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Gracious Moves    LLC

Senior Transition Specialists

Brooke's Blog

Misdiagnosed with Alzheimer's

Posted on December 21, 2013 at 11:51 AM Comments comments (7)
As Published in the Savannah Morning News - 30 September 2013
Is Your Parent in Memory Care Because of a Misdiagnosis?
A misdiagnosis that causes a family to sell their parent’s home and move them to a memory care facility is serious business.  Beware – things are not always what they seem.
Have you been kept awake by someone snoring loudly, holding their breath, and then gasping for air?   I experienced this with a family member, and I counted the seconds between breaths…40 or 50 seconds long!  It scared me, but I did not realize the significance of this until, years later, other symptoms arose.
Recently, this person was periodically exhibiting signs of dementia, and the doctor told me it was Alzheimer’s.  However, I witnessed a cyclical pattern, or “episodes”.  I explained how everything was completely normal, and then suddenly, the person did not recognize me.  Fearing a stroke, emergency rooms visits followed these episodes.  Subsequently, tests results revealed critically low blood-oxygen levels.  My relative was referred to a sleep clinic and the doctor’s suspicion was confirmed:  Sleep Apnea!
Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts.  It causes oxygen deprivation to the brain and the side effects can mimic dementia.
If you know someone who is experiencing irritability and impaired mental or emotional functioning, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches or snoring, consult your doctor.  When left untreated, sleep apnea can cause other life threatening issues, such as high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, weight gain, adult asthma, acid reflux, and car accidents.
Tips from Mayo Clinic:  Lose weight; exercise daily; avoid alcohol, tranquilizers and sleeping pills; stop smoking; sleep on your side or abdomen rather than on your back.Keep your nasal passages open at night. A saline nasal spray can help; nasal decongestants or antihistamines are generally recommended for short-term use.
Effective treatment for sleep apnea is available. Most importantly, if you think you may have sleep apnea, do something about it before your physical or mental health is compromised.

Assisted Living vs. Staying at Home

Posted on December 21, 2013 at 11:39 AM Comments comments (0)
As published in the Savannah Morning News - 22 September 2013
Assisted Living vs. Staying at Home.
Are you considering the option of moving to an assisted living community or trying to stay at home?  Most people I consult with tell me they are trying to stay in their homes for as long as possible.  Here are some things to consider.
Assisted living adds a safety component to seniors living alone.  It can be the difference of life and death.  Falling is one of the most frequent accidents I see in the elderly, and falls can change your life in an instant.  If you hit your head, or land so that you cannot push an emergency button dangling for your neck or on your wrist, you may not get the life saving help you need.
I just spoke to a woman who fell in her garage and lay there all day until a neighbor across the street came home from work and saw her as he was picking up the paper from his driveway. Another client fell while her husband was out of the house, and even with an emergency device hanging from her neck, she could not activate it.  The “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up” device is good to have, but not always the answer.  Having people checking on you frequently throughout the day, or living with you in your home, raises the odds that you will be saved.
  • Does your home offer a safe environment?  Some things to think about:
  • Are your floors level?  Are there raised thresholds that are hard to differentiate from level ground?
  • Do you have area rugs over carpet that present tripping hazards?
  • Can you enter and exit your home safely?  Could it be adapted to allow for handicapped access?
  • In dim light, can you tell the difference from the floors and the walls?  Where do the floors end and the walls start?  Floor and wall colors should be contrasting to help you avoid falls.
  • Are your rooms arranged for safe passage?  Do you have furniture in places that can trip you?
  • Do you have an extra bedroom to accommodate a live-in helper, or family member to provide around-the-clock assistance?
  • Can you afford in-home medical care or companion services?
  • Do you have a bathroom that can be adapted to safely accommodate a wheelchair, walker, and ingress/egress from a shower or tub?
  • Is there a bedroom on the ground floor with a bath nearby?
  • Do your hallways allow enough room for a wheel chair or walker to safely make turns into a bedroom or bath?
  • Is your kitchen serviceable from a wheelchair?
Many times I am called in to do assessments, manage renovations, and stage homes for safety and maneuverability.  Some homes are easily adapted to the physical capabilities of the client, and others are not.   If not, assisted living is the beginning of a journey to a safer, healthier life, providing the support that you need.
Assisted living communities also provide a social setting to develop friendships, while living at home can be very isolating, a common cause of senior depression.   Some see isolation as the lesser of two evils when compared to the fear of moving and the unknown.  If you could only observe the positive changes I see in my clients (and my own mother) who have moved to new communities, you would think twice about staying at home.   They are transformed - happier, healthier, and enjoying new friends and activities, with a full support system.
Additionally, seniors lose the energy and/or ability to properly maintain their homes, and when I come to list a property for sale, I discover a plethora of maintenance and repair issues that need to be addressed.  Properties deteriorate without attention, and so does the value.
Don’t let the fear of moving paralyze you.  This next step can be an exciting adventure...not the end, but a new beginning!  It can boost your social activities, lift your spirits and provide a safe environment in which to enjoy your life.  There are many communities to choose from; just take the first step.

Waiting to Sell? Here's Some Great Market News!

Posted on December 21, 2013 at 11:31 AM Comments comments (0)
As published in the Savannah Morning News - 1 September 2013
Waiting to Sell? Some more great market news!
The market is hot, hot, hot!  Last week I gave you 11 reasons why you should get off the fence and sell now.  Now here’s another that is sure to inject a slew of new buyers into the market.
Friday, August 16, the Federal Housing Association (FHA) pulled a rabbit out of their hat, shortening the waiting period for homebuyers who are now “seasoning”.  I have written several articles about these buyers, who must wait to buy again after experiencing a bankruptcy, foreclosure or short sale.  The last six years, has been challenging, and many people have lost jobs, homes and their self esteem.
The FHA has realized that it needed to soften up its requirements for some of these buyers.  This is for buyers who meet FHA approval, which make up a large percetnage of people stuck in watiting periods after bankruptcy, foreclosure or short sale.
The FHA is cutting the amount of time that homebuyers must wait after a bankruptcy, foreclosure or short sale to one year before they may qualify for an FHA-backed mortgage.  Previously, buyers had to wait two years after bankruptcy and three years after foreclosure or short sale.  But in order to qualify, borrowers will need to prove their household income fell by 20 percent or more for at least six months; that the income drop was tied to unemployment or another event beyond their control; that they have had at least one hour of approved housing counseling; and that they have had a full year of on-time housing payments, among other things.
“FHA recognizes the hardships faced by these borrowers, and realizes that their credit histories may not fully reflect their true ability or propensity to repay a mortgage,” said FHA Commissioner Carol Galante, in a letter to mortgagees announcing the changes.  Dubbed the "Back To Work - Extenuating Circumstances Program", the
FHA removed the familiar waiting periods that typically followed a derogatory credit event.
If you've experienced any of the following financial difficulties, you may be program-eligible :
Pre-foreclosure sales
Short sales
Chapter 7 bankruptcy
Chapter 13 bankruptcy
Loan modification
Forbearance agreements
The FHA realizes that, sometimes, credit events may be beyond your control, and that credit histories don't always reflect a person's true ability or willingness to pay on a mortgage.  Use the Q&A below to learn more about the FHA's Back to Work - Extenuating Circumstances program.
What are the minimum eligibility requirements of the FHA Back To Work program?
In order to qualify for the FHA Back To Work program, you must meet several minimum eligibility standards. The first is that you must have experienced an "economic event" (e.g.; pre-foreclosure sale, short sale, deed-in-lieu, foreclosure, Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Chapter 13 bankruptcy, loan modification, forbearance agreement). The second is that you must demonstrate a full recovery from the event. And, third, you must agree to complete housing counseling prior to closing. You must also show that your household income declined by 20% or more for a period of at least 6 months, which coincided with the above "economic event".
How do I document a 20% loss of household income for the FHA?
In order to document a 20% loss of household income, you must present federal tax returns or W-2s, or a written Verification of Employment evidencing prior income. For loss of income based on seasonal or part-time employment, two years of seasonal or part-time employment in the same field must be verified and documented as well. Income afterthe onset of the economic event, which should represent a loss of at least 20% for at least six months, should be verified according to standard FHA guidelines. This may include W-2s, pay stubs, unemployment income receipts, or other. Your lender will help you determine the best method of verification.
How do I document a "satisfactory" credit history since my "economic event" for the FHA?
Your lender will review your credit report as part of the FHA Back To Work approval process. All accounts will be reviewed -- ones which went delinquent and ones which remained current. Your lender will attempt to determine three things -- that you showed good credit history prior to the economic event; that your derogatory credit occurred after the onset of the economic event; and, that you have re-established a 12-month history of perfect payment history on major accounts. Minor delinquencies are allowed on revolving accounts.
Does the "20 percent loss of income" eligibility condition apply to me only, or to everyone in the household?
The "20 percent loss of income" eligibility condition applies to everyone in the household. If one member of the household lost income as the result of a job less but the household income did not fall by 20 percent or more for a period of at least months, the borrower will not be FHA Back to Work Extenuating Circumstances-eligible.
Nice to see FHA recognize that sometimes, bad things happen to good people. Economic events that were beyond a homeowner’s control were forcing millions of Americans to sit and wait before they could buy again. This policy change makes sense and should allow responsible borrowers back into the housing market.

Waiting to Sell? How Rising Interest Rates Will Impact You

Posted on August 31, 2013 at 5:13 PM Comments comments (1)
As published in the Savannah Morning News - 18 August 2013
Waiting to Sell?  How Rising Interest Rates Will Impact You...
Summer is upon us and the buying season is well underway.  We keep seeing reports of an improving market, and consequently, some sellers are convinced that if they wait to sell, their values will increase.
Maybe, but how long will it take, and what is the opportunity loss?  As they say, “cash in hand…”   If you sell for a little less than you might next spring, you have money in hand and can get on with your life.
Here are my reasons to sell NOW:
1.  Locally, our market is bustling, although most families with children have already settled in their new homes for the start of the school year.  While you are waiting (and the summer passed you by), those buyers have bought.  Soon the holidays will be upon us and those that are left will retreat until next year.  Don’t miss this window of opportunity.
2.  With the economy improving, mortgage rates are rising.  Many buyers believe the bottom of the market has come and gone, and they see housing prices rising.  They are especially motivated to buy now while rates are still low and the market has stabilized.
3.  For the last 6 years, buyers have been a fearful bunch, worried they would pay too much.  It’s been a Buyer’s market, but not so today.  With less inventory to choose from, and fewer distressed properties available, it has become a Seller’s market.  Take advantage of it.
4.  While higher rates are spurring sales and actually helping the housing market, they affect the buyers’ ability to buy the amount of home they could purchase a year ago.  The upward trend of home values and mortgage rates directly affects the buyer’s ability to qualify for a home mortgage.  This means the longer a buyer waits, the house they saw a few months ago may now be out of their price range.  Coupled with the increased mortgage rates, the payment may now be out of their reach.  It’s a double whammy that removes a segment of the buyers from the market.  Rates have increased more than a percent since last year.
5.  Rising mortgage rates are beginning to impact the housing market.  Pending home sales declined in June after reaching the highest level in more than six years, according to the National Association of Realtors® (NAR).  NAR chief economist, Lawrence Yun, noted that rates began to rise in May, taking some of the momentum out of the contract activity in June.
6.  Following the onslaught of foreclosures and bankruptcies, there are many potential buyers who have risen from the rubble, now qualified to purchase a home.  These folks have been renting for the last few years, but believe in the American Dream of home ownership.  They are a determined bunch, and they will buy again…it could be your home.
7.  Although foreclosures are on the decline, short sales continue to increase, with lenders arranging deals before they even process their first foreclosure filing on a delinquent homeowner’s property.  Forbes real estate writer, Morgan Brennan, states that during the first quarter of 2013, short sales increased 79% versus a year earlier, thanks in part to the fact that short sale guidelines were loosened.   It stands to reason short sales will continue to pull home values down, slowing market recovery.
8.  According to Jed Kolko, Trulia’s Chief Economist, it’s 44% cheaper to buy versus rent.  In fact, homeownership is cheaper than renting in all of America’s 100 largest metros. That’s because low mortgage rates have kept buying almost as affordable, relative to renting, as it was last year.  Renters are making the shift into home ownership.
9.  The old mantra was “Sell high, buy low”.  Today, it’s “Sell low, buy low”.  If you are buying, your perceived “loss” is minimized by the lower purchase price for your next home.
10.  Both CoreLogic and Altos Research (real estate data trackers) predict this surge in home values won’t last. They say several variables, including increased inventory and higher mortgage rates, will slow the pace of growth and recovery.  I say, there’s no crystal ball….is it worth it to wait?
11.  We still have underwater homeowners, with mortgages higher than the market value of their homes.  Until these properties appreciate, these owners are trapped in their homes, causing a drag in the market recovery.  According to Daren Blomquist, vice president of RealtyTrac, an Irvine, Calif.-based foreclosure site, there are 11.3 million borrowers who are upside-down.  He predicts it will take 2 to 3 years until they gain equity, allowing these buyers to re-enter the market.
Housing recovery is complicated and unpredictable.  What we do know, is that locally, we have serious purchasers in the market NOW.   My listings are selling quickly and inventory is in demand (that’s a GOOD thing!).  Economists are predicting even higher rates this year, so while the buyers are hot, be IN the market.  Who knows what tomorrow will bring?
Next week in Moving Mom…Buying a Short Sale in Today’s Market

Are You Sure That's a Bedroom?

Posted on August 31, 2013 at 5:06 PM Comments comments (2)
As published in the Savannah Morning News - 4 August 2013
The Truth About Gross Living Area
When listing a home, I am amused when my clients insist they have more bedrooms than I can count.  These “bedrooms” don’t include a closet, or you must pass through the room to get to another room.  They argue that when they bought the home, it was advertised that way, and they believed it.
“Not so”, I say, feeling confident that I am backed by appraisers everywhere.   When financing is involved, appraisers are all about getting it right.  Not only is a lender interested in how many bedrooms you have, but they want to know the true square footage of the home as well.  Why?  Because when they represent the lender, they don’t want to exaggerate the value, causing the lender to provide an excessive loan amount.
According to D. Scott Murphy, SRA, who writes for the Georgia Real estate Appraisers Board, he believes, in terms of value, that the overall living space, or gross living area (GLA), is one of the most important elements of a home.  The American National Standard Institute (ANSI) gives appraisers a number of standards for calculating GLA.
Let’s start with the bedroom argument.  According to the standards, a bedroom is defined as a room of “adequate size”, which has no less than 100 square feet, and must have a closet, window and door.  It must be heated, cooled and finished to the same quality as the rest of the house.  So folks, that walk-in closet (with the hidden closet/storage area inside) may have served as a bedroom, but the appraiser won’t count it.
The most common and unknown factor is that a bedroom must also have ready access to a FULL bath room, with a tub and/or shower, toilet and sink.  Think about this:  You may have a bonus room over the garage; it has a closet, window, and door, is heated, cooled, and finished to the same quality as the rest of the house, but you have to go down the stairs and across the house to use the bathroom.  That does not function on the long-term basis as a bedroom.
Mr. Murphy states, “Another common scenario is that you might have four ‘bedrooms’ on the second floor of a house.  Three of the bedrooms have private baths.  How is someone in the fourth bedroom supposed to get to the bathroom?” He has a point.  The most common scenario:  “Bedrooms” serviced by a half bath do not function on a long-term basis as a bedroom.  In both cases, these rooms are considered a den or office.
Now, let’s consider how gross living area is measured.  As Realtors®, we often take the measurement from the county tax records, but occasionally, sellers will tell us they have added rooms to the house, enclosed a garage, or finished a bonus room.  If the additional square footage is not included in the tax records, and there aren’t any notations on the records regarding the addition, it strongly suggests to us that there may not have been permits pulled when the work was done.*
When preparing a listing in the Multiple Listing Service, we must choose an option to indicate where we got the square footage information.  Most listings reflect the square footage was found in the county tax records, but occasionally we see it was provided from an appraisal or the seller.
Sellers beware.  You can be held liable for your information, so be accurate.
Realtors® usually assume areas that are heated and cooled should be included in the GLA.  However, ANSI standards define “finished area” as “an enclosed area in a house suitable for year-round use, embodying walls, floors, and ceilings that are similar to the rest of the house.”  So, without finished walls or heating and cooling vents, the porch you just enclosed is not going to measure up.
When measuring GLA, measurements must be taken to the nearest inch or tenth of a foot, and floor area must be reported to the nearest square foot.  Garages are specifically excluded.
There is also the standard that says if any portion of the floor is below the grade of the ground, it is considered below grade space and CANNOT be included in GLA.  Value is given to these below grade spaces; they are just handled separately.  All appraisers use the same measurement standards as a basis for determining GLA; however, there may be some local exceptions, so it is important to use a local appraiser.
Misrepresentation by you and/or your Realtor® can have legal repercussions.  It is critical that you recognize these factors and determine gross living area correctly, as this forms the foundation for the valuation of the entire property.
*Caution:  Square footage added without permits will be counted by the appraiser, and can become an issue with the buyers.  Additionally, it can resurface when they resell the house.  After closing, buyers sometimes sue sellers when they discover undisclosed, non-permitted improvements.  The new owner may suffer damages (they charge back to you) when City or County building inspectors force the owner to pay penalties, remove the addition, or bring the property up to code.
Next week in Moving Mom…Waiting to Sell?  How Rising Mortgage Rates

Possession Paralysis - Do you feel trapped by stuff?

Posted on July 29, 2013 at 6:42 PM Comments comments (0)
As published in the Savannah Morning News - 28 July 2012
Possession paralysis, surprisingly, is real.
David Ekerdt, a gerontologist with the University of Kansas, was in search of answers.  He and his team wanted to know whether the sheer volume of possessions that seniors acquire over decades become an obstacle to late-life downsizing.
Specializing in senior move management and real estate services, I know how physically and cognitively daunting the process can be for my clients.  Not only are they trying to assist with packing and sorting, but making the hundreds of small decisions required to sell their home and make a move just wears them out.  To better assist my clients, I was especially interested in the outcome of Dr. Ekerdt’s study.
Dr. Ekerdt acknowledged that real estate closings and apartment leases create added deadlines and greater pressure.  Coupled with the emotional element of moving, the need to unload possessions in the downsizing process can be particularly difficult for seniors.  Nobody had really documented that the need to unload possessions affected seniors’ decisions about moving to more manageable quarters – until now.
Dr. Ekerdt was able to insert several questions into the continuing national Health and Retirement Study in 2010 and gathered data from almost 1,100 community-dwelling adults over age 60.  “It confirms all the anecdotal things that lawyers, geriatricians and families tell us: Stuff can be a problem,” he said.
We’re not talking about hoarding, a disorder in which the inability to dispose of even useless objects becomes extreme. This is normal clutter: 60 percent of respondents said they had more possessions than they needed. The proportion didn’t vary by gender or bear much relationship to personality traits, but people who were married (more acquirers per household) and wealthier, with bigger homes, were more likely to feel “over-provisioned,” probably because they simply had more space into which to stuff more stuff.
Many of the folks I talk to claim their stuff has sentimental value and the associated memories make it difficult to part with it.  But Dr. Ekerdt and his colleagues, who have conducted 100 interviews in movers’ households, learned that stuff may not even be particularly treasured.  “We hear somewhat about special, cherished things, but we hear more about just quantities of generic possessions,” he said. “It’s a problem of volume as much as sentiment.”
I’ve experienced this with seniors who buy in great quantities.  I might be packing their 30 rolls of paper towels, a case of liquid hand soap dispensers, loads of duplicate spices, pantry items, etc.  I attribute this phenomenon to Depression Era babies, who may have experienced rationing, and may still fear that supplies will run out!
It’s not so important when people can’t park in their garages or close their closet doors.  But when Dr. Ekerdt asked respondents how reluctant they felt about moving, considering the effort required to transfer or dispose of their belongings, he found that 48 percent felt “very reluctant” to move and another 30 percent were “somewhat reluctant.”  That adds up to more than three-quarters of people over 60 feeling trapped, to some degree, by stuff.
Are people so afraid to leave their stuff that they forgo simplifying their lives and moving to smaller abodes?  Do they choose to age in place because they feel trapped in a larger home?  In the study, more than a quarter of these older people said their families or friends had urged them to downsize, and of those, half said that family and friends had offered to help.
Almost always, I hear from my clients that their children will want their things - their china, crystal, antiques, photo albums, etc.  The truth is, in real life, their children are Baby Boomers who already have their own stuff and are beginning to shed what they have.  Unless they are extremely sentimental (which is rare), I do not see Boomers loading up their cars and hauling Mom and Dad’s beloved treasures away.  A few boxes of photos, maybe, but not much else.
Disposing of stuff is the hardest part of my job.  Dr. Ekerdt found that the proportion of seniors who had methodically disposed of possessions was not high. Only 3 percent said they had sold “many things” in the past year. “People have these ‘Antique Road Show’ dreams, but many of our possessions are not very salable,” Dr. Ekerdt said.  Only 14 percent had given many things away to family and friends, and 23 percent had donated to a charity or community groups, probably the simplest way (though still not simple) to get rid of stuff.
In fact, the study showed that lots of people hadn’t gotten rid of anything! Possession Paralysis was alive and well, and very, very real.  Their families will not be grateful when a safer or simpler home is needed, especially in response to a health crisis, and the whole job of downsizing and disposal falls to them.  Do you really want to leave this burden to your family?  REALLY?
Next week in Moving Mom…Are you sure that’s a bedroom? The truth about Gross Living Area. Stay tuned!

Ditch the Lawn Mower! Is Condo Living for You?

Posted on July 29, 2013 at 6:37 PM Comments comments (0)
As published in the Savannah Morning News - 21 July 2013

Ditch the Lawn Mower!  Is condo living for you?

At this time of year, many of my neighbors are toiling under 98 degree heat, and above the hum of the lawn mower, I hear them swearing they want to move to a condo.   No more lawn mower…lots more golf!

Sound familiar?  If the lure of a carefree, turnkey lifestyle appeals to you, then certainly a condo is a solution.  So, how does condo ownership differ from the home you just sold?

First of all, know what you are buying.  The term “condominium” is actually a legal type of ownership.  People tend to use “condo” and “town houses” to describe a type of dwelling, when it actually applies to the type of ownership and/or type of dwelling and associated ownership rights.  The big difference is whether you own the land underneath the dwelling or not.

Fee Simple ownership, as opposed to condominium ownership, includes the land under the unit.  Town homes are often sold fee simple and a survey marks the boundaries of the property included in the sale.   Many developments have common roofs and walls between units, and the owners are responsible for the maintenance of the exteriors and the landscapes within their boundaries.  Common areas are maintained by the home owner’s association, but there may still be some maintenance required by the home owner.

Some important questions related to fee simple ownership:

  • If your roof needs to be replaced and connects with your neighbor’s roof, how is this handled?
  • Can the association force the neighbor to replace their roof, if needed?
  • Are fences your responsibility, and if so, how do you handle costs on a shared fence replacement?
  • When exterior maintenance is necessary, does the association handle it, or is it your responsibility?
  • Can you hire your own contractor, or must they be chosen by the association (and billed to you)?

Condominium ownership differs from fee simple ownership in that it is an estate in real property consisting of an individual interest in an apartment, and an undivided common interest in the common areas in the development, such as land, parking areas, elevators, stairways, exterior elements, etc.  In effect, the condominium permits ownership of a specific horizontal layer of airspace as opposed to the traditional view of vertical property ownership from the center of the earth to the sky.  In other words, you own the right to the space inside the unit.

Under individual state laws, the developer/owner of the condominium executes and records a master deed together with a condominium declaration.   The declaration is recorded, and is accompanied by a copy of the bylaws, a condominium map, floor plans and elevations.  It is important that you review these documents to make sure the rules and regulations are acceptable to you and your lifestyle.    Whether buying a condominium or fee simple dwelling, these types of ownership require a bit more due diligence than buying a single family house.  A carefree lifestyle is appealing to many and can be a great choice if you do your homework.

Understand resale rules.  Resale of a unit may be subject to the right of first refusal of other owners.  If so, it delays the sale of the unit for a specified time period until all owners have been notified and given the time to come forward to match or better your contract offer.  If this right exists, check to make sure there are no financing pitfalls, such as the inability to obtain a mortgage for yourself or a future buyer.

Know your total costs.  Condos are usually more reasonably priced than single family homes, but the lifestyle cost (mortgage, utilities, maintenance, and association fees) may be equal to or, in some cases, greater than those of your previous single family home.  Sometimes there are two association fees, one for the condo or townhome, and one for the neighborhood surrounding the complex.  Planned Unit Developments often include a mix of different types of dwellings, with common area maintenance required outside the complex where your unit is located.  In that case, you may be responsible for two monthly fees, rather than one.

Can you rent out your unit?  Check the association documents.  Rental of units is often restricted by length of lease, or by how many times a unit may be leased within a year.  This controls the transient nature of rentals, and keeps the full-time residents happy.  Also, if a development goes beyond the allowable rented percentage of units, lenders will not approve mortgages, which affect re-sales and thus values.  If home owners agree, diligent association managers can control the number of rentals permitted in order to comply with lender requirements.

Check minutes to Association Meetings.  You’ll learn a lot.  Check a few months back to know what the issues are with the association.

Are there any outstanding assessments?  During your due diligence, make sure the seller of your unit is up to date on all assessments and ask the association manager if there are assessments under consideration.  Outstanding assessments don’t have to be a deal killer, and should be negotiated with the seller before you close.

How many owners are past due on Home Owner’s Dues?  Too many delinquent owners can bankrupt an association.  Be sure to ask the question, and review the budget.  Not a budget whiz?  Ask your accountant to review it and give their opinion of solvency.

We, as Realtors®, can guide you through the process and help get you the information you need to make an informed choice.  So, if you are ready to simplify your life, get rid of the lawn mower and let’s start packing!

Next week in Moving Mom…Possession Paralysis – Do You Feel Trapped by Stuff?  Stay tuned!

Working with Hoarders - Oh My! Part III

Posted on July 29, 2013 at 6:15 PM Comments comments (0)
As published in the Savannah Morning News - 14 July 2013

Working with hoarders – oh my! Part III

For the last two weeks, we have looked at various hoarding characteristics, levels of hoarding, and discussed the dilemma we find ourselves in when a hoarder must be moved to a downsized home or to assisted living.

Most often, family members, estate attorneys or financial planners contact me to help them with cleaning out a home, moving the occupant and ultimately selling it.  Sometimes the elderly parent or occupant is still living there, but in dangerous and unsanitary surroundings.

I have seen every kind of hoarding situation:
  • too many papers/newpapers
  • vast “collections” of treasures
  • trash piled everywhere
  • water issues
  • broken pipes, roof leaks and toxic mold
  • flea, bug and rodent infestations
  • multiple animals left behind to fend for themselves
  • furniture stacked everywhere

My experience is that even if the hoarder is unsafe in their home and their health has deteriorated, their fear of losing their stuff overrides what is ultimately in their best interest:  moving.  It seems no amount of coaxing on the part of the family makes a difference, and although we can discuss the need to make it happen, the parent refuses to move.  It is often a catastrophic event that forces the move, such as an accident, a life threatening illness or death of the occupant.

There is no easy way to force a move, but when trying to help a hoarder agree to move to a safer environment, here are some ideas that have worked for me and other move managers:

Paper hoarders:  we move the person and the piles to the new residence and put it reasonably back the way we found it.  Piles can be labeled, photographed and organized so that the hoarder is again surrounded by the same piles that were moved.  If space in the new place is an issue and this is not possible, renting storage to hold the boxes is an alternative solution.  The occupant can be moved to assisted living and the parent has the peace of mind that their treasures are still there.  For reassurance, they can even visit the storage facility from time to time.  Seem drastic?  Maybe, but the psychological state of the parent must be considered when dealing with this disorder.

Collections of treasures:  I met with a woman who had dishes piled in every room.  It was not an unsafe situation, but there were hundreds of stacks of dishes, all in hues of blue, and very important to her.  Her daughter was desperate to move her to an assisted living community, and the new place would not fit the dishes.  We decided to take a sample of each place setting and combine them, then sell the rest.  Her mom was satisfied that she could still have the dishes she had chosen, but not have to take the full sets.  We showed her pictures of mix-and-match table settings in some of the latest magazines and that did the trick.  This can apply to other collections as well – keep a sampling and sell the rest.

Also, for legitimate collections, there are professionals who can assess their value, and sometimes selling the collections for a nice amount of money is attractive to a hoarder.

Furniture:  This depends on what we find.  If there are antiques, we call in antique specialists to determine the value and the best way to sell the pieces.  Consignment or auctions are usually the way to go, and again, the parent may agree to sell if the value is there.

Not antiques?  For high-end furniture, consignment or estate sales are an option.  If the furniture is not necessarily valuable, but usable, it may be consignable, or there are auction companies that will pick it up and sell it for you.  If selling it is possible, putting it in storage is an option.

Piles of trash:  Bag it up in black construction bags.  Simply put, if it is not toxic, move it to the next home.  If there is no room, consider storage.  I know this sounds crazy, but it can facilitate the move and keep the parent or client from having psychotic repercussions.   The goal is to make the move happen, right?

Animals:  This is where I draw the line.  Neglected animals are a serious situation.  The psychological well being of the occupant is secondary to an unsafe environment created by unsanitary conditions, affecting the health of the occupant and the animals.  The proper authorities should be contacted and the animals and occupant should be removed from the unhealthy house.  A Hazmat crew will need to clean out and treat/sterilize the home before it can be sold.

In hoarding cases, project management is always involved, and once the occupant has moved out, preparing the house for sale is the next step.   The level of hoarding, and whether the property has been damaged in the process, will determine the amount of work to be done.  The process can be a daunting endeavor for the hoarder and the family, but it can be done.  Patience, compassion, and professional help will ensure a successful outcome, one step at a time.

Next week in Moving Mom…Ditch the lawn mower!  Is condo living for you?  Stay tuned!

Working with Hoarders - Oh my! Part II

Posted on July 29, 2013 at 6:08 PM Comments comments (0)
As published in the Savannah Morning News - 7 July 2013

Working with hoarders – oh my! Part II

Last week we cracked open a door on the subject of hoarding and I mentioned there are many types.  The toxic hoarders, requiring Hazmat suited professionals to do everything but tear the house down, are thankfully few and far between.  Today, we will explore problems associated with hoarding and the levels of hoarding that we face in the real estate and move management business.

In the last 5 years, with foreclosures and short sales being a significant part of our real estate world, we Realtors® have experienced trashed or neglected homes, some with animals left behind, and many that require professional clean out.   These environments create dangerous issues, such as flea, bug and rodent infestations, unsanitary conditions, water leaks with the inevitable mold issues, coupled with lots of stuff left behind.

When you combine all of the above, it’s a toxic home, and we have tackled this type of situation though managing roof /plumbing/water leak repairs, mold remediation, bug and flea treatments, rodent capture, all followed by the eventual clean out of the house when it is safe to do so.

According to Randy Frost, PHD, with the International OCD Foundation, hoarding is a complex disorder that is made up of three connected problems: 1) collecting too many items, 2) difficulty getting rid of items, and 3) problems with organization. These problems can lead to significant amounts of clutter which can severely limit the use of living spaces, pose safety and/or health risks, and result in significant distress and/or impairment in day-to-day living.

Collecting Too Many Items:
  • Too much shopping is the most common way that people who hoard collect items—3 out of 4 shop too much.
  • Roughly 1 in 2 people who hoard report excessively collecting free things.
  • The collection can also occur without any effort—for instance, food wrappers or the packing material that comes with new purchases.

Difficulty Getting Rid of Items:
  • The hallmark of hoarding behavior is not being able to let go of things. Throwing away, selling, giving away, or even recycling are very difficult for people who hoard.
  • While, to most people, the objects saved may seem worthless or worn-out, in truth, people who hoard usually can’t let go of anything and often have homes filled with otherwise useful items that are buried under the piles.
  • The reasons for saving these things are largely the same as for the reasons people who don’t hoard things. The most frequent reason for saving things is to prevent waste, followed by informational content, emotional attachment, and finally, liking the way something looks or feels.
  • Some people who hoard believe they can get rid of items, but the process is so time-consuming they often give up, leaving the clutter to grow.
  • Clothes, newspapers and books are the most commonly hoarded items, but the list can include almost anything.

  • In addition to collecting too many items and the difficulty getting rid of items, most people with hoarding problems can't organize their possessions. These problems may be associated with information processing, problems with attention, categorization, and decision-making.
  • Attempts at organizing usually result in hours of moving possessions from one place to another without any effective result.
  • The disorganization results in piles of possessions throughout the home that consist of mixtures of worthless and valuable items, complicating attempts to de-clutter.

Recognition of the problem: ·
  • Not realizing the seriousness of hoarding is common among people who hoard.

  • Five Levels of Hoarding:  According to the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (NSGCD), there are five levels of hoarding that are outlined by the NSGCD Clutter-Hoarding Scale. Each level is defined according to several parameters, including:
  • condition of the building
  • number of pets and how well they are being cared for
  • presence of pests such as rodents or insects
  • whether or not the rooms of the residence are usable
  • accessibility of doors, hallways and staircases
  • sanitation and cleanliness of the residence

Level I- A normal or standard house with accessible doors and stairways, minor evidence of pet accidents, a slight presence of insects or rodents, some clutter but not excessive, and normal safe sanitation with no odors.

Level II- One of the exits is blocked, and one major appliance, heater or air conditioner has not worked for more than six months; there is pet odor and pet waste, limited care of fish, reptiles or birds, and moderate evidence of insects and rodents. The use of more than 2 of the rooms is prevented by clutter, and passageways are somewhat narrowed. There is little evidence of house cleaning activity such as sweeping or vacuuming, and moderate amounts of mildew in kitchens and bathrooms. Food preparation surfaces are soiled, garbage cans overflowing, and there are noticeable odors.

Level III- Clutter is seen outside the house, there are at least two non-functioning appliances, unsafe use of extension cords, and slight structural damage to the house. One to three pets exceeds limits set by the Humane Society (not counting litters of puppies or kittens that are being well taken care of.) There are unmaintained aquariums or bird cages, audible evidence of rodents, an infestation of fleas, and moderate amounts of spider webs. Hallways and stairs are constricted, and one bedroom or bathroom is unusable due to clutter. Hazardous substances such as broken glass or spilled chemicals are present. The house has not been cleaned and there is dust, obviously unchanged bed linens, excessively soiled surfaces, garbage and dirty laundry throughout the house.

Level IV- The house has structural damage, mold and mildew, damaged walls, electrical hazards and a backed-up sewer system. Four animals exceed Humane Society limits, and there is animal waste, pet dander, spider webs, and evidence of wild animals such as squirrels, bats or raccoons inside the house, as well as an infestation of fleas and lice. The occupants are unable to use the bedrooms, and are sleeping on the couch or floor. There are hazardous materials and flammable material in the living area. No clean dishes can be found, and there is rotting food in the kitchen.

Level V- The house is basically unlivable. There is structural damage, no water, power or sewer, standing water, and excessive hazardous materials being stored. Obvious rodent and insect infestations are present, the bathroom and kitchen are unusable, the occupant may or may not be sleeping in the house, and there is human waste and rotten food present.

These definitions of the levels of hoarding are helpful for professional move managers or organizers and mental health professionals or social workers to determine what type of intervention or treatment is appropriate. We will continue to explore what to do when you or a family member is faced with a hoarding situation and ways to tackle the toughest move.

Next week in Moving Mom…Working with Hoarders, Part III, oh my!  Stay tuned!

Working with Hoarders - Oh My! Part I

Posted on July 29, 2013 at 5:56 PM Comments comments (0)
As published in the Savannah Morning News - 30 June 2013

Working with hoarders – oh my!

Hoarding has become a popular subject, written about in magazines and is even the focus of television reality shows.  This is the first of a two part series, as we explore hoarding from a real estate and move management perspective.

It is often a source of embarrassment for the person who suffers from this disorder, and is always frustrating for the family members who spend their lives trying to “fix” the situation.  I have spent quite a bit of time studying the subject, and this psychological condition is very real, requiring professional treatment to effectively help individuals with hoarding disorders.

In the past, hoarding was regarded as an obsessive compulsive disorder; however the medical community now recognizes the disease as one that has earned its own category.  I am not a doctor, so my intent is not to write from a medical point of view, but as a Realtor® and Move Manager.  From time to time, I do face the challenge of selling a hoarder’s property and relocating them to another home.

All the hoarders I have met are single.  This disease does not always manifest itself in obvious ways until the hoarder is older, so later in the marriage, spouses lose patience with it and cannot live in the condition they find themselves.  They divorce, and the children, feeling helpless to cure the problem, distance themselves as well.  It can be a very sad and lonely existence for some hoarders, but others can hide the disorder by keeping people from entering their homes.  They can simply go about their lives on the outside without the world knowing.

My first point of contact is usually with the adult children, attorneys or even financial planners trying to help their client.   Most often the “client” is not the hoarder, but they are obviously the fragile part of the puzzle that must be considered.

The move is initiated because of concerns for the hoarder’s safety, and usually motivated by physical ailments that require assisted living.  With children, there is always frustration expressed on the other end of the phone, and embarrassment to have to bring an outsider into the mix.  It is difficult for them to expose the situation, but I assure them that in my profession of selling homes and moving people, there is very little I have not seen.

When I am called to list a home for sale, the family secret is out, and the hoarder must expose their condition to me.  I become the obvious threat to their continued way of life, and the comfort they feel surrounded by their stuff.   Upon entering the property, I am not only assessing the home, but I am also considering the owner.  Removing a person from their home, throwing away all their “treasures”, and simply expecting them to adjust, is not reasonable.  This remedy, as simple as it seems, can cause psychological damage.  Care must be taken to ease the concerns and fears that hoarders feel when threatened by this situation.

There are many forms of hoarding, so when I enter a home I am also assessing the environment; is it safe for me and my crew to be there?  My job is to move the parent to a new location, then prepare the house for sale and get it sold.

If the house is toxic, however, our safety and health become the primary concern.  Yes, I have turned down toxic jobs, and will continue to do so if we are in danger.  The only solution is to call in a company who covers themselves with protection against air born and physical hazards.  Once the house is cleaned out, we can perform our duty to get it sold.

Fortunately, most of the hoarding situations I see do not require hazmat suited professionals, and we can handle the task.   So how do I approach these situations, and what are some of the solutions for successful moves with minimal collateral damage?  Next week I’ll describe some of my experiences, and how they were handled.

Next week in Moving Mom…Working with hoarders, Part II – Oh my!  Stay tuned!


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North Inlet White Gumbo

Soups, stews
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 yellow onion, rough chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
6 ounces smoked sausage, quartered and sliced
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1/2 stick butter, cubed
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups yellow squash, diced
1 1/2 cups zucchini
1 1/2 cups sweet white corn kernels
2 bay leaves
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
4 cups chicken stock
1/2 pound chopped okra
1 tablespoon hot sauce, plus additional for passing
Salt and pepper
1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp
1 pint shucked oysters (optional)
In a large, heavy saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Add the onion, bell peppers and smoked sausage and sauté until onion is translucent, 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and sauté two minutes more. Stir in cubed butter. When butter is fully melted, reduce heat to low and sprinkle in the flour, stirring occasionally until flour tans slightly, approximately 4-5 minutes.

Add zucchini, yellow squash, corn, bay leaves and dried spices. Stirring continuously, slowly add chicken stock. Raise the heat to medium and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover partially and simmer for 20 minutes. Add okra and simmer 10 minutes more.

Taste the gumbo and season to taste with salt, pepper and hot sauce. Just before serving, stir in shrimp and simmer until pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Stir in oysters, if using. As soon as the oysters’ edges curl, about one minute, ladle gumbo into warm bowls and serve with extra hot pepper sauce.

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text:
Whether you have a unique career path or have a common job title, some positions have formed unintentional and spontaneous stereotypes.  For example, if you are in Marketing you MUST be tech-savvy and, ultimately, be able to fix any IT problem.  (NOT)

Do some of these stereotypes sound familiar?

“HR is too strict and sensitive”

If a company has more than 100 employees, they likely have someone with HR training.  Unfortunately, those in HR have the unpopular job of enforcing corporate policy and, as a result, they get the bad rap because of it.  Most of us can relate to the HR rep that is too strict or too lenient.  As their title indicates, Human Resources provide support (resources) to employees (human). Thus, they provide the structure to how an employee should be properly treated in the workplace.  As an HR rep, however, it is to the employee’s benefit that you are there.  An HR Department gives companies an advantage. You ensure each employee has a positive experience – from introduction to the company as a candidate to the onboarding and eventual safe work environment.

“Accounting is Boring / Accountants are Introverts”

And…if the profession is boring then the person is boring.  Unfortunately, the accounting profession faces many stereotypes driven by dated misconceptions.  But, not all accountants are introverts locked away in a cubicle doing taxes.  And, believe it or not, all accountants do not love math.  Accountants are actually professionals that make decisions and communicate with the client rather than just crunching numbers.  The increase in technology and software has made the calculation process more streamlined, allowing accountants to use their strong communication skills to work with a team to make informed decisions.  See Mia’s article on this in LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/stereotypes-accounting-profession-mia-norton/?articleId=6653408528813907968

“Working in the Trades is Undesirable Work”

Welders, plumbers, electricians, machinists, ag technicians, etc – these careers are in higher demand now as fewer young people are entering the trades.  Many of these tradespeople are approaching retirement. No doubt, the shortages are only going to increase.  Unemployment among college graduates is at an all-time high with the majority of those graduates not working in their field of study.  For some reason, when asked ‘what do you do for a living?’, there is a belief that saying a trade position is a bad answer/embarrassing.  Get hands-on experience coupled with a few weeks of schooling a year.  After the assigned schooling schedule, you will graduate with a career and no student loan.  Annual earnings are often comparable to your white-collar counterparts – earning decent wages and greater benefits.    Check out this article debunking some of the stereotypes.

I’m sure this is a small list – what other ones can you think of?

Explore Your Options

Every profession has a reputation.  There are a certain set of expectations on how they should behave – right or wrong.  Before dismissing a position title, consider exploring the role and the company.  Job stereotypes might just be holding you back from your best career choice ever!

The positions listed above are not usually represented by Grasslands.  Check out https://www.grasslandsgroup.com/career/careersite.html to see if some of the positions we are posting might fit your experience.

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The Forbidden Fruit of the Elephant Tree!

Made with a similar botanical selection as the original Marula Gin, but now with the notable addition of pomegranate! This extra botanical brings a burst of fresh fruit sweetness to the flavour profile – always much appreciated!

The Marula fruit grows in Africa on the Marula or Elephant tree, so called because elephants love to eat it. When they do a curious thing happens, the marula starts to ferment in their stomach, causing them to get slightly tipsy!

Inspired by this phenomenon, two Belgian guys decided to create a new gin based on the Marula fruit. The result is a triple distilled small batch gin, using rare, handpicked botanicals including coriander from India, lavender from Provence, orange blossom from Spain, and of course Marula, the forbidden fruit of the elephant tree.

The result is a fruity and sultry gin with an exotic touch.

  • 50cl £34.95
  • 40% ABV
  • Distilled and bottled in Belgium


text:
Great Throughts Treasury

A database of quotes

Han Fei, also Han Fei Zi, Han Feitzu and Han Fei Tzu

Chinese Philosopher

"No benefit is more constant than simplicity; no happiness more constant than peace."

"The way is the beginning of all beings and the measure of right and wrong."

"The law does not fawn on the noble; the string does not yield to the crooked. Whatever the law applies to, the wise cannot reject nor can the brave defy. Punishment for fault never skips ministers, reward for good never misses commoners. Therefore, to correct the faults of the high, to rebuke the vices of the low, to suppress disorders, to decide against mistakes, to subdue the arrogant, to straighten the crooked, and to unify the folkways of the masses, nothing could match the law. To warn the officials and overawe the people, to rebuke obscenity and danger, and to forbid falsehood and deceit, nothing could match penalty. If penalty is severe, the noble cannot discriminate against the humble. If law is definite, the superiors are esteemed and not violated. If the superiors are not violated, the sovereign will become strong and able to maintain the proper course of government. Such was the reason why the early kings esteemed legalism and handed it down to posterity. Should the lord of men discard law and practice selfishness, high and low would have no distinction. Hence to govern the state by law is to praise the right and blame the wrong."

"Remote fountains are of little help to nearby fires."

"No country is permanently strong. Nor is any country permanently weak. If conformers to law are strong, the country is strong; if conformers to law are weak, the country is weak."


text:
Armfield, William

Birth Date

7th July 1904

Biographical Text

On signing for Exeter City in the summer of 1929, Armfield was described as being a spry, sprightly outside right, who was extremely fast and a master of the art of confident ball control, sending in accurate centres.
He had signed professional forms for Aston Villa in February 1922, after being spotted playing for local side, Ellisons. His first team opportunities were strictly limited at Villa as he netted twice in 12 league matches.
He made his Exeter City debut in a 2-0 defeat at Brentford in November 1929, but unfortunately sustained a bad shoulder injury at Fulham in January 1930, which kept him out for the rest of the season. The following season he won a regular starting place and was a member of the City team that reached the quarter-finals of the FA Cup, as he scored nine goals in 34 league matches.
Armfield enjoyed one more season (1931-32) at the Park before leaving to sign for Gillingham, where he added another seven goals in 30 starts.
He then played for Brierley Hill Alliance in 1932-33, but unfortunately his career came to an end after sustaining a serious leg injury in a pre-season game in August 1933, which led to its amputation following complications. Despite the handicap, Armfield went on to work as a shop salesman and was a keen bowls player and cyclist.
He made a return visit to St James’ Park in July 1954 whilst on holiday in the area.

William died in 1985.

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Your privacy is very important to us at Water Data Services Pty Ltd (WDS).

While Water Data Services may not be bound by the National Privacy Principles contained in the Privacy Act 1998 (Cth), Water Data Services will endeavour to comply with the Act wherever it is lawful to do so. This privacy statement provides information about the personal details that WDS may collect and the way in which WDS uses personal information.

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Where WDS discloses your personal information, to its agents or sub-contractors for the maintenance and development of the website and its services, the agent or sub-contractor in question will be obligated to use that personal information in accordance with the terms of this privacy statement.

In addition to the disclosures reasonably necessary for the purposes identified above, WDS may disclose your personal information to the extent that it is required to do so by law, in connection with any legal proceedings or prospective legal proceedings, and in order to establish, exercise or defend its legal rights.

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WDS will take reasonable precautions to prevent the loss, misuse or alteration of your personal information.

WDS will store all the personal information you provide on its secure servers.

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Please check this page regularly to ensure that you are familiar with any changes.

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WDS is not responsible for the privacy policies or practices of any third party.

Inquiries and Complaints

Please contact Water Data Services if you have any inquiries or complaints about this privacy policy or the treatment of your personal information.

Ph: 08 83743522
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Lemon Grapefruit and Peppermint Body Butter

Our rich and luxury Body Butter(and often a favorite!) allows you to take care of your body to the same extend you care for your face.

Packed with supreme quality oils and butters, your skin will never have to feel dehydrated or beyond age again.

The locally and ethically sourced beeswax forms a protective barrier that seals in moisture and ensures that your skin stays hydrated throughout the day.

It will leave your skin with a healthy glow from the inside out!

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Lucky Dog

Lucky Dog® 24” 2-Door Pet Crate

In stock
ZW 11524
  • 24” Long x 18” Wide x 21” High

  • MADE FOR GOING MOBILE Lightweight wire kennel collapses flat for easy transport and simplifies carrying with a top handle

  • VERSATILE SIDE AND FRONT DOOR EASE Secure-latching front and side doors give you options to position the crate and control entry

  • QUALITY CRAFTED DESIGN Electro-coated, sturdy wire frame resists rust and comes with a leak-proof pan for easy cleaning and divider to adjust pup’s space needs

Lucky Dog® Crate Assembly

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Size 24”

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1-Year Warranty

Product Overview

Wilson will take Door #1 today (since the bed is blocking the other door.) It’s nice to have options when you and your pooch are on the move. That’s where this versatile, lightweight 2-door crate comes in.

As with all of our Lucky Dog® products, the goal is premium quality and design. Crafted with sturdy wire that’s electro-coated and rust-resistant, this portable pooch crate comes with latching front and side doors that give you options when space, positioning, or behavior can be a challenge. Compared to bulky, heavy plastic crates, this travel-savvy design can be carried by the top handle, and collapses flat for easy transport and storage.

You’ll nail your puppy training phase with the convenient, removable leak-proof pan for easy piddling clean-up. Plus, a divider lets you adjust the space to keep your little furry one feeling secure as he grows.

Our dog products are made in a state-of-the-art factory, a global industry pioneer in environmental responsibility that produces zero emissions and wastewater through its closed-loop recycling and reclamation processes.

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50% OFF a One Hour Massage at Illusions in Victoria

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Fine print

Expires May 31st, 2015. Not valid with any other offer. Not vaild for walk-in customers.

You will be able to instantly download your voucher in pdf format that can be printed out and given as a gift or just shown on your phone to redeem.

Limited Vouchers Available

One Hour Massage $30 ($60 Value)

Massage has been shown to relieve sore muscles, increase blood flow, and reduce stress. Sounds great, doesn’t it? If you want to experience all of the benefits of massage, pay a visit to Bobby Flores. Bobby will help you decide if a Swedish or a deep tissue massage is what you deserve to relieve your stiffness. At the end of your appointment, you’ll feel like a brand new person!

You will instantly receive an electronic certificate that you can print out or show on your phone to redeem your massage.

These Make Great Gifts! The price & discount will not show up on the voucher.

The Company

Bobby Flores LMT at Illusions Salon

3506 N Ben Wilson Suite H Victoria,TX 77901

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As a Licensed Massage Therapist, Bobby Flores goal is to improve each client’s quality of life. Schedule your appointment now and find out why Bobby’s clients rave about his talent. He is located inside the Illusions Salon.


text:
Future plans for Logan Square now stymied by new parking ordinance

Update: If you want to know what residents think, avoid the comments section on the Tribune article and head straight to the discussion on EveryBlock. Added Reverend Stein’s letter to the editor (scroll to end) on August 12, 2011.

Alderman Colón (35th Ward) told Moving Design participants last Wednesday that his office fields more calls about parking than gangs or drugs.

The City Council acts faster on parking issues than the others: the importance of parking manifested in March and June 2011 when the City Council passed two ordinances to turn certain stretches of travel lanes on the Logan Square boulevard network into legal and unmetered parking spaces.

Was there backdoor dealing?

News of the street transformation came to light this week, thanks to Jon Hilkevitch at the Chicago Tribune. Passed without any public review, “[residents] fear the move led by 35th Ward Ald. Rey Colon to establish free parking along parts of Logan, Kedzie and Humboldt boulevards, where open parkways foster a feeling of airiness, will make the grand roads seem like parking lots. Logan Square, some residents warn, could become too much of a good thing, like crowded and always bustling Lincoln Park.”

The map shows the four distinct stretches of boulevards in Logan Square that now offer many hours of free parking each week. Created with QGIS and Adobe Illustrator using data from the City of Chicago

Aldermen have more control over parking in this city than the agency most qualified to plan and manage it, that of Gabe Klein’s transportation department. But CDOT now and historically defers these matters to the alderman, “conducting only two field visits to the boulevards before approving Colon’s plan last year with some amendments. CDOT traffic engineers returned to the boulevards this year and concluded that parked cars would actually improve safety, CDOT spokesman Brian Steele said.”*

A sign identifies this area as a Landmark District, part of which will now feature free parking for hundreds of drivers. Photo by Jeff Zoline.

How this ordinance affects the community

1. Church parking on Friday at 10 PM?

Colón indicated to the group of designers that he was trying to prevent churchgoers from getting parking tickets. The ordinance is designed in such a way to also provide free parking for nearby businesses, too. The Chicago Tribune article indicates this was done under the guise of providing church parking. The pastor at Armitage Baptist was quoted as saying he wanted space to park 400 cars – space in addition to the on-street parking churchgoers have been paying for, and lots the church rents. But he wanted no special privileges.

It is not the city or community’s job to support the short-term storage of 400 cars arriving at a single destination. I’m also curious about the church services that go until 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

2. Conflicts with open space plan

The Logan Square Open Space Plan was approved by the Chicago Plan Commission in 2004 to “[provide] a blueprint for increasing the amount and improving the quality of open space.”

On page 26, under the heading “Create More Bike and Pedestrian Ways to Connect Parks and Boulevards,” (PDF) the plan suggests that bike lanes be installed on many streets including Logan Boulevard (in the main roadway) between Milwaukee and Western Avenues. The new free parking zone conflicts with this sensible bike lane location. Bike lanes cannot coexist with variably timed parking lanes.

The boulevards may soon look like this. Photo taken on Palmer Square looking towards Kedzie Avenue which is not part of the new free parking zone. Photo by Jennifer.

Bicyclists who ride on the main roadways of these boulevards will be at increased risk of dooring during the free parking hours. Bicyclists should ride assertively and away from the door zone wherever cars are parked.

3. Kedzie bike lane stops at Palmer

These two ordinances may be one reason the new bike lane on Kedzie Avenue, starting at North Avenue on the south end, goes only as far north as the south side of Palmer Square. The southern end of the new free parking zone on Kedzie at Belden Avenue is 970 feet away. Cyclists do not stop at Palmer Square if their destination is further north at Fullerton Avenue, or Logan Boulevard, or points further north.

This bike lane is also a missed opportunity. The space was available to create a buffered bike lane, but instead the bike lane was placed in the door zone and the remaining travel lane was widened, negating the benefit of narrower travel lanes.*

An on-street bicycling facility should be extended on Kedzie Avenue from its current terminus at Palmer Square, through or around the Logan monument circle, to connect with the also-new bike lane on Kedzie Avenue at Milwaukee Avenue to Barry Avenue (this is yet another instance where bike lanes end before advancing bicyclists through intersections).

4. Parking is readily available at Emmett Street

Lynn Stevens, author of Peopling Places, pointed out to me today that the City-owned parking lot –but managed by Chicago Parking Meters, LLC/LAZ Parking – on Emmett Street at Kedzie Avenue has about 115 parking spaces. She notes that it often has many open spaces and costs the same as on-street parking. Lynn said that with signage near the parking lot would notify drivers that the parking lot exists. If LAZ Parking installed smart systems, drivers could even be alerted to the number of spaces remaining in the lot. Drivers can stay longer in the lot than on the street: 10 hours versus 2.

5. Free parking encourages more driving

Logan Square has been made more attractive to visitors thanks to the pair of ordinances. Now with hundreds of new free parking spaces, a large portion of new and existing visitors will come to Logan Square in their cars. This in a neighborhood that has easy access to the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Blue Line and several CTA bus routes; it also has a high number of people riding bicycles to and within the area.

The relevant signs will be posted within three weeks. The ordinance numbers are OR2011-2204, passed March 9, 2011, and OR2011-5435, passed June 8, 2011.

New parking schedule:

  • Logan Boulevard between Sacramento and Maplewood avenues; 7 to 9 PM Wednesdays; 7 AM to 9 PM Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Logan Boulevard (south side only) between Maplewood and Campbell avenues; 7 to 9 PM Wednesdays; 7 AM to 9 PM Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Kedzie Boulevard between Linden Place and Belden Avenue; 7 to 11 PM Thursdays and Fridays; 7 AM to 11 PM Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Humboldt Boulevard between Shakespeare Avenue and Cortland Street; 7 to 11 PM Mondays through Saturdays; 7 AM to 11 PM Sundays.

*This is because on narrowed roadways, drivers tend to drive slower, thus reducing the severity of any collisions that occur.

Reverend Stein’s letter to the editor

Rev. Paul C. Stein, Pastor, St. Sylvester Parish, Chicago, wrote a letter to the Chicago Tribune editor, published on Wednesday, August 10, 2011, in response to the newspaper’s editorial published on the previous day.

I was very disappointed to read the Aug. 9 editorial regarding the ordinance sponsored by Alderman Colón for parking on the boulevards of Logan Square, specifically on Sundays. The editorial states that the alderman “should listen to ideas for a better solution. I ask: a better solution for whom? Frankly, those who expressed opposition to the ordinance do not represent the majority of people who live in the neighborhood. What ultimately makes a city great is not the buildings, but the people who form the community.

Read the full letter. In it he also states the reasons for the long hours: AA programs and soup kitchens.

22 thoughts on “Future plans for Logan Square now stymied by new parking ordinance”

  1. With regard to bike lanes, it’s important to think about the transportation network and connections. In addition to the Kedzie bike lane interruption due to this sanctioned parking lot, Logan between Western and Diversey recently got a bike lane that will also be interrupted by the new Logan parking lot.

    On Twitter, CDOT says, “Logan Blvd one of several LoganSq streets eyed for bike/ped improvements. More info later this summer,” and “That’s one of the things we’ll be looking at–use of right of way, parking prohibitions, etc,” which seems counter to this parking sanction on Logan and shutting down of the planned bike lane.

    I disagree with what CDOT’s Steele (who BTW is a spokesman, not a planner nor transporation expert; he used to work for water dept., e.g.) says in the Trib article. While it’s true that adding curb parking to a street typically slows down cars as their lane or at least the perception of their lane is narrowed, I can’t see that holding true when a traffic lane is converted to a parking lot. The traffic lane is wider than a typical parking space width, so a car parked in a traffic lane does not narrow the adjacent traffic lane or provide the illusion of a narrowed lane. Quite the opposite, it widens the perception of the moving traffic lane as there’s now a larger buffer between a car parked a foot or less from the curb than there was between a moving car centered on the lane. Which are you going to be more cautious of?

    I do want to note that I was successful some time ago to get at least one church to at least include transit info in addition to parking info on its website.

    1. 1. The bike lane on Logan between Western and Diversey has been there for several years. But it’s kind of a pointless bike lane. CDOT talks about how it doesn’t build bike lanes unless they are connected, that is, they reach other pieces of the bikeway network. This bike lane is an orphan.

      2. With a new CDOT commissioner, I wonder how long the transition period is. How long does it take for Gabe Klein to know about all the projects in CDOT’s plan? And how long will it take him to learn to deal with the City Council’s style of mutual back rubbing?

      3. You raise a good point about parking and its effect on traffic speed. I may add your comment to the article, which reminded me that cars will not be parked at all times in a nice row, but will probably have empty spaces between cars. Bicyclists foolishly ride to the right, instead of a straight line, and you will see them meandering into these empty spaces, going in and out of sight.

      4. When I worked for the CDOT Bicycle Program, one of my tasks was to attract more visitors to our website. One method (which worked) was to convince website owners (like Adler Planetarium, Field Museum, and the City’s own events/tourism website) to put information about bicycling to their attraction and visitors could get more information about bike routes on the Bicycle Program website.

      Thank you for your comment, Lynn!

      1. I’d like to give a word of support for the admittedly-incomplete bike lane on Logan b/n Western & Diversey. It’s far from a perfect solution, but without it motorists were squeezing themselves onto that stretch of Elston side-view-mirror to side-view-mirror, at least there is now some semblance of a right-of-way indicated for cyclists.

        1. Your support is noted.

          Crews were restriping Logan Boulevard between Western and Diversey this afternoon. And there’s a slight redesign in the pavement marking plan northbound, north side of Elston that is beneficial to cyclists.

  2. Why should the neighborhood have to provide free parking to 400 cars just because the drivers claim they’re on a mission from gawd?

  3. This is troubling, although I’m not sure why there is a need to add a bike lane on the main drives of Logan Boulevard. I’ve always enjoyed the side roads of the boulevard for biking, and have always thought that they should designated official bike lanes. With the side roads already in place, bike lanes on the main drag seems a bit redundant. What’s your opinion on this?

    1. Matt, if you put a bike lane in the service road, residents could not drive and park there. I know I’d rather see the bike lane on the main boulevard and let the transient visitors park in the lot, on metered parking or find alternative means of transportation.

    2. I don’t think we should be limiting our options now (by designating the outer lane of the main roadway as a free parking lane) until the community has outlined its goals, has discovered all of the possibilities of bike friendly roadways in Logan Square, and has consulted with experts (engineers and planners) about the feasibility of each bikeway type (bike lane, marked shared lane, neighborhood greenway, buffered bike lane, or nothing).

      I would prefer to have a bike lane on the main roadway of the boulevards. I don’t like having to cross so many streets to get to where I’m going. If I’m on the north side of Logan Boulevard and I’m going southbound on California and I want to turn eastbound onto Logan Boulevard, a bike lane in the main roadway means I only cross two intersections, while a bike lane in the service road means I cross three intersections. Then, while biking in the service road, towards Diversey Avenue, I have to stop at EACH and EVERY intersection with a north-south street. If I was biking in the main roadway, I would only have to stop at each intersection that had a stop light.

      1. You sound like a driver.

        BTW, there aren’t that many additional stop signs at the N-S streets, and while you need to keep your eyes open, it’s pretty rare to have to stop.

        1. There are stop signs at every cross street with Logan Boulevard side streets.

          The stop sign requires one to stop, not whether or not it’s rare that you have to.

          1. OK, you’re right I just rode the route and there ate stop signs at every intersection. That said, I only needed to stop at Cal and Sac.

            The larger point is that I think that a separated lanes parallel to a major e-w street, even if shared with the occasional cat or jogger. The stop signs could all be turned ninety degrees to allow bike traffic to flow and stop the n-s traffic from Logan and the side streets.

    3. I agree with Steve about the benefit of having a bikeway on the main road. I cycle here all the time, and the possibility of conflicts with motorists is MUCH greater on the service road from cars turning off Logan–often quite fast, and when you’re already in the middle of the intersection.

      The potential for conflicts with pedestrians, dog-walkers, runners–all of these are much greater on the service road.

      I do ride the service roads when I’m just riding around the ‘hood lazily, but when I have somewhere to go, I appreciate the faster speed and fewer stops of the main road.

    4. I agree. I ride to work regularly, and even though it is shared with vehicles, I find it much safer on the interior road and find the conflicts to be minimal. Of all the priorities for good bike lanes in the city, I’d rank the four-lane portion of Logan to be very low.

  4. I’m far from being an advocate of this plan, but Klein has mentioned one thing about this that’s an advantage: the traffic-calming aspect of it. Traffic on the boulevards moves pretty fast sometimes, and there are definitely people who tear around the square, wheels squealing. More cars parked on the side of the road = less room to speed. As someone who lives on Kedzie Blvd, I’m OK with that.

    Also, re: bike lanes on the main boulevards, the sides of the boulevards are already a fantastic bike route. There’s little to no vehicle traffic, mostly leaving you with a proper full lane to bike on. Putting them on the main boulevard would be a waste of resources, when that money could be used on the MANY other less bike-friendly streets.

    1. What I don’t see happening is an objective review of this parking change. CDOT should measure traffic volumes and speeds on all three “free parking segments” now and then two times after the parking change takes effect.

      Will traffic have been calmed 6 months from now? How can we prove that?

  5. From Colon’s email that they send out every week:

    “Alderman Colón has taken an innovative approach to increasing resident participation in local government and establishing transparency”

    Tranparency, eh? Quite interesting the lack of transparency regarding the recent parking on the blvd. Where was the resident participation in that? Wasn’t in any emails, wasn’t on the website… where was the announcement for resident participation in this vote?

    1. Exactly what was that innovative approach?

      If you’re in the area Thursday night (08-25-11), come to 2157 N Humboldt at 6:30 PM to hear my group’s vision and goals for the CTA Logan Square Blue Line station and plaza.

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Multicultural Resources Parenting

When Two Worlds Collide. Yes, I Am Latina And I Am Desi!

When Two Worlds Collide. Yes, I Am Latina And I Am Desi!

“The biggest struggle that I’ve faced is that people have repeatedly told me that I am not enough. In the Desi community, I have been constantly reminded that I am “the mixed” child.”

An Interview On The Journey Of Being A Mixed Desi

I connected with Ruby via social media and asked her to share some of her journey as a mixed Desi. She agreed to provide a raw look into her upbringing as a Latina and a Desi/South Asian woman. Thank you, Ruby, for your earnest and tear-inducing words and invaluable insight.

Tell me a little bit about yourself (introduce yourself and your ethnic background, where you grew up, etc.)?

My name is Ruby Iffat Ahmad. I am a Latina (Salvadorian Puerto Rican) and Pakistani writer, photographer, and health care worker who grew up in Crenshaw, CA, for quite some time. I moved around a lot throughout my life (even lived in Texas for two years). I currently live in Highland Park, Los Angeles, CA.

When did you realize you were multiracial?

My mother is Salvadorian Puerto Rican, and my father is Pakistani. And since I was a child, I always knew I was multiracial. At a young age, I spoke Spanish at home with my mom, nanny, and my maternal grandparents when they visited. Also, during that time, my paternal grandparents lived with us, so I heard Urdu all the time. I thought it was normal to be in a household with so many languages happening all at once.

On top of that, I went to a Muslim school that was very diverse. I heard all kinds of languages throughout the day. So being around different languages and cultures all at once felt like home.

Ruby and her dad.

Do you identify more closely to one culture than the other? If so, why?

I feel like I represent a blend of both cultures. But candidly, I do lean towards my Latin side more than I do to my Desi side. Outside of the fact that I live in Los Angeles and the Latinx community is huge here, it has always been easier for me to connect to that side of me. Additionally, I spend a lot of time with my mom, and we jam hard to Mana together and go to my Tia’s (Aunt’s) house to watch novellas and to make pupusas and champurrado.

What has been your personal experience with prejudice and discrimination?

Growing up, the biggest struggle that I’ve faced is that people have told me repeatedly that I am not enough. According to each culture (Pakistani and Latina), I am bits and pieces of each of them. In the Desi community, I have been constantly reminded that I am “the mixed child.” From my curly hair and appearance to not being able to speak Urdu, that made me different from everyone. I’ve never felt whole from my pre-teens onward because of the Desi community, making me feel like being a Latina is wrong or that I was too Americanized. That is why I embraced my Latina side so much over the years because that side did not have many issues with me being part Desi.

Today, I still struggle with my Desi side because I am not really apart of the Muslim community anymore. I, do, have Desi friends, and they are incredible people, but I still have this weird feeling of not being Desi enough. I feel Latina enough; it’s just the Muslim/ Desi side that I still feel so out of place with.

Ruby with her Desi family.

How do you celebrate your cultures today?

As a Latina, I celebrate it by going to events, participating in them, sharing artwork, and photography. I celebrate being Desi during Eid with my parents, or when I celebrate Pakistani Independence Day.

Collectively, and in sum, I cherish being Latina and Desi by eating the food from both of my cultures, learning the history, the music, watching Bollywood movies (it is a guilty pleasure), and just keeping up with pop culture and news. Last, and most importantly, I decolonize my food, writing, art, and thoughts, etc.

Ruby celebrating Holi.

What advice would you give other children that are from multicultural/multiracial backgrounds like yours?

 I want them to understand how beautiful they are. The splendid blend of the cultures they represent, however many it may be. They have a special place here in this world. It is okay not to know or to be proficient at all of your familial languages. You can embrace your cultures in any form that you want to and do it in your own way.

What advice would you give parents raising multiracial children?

Read stories and folklore to your children from your own country or your childhood. Continuously show them how unique and beautiful their cultural backgrounds are. Remind them every day that they are the perfect blend of everything. Make your child aware that people will say hurtful things but not to let those hurtful things affect them and to stay strong. Let your children know it is alright to speak up when someone says something about where they come from, even if it is a family member. Most of all, let your children know that it is acceptable to make their own blend of who they want to be. They are enough!

Sadly, many people are culturally insensitive to the unique struggles of multiracial people. What do you wish others knew?

Ruby and her parents.

What did you think of Ruby’s interview? Have a question for us or want to share your story?  Write to us

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Alumni Spotlight: Christine Lee MPAc 16

Apercen Partners LLC

Christine Lee MPAc 16 shares why teamwork is one of the most important aspects of building a high-performance accounting firm—and how she honed her skills while a student in the Master of Professional Accountancy program.

How do you collaborate at work to make an impact?

Everything happens from the ground, up, and starts with the associates and goes all the way through to the partner and if there's one break in that chain the whole thing can fall apart and so, I think that teamwork is really one of the most important aspects of building a good firm.

What are some highlights in your career in the last few years?

I think that communication is something that comes pretty easy to me, and your managers and everyone above you really truly values your input and is really impressed when you bring problems to them early.

What are the biggest challenges in your industry?

I wasn't born with the, like, technical skills for this profession, so for me that development process is ongoing and it's still ongoing.

Is there a professor that stands out to you and why?

The face I saw was Will Snyder obviously going into his class. And knowing that I was going to do tax, I was very involved and very excited to be in his class with him and he definitely made an impression on me and still does to this day. I mean, he's an awesome person.

How did the UC Davis MPAc program help launch your career?

Basically, networking that I get through the program I think is absolutely crucial to career development and here at Apercen, where I am now, and beyond.

What should future MPAc graduates be aware of as they start their careers?

Preparing themselves for what it means to transition from a full-time student into a full-time working professional. These busy seasons, occasionally really, really long hours and it's really important to, at least mentally, kind of prepare yourself for what that's gonna look like.


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GTA Wiki
GTA Wiki

Barbara Schternvart is a character in the Grand Theft Auto series who appears as a minor character in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. She can become one of Carl's potential girlfriends.

Barbara is a deputy sheriff who lives in Tierra Robada and serves the desert of Las Venturas. She has two children, both of whom are unseen, and is divorced. Sometimes during dates, Barbara will mention her ex-husband is a "bastard" and that he called her a "control freak", suggesting they split up due to a dysfunctional relationship. This relationship is also mentioned by a quote she says when Carl meets Barbara for the first time; "Hi, I'm Barbara. I'm divorced and have two children. You still interested?".

Barbara's line of work apparently keeps her very busy; she mentions that shallow graves are discovered in her desert jurisdiction every two weeks.

Sometimes, Barbara might also talk about a plane crash near The Big Ear.

Barbara can be found outside the El Quebrados Sheriff's Station and to get her attraction prefers CJ to be fat, although this is not necessary if sex appeal is at maximum, or alternatively if all Oysters have been collected. Once dating is initiated, Barbara can be found at the El Quebrados Sheriff Station between 00:00 and 06:00, or sometimes between 14:00 and 20:00, to take her out on dates.

Driving date

While on a driving date, Barbara prefers CJ to drive at roughly the same speed as regular traffic. As Barbara is fond of driving around El Quebrados, the player can simply drive around the block until Barbara is satisfied.

Food date

While on a food date, Barbara prefers to go to diners. The closest diner is Jays Diner just southwest of where Barbara lives, along the highway connecting Las Venturas and San Fierro.

Dancing date

The closest dance club is the one near The Camel's Toe in Las Venturas, while another, much further away option is the Gaydar Station in San Fierro. As Barbara dislikes the Queens district (usually stating that the district is dangerous and has a high crime rate) and is further away, it is better to take her to the club in Las Venturas. The player will need 3000 or more points to have a successful date. Both clubs are a considerable distance from Barbara's home, and require quick travel to make it before Barbara gives up on the date. Due to this, it is advised the player brings a car capable of high speeds, such as the Infernus or Turismo, to lessen the time. It is also possible to bring a Maverick to pick her up.

She will ask Carl in for 'coffee' when either all Oysters have been collected, or their relationship reaches 60%.

Image Gallery

  • Whilst dating Barbara, CJ does not lose his weapons or Body Armor after being Busted.
  • CJ will spawn in the back of the El Quebrados Sheriff's Station if he is busted near the station.
  • At 50%: CJ gains access to her Ranger.
  • At 100%: A police uniform is delivered to CJ's wardrobe.

  • Barbara's home is never seen; all pick up and meeting points with her are one and the same - at the El Quebrados Sheriff's Station. If conditions are met to be asked in for 'coffee' after a successful date, the sexual activity will occur inside the Sheriff Station.
  • Most of Barbara's textures are actually reused from other pedestrians; her face is recycled (although made much wider) from the black Los Santos prostitute, while her shirt is actually taken from the dress of a rich Hispanic woman. Her shoes are also re-used from several male pedestrians.
    • It appears that there are some errors on her texture. If CJ takes Barbara a ride on a Wayfarer motorbike, her average-sized breast will become totally flat. If she doesn't move her mouth, her jaw will also be missing, creating a rather creepy appearance of her face.
  • Barbara's Ranger's license plate reads CUFFS.
  • There is a glitch that occurs when she finishes beating up a pedestrian, where she will pull out a gun and start shooting at the player.
  • Schternvart's character model can be seen on the movie posters for the films The Mainframe and Silent But Violent in Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories.
  • If Carl hits Barbara while she is in front of the police station before dating him, she will start shooting at him with her Pistol.
  • Her surname is of German origin, implying one of her ancestors might have been German. It translates roughly to "star defender".


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Home> Top News

Atkins eyes strong growth from GBA

ByZHONG NAN (China Daily) Update:2021-07-23

UK consultancy plans additional involvement in the area's infrastructure, industrial projects

Atkins Co, a British design, engineering and project-management consultancy, plans to participate in more infrastructure and industrial projects in China's Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area during the country's 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), said its global head.

Philip Hoare, president of Atkins, said the group's growth in China will follow the country's urbanization and industrial stimulus measures to remain competitive, and its project designs in the GBA will be the company's new sample cases during the five-year plan period.

Supported by 20,000 employees in 25 countries and regions globally, the company runs a number of offices in China's GBA,Yangtze River Delta region, Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei area and Chengdu, Sichuan province. Hoare said they will remain the company's priority markets in the country in the coming years.

With many British business leaders stressing that an "icebreaking" spirit is needed for business communities in the United Kingdom to strengthen further cooperation between China and the UK, Hoare said there is no doubt that good relations between countries promote business relationships. In this regard, companies from both sides benefit from healthy and stable ties between their governments.

At the beginning of the 1950s, when Western countries imposed embargoes on trade with China, visionary British businessmen led by Jack Perry overcame many obstacles to make an ice-breaking trip to China. They not only "broke the ice" to trade with China, but also left people today with a rich heritage of China-UK friendship and exchanges.

As the COVID-19 pandemic has generated a huge impact on the global economy and has led to a deeper understanding of the importance of sustainable development, Hoare said that green innovation will be further stimulated as more companies invest more in sustainable operating technologies, facilities and services.

Since China and the UK already have a solid foundation in the field of global green cooperation, he said the two sides should further develop their advantages and characteristics, improve the green financial system, boost cooperation between financial institutions and investment projects, and jointly promote sustainable development of the global economy in the future.

Thanks to their complementary goods trade structure, trade volume between China and the UK soared 46.6 percent on a yearly basis to $52.53 billion in the first half of this year, said the General Administration of Customs.

With China setting a target to combat climate change by speeding up reductions in emissions to reach carbon neutrality by 2060, the British executive said that the company will deploy more resources to promote its low-carbon methodology in areas including architectural design, environmental protection, transportation and urban planning across China, especially in the markets related to the growth in the GBA.

Peter Kung, vice-chairman of KPMG China, said the country's Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, introduced in 2019, has already injected new impetus into technology companies in the region, generating more business opportunities for emerging industries and innovative firms.

The GBA has a complete supply chain in all respects. It is also supported by three international airports, three major global ports, two of the world's fastest-growing stock exchanges and an international financial center. There are plenty of top professionals to help entrepreneurs turn innovative ideas into successful business ventures, Kung said.