Homes Magazine Oct-Nov 2017 by Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2017

Homes.NewsMiner.com

Growing trends in today’s homes 5 ways to make homes safer IABA Parade of Homes October 7 & 8 – See page 21 See interior photos of this lovely home listed exclusively by Ray Brasier of RE/MAX Associates of Fairbanks on page 2. homes.newsminer.com 1

on the cover

1192 Cartleb Road • $515,000 Located on highly desired Cartleb Road this home has the WOW factor! Imagine yourself waking up every morning with an unobstructed view of the Alaska Range. 1192 Cartleb Road is an extraordinarily spacious 4,600 Sq. Ft. 3 bedroom 3.5 bath home with a 980 Sq. Ft. 2 car garage. Its currently configured with a mother in law/ 1 bedroom executive penthouse, this penthouse is currently being rented on Air B&B and generates about $1,600 a month in income. The Master Suite is a true oasis with a marbled laid floor and back splash jetted tub, walk in closet, cathedral ceilings, and its own phenomenal view of the Alaska Range! The high end massive “chef envy” kitchen has granite counter tops, and a large peninsula making it perfect for large family gatherings or entertainment. Off the kitchen will lead you out onto the deck making it a great place to enjoy your sunrise with morning coffee or an evening of relaxation. This home has so much to offer, some of the other amenities are; 10 inch walls, radiant floor, immaculate landscaping, solid wood interior doors, and the list goes on! Great value for your money at $515,000, call for a private showing.

RAY BRASIER

RE/MAX Associates of Fairbanks 452-6387

HomesForSaleFairbanksAK.com raybrasier@hotmail.com

Hundreds of Listings Open Houses • Loan Calculators Industry Information • Featured REALTORS® Homes.NewsMiner.com 2 homes.newsminer.com

contents

October-November 2017

Products

Florcraft Carpet One Floor & Home

The Pampered Chef; Robyn Neilko

Featured

Services

Alaska Petroleum

AlaskaUSA Mortgage Company

Country Financial/Laura Brugger

Duszynski & Associates/Inspection & Energy Rating

5 ways to make homes safer 5 ways to get acquainted with a new neighborhood

IABA (Interior Alaska Building Association). LaBrenz Landscaping Mongold Insurance Agency

Mt. McKinley Bank

Nessbuilt Remodelers

Sourdough Transfer

Sway Array

10 14 18

Real Estate

Agent Directory

Alaska Life Realty; Rich Harter

Chris Calhoon Real Estate

Coldwell Banker: Melissa Richardson

Crown Real Estate Inc.; Ginger Orem

Fortune Properties; Janet Shafer

Fox Realty

Grace Minder Realty, Inc.

Moose Creek Apartments

RE/MAX Associates of Fairbanks; Ray Brasier

RE/MAX Associates of Fairbanks; Gene Duval

Somers & Associates, REALTORS ® Inc

Somers & Associates; Lana Hebert

Somers & Associates; Angie Tallant

Somers & Associates; Property Management

Stepovich Realty/Stage & Design Fairbanks

Aging pets

Halloween pumpkin carving pointers

Organize your Thanksgiving holiday

16 Easy ways to celebrate Veterans Day

20 Saturday, October 7th 10am-5pm Sunday, October 8th 11am-5pm

e Postcard Stamp a Parad s for a at the Home Win a Fuel Chance to Up to $300! Giveaway

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Agent directory

8 Amazing Homes! Free Admission! Giveaways & More! Pick Up Our Beautiful Parade Magazine from a Platinum or Gold Sponsor! Visit Coffee Stands Around Town the Week Before the Parade for a Chance to Win $100 to your Favorite Coffee Shop!

Homes.NewsMiner.com

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22 23 Install the “IABA Parad e of Homes” App for an interactive map, and special reviews, features (iPhone/An droid)

Prep work makes weeknight dinners easier

To advertise, call Janessa Vinson at (907) 459-7547 jvinson@newsminer.com

8 12 & 13

Golden Valley Electric Association

Growing trends in today’s homes

PLATINUM & GOLD SPONSORS: Denali State Bank, Florcraft Carpet One, Golden Heart Roofing, MacCheyne’s Carpets Plus, Mt. McKinley Bank, Spirit of Alaska Federal Credit Union, Somers & Associates, Sourdough Fuel, Spenard Builders Supply, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Yukon Title Company SILVER SPONSORS: Architecture & Allied Arts, Alaska Quality Insulators, Empire Realty, First National Bank, Gene Duval Real Estate, Inc., Griffard Steel, Hoffer Glass, Kitchens & Baths by Design, Labrenz Landscaping, Madden Real Estate, Sani-Can, University Redi-Mix, Ventilation Solutions, Vertex Insulation, Inc.

Saturday, Octo Sunday, Octob

Homes is published and distributed free by the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner Advertising Department

homes.newsminer.com 3

107 KANTISHNA WAY - $252,900 CHSR. – $79,900

40 acres, GU zoned, Off Grange Hall

Janet Shafer

PROPERTIES

Owner/Broker

Fortune@polarnet.com

388-1400

Land for Sale

Associate Broker

452-4363

gene@geneduval.com Associates of Fairbanks

2806 #3 WILSON STREET

$109,000 2 bd, 2 ba, 1 car garage. Pets on approval. Close to schools, hospital, and shopping.

• Greer Sd., by Nordale Rd and Peede, 6 lots from $14,500. • Lucille Ave., near Brock, 5 lots from $18,000. • Beaver Pond Sd., 19 mile CHSR, 7 lots from $18,000. • 1850 Cirrus Court, N. Pole 2.77 acres, $23,900. • Roland Acres Sd., by Chena Pump and Roland, 14 lots from $25,000. • Anders Sd., 22.5 mile CHSR, 9 lots from $28,500. • Polkadot Drive, near Goldmine Trail, 6 lots from $33,500. • Near Ridgepoint on Chena Ridge, 1 lot 1.84 acres $ 32,000. • Clarkson Drive, by Chena Pump, 3 lots from $29,500. • Hopper Creek Sd., 5.6 mile CHSR, 2 lots from $75,000. • Illinois St., by Denali Bank, .49 acres, $75,000. • Metro Industrial, off Van Horn Rd., 4 lots from $ 75,000. • City Lights Blvd, by Birch Hill, 4 lots from $96,000. • Joliet Drive, by Auburn, 1.8 acres, $105,000. • Sky Summit Sd., by Summit Dr., 2 lots from $99,500. • Deere St., near Aurora Dr., 1.7 acres, $118,500. • Chena Pump & Nebula, 2.28 acres, $225,000. • North Pole Plaza, 5 lots from $302,000.

F57522550

Gene DuVal

4 homes.newsminer.com

CHSR. – $72,500

23.16 acres, Road Frontage, RA-5 zoning.

In town delight. 3 bed 2 bath with major remodel. 9 inch walls. 800 sq. ft shop/ grg. Gorgeous corner double lot. Excellent location. Close to schools. Just offered.

F57522552

CHATANIKA LODGE – $775,000

Own a piece of History. Ten rooms, guest lounge, restaurant and cocktail lounge. Owners unit plus 2 rentals and 2080 Sq. ft grg. Gorgeous setting on over 11 acres. Northern Lights Viewing in the winter. Activities all through the summer. Offered at $775,000. Owner Terms.

home trends

Growing trends in today’s homes

Houses are shrinking, selling faster and getting smarter upgrades according to industry statistics.

Although the heydays of the real estate boom of the early 2000s have not quite returned, things look positive. In the United Resales also have been more promising. The National Association of Realtors® says the median number of days a home was on the market in April 2017 reached a new low of 29 days. However, low supply levels did stanch existing home sales somewhat. By mid-2017, the market was a seller’s market, with more people in the market for homes than properties available. But sales during that time were still outpacing sales figures from a year prior. In fact, in May 2017, home sales in Canada increased to their highest level in more than five years, according to the Canadian MLS® Systems. Low interest rates on mortgages and more confidence in the economy has driven many people to make improvements to their existing homes. As is typical, the things homeowners are looking for in 2017 have evolved from years past. The following are some trends that are helping to steer the real estate market further.

States, 1,226,000 new homes were built in 2016, according to data from Consumer Reports. That was the most since 2007.

SMALLER HOMES: Home sizes in

the United States steadily increased for decades, eventually leading to an average of 2,453 square feet in 2014, according to U.S. Census figures. However, Realtor.com reported in 2015 that new construction homes have already begun to shrink by 40 square feet. There seems to be a slight trend toward more modest homes as people consider affordability and maintenance on larger properties. The National Association of Home Builders states buyers are now looking for smaller, more livable homes with flexible floor plans, energy-efficient appliances and plenty of storage space.

MATTE FINISHES: Stainless steel

finishes on faucets, appliances and even in countertops. These less flashy finishes are prized for their warmth and elegance. While some high-end models with matte finishes have been available for several years, even less expensive models are now available.

SMARTER TECHNOLOGY: Many

homeowners are embracing smart technology throughout their homes, but it’s not just lights that turn on with voice command or more efficient thermostats. Innovative technology includes toilets that can autonomously stay clean and sanitized, refrigerators equipped with cameras so homeowners can see the contents inside and indoor food recyclers that can turn food waste into fertilizer.

and luster have been popular for years. However, the next big thing is matte

Staying abreast of the ever-changing trends in home improvement and real estate can help consumers make the best choices with regard to buying and building their homes. homes.newsminer.com 5

home safety

5 ways

to make homes safer Injuries that occur around the home contribute to millions of medical visits and tens of thousands of fatalities each year. Falls account for the largest percentage of home accidents, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that around 30,000 fall-related fatalities occur each year in the United States. Many home accidents are entirely preventable when proper caution is exercised. As homeowners prepare for home-improvement projects, improving safety inside and outside the home should be a priority. Stairs should be free of clutter and have sturdy railings.

IMPROVE LIGHTING

bathroom. Also, nonslip mats can be used inside of showers and bathtubs. One of the easiest ways to reduce Use shoe trays to reduce puddling the risk of falls is to improve lighting around the home. The National Institutes from melting snow or rain runoff in entryways. Mop up spills quickly, and of Health state that adequate lighting consider the use of matte- or texturedis important at entrances to the home, stairways, hallways, and other frequently finished flooring to improve stability underfoot. traversed areas. Make sure lighting Promptly remove snow and ice from fixtures are using the highest wattage driveways and walkways. For those who light bulb allowed. Artificial lighting live in cold climates, heated concrete sources become even more vital in fall can help melt precipitation before it and autumn, when natural light is less abundant in a home. In addition, install accumulates. lighting outdoors by the front door, over the garage and where garbage pails are MAKE NEEDED REPAIRS stored to facilitate safe passage. Repair loose floorboards and pull carpet taut if it has started to stretch out. ELIMINATE SLICK SURFACES Address cracks outdoors and ensure Improving traction around the house that patio stones, bricks and pavers also can minimize falls. Throw rugs and are secure and level to reduce tripping hazards. Fix areas of the landscape runners can be made more secure with where water may pool and freeze, nonslip rubber backings. Bath rugs can creating potential hazards. reduce slipping on wet surfaces in the

6 homes.newsminer.com

DECLUTTER ALL SPACES

Remove unnecessary items and furniture from rooms to free up more space to get around. Be sure there are no obstructions in walkways, entryways and near doors. Keep staircases clear at all times.

INVEST IN ASSISTIVE DEVICES

Handrails, grab bars, nonslip stair treads, and many other devices can make homes safer for people of all ages and abilities. Outfit cabinets and closets with organizers that put frequently used items within easy reach. A sturdy step stool can reduce the risk of injury while reaching for items stored on high shelves. Taking measures to reduce the risk of falling around the home is a worthwhile home improvement project.

Complete Landscaping & Lawn Service! COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

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REALTOR ®

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DESIGN SERVICES

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CERAMIC

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CABINETS

CARPET

AREA RUGS

WINDOW COVERINGS

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homes.newsminer.com 7

new neighborhood

5 ways

to get acquainted with a new neighborhood Across the country, people are packing boxes, hiring trucks and moving short and long distances. The U.S. Census Bureau says that around 12 percent of the population moves each year. According to a survey by DuProprio, a Quebec-based real estate advice site, 28 percent of Canadians feel the need to move every five years. Surprisingly, DuProprio also found that 14 percent of owners wish they could move every year. The main reasons people move are expansion of the family, a career change, retirement, empty nest situations, or when

HOST A HOUSEWARMING PARTY. Get to know

immediate neighbors by hosting a party. After some unpacking is done, host a simple get-together for people who live nearby. Ask if neighbors can help out by bringing chairs. Offer light

refreshments and some type of activities for children. The event doesn’t have to be extensive, just long enough to engage in some conversation and introduce yourself.

WALK AND DRIVE AROUND. Scout out

the area by driving around and making note of shopping

moving is more practical than large-scale home renovations. While some people stick close to previous home locations, a 2015 American Community Survey found approximately 16.9 million people moved to a different county in 2015. Whether a move is across county lines or overseas, it can take some time to acclimate to a new neighborhood. These tips can help anyone get acquainted with their new surroundings and make friends in the process. centers, parks and places of interest. Schedule times when you will get out of the car and walk around on foot, which makes it easier to take everything in. Use a website like Walkscore.com to find places within walking distance of your new home. Bring the dog along. Dogs can be great ice breakers with new neighbors.

CHECK OUT COMMUNITY BLOTTERS. Community

events may be posted in print and distributed through a local newspaper and also on municipal websites. Find out where the locals go on weekends or during the week. Communities may take pride in certain activities. It’s easier to get a feel for the 8 homes.newsminer.com

neighborhood by spending time with the locals.

BECOME ACTIVE IN THE COMMUNITY.

Find a volunteer organization or join a local house of worship. Check with the local chamber of commerce for ways to get involved or clubs to join. Like-minded people can make living in a new locale more enjoyable.

DINE OUT ONCE A WEEK. If budget allows,

try a new neighborhood eating establishment each week to get a lay of the land. You’ll identify hot spots and hidden gems and will also be able to mingle with the community. An app such as Open Table can help you find places to eat nearby.

ROCK SOLID SINCE 1965

- NEW HOME PURCHASE - RENOVATION - NEW CONSTRUCTION

Let us help you build a path to your front door. 6 F17522542

Apply online at www.mtmckinleybank.com

2016 Affiliates Realtor of the Year For Real Estate Advice Contact:

Ginger Orem, Broker/Owner CRS, ABR

(907) 452-8000 Ginger@AskForGinger.com

Crown Real Estate AK, Inc.

Live on Chena River!

Beautiful Condo in Riverside West! 3 bdrms, 2 baths, Fireplace & Gar! Sunroom overlooks Chena River!

Only $219,900!

Ranch with Full Basement!

Pearl Creek School District! 2 bdrms, Office, 2.5 Baths & Garage! Build equity by finishing Basement! Only $239,900!

I ND

Amazing Home PLUS Shop!

3bdrm, 2.5 bath, Fam.Rm, Jetted tub, Garage, Bonus Hobby/Craft Room w/ Bathroom above Shop! Only $349,900!

Double Wall Construction on Airstrip! Beautiful tile bathrooms, Granite in Kitchen! 4bdrm, 3bths, Vaulted T&G Ceiling, 2 Ensuites, Fam.Rm w/ Pellet Stve & More!

Cabin on 6 Acres!

Stunning 5 Bedroom!

Affordable living on 6 Acres! 1bdrm, 1 bath, Monitor, Woodstove, borders state land & trails!

Beautiful 5bdrm, 2.5 bth, 3 Car Gar on 1.85 Acres! Private End of Cul-de-sac!

Only $169,900!

Only $384,900!

Only $334,900!

Goldstream Living on 1.44 Acres! Lots of Natural light, Vaulted Ceiling, Loft Bedroom, Bathroom & Garage! Only $159,900!

I ND

Log Cabin Northeast Fairbanks! Alaska living w/ Paved Access! 3bdrm, 1 bth, Family Room, Woodstove & Boiler!

Only $189,900!

Chena Ridge Home on 4 Acres! Spacious 3660 Sq.Ft., Large Family Rm, Huge Master Suite, Oversized Garage!

Only $349,900!

Beautiful Ranch in College Hills! Near UAF, Kitchen remodel Corian counter-tops! 3 bdrms, 1 bath, Garage & Unfinished Basement! Only $249,900!

Build Instant Equity!

New Boiler & Hot water Heater! Lots of new Electrical! Vinyl Siding, 1 bdrm/1bath, Garage and Bonus Rooms! Only $149,900

F57522551

Near Fort Wainwright!

Excellent 2 bdrm, 1 bath Vaulted Ceiling, low heating bills, Near Birch Hill ski area! Only $147,900!

Visit www.AskForGinger.com to view all CROWN & MLS Listings! homes.newsminer.com 9

THE BENEFITS OF LOCAL NEWSPAPERS Local newspapers play vital roles in communities across the globe. The Information Age has changed the way many people get their news, but local newspapers continue to serve as valuable resources for readers interested in learning more about and becoming more involved in their communities. While local publishers continue to adapt to the changes brought about by technology, the following are a handful of benefits unique to local newspapers.

• LOCAL NEWSPAPERS KEEP READERS UP-TO-DATE ON THEIR OWN COMMUNITIES.

Globalization may be here to stay, but that does not mean local communities are no longer home to newsworthy events. National and international newspapers and 24-hour cable news channels can

pri e-ed nt it onli ion ne APP

10 homes.newsminer.com

keep men and women up-to-date on national and world news, but in many instances, local newspapers are the only means people have to learn about what’s going on in their own communities. Local politics impact residents’ lives every day, and local newspapers cover local politics extensively.

• LOCAL NEWSPAPERS BENEFIT NEARBY BUSINESSES. Small business owners often connect with community members via local newspapers. A strong, locally based small business community can improve economies in myriad ways, creating jobs in the community and contributing tax dollars that can be used to strengthen local schools and infrastructure. And local newspapers do their part by providing affordable and effective advertising space to local

To subscribe, call 907-456-6661 or go to newsminer.com

business owners looking to connect with their communities.

• LOCAL NEWSPAPERS CAN STRENGTHEN COMMUNITIES.

Local newspapers are great resources for residents who want to become more active in their communities and learn more about community events. Local newspapers often showcase community events like carnivals, local theater productions and projects like park cleanups. These are great ways for readers to become more active in their communities and build stronger communities as a result.

• LOCAL NEWSPAPERS CAN BENEFIT CHILDREN.

National newspapers may have little age-appropriate content to offer young children, but local newspapers tend to include more soft news items than national periodicals, and such stories typically are appropriate for young readers. According to Newspapers in Education, students who participated in an NIE group in Florida performed significantly better in spelling and vocabulary than nonreaders. Additional studies have indicated that students who use newspapers in the classroom perform better on standardized reading tests than those who do not use newspapers in class. Many local newspapers have played vital roles in their communities for decades, providing a go-to resource for local readers and business owners.

DUSZYNSKI & ASSOCIATES

Home is where the heart is. Not to mention all your stuff.

Providing complete home inspection & energy rating services in Fairbanks and surrounding areas for over 35 years

Real estate is the largest investment you will ever make. Make an informed decision by relying on certified professional Terry Duszynski. • International Code Council Certified Residential Combination Inspector • Alaska State Registered Home Inspector #23 • AHFC Certified Energy Rater #26 • RESNET Certified Energy Rater #26 • Building Performance Institute Certified Building Analyst • BPI Certified Healthy Home Evaluator • FHA and VA Certified

Let us help you get the protection you need. We know home insurance. We can help you protect your home and everything in it. Call us today to discuss your coverage options.

The most trusted name in home inspection and energy consulting in Interior Alaska.

We look forward to hearing from you! Mongold Insurance Agency 907-452-4260

DISCOUN

202812

Terry Duszynski tduszy907@gmail.com | duszynskiandassociates.com Phone: (907) 479-3324 | Fax: (907) 479-9319

F57519085

Rich Harter Broker/Owner Alaska Life Realty (907) 322-5888 Cell (907) 385-3004 Office richharter@outlook.com

It’s not just your house, it’s your home It’s more than walls and floors. It’s a place to enjoy and share with the people you love. Over the years you’ve filled your home with memories. Protect what you’ve worked so hard for with home insurance from COUNTRY Financial®.

AKLifeRealty.com

Laura Brugger

1297 Wideview Dr Fairbanks $329,900

4 bedroom 2.5 bath 2162 sq/ft

laura.brugger@countryfinancial.com

Wonderful home in the hills of Fairbanks.

907-458-7474

3732 Arapaho Dr North Pole $314,900

3 bedroom 2 bath 1995 sq/ft log home with large Garage/Shop.

Are you ready to start your journey? Lets get moving.

Auto, home and business insurance policies inssued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, COUNTRY Preferred Insurance and COUNTRY Casuality Company® Insurance Company®. Life insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®. Fixed annuities issued by COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®. All issuing companies located in Bloomington, IL.

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4001 Geist Road, Suite 15 ı Fairbanks, AK

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homes.newsminer.com 11

aging pets

Changes

to expect as cats age

• Appearance of brown spots in the iris • Decreased sense of smell • Brittle nails • Decreased lung reserve • Heart or circulatory problems • Decreased ability tao digest foods and absorb nutrients • Loose skin • Reduced ability to handle stress • Changes in behavior • Changes in mobility More information about caring for aging cats is available at www.catvets.com.

Alaska Petroleum

12 homes.newsminer.com

The AAFP recommends that healthy older cats be examined by their veterinarians every six months. While that may seem frequent, six months for older cats is roughly equivalent to two years for human beings, and that’s plenty of time for cats’ health to change dramatically. In between vet visits, cat owners can look for the following changes that cats often undergo as they age, calling their cats’ vets immediately if any of these signs appear to be having any adverse effects on the cat. • Altered sleep-wake cycle • Changes in vision

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Dogs are widely referred to as “man’s best friend,” and few dog owners can imagine life without their beloved pups. But Fido’s feline counterparts are incredibly popular as well. According to estimates from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, somewhere between 74 million and 96 million cats are owned in the United States, putting cats on par with dogs (the ASPCA estimates Americans own between 70 million and 80 million dogs). Cats are also quite popular in Canada. The 2014 market research report titled “Canadian Pet Market Outlook,” which examined pet ownership and pet trends throughout Canada, reported that there are 7.9 million cats in The Great White North, which is also home to 5.9 million dogs. Many prospective pet owners feel that caring for cats must be easier than caring for dogs. Cats do not need daily walks to stay happy and healthy, and many cats do not crave attention as much as their canine counterparts. But caring for cats is not always so simple, especially as cats grow older. The American Association of Feline Practitioners notes that some cats age faster than others. But older cats are often classified into three groups: • Mature or middle-aged: 7 to 10 years (44 to 56 years for humans) • Senior: 11 to 14 years (60 to 72 years for humans) • Geriatric: 15-plus years (76-plus years for humans) Though this might surprise some people, the AAFP notes that many cats can live well into their geriatric years, some even reaching their early twenties. Owners of geriatric cats may need to be extra diligent when caring for their felines, as cats often experience significant changes in their health and behavior as they age. It’s important for cat owners to take their cats for routine veterinary checkups regardless of their cats’ ages, but such appointments are especially necessary for aging cats. Because cats tend to require less attention than dogs, it can be harder for cat owners to notice changes in health or behavior in aging cats than they might notice with aging dogs. Routine vet visits can ensure that agerelated health conditions don’t go undiagnosed, and such visits may even help to delay the onset of certain problems.

Call today! (907) 488-2575

How to

care for aging dogs Dogs and cats may not live as long as their human companions, but they age just like other living creatures. Cats’ and dogs’ rate of growth and maturity is accelerated compared to human beings’, and pet owners should know it’s never too soon to make plans for keeping pets comfortable as they grow older. Pet owners may find signs of aging more noticeable in dogs than cats, as cats tend to be less active in the daytime than dogs. Canines that were once rambunctious and energetic can sometimes lose their zeal as the years tick by. Knowing what to expect of aging dogs can help owners prepare for the years ahead. NUTRITION Aging dogs need vitamins, minerals, fats, and fuel. The right pet diet can help dogs remain active and playful as long as possible. Take the time to speak with your dog’s veterinarian about brands or food formulations that may help your dog live with certain conditions. Vets may

711 Gaffney Rd. #100 Fairbanks, AK 99701

VETERINARY CARE Geriatric dogs may require more frequent veterinary visits than younger animals so any potential health conditions can be discovered before they escalate. Expect senior pet exams, which may include bloodwork, to be more indepth, says the American Veterinary Medical Foundation. Discuss any mental and behavioral issues your dog has exhibited with the vet, as dogs can show signs of senility as they get older. The AVMA says studies conducted in the early 1990s were the first to identify brain changes in older dogs that were similar to brain changes seen in humans with Alzheimer’s disease. The doctor may recommend tasks to keep dogs engaged and more cognizant. ARTHRITIS Aging dogs may suffer the aches and pains associated with arthritis. Large dog breeds are especially vulnerable to joint diseases. Take note if your pet seems to be walking stiffly or having difficulty sitting down. Increased irritability may also be a sign your pet is in pain. The vet may suggest nutritional supplementation with glucosamine and chondroitin as well

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as pain relief medication to help. An orthopedic bed, frequent rub downs of stiff joints and cozy spots to stretch out can help, too. DENTAL CLEANINGS Dental care is important throughout a pet’s life, but even more so as he or she ages. Tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis, which can cause bacteria to get into the dog’s bloodstream, potentially leading to internal illness. Brushing your dog’s teeth and providing teeth-cleaning chews and toys can help. You also may need to schedule thorough teeth cleanings at the vet’s office. Pets’ needs change as they get older. Dog owners should keep watchful eyes on their aging pooches to ensure man’s best friend stays happy through his or her golden years.

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aging pets

suggest foods that are easily digestible or that include essential fatty acids for cognition and a healthy coat. Foods may need to be low in calories to help prevent weight gain from reduced activity.

homes.newsminer.com 13

all hallows eve

Halloween pumpkin-carving pointers

Transforming pumpkins into cleverly carved creations is a Halloween tradition. Each October, glowing pumpkins take up residence near doorsteps and porches, adding to the magical ambiance of the season. Young and old spend time designing their themes and then taking knife to pumpkin to achieve the desired effects. Carving pumpkins into jack-o’lanterns can be traced back centuries to Ireland and a story about “Stingy Jack.” The tale involves Jack outwitting the Devil twice, the second time freeing the Devil from a prank in exchange for the promise that he would not claim Jack’s soul should Jack die. When Jack did die, God did not want the unsavory character in heaven, but the Devil could not claim Jack for hell. Therefore, Jack was relegated to roam the planet indefinitely with only a burning coal to light his way. Jack put that coal into a carved-out turnip. His ghostly figure was referred to as “Jack of the Lantern.” Later on it was shortened to “Jack O’Lantern.” When Irish immigrants arrived in North America, turnips weren’t plentiful, so jack-o’-lanterns were instead carved into pumpkins. Today, many people carve jacko’-lanterns, with some featuring just smiling or grimacing faces while others are far more artistic creations. These tips can help anyone carve a pumpkin.

• BEGIN WITH A FRESH PUMPKIN. Look for a pumpkin with

a green stem. If the pumpkin has been sitting around for too long or has been 14 homes.newsminer.com

handled too much, the stem can get brittle and/or fall off. A thick, fresh pumpkin is best for carving.

Air leaks around doorways can waste energy and cost homeowners substantial amounts of money.

• PLAN YOUR IDEAS. Draw a plan for your pumpkin

before you make your first cut. Then transfer that design to the pumpkin with pen or a thin marker. Pumpkin-carving kits come with designs that can be “traced” by poking small holes to create the outline of the design.

• DON’T CUT ALL THE WAY THROUGH. Many professional

before Halloween to begin carving. Pumpkins are a perishable item, and they’ll begin to rot as soon as you begin carving. Spritzing them with water can help them stay fresh, but there’s no turning back the clock once the first cut is made.

• CUT A HOLE IN THE BACK.

According to Brooklyn-based Maniac pumpkin artists do not actually cut clear Pumpkin Carvers, cutting off the top through the flesh of the pumpkin. They of the pumpkin can affect its structural integrity and cause it to rot faster. carve and shave off layers of the outer Instead, cut a hole in the back of the rind until it becomes more translucent. pumpkin and use an electric light to The level of transparency can be illuminate it. LEDs are adviseable adjusted based on how much skin is removed and as a way to add texture and because they don’t generate much heat, shadowing. The more air that is allowed which can cook and rot the pumpkin from the inside out. to penetrate the pumpkin, the faster it With some creativity and a little knowwill start to degrade. how, anyone can create an eye-catching • DELAY CARVING UNTIL THE jack-o’-lantern. LAST MINUTE. Wait until the day

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Veterans day

Easy ways to celebrate Veterans Day

Veterans Day is an annual holiday when veterans of the armed forces are honored and celebrated in the United States. Many people confuse Veterans Day with Memorial Day. While both days honor members of the armed forces, there’s a distinction between the two holidays. Memorial Day, which is celebrated in May, is a day designated for remembering servicemen and servicewomen who died while serving. Veterans Day, which is observed in November, honors all military veterans. The role of the brave men and women who serve in the military is an important one, and it’s one that warrants appreciation and celebration. The following are a few easy ways to celebrate veterans and their significant contribution to our country this Veterans Day.

• OFFER YOUR THANKS.

Serving in the military can feel like a thankless job, as those who have not served might not be aware of the risks men

and women in the military take and the sacrifices they must make to protect our country and help the less fortunate across the globe. As a result, something as simple as saying “Thank you” to a current service member or military veteran can go a long way. Veterans know they don’t serve in vain, but it’s still a great idea to let them know how much you appreciate their efforts and sacrifices.

• HELP FAMILIES OF ACTIVE MILITARY.

Many service members are currently stationed and serving overseas, and their families back home may need or just appreciate a helping hand. Invite family members of active military over for dinner, offer to do chores like cutting the grass or shoveling the driveway when it snows or help around the house if something needs fixing. Even if families of active members serving overseas appear to be getting along great, offer your friendship and let them know you’re there to help should anything arise.

• VISIT HOSPITALIZED VETERANS. Unfortunately, many veterans are hospitalized after suffering an injury during a tour of duty. These veterans 16 homes.newsminer.com

sacrificed their physical well-being to protect our way of life, and many spend extended periods of time in the hospital. Visiting a hospital to get to know a veteran and spend some time with him or her, sharing a few laughs and thanking them for their service, is a great way to celebrate the holiday and lift a veteran’s spirits at the same time. Recruit friends and family members to visit hospitalized veterans as well.

• PAY FOR A VETERAN’S NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN.

Like many people, veterans appreciate an escape from the daily grind. Men and women who want to show their appreciation to veterans can treat a veteran to a night out on the town. Have extra tickets to a ballgame or play? Donate them to a local VFW. Or if you see a veteran out on the town, offer to pay for his meal.

• THANK BUSINESSES WHO SUPPORT VETERANS.

Many businesses show their gratitude to veterans by offering them free services on Veterans Day. When a local business shows its appreciation to veterans, patronize that business and let them know you appreciate their efforts to help.

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homes.newsminer.com 19

thanksgiving

Organize

your Thanksgiving holiday A large meal is customary come Thanksgiving. Planning an impressive Thanksgiving menu can be enjoyable for many people, while others get a little nervous when tasked with such an undertaking. But getting a head start and staying organized can make planning a Thanksgiving meal much easier than it looks. Begin by jotting down ideas of which dishes you want to make this year. Traditional foods like turkey and candied yams may be expected, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfectly acceptable to think outside the box as well. If you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be hosting a large crowd, you may want to serve more manageable Cornish hens in place of a larger turkey. Root vegetables and squash are seasonal foods that can add some autumn flavor to your Thanksgiving dinner table. Potatoes, corn, turnips and parsnips can be served baked or turned into soups and casseroles. Thanksgiving is a great time to celebrate local foods as well. If certain items are native to your area, such as grains or game, incorporate these foods into the planning. Once you have established the menu, you can make a list of what can be prepared in advance and what will need to be made shortly before the holiday or the day of. Separate your shopping accordingly. Any frozen or canned products can be purchased in advance of the holiday rush and stored until use. Frozen turkeys also can be bought weeks before and then thawed out when they need to be cooked. Any dairy products or fresh produce should be purchased a few days before finishing them on Thanksgiving. Any work you can handle in 20 homes.newsminer.com

advance will save you time in the kitchen come the big day. Timing can be challenging on Thanksgiving. Whenever possible, free up your oven for side dishes and desserts so that you will have ample space inside. A turkey can take up valuable real estate in the oven, so you may want to consider investing in a rotisserie or a deep-fryer so the turkey can be cooked more efficiently elsewhere. Then you will have plenty of oven space for heating side dishes and desserts. Dense foods should be placed in the oven first to enable them to heat thoroughly. Finger foods and appetizers may only need brief heating. Do not underestimate the power of the outdoor barbecue for quickly heating up foods if you are short on space in the kitchen. Delegate some of the work to others on Thanksgiving so you and your family can better enjoy the holiday. Encourage guests to bring their favorite items to serve buffet- or pot-luck style for Thanksgiving. This not only cuts down on the amount of work for the host and hostess, but gives guests an opportunity to showcase their culinary skills as well.

Desserts are often labor-intensive elements of entertaining. Precision in measuring and preparing helps guarantee success. If you do not have the time to bake this Thanksgiving, serve store-bought cakes and save yourself the hassle, or ask guests to bring desserts so you can focus your attention on the main meal. While prepping for the Thanksgiving dinner, keep the dishwasher empty so you can easily load items as they are used and keep kitchen clutter to a minimum. Increasing the number of finger foods can help reduce the number of dishes used while cutting down on post-holiday clean-up. When preparing for the meal, keep storage containers at the ready. Have guests fill up take-away containers with leftovers before the table is cleared so that no food goes to waste. Promptly refrigerate all leftovers so that they are safe to enjoy later on. Thanksgiving is a time when big meals are customary and a good deal of work is required. Breaking down the work into manageable tasks helps the holiday go off without a hitch.

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saving time in the kitchen

Prep Work

makes weeknight dinners easier There is often no denying how busy the Taking some time to prep for weeknight meals means you can enjoy week can be for the average individual delicious foods at home without spending too much time in the kitchen. or family. Very frequently people eschew cooking dinner simply because they find the process takes too much time out of their already hectic days. Some people look to fast food or dining instead, but this can be costly and potentially unhealthy. Though home cooking can be time-consuming, planning ahead for weeknight meals can drastically reduce the time it takes to whip up a good meal. While it may seem like people are spending more time eating out, statistics point to the contrary. In a 2009 survey sponsored by CBS News, 43 percent of American respondents said they cook 6 to 7 nights out of the week, and 32 percent of the respondents said they cook 4 to 5 nights out of the week. Individuals who are still dining out or ordering in instead of cooking may benefit from the following time-saving tips.

• MAKE A MEAL SCHEDULE.

Take a cue from schools and office cafeterias and create a weekly or monthly meal calendar. Come up with items you enjoy eating and combine them for meals. Use cooking magazines

22 homes.newsminer.com

for inspiration if necessary. Having a schedule of what you will be cooking enables you to shop for the ingredients in advance and to know exactly what you’ll be serving each night -- two time savers.

• INVEST IN A SLOW COOKER.

If you prefer a hot meal right after walking in the door, a slow cooker can be an invaluable tool that delivers meals-on-demand. A slow cooker works by cooking ingredients at a very low temperature over a long period of • CREATE A DETAILED time. Ingredients can be added in the SHOPPING LIST. morning before you leave for work, and Use the meal calendar to make a list of the meal will be ready and hot by the the ingredients you will need for each meal. Some ingredients will overlap (i.e. time you return home. There are dozens of different slow cooker recipes and fresh spices, like garlic and parsley), cookbooks completely devoted to meals but there may be some ingredients unique to a particular recipe. Buying all made in a slow cooker. It is a versatile tool and one that can be an asset in a of the ingredients in advance enables busy person’s kitchen. you to have them on hand when it’s time to cook, instead of running out for • THINK OUTSIDE THE MEAL something that is missing. BOX. Dinner doesn’t necessarily have • DO PREPARATION WORK ON to consist of “dinner” foods. Turn THE WEEKEND. pancakes, eggs and sandwiches into Spend a few hours prepping food over heartier meals with the addition of a few the weekend for the upcoming week. ingredients. Omelets can be enhanced If vegetables need to be diced, do so with cubed meats and vegetables. Top then and store them in zip-top plastic pancakes with fresh fruit and granola bags. Meats that take a long time to for a more substantial meal. Paninis are cook can be pre-cooked and simply popular these days, so take an ordinary reheated before being served. Certain sandwich and make it gourmet just by meals, like casseroles and baked pasta pressing it and heating. dishes, can be made entirely and stored Taking the time to plan ahead for in the freezer. Having some of the meals means that weeknight dinners can work already done may help to make be less stressful to put together. weeknight meals easier to cook.

Find Your Agent Find Your Home AGENT BARBARA BOTTOMS

CHRIS CALHOON

GENE DUVAL

Chris Calhoon Real Estate 456-3401

RE/MAX Associates of Fairbanks 452-4363

LANA HEBERT

RICH KELLEY

GRACE MINDER

LanaHebert.com akrealtorlhebert@gci.net

www.richkelleyrealty.com rich@richkelleyrealty.com

www.graceminder.com graceminder@yahoo.com

GINGER OREM

TRACI SCHACHLE

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Alaska Life Realty

219 E. 5th Avenue North Pole, AK 99705

(907) 460-0759

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Somers & Associates REALTORS® Inc. (907) 590-3330

GRACE MOORE Fairbanks First Realty 590-0306

Fairbanks-NorthPolehomes.com gracemoore@alaska.net

JANET SHAFER Fortune Properties 388-1400

Fortune@polarnet.com

BRUCE WAMMACK Interior Alaska Realty 322-2177

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