How To Guide -- Ask The Expect March 2012

MARCH 23, 2012

To LO UB DU OR UG N TL O I VDIANYG LE ES

Loudoun

Living March 2012

How

G u I D E

How To CHOOSE THE RIGHT PROFESSIONALS for your needs in: Air Conditioning & Heating • Alarm Systems • Attorneys • Auto Repair • Auctioneers • Auto Transmissions • Banking Bathroom Remodeling • Builders • Cabinetry • Awnings • Orthodontist • Child Care Centers • Carpet • Catering Wood floors • Granite • Chiropractors • Carpet Cleaners • Churches • Driveway/Patio • Plastic Surgeons Window Treatments • Dance Studios • Childrens Fitness • Bridal Services • Deck Builder • Dentist • General Contractors Cellular Service • Financial Planners • Fencing • Fitness Centers • Chimney Cleaning • Gutters • Furnishings Weight Loss Centers • Closet Organizing • Computer Service • Home Theatres • House Cleaning • Insurance Convalescent / Nursing • Retirement Community • Jewelers • Karate Schools • Kennels • Kitchen Remodeling

35

N YG L LE OE U SD BO UU RN G LT IOVDI A

36

MARCH 23, 2012

How To Choose A Child Care Center

44675 Cape Court #189, Ashburn, VA 20147

March 3rd

OPEN HOUSE 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Freedom of Expression Bring us your Rx today

State Licensed, Nationally Certified, & Just Plain Fun Opticians!

EyetopiaInc.com 703-443-6410

@EyetopiaInc Follow us on Facebook & Twitter

223 Loudoun St. SE East Village

When it comes to finding someone to provide care for your child at a commercial center or preschool there are some things in common to be looking for. Foremost you want to ensure you are creating a safe environment where your child can thrive.

There are several important questions: What kind of child care or school environment are you looking for? Do you want a large school with lots of active children or a quieter environment with just a few kids? Should the school be located closer to your workplace or your home? What kind of activities do you want provided? And what is your budget?

You will also want to start looking early as the centers have limited spaces and you’ll often find a waiting list. Plus, you don’t want to feel rushed with making this important decision.

You will want to visit more than one place to tour the facility, meet the staff and spend time watching the children’s activities and interactions.

Find out about the educational philosophy. Some schools approach learning through play-based activities, some introduce reading and math earlier than others and other schools incorporate multiple philosophies. Some preschools follow specific educational models such as the Montessori Method, the Waldorf

approach, Dr. Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences, Dr. Mel Levine’s All Kinds of Minds and the Reggio Emilia system and more.

On your tour, pay close attention to these elements: • How large are the classes and what is the teacher-child ratio? The state regulates minimum staffing standards, but you may want a facility that goes beyond that level.

• What is the look and feel of the school?

Is it clean and organized? What kind of work is up on the walls? Is there a gym or play yard?

• Do students seem happy? Are they busy or bored? Would your child be happy there?

• What kinds of activities are students doing? Are children working cooperatively in groups or individually?

Find out if the center has been accredited by a national organization. Providers that are accredited have met voluntary standards for child care that are higher than most state licensing requirements.

Also ask how long the staff members have worked there. Turnover can be an important factor in your child’s success as getting used to new caregivers, or losing a contact with a favorite one, can take time and energy away from learning new things.

How To Choose An Optician The optical world is comprised of three Os. The ophthalmologists are the medical doctors generally specializing in eye health, diseases of the eye, and vision disorders. Optometrists specialize in family eye care and general eye health evaluations.

Finally, opticians take the written eyeglass or contact lens prescription and fill them accordingly.

When choosing an optician to fill an eyeglass prescription it is a good idea to make sure you are working with a certified or licensed professional.

A good optician will start your eyeglass selection process with a brief interview about your general lifestyle and answer any questions you may have about your written prescription.

Further, your optician should be able to counsel you about the appropriate eyeglass lens and coating choices and answer any questions you may have about how proper lens technology can assist your visual acuity

and general lifestyle needs. Once the optician understands your individual eyewear needs the frame selection process can proceed.

An optician with experience in frame buying will know their inventory and be able to clearly direct you through a selection of eyeglass frames that are appropriate for you and your written prescription.

If you are greeted at your local optical shop and told to look for a frame on your own or with little direction or interest in viewing your written prescription first you should turn for the door and seek help elsewhere.

This interaction with your professional optician is critical to being a happy and successful eyeglass wearer since you will want to look good and see well. It is as important to seek a professional optician to fill your eyeglass prescription as it is to feel confident in your eye doctor.

Confidence is your key to success.

[Paige Buscema, ABOC, VA licensed Optician, President, Eyetopia, Inc.]

MARCH 23, 2012

NY G L LEOE US D BO UU RN G LT IOVDI A

37

How To Landscape With Color When I look at a house, outdoor room and/or patio, I don’t just see black and white.

I see a backdrop of green with a splash of color in front and height on the ends of the house that add depth. A wall with no windows might have a trellis with a climbing vine. A Climbing Magnolia, Jasmine, Clematis or Pyracantha, just something to add some interest. A palette of color that extends your inside out.

Start with your backdrop and make sure you use an evergreen to add winter interest.

When everything else is dormant, you will still have a green color to accent the stone, brick or siding on your house. You might want to add another layer with an evergreen that turns red for the winter. Firepower Nandina or Heavenly Bamboo Nandina would be a good choice. They will add the splash of red to accent your green backdrop.

Then figure out what to plant at the corners of your house. Do you want a splash of color with a Crape Myrtle or a splash of blue with a Hoopsi Blue Spruce? This is a choice of deciduous or Evergreen. Do the corners need height of 25 to 30 feet or something that maxes out at 15 feet?

Maybe in a shady spot, an Endless Summer Hydrangea or in a sunny spot a Drift Rose or a Knockout Rose.

If you want a shrub that is deer resistant, Little Princess Spirea, Goldmound Spirea

I prefer plants that bloom from spring to frost. Those that add that palette of color that goes on and on and on.

or other varieties of spirea, would be a great choice.

If a shrub is not the right choice, you

can add a variety of perennials in front that will add the “wow factor.” There are everlasting daylilies, like Happy Returns and Stella Dora that bloom yellow until the first frost.

Pink flowers like Dianthus or Delosperma are another great choice.

Then we have the perennials that deer most likely will not eat. The purple and blue perennials, which include salvia, sage, lavender and catmint.

There are endless possibilities.

Last but not least, you can’t forget to add some annuals.

Annuals can be added at entrances or in pots. I like to add annuals at the beginning of the sidewalk and at my beds at my front door. I add pots with vines, spike grasses, wave petunias, verbena and many other choices to accent the doors. If you have a wraparound porch, don’t forget the hanging baskets.

You want to make your house inviting and annuals are the “icing on the cake.”

Remember the “great outdoors” is an extension of your home. Bring the colors you have inside, out. Don’t limit yourself to four walls. [ Sherry Epling, Epling Landscaping]

We Are in Your Neighborhood!

Let epLing Be Your “SingLe Source” for all your outdoor liviNg Landscape Design & laNdscapiNg Needs!

s

d Start scale hat we

The most important thing to remember is not to plant to close to your house.

Then my favorite part arrives, the perennial or shrub color that will be added to the front of your beds.

Hardscapes Landscapes Hardscapes

Water Features Landscapes Landscapes Call today to make

Landscape Design Landscape Design Hardscapes

Water Features Water Features Hardscapes

epling Landscaping &“Lawn Service, inc.Should specializes in a wide range of hardscape projects, and we are a Call today to make Our Philosophy: All Landscaping Start Call today to make Ourcertified Philosophy: “Allpaver’s Landscaping Start your outdoor space interlocking installer. Should Let us design the perfect patio, driveway or retaining wall for you! your outdoor space with a Plan”. A well defined plan that is to scale your outdoor space with a Plan”.

A well defined plan that is to scale become a reality. become a reality.

helps clarify what the client expects and what we helps clarify what the client expects and what we need to do to deliver those expectations. need to do to deliver those expectations.

become a reality.

Family Owned And Operated Since 1988 I Call 540-554-8228 I www.eplinglandscaping.com

N YG L LE OE U SD BO UU RN G LT IOVDI A

38

thank you loudoun county for voting us your #1 Painting contractor Family Owned and Operated ~ Serving Loudoun County Since 1997 Over 35 Years Experience • Custom Residential Interior & Exterior • Exterior Wood Replacement • Wallpaper Removal • Drywall Repair • Inside and Out Gutter Cleaning • Power Washing Siding and Decks • Deck Staining and Sealing • Honest and Dependable Mechanics • Every Job Owner Supervised • Licensed and Insured • Free Estimates

joepaints@verizon.net

Our primary focus is servicing the needs of residential customers located in and around Loudoun County. We are committed to providing you with the best work and customer service available.

Joe Fleming Painting Contractors 703-771-1494 • Cell 703-431-7751 www.joeflemingpainting.com

Take A Vacation From Cleaning!

We’re in the new millennium but wouldn’t you prefer an old fashion job where pride is number one? We would like you to experience a cleaning with that in mind. We value each and every client and take pride in providing top quality cleaning services. Located in Loudoun County Virginia, Ocean Breeze Cleaning Services offers you efficient, affordable and reliable service.

Kitchen: Counter tops Microwaves Wipe outside cabinets Sweep & mop floor Empty trash bins Clean stove top & burners Scrub sinks

Bathrooms: Clean counter tops Clean/wash/disinfect toilets Clean/wash/disinfect sinks Dust lighting fixtures Empty trash bins Sweep & mop floors Clean mirrors & vanities Polish fixtures Wipe down walls

Bedrooms: Make beds & change linens Dust furniture Dust pictures & lamps Remove cobwebs Empty trash bins Clean window sills/ceiling fans

All Rooms: Clean mirrors & TV screens Clean sliding glass doors Dust & polish furniture Dust & wipe blinds Remove cobwebs Dust baseboards Vacuum carpets & rugs Clean ashtrays Clean vents

Additional services available upon request: Refrigerator cleaning, stove/oven cleaning, move in/move out, and more.

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU: To provide you with the highest quality cleaning possible! We take pride in our service and will make sure we exceed your expectations on every visit. Ocean Breeze Cleaning Services goes the extra step to make sure you feel pampered in your own home.

AUGUST 2011: Ocean Breeze Cleaning Services wins viewers choice award for Best Cleaning Service in DC suburbs in the August issue of I AM Modern magazine. Thanks to everyone who voted for us!

Call for a free estimate. Contact Theresa

703.729.0447

www.oceanbreezecleaning.com Gift Certificates Available.

Welcome Us into YoUr Home. We Will not let YoU DoWn!

MARCH 23, 2012

How To Choose A Painter The exterior of your home may be show- ules for the project and payment procedures. ing wear. Interior walls may be dirty and dull.

Maybe you just want a fresh new look. You need to paint. However, the job looms large in front of you. You tell yourself, “It’s no big deal, I can do it myself and save a lot of bucks.”

Then, reality sets in.

Where will you find the time to get the job done? Will the job be done right if I do it myself? Many homeowners are making the decision to hire a painter to do the job.

To locate the names of reputable contractors, there are many sources of information: friends, relatives, architects and design professionals, and local paint supply stores.

To make an educated decision, you need some specific information about any person or firm you are considering hiring.

Certifications: Always verify the contractor is licensed and insured. Quality contracting firms will be only too happy to provide you with copies of their certificates of insurance.

They should provide bonding information and documentation of safety training and compliance programs.

Contracts: Reputable contractors will encourage the use of a written contract. This contract should clearly explain the scope of the work to be performed. It should also cover such items as surfaces to be painted, methods and extent of surface preparation, time sched-

Knowing the total scope of the work enables you to carefully evaluate the different bids you may receive with the proper information and keep them on a level playing field. The contract serves to protect both you and the contractor.

References: Obtain a list of references from the prospective contractor. This list should include the contact person, address, and telephone number of the previous client.

Follow up on this list with a phone call.

Remember, the contractor will not give you a bad reference. Therefore, ask references if they know of any other work this contractor has performed. Be sure to ask whether the contractor and employees treated them professionally and with respect. The references you are interested in should be projects similar in size and scope to yours.

Warranties: Discuss any guarantee or warranty programs the contractor may offer.

Ask about the manufacturer’s warranty on the products to be used on your project. The use of high quality products is as important as the selection and performance of the contractor.

Once you have made your selection, step back and give the professional room to execute the project. You have both done your homework, so give the professional the opportunity to meet and exceed your expectations.

How To Choose A Cleaning Service To make ends meet these days, many times you’ll find both husband and wife working outside the home. And after coming home from a hard day’s work, who wants to spend time cleaning the house and doing other chores? Sometimes it takes all the energy we have just to make dinner.

Even if there’s time to do the daily chores, such as washing dishes, doing laundry and making beds, there comes a time when the house needs a more thorough cleaning. If we don’t have the time or energy to do it ourselves, it’s okay to look outside the home for some help. But how do you choose a cleaning service?

The first step is to think about and write down what house cleaning chores you want done in your home by a professional service.

Also think about what rooms you want someone to clean. Decide how often you want someone to clean the rooms. Might you want someone every day? Once a week? Once a month?

Then figure out your budget. Most companies decide their cost on the number of rooms to be cleaned, the type of work and frequency of cleaning.

The next step is to make a list of potential cleaning services to hire. The best way to get started is to ask your friends, neighbors and co-workers for cleaning services they recommend. Then gather information about each of the services. Make sure the company

is licensed and insured. This is important if the employees will be in your home while you are away. Also find how long the company has been in business.

Ask what types of cleaners they use, especially if you or your family members have allergies. Also ask what supplies, if any, you need to have on hand. Also ask about contracts for the service. Do you need to sign up for a year’s worth of service or can it be something shorter? Find out what the company’s procedures are if you are unhappy with the work being performed. And ask about what type of training the company provides for the employees. Also ask about the background checks, if any, the company performs on their employees and find out if the same person will come each week.

Find out about the prices for the services you want. Does the company charge an hourly rate or do they charge a rate for the job?

Pay attention to the quality of the contact that you experienced with the companies.

Were they polite on the phone? Did they raise questions that you hadn’t thought of? Did they provide you with some alternatives?

With the information that you’ve collected during your interviews, one or more companies will rise to the top. Remember, too, if you want your expectations met it’s important that you communicate them to the company’s customer service people.

MARCH 23, 2012

I NA GY LLEOEUSDBOUURNG LTI OV D

How To Choose A Dentist The selection of a dentist is an important decision for your family. Making the right choice requires more work than simply scanning the phone book listings.

To make a choice that you can smile about for years to come, take time to learn about the experience, expertise and philosophy of dentists in your area.

Dentists are licensed practitioners who hold either a dental surgery degree (DSS) or the equivalent of a doctor of dental medicine degree (DMD). Although the names of the degrees are different, the education the dentists complete is the same. Dentists have completed a minimum of two years of predental college work followed by four years of dental school. State licensure is achieved after passing national and state board examinations. Dentist who specialize in specific fields complete two or more years of additional training and can become board-certified by passing additional tests.

There are eight recognized dental specialties: • Dental Public Health: a focus on control and prevention of dental disease and the general promotion of dental health; • Endodontics: including root canal therapy and treatment of diseases of root pulp; • Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology: the diagnosis of tumors, other diseases, as well as head and neck injuries; • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: including tooth extraction, and surgery to treat diseases and injuries affecting the mouth or jaw; • Orthodontics: the correction of tooth irregularities, making sure the mouth can close with the teeth in the proper positions; • Pediatric Dentistry: specializing in the care of infants and children; • Peridontics: treating diseases of the gums; and • Prosthodontics: the correction of oral dysfunction with the use of crowns, bridges, dentures and other devices.

After determining the areas of specialty that you or your family will need, it is time to schedule a visit with some local dentists who meet those criteria.

One of the most important factors in building a positive relationship with your dentist is to find one that is easy to talk with and takes time to listen to your concerns.

Schedule an introductory meeting and ask lots of questions. In addition to understanding the dentist’s philosophy on prevention

and treatment, take time to learn about the practice’s participation in continuing education. The treatments in the field continue to advance rapidly as new techniques and equipment are developed.

Good dentists focus on prevention. In your initial evaluation, the dentist should offer a detailed report of the problems or areas of concern and propose an understandable, long-term plan for fixing them.

The plan should not only address current concerns—a cavity, poor gum tissue or inadequate brushing techniques—but also focus on preventing other problems from emerging later. Your dentist should be able to prioritize a treatment schedule to help you distinguish problems needing immediate attention from those that are less urgent.

Often, treatment can be phased in over time. Be sure you understand the consequences of delaying treatment.

Because fees and insurance coverage almost always become issues, you’ll want to select a dentist who accepts your dental insurance. However, don’t let that be the penultimate factor in making your selection.

Look for a practice that will work with you to maximize the coverage provided by your carrier, but don’t expect insurance to pick up all of the charges, few plans do. At the same time, take the time to understand the cost of procedures and how much out-of-pocket charges you’ll face at the time the dentist develops a treatment plan. Charges can vary greatly among different practices and you need to feel confident that the costs are reasonable. Another frequent tip is to not let the cost of dental treatment delay needed care. Generally, the problems only get worse and more expensive as time passes.

A growing area of the dental industry is cosmetic dentistry. These days, it is not just about filling cavities and telling you to floss more. It’s about the smile, too. Many dentist offices now offer teeth whitening services.

The use of composite and porcelain tooth veneers placed over the front of teeth also is becoming more common to correct oddly shaped, chipped or crooked teeth. The result is a bright, long-lasting, perfect smile.

Where bridges and dentures are widely used, dental implants have become a more common approach to replacing a missing tooth or even all teeth. Implants are false teeth anchored by titanium screws set in the jaw. Bone grafting may be required in advance of the surgery to set the anchors, but once in place they will last a lifetime.

Voted One of Northe

Voted One of Northern Virginia’s

TOP DENTISTS

Voted One of Northern Virginia’s

TOP DENTISTS

39

T

Ike Lan

Family

ww

New Patient

Includes: Routine & 4 Bitewing full set of X-ra

Enjoy a unique and relaxing dental experience in the soothing atmosphere of a beach or mountain retreat, complete with bird aviaries.

Cosmetic Dentistry -including Veneers

Invisalign for Adults and Teens

Restorative Dentistry

Children’s Dentistry

SAV

NO

Coupon Must Be

Complime

Teeth Whitening Hygiene & Preventative Care Orthodont Enjoy aDentures unique and relaxing dental experience in the soothing Flexible Payment Options atmosphere of a beach or mountain retreat, complete with bird aviaries.

Soft-Tissue Laser Treatments Implants Crowns & Bridges

Evening & Saturday Hours

SAV

Invsalign in forWelcome Adults & Teens Cosmetic DentistryVeneersdental experience Orthodontics Adultsincluding and Children Emergencies Enjoy aforunique and relaxing the soothing Children’s Dentistry Restorative Dentistry atmosphere of a beach or mountain retreat, complete with bird aviaries.

44110 Ashburn Village Shopping Plaza | Suite 166 | As Teeth Whitening Hygiene & Preventative Care • CosmetiC D entistry• inVisalign for aDults Flexible Payment Options Dentures inCluDing VImplants eneers & teens Soft-Tissue Laser Treatments Evening’s&D Saturday Hours CrownsD&entistry Bridges • restoratiVe • CHilDren entistry Emergencies Welcome Orthodontics for Adults & Children • Hygiene & PreVentatiVe • teetH wHitening

Care New Patients Cleaning Special • DIncludes: entures Routine Cleaning, Examination & 4 Bitewing X-rays. If necessary, full set of • imPlants X-rays only $70 additional.

• Crowns & BriDges SAVE $155 Reg. $250 • ortHoDontiCs for Now $95 aCoupon DultsMust &BeCPresented HilDren for Special Offers New Patients Cleaning Special Complimentary Cosmetic OR Orthodontic Consultation SAVE $155 Reg. $250

Includes: Routine Cleaning, Examination & 4 Bitewing X-rays. If necessary, full set of X-rays only $70 additional.

SAVE $125 Now $95

Coupon Must Be Presented for Special Offers

• soft-tissue laser In-Office treatments Tooth • eVening & Whitening saturDay Hours (Take-Home Trays Included) • flexiBle Payment oPtions SAVE $150 Reg. $600 • finanCing aVailaBle Now $450 • eCoupon mergenCies w elCome Must Be Presented for Special Offers NewIn-Office Ortho Patients

Complete Orthodontic Treatment (Incluidng Retainers)

Tooth Whitening

(Take-Home Trays Included)

$400 SAVE $150Off Reg. $600

(Traditional Orthodontic Treatment & Now $450at $3200) Invisalign Starting

Coupon Must Be Presented for Special Offers

Coupon Must Be Presented for Special Offers

Ike Lans, D.D.S. and Associates Family Dentistry & Orthodontics

703.297.8159 703.729.1400

www.lansfamilydentistry.com a44110 Ashburn Shopping Plaza I Suite 166166 I Ashburn, VA VA 20147 44110 Ashburn Village Shopping Plaza | Suite | Ashburn, 20147

LLEOEUSDBOUURNG LTI OV DI N AG Y

40

MARCH 23, 2012

How To Choose Healthy Pet Food Itchy skin, bad breath, lackluster coat, diabetes, cancer, early onset of arthritis. Why has this become the “norm” in our household pets? The answer is simple: processed food.

The pet food industry itself is young.

Not even a century old, the pet food giants have brilliantly convinced us that a species of animal who has lived over thousands of years on this earth cannot survive properly without it. Or that us, the uneducated pet owners (while smart enough to feed our own babies without a dietician at our house) are not smart enough to feed our pets without relying on what comes from scientifically formulated cans or bags.

We also hear “don’t feed your dog human food, it’s not pet food.” Whoa, wait a minute, if this chicken isn’t good enough for my dog then why am I eating it? Not that I am suggesting only feeding chicken to your dog for the rest of its life is OK, but I don’t think a scrap or two is something to be so alarmed about.

The truth is processed pet food is really about convenience. It offers pet owners the ability to feed their dog or cat a meal without having to prepare it themselves.

But this convenience shouldn’t compromise quality. Processed foods that con-

tain artificial colorings, preservatives, flavor enhancers and too many carbohydrates actually rob your pet’s system of health and maintenance.

Our dogs’ and cats’ digestive systems are designed to consume and utilize fresh meat protein, not the overuse of protein derived from plant sources. Too much of these plant sourced proteins produce large voluminous stools, excessive gas and the need to feed a lot more cups or cans per day.

Over the course of months or years this stress from unnatural digestive processes takes a toll on the immune and purification systems leading to the chronic conditions plaguing so many of our animals today.

It isn’t just about the “crude protein” amount, it is about where that protein came from. Animal protein (meat) is what your pet’s body is designed to digest. It needs and utilizes meat to thrive and these little creatures crave it.

The last time I checked, the fox raided the hen house, not the cornfield.

So what about canned food? We hear the myth: “it makes them picky.” The opposite is true, most pets love the texture and the moisture.

It’s not that they become picky it’s that

Unleash Your Pet’s Full Potential

they are enjoying this often overlooked and avoided benefit. But again the quality of can food varies and the artificial colorings, food enhancers, hidden sugars and additions of many soy or vegetable texturized

signs, jingles and themes, the best selection of exotic pet food offerings from around the world are at our fingertips like never before.

Every brand out there thinks it’s the perfect food for your pet. But what is the right choice?

When deciding what pet foods I would carry in my store, I concentrated on foods that were closer to what your pet is designed to digest, supplements that would aid, repair and enhance your pet’s life as well as yummy treats that would tantalize their taste buds but not add inches to their waist line. The result is a well-balanced product line of the highest quality without the empty marketing catch phrases and come-ons that lure buyers into a false sense of security.

Our pets depend on us, just like our children. When considering your own pet’s diet, you should start by asking “what did I really feed my pet today?”

The convenience the pet food industry offers us is great for our busy lives, but remember when grabbing that bag or can make sure it’s a digestible source of quality food that you’re really buying.

Our dogs’ and cats’ digestive systems are designed to consume and utilize fresh meat protein, not the overuse of protein derived from plant sources. proteins and meat by-products need to be avoided. High quality can food will contain better cuts of meat, very few carbohydrates and sometimes a limited amount of fruits, vegetables or berries.

The breadth of pet food choices available to us is really astounding and is the envy of the world. With flashing lights and

[Kim Correnti, DogGone Natural]

#1 in Ashburn for Pet Care,

Wellness & Premium Quality Products Pet owners are learning that the ingredients in their dog’s food and treats aren’t what they thought - and they are switching to DogGone Natural for high-quality, natural and organic products at affordable prices.

You probably didn’t know that many popular dog foods and treats are made with ingredients that are inferior to your pets digestion. These can cause upset bellies, allergies and skin irritations. On the other hand, DogGone Natural carries products that offer high-quality animal protein with rich, active nutrients that provide the building blocks your pet needs to thrive today and tomorrow.

TRUSTED ADVISORS IN PET WELLNESS

NER W WIN IN

NER W WIN IN

WIN NE

WIN NE

R NE

NER W WIN IN

R

R NE

Best of

E A Z I N M A G

R

NER W WIN IN

R

R NE

Norther

WIN NE

Best of

E A Z I N M A G

R

R NE

Norther

WIN NE

Best of

E A Z I N M A G

R

R NE

NER W WIN IN

Untitled-1.indd 1

Norther

WIN NE

...Award Winning

NER W WIN IN

20nV11irginia 20nV08 20nV09 irginia irginia

R

R NE

WIN NE

44031 Ashburn Shopping Plaza #287 Ashburn, Virginia 20147 703.858.1112 doggonenatural.com

3/16/12 12:50:24 PM

MARCH 23, 2012

NY G L LEOE US D BO UU RN G LT IOVDI A

How To Identify Carpet Sales Gimmicks

41

Loudoun Valley Floors… …Just West of All The High Prices!

Thank You Loudoun County for voting us #1 Flooring Store for 8 Years in the Leesburg Today, “The Best of Loudoun Poll”!!

Carpet • Wood • Laminate • Cork • Vinyl & Linoleum Rugs • Bamboo • Rubber • Sisal • Window Treatments U P TO 3 YE A R S F I N A N C I N G

$100 OFF “$39 installation.” “Buy one room, get the other free.” “We’ll beat any advertised price by 15%” You hear it everyday.

On the TV, in the newspaper, on the radio…gimmicks, gimmicks, gimmicks, all aimed at getting you to shop with a specific retailer. But how do you sort through all the gimmicks and get to the truth. How do you know what is true and what is just a lure?

The answer is simple. Always read and understand the small print and disclaimers. Questions you need to ask any legitimate retailer are: 1) Does the buy one room, get the other room free include all labor or materials only?

2) What is the square footage minimum and/or maximum?

3) Does it include take up and haul away of existing carpet & pad or is this an extra charge?

4) Does it include moving furniture and putting it back?

5) Does it include carpeting the steps or is this extra?

6) Is this price good if I wait a week or two or is it good today only?

7) Is the “Special” labor rate included in my price or do I have to pay the regular price now and then wait for a rebate check?

Also you want to make sure when you are offered “the best pad” they confirm whether it is the best pad for your installation or is it just the best pad they offer. Most carpet mill warranties put into writing the recommended pad for the specific carpet to be installed. Ask to see it.

Also read over the warranty and make sure it confirms all the things the sales person has told you the carpet has covered.

Another sales gimmick used to get you to buy now is “next day installation.”

Make sure if you go this route that you are really getting the best carpet for your specific need as well as not being “high pressured” into buying today. Most next day installations are based on in stock items only and the selection can be very limited. Although the quickness of getting it the next day often appears attractive, keep in mind that most carpet mills will have any carpet you order to your retailer within two or three weeks.

Lastly, and most importantly, find a flooring retailer that you are comfortable with and can answer all your questions.

[Craig T. Lee – F.C.I.T.S Certified Carpet Inspector on staff carpet expert at Loudoun Valley Floors.]

Carpet any style

$100 or 10% OFF

Whichever is greater (materials only)

(minimum order $1000)

Some exclusions apply. Coupons cannot be combined with any other offer.

Exp. 03/31/2012 Must present coupon at time of purchase

$100 OFF

all hardwood flooring, any color, any style (minimum order $1500)

Some exclusions apply. Coupons cannot be combined with any other offer.

Exp. 03/31/2012 Must present coupon at time of purchase

We’ll Bring Samples Right to Your Home!

129 N. Bailey Lane #C • Purcellville, VA Loudounvalleyfloors.com

Loudoun Valley Floors will be donating a portion of our sales to Smile Train in memory of Sadie Ablard

540.338.4300 • 703.777.8056

Locally owned and operated

Hours: Mon. Thru Fri. 9am-6pm Sat. 9am-3pm • Evenings by Appt.

Carpet Cleaning Cleaning •• Tile Tile & & Grout Grout Cleaning Cleaning Carpet Carpet Re-stretching Re-stretching and and Repair Repair Carpet

LLEOEUSDBOUURNG LTI OV DI N AG Y

42

MARCH 23, 2012

How Do You Treat Allergies?

The best first step in the diagnosis of allergies is a thorough health history and physical examination. If you have allergy symptoms that occur in association with exposure to certain things, that is highly significant. Allergy diagnostic tests, such as skin tests or blood tests, provide similar information and merely confirm what your health history tells the doctor. If your doctor were to rely exclusively on the results of skin or blood tests (without history and physical examination), you could be diagnosed as having an allergic problem that you don’t necessarily have.

Skin tests, in most situations, are preferable because the results are available immediately, they are less expensive and they are more sensitive to subtle allergies.

A blood test is appropriate in certain situations, particularly when you cannot suspend antihistamine therapy which can inhibit skin tests, have widespread skin disease making skin testing difficult, are so sensitive to the allergen that the test might be risky or cannot be skin tested for some other reason.

Allergy shots are an effective and safe treatment for people who suffer from a variety of allergic diseases, including allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma and insect stings. The treatment—also known as immunotherapy or allergy immunization—works by introducing small amounts of purified substances to which the person is allergic, in gradually increasing

Ferraiolo Fitness An Investment in Yourself www.ferrfit.com Award winning personal training studio | Historic downtown Leesburg location Private, customized training | Home training visits | Flexible scheduling*

GET F T NOW

*By appointment only

WAR M WE ATHER IS COMING

Ralph Ferraiolo | Certified Personal Trainer | ralph@ferrfit.com 216 Edwards Ferry Road | Leesburg, VA 20176 |703.626.1075

amounts. The allergy shots improve the patient’s natural resistance to the allergens and minimize or eliminate the need for medications.

Like all medical treatments, allergy shots (immunotherapy) can have side effects. Your doctor will discuss this with you in detail.

Under no circumstances should you consider allergy shots without at least an attempt at avoidance of the troublesome allergen. For instance, cat allergy shots are no substitute for cat avoidance. Some allergens, though, such as grass pollen, are almost unavoidable.

Regularly scheduled, repeated exposure to small amounts of an allergen can lead to immunity, whereas infrequent and erratic exposure does not confer immunity but increases the likelihood of producing allergen sensitization.

Irregular exposure to allergens can lead to the production of antibodies. The presence of these antibodies, when exposed to an allergen, can lead to an allergic reaction.

In allergy shots or immunotherapy, the allergen exposure is closely regulated and given on a scheduled basis. Small amounts of allergens are given over a period of time to build up to maintenance doses. This leads to the production of blocking antibodies and a decrease in the level of allergic or IgE-mediated antibodies.

[Srinagesh Paluvoi, MD, Council of American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.]

How to Choose A Personal Trainer

How: You can find a personal trainer by using Google (personal trainers, Leesburg) or at your local gym. If you search online, be sure the company you are doing business with is in fact from your area. Many Web searches will pull up businesses located out of state, who scramble to find a ‘warm body’ once you settle on their service. They can do little to regulate the quality of the trainers they provide. So, although it is fine to search online, you are better off using trainers established in your area.

Your local gym can be a useful source. But you should realize a few things. Gyms all manage their personal training services differently. A gym can charge clients $100 per hour for their trainers. That does not necessarily mean you’re getting a great trainer for that rate. The same gym may pay their trainers $20 per hour, a rate that does not attract the top professionals.

It is also a popular business model at many gyms to sign clients into long-term personal training contracts. Remember that fit people are active people. Your travel, business, injury or other distractions may have you paying for a service you don’t use and can’t easily get out of. Stay flexible and don’t allow someone else’s aggressive business model to box you in. Next, regardless of where you find your perspective trainer, interview that trainer. Ensure they are either certified with a recognized program (ACE, NASM, ACSM, AFAA) or have a degree in Exercise Science or Kinesiology.

Certifications require ongoing education along with up to date CPR/AED training, so make sure they are current. If you find your trainer privately (outside a gym), verify they have a business license and insurance. It’s also a qualifier if they accept credit cards. Credit card terminals are only given to established companies with a credit history. Lastly, ask for references and make sure you and your trainer are a personality fit. If everything is a fit, you are going to spend many hours together.

Why a Personal Trainer: Strength training, flexibility training and cardio training is great for you but unless it is done correctly, can result in injury. A good trainer will not only ensure proper technique but also the most effective exercises to meet your personal goals. A good exercise program should be employed as a lifestyle and is priceless. Almost 90 percent of the people who try to work out on their own disappoint themselves. Those same people that quit while on their own are more focused and dedicated with the right trainer.

When: There is a one-word answer: Now! Everyone wants to be in good shape. Most are not. The hardest part of a good training program is getting started. Once you get started, a good training program is fun and effective. Those who get involved with an effective fitness program rarely look back!

[Ralph M. Ferraiolo, Ferraiolo Fitness]

MARCH 23, 2012

NY G L LEOE US D BO UU RN G LT IOVDI A

How to Choose A Heating & Cooling Company If it’s time to install a new or replace an existing heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system in your home, choosing the right HVAC contractor is as important as choosing the system.

Do some research on HVAC contractors ahead of time. If you’re not in a rush to get the system installed, take time to ask the right questions and prepare a short list of qualified contractors. Air Conditioning Contractors of America offers a checklist to use when comparing contractors.

An HVAC system is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your home, so invest some time and choose the right contractor for your job.

Look for an established community driven company—reliable, honest and trustworthy, who’s knowledgeable of all phases of the HVAC Industry beginning with the most basic and standard of HVAC systems up to the most technologically advanced energy efficient systems.

Verify that the contractor’s technicians are not only certified but have sufficient on-the-job experience. Look for certification from North American Technician Excellence (NATE), UA Star, HVAC Excellence and Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES).

Membership in any HVAC associations, including Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) or the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), PHCC (Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Contractors of America), also ensures you’re dealing with highly skilled technicians.

Verify that the contractor’s state licenses, liability insurance and workers’ compensation are valid and current.

According to airconditioning-and-heating.com, inadequate insurance can be a serious problem if a worker is hurt on the job at your property.

Verify how long the contractor has been in business under the same company name. Confirm he has a physical office in the area and a contact number other than a cell phone where he can be reached, including for 24-hour emergency service on weekends and holidays.

Be sure the contract includes start and end dates, and specific equipment

Believe it or not, your heating and cooling system uses more energy than anything else in your home. and labor costs, including contingencies for unforeseen upgrades. Verify that the work plan includes any new ductwork that might be required and the price.

Believe it or not, your heating and cooling system uses more energy than anything else in your home. So the more efficient your system, the more energy and money you may save every month.

If you invest in an American Standard high-efficiency system to heat and cool your home, let this serve as fair warning.

You may find yourself enjoying the great indoors more than the great outdoors. American Standard systems are designed to keep your home comfortable all year long. Plus, the revolutionary American Standard AccuClean whole home air filtration system will let your family breathe easier with a level of clean indoor air that’s never been available before.

43

SPRING SPECIAL

SAVE UP TO $1 ,600 With Manufacturer’s Rebates When You Purchase A High-efficiency American Standard HeatingCooling System. Call For Details

You Deserve To Be Comfortable.

WEEKEND AT SERVICE WEEKDAY RATES! Go With The Flow - Contact M.E. Flow Inc. Today!

Believe it or not, your heating and cooling system uses more energy than anything else in your home.

So the more efficient your system, the more energy and money you may save every month.

SPRING CHECK UP SPECIAL ONLY

79.

$

95

FOR YOUR HEATING OR COOLING SYSTEM Offer good till 4/30/12

Family Owned For 61 Years!

We Treat Your Home Like Our Own

Heating • Air Conditioning • Plumbing

703-777-2311

12 Cardinal Park Dr. Leesburg VA

www.meflow.com

N YG L LE OE U SD BO UU RN G LT IOVDI A

44

MARCH 23, 2012

The Smart Approach To Kitchen, Bath & Basement Design

you’ll need to do more than turn pages and program your TiVo. While looking through magazines, tear out photos of kitchens that appeal to you and write what you like about the room in the margin. Then slip the page into a clear sheet protector and insert that into a three-ring binder to create a stylebook.

2. DEFINE YOUR GOAL

There’s obviously a reason you want to remodel. What is it? Perhaps you want a kitchen or bath that will help with resale in a few years. Maybe you desire to remodel for entertaining or one that allows several people to cook at once. This is the time to assess your needs and wants. Make notes about how you plan to use the remodeled space, then try to distill all that information into a one- or twosentence goal such as, “My casual and open kitchen will be a place for family and friends to relax and enjoy healthy meals.”

3. CREATE A BUDGET

To get a general idea of how much you have to spend on a kitchen remodel, you will need to crunch some numbers. Are granite countertops a must-have? How about stainless steel appliances? Do a little research into the costs of your wish list items and compare them with your preliminary budget. Are you on target?

4. SET A TIME BUDGET

When most people hear the word budget, they automatically think of money. However, when remodeling, it’s also important to budget time. Is there an event on the calendar that would be affected if your kitchen is under construction?

5. HAVE REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS

Redesigning and remodeling your kitchen, bath and/or finishing your basement requires certain skills and knowledge.

Are you itching to breathe new life into an outdated or poorly functioning kitchen, bath and basement? Hold on. Put down the phone. Before contacting a remodeling professional, you’ll need to do a little soul-searching and research first.

Getting Started

Whether you’re doing cosmetic changes or a complete remodel, carefully plan your project. You will save time and minimize unwanted surprises.

Two factors really determine the extent of

the project: available space and budget.

A “full-blown” project—instead of changing a few items at a time—is really the most efficient way to remodel a bathroom, kitchen or basement.

1. CREATE A STYLEBOOK

If you’re even thinking about a kitchen remodel, odds are you have been leafing through design magazines and watching HGTV. Both are great ways to jumpstart the process, but to get the most out of this step,

Above all else make sure you have reasonable expectations when it comes to your remodel project. Talk to people who have been through the process before.

“Sit down with your family and talk about what you’re about to embark on,” says Suzie Williford, National Kitchen & Bath Association. “It’s going to take a certain amount of time. It’s going to have a certain amount of mess. It’s going to be a financial stress, and if you don’t know all this ahead of time and you go in with rose colored glasses, then that takes all the fun out of it. And, you know, it should be fun.”

MARCH 23, 2012

LO UB DU OR UG N TL O I VDIANYG LE ES

www.AbbeyDesignCenterVA.Com

45

LO UB DU OR UG N TL O I VDIANYG LE ES

46

MARCH 23, 2012

How To Choose A Private School

A

private school can be a wise investment, if chosen properly. Private schools offer small classrooms and family partnerships that public schools are unable to provide. At a faith-based school, the fact that the biblical integration takes place during the school day is a bonus. There are some factors to consider when selecting the school that is right for your child:

1 Consider your child and your family. What do you want a school to do for your child?

2. Gather information about the school of interest. Along with the school’s curricula and philosophy, inquire about standardize testing, school’s policies and procedures.

3. Visit and observe the school.

After a tour have you child shadow students in their respective class of interest.

4. Apply to the school you choose.

Once you select the school that you think is best for your child, inquire about the process of applying which could include an entrance exam.

Don’t forget to look beyond the daily classroom environment.

Does the school offer specialist programs, i.e., foreign language, music, computers or drama, field trips, assemblies, and/or concert.

The facility/grounds should be clean. View play equipment for strong bodies, as well as an open play area for group games.

Other items to consider: 1. School Safety 2. School Culture 3. Administration 4. Teacher-Parent partnership program (such as PTA) 5. Extracurricular Activities 6. Spiritual Discipline Procedures

County Christian School E S T. 1 9 8 0

E a r l y E d u c a t i o n 3 ’s - G r a d e 8

• Half, School & Full Day Early Education Classes (3 & 4 year olds) • Junior Kindergarten • Full Day Kindergarten • Rigorous Academic Program EE-8th • Additional Classes: Art, Music, PE, Spanish, Library, Computer • Competitive Sports Program 5th- 8th grades • National Junior Honor Society • Promethean Boards and State-of-the-Art Computer Lab

www.CountyChristianSchool.org • 703.729.5968 •

21673 Beaumeade Cir., Suite 600, Ashburn, VA 20147

MARCH 23, 2012

VD I NA GY LLEOEUSDBOUURNG LTI O

47

How To Select A Financial Planner What to Expect When Working with a Financial Planner to Develop a Financial Plan Have you heard the expression, “if you fail to plan, then you’ve planned to fail?” You probably would never think of hiring a homebuilder to build a house without a solid set of approved plans. Yet, when it involves your personal finances, something that touches every aspect of your life, chances are that you may not have a formal financial plan. If you do not, this article is for you.

A finanial planner will help you understand what to expect if you decide to work with a financial planner to develop a financial plan by describing the financial planning process and highlighting the benefits of having a plan.

Identify Your Personal and Financial Goals This is the single most important step in the process for two reasons. First, you are setting a target to aim for in the future. The financial plan you develop is only as good as your target. Second, you are establishing the client-advisor relationship with your planner whose goal in this step is to get a solid understanding of your goals and dreams and help you articulate your target for the future.

A good planner will emphasize that these are your goals, and will ask you questions to help you identify what is most important to you.

Make Assumptions about the Future Since portions of a financial plan make future projections, the assumptions that are used in the model are critical. You can expect your planner to guide you in making assumptions about things such as anticipated college costs, when you might expect to retire and what inflation levels might be. None of us has a crystal ball, but you should be comfortable with your assumptions that will be the foundation of your plan.

Determine Where You Currently Are and Your Risk Tolerance This step is often called the “fact finding process.” You and your financial planner will determine where you stand right now.

During the fact-finding process, your assets (what you own) and your liabilities (what you owe) are compiled. Important documents are reviewed, such as tax returns, wills, life insurance policies, trusts, pay stubs, investments, and bank accounts. Typically, all this information is entered into financial planning software for summarization, analysis and visual presentation purposes.

During this step, you should also expect to answer questions designed to assess your “risk tolerance” for investment alternatives.

This will help the planner understand what type of investments would be appropriate for

your plan, given your investment horizon and tolerance for risk.

Develop a Plan to Achieve Your Goals Once the financial planner understands your goals, your risk tolerance, and your present situation, the planner uses his or her knowledge of financial concepts, tax laws, the financial markets, and financial strategies to develop a financial plan for you.

Once your plan has been completed, your planner will arrange a presentation meeting.

This meeting is an important event for you!

You should take notes, ask a lot of questions and expect to be given time to “digest” the plan and recommendations. Make sure your planner helps you get a solid understanding of the basis for any recommendations to make adjustments to your current financial situation.

Implement Your Plan – Take Action Once you have taken time to focus on your goals and develop a plan with a financial planner, keep your momentum going.

Typically, a comprehensive plan will identify several recommended changes such as: executing a will, starting a college savings plan, setting up a Roth IRA, changing your 401(k) elections, or adjusting your life insurance. A skilled and caring planner will help encourage you to implement the plan.

Who is Personally looking out for You?

Monitor the Progress of Your Plan Designing and building your financial future will be an on-going process. Generally, I recommend meeting with your financial planner at least once a year to review any changes in your situation that may warrant revising your plan.

Benefits You Can Expect You can expect to receive immediate benefits from a comprehensive financial planning process. First, you will have all of your financial information organized and in one place.

Your investments will be compared to your “risk tolerance.” You will learn which asset allocation is best for you, what tax strategies will benefit your particular circumstances and whether the type and amount of life insurance coverage you have is appropriate. You will also have a better idea if you will be adequately prepared for future events such as retirement or college costs.

I believe that comprehensive financial planning is the single most important step you can take toward achieving your goals and dreams.

[Scott J. Friberg, CFP, CPA, is a registered representative of Securities Service Network, Inc., member FINRA, SIPC. Fee Based Advisory offered through SSN Advisory, Inc. – A Registered Investment Advisor.]

Serving Loudoun County for 15 years

Personal Family Financial Planning Take a Moment to see what makes us special • Education, Experience and Credentials — Scott is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL

PLANNERTM professional, CPA, and Certified Estate PlannerTM certificant with a masters degree from the University of Virginia and 30 years of financial experience.

• Personal Relationships — We are dedicated to building personal long-term relationships with our clients, focused on comprehensive financial planning.

• We ALWAYS put our clients’ interests first.

• Independent — We are independent and work for you! We are not obligated to represent

specific firms or products.

• Life Planning Passion — Scott’s passion for life planning is reflected in his holistic approach to developing your financial plan, considering not just your finances, but the special people and experiences that are important to you!

Locations in Eastern and Western Loudoun County Call today for a complimentary consultation: 540-751-1410 www.FribergWealth.com Securities offered through Securities Service Network, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC. Fee-based advisory services offered through SSN Advisory, Inc. — A Registered Investment Advisor

LLEOEUSDBOUURNG LTI OV DI N AG Y

48

D

aily Dog Walks in-Home VaCation Pet Care Fifteen years of animal rescue and animal care experience. Insured, Bonded & Licensed

www.yourvirginiapetsrmypets.com Call for a quote today! 703-867-7158

www.yourvirginiapetsrmypets.com Call for a quote today! 703-867-7158

Se

g n i c i v r

Leesburg, Hamilton, Purcellville, Reston, Lansdowne, Ashburn, Paeonian Springs, Waterford, Hillsboro, Round Hill & Herndon.

Loudoun Habitat for Humanity Delivers Twice the Impact We seek to eliminate poverty housing in Loudoun County.

Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat builds simple, decent houses.

Habitat is not a giveaway program.

Homeowners invest hundreds of hours of their own labor alongside volunteers to build their house.

Call us or volunteer today: 703.737.6772 109 Harrison St. NE Leesburg, VA 20176 www.loudounhabitat.org

Habitat’s ReStore resale outlets sell reusable and surplus building materials to the public.

ReStores feature home improvement goods: furniture, home accessories, building materials and appliances.

ReStores promote reuse and recycling, keeping reusable materials out of the waste stream.

Donate or visit us today: 711 E. Main St. Purcellville, VA 20132 540.579.4508

MARCH 23, 2012

How To Select A Pet Sitter OK, so you are going on vacation or you are working long hours at the office, and you need to decide what to do with the family pet(s). You have three choices. Ask a neighbor (and their kids) to watch them; take them to a kennel; or use a service that has become more popular in recent years, look for a professional pet sitter to watch your pets in your home.

This article will address the third option, how to select a pet sitter for your precious pets.

First, here are some good reasons to use a professional pet sitter, you: • work long hours.

• get stuck at work with unexpected late hours or overtime.

• cannot provide daily exercise for your pet due to your busy schedule.

• want someone you can trust to care for them.

• worry about exposing them to injury or disease in a kennel environment or day care situation.

• would rather your pet remain at home where he/she feels safe and at peace.

• wish to enjoy a “guilt free” day at the office or while on vacation.

• want to be certain that your pet will receive special attention and one-on-one care.

• wish to avoid the hassles of transporting

your pet to and from a kennel.

All right, you have decided to take the step to look for a pet sitter, what’s next?

• check with the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) for a pet sitter in your area. Its website can be found at:www. petsitters.org.

• check local newspapers, and community specific newsletters and yes, the hard copy of the Yellow Pages.

• check to see who your neighbors use.

When you do pick one, check the following: • Are they eager to have your business?

• Find out if they are an established business, and don’t just rely on a large business. There are many smaller companies out there who are just as anxious to have your business.

• Can they provide you with references?

• Check their website.

• Are they licensed, bonded and insured?

• Ask if they provide an initial orientation visit to familiarize them with you and your valuable pet.

• What experience do they have in the field?

• Do they seem to have a good professional, business sense?

Sometimes, an older, more mature person as a pet sitter can be more responsible.

Choosing Reused Building Materials The choice of materials for any project requires considerations of aesthetic appeal and initial and ongoing costs, life cycle assessment considerations including material performance, availability and impact on the environment, and the ability to reuse, recycle or dispose of the material at the end of its life.

An often-overlooked option is the reuse of materials taken or left over from some other project. Recycling materials can be a lucrative business, but it can also save consumers a lot of money or provide access to some hard to find or interesting pieces with which to work.

Remodeling with secondhand building materials has many fans. Some are owners of historic houses who improve their homes by adding period elements. Others follow green building practices and appreciate conserving resources and keeping materials out of landfills. And still others are looking for quirky elements that will break their homes out of cookie-cutter molds.

A visit to the county’s largest materials recycler retailer, Purcellville’s Re-Store, operated by the Loudoun chapter of Habitat for Humanity, provides examples of the possibilities.

According to the Building Materials

Reuse Association, “building materials reuse is one of the most sustainable activities associated with our built environment. Deconstruction is the practice of disassembling a building in such a way that the materials (joists, flooring, siding, fixtures, and more) can be reused for new construction.”

To borrow a line from the current Capitol One commercials, “Who doesn’t like to save money?” Whether you are a homeowner who is itching to remodel that spare bathroom, update the kitchen fixtures or replace that floor in your lovely but aging home or you are a home remodeler who is looking for just the right molding or replacement door, you’re likely to be able to track down some reusable or surplus material to get the job done.

In addition to saving money, the reuse of discarded, but otherwise perfectly functional, materials is an environmentally sustainable approach to construction. Materials that can be reused after the useful life of the building will reduce the need for new materials to be produced in the future. Materials that can be recycled will reduce the need for new materials to be produced, and the energy required to reconstitute materials is generally much less than required for new production.

MARCH 23, 2012

L LE O EU SD BO UU RN G LT IOVDI AN YG

How To Prevent Backflow Problems An important area of preventative home maintenance is the annual testing of a home’s backflow prevention assembly located on the water supply to irrigation systems and in most cases home fire sprinkler systems.

As part of the Safe Drinking Water Act and the International Plumbing Code, backflow prevention assemblies are to be tested at least annually in order to maintain clean, pollutant free water in the home’s plumbing system and the public water supply. Backflow prevention protects the drinking water system from many hazards. There are thousands of reported cases of backflow each year, and some can be fatal.

Backflow is the undesirable reversal of flow of non-potable water or other substances through a cross-connection and into the piping of a public water system or consumer’s potable water system. The loss of pressure is the most common type of backflow, and is called backsiphonage. Backsiphonage occurs when there is a sudden drop of pressure in the public water main that supplies water to a home. This can happen if a water main breaks, or if a fire hydrant is turned on.

Backflows due to cross connections can cause sickness and death. Even in your own home, you can unwittingly create a crossconnection by putting the garden hose in a swimming pool or fish tank to fill it; or connecting your garden hose to a plant fertilizer or bug spray unit.

Over half of the nation’s cross connections involve unprotected garden hoses. In Kansas, a man died from drinking out of his garden hose. He was spraying the yard with poison to get rid of bugs and had connected his garden hose to the spraying device. Unknown to him, during the spraying, a drop in pressure occurred in the main water system causing the poisoned water to backflow into the hose. Enough to kill him when he took a drink from the garden hose after spraying. He had contaminated his own water system.

What is a cross-connection? Any actual or potential connection of piping between the public water system and consumer’s water system, whereas there is or has the potential of introduction of fluids, gas, or other matters not intended for distribution or consumption.

What is backflow? Backflow is a hydraulic condition that occurs within the main distribution system that may cause the reversal of flow of fluids, chemicals or other foreign materials back to the main water source by means of backsiphonage or backpressure.

Why is backflow protection necessary?

To ensure the quality and esthetics of our water source are maintained in a manner in which it can provide the purest, safest and more importantly contaminate free water.

How can a backflow occur? When the distribution side of an assembly has a sudden decrease in pressure (backsiphonage) causing water to then flow to the least resistance, which would be the opening of a connection to atmospheric pressure. Example: Fire hydrant openings; water main break. Also, backflow can occur from the pressures when on the discharge side of the assembly exceeds the inlet pressure forcing water flow backwards or what is known as a (backpressure) condition. Example: Thermal expansion.

What is thermal expansion? Heated water in a closed system creates a pressure greater than the supply side.

How can backflow conditions be prevented? Stay in compliance with annual testing; ensure every connection within distribution system has some form of protection; make sure protection meets degree of hazard requirements; and most importantly “working together” from water purveyors to inspectors, to contractors and you the consumer. It takes all of us to preserve and protect one of our most vital resources: water.

When does the assembly need to be tested? According to state plumbing code, all assemblies must be tested upon relocation, repair, and installation, or at least annually. If a problem is found during the yearly inspection, the equipment must be repaired or replaced pursuant to the timeframe allotted by the local water authority.

What is the purpose of testing? To ensure that each independent spring loaded check is holding at the required psi (pounds per square inch) and if applicable the spring loaded relief piston also opens at required psi. This is to ensure proper function ability of the assembly and more importantly to ensure your drinking water is contaminate free.

There are many companies that offer backflow prevention assembly inspection services and choosing the right one can be a daunting task. Important things to look for when selecting a company are to ensure they have the knowledge and experience; they are fully insured; licensed to not only inspect, but also licensed to perform the required repair of backflow prevention assemblies in the event the assembly fails inspection.

Trusting your health, more importantly your life or your loved ones’, should be in the hands of experts.

49

BACKFLOW TECHNOLOGY, LLC

Certified Backflow Prevention Specialists RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL • SERVING VA - DC - MD Licensed - Insured - Master Plumber Virginia Class A Contractor • TESTING • CONSULTING • REPAIR • INSTALLATION

24 HOur

EmErGENCY SErviCE

“Protecting Your Drinking Water Since 1997”

Don’t be a victim of contaminated water!

Be sure to test your backflow assembly annually to ensure your drinking water is safe & free of contaminants.

We donate 10% of net proceeds of residential testing to breast cancer research and Tigerlily Foundation.

P.O. Box 1575 Sterling, VA 20167

703-450-5898 www.backflowtechnology.com

G L LEOE US DB OU UR NG LT IOVDI N AY

50

MARCH 23, 2012

How To Choose A Handyman

We do it all. Call for FDAE. Call us 703-327-7720 To get a coupon and to read details of these photos, go to and read “In The news” at: www.MrHandymanVA .com

1.The handyman company should be insured, licensed and bonded. Ask for the documents.

2. If you are unhappy with the work performed, will the handyman come back and fix it? Be very suspicious if the company does not offer any warranty at all.

3. Look at the company reputation. Should an issue arise in eight months, will it stand by the work? A national, reputable company or a franchise will stand behind its work.

4. Find out if the company is a member of a professional forum, such as Better Business Bureau, Angies List, Check Book, etc. Check on the handyman credentials.

5. A consumer should know, “You Get What You Pay For.” Hiring someone that is unlicensed, uninsured or is inexperienced will cost you more in the long run.

6. Any free estimate is charged back to you in some form or the other. Two types of work modelS are the time and material model, and the fixed dollar amount estimate (FDAE).

7. Talk to your family and friends to learn their recommendations.

Why Do You Need A Handyman?

After researching, once you have found a

BUSINESS and PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Electrical

Call 703-771-8831 or visit our website at www.leesburg2day.com Pet Services

Serving the Leesburg / Ashburn areas.

FOUNDATION PROBLEMS?

FREE

Inspection & Estimate!

Call: 866-981-2977

Happy Hounds Dog 703-786-2841 Walking Service Insured

www.jeswork.com

http://walkdogs.net/ Entertainment

(SFBU .VTJD r 1SPGFTTJPOBM 4FSWJDF 4QFDJBMJ[JOH JO 8FEEJOHT 3FDFQUJPOT 1MBOOJOH B 4QFDJBM &WFOU 8FEEJOH #JSUIEBZ PS )PMJEBZ $BMM 6T 5PEBZ John Schrotel www.DJs2GO.com 703-346-4567 Licensed & Insured

Fax: 703-444-2724

good handyman, then inside or outside jobs can be considered: • repair, power wash, sand and stain the deck; • drywall repair and paint; • kitchen back splash tiling; • roof shingles repair; • front door & railing paint; • brick on the steps repair; • gutter repair or replace; • replace or repair doors; • get wood rot repaired.

One of the most important things to preserving your home is taking care of any wood rot. Most people blame termites or wood ants for what looks like chewed up wood. The truth is, it is the water or the moisture that leads to the wood rot. The longer it is ignored, the worse it becomes.

Power washing season is here. It cleans the outside surfaces and makes them safe to walk on or for esthetic appeal. You have a nice home; let it look good and enjoy that look. For a run-down deck, in addition to power washing, its surfaces can be intelligently worked on to make it as good as new.

Next Month in Loudoun Living

Lawn & Garden GUIDE

Space Deadline April 23rd Publication Date April 27th

CALL TO PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! 703.771.8800

LO UB DU OR UG N TL O I VDIANYG LE ES

MARCH 23, 2012

51

Assessing Your Options For Adult Care Finding the right adult care program for an elderly parent can be overwhelming. There are many alternatives to choose among to address your family’s needs and your budget.

We experience natural developmental stages in life and individuals find themselves either making or assisting in complex and important decisions about where they, a friend, or a family member, should be living. Changes in physical functioning, mental capabilities, life interests, financial situation, and social supports all determine which living situation is best, and most importantly, where a senior individual is ultimately going to be the most content and the happiest.

Making a good decision regarding where a senior loved one chooses to live is important and can be difficult. Don’t wait until there is a crisis to gather information. The best decisions are usually made without time pressures.

Incorporate the help of friends and relatives to share the work of a search and to build a support group.

Compare the strengths and weaknesses of various options. It is important to be as open and honest as possible about what is absolutely needed versus elements that can be subject to compromise and negotiation.

Consider the likes and dislikes of the senior. A small, home-like residence, which gives individual attention and care, may be ideal for one senior individual and may feel

claustrophobic and overbearing to another.

Sometimes the ability to continue with a hobby or have a pet accompany the person guides all the decisions that need to be made. Take stock of what is most important in your loved one’s life and make sure this can be maintained, as much as possible.

Make sure that you look at the options from the point of view of the individual who will be living there.

In Home Services For many seniors, having the opportunities for in-home care is most preferred and the least stressful option. When hiring an in home provider, it is important to learn about the caregiver’s background, training and certifications and to discuss special care instructions. You and the caregiver should have a clear understanding of the services to be performed and the rules around the house. Developing a daily activity log is helpful to ensure that your loved one’s daily routines, meals, medicines and special needs are adequately addressed.

Adult Day Services Adult day services can help people with physical and cognitive impairments remain independent. Services are offered in a variety of centers around the state. Day service participants often have difficulty performing familiar daily tasks, have lost initiative, motivation or memory, or need a safe environment with supervision. Adult day programs typically

provide socialization, reminiscing, recreational exercise, counseling, support groups, information, nutritious meals and snacks, health monitoring and art/music therapy.

Adult Foster Homes Adult foster homes are private homes with family-style living, offering room, board and physical care for up to five people 24 hours a day. A wide variety of residents are served in Adult Foster homes, from those needing only room, board and minimal personal assistance to those residents needing full personal care and skilled nursing tasks. The care provided depends on the resident’s needs and the skills, abilities, and training of the provider.

Residential Care Facilities Residential care facilities are homes for six or more people. They offer room and board with 24-hour supervision, assistance with physical care needs, medication monitoring, planned activities, and often transportation services. Some offer private rooms, and some registered nurse consultation services.

Assisted Living Facilities Assisted living facilities are homes with six or more private apartments. They are fully wheelchair accessible and offer full dining room services, housekeeping and call systems for emergency help. Registered nurse consultation is available. Physical care and additional health care supervision and assistance can be provided in your own apartment. Organized

activities and transportation are available.

Nursing Facilities Nursing facilities provide nursing care on a 24-hour basis in a hospital-like setting. They provide skilled care, rehabilitation, and end-oflife care. Nursing facilities are most appropriate for people who need a more protective setting.

Many residents have medical and behavioral needs that cannot be met in other care settings.

To select a facility schedule a tour and obtain the general information, but also make an unscheduled drop-in visit later to see if there are any differences in what you see. Pay special attention to the convenience of: location, visiting hours, visiting areas, food, types of care rendered, ancillary services, staffing, daily activities, religious activities, and safety/security issues.

Don’t be afraid to make as many trips back as necessary to get all your questions answered.

It can be difficult to find a comfortable balance between quality and cost. Remember that state or federal assistance may be available to help. It is important to ask questions that might be difficult or embarrassing, including about options if an individual’s funds become exhausted. Facility managers are comfortable dealing with the subjects and can offer suggestions or alternative programs. Sometimes the level or type of care an individual needs can fluctuate frequently or change, which may also require consideration along with any other future needs.

DO YOU OR YOUR LOVED ONE NEED A LITTLE COMPANIONSHIP, HELP WITH HOUSEHOLD TASKS OR HAVE MOBILITY ISSUES AND NEED TRANSPORTATION TO COMPLETE EVERYDAY TASKS? Assurance In-Home Care (AIHC) has the “Secret Solution”. Our goal is to keep you and/or your loved one safe, healthy and comfortable in your own home. We want to help you stay in your own home as long as possible. If this is not an option, we can assist you with Elder Care Aide placement in • Independent Living Communities • Senior Communities • Assisted Living • Nursing Homes.

We are a Loudoun County based company. Our main business is “private pay clients”, serving South Riding, Stone Ridge, Aldie, Ashburn, Lansdowne, Leesburg and surrounding Loudoun communities. We want to offer you and your loved ones “peace of mind”. We are striving to be the premier in home care provider offering quality and dependable services. All Elder Care Aides are AIHC employees and interviewed personally by the owner before we send them to your home. We have all been assisting elderly and mobility challenged clients and/or family members for years. Our services may also be utilized by busy homeowners who need help with in home services. AIHC is registered with IRS, Loudoun County and in the application process for National Provider Identification (NPI). Business insurance and simple bi-monthly billing gives our clients the security and convenience they need to utilize the multitude of services we offer.

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES: • Doctor Appointments • Hair & Nail Appointments • Church Services • Family Activities & Events • Shopping Trips • Banking • Bill Paying

IN-HOME SERVICES: • Schedule Follow-Up Appointments • Pharmacy Re-Orders & Pickup • Track Medication List • Medication Reminders • Personal Hygiene • Coordinate w/Caregivers • Respite for Caregivers (Over Night, Weekends & Vacations)

• Cleaning & Other Household Chores • Laundry/Dry Cleaning • Order Depleted Supplies • Mail Management • Bill Paying • Home Organization • Grocery Shopping & Other Errands

ASSURANCE IN-HOME CARE (AIHC) Priscilla Berry, Owner

703-729-3787 (bus.) • 301-717-1672 (cell) Insured • Registered Loudoun County

MARCH 23, 2012

V IDNAGY LL EOEUSDBOUURNG LTI O

53

You get the windows, we pay the interest With our Pre-Season Special, you won’t have to settle for poor-quality windows.

The problems with cheap windows: • Even through normal temperature changes, vinyl and fiberglass expand, contract, warp and leak.

• Only staples, screws and glues hold them together, so when their seals break, and their insulating gas is gone, so is your comfort.

The Fibrex® window is the solution: • We’re the replacement window division of Andersen, and they developed our Fibrex® material to meet their superior standards.

• Fibrex is so strong, it prevents glass movement, seal failure, and discomfort in your home.

➣

This Pre-Season Special ends April 8th To keep our installers working during our slow season,⎯we’re offering the the very best deal.

ason Specia Pre-Se l through April 8th y l n O

5 Years 0% financing

1

You get the windows, we pay the interest Offer expires April 8, 2012

Call for your FREE Window Diagnosis

1-866-991-6743 TheRbADifference.com

Offer expires April 8, 2012. This offer and the financing are only available on a purchase of 4 or more windows and/or patio doors. Financing is O.A.C. and is not valid with other offers or on prior purchases. Minimum payments are required, but no Finance Charges will be assessed if (1) promo balance is paid in full in 60 months, and (2) all minimum monthly payments on account paid when due. Financing available locally with approved credit only. Financing subject to change without notice.

Renewal by Andersen is neither a broker nor a lender. Financing provided by third-party lenders unaffiliated with Renewal by Andersen. This Renewal by Andersen location is a independently owned and operated retailer. VA Lic.# 2701030764A. DC Lic.# 420212000031. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are marks of Andersen Corporation. ©2012 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. ©2012 Lead Surge, LLC. All rights reserved.

1

54

O SU BD UO RU GN TL O I VD IANYG L EL E

MARCH 23, 2012

PHOTO BY DONNIE GRAY—GRAY AREA PHOTOGRPHY

Just a sampling of our 2012 culinary participants, advisors and awesome sponsors!

If you’re a family-owned or small-group restaurant interested in being part of this collaborative, countywide culinary celebration, contact team member Nicole today at 415.412.7831, or via e-mail at Nicole@ FarmToForkLoudoun.com.

Here’s a sneak preview of our 2012 event!

20 Restaurants 19 Loudoun County Farms And 3 fine winemakers, Loudoun’s whiskey & gin guy and a Loudoun microbrewery that sources local hops and honey to make their fine craft.

coming your way JULY 26—AUGUST 5, 2012 DON’T BE LEFT OUT!