CBS4 News Magazine

BEWARE: How Dirty Is The Stuff You Touch Every Day? Pg.04

KEY BISCAYNE

CBS 4 I n v eSt Igate S :

Mental

mayhem Missed Signs Of Mental Illness take a toll On Some South Florida Families

Real estate pg. 22 - Home Improvement pg. 54 - Marketplace pg. 60

Contents 42 |

CBS4 Investigates: Mental Mayhem

04|

How Dirty Are The Items You Touch Everyday?

Key Biscayne Januar y 2014

Mental

Across the nation, mental illness is page one. The man known as the Navy Yard shooter had reportedly complained of hearing messages that he claimed led him to kill. Just weeks later, a Connecticut mother was said to believe the President was trying to communicate with her. It’s mayhem all too personal for some South Florida families.

mayhem 41|

Gross, but true. We are covered in bacteria.

Microbiologists at Nova Southeastern University say there are 10 bacteria living on you for every one cell you have.

08|

Are Tablets Safe For Your Children?

Playtime for babies is far different in the 21st century but parents could be making a big mistake putting touchscreens in the hands of toddlers and young children.

14 |

Saving Your Receipts May Save You Money By taking a survey at the bottom of a receipt, Deborah Walker earned $25 towards a future car rental. Receipt coupons for pet products also help her save cash she uses towards food for her pooches, nights on the town, or new clothes.

21|

Does Your Smartphone Make You Feel Sick?

With incredible new graphics and special effects, smartphones are getting smarter and smarter. But for some people, their phones are literally making them sick.

32|

There’s a Secret Science That Gets You To Shop Till You Drop Shoppers beware: retailers are increasingly using psychological tricks to get you to make more, and in some cases, different purchases.

[ 4 ] January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne

Staying Active During Pregnancy Benefits Mother & Baby There’s good news for expectant mothers who exercise during pregnancy, it may not only improve their health but the brain development of their babies.

53|

Bobby Flay Hopes To Cook The Competition With New Restaurant It’s as American as apple pie. Who doesn’t love a good burger and order of french fries? If you throw in a shake and onion rings, you’ve got the heart of the menu at celebrity chef Bobby Flay’s new restaurant in Dadeland Mall.

22

Real Estate

Properties Sold in your area

Sponsored By

54

Home Improvement

60

Marketplace

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How Dirty Are The Items You

Touch Every Day?

By Brian Andrews

CBSMIAMI.COM

Gross, but true.

We are covered in bacteria.

Microbiologists at Nova Southeastern University say there are 10 bacteria living on you for every one cell you have.

“Bacteria are going to be found everywhere. We live with it. It’s on us, in us, and around us,” said Dr. Julie Torruellas-Garcia. Our daily habits spread that bacteria all over the place,

CBS4

News teamed up with microbiology students at NSU to test items we touch and use every day to evaluate levels of bacteria on them.

We checked smart phone touch screens, tablets, gas pumps, ATM key pads, cross walk signals, even elevator buttons.

Dr. Torruellas-Garcia and her students at NSU checked swabs taken from all of these locations inside a laboratory.

“In all the samples, we were able to find bacteria growing,” said the Torruellas-Garcia.

Each sample was tested for staphylococcus aureus and e-coli.

some of it good, some of it bad.”

“Bacteria are going to be found everywhere. We live with it. It’s on us, in us, and around us”

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 7 ]

CBSMIAMI.COM

D

r. Juan Suarez of the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County said “staph” can cause everything from skin infections to breathing and stomach problems. “E-coli can lead to bloody diarrhea, and that can eventually become a condition called Uremic Syndrome, which can be life threatening.”

In our testing, NSU microbiology students found traces of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on smart phone screens and tablet cases used by office workers.

Dr. Torruellas-Garcia said this could cause a staph infection if the bacteria were to enter someone’s bloodstream.

“If people have a cut, even a mosquito bite or any type of opening in their skin, this is when they should be concerned.”

How does this type of bacteria get on your phone or tablet? The answer is quite simple.

“Not washing your hands properly after using the bathroom,” said Dr. Torreullas-Garcia.

Traces of E-coli where found on cash machine keypads and on gas station keypads and pump handles in Miami-Dade County.

“Since there’s fecal matter there, that means there could be other bacteria there that are more dangerous that could cause diarrhea,” said Torreullas-Garcia.

According to Epidemiologist Dr. Nicole Cook at Nova Southeastern University, the findings should not cause alarm.

“It is something to be conscious of,” she said. “About 25 percent of all healthy adults have a staph infection somewhere in their body and many of the strains of e-coli are actually needed for proper digestion and health.”

However, Dr. Cook said exposure to this could be a health risk for some in our area. “It can be a danger for children and the elderly, people with weakened immune systems. Those who suffer from cancer, diabetes, and HIV, for example.”

While exposure could be a problem for some, it could be a benefit to those who have stronger immune systems. “When we encounter these bacteria that don’t necessarily cause us harm, it’s good for us because it boosts our immune system so when we do encounter one that could make us sick we’re protected,” said Dr. Torruellas-Garcia All of the doctors interviewed by CBS4 agree the best prevention against getting sick from these types of bacteria is washing your hands.

“It’s best to wash your hands with soap for about 20 seconds,” said Dr. Cook. “Think if it as the same amount of time it would take you to hum the Happy Birthday song.” Dr. Torruellas-Garcia said anti-bacterial hand sanitizers are also a good thing. “Why not? It can’t hurt,” she said.

“the best prevention against getting sick from these types of bacteria is washing your hands”

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 9 ]

Are Tablets

SAFE CHILDREN?

For Your

Playtime for babies is far different in the 21st century but parents could be making a big mistake putting touchscreens in the hands of toddlers and young children.In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics has said that children under two should avoid all screen time.

Doctors and therapists fear too much time on touchscreens could cause long-term damage.

CBSMIAMI.COM

“What does this mean for generations to come?”

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 11 ]

P

arents may think they’re educating and stimulating their kids, but doctors and therapists are raising a red flag. Too much screen time can hurt their developing bodies.

“If they are always on the iPad and not actually doing those paper pencil activities that they should still be doing, those muscles are going to remain weaker,” said occupational therapist Lindsay Marzoli, with The Learning and Therapy Corner.

Like most 6-year-olds, Nolan Ulrich loves playing on his family’s iPad at home. His mom limits his screen time, but still worries about how much is too much, especially knowing it can lead to muscle weakness.

“Is it okay for them to be constantly looking at something for 20 or 30 minutes straight,” questioned Tammie Ulrich. “I did not know this would be a part of our parenting and our teaching.”

Nolan said that the iPad helps him work on his finger and hand movements.

Nolan’s occupational therapy takes the form

“Therapists say you can find plenty of worthwhile educational apps for children, but suggest limiting touchscreen use to no more than 15 minutes at a time” of games. He’s working on hand-eye coordination and finger movements like grasping and pinching, as well as balance and posture, all problems kids can develop if they spend too much time with touchscreens, instead of running, jumping, building and drawing.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 13 ]

CBSMIAMI.COM

“What we’re seeing is a lot of children coming in with some motor delays, some decreased muscle strength in areas,” said Marzoli Therapists are seeing more kids like Nolan. A just-released survey on tablets and toddlers shows the number of kids using touchscreens has doubled in the past two years — almost 40 percent of babies under two and nearly 75 percent of kids under eight are using them.

“They tap and something happens. So they tap and wow, something happens there, and that’s very enticing,” said pediatrician Dr. Timothy Doran.

What does this mean for generations to come? The technology is so new, researchers can’t predict what damage may be done. That has doctors very concerned.

“Unlimited use, three-four hours of iPad use on their own where the parents aren’t involved, seems to me that you are flirting with developmental danger,” said Doran.

It’s a warning Nolan’s family takes to heart. “Sometimes we set a timer now,” said Nolan.

Trying to limit too much swiping and tapping that could change how an entire generation is developing.

Therapists say you can find plenty of worthwhile educational apps for children, but suggest limiting touchscreen use to no more than 15 minutes at a time.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 15 ]

CBSMIAMI.COM

By taking a survey at the bottom of a receipt, Deborah Walker earned $25 towards a future car rental. Receipt coupons for pet products also help her save cash she uses towards food for her pooches, nights on the town, or new clothes.

“C

onsumers can easily save about a hundred dollars a month just by looking at the receipts in a new way, and looking for hidden cash on them,” said financial expert Denise Winston.

Financial guru Denise Winston has her own cache of receipts, and said coupons and discounts are just the beginning.

Some receipts even offer “free stuff” for giving a business feedback but statistics show as many as 60 percent of people don’t participate and only about 1 percent of the coupons on the back of receipts are redeemed.

Just by cashing in on those cash register printouts Denise estimates Americans could save billions of dollars each year!

“They’re really cash not trash,” said Winston.

It’s a lesson Denise has learned over and over.

When a watch she bought went kaput during the warranty period, having the receipt was critical to getting the repair work done.

The manufacturer fixed it; saving her $300 dollars she would have spent to replace it!

In another occasion, a wireless router went on sale soon after Denise purchased it. Her receipt helped her make money with a price match guarantee.

“All I had to do was take my receipt in, um and then they gave me the 40 bucks back,” said Winston.

Experts say if you use a loyalty card at a retailer, you will get more coupons, and more targeted coupons.

If you don’t, you could be losing out on savings.

“Some of the money that you may leave on the table is going to be lost because they’re not going to have that transactional data and they’re not going to be able to offer you those rich, targeted receipts,” said Mark Johnson of the Loyalty Marketer’s Association.

How do you avoid becoming a receipt hoarder?

Denise said save them in a simple envelope or file folder. Toss coupons and surveys that have expired but save receipts for expensive purchases.

“I like to play the system, look for the sale, and use your coupon at the same time” “It can be as basic or as complex as you want, but the key is start to do it right now,” said Winston.

Deborah said “doubling down” at the store helps her save even more money!

“I like to play the system, look for the sale, and use your coupon at the same time,” said Deborah Walker who saves receipts.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 17 ]

CBSMIAMI.COM

Soon Your Chicken Could Be Coming

From

China

By Brian Andrews

The Lee family sits at home eating their chicken nuggets but does “mom” like the idea that as soon as next summer “nuggets” could be made with chicken processed in China?

“U

h it makes me a little nervous,” said Katrina Lee. China has a long history of serving up unsafe food from industrial chemical Melanime which was put in infant formula to contaminated “rat” meat passed off as lamb.

“People have a right to be really suspicious of it,” said New York University Public Health Specialist Marion Nestle.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently tied the deaths of nearly 600 dogs and cats to chicken jerky treats from China.

“As far as I’m concerned this is the dog in the coal mine,” said Tony Corbo from Food and Water Watch.

Despite consumer concern, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has cleared the way for Chinese poultry processors to ship meat to America.

For now, they “can’t” use Chinese birds, only poultry raised and slaughtered in approved countries like the U.S. and it has to come back “fully” cooked.

“If it’s cooked, it should be perfectly safe,” said Bill Mattos from the California Poultry Federation.

Even with cheaper Chinese labor, how does it make economic sense to ship raw poultry

nearly six thousand miles all the way to China and back just in order to cook it?

Some believe it’s about hatching a much bigger deal.

The plan puts an end to a long trade war with China over poultry and in return, the move creates good will.

The hope is it will open a lot more doors for American grown food to be sold in China.

“This is really a big deal for trade. If China likes what we’re doing they’ll buy more products and China has a lot more people,” said Mattos.

As for chicken processed in China, American poultry producers believe the amount will be miniscule but critics warn it could end up as an ingredient in pot pies, chicken noodle soup and even nuggets and you won’t know it. ”China” won’t be on the label, thanks to a loophole in the law.

Last year, China sent more than 4 billion pounds of food to the U.S. including half the apple juice we drink, 30% of the garlic we use, and 85% of the tilapia we eat. Now processed chicken may be coming our way.

Foster Farms, Tyson and Perdue chicken tell us they have no plans to participate in the program.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 19 ]

TASTE OF THE TOWN

CBSMIAMI.COM

Catch Miami “Spectacular Seafood” This month Taste of the Town goes inside the kitchen of one of South Beach’s hottest eateries – Catch Miami at the James Royal Palm. Patterned after the original uber popular dining spot in New York, Catch Miami features the best in seafood.

Splitting his time between the Big Apple and Miami is the man behind the magic Chef Hung Hujnh.

“W

e have a fluid menu. We have a sushi section, a cold and hot section, the entrée section, the big fish section and the grilled section. You can get any style of seafood anyway you want it here at Catch,” said Hujnh.

Before opening one late afternoon Chef Hujnh prepared a Catch classic, Lobster Cantonese, for CBS4’s Lisa Petrillo made with live Maine lobsters.

“This is a very big seller in New York and here also,” he said. “It’s a dish I learned when I was 12-years old that I used to eat at a Chinese takeout spot. One day the chef brought me in the kitchen and taught me how to stir-fry and cook this dish.”

Of course this renowned chef puts his own twist on the dish.

“On this dish we’re going to use scallions, ginger, garlic, jalapeños, butter and our special

oyster sauce,” said Hujnh.

Catch Miami’s cool interior space has a feel of Art Deco meets modern classics.

“You know you’re at Catch when you get the homemade pretzel with the honey mustard butter. Everyone goes crazy for this,” said Petrillo. “Oh boy, I can just have a plate of these.”

Petrillo said the salmon belly carpaccio served with watercress and picked onions was divine.

“The salmon dissolved on my tongue, it’s so soft and so fresh,” Petrillo said.

As for the Lobster Cantonese with a sake sauce, “I taste the sake, the lobster, it’s sweet, there’s a lot of flavors, a lot of flavors sealed in,” Petrillo said.

And for dessert, try Hujnh’s key lime donut topped with coconut sorbet and merengue.

Catch Miami. Seafood. Simply spectacular.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 21 ]

Special Advertisement

CBSMIAMI.COM

Does Your Smartphone

Make You Feel Sick?

With incredible new graphics and special effects, smartphones are getting smarter and smarter. But for some people, their phones are literally making them sick.

E

xperts say the Apple iOS7 operating system’s advanced graphics, which can appear to be three-dimensional and show zooming animations when you open, close and switch apps, can make the brain think you’re moving when you’re not, causing motion sickness.

“It’s a cybersickness, like motion sickness,” said Ryan Ozawa, a tech expert who suffers from cybersickness.

“Because of all the physics engines and kind of movement in the operating system, people are getting a little dizzy or getting motion sickness, just like they would in the back of a car.”

The Internet is littered with people complaining of similar symptoms, which range from headaches and nausea to dizziness and even vertigo.

“It’s giving me a headache,” one iOS7 user says in a YouTube video. “It’s making me nauseated, and that’s not fun.”

But there is a way to cut down on all this smartphone movement. Ozawa said iOS7 users can go into their settings and click on the “reduce motion” option.

Just like with motion sickness, experts say you need to reset your equilibrium to feel better.

“If you’re looking at your phone long enough to get dizzy, maybe that’s a good sign, a good hint to put down the phone,” Ozawa said.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 23 ]

Real Estate Sponsored By

Listings in this section are based on properties sold in previous months and retrieved from zillow.com. Not all properties sold are listed.

Not responsible for typographical errors and/or omissions. Photographs are for illustration purposes only.

Content provided by www.Zillow.com

What Do Buyers and Sellers

Pay in Closing Costs?

If you’ve never been through a real estate closing before, you might imagine convening around a large table where, at the end of escrow, you’re presented with an itemized list of big expenses required to close the deal.

B

ut that’s not always the reality.

While people still do meet around a table at the closing, today some closings happen virtually. The buyers and sellers can sign the necessary documents remotely and wire money for the closing.

More importantly, it’s unlikely that a buyer or seller would show up to closing without any idea of what their costs will be. If you’re new to real estate, or haven’t bought or sold in a while, here’s what you need to know about closing costs.

Buyers have more costs, but usually pay less than sellers In a closing, both buyers and sellers have costs. Usually, the buyer is faced with more line-item expenses than the seller. For starters, most buyers are getting loans to make the purchase; many of the charges stem from the loan.

A buyer should receive a “Truth in Lending” statement early on in the sale process. This document spells out all the approximate costs the buyer will face when making the purchase, so there aren’t any surprises at closing. Some buyers use the “Truth in Lending” statement to shop for different lenders, interest rates and costs.

Aside from the costs of getting a loan or buying a home, some expenses, such as property taxes or homeowners association dues, are pro-rated and paid at the time of closing. For example, if you’re buying a home and you close toward the end of the property tax period, you’ll likely need to pay the balance of taxes upfront. The same holds true for pre-paid loan interest. If you close toward the end of the month, the lender may ask for the first month’s payment upfront.

Typically, buyers getting a loan will see some of the following costs: • • • • • • • • • • •

Appraisal fee Origination fee Pre-paid interest Pre-paid insurance Flood certification fee Tax servicing fee Credit report fee Bank processing fee Recording fee Notary fee Title insurance

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 25 ]

Real Estate

Content provided by www.Zillow.com

B

e sure to go through these fees line by line with your mortgage professional to understand exactly what they are and how they apply to your loan.

Sellers pay the commission For sellers, there are always fewer line items on an estimated closing statement. But the seller generally bears the biggest brunt of the fees: the real estate commission.

The commission is based on a percentage of the total sale price, so it tends to be the biggest fee. In addition to the real estate commission, sellers may have to pay the balance of their property taxes, if they haven’t done so already.

There’s some room for negotiation All fees and charges can be negotiated during the real estate transaction. For buyers, coming up with an extra 1 to 2 percent in closing costs can be a bigger deal than a $5,000 reduction in the purchase price. A credit for $5,000 to go toward closing costs will be a much bigger bang for your buck for the buyer. The price reduction won’t amount to much more than a few dollars per month over the length of the home loan. Saving $5,000 at the closing will be money right back in the buyer’s pocket.

This article was provided by www.Zillow.com.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 27 ]

Real Estate

Recently Sold Properties in Key Biscayne

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840 Harbor Dr, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 6 Beds / 7 Bath | 8,431 sq. ft. | 0.47 acre Lot | Built in: 1999 Sold: 11/27/2013 | $5,650,000

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255 Harbor Dr, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

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445 Grand Bay Dr, Apt 903, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

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435 Hampton Ln, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

3 Beds / 4.5 Bath | 3,480 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1996 6 Beds / 6.5 Bath | 3,583 sq. ft. | 7,840 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1951 Sold: 11/8/2013 | $3,000,000 Sold: 11/26/2013 | $2,950,000

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761 Ridgewood Rd, Miami, FL 33149

4 Beds / 4.5 Bath | 4,003 sq. ft. | 8,102 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1987 4 Beds / 4 Bath | 3,638 sq. ft. | 7,666 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1951 Sold: 11/20/2013 | $2,000,000 Sold: 11/15/2013 | $1,775,000

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255 Glenridge Rd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,801 sq. ft. | 8,102 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1953 Sold: 11/15/2013 | $1,650,000

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265 Ridgewood Rd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

206 Buttonwood Dr, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

121 Buttonwood Dr, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

4 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,152 sq. ft. | 7,778 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1953 Sold: 11/27/2013 | $1,600,000

3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,905 sq. ft. | 7,500 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1959 Sold: 11/5/2013 | $1,550,000

3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,646 sq. ft. | 8,250 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1953 Sold: 11/22/2013 | $1,500,000

Listings provided by www.Zillow.com

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691 Hampton Ln, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

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246 Hampton Ln, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

3 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 1,696 sq. ft. | 7,580 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1950 3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,526 sq. ft. | 7,500 sq. ft. Lot | Built in: 1953 Sold: 11/15/2013 | $1,460,000 Sold: 11/15/2013 | $1,425,000

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1111 Crandon Blvd, Apt A1102, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 151 Crandon Blvd, Apt 444, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 2 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,782 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1972 Sold: 11/26/2013 | $1,100,000

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2 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,684 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1980 Sold: 11/20/2013 | $830,000

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251 Crandon Blvd, Apt 708, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 3 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 1,870 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1979 Sold: 11/6/2013 | $1,350,000

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251 Crandon Blvd, Apt 333, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 2 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,532 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1979 Sold: 11/15/2013 | $730,000

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199 Ocean Lane Dr, Apt 214, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 1121 Crandon Blvd, Apt D504, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 199 Ocean Lane Dr, Apt 911, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 2 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,350 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1974 Sold: 11/5/2013 | $700,000

2 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,409 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1971 Sold: 11/22/2013 | $680,000

2 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,260 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1974 Sold: 11/15/2013 | $645,000

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 29 ]

Real Estate

L u xu ry P roPerties

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120 Palm Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

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Miami-Dade County

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1400 Biscaya Dr, Surfside, FL 33154

6 Beds / 6.5 Bath | 6,461 sq. ft. | 0.69 acre Lot | Built in: 1934 4 Beds / 6.5 Bath | 6,661 sq. ft. | 0.42 acre Lot | Built in: 1981 Sold: 11/26/2013 | $7,500,000 Sold: 11/21/2013 | $4,000,000

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5801 Collins Ave, Apt 500, Miami, FL 33140 4 Beds / 5 Bath | 5,426 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2002 Sold: 11/19/2013 | $3,920,000

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3535 Hiawatha Ave, Apt 204, Miami, FL 33133

1425 Brickell Ave, Apt 64E, Miami, FL 33131

17001 Collins Ave, Apt 4201, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160

4 Beds / 5 Bath | 4,520 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2011 Sold: 11/22/2013 | $3,500,000

2 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 2,738 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2003 Sold: 11/19/2013 | $3,400,000

4 Beds / 5 Bath | 2,394 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2008 Sold: 11/20/2013 | $2,600,000

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17001 Collins Ave, Apt 4201, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160 2627 S Bayshore Dr, Apt 2604, Miami, FL 33133 3 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,214 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2006 Sold: 11/20/2013 | $2,450,000

3 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,6400 sq. ft. | Condo Lot | Built in: 2006 Sold: 11/20/2013 | $2,400,000

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253 NE 2nd St, Apt 4903, Miami, FL 33132 3 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 2,800 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2008 Sold: 11/20/2013 | $1,870,000

Listings provided by www.Zillow.com

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17001 Collins Ave, Apt 908, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160 18911 Collins Ave, Apt 2805, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160 3 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 1,863 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2008 Sold: 11/19/2013 | $1,850,000

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3 Beds / 4.5 Bath | 2,864 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2003 Sold: 11/27/2013 | $1,800,000

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2900 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33129 4 Beds / 5 Bath | 2,604 sq. ft. | 0.41 acre Lot | Built in: 1953 Sold: 11/25/2013 | $1,775,400

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9879 NE 13th Ave, Miami Shores, FL 33138

100 S Pointe Dr, Apt 2302, Miami Beach, FL 33139

3350 SW 27th Ave, Apt 2202, Miami, FL 33133

3 Beds / 3 Bath | 3,150 sq. ft. | 0.32 acre Lot | Built in: 1954 Sold: 11/26/2013 | $1,750,000

2 Beds / 2 Bath | 2,018 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2002 Sold: 11/20/2013 | $1,690,000

3 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 2,607 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2002 Sold: 11/18/2013 | $1,675,000

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8755 SW 52nd Ave, Miami, FL 33143

19460 NE 14th Ct, Miami, FL 33179

16400 Collins Ave, TH4, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160

6 Beds / 5 Bath | 5,874 sq. ft. | 0.67 acre Lot | Built in: 1977 Sold: 11/27/2013 | $1,575,000

6 Beds / 6.5 Bath | 4,951 sq. ft. | 9,626 sq. ft. Lot | Built in: 2000 Sold: 11/26/2013 | $1,568,400

4 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 3,780 sq. ft. | n/a Lot | Built in: 1995 Sold: 11/27/2013 | $1,410,000

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 31 ]

Real Estate

Content provided by www.Zillow.com

Got a Second Mortgage?

You Can Still Refinance With HARP With mortgage rates remaining near historic lows, you may be able to save money on your monthly payments by refinancing — even if you a have second loan on your home.

U

nder the government’s Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP), millions of homeowners, even those who owe more than their homes are worth, have been able to save money on their monthly mortgage payments.

Find out if you can, too.

How can HARP help?

HARP gives eligible homeowners who may not qualify for traditional refinancing because of a decline in home value a way to refinance to a lower interest rate and/or more stable mortgage payment. It’s the only widely available refinance program that allows homeowners with little or no equity in their homes to take advantage of today’s lower interest rates. Even if you have a second loan on your home and think you won’t be eligible to refinance because you owe as much or more than your home is worth, HARP might be an option.

If you’ve made your mortgage payments on time, your first loan is owned by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, and you owe as much or more than your home is worth, you may be eligible for HARP refinancing.

If you are eligible to refinance through HARP, you’ll take out a new mortgage and use those funds to pay off your existing first mortgage and usually the closing costs for the new loan.

It’s important to understand that your “first” and “second” mortgages are separate obligations, and only first mortgages are eligible for HARP refinancing. But, because lower monthly payments on your first mortgage may improve your likelihood to repay your second mortgage, your second mortgage lender may be willing to cooperate.

Next steps When you’re ready to find out if HARP can help you save money every month: First, find out whether Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac owns your loan by using the loan lookup tools on their sites.

Next, contact your first mortgage company and say that you’re interested in HARP. Be sure to mention that you have a second mortgage. Your mortgage company will need to take steps to either “re-subordinate” your second mortgage or help you refinance your second mortgage at the same time you are refinancing under HARP. Re-subordination just means that your new first mortgage obligation takes priority over the existing second.

Finally, if your mortgage company is unable to help you with a HARP refinance, ask another lender to help you. Any lender participating in HARP may be able to help refinance your loan.

A list of participating HARP lenders is available at HARP.gov.

This article was provided by www.Zillow.com.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 33 ]

There’s a Secret Science that Gets You To

Shop

Till You

Drop

By Brian Andrews

CBSMIAMI.COM

Shoppers beware: Retailers are increasingly using psychological tricks to get you to make more, and in some cases, different purchases.

“R

etailers are really psychologists.

They understand how to get a consumer to spend more money in their store by staying longer in the store,” said Cynthia Cohen, dubbed the “Strategy Diva” by retailers. “It’s going to start here this year on the mobile phone.”

Cohen told CBS4’s Brian Andrews that stores already have the customer’s number.

“For the first time this year, when you walk into a store, you may get a message on your smart phone telling you the product you were researching online is in the store right now in your size,” said Cohen.

“How do they do that?” asked Andrews.

“Geolocating,” responded Cohen.

She also said that “in store” displays may be texting you this year.

“When you walk by a display, your phone will even tell you the product you want is on the rack. Big retailer is watching!” explained Cohen.

Your past visits to a store’s website are helping retailers do this. For example, loyal customers who haven’t opted out of their email or text alerts help push customers to shop till they drop.

“The consumer wants messaging that’s relevant, things that relate to me, things you know I like, such as my size or colors,” said Cohen.

“You are going to be seduced by-product, by offers.”

“Retailers are going to reward the customer with all five senses when they walk into a store because you can’t get that feeling online.”

And that’s before you even get to the mall.

“When you get to the mall, you may find that same offer that you got, or a different offer that gets you in the store,” Cohen told Andrews.

Once you’re in, expect an assault on your senses: touch, smell, sights, sounds.

“You know what the last one is?” Cohen asked Andrews.

“No,” he replied.

“It’s taste,” she said.

“Really?” Andrews replied.

“Yes and on certain shopping nights there will be coffee in some stores, Champaign in others,” Cohen outlined. “Retailers are going to reward the customer with all five senses when they walk into a store because you can’t get that feeling online.”

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 35 ]

I

t’s about grabbing your attention fast with an eye-catching display right at the door.

“Most consumers and retailers know this. Customers walk to the right,” said Cohen.

“Why is that?” asked Andrews.

“It’s been true for a long time. It’s consumer psychology. Now we’re at the point where it’s the chicken or the egg because the retailer plans for you to walk to the right,” replied Cohen.

Cynthia says walking into the store is like looking up a ski slope.

“If you look toward the back of the store, you see a mannequin that’s up higher. You’ll see a display that is built higher,” said Cohen.

“Oh, so it keeps increasing,” Andrews noted.

“Yes, it keeps increasing because what they want to do is draw you in deeper,” said Cohen.

And as you’re being reeled in, you’re passing what retailers call “Discovery Zones.”

“That’s where you would look and say, aha, here is the party dress I have been looking for, and then my eye catches the jewelry over there with another aha, and I need a gift. So that you’re picking up more and more things as you go along,” explained Cohen.

From the size of the floor tile to the music that’s played, retailers play us like a fiddle.

“A retailer fits the music to their image, their brand, and the time of day. So it all depends, once again, its psychology,” Cohen pointed out.

And then there’s the gift card.

“Oh my God I don’t want to embarrass her by buying a size that’s too big or too small. The gift card is the last-minute solution,” Cohen explained. “You’ll find a lot of men buying gift cards at the last lap of shopping.”

“Is that because guys are just bad shoppers?

Or we don’t want to make a mistake with the women in our lives?”

“All of the above!” exclaimed Cohen.

Cynthia said you’d better get that card from a brand you know she loves.

“When all else fails, the guy goes for a name that’s in the back of his mind that he’s heard over and over again, and if he’s smart, he won’t tell her it was his mother’s favorite brand,” said Cohen.

And when you have no clue to what to purchase?

“You go for the accessory,” answered Cohen.

“The accessory is always safe!”

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 37 ]

CBSMIAMI.COM

“Shes checking comparable prices and will say I can get this somewhere else.

What can you sell it to me for?”

That would include watches and costume or statement jewelry.

“She’s now changing her jewelry as frequently as she’s changing her dresses. It has to look like bling, it has to be fashionable, hopefully in the colors she likes. Dont worry about the price, just wrap it really nice,” Cohen advised.

This year’s shopping rush won’t be just to buy something for others. Retailers are ready for the young women called the “self purchasers” who are shopping for holiday party attire.

“The “be seen” items. The things you “haven’t seen me in” before item,” said Cohen.

Retailers are aware that you’re also looking at a gift purchase having double bang for your buck.

“I’m gift shopping. I’m also looking at what’s in it for me. So if I spend $150 dollars, I get something else. That something else is probably going to be a gift for me,” said Cohen.

“The vast majority of holiday money is spent by the woman. She’s buying for the mother-inlaw, the kid’s teachers, the grandmother, the inlaws,” Cohen explained.

Nine times out of 10, said Cynthia, it is the woman of the house who is doing the shopping for the family unit.

“Shes checking comparable prices and will say I can get this somewhere else. What can you sell it to me for?” Cohen said.

She also predicted that this year, more plastic will be flashed at the register than cold, hard cash. Also, coupon shoppers will be using their mobile devices comparing deals.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 39 ]

High-Tech Features Make Your Car a

Target For Hackers

By David Sutta

CBSMIAMI.COM

High-tech features like crash avoidance systems and auto-assisted parking are convenient options for anybody in the market for a new car, but they are also leading to a new series of concerns.

I

magine if those features allowed someone else to remotely take over your steering wheel, brakes, or warning lights. The practice is called car hacking and it may only be a matter of time before someone uses it to do something malicious.

Chris Valasek hacks computers and exposes security risks for a living. He says today’s cars give him a lot to work with.

“I can tell you’re going 199-mph now even though that’s quite apparently not the case,” he said.

Valasek and his partner can hack into a car’s electronic control units and take over the vehicle. Some cars have more than 30 of the tiny computers inside of them.

“We were able to take control of the brakes, the steering wheel, the headlamps, the seat belts we could tighten them,” he said, “We could engage the brakes and no matter what you did you couldn’t move the car.”

For a demonstration Valasek was plugged directly into the dashboard with a laptop computer.

“So, imagine being able to exploit these remotely and stopping a whole series of cars during rush hour,” he said, “You could remotely wreck someone, or remotely stop the car.”

Remote access is a danger that researchers are looking at especially as car makers stuff even more technology into their vehicles, even their tires.

Tire pressure monitors have been required in most cars since 2008. Marco Gruteser was able to hack the pressure monitors and researchers were able to capture the monitor signal and trigger a dashboard warning light.

“And make the car think the tires are flat when they are not,” Gruteser said.

Low tire pressure may be the least of

drivers’ concerns.

“Theoretically it is possible to cause accidents,” Gruteser explained.

Some people think that it may have already happened. LAPD investigators ruled out foul play after a controversial journalist was killed in a fiery one-car wreck, but a former terror adviser to President Bush speculated that the accident was consistent with car-hacking.

“Governments, nation states, they definitely have the resources to do things like that. Probably criminal organizations as well,” Valasek said.

“We were able to take control of the brakes, the steering wheel, the headlamps, the seat belts we could tighten them. We could engage the brakes and no matter what you did you couldn’t move the car.”

Researchers say car makers need to step on it, to stay a step ahead of the hackers. Auto makers have said that they are aware of the danger and are working to make car electronics more secure.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 41 ]

CBSMIAMI.COM

There’s good news for expectant mothers who exercise during pregnancy, it may not only improve their health but the brain development of their babies.

W

Staying Active During Pregnancy

Benefits

Mother & Baby

hen Renee Rosen got pregnant her love of working out only grew, along with her belly.

“I’ve always been pretty active. I’m pretty athletic. I do a mixture of yoga 4-5 times a week, flywheel, and strength training,” Rosen told CBS4’s Rhiannon Ally.

Rhiannon joined Renee at a prenatal yoga class at Green Monkey on Miami Beach. Many moms-to-be don’t let their pregnancy slow them down one bit.

A new study found pregnant women who performed low to medium impact workouts for at least 20 minutes a day, 3 days a week, actually help their newborns brain develop faster and could have even more positive effects as the child grows.

“If pregnancy is the time they are going to start an exercise program and healthy lifestyle modification, what better incentive than to do it for your baby?” said Dr. Diana Friend, the Chief of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Kaiser Permanente.

Scientists placed electrode caps on babies eight to twelve days old and measured activity as their brains responded to different sounds.

They say newborns with more physically active mothers had more mature brain function.

Cross-fit instructor Gio Pico continued to teach and practice the workout throughout her pregnancy. “I felt very comfortable working out and cross-fitting,” explained Pico.

Dr. Gene Burkett with the University of Miami School of Medicine said pregnant women who’ve already been doing high-intensity workouts like cross-fit should be fine, if they make some modifications.

“The injury that is likely to happen is to me, the mom, and it’s the hips, knees, so you have to be careful,” said Dr. Burkett.

Exercising is a healthy way to keep fit during pregnancy, but Dr. Burkett advises women listen to their bodies. He recommends swimming as the best activity for pregnant women.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 43 ]

CBS4 Investigates:

MENTAL

MAYHEM Across the nation, mental illness is page one. The man known as the Navy Yard shooter had reportedly complained of hearing messages that he claimed led him to kill. Just weeks later, a Connecticut mother was said to believe the President was trying to communicate with her. She made her way to the nation’s capital and after driving erratically toward the White House, she was shot and killed by police. It’s mayhem all too personal for some South Florida families.

By Michele Gillen

CBSMIAMI.COM

“If somebody says to you ‘God has told me I need to kill,’ don’t dismiss it, don’t laugh at it, don’t say it will never happen.

Take action.

Call a mental health person”

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 45 ]

“H

e held onto me. He was asking me, ‘Why did I want to shoot him, did I have a gun?’”

A South Florida mother shared her family’s personal nightmare with CBS 4 news, desperate to get him help. She explained that her son believed her iPhone was actually a gun.

“I somehow got out of his grasp and ran out the door and called the cops,” she told CBS4 news.

All the while, his family says, he was convinced the government has planted radio frequency chips in his teeth. He wrote on one note…ObamacaresRFID. According to his mother, “He believes that he had four chips in his teeth. That they are tracking him.”

“This is occurring more and more often.

More familes are affected with a loved one,” said Dr. Deborah Mash, Founder of the University of Miami Brain Bank.

Her story is one of heartbreak and fear for this mother and her family.

Alarms began when one of her sons realized that his brother was taping up the windows in his room to block out messages he reportedly thought were being transmitted to his brain. He also covered light fixtures and smoke alarms thinking he was being watched. According to his brother, ”he believes there are cameras in there. He thinks the dogs two eyes have camera as well.”

The family, whose name CBS4 is not revealing, explained they were desperate to find proper help for their loved one, who, for the past two months, has been bouncing in and out of mental health treatment facilities.

She has studied the human brain for two decades and said that with advancements in today’s science, particularly with high tech MRI’s, along with the studies of brains post mortem, mental illness and neurological disorders can be visually detected in the brain.

“The temporal lobe here is where you get the abnormal hallucination and you hear the voices,” she told CBS4 Chief Investigator Michele Gillen. “When a person tells us their hearing voices or they think they have a chip implanted in their brain, this is an abnormal state of activity in the brain. This is something that tells us that they need help immediately.”

Harley Stock is a criminal profiler and forensic psychologist. He knows all too well the

CBSMIAMI.COM

often missed or ignored signs of mental illness.

“The handwriting literally, in some cases, is on the wall,” he tells Gillen as he examined police photos that have never before been seen on TV. Neighbors of a South Florida soldier had no idea his walls were hand painted with ominous messages and drawings. That police said shocked even them.

“I’ve seen things you can not even imagine, and if I saw that…I would get out of there right away and call the police,” Stock told Gillen.

The apartment belonged to a troubled South Florida soldier whose family told CBS4 news had returned from war with PTSD and traumatic brain injury.

Family members had reached out for help for him time and time again alarmed over foreboding messages and his reported stockpiling of weapons.

Stock has reviewed multiple cases of where men and women,in divergent parts of the world, report they hear voices in their head.

“If somebody says to you ‘God has told me I need to kill,’ don’t dismiss it, don’t laugh at it, don’t say it will never happen. Take action. Call a mental health person,” advised Stock But despite the soldiers families efforts to get him help; he ultimately was released from a mental health treatment facility. Within hours of a judge setting him on his way- with a warning not to go near guns; he went home, got a knife and killed himself.

“People are desperate everywhere and it’s sad,” said mental health advocate, Judge Steve Leifman. “Studies indicate that longer we take to treat someone…more likelier there may be permanent brain damage.”

And yet he says that mental health laws and resources for help have not kept up with science;and what is now known about the brain and mental illness.

He said there is no safety net.

“It’s not working. It is failing, ” Leifman cautioned. “If we continue this way, people are going to get hurt, people are going to get killed. Why do we wait for something terrible to happen?”

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 47 ]

CBSMIAMI.COM

New Surgery-Free Age-Defying Procedure The need to look younger is a requirement for some aging models and actresses. It’s also desired by many people outside the entertainment world.

Some of the newer plastic surgery procedures can make people look and feel younger without any actual cutting involved.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 49 ]

T

he latest procedure is the filler called “Voluma.” Used in Europe, it was recently approved by the FDA for strategically plumping up hollow cheeks caused by age or weight loss.

Dr. Leslie Baumann has done test trials on Voluma and is one of the first to use it in South Florida.

“Voluma is formulated to go in the mid face or cheek. It has more lift which means when it’s injected it sort of plumps up and gives the skin more volume,” said Dr. Baumann.

Voluma is considered minimally invasive since the gel is injected into the skin using needles. During a visit by CBS4’s Lisa Petrillo, Dr. Baumann prepped a patient’s cheeks with numbing crème and then injected two vials into her face.

“I don’t feel a thing,” said Cindy.

Unlike many other types of fillers, this one is supposed to last two years which means less visits to the doctor.

Another procedure which has gained

popularity is found at spas and performed by done by estheticians – licensed professionals who are experts in improving and maintaining healthy skin.. Petrillo went to Club Essensia at Delano South Beach to put her face in their hands.

Advanced Infusion Therapy, or microneedling, is a roller covered with 180 tiny needles that is pushed across the face. The needles inject a serum into the skin which is supposed to give it a youthful glow and natural plumping effect.

“The .25 millimeter needle will create tiny wounds in the skin, not scary wounds, very, very tiny,” said esthetician Claire Gross. “The skin will react with a wound healing response.”

The spa tells clients it’s best to come in more than once.

“You will see a difference the first time, but then we recommend every two weeks and then after a series of three or six, you’ll come in about once a month to maintain,” said Gross.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 51 ]

The whole effect is supposed to be Botoxlike without the chemicals. The claim is immediate results.

Another procedure claims to perk you up from the inside out.

Dr. Ivan Rusilko administers vitamins and medication intravenously with a number of goals in mind – from snapping back from a hangover to stepping it up in the bedroom.

“It’s called liquid libido. Everything from stamina to endurance to focus,” said Dr. Rusilko.

Client Samantha Da Silva said she was looking for a general energy boost.

“In this we got all kinds of good stuff, it’s going to be much more tailored to destressing your system which is going to help your skin become brighter, more radiant,” said Dr. Rusilko.

Da Silva said she’s had the treatment before and it definitely works.

“It’s like the best day of your life. You wake up and you’re like 100 percent 100 percent of the time. And the effect lasts not only for a couple of hours, but it lasts for a couple of days instead,” said Da Silva.

“It’s like the best day of your life. You wake up and you’re like 100 percent 100 percent of the time. And the effect lasts not only for a couple of hours, but it lasts for a couple of days instead” Feeling better and looking younger without going under the knife is a concept that’s catching on fast.

“It looks great,” said Cindy after her treatment. “I love it.”

That feeling doesn’t come cheap, however.

The IV therapy starts at $150, Advanced Infusion Therapy runs about $225 dollars a session and Voluma pricing is not available in the U.S. until December, but elsewhere it’ s priced at about $500.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 53 ]

CBSMIAMI.COM

Bobby Flay Hopes To

By By Rhiannon Ally

Cook The Competition With New Miami Restaurant It’s as American as apple pie. Who doesn’t love a good burger and order of french fries? If you throw in a shake and onion rings, you’ve got the heart of the menu at celebrity chef Bobby Flay’s new restaurant in Dadeland Mall.

Flay

said Miami is the perfect location.

“Burgers and fries are a part of America’s landscape and always will be, no matter what’s hot or cold in the food business,” Flay said.

And he said, Miami’s food scene keeps heating up, which is why he chose it for the location of his 17th Burger Palace location.

“Why not Miami? Miami’s cool. It really is. It’s changed so much over the last decade or so. All for the good. The food has gotten to be as exciting as possible,” Flay said. “The international flavor, so the food tastes really good here. There’s also incredible energy, great weather, beaches, and everybody looks good.”

The menu wouldn’t be complete without a nod to Miami. It’s a complete inspiration from the Cuban sandwich. The burger is pressed, with Swiss cheese, smoked ham, mustard, mayo, pickle. This burger really stands out.

If burgers aren’t your thing, perhaps you’ll like one of his famous shakes. His onion rings and hand-cut French fries are also sure to be big hits. But the burgers are the real stars of this restaurant.

“If you want to go home thinking about your burger 3 days later, this is the place to come to,” said Flay.

“Why not Miami?

Miami’s cool.

It really is. It’s changed so much over the last decade or so. All for the good. The food has gotten to be as exciting as possible” Joe Seer / Shutterstock.com

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 55 ]

Home Improvement

Window Treatments Buying Guide

By Lowes.com

Content provided by www.Lowes.com

SHeer CurTaInS Sheers are wispy panels of semi-transparent fabric that soften views and provide moderate privacy. They look best in living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms. Sheers should be layered with other window treatments if privacy is a concern. Choose the right sheers: The kind of fabric you select depends on the look you want to achieve and the level of care you're willing to provide. Polyester sheers have a slight sheen and create a more formal look. They're also easy to launder and require little ironing. Cotton sheers offer a casual, contemporary look.

Lace sheers feel romantic and traditional. Both cotton and lace sheers may need to be cleaned professionally.

For a full, floaty effect with generous waves of fabric, select sheers two or three times the width of the window. You may need to use multiple sheers to achieve this effect.

Sheers are usually light enough to hang from springloaded tension rods, which are inexpensive to install.

CurTaIn PanelS Providing more privacy than sheers, panels are solid pieces of fabric that hang from wall-mounted rods or clips.

They're a great option for media rooms, bedrooms or any room that you want to block light and enjoy complete privacy. Choose the right panels: Fabric choices run from simple cotton and printed polyester to lush velvet, silk, wool and woven tapestry.

Plan to purchase panels one-and-a-half to two times the width of your windows for a stylish effect.

Unlined panels are cheaper but may become semitransparent at night when interior lights are on. Check that you're comfortable with the level of privacy any panel provides.

If intense sun is an issue, as with a west-facing window, look for panels specially lined to block light completely.

Most panels require a sturdy hanging rod, which can be inexpensive metal or something more elaborate. Remember to consider hardware costs when planning a window treatment purchase.

Blackout liners are energy efficient and help to block out nearly 99% of sunlight. They also keep costs down by blocking the heat in the summer and cold in the winter.

BlIndS Strings and hardware, for easy adjustment, connect these thin strips of plastic, wood or metal. They look best on narrow windows in bedrooms, kitchens and workrooms.

Choose the right blinds: Miniblinds have 1/2-inch- to 1/2-inch-wide slats made of very thin material.

Plantation or venetian blinds are 1 to 2 inches wide and made of slightly thicker wood or molded plastic.

Vertical blinds feature strips of fabric and plastic hanging vertically from an overhead track, making them the best option for controlling light and providing privacy with a sliding glass door.

Pre-cut blinds are available in a range of common window sizes and cost much less than custom-sized blinds.

If possible, mount a blind inside the window frame for a cleaner look. Shop for a blind 1 to 2 inches smaller than the width of the opening.

For wide windows, plan to cover the window with two or more smaller blinds. Smaller blinds are easier to operate than long, heavier blinds. roller SHadeS These bolts of vinyl or fabric mount to the top of window frames and unroll manually. They work well on narrow windows in just about any room. Choose the right roller shades: Roller shades are available presized and cost much less than custom-sized shades.

If possible, mount a roller shade inside the window frame for a cleaner look. Shop for a shade 1 to 2 inches smaller than the width of the opening. roman SHadeS These tailored panels of fabric or natural material mount to the inside or top of window frames and bunch up accordion-style when you pull a cord. They work well in any room and window width. Choose the right Roman shades: Roman shades that are presized cost much less than custom shades.

Lined, cloth Roman shades are best for light-blocking and privacy, while unlined shades usually only filter light.

WIndoW SHuTTerS Shutters aren't just for covering the exterior of your windows. They can also add beauty and charm to the inside of your home. These small wood or plastic doors, mounted on each side of the window frame, feature hinges and adjustable slats to allow for varying degrees of light and privacy.

Shutters look great in kitchens, family room, bathrooms and workrooms. Choose the right shutters: Premade cafe shutters extend only part of the way up a window. Open space above the shutters is fine, but you may want to soften the look with a top treatment.

Plantation shutters completely cover the window. Unless your window is a standard size, you'll need to have plantation shutters custom-made.

The actual panels can be solid or outfitted with louvered slats that open and close to let in light.

ValanCeS

To give your windows extra flair, cap them off with top treatments. They look fantastic in any room you want to add a stylish touch to, such as the kitchen, living room, dining room and bedroom. Choose the right top treatments: A valance is a narrow strip of fabric that runs along the top width of a window.

A scarf is a long piece of fabric that you drape over hooks or other hardware to embellish the window and frame.

Pair top treatments with blinds or shades for light control and privacy.

Top treatments often require special mounting hardware.

Remember to consider hardware costs when planning a window treatment purchase.

For a fuller effect with generous waves of fabric, purchase a top treatment with fabric that's two to three times the width of your window or windows.

This article was provided by www.Lowes.com.

January 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 57 ]

Home Improvement

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