How to guide 2017

FOLSOM

THE

Special supplement of

HOW TO GUIDE How to choose a solar energy company Go Solar, Page 12

How to choose a pest control company, Page 20

How to choose a jeweler, Page 8

How to choose a preschool, Page 10

2017

Choose a carpet cleaner A

Happy customers

clean carpet keeps your home or office looking new and smelling fresh. It is also healthier, with fewer dust particles and mites.

Carpets make homes comfortable and can be big contributors to warmth during the cool season. Lying down on a plush, soft clean carpet can be a great way to relax.

But keeping your carpet plush, soft, clean and looking and smelling good requires maintenance. And regular cleaning is a key part of maintenance.

A regular cleaning will help your carpet maintain its beauty and texture. It will also minimize or erase the stains on your carpet caused by guests, pets and children.

A good carpet cleaning company will be able to remove spots and stains. Experts can revive an older carpet by using special equipment and processes.

When they are through, your old carpet will look and feel bright and fluffy all over again.

Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting a carpet cleaner:

Professional staff The appearance and demeanor of the floor-cleaning company will tell you a lot about the quality of their services.

Because there are few regulations on cleaning businesses, the professionalism of each company can vary widely.

It is essential to find a company that does honest, quality work. After all, you will be bringing them into your home, so ask the company pertinent questions before hiring them.

Request proof of their insurance coverage. If the company doesn’t have insurance, you could be responsible for any injuries or damage that occurs

2

When you speak to cleaning companies, ask them for references from previous customers. Most people are happy to tell you when they’ve received good services.

You can also ask people in your social network about carpet cleaning companies. If they have found a great service, ask for the contact information and get a quote for your own home.

You can search online for information about what to expect. Look at review websites to see what customers have said about each business. Of course, maintain a level of skepticism about anything you read. Even the best cleaners can leave a customer dissatisfied, so one person’s rant isn’t necessarily a reflection of what you could expect.

If possible, contact the Better Business Bureau to see whether there have been any complaints filed about a business and how they were resolved.

COURTESY

Experts can revive an older carpet by using special equipment and processes. while they work inside your home.

Inquire about whether the company has its own employees or subcontracts cleanings to other providers. Talk to them about their background and any special certifications they have in their industry.

Cleaning process There are numerous processes for cleaning carpets. Chemicals, water, steam and other heavy-duty equipment could all be used.

Ask them about their methods. You

HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph

should understand why they prefer one process over another, and why it is best for your home.

If you have children or pets, verify that the chemicals are safe for them.

If you are allergic to certain chemicals, be sure to check that they are not using anything that would be harmful.

Make sure you check to see how long it will take the carpet to be dry enough to walk on. Some companies use a dry chemical that shorten the dry time considerably.

Protection policies Cleaning companies should have policies in place for protecting your home and guaranteeing their work.

If spots return or if you are unhappy with the results, they should send someone back to clean your carpets again at no charge. High-quality companies guarantee their work for a period of time.

If the prospective cleaning company gives a guarantee, it is a good indication of their sound business practices. When you find a company with warranties and a spotless reputation, you know you have found a good carpet cleaner.

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HOW TO GUIDE

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Publication of the Folsom Telegraph • HOW TO GUIDE

3

Choose a garden center I

n the old days, gardeners received a seed catalog every January. The catalogs helped them plan their spring gardens. It was great way to pass time waiting for the snow to melt. But the seed catalog has gone the way of the milk man.

Now there are a few options for buying seeds and landscape plants: the Internet and garden centers. Gardeners around the world use the websites to plan their spring gardens every winter. They have a wide range of produce and annual color to consider.

But the Internet has its limitations. For one thing, it’s hard to touch and smell things over the Internet. For another, sometimes people need expert advice. And, it’s difficult to shop for large trees and shrubs. That’s why gardeners visit garden centers. They can be a one-stop-shop for gardening project large and small.

With multiple locations in the area, how do you select the right garden center?

Do the research Research will help you determine which garden center is best for you.

Look at the center’s website.

Not only should it be with a resource for quality products, it should also have information to help you become more successful as a gardener. Staff advice should be easy to un-

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Does someone in your social network love gardening? If so, then ask who they use. derstand and apply. Remember, they are not only retailers but also experts in their field.

Remember though, due to the seasonality of product, the online listings may be vague. But a reputable garden center will have staff on hand to answer questions.

Quality garden centers offer hands-on training and other classes on various gardening topics. Expertise can also be defined by media presence.

The specialists at the garden center you are considering should be on the short list that the media uses. Have you seen them in the local news offering seasonal tips?

Your friends and neighbors may have referrals. Does someone in your social network love gardening? If so, then ask who they use.

Visit the garden centers Once you have researched garden centers, visit two or three locations before making a final decision.

Talk to a sales person. Think of a problem you experienced in the past and ask them for a solution. The sales people should be knowledgeable

COURTESY

Quality garden centers offer hands-on training and other classes on various gardening topics. about remedies. Being able to take samples of pests and diseases for diagnoses, is one way to sample the expertise of the staff.

Find out how long they have been in business and more about the owner. Good centers are usually in the same place, operated by the same people for a very long time.

Take a look at the plants. Do

HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph

they look healthy? Are they well-maintained? Is there a decent variety?

Typically, plants acclimated to your area grown in green houses are better quality.

After all, they are produced to be grown in your area.

Plants grown locally usually have fewer diseases. A plant may not appear diseased until you take it home.

When shopping at a garden center, understand the types of plants they offer.

There should be a labeling system in place. If not, ask the staff for more information.

Once you’ve done your research and know what you want, head on over to your local garden center and get started.

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www.iDigGreenAcres.com Publication of the Folsom Telegraph • HOW TO GUIDE

5

Choose a contractor I

f you own property, some day you will need a professional to help you with repairs or renovations. The professional could be a builder, remodeler, plumber, electrician or heating and air-conditioning specialist. It’s a smart idea to take your time and pick the most competent professionals.

It’s not always easy to find someone to do quality work on your home. Here are some things to think about when picking a contractor to work on your home.

can be downright dangerous, not to mention in violation of building codes.

Reputable professionals also play by the rules. That means they will walk you through the process of obtaining any necessary permits and paying any taxes or fees related to the job they’re doing.

Insurance

thing when subcontractors are skilled at what they do.

But if you’re expecting one particular person or group to do the job, that should be clear up front. There shouldn’t be any surprises when the work begins.

Believe it or not, in most cases your homeowner’s insurance policy will not cover injuries or accidents that occur from work being done on your property.

That means you need to make sure the contractor carries their own insurance coverage. Otherwise, you could personally be liable for any injuries that happen on the job site — something that leaves you at huge financial risk, given the cost of health care and lawsuits these days.

Ask whether your contractor carries their own insurance, and verify that it’s in effect when the job is being done on your property.

License permits?

Get references

The professional you hire needs to possess the right license to do the job and obtain any required permits to work on your home.

Plumbers and electricians, for example, are typically licensed by your state, and work done by unlicensed people

One of the most important parts of choosing a contractor is looking at their references.

Talk your friends, family and neighbors, and the contractors themselves.

The best home contractors will always have a great reputation with lots of hap-

Start early Homeowners are a lot more likely to make mistakes if they feel rushed when picking a contractor. Picking whoever shows up on your doorstep is rarely your best option, so plan to do some homework ahead of time.

This isn’t always possible for emergencies, of course, so it’s a good idea to have some companies in mind before you actually need their services.

Choosing a great plumber, for example, is something you should do right away so you’ll immediately know who to call if you have a plumbing emergency in the middle of the night. You can pick the best one now, then keep their contact info written in a place where you can quickly find it in a pinch.

6

COURTESY

Who does the job?

Sometimes the people who personally do the work on your property are important to you.

In jobs where craftsmanship is easily visible, like intricate tile installation or finish carpentry, you might want the expert skills of one specific person or crew to do the job.

If this matters to you, make sure you verify who will actually be doing the work on your property.

It’s common in the construction industry for companies to subcontract out different parts of the job. That’s normally not a problem — and can be a good

HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph

py customers. They’ll likely have a list of clients you can call to ask about their work and perhaps even see it in person.

If you’re looking for a painting contractor, for example, drive by some of the homes they’ve painted and see what the quality of the work looks like. You might even be able to find an example that’s not brand-new, so you can see how the job holds up over time.

Even better, try to get references from people you know and trust. If you’ve got a friend who had similar work done on their house, ask them what they thought about the contractor they hired.

Some things to ask: • Did they complete the job on time and on budget?

• Were they professional at all times?

• Did they keep the work site tidy and clean up after themselves?

• What was the quality of their work like? Can I see it?

• Would you recommend them for another job?

After you’ve done your homework, choosing the right contractor will be simple. You just need to take your time and make sure the people you’re dealing with are true professionals with a track record of happy customers to back them up.

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7

Choose a jeweler J

ewelry serves two functions: one, it is a great fashion accessory; two, it is also an investment.

In many cases, it can be a huge investment, particularly when buying an engagement ring, wedding band or a nice fashion accessory like a necklace, cuff links or wristwatch.

Choosing the right jeweler is important when you choose to splurge on one of these items.

Why settle for just anyone?

Qualified jewelers are everywhere — even in the smallest towns.

How do you pick the best jeweler in your area?

Finding someone with excellent skills is the first thing to consider. Quality jewelers offer reasonable pricing and fantastic customer service.

Do not make the mistake of basing your decision on cost alone.

Jewelry professionals are skilled artisans who create beautiful pieces with their own hands. They repair, clean and adjust items with ease.

They may also offer other products from off-site manufacturers. In general, they are an excellent resource.

Jewelers and watch repair technicians have undergone extensive training and should have certifications to prove it.

They also attend period-

8

COURTESY PHOTOS/ INDIGO SKY PHOTOGRAPHY

These two Verragio, white gold wedding rings were purchased at Sharif Fine Jewelers in Sacramento. ic classes to keep current on regulations within the industry. Many jewelers travel to professional shows featuring the latest trends. They maintain their knowledge and understanding of the precious metal and gemstone markets.

Technical expertise isn’t the only aspect to consider. Customers who receive superior

service are likely to return for future purchases. You’ll want to work with someone who sees more than dollar signs behind each customer.

Guarantees are essential.

It is a fundamental factor in establishing a long-term relationship with the public and a track record of satisfied customers.

HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph

Top professionals offer free repair and unlimited service for the life of the jewelry.

People often regard their jewelry as a kind of financial or sentimental investment for family members. A professional understands the emotional bonds symbolized by a piece of jewelry, and treats it accordingly. Many jewelers are sensitive to the needs of each customer.

A discount store may offer an unbelievable price on a piece of jewelry. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Inexpensive prices are often an indicator of lower quality gemstones and metal components with lower purity. When the item breaks, it might be impossible to take it back for a repair or replacement because the seller has moved on. Some dealers focus solely on profit.

Doing business with a jeweler you know and trust will make a big difference when it is time to make a significant

investment in a ring, necklace or watch. He or she will make every effort to get you the best possible price without sacrificing quality.

If you have been doing business with the same shop for a long time, you should expect a high level of service. The item should be guaranteed every time.

Anyone can sell jewelry.

Malls across America are filled with jewelry stores. But a dedicated professional jeweler doesn’t just sell precious metals or gemstones. He or she brings a keen eye for the beautiful and stunning quality of each piece.

It is true that price is important, but it shouldn’t be your top consideration. You will get better value for your money when you do business with a jeweler you can trust — now and 20 years from today.

High-quality workmanship starts with the jewelry and ends with your satisfaction.

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Monday-Saturday 11am-6:30pm • www.sharifjewelers.com Publication of the Folsom Telegraph • HOW TO GUIDE

9

Choose a preschool C

hoosing the right preschool may seem like a daunting task for many parents as they determine the right path to begin their child’s early education journey. This may be the first time your child will be receiving care outside the home or entering into a structured learning environment, making the pursuit of the perfect preschool all the more overwhelming.

With this important family decision in mind, we share the following tips to help you find the right preschool for your child.

Begin your decision-making processes by making a list of factors most important to you in providing the best quality care and education for your child. Depending on the age of your little one, start with identifying your child’s emotional, physical, social, and academic needs. Ask yourself questions such as:

• What age appropriate early education curriculum would enhance or help achieve your child’s developmental milestones?

• What type of infant care or preschool programing is offered?

• What type of environment does your child thrive in?

• What type of learner is your child?

• What type of schedule works best for your family?

Next, make a list of characteristics that your ideal school would offer as a starting point to seek out information from family and friends. Those you know best often share similar values and goals and can offer valuable insight by referencing their own experiences. You should get a feel for an or-

10

COURTESY PHOTOS

Schedule a “trial day” at several preschools to see which makes the best fit for your child. ganization’s reputation, their teaching philosophies as well as how they challenge and nurture their students.

Once you have a few referrals, research the internet and local guides to broaden your perspective. Most websites will have plenty of information about the school, its staff, its programs as well as policy summaries.

By looking at photo galleries, news clippings, social media and videos, you can further narrow down your search options with those that appeal to you.

With your “short list” of institutions that fit your criteria, contact those schools to schedule an appointment to conduct a tour. Be sure to take notice of the following:

HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph

• Does the atmosphere appear to be organized, energized and fun?

• Is the staff friendly and helpful?

• Does the staff engage with the children and do they seem interested?

• Do the students seem respectful, well cared for and happy?

• Is the facility clean and safe?

• Does the facility have any unique features?

During the tour try to meet as many of the staff and teachers as you can to determine whether your child will feel comfortable. Children often exhibit a special awareness and react to experiences. Schedule a “trial day” if

One preschool will stand out above the rest as the right fit for your family to grow with. offered. Following a tour or trial day, ask him or her about their impression of the school. Even if they are too young to articulate their feelings, you can still get a sense by observing their natural responses.

After visiting all of the preschools on your “short list,” review your findings and trust your intuition. One preschool will stand out above the rest as the right fit for your family to grow with. Ultimately, it is this connection that will assure you that you have found the right place to create a happy and healthy environment; one prepared to inspire your child to be a life-long learner.

Publication of the Folsom Telegraph • HOW TO GUIDE

11

Choose a solar energy company S olar panels can lower your home or business energy bills while helping the planet and adding value to your property.

That’s why more Americans are turning to solar power.

As a result, more companies are offering to install solar panels. So it is important to pick the product and installer that will result in the best long-term benefits for your situation.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a solar company.

that’s even better.

Financing options

Reputation In a fast-growing industry like solar energy, it’s especially important to know the reputation of the company you’re dealing with. New companies may be showing up in the marketplace, but that doesn’t mean they’ll necessarily offer the best service or be around long enough to support their product line years from now.

Look for stability in your solar installer. You’ll want to find a company that has developed a great reputation over a number of years with a long track record of satisfied customers from projects similar in scope to yours.

The system There are a wide range of solar panel systems on the market, and the technology itself is going to be a big part of your decision. Your solar system can be tied to the existing electrical grid or completely off the grid, for example, which will require different equipment and setups.

No matter what system you decide on, the key thing you’ll be looking for is efficiency, and that means understanding both the energy generated

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COURTESY

Many solar systems will pay for themselves over a number of years. and the cost of doing so.

Some solar systems generate power more efficiently than others, depending on their design and the type of materials they’re made from. And price efficiency can matter, too, because you don’t want to find yourself spending a whole lot more money for just a tiny increase in power. Likewise, if a slightly bigger investment can yield a large boost in energy generated, it can make sense to spend the extra money.

Look closely at the math, and pick the system that gives you the best return for your money. Many solar systems will pay for themselves over a number of years, so choosing one to be installed by a well-regarded company can be a wise financial move.

HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph

Other services Homeowners or commercial users will often want more than just solar panels installed. If you think that’s a possibility, you can look for a company that offers a range of services, such as radiant heat systems and solar thermal systems.

And if you’re doing new construction that will have solar components, look for a solar company that can also serve as your general contractor. The bigger the project, the more important it is to have the solar systems integrated into the design and construction from start to finish, not added on as an afterthought by a contractor that doesn’t typically incorporate solar elements into their projects.

If the company is familiar with construction methods that will increase the structure’s overall efficiency, too,

Finally, a good solar company will present you with a wide range of options to help you pay for the upgrades.

They should be familiar with all types of government incentive programs and willing to help walk you through the process of getting them. Federal programs are available to consumers who install solar panels on their homes, and additional state and local incentives are sometimes available. Make sure you thoroughly understand all these programs, though, because their requirements can be complex and important to follow exactly.

In addition to the help from government programs, there are three ways buyers typically purchase their systems: Paying cash: The simplest and most direct way of paying for your system, cash buyers may be eligible for a 30 percent tax credit from the federal government along with other rebates that can reduce the installation cost up to 50 percent in total.

Loans: Both home equity loans and unsecured solar loans may be available to help you purchase a solar system. Some solar companies offer loans for up to 20 years, while home equity loans may have the benefit of letting you deduct the interest from your income taxes.

Leases: You may also be able to lease your solar system with no down payment or upfront costs. A solar lease will let you make affordable monthly payments to pay for your system, perhaps even including a performance guarantee and scheduled maintenance services included in the monthly cost.

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13

Choose an HVAC company A

qualified professional can help prolong the life of your HVAC system.

HVAC professionals prevent equipment failure by routinely servicing and maintaining your system.

The breakdown of your heating or air conditioning system can be a huge nightmare — particularly during times of extreme temperature.

But even in moderate weather, the HVAC system in your home is important to your comfort and safety.

Most people cannot tolerate extreme temperatures.

The elderly and people with chronic health problems need to have the temperature stabilized in their homes.

The best HVAC contractors are helpful and reliable, but a poor contractor can cost you extra money and heartache.

Ask people in your social network for recommendations. Good word of mouth will go a long way toward helping you find the best professionals in your area.

After creating a list of candidates, call the Better Business Bureau, your state’s board of contractors or the builders’ association to check on their reputations. Your town’s building inspection office may also have information for you. Avoid companies who have many complaints on their record.

Upon narrowing the list,

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call the remaining ones and ask about pricing, guarantees and warranties. Also inquire about how long it would take to complete a job and the manufacturers’ brands they use.

If you are purchasing new equipment, find out if you need a separate service contractor or if routine maintenance and repairs are included in the price of installation.

Does the company provide around-the-clock emergency service?

High quality HVAC companies are fully licensed, bonded and insured. If a worker is injured or causes damage to your property, that insurance should cover it. Otherwise, you could be liable for the damages. Your insurance premiums would likely increase as a result.

Reputable HVAC companies will usually belong to recognized professional and trade organizations. Some well-known organizations include the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute, and the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers. Membership in one of these organizations is not automatic. Applicants are required to have certain certifications, meet professional standards and meet or exceed other requirements before they are admitted.

COURTESY

If your old heating or air conditioning unit was inadequate, consider installing a unit that is a different size.

Before any work begins, verify that all the required building permits are in place. Most companies will file permits on your behalf at the local building codes office. But don’t assume that it has happened.

Check with the permitting office first. Work done without proper permits could result in a fine and time delay.

Have a load calculation done before installing a new sys-

HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph

tem in any building. The best companies perform a thorough calculation rather than estimate. Buildings change over time due to foundations cracking or settling. It will affect the efficiency of any equipment.

The HVAC company shouldn’t use the old unit to determine the proper size of a new one. If your old unit was inadequate, you will

want to install a unit that is a different size. Speak with your HVAC installer to determine the right size and model for you.

Ask your HVAC contractor to perform annual checkups to verify that the unit is running at peak efficiency.

With these tips, you can choose a reliable HVAC business that will help you for years to come.

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15

Choose windows and glass

N

ew modern windows can enhance the appearance of your home or commercial building property. They can also increase its value.

Weighing the functionality, aesthetics, placement, price and efficiency can be challenging — there are many things to consider.

Understanding the terminology used to describe various windows and their efficiency will help you make your decision. Here are common words and phrases you are likely to encounter:

Extreme temperatures cause frames and seals to deteriorate more quickly.

Low-e and UV factors Low-emissivity, or low-e windows, are one of the latest innovations in the energy-efficiency market. A coating on Low-e glass filters UV or ultraviolet produced by the sun. UV is a radiant factor that heats the space inside your home.

The more UV that is filtered the cooler your home will be.

Casement windows

Window glazing The actual glass in a window is called glazing. Many homes and older buildings have a single pane of glass within each frame. Although common; it is not energy-efficient.

Double-glazed windows are a popular option. There are two panes of glass in a frame.

The gap between the panes acts as a layer of insulation. It improves the window’s ability to maintain the building’s temperature and helps with soundproofing.

Occasionally newer structures will have triple-glazed windows. They are more expensive, but they also provide additional insulation and soundproofing benefits.

R-values R-values measures the resis-

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COURTESY

Windows facing the south let in more heat than north-facing windows. tance that heat flows through a window’s glass panes, either entering or leaving. Higher R-values mean more energy efficiency.

U-values U-values are the inverse of the R-value. It tells you the level at which a window conducts heat. The lower the U-value, the better.

HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph

When energy efficiency is a key concern, casement windows are the best choice. This simple high-and-crank design lowers air seepage. When the wind pushes against the glass, the seal becomes tight and reduces leakage.

Casement windows are hinged on the sides. When the windows have top hinges, they are called awning windows.

Hoppers are bottom-hinged windows.

Hinged windows must be maintained, as the seal erodes over time. When left unchecked, the erosion can make the window less energy efficient.

Other factors Large differences between interior and exterior temperatures create annoying con-

densation on glass. Always choose a window appropriate for your climate.

Window placement is another factor when building a new structure or remodeling/renovating. Consider the building’s position and location as they relate to the sun. Windows facing the south let in more heat than north-facing windows. Properly placed, a window can increase a structure’s passive solar efficiency.

Extreme temperatures cause frames and seals to deteriorate more quickly. Windows using warm-air technology and adequate spacers reduce temperature fluctuations, placing less strain on seals and framing.

Before beginning any improvement project to your home or business, understand the building codes in your area. You may need a permit to do a major window-replacement project. If you don’t have the required paperwork in order, you might have to pay a fine and remove the work that’s already been done and start over.

Knowing basic terminology and concepts before you shop for windows will save you time and money in the long run, and leave you more satisfied with your project.

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Choose a veterinarian T

aking your pet to the vet regularly can save its life.

For one thing, you can catch an illness in its early stages. And catching a disease early could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Most people think of their pets as members of their family. In fact, some people even refer to them as fur children. That’s why finding a veterinarian or veterinary clinic is so important.

You need to find qualified care to ensure the long-term health of your pet.

But in a difficult economy, pet care might get overlooked. Routine care might even seem unnecessary. After all, do humans skip medical and dental check-ups if they seem like they’re in good shape?

Unfortunately, pets age faster than human beings. Their bodies and internal systems can change rapidly, sometimes in a matter of a few months.

Routine veterinary care will help your pet to live a longer and happy life.

Choosing a good veterinarian that suits you and your pet can seem like a difficult task. If you follow these guidelines, you should be able to find a professional that will give your pet the best care possible.

Ask for referrals Your family and friends may know a good veterinarian. Listen to their experiences with a critical ear. You need to find someone who is professional, compassionate and timely. Ask specific questions, such as whether the clinic staff likes animals. Do they respond to concerns in a timely manner?

Research veterinary and veterinarian clinics on the Internet. Make a list of prospective candidates, then check

18

COURTESY

Finding the best vet for you and your pet will take time and research. with the Better Business Bureau in your state to see if there have been any complaints against these professionals. How were the complaints resolved?

Some people need extra services, such as daycare, boarding facilities and pet training. You may also need to have your pet groomed. Find out if the prospective veterinary clinic provides these services.

Make a visit After making a list of choices, visit the veterinary office or clinic. Call ahead and request a tour of facilities.

HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph

The staff should have the time to answer your questions.

You should see a clean and well-maintained office. Observe how the staff interacts with clients and pets. Are they warm toward the animals and owners? The employees should have an affinity for animals.

Sit in the waiting area and introduce yourself to other clients. Find out if they are happy with the services and staff. Also, inquire about prices to verify it is within your budget.

If you feel uncomfortable during

your visit, consider taking your services elsewhere.

Finding the best vet for you and your pet will take time and research.

You should put the same effort into finding a doctor for your animal as you would in finding one for yourself.

The bottom line is that your pet’s health is a cooperative undertaking between you and your veterinarian.

Finding the perfect vet for you and your furry, scaly or feathered friend will ensure your pet is with you for years to come.

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NEW CLIENTS WELCOMED Publication of the Folsom Telegraph • HOW TO GUIDE

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Choose a pest control company S ometimes an invasion of ants, spiders, mice, rats, roaches or termites can become unmanageable, perhaps even threatening the structure of your home. Everyone has problems with pests occasionally and sometimes the solutions are simple, such as removing trash or securing screens on the windows. When it gets to be a concern, you should seek the help of a professional from a pest management company.

The right pest control company can handle the problem quickly, and often times with an eco-friendly solution.

Here are some tips to help you search for a company in your area.

If the workers seem inexperienced or you don’t trust their information, look elsewhere. A quality pest control company will not only help you with your current situation, it will also help prevent future pest concerns.

A list of companies The first step is to identify local companies who can resolve your concern. Check Google, YELP, Angie’s List, and even the advertising section of your local newspaper. Identify who has a reputation you can trust, local family owned businesses tend to provide a higher quality service. You may also consider asking friends, family, and local businesses in the area who they use to keep pests away.

Next, look at customer service reviews. If they’ve already done a good job for a neighbor, chances are they will do the same for you.

20

COURTESY

Identify who has a reputation that is trustworthy and offers quality service.

Types of treatments Contact your chosen companies directly, and narrow your list further based on their response.

Ask them what types of products they use when treating a residence.

Are they safe for kids and pets?

Powders, liquids, aerosols, granules and other types of solutions vary in their effectiveness and toxicity level.

If you have children or pets,

this should be your company of choice’s #1 priority. Do they offer an eco-friendly non-toxic alternative? Eco-friendly companies will have all natural products that are based in essential oils that are certified organic, and will not harm children or pets. These treatments might include citrus based agents and trap based rodent control.

HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph

Research Prior to contacting a company, educate yourself about common pests in your area.

Check to see if these pests are on your property. You might find evidence such as droppings or other indications that they are in your yard or home. Is the company you’ve chosen licensed by the proper state authority? Here, in California, the authority is the

Structural Pest Control Board.

Evaluation the service providers you’ve chosen by their response time, price, process and other information you’ve gathered. You should contact at least two different companies to compare. The company you choose should be willing to do a full inspection of your home prior to your first service. Listen to their sales pitch and ask questions. Reliable, reputable companies will always answer your questions honestly. Finally, trust your instincts. If the workers seem inexperienced or you don’t trust their information, look elsewhere. A quality pest control company will not only help you with your current situation, it will also help prevent future pest concerns.

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Auxiliary Spillway complete

BY RACHEL ZIRIN OF THE TELEGRAPH

After nine years, the completion ceremony for the Folsom Dam Auxiliary Spillway was held Tuesday morning with various representatives and officials who played a large role in its development.

The event was hosted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Sacramento District and U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.

“Drought was a big help for this project. The water was pretty low so a lot of the work they thought would have to be done under water was actually done in dry conditions.”

Tyler Stalker, deputy chief of Public Affairs for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Autumn preSton in AmADor: cAStle No guns on campus pumCALPIA new tech training center pkin feSopens HAllowe tivAl en At Bo rjon win ery BILL SULLIVAN • FOLSOM TELEGRAPH

Rep. Doris Matsui, California’s Sixth Congressional District, speaks at Tuesday’s ceremony held at Folsom Dam.

Standing 158 feet high, taller than the Statue of Liberty, the Folsom Da m Au x i l ia r y Spillway is an impressive site to see.

The project was identified as a necessity after the f lood events of 1986 and 1997 in the Sacramento area. In 2005, Rep. • SEE SPILLWAY PAGE A10

BEHIND PRISON WALLS

New law bans school employees from carrying firearms

BY BILL SULLIVAN OF THE TELEGRAPH

folsom lake

A newly signed California law w ill force t he Folsom C or dov a Un i f ie d S c ho ol District to end its policy of allowing select employees to store and access guns on campus in the time of need.

On Monday, Oct. 16, school officials released a statement fol low i ng G over nor Jer r y

Brown’s signing of AB 424 into law over the weekend. The bill, aut hore d by Sac r a mento A ssembly member Kev i n McCarty, expands the ban of firearms in a school zone to include school employees.

Previously, a school district superintendent, or an equivalent school authority, could give select employees permis• SEE GUNS PAGE A10

FCUSD test scores continue to rise TELEGRAPH STAFF

And reAch An Audience of more thAn 40,000

22

HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph

increase in the number of students meeting or exceeding state math standards, and a 3 percent increase in students meeting or exceeding EL A standards.

“Our mission is to provide a pathway to success for every child so they can cross the finish line of graduation prepared to pursue their dreams,” said Superintendent Sa ra h • SEE SCORES PAGE A11

BILL SULLIVAN • FOLSOM TELEGRAPH

Since the start of the program, 108 inmates have gone through it. There are three different rehabilitative programs within this facility — CAD, Revit and Inventor.

CAD Program is only one for female offenders

BY RACHEL ZIRIN OF THE TELEGRAPH

T he Ca l i for n ia P r ison Industry Authority (CALPIA) hosted the grand opening celebration on a new tech-

nology training center for of fenders at t he Folsom Wo m e n’s F a c i l i t y l a s t Thursday, Oct. 12. The morning was f illed w it h k ind words from speakers, as well

as exciting discussions with various female offenders.

CALPIA worked with the California Department of Corrections and • SEE PRISON PAGE A11

Hundreds celebrate opening of Johnny Cash Trail

BY BILL SULLIVAN OF THE TELEGRAPH

Saturday was a day of celebration for the City of Folsom and the family of the legendary Johnny Cash. City officials and dignitaries joined with Cash’s closest family to officially cut the ribbon and open the second phase of the two-and-a-half-mile Johnny Cash Trail for hundreds of runners and cyclists to enjoy just moments later.

“If my dad could see all you people here celebrating him like this 14 years after he died, he would be overwhelmed,” said Cash’s daughter, Cindy Cash. “He was a very humble man and appreciative of everything. If he knew this would be happening here 14 years after he died he would be saying, ‘Why me? Why did they

“If my dad could see all you people here celebrating him like this 14 years after he died, he would be overwhelmed.”

Cindy Cash, Johnny Cash’s daughter

want to do this for me?’”

The Johnny Cash Trail will set the stage for a world-class public art experience to celebrate and honor one of the world’s most famous country musicians and his influence on Folsom. The project includes eight larger-than-life public art pieces and a three-acre park honoring the man BILL SULLIVAN • FOLSOM TELEGRAPH in black.

Johnny Cash’s daughter, Cindy Cash, spends a moment next to • SEE TRAIL PAGE A12 her father’s name at the Johnny Cash Art Trail celebration.

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Students in Folsom Cordova schools continue to ma ke progress and, district-wide, perform above state and local averages in English language arts (ELA) and math, according to the new 2016-17 state test results released this month.

Locally, FCUSD experienced the largest year-over-year rates of growth with a 2 percent

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Choose a carpet cleaner..............................................................2 Choose a garden center...............................................................4 Choose a contractor......................................................................6 Choose a jeweler.............................................................................8 Choose a preschool.......................................................................10 Choose a solar energy company...............................................12 Choose an HVAC company.........................................................14 Choose windows and glass.........................................................16 Choose a veterinarian...................................................................18 Choose a pest control company..............................................20 Obtain a small business loan....................................................22

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HOW TO GUIDE 2017 • Publication of the Folsom Telegraph