Puerto Rican Parade of Newark New Jersey

 

Puerto Rican Day Parade presents:
61st Puerto Rican Parade & Boricua Festival

Sunday, September 18, 2022
the Newark PRDP will celebrate 61 years
of showcasing the best of Puerto Rico culture
with music, dance and colorful display of cultural pride.

Groups interested in participating in the
Parade and Boricua Music Festival can apply online.

The Newark Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. (PRDP) is the largest demonstration of cultural pride in the State of  New Jersey.  Now in its 61st year, the parade takes place Broadway/Avenida Puerto Rico to Lake Street along Bloomfield Avenue in Newark, NJ in honor of the millions of inhabitants of Puerto Rico and over 5 million people residing in the United States.

Reborn in 2015, our programs and events focus on promoting Culture, Arts and Education, with special tributes to prominent, historical figures and campaigns to raise awareness of important issues in the community.  We are also committed to advancing the pursuit of higher education, awarding scholarships to students of Puerto Rican descent.

Each year, PRDP hosts a variety of cultural, educational and social, events throughout the City of Newark, NJ leading up to the day of the Parade.  These include the Sip & Paint, Domino Tournament, Voice of Poets with a Taste of Comedy, Mother’s Day Brunch, Guayaberas and Cigars, Pageant, Gala Fundraiser Banquet, Flag Raising, Boricua Music Festival, Annual Parade.

Bedroom Furniture. Make Your Own Personal Statement

 

It's a place which will help you unwind after a long day and also help you relax. Hence, it’s of paramount importance that you select the right bedroom furniture.

Your bedroom furniture must reflect your interest and must cater to your own personal needs and requirements. There are many different themes of bedroom furniture that are available today including, garden cottage, traditional, contemporary, transitional, or even exotic.

The Contemporary Bedroom Furniture

Platform beds are quite popular, when it comes to contemporary furniture. In such a bed, there are no footboards to speak of; hence the bed displays clean lines of the bedding which are obstructed by any panel or spindle that is usually present on the footboards. It’s solid, comfortable and has a slatted frame underneath, which precludes the need for a spring mattress.

These beds and the associated furniture are quite popular amongst the young, who want to give a minimalist look to their bedroom. People now-a-days do not want the encumbrance of a large amount of furniture. They are looking for space and as such contemporary bedroom furniture provides a great option for the same.

The Pieces for Your Bedroom

After you select a particular theme for your bedroom, the next course of action would be the selection of the furniture pieces. The most important furniture piece is the bed. King size beds are quite popular these days, however, the size of the bed depends on the size of the room.

The modern homes have built-in storage areas, large closets, and extra storage in bathrooms, which leaves a whole lot of space for the non-traditional furniture in a bedroom. Some popular choices in this regard can be large chairs, love seats, or chaises. You can also think about putting up a small study table or a multi-purpose table in the corner on the room, wherein you can place your computer etc. A hanging bookshelf or a simple bookshelf can also be a good idea. If you are a curio collector or have some personal collectible than a small curio cabinet can help fill up the room and also provide you with a great looking place to display your collectibles.

Some Buying Pointers

While choosing bedroom furniture, you must never ever compromise on quality. Furniture is not something that you buy time and again, so don’t buy cheap. Good quality furniture does not come cheap, so you might just have to shell out a bit of money here. Attractiveness of the furniture can be one criterion, but the durability of the furniture is as important. Give as much importance to the concept of durability as you would give to fine craftsmanship.

Comfort is one of the most important parameters while looking for great bedroom furniture. You might think that visually appealing bedroom furniture is a great buy, what if it does not provide the much needed relaxation for your body. It would be a complete waste.

Mix and Match

It's not necessary that you stick to a particular theme while choosing bedroom furniture. You can integrate two different styles of furniture and your bedroom will still look good. It’s all about your perception and not about what people will think. You can blend in various traditional and contemporary styles in your bedroom. You can mix the beauty of a traditional wall closet with the stark linear symmetry of contemporarily designed bed.

You simply must try out different things and give full vent to your imagination. Nobody is going to comment on the décor or the furniture pieces that are present in the bedroom. It is your own personal haven; you must do with it, as you wish. The right choice of bedroom furniture will make the essential difference to your requirements of comfort and luxury.

5 Ways to Make Your Home Safer

 

Whether you live in a high-end neighborhood or not, it's always important to take measures to ensure the safety of your home. Even in the most upstanding neighborhoods, break-ins can happen.

No one wants to come home to a ransacked house or have their belongings stolen, so take measures to ensure your home is as safe as possible.

Here are five ways you can make your home safer:

1. Invest in a security system

At the top of our list is a security system. This is one of the most effective ways to deter burglars and keep your home safe. There are many different types of security systems on the market, so do your research to find one that best suits your needs.

A home security system will not only protect your belongings, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your home is safe.

And if you're worried about the cost, many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with security systems and customizable solutions to fit any budget.

2. Get to know your neighbors

This may seem like a no-brainer, but getting to know your neighbors is a great way to keep your home safe.

Not only will they be able to keep an eye out for suspicious activity, but they'll also be able to help you in the event of an emergency.

So take the time to introduce yourself to your neighbors and get to know them. It's a great way to build a sense of community and keep your home safe at the same time.

3. Keep your valuables out of sight

Another great way to deter burglars is to keep your valuables out of sight. If a burglar can't see what you have, they're less likely to target your home.

So keep your jewelry, electronics, and other valuables hidden away in a safe place. And if you have large windows, be sure to keep them covered so burglars can't see inside your home.

In some cases, this can be a challenge. For example, if you drive nice cars, it can be difficult to keep them hidden. In this case, we recommend parking them in your garage or using a car cover.

Regardless of what you have, it's important to keep it out of sight and make your home as uninviting to burglars as possible.

4. Invest in good locks

Another way to keep your home safe is to invest in good locks. This includes deadbolts, window locks, and any other type of lock that will make it difficult for burglars to get inside your home.

Don't skimp on quality when it comes to locks because they are one of the most important ways to keep your home safe.

And be sure to change your locks on a regular basis, especially if you've had recent turnover in your home. You never know who might have a key to your home, so it's always better to be safe than sorry.

5. Use lights wisely

Finally, one of the best ways to deter burglars is to use lights wisely. If your home is dark, it's an easy target for burglars.

But if you have lights on in your home, it will be much more difficult for them to break in without being seen.

We recommend using automatic timers for your lights so they go on and off at random times. This will make it appear as if someone is home even when you're not.

And be sure to keep your porch light on at night so burglars can't approach your home without being seen.

The Bottom Line

These are just a few of the many ways you can make your home safer. By taking these measures, you can deter burglars and keep your home safe.

What other ways do you make your home safe? Share in the comments below.

 

Expectations For Trading or Investing Returns

 

Trading for Profit

Clearly, anyone who trades does so with the expectation of making profits. We take risks to gain rewards. The question each trader must answer, however, is what kind of return he or she expects to make? This is a very important consideration, as it speaks directly to what kind of trading will take place, what market or markets are best suited to the purpose, and the kinds of risks required.

Let s start with a very simple example. Suppose a trader would like to make 10% per year on a very consistent basis with little variance. There are any number of options available. If interest rates are sufficiently high, the trader could simply put the money in a fixed income instrument like a CD or a bond of some kind and take relatively little risk. Should interest rates not be sufficient, the trader could use one or more of any number of other markets (stocks, commodities, currencies, etc.) with varying risk profiles and structures to find one or more (perhaps in combination) which suits the need. The trader may not even have to make many actual transactions each year to accomplish the objective.

A trader looking for 100% returns each year would have a very different situation. This individual will not be looking at the cash fixed income market, but could do so via the leverage offered in the futures market. Similarly, other leverage based markets are more likely candidates than cash ones, perhaps including equities. The trader will almost certainly require greater market exposure to achieve the goal, and most likely will have to execute a larger number of transactions than in the previous scenario.

As you can see, your goal dictates the methods by which you achieve it. The end certainly dictates the means to a great degree.

Willingness to Lose

There is one other consideration in this particular assessment, though, and it is one which harks back to the earlier discussion of willingness to lose. Trading systems have what are commonly referred to as drawdowns. A drawdown is the distance (measured in % or account/portfolio value terms) from an equity peak to the lowest point immediately following it. For example, say a trader’s portfolio rose from $10,000 to $15,000, fell to $12,000, then rose to $20,000. The drop from the $15,000 peak to the $12,000 trough would be considered a drawdown, in this case of $3000 or 20%.

Each trader must determine how large a drawdown (in this case generally thought of in percentage terms) he or she is willing to accept. It is very much a risk/reward decision. On one extreme are trading systems with very, very small drawdowns, but also with low returns (low risk – low reward). On the other extreme are the trading systems with large returns, but similarly large drawdowns (high risk – high reward). Of course, every trader’s dream is a system with high returns and small drawdowns. The reality of trading, however, is often less pleasantly somewhere in between.

High Returns

The question might be asked what it matters if high returns in the objective. It is quite simple. The more the account value falls, the bigger the return required to make that loss back up. That means time. Large drawdowns tend to mean long periods between equity peaks. The combination of sharp drops in equity value and lengthy time spans making the money back can potentially be emotionally destabilizing, leading to the trader abandoning the system at exactly the wrong time. In short, the trader must be able to accept, without concern, the draw-downs expected to occur in the system being used.

It is also important to match one's expectations up with one's trading timeframe. It was noted earlier that in some cases more frequent trading can be required to achieve the risk/return profile sought. If the expectations and timeframe conflict, a resolution must be found, and it must be the questions from this expectations assessment which have to be reconsidered, since the time frames determined in the previous one are probably not very flexible, especially going from longer-term trading to shorter-term participation.

Related Articles

Examining Online Stock Investing
Getting Started With Online Investing

How to Experience Nature When on an Island

 

Islands are simply the best. There’s a reason that they tend to be seen as the ideal worldwide vacation spots. They offer peace, solitude, sun, and fun in equal amounts. Most of all, they offer authentic nature. Here are some of the best ways that you can connect with the natural island world.

Go on a Hike

Many islands offer biodiversity that extends far beyond the beach. Often, you can find islands with beaches, rivers, mountains, volcanoes, rocky landscapes, and jungles all within a surprisingly small vicinity. Choosing a hike will make an important difference in your vacation; you’re going to have to exert yourself and travel through the unknown. Just how much difficulty and uncertainty you’re willing to face will depend on your level of hiking experience. While sometimes it might be a good opportunity to forge your own path, the safer option is going to be to follow pre-established trails.

Swim in the Ocean

There’s something truly spiritual about the ocean – the massive size, the motion, and sound of the waves, the depths that hint at deeper life and intelligence. There’s no better and more straightforward way to connect with nature than swimming in the ocean. Take safety precautions, of course; sunscreen is a must. Make sure to check signs and talk with locals in order to avoid dangerous animal life, riptides, and storms. You should always be aware of your surroundings when swimming in the ocean. Bring snorkeling equipment, scuba gear, or a board if you want to experience the sea in a completely new way. But it’s not necessary – you just need yourself and a shoreline.

Observe the Fauna

Animal life is unique everywhere, but certain islands will have creatures and critters you’ve never seen before. This will especially be true if you visit somewhere in Oceania, where animals evolved independently of the other continents. Regardless – the island you visit may or may not have abundant animal life in plain view. You might have to go look for it. Make it an adventure! See if there are any natural history museums that can point you in the right direction.

No vacation can really compare to island life. There are also not many other locations that put you in such close proximity with nature. Being so far away from the cities and the streets and all other signs of ‘civilization’ will give you a fresh opportunity to connect with the world.

Got a week on the U.S. west coast? Here’s what you need to visit!

Getting Started With Online Investing

 

Types of Online Investing Accounts

As with everything else these days, the stock market has gone online. If you can shop, pay bills, and do your banking online, why not invest too? Investing online is not as big of an ordeal as some people make it out to be. The key is to know what you want before you start.

When opening a new account, investors need to answer the regular questions, such as the type of account they want and how it will be funded. When selecting an account type the kind you choose will depend on whether or not the account is taxable or tax-deferred, and also whether it is for just you or you and someone else.

You will also have to decide whether your account will be “cash” or “margin.” A cash account means you are only able to place trades for investments with money in your account. A margin account gives you a credit line from your brokerage firm. You can also have a “margin account with options,” which means you are purchasing the right to buy and/or sell a stock at a specific price. Options are quite complicated and usually only purchased by traders with experience and large portfolios.

Initial Deposit

After choosing the type of account money must be deposited. The initial deposit can be sent to the firm by check or an automatic transfer from a bank account. Another option is transferring an account from a different brokerage firm, but the process is quite lengthy and can take months to complete.

If you are trying online investing for the first time, start small. Don’t put every penny of your life savings into an online account. A smaller sum is easier to handle and easier to keep track of. When you feel confident and are ready, then you can expand your online account.

Another good thing to do when investing online is to try and stay diversified, in other words don’t concentrate all of your portfolio on just one thing, instead develop a well-balanced portfolio of stocks, bonds, and cash.

Many brokers will encourage you not to bail out on mutual funds. The main reason most investors are in mutual funds are because they don’t have the experience to make their own calls on stocks. They are also occupied with other things beside just watching the stock market. Keeping your mutual funds can be a wise decision instead of prematurely “playing the market” in individual stocks.

Online Brokerage Fees

It is important to remember that online brokerage firms add fees and charges that need to be looked at closely. Before buying and selling large scale stocks online, look at what the tax results are of such trading. The average online brokerage costs are lower than full-service brokers, but fees can still add up.

Remember that just because you are investing online, the Internet is not foolproof and you are bound to run into some problems. There will surely be times when you are unable to gain access to your account. You’re connection could be down, the brokerage firm’s server could crash if trading is overly heavy, you could experience a software glitch, or you may be away from your computer when there is a major market move. Always be prepared for these things and keep in mind the available alternative trading options such as phone trading.

When investing online it is your responsibility to say as informed as possible. Don’t just settle for what you hear. Instead do a little research on a company before investing in them. There are services that send you automatic e-mail messages over news about your stock; take advantage of these. Remember in online investing everything is up to you and knowledge is power.

Related Articles

Examining Online Stock Investing
Expectations For Trading or Investing Returns

What Skin-Care Products Are Right for You?

 

The packaging might be pretty, but it won't do a thing to alleviate troubled acne, reduce fine lines, smooth wrinkles, or replenish moisture and oils to dazzle your complexion. When it comes to cosmetics as with most other things, it's what's inside that counts.

If you feel overwhelmed by the scores of product choices available today, and the "miracles" each repute to do, becoming more familiar with terms used in cosmetology and their true meanings might be helpful in distinguishing which products are and are not right for you.

Cosmetic companies are required to accurately divulge all the contents in their products, listing them in the order of concentration, from the most to the least. Certain cosmetic terms, however, can be confusing and misleading to the average consumer; terms such as "all natural" and "fragrance-free," for instance.

All Natural Cosmetics

While all natural does mean that ingredients used were derived from natural sources like plants and other organic material, use of the term applied to cosmetics is not regulated by the FDA. Some cosmetic companies not concerned with accuracy or with reputation often mislead consumers by applying the term to their product.

It is noteworthy that according to author and cosmetic expert Paula Begoun, in her book "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me," there is no scientific evidence that "natural ingredients" are any more beneficial for skin than synthetic.

Products that advertise they are fragrance-free may still use fragrant plant extracts to mask offensive odor resulting from unrefined materials used. These extracts can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Fragrance-free, then, can mean only that the product is devoid of any "noticeable" aroma. "Irritant-free" is a more reliable term to look for in a product.

Alcohol-free products may be free of "grain alcohol," which is drying. However, other forms of alcohol such as lanolin alcohol or cetearyl alcohol may still be used. For persons with sensitive skin, Ms. Begoun suggests using products that list any alcohol component just before or just after the list of preservatives.

Being a Wise Cosmetic Consumer

The wise cosmetic consumer will select products based upon ingredient content and performance, not upon packaging or brand. Higher-end cosmetics will not necessarily work better than those that cost less, and one brand's product may be excellent, while another product by the same brand ineffective. Therefore, "brand loyalty" will not necessarily benefit the consumer.

Many department-store cosmetic companies have been merged together. In all probability, cosmetic purchases bearing three different "brand names" might in actuality all be distributed by the same cosmetic company. In fact, over 75% of department store cosmetic lines are presently owned either by Estee Lauder or L'Oreal.

The short and sweet of it is to forget the hype. Everyone's skin is different. Find out what works for you, and stick with it. Following a daily skin-care regimen tailored for your skin type, using tried and true products, will give your face a healthy glow like none other.

 

Examining Online Stock Investing

 

Stock Market Beginnings

The stock market can be traced back to the late 1700s, in the infancy of the United States. Beginning in Philadelphia, the first American stock exchanged was founded in order to bolster commerce in this new world. Before long the New York Stock Exchange was born which soon gave rise to the New York Stock and Exchange Board which led the now frenetic pace that exists today on Wall Street.

In buying a stock, an investor becomes a shareholder - or part owner - in a company. The company then uses the money supplied by their investors to further their business and increase profits. These profits are reflected in the growing price of the stock - the money needed to purchase a share of the company. Investors who now own stock in the company have seen their investment grow and should they now decide to sell this particular stock they will make more money than they originally paid for it.

This is the basic premise behind the stock market. For many generations, the stock exchange was a brick and mortar world in which investors operated through their stock brokers - professionals who would "broker" a deal between the company that was selling stock and their investor who wanted to buy it. In today's world, however, finance is conducted very differently; through a vast network of worldwide computers that act as a facilitator to online stock investing.

Online Stock Investing

Online stock investing offers consumers the opportunity to establish an account right on the Internet through any one of the online brokerage houses in existence today. It is of the utmost importance to choose a reputable brokerage company with which to work; some of the more popular companies such as Ameritrade and ETrade Financial have earned superior reputations in the industry.

Once a relationship with a reputable brokerage company is established, online stock investing first requires setting up an online account through the company. You can then build your portfolio, set financial goals, and buy and sell stocks through the site. Some of the benefits available to those who invest in this manner, include immediate access to their account profile online, up-to-the-minute stock quotes, and research and information regarding companies and the stock they offer.

Some of the other significant benefits to online stock investing include low broker's fees. While traditional brokerage fees can be on the pricey side, online stock investing generally costs the online investor $7 to $10 per trade. Online stock investing also provides the investor with greater control over their portfolio; the buying and selling of stock is completely dependent upon the investor’s decision.

Online Investing Tools

The online tools provided by the brokerage company allow the investor to chart the course of stocks of interest and review the most comprehensive information available. Of course, the most obvious benefit of online stock investing is its convenience; investing can be done right in the home – saving time and money.

The world of trading stock has changed; and stock brokers and investors alike must keep pace in this new financial world. Online stock investing is the present - and stands to be the future - of trading stock.

Related Articles

Getting Started With Online Investing
Expectations For Trading or Investing Returns

Alicia and the Hurricane

 

Bestselling author Lesléa Newman offers a tender and timely story of a Puerto Rican child facing a hurricane and her concern for the beloved coquíes of her home island.

La autora de bestsellers Lesléa Newman ofrece un tierno y oportuno cuento de una niña puertorriqueña que enfrenta un huracán y su preocupación por los amados coquíes de su isla natal.

After snuggling into bed each night, Alicia listens for the big voices of the tiny coquíes that live all around Puerto Rico and sing her to sleep.Ko-kee, ko-kee, the little frogs call. Ko-kee, ko-kee.

One day a terrible hurricane comes to Puerto Rico, and Alicia and her family take refuge in a shelter. At bedtime Alicia hears grown-ups snoring and babies crying, wind howling and rain pounding. But even though she listens hard, she cannot hear the song of the coquíes. Are the little tree frogs safe? And what will Alicia and her family find at home when the storm is over?

Alicia and the Hurricane is a tender look at the resilience of people, and native creatures, whose lives have been disrupted by a natural disaster. With love and support, family and friends come together to share, rebuild, and fill Alicia's heart with hope.Ko-kee, ko-kee!

Después de acurrucarse en la cama cada noche, Alicia escucha las formidables voces de los diminutos coquíes que viven en todo Puerto Rico y le cantan para que se duerma. Co-quí, co-quí cantan las ranitas. Co-quí, coquí.

Un día un terrible huracán viene a Puerto Rico y Alicia y su familia se cobijan en un refugio. A la hora de dormir, Alicia oye los ronquidos de los adultos y el llanto de los bebés, el aullido del viento y el golpetear de la lluvia. Pero a pesar de que escucha con atención, no puede oír el canto de los coquíes. ¿Estarán a salvo las ranitas? ¿Con qué se encontrarán Alicia y su familia cuando la tormenta haya terminado?

Alicia y el huracán es una mirada sensible a la tenacidad de la gente y otras criaturas de la naturaleza cuyas vidas son afectadas por un desastre natural. Con amor y apoyo, las familias y los amigos se reúnen para compartir, reconstruir y llenar el corazón de Alicia de esperanza. ¡Co-quí, coquí!

A Guide To Choosing Expresso Machines

 

Expresso machines are one of the most popular kitchen appliances. They have gained popularity in recent years. With one of these machines in your house, you can have your favourite coffee shop drink whenever you want, without having to leave the house.

Specialty coffee machines can be very expensive and are a significant investment. The most common machines are semi automatic or super automatic machines. Both have benefits, depending on your preference and the amount of money you are willing to spend. Take some time to learn the features and benefits of each type before you make a purchase.

Semi Automatic Expresso Machines

Semi automatic machines allow you more control in the brewing process. These are the most popular in home machines. You start and stop the brewing process, which only takes about thirty seconds. Most come with either a frothing adapter or a stem want for making cappuccino or other specialty drinks.

Semi automatics come with either a pressurized or a commercial portafilter. A commercial portafilter has a metal holder with a plastic handle. These are found on coffee shop cappuccino makers. You need to get the grind setting, tamp pressure and timing right to get the best cup possible. It takes a few tries to perfect this process.

A pressurized portafilter has a ring inside that adjusts the flow of the water. the water will flow slower for coarse grounds and faster for finer grounds. The ring also enhances the crema on top and makes a better cup with less effort from you. With a pressurized portafilter, you don’t need to worry as much about the tamp pressure or grind of the beans.

Super Automatic Machines

Some people prefer a super automatic machine. With a super automatic, you can make a complete cup of Expresso or cappuccino with the push of one button. When you first set up the machine, you pre program everything and then it’s ready to go. If you want a fast cup with little effort, or aren’t skilled at brewing, you may want a machine that can do it all for you.

Great Features of Expresso Machines

There is a wide difference in the price of Expresso makers. Part of the price difference lies in the features of the machine. The more features, the higher the price.

• A digital display allows you to control many options on your machine. You can set the timer to shut off or enter the energy saving mode. Program the machine for the water level or amount of coffee grounds to affect the taste and strength of the drink. Set the temperature for the finished drink. Some even allow you to program the machine for the hardness of your water.
• A bypass doser allows you to use different coffees. With this feature, you can bypass the grinding process and use pre ground coffee.
• An adjustable dosage feature allows you to adjust the amount of beans to be ground. Most allow for between six and thirteen grams, depending on the machine.
• A rapid steam feature will go from brewing temperature to steam temperature in ten seconds.

 

Automotive Training For Do-It-Yourselfers

 

Basic Automotive Training

Automotive training used to be a more common part of our society. Shop class was a commonly offered elective in high schools nationwide, ensuring that most boys knew their way around a car's engine bay. Additionally, cars relied more on mechanical principles, rather than computerized systems. As a result, when a car broke down, the owner was much more likely to know how to fix it themselves, or at least have a friend or a family member who could fix it for them.

The situation has changed dramatically over the years. Today's cars are much more complex, and their owners are much less likely to have had any automotive training. As a result, dealerships and garages are repairing a higher percentage of cars than ever before, and mechanics' rates have risen in accordance with the increased necessity of their services.

Those who dislike the situation have another option. With a little automotive training, most people can perform more of the routine maintenance on their cars, reducing the expenses associated with car maintenance and allowing them the satisfaction of a job well done.

Routine Maintenance

An oil change is an example of routine maintenance that frequently costs car owners far more than they need to spend. An oil change is a fairly simple procedure in most cars, requiring only enough automotive training for the individual to know the location of the oil filter and drain plug. A basic car care class should teach car owners how to locate major components under the hood and perform simple maintenance tasks, as well as imparting valuable tips for beginning do-it-yourselfers. For example, a good introductory class should warn students to beware of screwing a bolt or screw in crooked, known as crossing the threads.

A basic tune up is another routine maintenance task that do-it-yourselfers should be able to handle with a little automotive training. A basic tune up usually consists of changing the air filter, spark plugs, plug wires, distributor cap and rotor, and positive crankcase valve (PCV). Depending on the car and the mileage recommendations on the components, a basic tune up can also include replacing the fuel filter and/or the oxygen sensor. Rubber parts, such as drive belts and radiator hoses, may also be checked and replaced during a tune up. On most cars, these parts are easily accessed and require only a basic understanding of automotive functions.

For the Do-It-Yourselfer

A do-it-yourselfer who has had basic automotive training can also replace his or her own brakes. Changing the brake pads on a car is typically a dirty but simple job, requiring only a basic understanding of the braking components on a car. Additionally, there are numerous routine maintenance and repair jobs that an intermediate level amateur mechanic can usually handle on his or her own, such as replacing a battery, alternator, starter, timing belt, and many other components.

Of course, a significant advantage of having automotive training is that dealerships and garages cannot take advantage of you by recommending maintenance that may not actually need to be done. A basic understanding of auto mechanics will enable you to intelligently discuss any problems with your mechanic, understand what he or she is talking about, and recognize when his or her recommendations are exaggerated or downright unnecessary.

Obviously, knowing the basics of how a car operates can be extremely beneficial, saving you money in more ways than one. Beginning automotive training classes are usually offered at your local auto tech school or community college. Whether you intend to venture a few repairs on your own, or you simply want to be able to hold your own with your mechanic, taking a car care class ensures that you will not be a victim of your own ignorance.

Bomba Social - Celebrating 25 Years! Puerto Rican Cultural Center

 Bring your drums & falda!

Bomba Social - Celebrating 25 Years!

Puerto Rican Cultural Center

BRING YOUR DRUMS & FALDA -- WE'RE HAVING A PARTY!

Bomba Social - Celebrating 25 years

Puerto Rican Cultural Center

September 11, 2022, 2-5pm

Free & Indoor Event (masks welcome)

Come dance, play, and sing Bomba and help us cut our birthday cake. We're celebrating 25 years of bringing Puerto Rican culture and traditions to Central Texas.

The Puerto Rican Cultural Center is the only center in Texas and the Southwest affiliated with the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture (ICP) for ongoing programming that cannot otherwise be experienced in this region. Our nonprofit promotes Puerto Rican pride through educational programs and cultural events based in folklore, history, and living traditions -- dance, music, community theatre, ancestral fighting arts, and indigenous Taino heritage.

You must travel to faraway places like Chicago or New York City to enjoy another cultural center like ours!

This celebration will take place indoors at our Puerto Rican Cultural Center, 701 Tillery Street in Austin, Texas. Share the invite:

https://www.facebook.com/events/480498896778729

Our cultural center is still standing thanks to CARES/ARP/COVID recovery support from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the Texas Commission on the Arts, Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department, as well as the Mid-America Arts Alliance -- with additional support from the NEA, and the state arts agencies of Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas -- and the National Association of Latino Arts and Culture.

African Influences in the Caribbean

 

The 5th and final installment of this series will include a presentation by Francisco Tovar of the @Institute of Afrodiasporic Studies (IAS) who will share his research about West African ethnic groups and the associated cultural expressions that have contributed to AfroCaribbean identities. Melanie Maldonado of Puerto Rican Organization for the Performing Arts (PROPA) will provide a complimentary lecture on African retentions found in Puerto Rico (inclusive of gastronomy, language and dress). Olabayo Ogunrinola (Nigeria), Thobos Lubamba (Congo) and Dimas Sánchez (Puerto Rico) will close out the session with demonstrations and explanations of various drumming traditions.

You may register at: 👇https://www.eventbrite.com/e/african-influences-in-the-caribbean-pt-5-tickets-393434612517

African Influence in the Caribbean finaliza su serie con la 5ta parte, donde incluye la presentación de Francisco Tovar del Instituto de Estudios Afrodiaspóricos - IEA, donde presentará su investigación sobre grupos étnicos del oeste de África y sus expresiones culturales que contribuyeron al Caribe.Melanie Maldonado, Independent Scholar y Directora de Puerto Rican Organization for the Performing Arts (PROPA), presentará las influencias de África incluyendo gastronomía, lenguaje y vestimenta.Tambien tendremos la presentación de Olabayo Ogunrinola, Maestro de baile de Nigeria, Thobos Lubamba, Percusionista del Congo y Dimas Sánchez, percusionista de Puerto Rico cerrará el evento con una demostración y explicación de los tambores y tradiciones.Este evento es gracias en parte al Florida Humanities, Three Masks Inc y Escuela de Bomba y Plena Tata Cepeda. Pueden registrarse aquí

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/african-influences-in-the-caribbean-pt-5-tickets-393434612517

How To Turn Your Side Hustle Into A Massive Tax Deduction

 

If you took on a side hustle last year to make ends meet and earn some extra cash, you may have found an unexpected surprise when you filed your taxes. If you did not prepare carefully, you probably ended up with a big tax bill for your troubles, possibly with penalties and interest added on.

Given the unpleasant surprises of the past, you may be resigned to a life of higher taxes, all courtesy of the very side hustle you thought would help you gain financial freedom. But before you put away your driving gloves and give up on ride sharing and grocery delivery, you might want to take a second look at your situation.

With the right planning and preparation, your side hustle could actually lower your tax bill, giving you an even bigger reason to keep driving, door dashing and doing whatever it takes to make ends meet. Here are some key ways to make your side hustle pay-off come tax time.

Note: If you fall behind on filing your taxes or owe back taxes to the IRS, you’re not alone and we can help. Reach out to our tax resolution firm and we’ll help you file late tax returns and negotiate with the IRS if you owe back taxes. Contact – Ramon Ortega CPA.

Start By Estimating What You Expect to Earn

It can be difficult to estimate how much you might earn from your side hustle, especially if the time you devote to it and the amount you make varies week to week. Even so, it is important to estimate your income, not only to plan for your deductions but to make advance tax payments as well.

If you expect to earn more than $1,000 from your side hustle, you should strongly consider making quarterly tax payments to the IRS. If you fail to pay ahead, you could end up with a tax penalty when you file, and possibly interest and other charges as well. If you end up overpaying what you owe, you will receive a refund when you file your taxes.

You can start estimating your earnings by looking at how much you made last year. To fine tune the figure even more, you can look at your monthly earnings to date and annualize that figure to determine how much you could earn for the entire year.

Consider a Health Savings Account

If you have a health savings account, either through your employer or purchased on your own, you may be eligible for a health savings account, and opening one could significantly reduce your taxable income, so you can keep more of your side hustle money.

In addition to the tax savings, a health savings account can help you pay for medical expenses, both expected ones and costs that would otherwise have drained your emergency fund. Since the money you put into an HSA if fully tax deductible, this simple step can lower your tax bill quite a bit.

Open a Self-Employed Retirement Plan

If you have a side hustle, even on a part time basis, you are considered self-employed, and that means you can open a retirement plan designed for self-employed individuals. The type of account you can open, and the amount you can contribute, will be dictated by the type of business structure and your earnings, but many of these retirement plans are quite generous in their contribution limits.

If your side hustle is truly a sideline and you have a full-time job with a traditional 401(k) plan, you may be eligible for a SEP-IRA, a unique form of account designed specifically for small business owners and the self-employed. If your side hustle has gone full time, you may want to look at a solo 401(k), a retirement plan that offers high contribution limits and an enormous potential for tax savings. You will need to apply for an employer identification number (EIN) to open this type of 401(k), but you can get that number free from the IRS.

Take Advantage of Your Deductions

Having a side hustle gives you a chance to tax advantage of certain deductions, and using those deductions could significantly reduce your taxable income and boost the size of your refund.

If you run a business out of your home, for instance, you may be eligible for the home office deduction, and that will entitle you to write off part of your mortgage, utilities and other costs. You can also take a standard home office deduction based on the square footage of your dedicated workspace and the size of your home.

In addition to those deductions, you may be able to write off things like office supplies, the cost of internet access and phone service and automotive expenses if you use your car as part of your side hustle or full time business. You should always check with a tax expert before claiming these deductions, as every individual situation is unique.

Side hustles are becoming more common, and that is good news for many wallets. But when tax time rolls around, those partially self-employed individuals will need to do some serious planning to keep their bills in check, including following the steps outlined above.

Life as a freelancer or gig worker can be wonderful, but it’s not uncommon to see self-employed taxpayers land in trouble with the IRS and owing back taxes.

If you do run into tax trouble, reach out to our tax resolution firm and we’ll schedule a free, no-obligation confidential consultation to explain your options in full to permanently resolve your tax problem. www.wesolveyourirsdebt.com.

Ramon Ortega CPA

Office in Weston, FL
1555 Bonaventure Blvd., Suite 1028
Weston, FL 33326
Weston 954-465-9315
Orlando 407-478-9262
rortega@ramonortegacpa.com

Curse of the Puerto Ricans

 

The Puerto Rican Association of Dallas-Fort Worth, a co-founding member of the Puerto Rican Alliance of Texas, cordially invites you and your family to join us and the Bishop Arts Theatre Center on August 19th, 2022 for a special celebration.

The Bishop Arts Theatre Center is excited to present the world premiere of CURSE OF THE PUERTO RICANS, written by Rosa Fernandez and directed by Dr. Marta Torres.

The play is about a woman named Julia Rodriguez, who sacrificed a life of her own to stay home and support her family. But when the one she loves returns into her life and asks her to run away with him to California, she struggles with her familial obligations and finds an identity of her own.

Special Treat: Puerto Rican food trucks will be onsite during selected days offering traditional culinary bites for sale.

- 'EL Chifrijo' Puerto Rican Fusion Food Truck will be onsite on August 13th, 19th and 26th.

- 'Eddie Knows Best' Puerto Rican Food Truck will be onsite on August 20th.

*FOOD TRUCKS STILL NEEDED: CALL 972-999-1013 TO SIGN UP*

As part of APRDFW’s 41st anniversary celebration, there will be a guest performance by ‘Los Pleneros de la 100x35’ on August 19, 2022, @ 7 PM. Followed by a private show of 'Curse of the Puerto Ricans' @ 8pm. Complimentary Water, Sangria and Coquito will be offered while supplies last. Selected artwork on display is available for purchase.

Donations to APRDFW COVID Recovery Fund are welcomed and greatly appreciated.

APRDFW Members, Community Partners and Sponsors, please contact Borikén Creativo at (972) 999-1013 or visit www.flow.page/BorikenCreativo for complimentary tickets and celebration details.

For General Admission tickets for other dates/remaining shows during the COTPR's production run, use promo code APRDFW for 15% OFF or visit www.cotpr.borikencreativo.com

What You Should Know About Green Energy

 

Green Energy versus Fossil Fuels

Green energy refers to the use of power that is not only more efficient than fossil fuel but that is friendly to the environment as well. Green energy is generally defined as energy sources that don't pollute and are renewable.

There are several categories of green energy. They are anaerobic digestion, wind power, geothermal power, hydropower on a small scale, biomass power, solar power and wave power. Waste incineration can even be a source of green energy.

Nuclear power plants claim that they produce green energy as well, though this source is fraught with controversy, as we all know. While nuclear energy may be sustainable, may be considered renewable and does not pollute the atmosphere while it is producing energy, its waste does pollute the biosphere as it is released.

Renewable Energy Sources

The transport, mining and phases before and after production of nuclear energy does produce and release carbon dioxide and similar destructive greenhouse gases. When we read of green energy, therefore, we rarely see nuclear power included.

Those who support nuclear energy say that nuclear waste is not, in fact, released into our earths biosphere during its normal production cycle. They stress as well that the carbon dioxide that nuclear energy production releases is comparable, in terms of each kilowatt hour of electricity, to such sources of green energy as wind power.

As an example of the green energy production the average wind turbine, such as the one in Reading England, can produce enough energy daily to be the only energy source for 1000 households.

Many countries now offer household and commercial consumers to opt for total use of green energy. They do this one of two ways. Consumers can buy their electricity from a company that only uses renewable green energy technology, or they can buy from their general supplies such as the local utility company who then buys from green energy resources only as much of a supply as consumers pay for.

The latter is generally a more cost - efficient way of supplying a home or office with green energy, as the supplier can reap the economic benefits of a mass purchase. Green energy generally costs more per kilowatt hour than standard fossil fuel energy.

Green Energy Certificates

Consumers can also purchase green energy certificates, which are alternately referred to as green tags or green certificates. These are available in both Europe and the United States, and are the most convenient method for the average consumer to support green energy. More than 35 million European households and one million American households now buy these green energy certificates.

While green energy is a great step in the direction of keeping our environment healthy and our air as pollutant free as possible, it must be noted that no matter what the energy, it will negatively impact the environment to some extent.

Every energy source, green or otherwise, requires energy. The production of this energy will create pollution during its manufacture. Green energy's impact is minimal, however.

Think Green Around the Home

 

There are many things we can all do at home to help out our environment, the following are some tips from HG-TV that we could all use:

1. Use that BBQ! You knew grilling was a healthy way to cook, but did you know it was good for the air? Outdoor grills take less energy than electric kitchen stoves. They also keep heat out of the house, lowering air conditioning costs. Stick with grills that use propane or natural gas; they emit 5.6 pounds of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere per hour while a charcoal grill belches 11 pounds of the air-polluting compound for the same.
2. Upgrade your monitor! An LCD flat panel model uses as little as a third of the electricity of conventional tube-based models, saving you on your power bill the equivalent of leaving a 50-watt bulb on all year.
3. Buy local organic foods. Organic food tastes better and it's kinder to the earth. Thirty percent of the fossil fuel used on farms goes into the making of fertilizers. Get greener by buying items grown or produced within 100 miles and you'll reduce the amount of diesel fuel needed to ship food. You can get fresher food and help small-scale agriculture by shopping at neighborhood farmers' markets
4. Buy eco friendly paint. If you feel a little woozy after painting the bedroom with latex-based enamel, choose a product low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) instead. New designer colors and improved quality make these safer paints equivalent to standard ones and they benefit your health as well as the planet's.
5. Upgrade your light bulbs. You've heard that replacing old light bulbs with compact fluorescent ones can trim 5 percent from your monthly electricity bill. But this doesn't mean you have to live beneath the ugly glow of low-end fluorescent bulbs. Go for the premium fluorescents that cast a pure white or buttery golden light across your interior. The cost difference? Bargain basement fluorescent bulbs cost between $3 and $5; the higher grade ones cost $9 to $12.
6. Talked to the garbage man lately? Chances are you're doing a few things with your recyclables that drive him crazy. Local recycling practices vary, but there are some universal no-nos.
7. Shopping bags never go in your bins, even if they do organize the empty wine bottles nicely. Look on the bottom of your plastic items for a number and only put the articles with a 1 or 2 in your bin; most areas don't take the ones with higher numbers. Don't put light bulbs, broken glass, or bits of food in your bin, either. They gum up the process and make your waste professionals feel a little, well, tossed aside.

Astronomy or Astrology?

 

What Sign Are You?

Have you ever finally just gave in to the temptation and read your horoscope in the newspaper on Sunday morning? Sure, we all have. For most of us, it’s a curiosity, an amusement to see what they say our day will be like based on the sign of the zodiac that we were born under. Sometimes we forget that this little diversion is actually part of an ancient science called astrology that has had a powerful effect on many cultures dating back to centuries before Christ.

That is not to say that astrology is a dead art today. It is easy to find astrology advocates in every town, advertising in the newspaper and on television trying to convince us that they can tell our fortune, our future and help cure our ills by exploring the mysteries of astrology.

When you are a lover of astronomy, the confusion between astronomy and astrology by those who don’t really understand the differences can get pretty aggravating. And in early civilizations, the two disciplines were not separate. Astrology was just the religious side of the science of astronomy. So what changed?

Astrology versus Astronomy

The most significant shift that set in motion the separation of the two lines of thought began in the first century when Ptolemy wrote the very first book on astronomy called the Tetrabiblos. In it, he began to suggest that astronomy should be considered a separate science from astrology. It was quite a revolutionary book because it also was the first scientific document to suggest that the earth was not the center of the universe and that astronomy should be focused strictly on the observation and recording of events in the cosmos.

Over the next 2000 years, we have come a long way. Not only has science and religion completely gone their separate ways since Ptolemy but the science of astronomy makes tremendous strides every year that are so phenomenal, Ptolemy would be truly astounded.

Probably the biggest point of diversion between a student of astrology and astronomy is the belief that the position of the stars has meaning over the events on our lives. Of course, we do know that the weather and tides and other important aspects of our lives are affected by the stars, planets and heavenly bodies, particularly the moon. But these things are happening because of completely explainable scientific laws in motion, not because of mystical forces at work.

Astronomy is the Science

What can we, as devotees of astronomy conclude about the close relationship between astrology and astronomy? Well, for sure we want to be able to explain to anyone who is confused by the similarity in the words what the differences are. We do not want to see the two approaches to the stars and planets to become confused again. But we should do all we can do keep that distinction clear without becoming skeptical or demeaning towards those who may still hold to the teachings of astrology.

It is important to remember that what is part of a person’s religious life has a level of sacred belief to the one holding it. And it is not respectful to scoff at such things. If for no other reason than out of respect for the ancient origins of astronomy, we should give courtesy who still are exploring whether astrology has any validity for them.

If we can treat each discipline with respect but maintain the separation that must exist between astrology and astronomy, there is no reason both approaches to our admiration of the galaxies cannot coexist in peace and harmony. And for our purposes as astronomers, that harmony will allow us plenty of freedom to enjoy our quest for knowledge for many more centuries to come. And who knows, you might still like to read the horoscope on Sunday morning every so often.

Basic Home Security Products Explained

 

Basic Home Security

The vast array of home security products available on the market today can be dizzying. Home security products can be wireless or hard wired, optional or required or simple or complex. Determining which home security products you need can be difficult enough and it becomes more complicated when you have to choose between the assortment of models that are available for each product. Wading through all of the available information can be overwhelming. For this reason choosing only the most basic home security products can greatly simplify the process. The control panel, keypad, access control sensors and an audible or visible alarm are some of the basic home security products that are used in just about every home security system.

The control panel is one of the most important home security products available. This is the heart of any security system. All of the wiring for the other home security products meets at the control panel and the entire system is tied together at this location. Without this valuable component, the security system would not function properly.

The keypad is another of many home security products that exists in just about every security system. The keypad is where the homeowner interacts with the system. The system can be activated and deactivated at this location. The keypad is also where the system displays messages for the homeowners. If there has been a breach of security while you were away or if one of your home security products is malfunctioning, the keypad will display these important messages for you. The other purpose that the keypad plays is to display the current status of the system.

Home Security Products

Access control sensors are other home security products that are critical to the function of a home security system. These home security products are used to detect if a door or window is opened while the security system is activated. When these sensors are triggered an alarm will sound either immediately or on a delay. The reason that most security systems incorporate a delay is to enable the homeowner to deactivate the system upon returning to their home.

Finally, an audible alarm and strobe lights are other home security products that are commonly used. These home security products can be used separately or in conjunction with each other. The importance of these components is that they alert the homeowners as well as their neighbors to a possible intruder. In most cases a triggered alarm is enough to cause the burglar to vacate the property as quickly as possible.

Not all home security products are necessary. Many home security products such as motion detectors and security cameras are optional while home security products such as the control panel, keypad, access control sensors and audible or visual alarms are necessary for the system to function properly.

Vacations And Home Security

 

Home Security versus a House Sitter

Nothing is more stressful, disappointing, or downright sickening than returning home from a hard earned vacation – only to find that your home had been robbed. Burglary is a common thing these days, with burglary around the home occurring quite frequently. When you go on a vacation, you shouldn’t have to worry about the condition of your home and your things. Your vacation should be relaxing, without having to worry about anything. If you plan ahead before you go on your vacation – you can help to minimize the risks of anything going wrong.

One way to fend off burglars is by hiring a house sitter. A house sitter is one of the best ways to get rid of any type of trouble as well. All you need to do is find someone who will swing by your house a few times a day, check on things, and turn the lights on at night. If you have animals at your house, you may want to hire a house sitter to care for your animals as well as your home. In most cases, peace of mind is worth any price. If you decide to hire a house sitter, you should always make sure that you choose someone reliable who you can trust while you are away.

In the event that you are unable to get a house sitter, you should strive to make it appear as if someone is living in your home. To be on the safe side, you can have a neighbor whom you trust keep an eye on your home. Whoever you choose to watch your property should have a number to contact you with in case something goes wrong.

Making Your Home Look "Occupied"

You can buy various timers and such that will make it appear as if people are in your home. Radio timers and light timers can go a long way in making criminals believe someone is at your house. You’ll also want to consider your lawn before you leave as well. If the grass is too high, people will wonder if anyone is home. You should always cut it before you leave, and have someone else cut it for you if you are going to be gone for more than a week.

You’ll also want someone to pick up your mail as well. If the mail starts to pile up in your box, criminals will know that you aren’t home. Even though you may not be on vacation for long, you should always make sure that your door is locked and that you leave the spare key with someone whom you trust who can keep an eye on things for you.

House Sitter Services

When that individual comes by your home to check on things, they should be sure to turn the lights and television on in the evening. You should also make sure that your trusted person knows to check on the interior of your home, and look for anything out of the ordinary. If something is wrong, that person shouldn’t hesitate to contact the police. A broken widow, door, or furniture out of place is the first sign that something is wrong.

Vacations are something we all need to take. Vacations are supposed to be fun and relaxing, with no worries about anything else. If you take the necessary steps before you leave, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. Whether it’s a friend or family member stopping by to check on things or a house sitter that you’ve hired – peace of mind goes a long way in helping you make the most of your very important vacation.

Top Tips for Buying a Beach House in Puerto Rico

 

Puerto Rico is a place like no other. With its pleasant year-round temperatures, white, sandy beaches, and unique culture, one can only expect that visiting this glorious island would be on many people's bucket lists. However, for some, seeing it only once may not be enough. A lot of people crave frequent trips. Well, buying a beach house in Puerto Rico might just give them the opportunity for a getaway whenever they please. Furthermore, having a second property here also allows owners to generate rental income. After all, this Caribbean heaven on Earth gets plenty of tourist traffic, and tourists need accommodation.

Still, regardless of your reasons for buying a beach house in this off-shore US territory, you shouldn't purchase without knowing all the details about the actual process of buying real estate in Puerto Rico. With that said, we've compiled a guide that contains information on what acquiring such a house in this beautiful paradise means. It also consists of tips that should make the whole purchasing process a piece of cake.

How Simple Is It for American Citizens to Acquire Puerto Rican Properties?

Incredibly simple! Being a part of the Commonwealth of the US, American citizens can invest in real estate on this island with virtually no problems. In fact, even traveling back and forth requires neither passport nor a visa!

The only thing that could make it slightly more difficult to finalize the purchase is the potential language barrier. Spanish is the official language of the island rather than English. But even that shouldn't stop you! After all, these days, the majority of people speak decent English here.

Buying a beach house in Puerto Rico shouldn't be a hassle as the island is an overseas US territory that doesn't even require a passport to enter!

Is Buying a Beach House in Puerto Rico Right Now a Good Idea?

Puerto Rico experienced a debt crisis and filed for bankruptcy back in 2019. While the island's financial situation has majorly improved and is back on the right track in 2022, real estate prices are still on the lower end.

When speaking about numbers, less than $200,000 can get you a two-bedroom beach house. Of course, the actual price will vary depending on the exact location and the level of luxury of the property you are interested in acquiring.

So yes, investing in real estate in Puerto Rico might be the right decision today. And who knows, once you've bought yourself a beach house, you could even end up moving there rather than solely visiting. When it comes to international relocation, however, only a skillful team can handle it without any issues. For that reason, look for experienced US movers you can hire ahead of the process.

Tips for Buying a Beach House in Puerto Rico You Can Learn a Lot From

It's finally time to give you some real advice on buying Puerto Rican beach properties. Without further ado, we present you with expert tips from which you'll undoubtedly learn a lot!

Use Local Real Estate Agents

It's only natural that you would want to work with local realtors as, ultimately, they are the ones that know the area well. However, be prepared for a slight shock as real estate agents in Puerto Rico aren't exactly what they are in the US. The realtor's job in the States is to show you listings you might be interested in. You are typically working with only one agent throughout the process of buying a home.

On the other hand, realtors on the island of Puerto Rico own the listings. That means that one agent is capable of showing you only their houses. If you aren't interested in any of them, you are obligated to move on to the next agent until you've found one that can offer you something you can't say no to.

While working with multiple people might seem like a hassle, this nuisance is something you'll have to get over. You cannot possibly venture into the process of purchasing property in Puerto Rico without someone native to guide you through it. A local can help you explore the island, inform you of neighborhoods to stay clear from and provide answers to many questions you might have.

In case you do not know where to look for a reputable real estate agent, it's best to ask around the community. As we've already touched upon the language barrier, you probably know that for this, you might need to understand some basic Spanish.

Perform Extensive Research

Coming from the US, knowing precisely where to look when buying a beach house is something that's not expected of you. That's where research comes into play. Before purchasing a home and possibly moving to Puerto Rico with the help of a reputable moving company such as Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage, you'll want to look around real estate search websites. Zillow, for instance, has a plethora of listings available. Take notes and remember to visit the favorites in person once you've reached the island.

To be able to make a purchase, you'll first need to look into the available listings online.

Take an Actual Tour of the House(s)

And that brings us to our next tip: visiting the houses you are interested in. Photos and videos are one thing, while actual conditions are something completely different. When in the area, not only will you be able to inspect the property on your own terms, but you'll also be able to get a sense of what it would feel like to be a part of the community. Furthermore, you'll be able to see with your own eyes whether the surrounding area has everything you need.

You'll need to visit the properties you like in person to determine whether any of the houses and the local area would suit you.

Hire a Home Inspector

There's only so much an ordinary person can notice in terms of structural issues and possible damage to the property. That's why it pays to hire a home inspector. They can see problems even when there aren't any or any that can be easily seen. Puerto Rico can get extremely hot and humid. Such weather can cause damage to housing. Mold, for instance, is present in many beach homes. And since you would be making a purchase of a lifetime, you can't afford to buy a house only to realize it's barely standing. Look for an experienced surveyor to spare yourself the stress and money.

Closing Words

We hope the above information gave you more insight into buying a beach house in Puerto Rico. As you now know, this island has affordable properties to offer, gorgeous weather, and no-visa requirements for US citizens. New residents and visitors who stay in Puerto Rico for more than 183 days a year don't have to pay the majority, if not all, federal income taxes. And if nothing else convinced you to make that purchase and come to this Caribbean heaven, the tax break might just do so.

The Importance of Physical Fitness

 

One of the simplest and most effective ways to bring down blood glucose levels, cut the risk of cardiovascular disease, and improve overall health and well-being is physical fitness and exercise. Yet, in our increasingly sedentary world, where almost every essential task can be performed online, from the driver’s seat, or with a phone call, exercising and being physically fit can be tough case to sell.

In reality, everyone should exercise, yet survey shows that only 30% of the United States adult population gets the recommended thirty minutes of daily physical activity, and 25% are not active at all.

Inactivity is thought to be one of the key reasons for the surge of type 2 diabetes in America, because inactivity and obesity promote insulin resistance and other factors that trigger other kinds of diseases.

The good news is that it is never too late to get moving, and exercise is one of the easiest ways to start controlling the onset of any kinds of diseases. For people who are already candidates for some serious diseases like diabetes and heart failure, exercise and physical fitness can improve the condition of some parts of the body like insulin sensitivity, lower the risk of heart disease, and promote weight loss.

In 2003, the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism had published an issue regarding the result of their study and found out that lack of exercise and physical fitness were the key factors behind obesity and other serious diseases like diabetes.

Hence, it is extremely important for a person to stay healthy and be physically fit in order to avoid such illnesses.

Getting Started

The first order of business with any exercise plan, especially if you are a “dyed-in-the-wool” couch potato, is to consult with your health care provider.

If you have cardiac factors, your doctor may want to perform a stress test to establish a safe level of exercise for you.

Certain complications of some diseases will also dictate what type of exercise program you can take on. Activities like weightlifting, jogging, or high-impact aerobics can possibly pose a risk for people with diabetic retinopathy due to the risk for further blood vessel damage and possible “retinal detachment.”

Health experts also contend that patients with sever peripheral neuropathy or PN should avoid foot-intensive weight-bearing exercises such as long-distance walking, jogging, or step aerobics and opt instead for low-impact activities like swimming, biking, and rowing.

If you have conditions that make exercise and physical fitness a challenge, your provider may refer you to an exercise physiologist who can design a fitness program for your specific needs.

If you are already active in sports or work out regularly, it will still benefit you to discuss your regular routine with your doctor.

The bottom line is that physical fitness and exercise should not have to be a rigid activity and should not come off strong. Your exercise routine can be as simple as a brisk nightly neighborhood walk, walking the dog, or simply taking the stairs instead of the elevator. The important thing is that you keep on moving. Every little bit really helps a lot.

In the end, you will realize that the many things that good food can bring you are equally the same as what physical fitness can do for you.

Calling a Lawyer Should Be a Private Home Sellers First Move

 

Choosing the Right Real Estate Attorney

You are selling your own home because you think you’re up to the task, that it can’t be that difficult? You’re right of course; however you want to make sure you abide by some basic common sense guidelines to help ensure your success. It’s not all about putting a sign on the lawn and an advert in the paper.

Your first step should be calling a lawyer. If you don’t have one you will need to find one. A good bet is to get a referral from friends or family. A lawyer at this stage of your sale will give you all the legal information you need to enter into the sale with a confidence that would be lacking otherwise. Your lawyer can do a title search on your home to make sure it’s free of encumbrances that may only turn up on closing i.e. an encroachment. Do you have an up to date survey? These can be deal killers at the last minute you want to avoid. You’ll need a search done anyway to close your sale.

Lawyers can also advise you on any new by-laws or regulations you should be aware of for your home and area. Every jurisdiction seems to have rules that need to be followed when preparing an offer to purchase form. A lawyer can make sure these special clauses are written into your offer to purchase form. Have your lawyer provide you with copies of the offer to purchase in hard copy format and also on disk so you can print them off your home PC when needed. Ask your lawyer how he would prefer to see your offer set up.

Ask your lawyer to give you any information you will need to make the closing of your sale timely and without any surprises. If there is anything that will hold up or quash your deal you want advance notice so you can take care of the problem now. Count on being charged for your lawyers’ services but it’s the old adage pay me now or pay me later.

Ask About Mortgage Terms

Ask your lawyer to give you some insight into your mortgage situation. He can give you details and options based on your current loan that perhaps will help your sale. At the very least the lawyer can give you questions to ask at your lending institution i.e. is your mortgage assumable? If the interest rate and terms are attractive the purchaser may want to assume your current mortgage. All good stuff to know in advance of your sale. Likewise your mortgage may need to be removed so the purchaser can arrange their own financing. What are the ramifications with this, will it be expensive to remove?

When you recruit a real estate agent to help you sell your home, the good ones know all this information in advance. Any information they don’t have that can create problems generally surfaces at closing thanks to the lawyers. Your agent acts in your best interests along with your lawyer to sort out these problems at closing and many issues are usually dealt with to either parties’ satisfaction one way or another.

Not having an agent working for you means your chances of having a problem sometime during the process of trading your real estate is a real probability. The best way to mitigate your chances of potential headaches is to spend the money up front for a legal professional to sort through the landmines before you step on one and your deal disintegrates at the worst possible time. You’ll be investing a great deal of time selling your home. Make sure you are prepared. It is fairly simple to sell your own home. Closing that sale cleanly is another matter entirely.

Personal Injury Lawyer - Surefire Way To Success

 

Regardless of any or all precautions you take, an accident can happen to just about anyone, even to an injury lawyer. People neither choose to have an accident nor decide when and where it should occur.

An accident is both a painful and an expensive experience – the injury makes you suffer and the medical treatment costs quite a bit. A personal injury claim is a way to compensate many of your losses and its importance should not be understated. You can't turn back the time but you can minimize the bad consequences of your injury.

Let's Ask An Injury Lawyer

How can you handle a compensation claim if you are injured and the bureaucratic procedures are not considerate about your condition? A surefire solution is to ask a personal injury lawyer. Their job is to make an injury claim in your name, and a case to win your accident compensation. They are professional and experienced and what is most important – you don't pay anything for their services, regardless of your claim’s final result.

The injury lawyer's service is based on a 'No Win No Fee' method. Which means if you lose your accident claim, the lawyer is responsible for such loss, i.e. you don’t pay them a penny. After all, why should you, if their job is to win your claim and don't?

If your injury compensation claim succeeds, the lawyer recovers all their fees or bills (payments, costs of injury assessment, medical examinations, court fees, etc.) from the losing side or their insurance company and you should get 100% of your injury compensation. It's a very fair deal that the injury lawyer takes all the risk, so for you it’s safe and stress-free solution – it reassures you that the lawyer will do their best to win, as at the end of the day they want to get paid as well.

Choose Wisely!

You have a free right to decide if you want to make use of personal injury lawyer and it should be fully respected. Companies harassing and hassling injured people, asking them for their money, are no more than a relict of the shameful history.

If you feel that you need advice or help, you look for it, not otherwise. If you need an accident lawyer’s service, you call for it. If you have any questions and you are not sure about anything, look for a free assessment, without strings attached.

Why A Personal Injury Lawyer's Service Is So Important?

Of course, you could try to handle your injury claim all by yourself, but let's think about it for a moment. How solid is your knowledge of the laws concerning accidents and accident claims?

Do you know how to make all the necessary preparations?

Do you know how to avoid all the legal tricks, so you don't fail because of some small detail?

And finally, can you do all of it and not forget anything as for being in an injured state, poor health and the case becomes personal and emotional?

If your answer for any of the questions above is 'no', then here's another one: is there any reason to reject the services of experienced, professional personal injury lawyer if it improves your situation and costs you nothing?

An injury lawyer is there for you! They have all the necessary knowledge and skill to handle your compensation claim. The accident injury is a problem itself and it can be just a tip of the iceberg, but it doesn't mean that you have to sink into trouble – a compensation claim can help you financially and an injury lawyer will do that for you.