homeowner news LETTER                          JULY  2010

Beat the heat: Tips for keeping your family safe and healthy this summer

(ARA) - The smell of the barbecue grill, the sounds of children playing and the feel of warm sun on the skin are all signs of summer. With increased outdoor activities, there also comes a list of precautions you should take to keep your family safe and healthy.

"We know women are usually the caretakers of the family," says Elizabeth Battaglino Cahill, a registered nurse and executive director of HealthyWomen. "Summer brings lots of great opportunities for family fun, but also requires some special planning to keep kids and adults safe and healthy in the sun and heat."

Limit sun exposure
Because exposure to the sun causes most of the skin changes associated with aging, protecting the skin from the sun is the single most important skin care practice you can adopt and impart to your children. Significant exposure to the sun will wrinkle and dry the skin. Uneven pigmentation - from freckles to small or large brown spots - is another side effect of frequent sunning.

The most serious consequence of sun exposure is skin cancer. Most sun damage occurs before age 18, but skin cancer can take up to 20 or more years to develop. Children who experience just a few serious sunburns are believed to have an increased risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Protect children by applying sunscreen at least an hour before heading outside and frequently reapplying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Also have them play in the shade and wear protective clothing. Babies younger than 6 months should never be in direct sunlight and should always wear a hat and clothing that protects them from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Keep an eye on your vision health
Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat when you're in the sun. These two simple steps can reduce your exposure to eye-damaging UV rays up to 18-fold. And, if you wear contacts, ask your eye care specialist about contact lenses with UV protection. Don't forget your children and their eyes. If you are going to be in the sun, make sure your children are wearing hats that provide coverage. Use your stroller hood when out for a walk and pay attention to the sun's direction. When out for a walk with your stroller, try to walk so that the sun hits your back. You may also want to consider purchasing children's sunglasses.

Practice water safety
Before you start splashing, remember safety first. Take the time to enroll your kids in swim instruction classes, and teach your children to take precautions before diving into the water. Make sure to read the safety and warning labels on all children's toys, inner tubes and water wings so that you understand their safety capabilities. And remember to reapply sunscreen every few hours after being in the water.

Avoid foods exposed to excess heat
During the summer months, many people enjoy going for a picnic. Before packing your basket this summer, think about how long your food will be exposed to the outdoors. Avoid packing meat, dairy and egg products that may spoil if not kept cold. If you decide to bring these types of food products, pack them separate from each other in a cooler, and keep the ice in a sealed container to avoid a soggy sandwich.

Stay hydrated
Increase fluid intake as appropriate based on the weather. High temperatures or humidity outside, heated indoor air and high altitudes all cause you to need more fluids.

When exercising, drink one cup of fluids every 15 minutes, advises Dr. Werner W.K. Hoeger, a fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine and director of the Human Performance Laboratory at Boise State University.

Add more for big events. If you're going to be in a race or charity walk, make sure you drink enough to be well hydrated the day before, Hoeger adds. Also, drink a glass of fluid, such as water or a sports drink, an hour before the event.

Watch out for overheating in vehicles
Even on a relatively mild day, the temperature inside your vehicle can quickly escalate. These temperatures can put both children and pets at risk for heat stroke, dehydration and even death. Never leave your child or pet unattended inside your car, even to run a quick errand.

For your sun safety checklist, visit www.HealthyWomen.org/summersafety. For other health and wellness information, visit www.HealthyWomen.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Going back to college? Chase your passion,

not a paycheck

(ARA) - Given current economic conditions, it's no surprise that many people are considering going back to college either to pursue a more advanced degree in their field or to change fields altogether.

Seth Saunders, president of South University in Virginia Beach, Va., offers the following advice. "College represents a significant investment in time and money, so start wisely, and conduct a thorough self-assessment."

If you are not sure where your passion would take you, let alone what it may be, then sit down with pen and paper and make a list of the following: things you like to do in your free time, skills that come easily to you and topics you relish reading about. These will sharpen your focus.

After you have identified a career path that uses your strengths and engages you in the type of activity that you most enjoy, meet and interview people currently working in that field.

Finally, it's important to determine what you are willing to sacrifice in order to return to college.

"It can be overwhelming at first, but once you establish a routine, this new regimen will become second nature, and the organizational skills you gain will serve you well in your career," says Saunders.

South University is certified by SCHEV to operate in Virginia.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

In this issue:

- Beat the heat: Tips for keeping your family safe and healthy this summer

- Going back to college? Chase your passion, not a paycheck

- Remodel 411: help for the remodeling-challenged

- Ten simple ways to make your home safe for every generation who lives in it

- Tips for keeping your garden truly organic

 - Summer fun doesn't have to cost a fortune
 

- RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Aida's Corn, Tomato and Avocado Salad

SAME THE DATE!

"2nd Annual Home Improvement

Surplus Sale"

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Location: 

Kohl Building Products, 5833 Urbana Pike, Frederick, MD  21704

Board of Directors

President

Mark Pelletier, CGR, CAPS,.CGP

M.V. Pelletier , Inc.

mark@mvp-inc.com

1st Vice President

Ken Bullough

Stonemark Tile

kbullough@stonemarktile.com

2nd Vice President

Brock Merwin

Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling

bmerwin@pdr-usa.net

Treasurer

Steve Fennington

Frederick County Bank

SFennington@fcbmd.com

Secretary

Barry Stohlman

Stohlman Custom Cabinetry, LLC

barry@stwusa.com

Executive Director

Filomena M. Thompson

Events Made Simple, LLC

fthompson@eventsmade.com

NARI Mid-Maryland
P.O. Box 128, Monrovia, MD 21770
P 301-829-9866 / F 301-829-9868
www.MarylandNARI.org

info@marylandnari.org

Remodel 411: help for the remodeling-challenged

(ARA) - Thinking of remodeling but don't know where to start? Let your mouse do the heavy lifting and transform your current space into your dream home. These days everyone turns to the Web to get inspired. In fact, a study conducted by Princeton Survey Research International found that 69 percent of Americans use the Internet as a source of information when it comes to housing and investment decisions.

"Whether you're an expert do-it-yourselfer or this is your first home improvement project, the Internet can be an excellent resource," said Danny Lipford, host of the nationally syndicated television show, "Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford," and frequent contributor to "The Early Show" on CBS. "And the tools available on the Web just keep getting better and better - with educational videos, downloadable shopping lists, budget and return-on-investment calculators."

Getting started: The ABC's of ROI
With a project as daunting as remodeling a home, sometimes the most difficult part is just getting started. The key? Prioritizing. Start your renovation by concentrating on the rooms you use the most and offer the best return on investment (ROI): your kitchen and your bathroom.

According to Remodeling Magazine's 2010 Cost vs. Value report, homeowners will recoup the greatest share of their costs by foregoing super-deluxe projects in favor of mid-range kitchen and bath remodels. A mid-range kitchen remodel brings an average 72.1 percent return on investment and a mid-range bathroom project has an average 71 percent cost recovery.

Budget-minded enhancements
A "mid-range" kitchen or bath remodel sounds great on paper - but what types of projects does that really entail? Realtor magazine offers a few budget-minded enhancements to consider when remodeling:

* Add or replace tile - Purchase low-cost tiles to replace a dated backsplash or add a new one.

* Install granite tile instead of a slab - While granite kitchen counters are extremely popular, they can be a $5,000 upgrade. Instead, put in 12-inch granite tiles for as little as $300 in materials. You'll get the same impact for less.

* Freshen up your bathroom. This is a room that can be refreshed with little effort: try simple updates like regrouting tile or reconditioning cabinets. These small upgrades can make a big impact.

Or, if you want to tackle something a little larger - nothing makes a style statement like a new bathroom faucet. The new Method bathroom collection from Moen features clean lines, soft curves and a sophisticated, modern look. And not only does the Method collection look great, but it's eco-friendly, as well -- meeting WaterSense criteria and offering 30 percent water savings, without sacrificing performance.

Planning on the World Wide Web
Now that you've decided on the projects you'd like to undertake, it's time to begin the planning process. Begin by looking at everything from current trends and style options to the nuts and bolts of estimated budgets and time to completion.

In the kitchen
Websites like dannylipford.com are a great place to get ideas and support from fellow homeowners. The site DIYnetwork.com gives visitors an overview of a variety of kitchen projects, with step-by-step instructions, a list of the materials needed and the products their designers recommend. And, there's a time frame, price range and difficulty level listed for every project, helping you to choose a kitchen remodel that's doable for you.

In the bath
Moen's website is another great resource and features many design and planning videos to help inspire homeowners. The site even offers an interactive faucet selector tool, which helps you choose the right faucet for your space. Simply answer a few questions about your decorating style, how much you'd like to spend and which finish and features are important to you. Another way to stay up to date in the remodeling world is by signing up for Moen's At Home eNewsletter, which provides trends and ideas for your home.

"The best advice I can offer when tackling a remodeling project is to relax and enjoy the ride," added Lipford. "While it's easy to become overwhelmed, trust your instincts and don't be afraid to try new things. At times, it may seem easier to call in a professional, but you'll have a great sense of pride in knowing that you did the job yourself."

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Ten simple ways to make your home safe for every generation who lives in it

(ARA) - Most of us start life depending on our parents to take care of us. But as they age, chances are the roles will reverse. And, whether you provide additional help in their own homes - or move aging parents into your home - how do you prepare to meet the new needs of aging adults?

Luckily many simple, quick, affordable - and even stylish and savvy - updates can make homes safer and more enjoyable for you, your family and your parents.

De-clutter
Both kids and older adults have reduced reflexes and balance. Spruce up the look of your home - and avoid tripping hazards - by removing clutter and items you no longer use (especially obstacles in walkways).

Safe, spaaahh shower
Showers can be an enjoyable and luxurious part of anyone's day - if they are safe. While you probably don't want to renovate the shower, simple additions of bath safety products can make it safer and more enjoyable. Start by adding rubber grips to the bottom of the shower to avoid slick surfaces. Next, take a seat with a comfortable shower chair and enjoy a shower massage with a multi-function hand held showerhead. Products like the Home Care by Moen shower chair and Hand Held Shower with Innovative Palm Feature are ideal choices at affordable prices to add safety, style and spa enjoyment to the shower.

Save resources, save money
Eco-friendly adjustments not only can make you feel good about preserving natural resources for your family, they can also help lower energy costs (ideal for tight budgets). Simple steps can include replacing standard light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, insulating doors and windows and swapping faucets and showerheads with new water-saving WaterSense-labeled models.

Handy handles
In the course of a day, you grip many objects - from cups and pens, to door knobs and faucet handles. Swapping out door knobs or faucets with knobs for lever-handle models can make these everyday tasks a bit easier - especially for smaller or arthritic hands.

Get a grip
For any age, stairs are a falling hazard in homes - whether it's one step or 20. To increase safety, add hand rails or decorative hand grips in high-traffic doorways where there may be a step, such as the garage or front entry. Home Care by Moen offers attractive-looking 9-inch grips that install easily and blend in with your decor.

Let there be light
Did you also know that by age 60 the average person requires 15 times more lighting than when they were 10 years old? Brighten up the home with additional reading lamps in bedrooms and family rooms, under-cabinet task lighting in the kitchen, motion-sensor lights near entrances and nightlights in hallways.

Safe and secure
Your home is your safe haven ... so make sure it is protected. In the bathroom where slick surfaces can be falling hazards, add functional - yet fashionable - grab bars from Home Care by Moen. And, in case of unforeseen falls or other home accidents, home security systems can give you peace of mind to know that fire-, medical- or emergency-response is available for you and your loved ones at the touch of a button.

Flat flooring
According to the Home Safety Council, falls are the leading cause (66 percent) of all nonfatal home injuries. To help you - or your loved ones - avoid becoming a statistic, remove throw rugs or ensure that they have a non-slip backing to provide more firm footing.

Low-maintenance lawns
With busy lifestyles, it's tough to keep up landscaping. Making a few modifications to the yard can help ease the burden. Replace large grassy areas that require frequent mowing with rock gardens or mulch beds. Additionally, choose drought-resistant perennial plants and shrubs to save time and money on watering - and ensure you don't have to plant new each spring.

Be prepared
Are the washer and dryer in the basement? Are the bedroom and bathroom upstairs? Since stairs can be difficult to navigate for children or aging parents, having all the necessities on one floor is ideal. While it may not be in the budget to move everything to the main floor now, gradually start getting ready by wiring a closet or small room for the laundry - or planning to expand a half bath to a full bath.

With a few minor updates, you can breathe easier knowing your home is safer for your loved ones - both young and old. For more information on safety products from Home Care by Moen, visit www.moen.com/homecare.
 

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Tips for keeping your garden truly organic

(ARA) - The trend for gardening at home continues to grow - and people are taking a particular interest in raising their flowers and vegetables organically.

Unfortunately, the increased interest in organic gardening has led to some confusion - and some deception - about what it means for a product to be "organic."

Official organic labeling comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Their seal comes in a few forms, denoting whether a product is "100 percent organic," "organic," or "made with organic" ingredients. In addition to the USDA, the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) is a non-profit, independent organization that gives reviews of products.

If your main concern in planting an organic garden is providing your family with safe-to-eat, healthy food right from your own back yard, you'll want to take the trouble to make sure you're using truly organic gardening products.

An OMRI listed solution for deer and rabbit control is Plantskydd. Its effectiveness and environmental soundness as an organic repellent have made it popular for among gardeners, landscapers and even agencies like departments of natural resources.

It's important to remember that you have the power to influence the products that are available to you -- discuss your concerns with local retailers.
 

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Summer fun doesn't have to cost a fortune

(ARA) - Many American families will opt to save money this summer by foregoing a vacation at the beach, theme park or other destination. But deciding to stay home doesn't mean you have to give up summer fun altogether. You can have plenty of fun close to home - even right in your own backyard - with a modest cash investment and a little planning ahead.

Water, water everywhere

Summer and water play go hand in hand. You don't have to head to the beach to make a splash. Explore local attractions to learn if a water park is near your home; a one-day trip to such a destination can yield hours of fun at a fraction of the cost of even the most modest beach vacation.

If no water park is nearby, look for a nature preserve, park or lake where you can engage in some water sports. If all else fails, don't underestimate the sheer fun you can have in your own backyard with a couple of kiddie pools, a sprinkler and a garden hose. After all, the objective is to get wet, cool off and have fun together as a family.

While you're having fun in the water, remember to get enough water into your body as well. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water whenever you take part in outdoor activities this summer. Don't leave home without a supply of water bottles like the spill-proof, BPA-free plastic Tritan Hydration Bottle offered by Contigo. Reusable water bottles not only help you stay hydrated, they help the environment by keeping plastic bottles out of the waste stream.

Keep the outdoors great

Spending time in the great outdoors is one of the great joys of summer. But to keep your enjoyment of the outdoors feeling good, be sure to take some important items with you when you're out, whether you're hiking a trail in the community park, frolicking at the community pool, enjoying the kids' summer softball game or gardening in your own backyard.

Always wear sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays - at least SPF15, but higher is better. Also carry a sunburn soother, like SunBurnt After-Sun Gel, a homeopathic extract, to cool, sooth and hydrate your skin to help reduce skin peeling in case you inadvertently get too much sun.

Take the technology

Technology makes our lives easier in so many ways, and you can use some of your favorite high-tech items to make your summer stay-at-home vacation more enjoyable.

Carry the flat-screen TV and DVD player out to the backyard and set up a summer movie night for the whole family. Or rent a projector and screen for a more theater-like experience. Keep your favorite music player on hand for spinning tunes when you're enjoying the backyard, whether it's watching the kids play in the kiddie pool or hosting a sophisticated adults-only barbecue for some close friends.

When you're on the go, your iPod or MP3 player can help keep summer moving with great music. For times when you don't want to share your music, opt for earphones and try an accessory like Spot for Earphones that will keep cords tangle free. The Spot clips to shirts, pants or shorts and keeps earphone wires tangle free.
 

Courtesy of ARAcontent

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Aida's Corn, Tomato and Avocado Salad

Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the dressing:

1 1/2 cups packed fresh cilantro

1/2 cup good-quality extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

1 teaspoon finely grated lime zest

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

For the salad:

4 ears corn, kernels removed (about 3 cups)

1 1/2 pounds grape tomatoes, halved (about 3 cups)

1 pound fresh mozzarella, diced

2 medium avocados, diced

Directions

Combine the dressing ingredients in a blender, using 2 teaspoons salt, and pepper to taste; process until smooth. Combine the salad ingredients in a large bowl and toss with the dressing. Let sit at least 15 minutes before serving, or cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.

Courtesy of: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/aida-mollenkamp/aidas-corn-tomato-and-avocado-salad-recipe/index.html

About NARI Mid-Maryland

When you work with a NARI Professional you get.... A full-time, dedicated remodeling professional who has experience, and voluntarily adheres to NARI’s strict Code of Ethics. NARI’s screening process offers this assurance. NARI members have access to the latest information in the industry through publications, educational programs, educational seminars and conferences.

NARI is a not-for-profit trade association with more than 50 years of industry experience. NARI represents professional remodeling contractors, product manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, trade publications, utilities and lending institutions. The association is committed to enhancing the professionalism of the remodeling industry
and serving as an ally to you, the homeowner.

The statements or views expressed in the NARI Newsletter are those of the authors and may not necessarily reflect the official policy or views of the NARI Mid-Maryland Chapter. To receive this newsletter via e-mail please send an e-mail request to NARI at info@marylandnari.org – subject line – NARI Newsletter with your information.

MEMBER ADS

Visit us at www.MarylandNARI.org to contact our members.

Members of NARI Mid-Maryland Chapter

 * Accu-Build, Inc. * ADI Corporation * All Aspects Waterproofing * Artelye Marble & Granite

* Atlantic Coast Remodeling, Inc.  * Barrons Lumber/Barrons Custom Kitchens

* Carriage Hill Cabinet Co. * Creative Concepts Remodeling, Inc.  * D. G. Liu Contractor, Inc.

* Dertzbaugh Plumbing * Designer Surfaces Unlimited, Inc. * Dorman Builders, Inc.

* Downs & Associates, Inc. * EmbroidMe * Ferguson Enterprises * Frederick County Bank

 * Glory Energy Solutions LLC * Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County, MD

* Houseworks Unlimited, Inc. * J.Allen Smith Design Build, LLC  *Jones Homes, LLC

* Kitchen Solvers of Myersville * Lane & Sons Painting, Inc. * M & R Floors, Inc.

 * M.V. Pelletier, Inc. * Mark Folsom Builders, Inc. * Mount Garage Doors, Inc.

* NE " Bob" Waltz Plumbing & Heating, Inc. * Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling

* PC3 Limited, Inc. dba Innovative Homes * Perrine Design * Pleasant Hills Custom Builders

* Preferred Construction, Inc. * R.B. Hill Photography, LLC

* Filomena Thompson, RE/MAX Results * Reico Kitchen & Bath * RJZ Home Improvements, LLC

 * Stohlman Custom Cabinetry, LLC * Stonemark Tile LLC * T. W. Perry, Inc.

* Talon Construction, Inc. * Tomlinson Builders, Inc. * Trademark Remodeling, Inc.

* Wellborn Cabinet, Inc. * Winchester Woodworking * Window Nation