout Picasso’s existence, he managed to remain relevant and active in art circles until the end of his life that occurred in 1973. Do you have a favorite painting you would like to exhibit here next month? Send us the name with the artist to ARTCORNER@VillageNewsVA.com. We will do our best to present to our fellow readers and art enthusiasts.
This page available for sponsorship. Inquire at 757-301-9617 9
October 2020
Financial expert reveals top grocery store savings tips Now more than ever, parents are struggling to provide for their families during these uncertain and challenging times. A recent survey conducted by the Brookings Institution finds 1 in 5 young children in the U.S. are not getting enough food during this pandemic, and food insecurity is rising at an unprecedented rate.
level and typically have higher prices than less-known name brands or store-brand alternatives. Your best bet is to look at the higher and lower shelves, as that's where the most cost-effective products are located. A little effort to look beyond eye level will reward you with a lower grocery bill.
Fortunately, financial expert and author Tonya Rapley has a few savvy tips to help families tweak their grocerystore routine to reduce spending:
Choose store-brand infant formula
Cut out convenience costs When shopping for foods such as meat, fruits and vegetables, you pay a premium for pre-cut and specialty items. Although it can seem tempting to grab pre-cut ingredients like chicken breasts to incorporate into family meals, purchasing the whole chicken can offer multiple meal opportunities while reducing costs. Same goes for produce, such as chopped fruit, trimmed veggies and prepacked foods like salads and sandwiches. You'll save a lot and likely get more food by doing the prep work at home.
For parents with infants at home, switching to storebrand infant formula can cut costs by up to 50%, resulting in $900 in annual savings. Store-brand infant formulas offer the same complete nutrition and meet the same FDA standards as big-name brands, making them a safe, smart choice for families. Faced with financial stress, some parents may be tempted to make homemade formula or add extra water to stretch formula to save money. These actions can have a harmful effect on baby, so keep an eye out for a store-brand alternative at the grocery store instead to ensure your infant is obtaining the essential nutrients he or she needs to grow and stay healthy. Learn more at www.storebrandformula.com.
Try a flexitarian diet
Use coupons and shop the sales
Meat is often the most expensive item in a family's shopping cart. By experimenting with a flexitarian diet, you can cut down on grocery spending and instill healthy eating habits in children. By making a meatless meal a couple of times a week, parents can introduce a variety of foods and ingredients to their kids that will expand their taste preferences. You can start simple by skipping meatballs on spaghetti night or using beans instead of meat on taco Tuesday. Then get kids involved in trying new recipes together and expand your meatless dish collection.
When you enter a store, pick up the weekly flyer if one is available and flip through the coupons and sales. This can help you save money on the items on your list. As you shop, watch for shelf advertisements for sales or bargains like buy one get one free (BOGO). Keep in mind, grocery stores often advertise savings based on multiple purchases. For example, save $3 on two. Unless it specifically states you must buy two to earn the savings, you can still save money when you just buy one item.
Keep your head up, then down when scanning shelves The most popularly marketed foods are stored at eye 10
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Smart grocery shopping can help you save during the pandemic and at any time. Your family will get the food they enjoy, and you get to stay on budget, perhaps with a little extra to put into savings.
Ingredients 1 ounce Laird's bonded apple brandy 1/2 ounce Rittenhouse rye whiskey 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice 1/2 ounce Deep Mountain Grade B maple syrup 1 tsp Libby's pumpkin purĂŠe 2 dashes Angostura bitters 1/2 ounce boiling water Garnish: grated cinnamons Add all the ingredients except the water to a preheated mug and stir to combine. Top with 5 oz boiling water and stir. Garnish with grated cinnamon.
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October 2020
2020 Combo Associate Memberships ALL of 2020 for the low price of $299 or $29 per month* (Limited Combo Associate $199 year/$19 per month Includes Heron Ridge, VB National & Riverfront Golf Courses Call For Details (757)426-3800
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October 2020
By Pam Monahan
The Green Heron is an elusive bird and I guess it is for that reason that I really enjoy them when encountered. This small heron is solitary at most seasons and often somewhat secretive, living around small bodies of water or densely vegetated areas. Seen in the open, it often flicks its tail nervously, raises and lowers its crest. The "green" on this bird's back is an iridescent color, and often looks dull bluish or simply dark. It is a beautiful bird. So, when I found the nest of this species, it was truly special for me. Green Heron nests are notoriously difficult to find. The nest site is usually in shrub or tree 5-30' above ground, but sometimes on ground; often very close to water but can be quite distant. The nest is a platform of sticks; the male begins construction, then female builds while male brings materials. This particular nest was in a mimosa tree, over a small, local pond in a residential neighborhood. When I found the nest, it was already complete. One of the pair appeared to be incubating eggs or perhaps brooding chicks. It rose nervously at my approach, so I stopped and froze in place. It settled back down on the nest. I retreated back a few steps and got behind a tree to take a few photos. A second heron came in with a stick and the one on the nest accepted it and placed it. How sweet! I left.
It was another week before I returned. When I got back, the babies were scrunched down in the nest. Neither parent was visible, so I slowly edged closer with my camera. Young baby birds have generally not yet developed a fear of humans, but I am careful anyway. I stopped suddenly when I heard an adult’s loud, unmistakable call: “ S KE O W!” W The heron landed almost directly above me and called to the chicks, “cuk, cuk.” The chicks recognized their parent and started begging, “tik, tik, tik, tik.” They stood up and I counted four of them. I raised my camera. The adult landed beside the nest and it was just a mass of feathers and curious sounds as the chicks were fed. It was over in about 30 seconds. The adult flew and the chicks immediately settled down into the nest. There was such a mass of branches and leaves obscuring the view that I only got a couple of photos of this incredible experience. But I will treasure them. I am happy to report that all four of these Green Heron chicks successfully fledged the nest and are now on their own. They will be heading South for the winter, as do many migratory birds. Godspeed.
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How to stay safe during home DIY projects Quarantine and social distancing means spending more time at home. This has inspired renewed interest in home improvement and DIY projects. While warmweather months are ideal for many projects, they also can bring high temperatures and dangerous heat. Heat-related illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, sunburn and heat rash. In extreme cases, overexposure to heat can cause death. According to the National Weather Service, heat causes the greatest number of weather-related injuries each year. In fact, an average of 138 people have died annually due to heat over the last 30 years.
Take breaks and hydrate Sometimes you get so focused on a project you don't realize you have not hydrated enough or have pushed yourself too far until it's too late and you feel sick. That's why prioritizing regular breaks is essential. Consider a work/rest schedule. For example, when doing moderate work at 100 degrees, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends you should work for 45 minutes and then take a 15-minute break. Use this time to drink extra water to stay hydrated. Above all, always listen to your body. If you feel dizzy or sick, don't wait to take a break.
In addition to making a supply list, gathering tools and researching steps to ensure your project is a success, be sure to take heat safety measures as well. Here are some tips for staying safe and cool while tackling home improvements in hot conditions: Be sun smart Being in direct sunlight not only heats your body faster due to solar radiation, but it's a risk for sunburn. When working on projects, choosing a shaded spot is optimal. If starting in the early morning, be sure to account for sun position within your working time. Set up umbrellas and other coverings ahead of getting started so you won't be tempted to work through the hot overhead sun. Additionally, remember to wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and to reapply every few hours. Choosing light, airy cotton clothing that covers the arms and legs is an easy way to protect from the sun and keep you cooler. Use portable evaporative coolers Outdoor spaces like patios, decks, garages or sheds can get extremely hot when you're just relaxing, let alone working on projects. To stay cool outdoors, consider a Portacool portable evaporative cooler that generates cooling relief by using water and the ambient air to provide cooling through natural evaporation. This evaporation is akin to the cooling sensation you feel when you get out of a pool. It works where traditional air conditioning cannot, especially outdoors, on patios or in spaces with open doors such as garages, sheds and barns. These energy efficient coolers can cool spaces ranging from 300 to 4,250 square feet. Learn more at portacool.com.
Check the forecast Before diving into a project, check the weather forecast first. You want to do more than just avoid rain; you want to plan work to coincide with cooler temperatures. That may mean waiting a few days or more if there's a heat wave, but your health (and likely productivity) will benefit. In addition, check the heat index expected when you work and plan around the hottest times of the day. Try to work earlier in the morning when it's cooler and your energy is fresh. If you can't finish the project before the heat peaks, take a break and finish when the sun goes down or the next morning. It's smart to jump on the DIY wave and add important home improvements to boost your home's livability and value. While you're working hard to reach your goals, consider these heat safety steps to stay comfortable and healthy.
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October 2020
Whether due to illness, altered work schedules, homeschooling or social distancing, COVID-19 has impacted us all personally. Stress levels are high, and the resulting anxiety makes it much harder to get a good night's rest. Despite the efforts of the $70 billion sleep-aid industry, many exhausted people are still searching for ways to get the sleep they need to keep their immune systems strong. Unfortunately, sleeping pills are the dominant treatment strategy for insomnia. Sleeping pills don't work for everyone, have side effects and do not address the underlying stress that is keeping you awake. That's why medical experts are increasingly advising those struggling with poor sleep to first try more natural solutions. Kundalini Yoga is one viable option. Through the practice of kriyas, specific breath control techniques and exercises, anyone can find the fulfilling rest they need. These Kundalini Yoga techniques can help if you have recently begun to suffer from poor sleep or you struggle with an ongoing sleep disorder. According to "Yoga Can Help With Insomnia" by Psychology Today, "Researchers at Harvard Medical School investigated how a daily yoga practice might affect sleep for people with insomnia and found broad improvements to measurements of sleep quality and quantity." The importance of sleep hygiene First, it's critical to maintain good sleep hygiene. These are the habits that put you in the best position to have a full night of quality sleep. Signs your sleep could use improvement include taking too long to fall asleep, waking multiple times with difficulty falling back asleep, overall light and restless sleep, and drowsiness during the day. While each person must adopt consistent sleep hygiene practices that work for them, here are some guidelines that you can follow to sleep better.
can disrupt sleep. * A light snack is OK, but avoid heavy meals or spicy food before bed. * Drink a glass of water before sleep since dehydration can disturb the sleeping mind. Waking up to use the bathroom is less disruptive to a whole night's sleep than dehydration. * Practice a restful activity before getting into bed. For example, do gentle yoga and slow breathing exercises, read a book, pray or meditate. * If your nighttime sleep is poor, avoid napping during the daytime. Yogic recommendations: Steps to deep, dreamless sleep The 3HO Foundation recommends using these Kundalini Yoga techniques to quickly achieve deep sleep in just a few minutes: Step 1: A busy mind has difficulty sleeping. Quiet your thoughts by first visualizing all your worries, ideas and problems, wrapping them up in a package, then placing that package on a shelf in your mind. You'll be amazed at how many are gone, solved or improved by the time you wake up. Step 2: Lie on your stomach, turn your head so your right cheek is on the pillow. This automatically opens your left nostril to bring in cooling, calming energy. Practice long, deep breathing in this position. Then block your right nostril completely with your hand and continue long, deep breathing through the left nostril. Step 3: Once you feel drowsy, turn to your preferred sleeping position on your back or side. Continue long, deep breathing until asleep. Sleep is always an important component to health and wellness. During stressful times, quality sleep is difficult to achieve. These steps will help you refine your sleep routine and discover better rest. To learn more, visit kundaliniresearchinstitute.org.
* Avoid bright screens and stimulants like caffeine, alcohol or nicotine close to bedtime. * Exercise during the day so the body is ready to rest later. Be mindful of timing; exercising too late in the day 19
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The Computer Mandate www.ExecTechVA.net
Dear Village News Readers, This month I would like to talk to you about the overuse of your computers and the need to have them cleaned. With this pandemic going on, it has a direct impact on the use of our computers. More and more hours are being spent, surfing the net, working online and just communicating with friends and neighbors. What this does is adds to the dirt and grime that is saturating your unit’s fan and other important parts. Unless you are changing your air filters in your home or office on a regular basis, the fact that you’re spending more time on your computer is adding to the amount of dust that is accumulating inside your machine.
Whether it's a new build, remodel or update, freestanding tubs are a top trend in bathroom spaces. These showstopping centerpieces elevate the visual aesthetic of the room while adding to the overall value of the property. While in high demand, many homeowners have questions about the complexities of adding one to their home. The good news is that new options are making it easier than ever to have a freestanding tub installed in bathrooms of various shapes and sizes. Consider the Unwind collection of freestanding baths from Sterling, for example. Designed with easy installation in mind, the collection features versatile bathtubs in freestanding or back-to-wall freestanding styles that fit any bathroom space and design aesthetic. Traditional freestanding bath positioning: When most people think of freestanding bathtubs, they envision a bathroom with a luxurious tub as the focal point centered in the space. A freestanding placement leaves room around the entire tub and is a beautiful option for bathrooms with ample space. This standalone statement piece provides spa-like appeal in the bathroom. Wall-facing freestanding tub placement: A freestanding tub can be positioned along a wall as well, which is a good option for bathrooms with unique designs or moderate space restrictions. This could include an oval-shaped tub or a rectangle style that flanks more closely to the wall, helping to open up space while still providing the luxe experience of a deep soaking tub.
Solution? Make an appointment with me to come and clean out your system, check your output and make sure that everything you want to have working properly actually is. Remember the old saying, “Pay me now or pay me later?” Well it’s not all that bad. But it is a good idea to have me clean your system. Remember I’m always here for you like I’ve been for years. Call me and let’s get started! 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!”
: Corner freestanding tub positioning: Some homeowners prefer a corner placement for a freestanding bath because of the visual appeal and space-saving qualities. The Unwind Bath Collection has options for all three bathroom placements and consists of a sculptural oval bath, a crisp-edged rectangle bath, and a back-to-wall bath that is ideal for smaller spaces and offers a faucet deck and an open back, which allows for easy faucet installation. All three styles come in a 59-by-30inch model. The oval bath and back-to-wall bath also come in 67-by-32-inch models. The rectangle bath is also available in a slightly smaller 67-by-30-inch size. Easier installation options: All of the Unwind baths offer a single-piece, seamless design with a built-in integral overflow. The concealed legs can be adjusted for the ideal height for the homeowner and space. An above-floor rough-in and white toe-tap drain are included on all models.
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The smarter way to buy a home Are you considering buying a home? Are you looking for a way to buy without depleting your savings? If so, you should know there are ways to qualify for a mortgage sooner than you think and for less. Insured low down payment mortgages are affordable and safe loan options that are offered by most lenders and help homebuyers achieve this goal. A low down payment mortgage with private mortgage insurance (MI) in particular is a great time-tested option that has helped more than 1.3 million families qualify for a home sooner than they otherwise could. So, how does MI work, and how much can it really save you? The 20% down payment myth If you've been putting off buying a home in order to save up a 20% down payment, there is good news: it isn't necessary. Surprised? You are not alone. While almost 80% of homebuyers think a 20% down payment is required, the fact is the average first-time homebuyer who obtains a mortgage puts just 6% down. How is this possible? While there are several low down payment mortgage options available, conventional loans with private MI have been borrowers' preferred loan choice for a number of years. Private MI is a smart way to get into a home sooner, saving the borrower time, and potentially money, considering that home prices may move up over time, so waiting could cost the borrower more in the long run. How does an insured mortgage work? Private MI can help a borrower with much less than a 20% down payment qualify for a home loan - with the average down payment being just 6% in 2019 - and is typically paid monthly along with the mortgage payment. The benefit is not just that the borrower is able to qualify for a home sooner, but also that private MI is temporary. Unlike government-insured mortgages backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), private MI cancels after 20% equity is established either through payments or home price appreciation. When the MI is cancelled, your monthly mortgage bill goes down. When to buy a home? The right time to purchase a home is different for everyone, especially nowadays. But as we adapt to a changing world, it is important to know that MI continues to help borrowers achieve homeownership, and it is possible to benefit from historically low mortgage interest rates and buy a house without exhausting your savings. In fact, a recent report from U.S. Mortgage Insurers found that MI has helped more than 33 million families become homeowners over the past 60+ years without putting down 20%. You can find how many people in your state used private MI to purchase their home in the last year by accessing that same report. Interest rates are at an all-time low and millions of people continue to achieve the dream of homeownership thanks to private MI. To learn more about how private MI compares to other low down payment options, visit LowDownPaymentFacts.org.
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October 2020
5 car seat tips to keep your kids safe From the moment your child is born, you do everything in your power to keep them safe. Most parents and caregivers know the importance of car seats for protecting children, but it's also important to make sure you are choosing and using them correctly. Free online resources can help. Child Passenger Safety Week (Sept. 20-26) is the perfect time to brush up on these tips to help your family travel safely. 1. Always buckle up: According to the latest 2018 crash data from The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 1 in 3 children under 12 killed in car crashes were not using a car seat, booster seat or seat belt at all. For kids between the ages of 8 and 14, nearly half of those killed (45%) weren't wearing their seat belts. Always remember to check that your kids are buckled up before you start the car, especially as they get older and more independent. 2. Brush up on your car seat skills: Even if you've been buckling your child into a car seat for years, it's a good idea to periodically review the basics, making sure you aren't skipping any important safety steps. Don't rush things. Take some time to practice how to properly buckle your child, using the car seat manual as a guide.
3. Consider a virtual car seat check: Certified technicians are available across the country to help you install and use your child's car seat correctly - often at no cost to you. Many also offer virtual seat checks, allowing you to speak with an expert from your own home. Look up car seat inspection options in your community at NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat. 4. Find the right seat for your child: In addition to installing the car seat correctly, it's also important to make sure your child is in the right seat for their age and size. Check the limits on your child's car seat or booster seat to know when it's time to change the seat they are using. For maximum protection in a crash, kids should not move to the next car seat type until they exceed the height or weight limits of their current seat. 5. Get to know your vehicle: Every vehicle is different. Whether you drive a pickup truck, minivan, sedan or SUV can make a difference in how your child's car seat should be installed. Check your vehicle's manual for step-by-step guidance. You can check if your child is in the right car seat, register your car seat, and find more tips and guidance at NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat.
Were you born in October?
People born under the sign of Libra are peaceful, fair, and they hate being alone. Partnership is very important for them, as their mirror and someone giving them the ability to be the mirror themselves. These individuals are fascinated by balance and symmetry, they are in a constant chase for justice and equality, realizing through life that the only thing that should be truly important to themselves in their own inner core of personality. This is someone ready to do nearly anything to avoid conflict, keeping the peace whenever possible. The sign of Libra is an Air sign, set between Gemini and Aquarius, giving these individuals constant mental stimuli, strong intellect and a keen mind. They will be inspired by good books, insurmountable discussions and people who have a lot to say. Each Libra representative has to be careful when talking to other people, for when they are forced to decide about something that is coming their way, or to choose sides, they suddenly realize that they might be in the wrong place and surrounded by wrong people. No partner should make them forget that they have their own opinion. 27
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October 2020
Pet-friendly design tips Whether you're dreaming of a complete home remodel or a simple decor update, you may not be factoring your pets in your decision-making and overall design process. But how many times have you regretted a furniture or upholstery choice once Fido or Fluffy got their paws (and fur) on it? You can make any room look more stylish, even if you have a chronic shedder or scratcher living in your home. All it takes is a little planning and some research on the best products to stand up to your furry family members. "No matter how you want to update or refresh your home, it's best to be proactive by considering the amount of traffic, the overall purpose the room serves and what kind of wear your room will endure from people and pets," says Katie Allen, design and trend director at LL Flooring. "Then pick products and furnishings that will both look great and stand the test of time." Here are some tips for your next remodel, ensuring you and your pets will love the new space: Start with a durable base Changing up your flooring can completely transform the look of the room, but you have to remember that pets cause more wear and tear on your floors than any other element of your home. So it's best to start by choosing stain-resistant, durable and attractive flooring for a long-lasting room makeover. For example, LL Flooring, which was previously Lumber Liquidators, offers options that add beauty to your home, no matter how much traffic the rooms get: * The AquaSeal flooring line features water-resistant locking technology to help protect against accidents and other messes for up to 72 hours. The durable flooring will also stand up to heavy foot traffic, from both pets and kids, is easy to clean and offers quick click installation. * The CoreLuxe flooring options offer an enhanced wear layer that will help defend it against scratches, scuffs and stains. Its no-fuss maintenance is as attractive as its authentic hardwood looks, but unlike wood, this flooring is waterproof - wet-mopping and common household spills won't damage it. Both types of flooring come in a wide variety of colors and styles that can be seen, along with hundreds of other options, by using the Floor Finder tool on LLFlooring.com. Out of sight, out of mind 30
October 2020
If possible, try to match the color of the room's fabrics (and/or flooring) to your pet's fur color. Doing this will help hide at least some of the hair they leave behind. If you have a black dog and choose a white rug, all your time will be spent vacuuming. Multiple pets? A multicolor pattern for your upholstery or rugs can be your best friend (next to the four-legged one, that is). Choose the right materials Stain resistant, smooth-textured upholstery for your couches and chairs - such as leather or synthetic materials - work best, as they are less appealing to scratch and make it easier to deal with any pet-related messes. Slipcovers work well too, since they are machine washable, and they can cover flaws on any furniture you're not yet ready to upgrade. Discourage furniture abuse Avoid wicker and rattan furniture and accent pieces, since it can be used as a chew or scratch toy by your dog or cat. As an alternative, create a designated play area with your animal pal in mind, supplied with all the toys and comforts they need. Offering multiple scratching posts for cats is a great idea, especially if they contain catnip to attract your feline friend. Provide your animal companions with their own special beds, encouraging them to snuggle up with attention and treats. Pet proof your rooms Just as you would childproof your home when prepping for a mobile little one, consider each room from your pet's point of view. What is at a level they are likely to bump or whack with their tail? Don't keep breakable items on coffee tables or other low places where they can be bumped into and broken, or up on shelves that kitty can reach easily. Store those items safely away or display them in a closable cabinet. With these tips in mind, your home or room makeover can be a haven for your entire family, including your pets.