AMERICA'S FIRST... BLACK-OWNED HOME IMPROVEMENT MAGAZINE.
Impressions
GET EXCITED ABOUT CARPET CLEANING!
contents SAVIOURS’ DAY GIFT
PUBLISHER KHALID MUHAMMAD
EDITOR K. MUHAMMAD
WRITER D. RANGAVES
PHOTOGRAPHY 510 MEDIA
CREATIVE DIRECTOR K. MUHAMMAD
WEB DEVELOPER N. FACTOR
GRAPHIC DESIGNER PERRY PEDRO
FEAUTURES
first Impressions
SAVIOURS’ DAY Home
LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE GETAWAY TO MAGICAL MONTEREY
Improvement Magazine
EASY BEAN SOUP RECIPE
2024 West Street Oakland, CA 94612 www.bayareafirst.com
LOVE THAT! BE YOUR OWN BOSS
MAKE A COLORFUL FIRST IMPRESSION
GOOD TO KNOW STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO MAKE A WATER FILTER
ARE YOU PREPARED FOR DISASTER?
REVIEW BOOK REVIEWS
FOUR THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT RAW MILK
BUYING PROPERTY MADE EASY WITH ZILLOW
a, ic er m A in re he yw an om fr , ow N you can search for jos.bs that match your skill
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Get excited about carpet cleaning.
Your family is counting on you to keep
In addition to our same-day service 7 days
the carpets, upholstery, and area rugs
a week, we offer deep
clean. Which is why
cleaning and deodorizing.
Champs Carpet
Our truck-mounted
Cleaning offers you so
carpet cleaning
many ways to protect it.
system lets you preserve the carpets that are precious to those who are most precious to you. champscarpet.com
800.246.7576
Food
top tested recipes
Easy Bean Soup Recipe Make a fresh and delicious bowl of classic bean soup for your family
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
1 pound bag of small white navy beans 1/3 cup of olive oil 1large onion chopped 2 medium tomatoes diced fine 2 sticks of celery chopped 2 sticks of carrots chopped fine 3-4 garlic cloves minced 1/2 teaspoon italian seasoning 1/2 teaspoon curry powder 1/4 teaspoon black cumin seed powder 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon pepper
Sort and wash beans, removing any dirt, rocks, and fragmented beans. Soak beans with about a tablespoon of baking soda overnight or about hours. After soaking the beans, bring them to a boil, and skim off white foam formed above water. This foam is made from outer coating of the bean combined with protein. Together these chemicals cause gas build up in the body and should be removed. Cook the beans, covered on medium, for approximately 90 minutes. When ready, beans will start
splitting and can be mashed with a spoon. Add onion, green pepper, tomatoes, celery, carrots, and garlic. Add oil. Add Italian seasoning, curry powder, and black cumin seed powder. Add salt. Add pepper. Stir contents well, and cook on medium for approximately 60 minutes. When complete beans can be easily mashed with spoon. This dish can either be presented in its original form, or pureed in a blender and then served.
BE YOUR OWN BOSS By: Diana Rangaves
Local Entrepreneur Gets Youth on Track to Start Their Own Business Carpeting remains a popular flooring option for homes and businesses. This means there will always be a need for professional carpet cleaners. The industry is recession-proof. Building cleaners are part of a fast-growing industry. The growth in this market is estimated at seven percent through 2028. Getting into the carpet cleaning industry is a smart move. You will have a reliable income and job security. Right now, Champs Carpet is offering huge opportunities. On-the-job training will prepare you for the job. Time with the company will show you how to work independently. You will learn the necessary skills to become your own boss.
Second Chance Program for At-Risk Youth Champs Carpet is a professional carpet cleaning service. We offer a Second Chance Program for at-risk youth. At Champs Carpet, youths with a criminal record are encouraged to apply. It is time to get off the streets and into a secure profession. We provide you with real-life skills and teach you how to thrive. Learning the carpet cleaning trade is just the first step. In time, you will truly come to
understand the business. Champs Carpet will give you the tools to start your own carpet cleaning business.
Learn the Carpet Cleaning Trade Once hired, Champs will teach you the carpet cleaning trade. This includes the specific skills needed to do the job well. You will learn to be an effective and professional carpet cleaner. It also includes more general job skills. Learn how to dress and communicate in the business world. Any determined and reliable person can master the trade. With these skills, you can become your own boss, or even start your own business. Learning the carpet cleaning trade has a lot of value. Carpet cleaning is a business that is here to stay. If you are an effective and reliable carpet cleaner, you will not ever have to worry about not having a job.
Just as the old saying goes, “give a person a fish, and you feed them for a day. Teach a person to fish, and you feed them for a lifetime.” Champs will teach you the carpet cleaning trade so you can feed yourself for the rest of your life. Once you get the job, it is important to continue to dress professionally. Your uniform should always be clean and ironed. Your appearance and cleanliness are essential every time you show up for work. Keep your hair and nails neat. Come rested so, you do not look tired.
Statement from the Founder “My purpose is to pass this forward and be a role model for those who have a prison or offender experience. They need support when they get out. Released offenders often have limited resources and opportunities. This program provides housing, transportation, food, clothing, bus fare, training, and a job to get them back into a productive PURPOSE-filled life and society.” I feel that, “Everyone should strive for complete financial freedom. The prerequisite knowledge and discipline, however, is not taught in schools. Empower yourself with the study, discipline and practice of ownership surround yourself with likeminded persons and over time you will discover the secret science of marketing and business administration.” Ultimately, “Not all heroes wear capes. Ask yourself, did I live out my purpose? I am an independent solo-preneur who goes the extra mile on my road to wholeness.”
Apply to Champs Carpet Apply to Champs Carpet online: www.onewayjobs.com/cc This is an excellent opportunity to get your life moving in a productive and fulfilling direction, regardless of your criminal record. Do not miss out! Apply now!
Getaway to Magical Monterey By Diana Rangaves
Monterey, California is a treasure
trove of natural wonder. The central California coast boasts beautiful rocky cliffs, expansive Pacific Ocean views, and plenty of activities both on land and at sea to blow your mind with the awesomeness of nature. One of the best parts is that it rarely gets too hot or too cold regardless of the season, so you can visit Monterey any time of year without having to stay cooped up indoors. That being said, summer is a bit warmer with some fog, while winter is a bit cooler with some rain, so keep that in mind when you are planning your trip. Here are some of the best ways to spend your time in Monterey.
Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation
See the sea otters
For the adventurous, there is a beachside road with a safe bike lane in Pacific Grove. It is perfect for taking in the spectacular views of the rocky coastline. Rent a bike (or bring your own) and begin at Lovers Point State Marine Reserve. The ride is just less than five miles and is easy and beautiful. Riding a bike as opposed to driving can provide a more unique and meaningful experience, as you slow down the pace and can stop and stare out at the water much more conveniently. A one-mile trail between the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Lovers Point is a shorter option for those who do not want to commit to the fivemile route.
Whether you choose to stay on land or go out to sea, there are ways to catch a glimpse of some sea otters, the cute and furry mammals for which Monterey is renowned. If you want to stay on land, go to Moss Landing State Beach or Elkhorn Slough, also in Moss Landing. Big groups of sea otters are often hanging out at Moss Landing State Beach in what are called rafts. Rafts are made up of just one gender of sea otters and typically contain between two and a hundred of the adorable little guys. If they are sleeping, they will probably be right next to one another and wrapped in sea kelp to make sure no one drifts away. Aside from these locations, it is also very possible to see sea otters floating around just by standing anywhere near the water in Monterey.
Whale Watching Another great way to spot some sea otters is by going out on a kayak. You can rent a kayak and take it out on your own or go on a guided tour if you do not have kayaking experience. Keep in mind, the water can get a little rough at times. Aside from seeing sea otters, you will likely spot plenty of birds, harbor seals, and maybe even some dolphins in their natural habitat. No matter what time of year you come to Monterey, you will have the chance to go whale watching, where you might spot blue whales, gray whales, killer whales, humpback whales, and dol-
phins to boot. Mid-December through mid-April has gray whales and killer whales migrating through. Then, from mid-April to mid-December, blue whales, killer whales, and humpback whales are in the area. At any time of year, there are always dolphins. Whale-watching trips tend to be pricy, particularly if you go in a smaller boat, but the smaller boats can provide a more up-close experience to these magnificent creatures.
Big Sur is a must The drive along Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, between Carmel and San Simeon is breathtaking to say the least. The two-land road winds along cliffs that tower over crashing waves. Make a stop at Big Sur’s Pfeiffer Beach. It is not necessarily as a place to swim because the waves are big, the tide is strong, and huge rocks are jutting out of the water everywhere. However, it is a place to experience nature at its finest for the safety of the beach.
If you are up for it, you can also find a campsite in Big Sur. There are several to choose from, all guaranteed to offer some of the finest California natural beauty available. In addition, while you are in Big Sur, the Bixby Creek Bridge is a sight to see, crossing from rocky cliff to rocky cliff with the great big Pacific Ocean as its backdrop looking out to the west.
If you’re looking for a getaway to unplug a bit and connect with nature, Monterey, California should be on your radar no matter the time of year. There’s no doubt you will be impressed by all it has to offer both in and out of the sea.
Spectacular lodging
Monterey Bay Aquarium It is not necessary to utilize
some of the more magical lodging options Monterey has A trip to Monterey is incomto offer to experience the city, plete without visiting its but if it is in your budget, it is world-famous Monterey Bay worth it. For instance, TreeAquarium. The aquarium bones Resort in Big Sur, you hosts sea otters, a delightful can stay in a yurt (also known array of jellyfish, striking and as glamorous camping or colorful fish of all kinds, pen- “glamping”) that has unspeakguins, and even a large kelp able views of the landscape forest to maintain an environ- and the ocean. For something ment similar to the natural a little less out-there, you habitat of the open water might try the Clement, just bejust beside it. This aquarium side the Monterey Bay Aquaris much more than a tourist ium. It has a deck overlooking experience, however. It fothe bay and offers a discount to cuses on conservation and the aquarium. Another option education and is a non-profit. is the Monterey Plaza Hotel The majority of the creatures and Spa, perched on a cliff and inside are rescues and are overlooking the ocean. It has a unable to live in the wild. The private beach, so you can expeprice to get in goes to protect rience the ocean in a more perthe marine life in the Monte- sonal setting. There are plenty rey area. more options available in Monterey, including some lovely Airbnb’s that rank right up there with fancy hotels in terms of amenities and views. Where you stay in this gorgeous town can truly add layers of beauty to your experience.
”
This aquarium is much more than a tourist experience, however. It focuses on conservation and education and is a non-profit.
STEP BY STEP
GUIDE HOME
TO MAKE
water A MADE filter
When a natural or man-made disaster occurs, the local water supply is likely to be contaminated. Your health department might not pass it for human consumption. The same goes for when you are traveling out of the country; you never know whether the tap water is safe or not.
Making Your Own Filter Not everyone can afford the professional kind of filtration, especially as it can cost well above a thousand dollars. Fortunately, it is possible to make a water filter right at home. It will have several components, so you will get the maximum possible purification for your water. Of course, you can always boil your water, but this will not take care of the heavier debris. Boiling will also take up a lot of your precious fuel.
What You Need You will need the following for your homemade water filter: • An empty 2-liter bottle • Two tin cans without labels (29-ounce capacity) • 10 feet of copper tubing, coiled at the center and one foot of straight tubing on either side (0.25 inches) eit • A bottle of Isopropyl Alcohol • A glass jar with a vented lid • A few cotton balls • A bag of activated carbon charcoal • A pound of sand • A pound of gravel • 8 bricks • A lighter or matchbooks • A box cutter or knife
Step 1:
Once you have the above items, cut off the bottom of the bottle. Cut the lid off one of the tin cans as well, and drill a half-inch hold into the bottle. Put the copper tubing inside the hole.
Step 2:
Next, you have to stack the filtering material inside the bottle. Drill one hole in the cap of the bottle and put it back on the bottle. First, put a few cotton balls inside this bottle, plugging up the cap for a final filter. Rinse the activated charcoal and put it on top of the cotton in a two-inch layer.
Step 3:
The sand will make for another two-inch layer. Finally, make another equal layer of gravel. When you have all these filtering layers, put the bottle inside the can with the hole.
Step 4:
The copper tubing comes next. Bend this into a coil, using the second tin can as a guide. There should be a foot of tubing on top of the bottle, and one foot sticking out from the bottom.
Step 5:
Re Remove the lid of the second tin can and cut out a square piece from its side. This will enable you to see the copper tubing inside. The tubing should go down into the glass jar. Make a hold inside the lid of the jar for the tubing, and a few additional holes to let the steam out.
Step 6:
Finally, you pour the isopropyl alcohol inside the tin can with the copper tubing. This will cause a heating effect. For filtering the water, pour it in the plastic bottle and let it seep through the natural filtering. The hot copper tubing will kill off most of the bacteria and pathogens.
FOUR THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT
raw milk 2 1 Raw Milk has health benefits
Nutrients like probiotics, vitamin D and immunoglobulins (antibodies) found in raw milk naturally boost the immune system and reduce the risk of allergies in both children and adults. Raw milk is higher in nutritional content than pasteuized-processed mil
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The Weston A Price Foundation (WAPF), an organization that scientifically tracks the nutritional properties of food claims that raw milk is an elixir that can not only cure allergies but also provide beneficial bacteria and digest more easily than GMO pasteurized milk, because the lack of processing makes the vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and fats easier for our bodies to abso
In the article entitled “Raw Milk Vs Pasteurized Milk, Armchair Science, London January 1, 2000 “Probably pasteurizations worst offense is that it makes insolvable the major part of the calcium contained in raw milk. This frequency leads to rickets, bad teeth an and nervous troubles, for sufficient calcium is vital to children; and with the loss of phosphorus also associated with calcium, bone and brain formation suffer serious setbacks”
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Pasteurized milk has lots of hormones and synthetic (GMO) byproducts which are extremely harmful for human consumption.
Book Reviews
1.
1. The Secret Relationship Between Blacks and Jews
The Secret Relationship Between Blacks and Jews is a book released in 1991 by the Nation of
Islam that asserts that Jews dominated the Atlantic slave trade. Jews openly spoke of the benefits of scapegoating Blacks in the South, and Jewish politicians helped create and enforce the Jim Crow laws that kept Blacks from developing an economic foundation. Jews even altered the practice of their religion to accommodate the racist Southern traditions. Jewish merchants in the post-Civil War South were leaders in the financial exploitation of the newly freed slaves, targeting the Black cotton sharecroppers and growing extremely wealthy in the process. Many notable Jewish families and institutions, including the Lehman Brothers, Neiman Marcus, and even the infamous Rothschild family of international bankers, can trace their wealth to the cotton fields of the American South.
2. How to Eat to Live
Messenger Elijah Muhammad has been teaching the so-called Negroes of America on the
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proper foods to eat to improve their mental power, physical appearance, for prevention of illness, curing of ailments and prolonging life.
3. A Torchlight for America
This book represents some of the guiding principles taught to us by the Honorable Elijah Muhammad. This man and his teachings have been responsible for transforming the lives of millions of black men and women, many of whom this society has rejected as incorrigible, irredeemable, irreformable, irretrievable, hopeless and lost.
4. Glycemic Load Diet
A cardiologist's revolutionary weight-loss plan that allows dieters to enjoy good carbs while still losing weight The glycemic index has been the basis of many popular diets.
5. Our Saviour Has Arrived
This title addresses the creation of God, the New World, and what's referred to as the "metaphysical" side of Elijah Muhammad's teaching. It eloquently delves into the subject of
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form and spirit in the simplest terms.
6. The Fall Of America
The Fall Of America By Elijah Muhammad This title deals with many prophetic and well as historical aspects of Elijah Muhammad's teaching. It chronologically cites various aspects of American history, its actions pertaining to the establishment and treatment of its once slaves, which is shown to be a significant cause of America's fall.
7. Closing The Gap
Penetrating answers to penetrating questions, Closing The Gap provides the reader with a rare, unfiltered look at the heart, mind and soul of the most profound voice in the world today through one on one interviews spanning several years by Jabril Muhammad, noted columnist for The Final Call newspaper.
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REAL ESTATE
NEWS
Having A Dream is good Owning One is Better! Buying property can be a very complicated and tedious process, especially if you are doing it on your own for the very first time. Zillow offers to be there for you every step of the way throughout the process. Whether you want to buy a home, sell a home, or rent a home, Zillow has got you covered.
Checking your credit scores and reports First, check your credit score before contacting a lender. Annualcreditreport.com can help you with this task. We will not delve in on the details of the report, all we can tell you is that, the higher your credit score, the lower the interest rate on your mortgage.
Finding a real estate agent Now, an agent is such a crucial person in your home buying experience. The good thing is, you don’t have to worry about finding one. Zillow has a directory of some of the best agents you can ever get. All you need to do is compare their reviews, current listings, and past sales profiles directly on our page
Get preapproved by a lender Getting your loan preapproved early during your home search can be a very smart move. But finding a licensed lender, within your area with positive ratings from customers is even smarter. Zillow has easy to use tools that can help you in your search The lender pulls out the credit information we talked about in Step 1. If all is well, they issue you a letter stating the amount they are willing to lend you. Armed with a price range and knowledge of the local area, your agent will assist you as you explore the listings in your area. Make an offer, do a home inspection, and wait for the closing day before getting your keys to move in. In addition, that is how easy buying property is with Zillow. Congrats, you are a soon to be a homeowner.
The First Impressions Guide to
NEUTRALS
Used the right way, almost any color can act as a neautral and still be as livable as a gray or beige backdrop. It’s all about execution.
Luxurious Blue Painted Room Inspiration
We’ve got our eye on these serene blue interiors that show off the calming effect of turquoise, teal, and aquamarine.
use multiple tones
Entering a space awash in blue hues like turquoise, teal, or aquamarine is often soothing, which is no surprise considering these colors reflect those of the ocean, th where we often dream of going to escape busy schedules and looming deadlines. Colors of the sea transport any space they touch from powder rooms to kitchens to bedrooms. You really can’t go wrong with these versatile paint colors. There’s a wide range of tones in this color palette including soft, muted aquas and bold, bright teals. You can create a calming or energizing environment depending on the hue and finish you choose.
PLAY THE BLUES
To give your serene space extra style and pizzaz, consider a high-gloss paint or a decorative finish.
RUSHING STREAM P480-4 Behr
FIRE CRACKER PPU2-16 Behr
NEW HOUSE WHITE PPU2-18 Behr
Terricotta
TODAY:
Terra-cotta is a must have color for your room
Having been used for centuries and known for its timeless appeal and rustic charm, First Impressions Home Magazine chose to explore this fascinating shade.
This burned orange color has emerged from the shade of being a primarily tile or pottery color to becoming a major design statement as well.
With its rich, earthy red and brown tones that are easy to incorporate into wardrobes, makeup boxes and interiors toasted shades like cinnamon, rust, ochre, pale pink and burgundy are becoming the chic go-to-shade for inspiring interiors.
SCULPTOR CLAY PPU5-08 Behr
RARE WOOD MQ2-39 Behr
SPICE PPU2-18 Behr
AUBURN GLAZE S180-5 Behr
Are You Prepared For Disaster? DEALING WITH DISASTER
IS NOW A POSSIBLITY WITH THIS SURVIVAL KIT
1.
Solar-powered generator Rockpals portable generator makes use of solar power and provides energy to charge up your devices. In this digital age, you will need to keep your phone on and stay in touch, especially when there is an emergency. That is when you will need such a generator the most. Av Available from Amazon, you can get it within the price range of $205 and $220. Earthquakes, for instance, may deprive you of your usual power sources, but a solar generator will enable you to get what you need from a renewable energy source. Incidentally, it is also better for the environment.
We would all like to remain in a safe bubble our whole lives, but that’s not always possible. Think of the fires in Northern California during October in 2017, or all those hurricanes causing damage in the east. When an earthquake hit our region a few years, back, life, as we knew it simply came to a standstill. So Some of the people in the affected area were prepared to survive through the power outages, the contaminated water, and other problems. Others were not, and they had to depend on the kindness of their neighbors. Community spirit did win out back then, but we all learned some very important lessons during that time. Of these, the most important was this: Do NOT rely on luck. Simply put, pu we all need some items to lead a decent life, especially when in survival mode. You would need clean water, food, and warmth when you are being evacuated or forced to leave your home for safety reasons. Prepare yourself and keep your loved ones safe by getting the following items for these worst-case scenarios:
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2. Weatherproof fireproof sleeping bag Rechargeable emergency radio RunningSnail emergency radio runs on batteries as well as hand-cranked power, doing away with the need for a conventional outlet. You can even keep it charged for emergencies using the USB port. During an emergency, you will be glad of this radio for important updates on the weather and any possible hazards. t It will also help you stay in touch with the outside world, even when phone signals have given out. You can get it from Amazon within the price range of $20 and $25.
Available on eBay within the price range of $5 and $7, this thermal sleeping bag is extremely compact; it can easily fit into the palm of your hand when you are on the go. This saves space and ensures that you have a warm place to sleep every night. Du During an evacuation or simply surviving out of doors, you will need protection from the moisture as well as from potential fires. You may also use it as a thermal blanket or a raincoat when it is time to get moving.
Propane-powered cooker This propane-powered cooker is light, portable, and powerful enough for cooking in emergencies. Available on eBay within the price range of $88 and $92, it is made of durable material, with a safe design so you do not accidentally start any fires. Su Survival mode also involves cooking your rations, boiling water, and several other tasks. With this convenient stove, you will have a way to eat fresh and healthy food, even when the lights go out.
Charcoal water filter
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BLACK + BLUM charcoal water filter bottle uses activated charcoal to clean up dirty water and make it drinkable and that within the pricing of $21 and $25. You can get it from Amazon and you can even keep your water with you when on the go, ready for drinking in an emergency.
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9. Water purification tablets PURINIZE tablets are chemical-free, iodine-free, and will clean up your water without leaving a yucky taste and that too within the price range of $15 and 35. Clean drinking water is one of the most essential items in an emergency survival situation, and these tablets provide a qui and convenient way to get it. quick
First aid kit Emergency water pouch
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This First Aid Only contains no less than 299 pieces, perfect for every minor injury, ache, or wound. When you are away from home for any reason, you might not always have easy access to a clinic or pharmacy. This kit will help you stay prepared for all occasions while the zippe zippered case will ensure that everything stays compact and portable.
Starting from $8.56, DATREX emergency water pouch is available at Amazon. It contains about 125 ml and can be a lifesaver when you are in survival mode. You can even freeze it beforehand to make sure it lasts a long time.
7. Duralast jump starter 700 amps
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FAV-Tech is a battery jump starter that is compatible with most devices. When you are running low on power in an emergency, you want to do all you can to conserve it. Get it from Amazon within the price range of $9 and $12 and this device will help you switch to a safe wit mode without overheating. It will also allow you to avoid overcharging batteries. What’s more, such a tool will also help to protect you from short circuits.
Solar Flashlights Solar energy is a great alternative when conventional power supplies fail. These Simpeak emergency flashlights are easily rechargeable and can be powered through cranking by hand. You will need one of these in case you have to evacuate at night or navigate in the da You can buy it from Amazon dark. within the price range of $13 and $15.
APC back up power source 5.9 hours This is a UPS battery by AJC that makes it easy to extend your backup power source. If you are still at home, but suffering from a power outage, this battery will help to keep you going for several more hours at least. If you are ready to invest an amount within the ra range of $24 and $27, this can be a good option available from Amazon.
8. Satellite phone This Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 phone has a tracking feature, an emergency button, and even paging. These are all functions that you will need when the usual signals are cut off during an emergency. Available within the price range of $645 to $650, you can get it from Walmart. Its im impact-resistant and can withstand rough usage, so it is best to have one on hand, in case your safe space is threatened.
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High tech tent SE emergency tube tent has a coating of alum on the inside, providing a thermal effect. It will help you and your family stay protected from the elements, even if you are outside during the winter months. Hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and Hu other disasters can render many people homeless. Until you get to a safe place, this tent will help you stay warm and alive. The outside color is orange, which will help rescuers spot you more easily. It is available from Amazon within the pr price range of $23 and $27.
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800.289.0679