Today's Homes September

Leverage the New Inflation Reduction Act

Go Green and Save Big

(BPT) - In August 2022, the U.S. government passed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a comprehensive energy policy bill that provides a record $370 billion for climate and energy initiatives. The act, focused on clean energy and climate change, has wide-reaching implications for individuals and families across the country.

Specifically for homeowners, the IRA comes with incentives to upgrade and install environmentally friendly equipment and

appliances throughout their home. By taking advantage of the tax credit, homeowners can reduce their tax bill by up to $3,200 and offset some of the upfront costs of making energy-efficient home improvements.

The following tips help to break down how homeowners can leverage this new piece of legislation and its home energy incentive programs.

Dive In

Understand the two homeowner incentive programs - Tax Credits and Rebates. The IRA created these two initiatives to empower homeowners to install high-efficiency equipment. Additionally, in some cases, the qualifying equipment may be different.

• Tax Credits

The IRA extended and enhanced a tax credit, the EnergyEfficient Home Improvement Credit (EEHIC). Previously this type of credit was the Non-Business Energy Property Credit, which was restructured and expanded as part of the new law. Federal tax credits can be leveraged for the next 10 years, until December 31, 2032, and apply to the purchase and installation of highly efficient products, including HVAC equipment.

Homeowners can earn up to $2,000, or 30% of the cost of the product and installation, for heat pumps; $600 for highly efficient furnaces; and $600 for qualifying air conditioners. There is a yearly cap on the tax credits of up to $3,200, and the credit cap resets every year. So, a homeowner can replace one system, such as a heat pump, one year and other equipment the next.

• Rebate Program

The High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act (HEEHRA) Program provides point-of-sale consumer discounts to enable low- and moderate-income households across America to electrify their homes. The program covers up to 100% of electrification project costs (up to $14,000) for low-income households and 50% of costs (up to $7,000) for moderate-income households. Eligible homeowners can receive:

• Up to $8,000 for all-electric heat pumps

• Up to $4,000 for an electrical load service center upgrade

• Up to $2,500 for electric wiring

• Up to $14,000 maximum for all eligible measures

HEEHRA can stack with federal energy efficiency and electrification tax credits.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of the two incentive programs within the IRA, here is a quick checklist on how homeowners can best leverage the IRA:

• Meet the necessary requirements:

In order to qualify for the credit, homeowners must meet certain requirements, such as using products that adhere to specific energy efficiency standards. The amount of savings an individual can expect depends largely on the type of appliance. One must obtain a Manufacturer’s Certification Statement - a signed statement from the manufacturer certifying that the product or component qualifies for the tax credit. Rheem, an innovator in manufacturing HVAC equipment, has a number of heating and cooling devices which qualify for the tax credit.

• Assess your current situation:

Homeowners may benefit from the IRA’s tax credit for energy audits. Hiring a qualifying inspector and conducting a professional energy assessment of the home can help provide a roadmap and determine all the areas where savings can be leveraged.

• Upgrade heating and cooling appliances:

Natural gas prices are continuing to rise, making energyefficient upgrades to products like heat pumps an efficient and cost-effective choice. For water heating, this tax credit gives homeowners equal to 30% of installation costs for qualified highefficiency products, up to: $600 for gas-fired tankless and gasfired tank type storage water heaters; and $2,000 for ultra-highefficiency heat pump water heaters. Owners can also consider installing a geothermal heat pump in their homes which could entitle homeowners to a federal tax credit of up to 30% of the cost, including installation, with no upper limit.

Once homeowners take the necessary steps and feel empowered to make equipment changes, they can expect to see the following benefits:

• Save money on federal income taxes:

By taking advantage of the tax credit, homeowners can reduce their tax bill, providing big savings for their family.

• Reduce energy bills:

By making energy-efficient improvements to their homes, homeowners can reduce energy usage and lower their monthly utility bills.

• Increase the value of a home:

Energy-efficient upgrades can make homes more attractive to potential buyers, who may be willing to pay more for a home that is eco-friendly and has lower energy bills.

An increasing number of homeowners today are concerned about the impact they are having on the environment. Seeking home solutions that are energy efficient and lower emissions, while utilizing IRA incentives, makes it easier for homeowners to win on all fronts. In addition, when considering making the switch to energy-efficient products, leading manufacturers, such as Rheem, also provide details on a variety of other incentives that can be leveraged. By making energy-efficient home improvements, homeowners can save money while reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Serving Middle Tennessee for 25 Years

Launched locally in 1998, California Closets of Tennessee has been proudly serving the Middle Tennessee market for 25 years.

The locally owned and operated franchise of the nationally recognized leader in custom-designed organizational solutions for the whole home is driven by a community-focused and customer-focused initiative that changes lives – they call it “business for good.”

With California Closets, you’re not just getting the highest quality custom solutions with a (limited) lifetime warranty, but five-star service. From your first consultation to installation, California Closets of Tennessee’s team of approximately 50 local employees all pull in the same direction to ensure your success and satisfaction.

These efforts have resulted in California Closets of Tennessee earning more five-star Google reviews in the market than anyone else in the category.

A consistent innovation leader within the international franchise, California Closets of Tennessee won Top Franchise of the Year in 2020. A local point of pride as each installation in the market is crafted right here in Nashville at the company’s Center of Excellence.

Over the years its designers have transformed surprising areas into dream closets, like turning wasted space under the eaves in an older home into a purpose-built walk-in dressing room. Or utilizing an empty wall for a dropdown murphy bed to keep a home office/guest room uncluttered (and so much comfier!). Garage, kitchen, or pantry? If it needs organizing and optimizing, the designers at California Closets are the experts.

The Tennessee franchise has many favorite designs from the past 25 years that show off the breadth of its vision and range. Some clients have asked for their amazing assortment of shoes or handbags to be put on display – and, yes, it can be showcased in

high style with their help.

If you’d rather have everything tucked invisibly away, California Closets of Tennessee can craft a custom, made-to-measure design that keeps it all out of sight. They’ve taken an uninsulated and unorganized garage and transformed it into a state-of-the-art man cave, complete with putting green. Even washing clothes can be a joy when your laundry room is elegant and organized.

Back to “business for good,” beyond being passionate about keeping their clients organized, California Closets of Tennessee owner Kurt Schusterman believes deeply in giving back to the

community. Designers regularly donate their time and talent to charitable projects, such as the St. Jude Dream Home, O’More Designer Showhouse, and the Nashville Rescue Mission. They have also partnered with local nonprofits including Thistle Farms, Dress for Success, Men of Valor, and Soles 4 Souls.

It’s been an incredible 25 years for California Closets of Tennessee and we can’t wait to see what other dreams they make come true in the next 25.

©2023 California Closet Company, Inc. Each California Closets® franchised location is independently owned and operated.

DIY Tips:

Installing Decorative Crown Molding

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to dress up a room in your home, crown molding can be a simple way to add elegance and class with minimal investment.

Crown molding is most commonly applied as a decorative trim where the walls meet the ceiling. It is often painted the same color as the baseboards, door frames and other woodwork, but can be colored to match the ceiling or a different shade to create extra drama.

Though the corner angles may be especially daunting for do-it-yourself types, installing crown molding is a project you can tackle without the assistance of a professional. However, it is a good idea to ask for help along the way, as all the measuring, marking and holding up pieces for nailing can be a bit much for one person.

This step-by-step guide can show you how to create a striking design element in your home:

1. Measure the perimeter of your room, remembering to take into account any insets or bump-outs that add additional inches. Be sure to pad your total when purchasing materials to allow for a mistake (or two).

2. Prime and paint the molding, front and back, and allow it to dry completely.

3. Mark the studs near the ceiling on all walls so you can securely attach the molding.

4. Measure from the ceiling down the depth of the molding and mark this point. Using a level, establish a baseline for the length of each wall.

5. Use a miter saw or coping saw to trim angles for corner pieces. Remember the molding as it lays on the saw table is the inverse of its fit to the wall, so you may want to make a few practice cuts to be sure you’re trimming angles properly. A good rule of thumb: For outside corners, the top edge is longer; for inside corners, the longer edge is on the bottom.

6. Attach molding using a nail gun, making sure to hit as many studs as possible for secure attachment.

7. On the sections that fit in corners, nail the center of the molding first, leaving the corner end loose. Use a wood shim or screwdriver behind the bottom edge of the molding to make adjustments and eliminate gaps before securing the corners.

8. Where you join two pieces for a long stretch of wall, be sure the seam falls over a stud, so you can nail both ends firmly in place. For the most polished look, fit the ends of these pieces together with complementary 45-degree angles.

9. If your nails aren’t fully sunk, use a nail set to press them deeper. Use wood putty to cover nail holes.

10. Caulk all seams using a thin stream and use a finger dipped in water to smooth away excess.

11. Touch up paint, especially over putty spots and seams.

Find more tips for upgrading your home at eLivingtoday.com.

Boost Curb Appeal

with Budget-Friendly Ideas

Your home’s first big impression is its curb appeal, so if your place is in need of some sprucing up, you may wonder how you can make some updates without breaking the bank. These 10 ideas are easy on budgets, but they can also make a big impact on your home’s exterior image.

Paint your front door.

As long as your front door is in good condition, there’s no need to replace it completely. A fresh coat of paint can instantly update your home’s facade. Go bold or stick with a classic hueit’s all up to you.

Dress up the windows.

Add character and charm by enhancing your front windows. You might add wooden shutters, window box planters or both. Also look at the trim around the windows. If it’s chipped and peeling, adding a fresh coat of paint doesn’t just look nice, it can protect your windows from damage, too.

Clean up flower beds.

An unkempt flower bed can drag down an otherwise stunning home. Keep beds tidy and vegetation trimmed, even during the offseason. Watch for weeds and replenish mulch or rock ground cover as needed to keep the beds looking healthy and inviting.

Install new lighting.

Replacing outdated light fixtures can give your exterior an instant upgrade. There’s no right or wrong style; just choose a color and look that matches the rest of your design.

Replace worn welcome mats.

A cheerful mat at your front door can be an inviting sight for visitors, but those mats inevitably wear with time, and what was once bright and charming becomes dingy and dull. A new mat can help bring back that cheery entry you once cherished.

Find

Pressure wash the drive and walk.

Over time, driveways and sidewalks collect an incredible amount of grime. Pressure washing not only eliminates the filth, but the clean surfaces also add to your home’s visual appeal.

Add new vegetation.

Landscaping is a relatively inexpensive way to introduce more personality to a yard. Aim for a mix of pretty and practical, such as some low flowering bushes and some trees or bushes that offer privacy and shade.

Keep up with basic maintenance.

When your home is in poor repair, it shows. Pay attention to bent or rusting gutters, imperfections in the roof and other maintenance matters that aren’t just aesthetic; left unrepaired, they can also result in major damage.

Pay attention to details.

Functional items like the mailbox might not seem like much of a design element, but these small details can be a big distraction if they’re not in good condition. Update or replace as needed to keep your aesthetic in sync.

Add seasonal decor.

There’s no need to go all out for every occasion, but some timely decorations that celebrate the holiday or season can make your entry fun and festive. Coordinate wreaths, planters, signs and other accent pieces for a cohesive look that says, “come on in.”

Cool

Under-Deck Living Space

(BPT) - Many homeowners don’t realize that the space below a deck can offer tremendous potential. With a little creativity and the simple addition of an under-deck drainage system, the area beneath a deck can be used for almost anything, from additional living space to discreet and waterproof storage. Using a network of troughs and downspouts, an easy-to-install system like Trex® RainEscape® captures and diverts water away from a deck, protecting the area underneath from the outdoor elements and allowing for it to be outfitted with everything from furnishings and accessories to ceiling fans, lighting, appliances and entertainment components. Here are 10 ways to make the most of this bonus outdoor space:

Soak in Serenity

If you love spending time outside, even during winter, a hot tub is a great addition that works with any size deck, so long as the overhead space is larger than the tub. This protection from the weather means you can enjoy a relaxing soak whether there’s sun, rain or snow.

Watch the Seasons Change

Why create a space you can only enjoy for a few months? By enclosing the area beneath an elevated deck with windows and screens, you can enjoy the great outdoors in comfort no matter the season or the weather.

Bring the Indoors Out

By protecting the area beneath a deck, you can virtually double your outdoor living space. This patio incorporates a seating area, dining table, and an outdoor kitchen, creating a setting well-suited for any outdoor occasion.

Factor in Fun

If you’re tight on space underneath the deck but still want a design element with unique flair, installing a swing is a fun addition. A swing doesn’t take up a huge amount of space and is the perfect spot to enjoy a breezy afternoon.

Create an Under-Deck Café

Let’s say you enjoy the idea of dining outside, but you’re not up for a full-blown outdoor kitchen. Consider opting for an outdoor cafe-style area. This design turns a stone wall into a countertop for enjoying morning coffee, a cocktail or even a meal.

Get Cooking

There’s no need to miss a moment of fun with a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. With the Trex RainEscape system, gas lines and electrical wiring can be run safely and discreetly between the deck surface and a soffit ceiling to accommodate whatever may be on the menu.

View with a View

Shielded from the elements and outfitted with comfortable furnishings, a wet bar, and a mounted flat screen television, this space offers an oasis for watching movies, sports or binging your favorite shows with family and friends.

Keep it Cozy

Whether hosting a wine night for friends or having a night in with your family, incorporating a fireplace into your underdeck area creates a pleasant spot to enjoy a night of fresh air, while ultimately elevating the ambience.

Dine Al Fresco

An al fresco dining area takes any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Think beyond the traditional grill and patio furnishings to create an elegant, open-air gathering spot. Incorporate soffit lights into the ceiling to enhance ambiance and extend the usability of the space.

Store in Style

When properly protected, the space beneath a deck is ideal for storage. Seasonal items such as pool equipment, gardening tools, patio furniture and yard games can be safely tucked away. Size permitting, this space can even be used to house grills, lawnmowers, bicycles, ATVs and snowmobiles.

For more ideas and information, visit TrexRainEscape.com.

Upgrade Your Remote Workspace

With remote and hybrid work schedules here to stay for many Americans, it’s important to have a space dedicated to comfort and productivity. The initial transition to remote work may have involved setting up an impromptu workstation at the dining room table but creating a long-term, functional home office can be one of the first steps to increasing efficiency, focus and productivity. Whether your work area is a spacious room, small den or desk in a quiet spot in the house, these ideas can help you create a space where you enjoy working.

Select the Perfect Location

While some remote workers have a spare bedroom or den they can dedicate as a home office, others may need to create a multiuse area in which office space occupies another room, such as the dining room, family room or basement. If you have several options for your workspace, consider how lighting and sound may impact your ability to focus.

For example, positioning your desk near a window can help increase your mood and reduce boredom. Similarly, if possible, choose a location where noise from other family members moving around or traffic outside will be less of a distraction. Earplugs or background noise can help drown out sounds if you’re restricted to a specific location in your home.

Keep Color in Mind

Colors can influence productivity and mood, so it’s important to consider them when designing or updating your workspace. Avoid white, which can lead to boredom, and instead choose a color scheme that can make a positive impact. Warm colors like red or orange can increase energy; blues are relaxing and can help keep blood pressure down; and green can help reduce stress.

An on-trend option like the Granny Chic Home Office from Wellborn Cabinet, Inc., can be set up in nearly any area of the home to create a stylish workspace. Featuring Premier Series cabinets with Napa doors in an olive finish and satin nickel hardware, this desk and hutch also includes base and crown moulding to help set it apart as a space devoted to productivity. Plus, accessories like a wastebasket pullout, drawer inserts and dividers, and tiered organizers can make organization easy.

Choose a Desk and Chair

Start by measuring your space to see how large of a desk you can accommodate then decide between a traditional desk or trendy adjustable-height version, which can allow you to sit and stand throughout the workday and has been shown to provide health benefits in addition to increasing work performance. An ergonomic chair with a padded seat and armrests is also a must-have to provide lumbar support and increase comfort while seated.

Find Storage Solutions

Storage is one of the most critical aspects when designing your home office. To avoid clutter and keep documents and other items organized, consider options such as built-in cabinets and shelving, base cabinets with desk file drawers, utility cabinets and wall bookcases. You can even customize your cabinets and choose from a wide selection of styles including traditional, transitional, casual, formal, contemporary or eclectic with options from Wellborn Cabinet.

Add Plants and Decor

Office plants provide numerous benefits, including improving air quality and increasing productivity. In fact, a study published in the “Journal of Environmental Horticulture” found productivity increased 12% when workers performed a task on a computer in a room with plants compared to those who performed the task in the same room without plants. Low-maintenance species such as orchids and succulents also produce a pleasant aroma and earthy atmosphere to decrease stress.

In addition, consider your space’s decorations if you will be conducting video calls. If your home office doesn’t have much natural light, place a light source behind the camera. While the background for your calls should be relatively neutral, a mural or art on the walls or shelves can complement your professionalism and add a creative touch to your space.

Lawrence CRS

M. Lipman, CRS ReMax Collection (615) 364-3333 lipmanhomesandestates.com

Real Estate Licenses are

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Dan Minor, CRS Parks Properties (615) 383-6600

Molly Edmondson, CRS Fridrich & Clark Realty, LLC (615) 351-8753

Price

Lechleiter, CRS Pilkerton Realtors (615) 347-4688 pricel@realtracs.com

Weaver Felch, CRS Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty (615)

Starling Davis, CRS, GRI Fridrich & Clark Realty, LLC (615) 327-4800

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Alice Moore Weaver, CRS Corcoran Reverie (615) 300-7449

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Why Use A CRS Realtor?

Today, home buying and selling is faster, more complex, and more competitive in every way. Our goal is to make the process a little easier for you. The first step is to choose one of the CRS Realtors on these two pages.

Experience

To earn the Certified Specialist (CRS) Designation, every realtor must have significant experience and volume of real estate transactions.

Technology Expertise:

The training available to CRS realtors includes a strong focus on technology and its applications in the real estate business.

A Focus on Home Buying and Selling:

To help make the home buying and selling process more rewarding, every CRS realtor must have a proven track record in the business, as well as advanced education in related area like finance, technology and marketing.

Ethics

Every CRS realtor is required to maintain membership in the National Association of Realtors and to abide by its strict code of ethics.

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Julie Casassa, CRS Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty (615) 482-0029

Rena C. Ellzy, CRS Weichert Realtors/ The Andrews Group (615) 383-3142 Realestatewidsom@yahoo.com

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Charlotte Ann Edwards Broker®, ABR, CRS, ePro, GRI Parks Realty - Green Hills (615)

CAEdwards@realtracs.com

Attract Backyard Birds with the Right Seeds

While almost all bird seed may look pretty much the same to you, it doesn’t to the birds you’re feeding. Knowing what kinds of seeds different birds like can help you attract a variety of fine feathered friends to your feeders.

Consider these popular seed types and the common backyard birds they attract:

Sunflower - Black sunflower seeds attract blue jays, goldfinches, woodpeckers, purple finches, chickadees, titmice and nuthatches. Striped sunflower seeds appeal to chickadees, doves, grosbeaks, northern cardinals, nuthatches, titmice and woodpeckers. Sunflower hearts (also known as “hulled sunflower” and “sunflower chips”) attract chickadees, common redpolls, juncos, doves, finches, goldfinches, grosbeaks, nuthatches, pine siskins, titmice and woodpeckers.

Nyjer - These lightweight, tiny seeds are a favorite of goldfinches. Put nyjer seeds in a hanging feeder with tiny holes so the small seeds won’t get blown away. Nyjer also attracts redpolls, juncos, doves, indigo bunting and pine siskin.

Safflower - These white seeds are slightly smaller than black sunflower seeds. Because they are bitter, grackles, blue jays, starlings - and squirrels - don’t like them. However, they do attract doves, purple finches, chickadees, titmice and downy woodpeckers.

White Millet - Good for scattering on the ground, white millet attracts ground feeders such as juncos, sparrows, indigo buntings, towhees and mourning doves.

Cracked Corn - Popular with ground feeders, cracked corn appeals to doves, crows, jays, sparrows, juncos and towhees. Avoid getting finely cracked corn as it’s vulnerable to rot and can quickly turn to mush.

When choosing a bird seed mix, pay attention to the ingredients list on the package. Bird seed is required by law to list ingredients in order of content. Some cheaper mixes have filler seeds such as wheat, red milo, red millet or “assorted grain products.” Most backyard birds won’t eat those, and your seed mix could end up wasted on the ground.

Learn more about making your backyard an oasis for birds of all kinds at eLivingtoday.com.

Tips for Choosing

Your Next Favorite Grill

(BPT) - There’s nothing like sunshine, a warm breeze and the smell of delicious food on the grill. According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, it’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate everything you love about outdoor cooking. If you already have a grill, this is a great time to upgrade, so you can cook more dishes for bigger get-togethers, or to try a different kind of grill, letting you experiment with new techniques like using a smoker.

What kind of grill is best for you? It depends on your space, what you like to cook and how you like to prepare it. First, ask yourself the following questions:

How much time do you want to spend cooking? If you’ve got a busy schedule, you may prefer the convenience of gas or electric grills. However, if you love spending time perfecting the perfect outdoor meal, you may enjoy a charcoal grill, smoker or kamado grill.

How much space do you have? Do you host frequent large gatherings? Go big on your barbecue size to optimize these special occasions. For a big backyard, a larger grill with a kitchen island can create a focal point for entertaining. But a premium portable or compact grill is your best option if you live in a condo or apartment, or for a cabin or other vacation destination with limited space.

What do you love to cook? Many grills offer extra features for particular foods. Think rotisseries if you love roasted chicken, or side burners for soups and stews. Crave the ‘za? Consider a grill with ample space for pizza stones.

To help you discover your next favorite grill, here are the features of five major grill types to consider when making your choice.

Gas:

If you want convenience and faster meal prep, a gas grill may be right for you. As with your kitchen stove, your food can be ready to cook in 10 minutes - and it’s easy to regulate cooking temperatures.

Charcoal:

If you love being hands-on with the nuances of outdoor grilling, a charcoal grill may be the choice for you. Some say charcoal provides the best flavor experience. You can use your charcoal grill for classic low and slow cooking - and high heat searing.

Pellet:

This a great option for people seeking optimal flavor. With available pellets in hickory, mesquite and oak, you can enjoy a truly flavorful cooking experience.

Electric:

If simplicity appeals to you most, an electric grill may be your best bet. Designed to produce constant heat and operate without an open flame - without charcoal or propane - they’re especially suited for apartment or condo dwellers.

Kamado:

For people who love cooking all styles and who keep grilling year-round, Kamado Grills’ excellent insulation works perfectly for both grilling and smoking. They’re very versatile, use wood and charcoal, and can also roast or bake.

Few products come in as wide an array of price ranges as grills, so almost anyone who wants a grill can find one that’s within their budget. But remember - a more premium grill offers many more features to enjoy and tends to last longer, providing a stronger return on your investment.

Ready to get out there and cook? Get back to barbecue with this delicious recipe for Grilled Chicken Fajitas from food writer Brad Prose, founder of Chiles and Smoke. All you need is two pounds of chicken wings, Mexican seasonings like chili powder, chipotle powder, ginger and limes for a tasty marinade (4-12 hours), then you can wow your friends and family by grilling or smoking these flavorful wings.

Explore recipes and plenty of grilling inspiration at WhyIGrill. org - or find your new grill by locating a retailer near you at HPBA.org/Resources/Store-Locator.

Fight Hunger with Family Meals

Selfless ways to support community members in need

With hectic day-to-day schedules and varying dietary needs, many families face the dreaded daily question: “What sounds good for dinner?” In contrast, millions struggle to put food on the table each night, impacting about 1 in 8 children, according to Feeding America.

You can help support those in need through Safeway and Albertsons’ “Fight Hunger, Serve Hope” cause program - an initiative to fight hunger in local communities during summer months when households with school-aged children face higher rates of food insecurity. The company’s private label will donate one meal for every O Organics(r) product purchased, up to $7 million and the equivalent of 28 million meals. Donations will be made to Nourishing Neighbors, a program of Albertsons Companies Foundation, to fund grants dedicated to providing healthy meals for at-risk youth throughout the summer.

“While summertime sparks excitement for countless students, it also marks the unfortunate reality that millions of children face when they lose access to school cafeteria lunches and breakfasts they depend on throughout the school year,” said Jennifer Saenz, EVP and chief merchandising officer at Albertsons Companies. “As a company, we are committed to making a difference in the lives of children in need. For the first time, we are making it easier than ever for our customers to support this mission by connecting each purchase of our O Organics brand to hunger relief efforts in the communities we serve.”

Following the campaign period, families looking to help in their communities can give back in a variety of ways.

Donate Canned Goods

Once school is in session, many classrooms participate in canned food drives for a variety of causes while serving a dual purpose: feeding those in need and teaching children the importance of giving back. Sending your students to school with canned goods can show them the value of helping others and instill a sense of responsibility.

Volunteer at a Food Pantry

Sharing valuable resources like canned goods helps make a difference in communities, but local food pantries also need willing volunteers to sort and distribute food, among other duties. It can provide a unique sense of perspective as you meet other volunteers, improve the lives of people in your community and gain new skills.

Promote the Power of Family Meals

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner or all three, sharing a meal with neighbors can be a powerful moment. It provides an opportunity to connect while enjoying easy-to-make recipes like Ribeye Steak, Grape Tomato and Mushroom Kebabs; Grilled Chicken Salad with Goat Cheese, Fresh Raspberries and Pecans; and Mixed Berry-Lime Smoothie Bowl with Banana and Granola.

Find more meal ideas by visiting Safeway.com and Albertsons.com

Ribeye Steak, Grape Tomato and Mushroom Kebabs

Recipe courtesy of Safeway and Albertsons

Total time: 30 minutes

2 cloves garlic

1/2 small bunch Italian (flat-leaf) parsley

1/4 cup O Organics extra-virgin olive oil

1/8 cup red wine vinegar

2 teaspoons O Organics Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

3/4 pound O Organics ribeye steak

1/2 pint O Organics grape tomatoes

1/4 pound O Organics white mushrooms

green pepper, sliced (optional)

1/2 medium red onion

6 skewers

Peel and mince garlic. Wash and dry parsley. Shave leaves off stems; discard stems and mince leaves.

In large bowl, whisk minced garlic, half the minced parsley (reserve remainder for garnish), olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper.

Cut steak into cubes; transfer to marinade bowl and toss to coat.

Wash tomatoes, mushrooms and green pepper. Halve mushrooms. Add tomatoes, mushrooms and green pepper to marinade. Peel onion and cut into chunks; add to marinade. Toss beef and vegetables until well coated.

Heat grill pan, outdoor grill or skillet to medium-high heat.

Thread steak and vegetables onto six skewers.

Cook kebabs in batches until steak is browned and vegetables are tender, 3-5 minutes per side. Transfer to plate and repeat with remaining kebabs.

To serve, plate kebabs and sprinkle with remaining minced parsley.

Mixed Berry-Lime Smoothie Bowl with

Banana and Granola

Recipe courtesy of Safeway and Albertsons

Total time: 10 minutes

Yield: 3 cups

1 banana

1/2 package (6 ounces) O Organics blackberries

1/2 lime

2 cups O Organics frozen mixed berries

1 cup plain O Organics Greek yogurt

4 fluid ounces O Organics whole milk

1/8 cup O Organics honey

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2/3 cup O Organics granola of choice

Wash and dry banana and blackberries.

Peel and thinly slice banana; set aside.

Zest and juice lime into blender. Add frozen mixed berries, yogurt, milk, honey and cinnamon. Blend on high speed until smooth, 1-2 minutes.

To serve, divide smoothie between bowls and top with banana, blackberries and granola.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Grilled Chicken Salad with Goat Cheese, Fresh Blueberries and Pecans

Recipe courtesy of Safeway and Albertsons

Total time: 20 minutes

3/4 pound boneless, skinless O Organics chicken breasts

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

2 teaspoons O Organics extra-virgin olive oil

1 package (5 ounces) O Organics spring mix

1 package (6 ounces) O Organics blueberries (or desired berry)

1/4 cup O Organics pecan halves

3 tablespoons O Organics olive oil

1 tablespoon O Organics balsamic vinegar

1/2 log (4 ounces) O Organics goat cheese

Pat chicken dry with paper towels and place on cutting board. Cut chicken in half horizontally to form thin cutlets.

Season with salt and pepper on both sides.

Preheat grill pan, outdoor grill or skillet to medium-high heat.

Once pan is hot, coat with oil. Add chicken to pan and grill, turning once, until cooked through, 3-4 minutes per side.

Wash and dry spring mix. Place in medium bowl.

Wash and dry blueberries. Add to bowl with mixed greens. Using clean cutting board, roughly chop pecans. Add to bowl.

Transfer cooked chicken to cutting board and cut into thin strips.

In bowl, mix olive oil and balsamic vinegar to create dressing.

Add chicken and dressing to salad bowl; toss to combine.

To serve, divide salad between plates or bowls and crumble goat cheese over top.

Keep Your Home and Packages Secure while you’re on vacation

(BPT) - Ready to take that long-awaited vacay? Before heading out for fun, make sure you’ll be able to fully relax and enjoy your break by taking a few steps to help keep your home secureincluding deliveries that might be made while you’re gone. Here are some tips and tools to help increase your peace of mind while you’re away from home.

Alert Your Neighbors - But Not Social Media

Before your trip, chat with trusted neighbors to let them know you’ll be on vacation. Those extra eyes on your home can help you feel better about taking off. Just don’t post about your trip on social media - there’s no need to let the world know you’ll be out of your house.

Help Make Your Deliveries Safe

adding a Ring Camera (sold separately), you can even watch your packages be safely delivered in real-time.

Monitor Your Home While You’re Away

You can set up Motion Alerts to notify you when there’s activity at your front door with a Ring Video Doorbell or near one of your Ring security cameras. You’ll be able to see what’s happening in real-time and choose to use Two-Way Talk as needed to chat with someone on your property. For additional whole home protection, the Ring Alarm Security Kit works on any house, condo or apartment. You’ll have peace of mind that your home is always protected, so you can just relax and enjoy whatever you’re doing, wherever you are.

“With services like Amazon Key-In Garage Delivery and the Package Detection feature on Ring Video Doorbells, you can worry less about deliveries going missing while you’re away,” said Paul-David Shrader, Head of Amazon Key for Consumer. “Many customers say just the sight of a video doorbell or camera is enough of a deterrent in getting trespassers to leave their properties.”

Set Timers for Lighting

Another important tactic while vacationing is to use lighting to make it appear someone is home. You can connect smart lights to your home security cameras to have lights turn on/off, or set up light schedules with Alexa to turn lights on and off at certain times each night. Even if you just set one lamp near a front window, it will look like someone is home.

Pre-set Your HVAC

Instead of worrying about a package arriving while you’re gone, use Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery, a convenient, secure way to receive Amazon packages and groceries. With In-Garage Delivery, drivers scan your package to receive one-time access to deliver inside the garage. No need to give out garage codes or let the driver in yourself. Porch pirates don’t stand a chance and it also helps protect from weather damage, so you can keep any packages secure until you’re home.

Amazon Key is free for Prime members and easy to set up. Plus, it gives you more flexibility and control over your Amazon deliveries by allowing you to select a preferred delivery method and choosing when and where you want your packages delivered - inside your garage or to your doorstep. At checkout, just select In-Garage Delivery and Amazon Key will take care of the rest. You’ll receive real-time notifications every step of the way, and by

Completely turning your HVAC off to save money can be a bad idea. Not only will it look like nobody’s home if your AC unit isn’t running while it’s sweltering, but you could also damage internal structures of the house due to excessive humidity. On top of that, your AC unit will have to work non-stop to get the temperature back down when you return, eliminating cost savings you hoped for by shutting it off completely. A good rule of thumb is to raise the temperature about 5 degrees from your usual setting when you leave town. To be able to adjust the temperature while you’re away, consider installing a smart thermostat that you can control remotely.

Following these few simple steps, you can ensure your home and packages will be safe and secure, whether you’re on the road or on the beach.

Unlocking Hidden Potential

Elevate Your Laundry Room

(BPT) - When you’re seeking ways to optimize your home, it’s easy to overlook the humble laundry room. But there are many ways to improve your experience of this room, making it more functional and attractive. A beautifully appointed laundry room is a sight to behold, helping to transform ordinary tasks into enjoyable routines.

If you’re ready to turn your laundry room into a space you love, consider these upgrades.

Shed some light on the subject

Is your laundry room too dark? Improving the room’s lighting will make daily chores easier to do while also making the room feel more bright and cheerful. You may need to add several recessed lights to really see well, especially if there’s no window, and cooler-colored LED lights can help you sort colors better.

Consider adding a window if possible, or enlarging an existing window to boost natural light. Applying a fresh coat of lightcolored or white paint can also make any space feel open and airy.

Make it functional and multi-purpose

Every good laundry room needs a utility sink deep enough to soak soiled clothing. How about a sink you can also use to bathe your dog? You can create the perfect pet beauty parlor with a 12” deep Cairn Utility Sink from KOHLER. It offers a generous workspace, along with a stainless steel utility sink and accompanying wash bin. Both slide on the ledge in the sink, so

you can tailor it to suit your needs. The offset drain increases the sink’s workspace as well as potential for storage underneath. Its soft curves and matte finish add beauty to any room, and you can choose one of six colors to suit your design: White, Black, Taupe, Grey, Graphite, Brown and Black Plum. The sink is made of KOHLER Neoroc composite material that’s extremely durable and will resist scratches and stains.

To make it easier to use your new sink for washing your pet or anything else, choose a handshower or faucet that functions well and looks even better. KOHLER’s Awaken four-function handshower provides advanced spray performance with three distinct sprays - wide coverage, intense drenching or targetedwith the smooth rotation of a thumb tab.

Or consider the Crue touchless pull-down sink faucet with a three-function sprayhead. The Crue faucet collection represents a true high point in user-focused, sophisticated plumbing design. The contemporary silhouette - a simple arched spout and single lever handle - offers a straightforward style that adapts to nearly any room design, and the touchless functionality makes tasks simpler.

Get organized

Increasing shelving and/or cupboard space is always smart for a laundry room upgrade. If you select open shelving, use matching baskets, boxes or trays to create a unified look. Make sure to include a large drying rack to hang delicates and other items that need to be air dried.

One idea that’s seriously trending is combining the laundry area with the mudroom, which helps contain the mess coming in from outside. When designing your mudroom/laundry room, make sure to provide sturdy benches for sitting and removing bootsideally with space inside for added storage.

Not just for kitchens anymore, installing an island in your laundry room is a great way to provide the perfect folding space - and another opportunity to add more storage underneath. Limited space? Consider using a rolling kitchen cart.

Elevate the situation

One way to truly elevate your laundry room is to put your machines up on pedestals. This option not only makes maintenance and cleaning a lot easier, but is also much gentler on your back - you’ll do a lot less leaning and bending over every laundry day.

Flaunt your style

There’s no reason your laundry room can’t also be pretty. Consider bright paint colors or whimsical wallpaper when you’re giving the room a makeover. Fun art accents and even a whiteboard or chalkboard for laundry instructions (or playful notes!) may encourage more family members to join the laundry routine.

Even achieving a couple of these upgrades can make a big difference in how you use and perceive the humble laundry room. Following through with all of them might just make it your favorite room in the house.

Organize

Bathroom Clutter

Due to their small size and heavy usage, bathrooms can become messy, cluttered areas for many families. For those with smaller bathrooms, storage solutions can be even harder to find. Consider these organization tips to make your bathroom a clean and functional space for every member of the family:

Assess the Mess:

Go through all the cabinets and drawers to clear out unused makeup, health care products and medications. Make sure the items you keep are used on a regular basis. Items used sparingly should be placed in an alternate location.

Go Vertical:

Medicine cabinets can quickly get stuffed when combs, toothpaste and other toiletries are stored horizontally. Use organizer cups with suction adhesives to contain items vertically and save space.

Hang Up in Style:

Old coat racks and ladders make perfect solutions for larger families to hang multiple towels. Snag an old one from a thrift store and paint it a bright hue, like red or turquoise, for a stylish bathroom accent piece.

Avoid Spills and Squirts:

Hair products, such as gels, mousses or hairsprays, can create sticky, tough-to-clean messes if liquid escapes the container in a drawer or cabinet. Avoid such mishaps by placing these types of items in plastic tubs instead of directly in the drawer or on a shelf.

Divide and Conquer:

Bathroom drawers can become unruly if not organized. To keep items separate and tidy, insert dividers, such as those used for kitchen utensils. These often come in fun materials, such as bamboo or stainless steel, to add a fresh look.

Assign Cabinets or Drawers:

Try to use a large enough cabinet so each member of the family has his or her own space or drawer. This can help limit the amount of items high-maintenance family members can bring into the small area. Plus, it makes it easier for everyone to find their things.

Find more tips to transform your bathroom into a clean, organized environment, regardless of its size, at eLivingtoday.com.

How to Create Rain Barrels for Your Garden

Gardeners typically understand plenty of water, good ground and a steady stream of sunshine all play vital roles in the food production process.

However, on those hot, dry days when there isn’t any rain in sight, harvesting rain and storing it may be a perfect solution. A tried-and-true gadget like a rain barrel allows for the collection of rainwater from a home’s gutter system for later use.

Not only are rain barrels budget-friendly and good for the environment, they’re also good for your plants and crops. Rainwater is chemical-free, non-chlorinated, naturally soft, oxygen rich and warmer than water coming from the hose or sprinkler. That means flowers, trees, vegetables and shrubs may be more vibrant and hearty when irrigated with rainwater.

The nuts and bolts of making a rain barrel are simple. All it takes are three holes cut into a 55-gallon barrel and a few supplies from the hardware store:

1) A small hole is cut into the side of the barrel, just 2 1/2 inches from the bottom. A brass adapter is then inserted so a hose can be attached for easy watering.

2) The second hole allows excess water to drain away if the barrel gets too full. It is made approximately 4 inches from the top of the barrel, directly above the hose adapter.

3) Drill a large hole into the top 2 inches from the side of the barrel. This hole must align with a downspout in your home’s guttering system. It is often fitted with a screen to filter out sticks, leaves and other debris.

Instead of a rain barrel, create a simple collection system by placing any recycled, water-tight container directly under a downspout. Buckets, trash cans and large pots make for easy collection containers.

Find more solutions for your garden at eLivingtoday.com.

6 Small, Kind Gestures to make a Big Impact Each Day

Everywhere you look, you can see moments of kindness. From a friend sending a thoughtful text message to a stranger holding the bus for someone running late or a person paying for someone else’s coffee, acts of kindness happen every day. While these moments can have a monumental impact on the person on the receiving end, they often go unrecognized.

In fact, a study published in the “Journal of Experimental Psychology” found that performing acts of kindness improves individual well-being and leads to more positive moods. At the same time, many people underestimate the impact their kindness may have on themselves and others.

To help foster positive connection among friends, family and communities, which the U.S. Surgeon General’s advisory revealed can help reduce the risk of serious health conditions, people should consider ways to weave moments of kindness into their daily lives.

Here are a few simple ways to show kindness:

Hold the Door for Strangers

It may seem small, but holding the door for someone who is entering or exiting a building after you is a brief way to offer a helping hand and set off a contagious string of goodwill.

Send a Thoughtful Surprise

Sending someone a favorite treat, book or even a photo memory can provide a positive boost to not only the recipient but the sender as well. To take this gesture one step further, have a gift delivered to a person you don’t know but may be in need of a thoughtful gesture - such as a basket to a soldier overseas or senior citizens in local nursing homes or assisted living facilities.

Celebrate and Share Kindness Online

So much of the world is connected via social media. To build positive connections online, seek out digital spaces or services

that emphasize and inspire kindness, such as the Starbucks Kindness Mobile AR experience. By combining the real world with augmented reality, the experience invites people to explore and share acts of kindness through notes inspired by real stories of kindness, photos, videos and Kindness Cards that can be shared on social media or by text message.

Look for Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering time to local organizations, such as nursing homes, homeless shelters or food pantries, is an engaging and personal way to help those in your community.

Be Kind to Your Mind

By practicing gratitude, compassion and kindness toward yourself, you can spark moments of kindness that are more genuine and intentional with others. Meditation practice, such as the free, guided collection from Starbucks and Headspace, invites calm and kindness, opening the door to cultivate a more considerate relationship with mind, body and world.

“Experiencing kindness in the world begins with cultivating kindness toward ourselves,” said Dora Kamau, mindfulness and meditation teacher at Headspace. “This week, try being kind to your mind and notice how this has a ripple effect on others and the world around you.”

Offer Words of Encouragement and Gratitude

Whether it be via a text, note or conversation in-person, words are a direct way to show kindness and help individuals feel seen, appreciated and respected. Depending on what the situation requires, providing a compliment or saying, “thank you,” can make a significant impact on someone’s day.

For more ideas to share a little kindness, visit stories.starbucks.com.

Protect Your Home Lightning

(BPT) - According to The National Weather Service, about 25 million cloud-to-ground lightning strikes occur in the United States each year and can strike up to 25 miles away from its parent thunderstorm.

The best place to be when a thunderstorm hits is inside your home. But even indoors, lightning can cause damage, especially to your electrical appliances. However, with some preparation, you can reduce the risk of damage should lightning strike.

Mr. Electric®, a Neighborly® company - a leading electrical installation and repair franchise - has provided the following five ways to prepare your home for any storms that come your way.

Remember to unplug

During storms, stay alert! If you discover that a storm is coming, you’ll have time to prepare and unplug appliances and devices you won’t need during the storm. Because a lightning storm has the potential to strike the power grid and increase the voltage to your electrical devices, it’s best to take preventative measures and unplug them to protect them and yourself.

Invest in whole-home surge protectors

When a sudden increase in voltage occurs, surge protectors can safeguard your electrical devices by redirecting the excess voltage through the house’s grounding path. Prepare your home by investing in whole-house surge protectors to minimize damage to your sensitive electronics and valuable appliances from an electrical surge.

Note: Surge protectors are only effective if your house has proper wiring and grounding. If you aren’t sure your home is properly wired and grounded, contact your local Mr. Electric for a professional assessment. Also, keep in mind that if your home or nearby area is struck by lightning your surge protector is as good as its rated limit or capacity.

Familiarize yourself with the circuit breaker

Because electricity is dangerous, it’s important to familiarize yourself with your home’s circuit breakers. A circuit breaker is designed to “trip” or shut off when at a predetermined amperage load. If the limit is reached, the breaker trips and opens the circuit, preventing the flow of current to that particular electrical line or circuit.

Before the next storm hits, take time to learn what each circuit breaker is designed to shut off. If you’re experiencing constant trips, it could be an overloaded circuit, a short circuit or a ground fault, in which case you’ll need to call a professional for help.

Have backup power

It’s possible that a storm may knock out your power. If you lose power in your home, it’s a smart idea to have a backup generator to ensure essential appliances keep running while you’re sheltering in place.

You may think you can go without power for a while, but don’t take a chance. Depending on the storm’s severity, you could be left without power for hours or even days. Eliminate the stress of uncertainty by having a backup generator on hand.

Schedule an electrical safety inspection

Even minor electrical damage can lead to bigger issues. After a severe weather event, schedule a home electrical safety checkup, so a trusted professional can catch any unseen issues. Visit Mr.Electric.com/Electrical-Services to find and schedule an appointment with an electrical expert in your area.

While you may not have much warning before a storm arrives, you can take steps to ensure the safety of your family and home. Using these tips, you’ll be prepared for storm season and protect your home and family from unexpected lightning strikes.