Article newsfeed http://www.hvlifeonline.com/ en-us Copyright 2009 The Professional Image. All Rights Reserved. Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://backend.userland.com/rss RSS.NET: http://www.rssdotnet.com/ 1. Do you really need a Reverse Mortgage? Why are you interested in these loans? What would you do with the money? Are the needs you intend to meet really worth the high total cost of these loans? 2.  Can you afford a Reverse Mortgage? These loans are very expensive, and the amount owed grows every month. 3.  Can you afford to start using your home equity now? The more you use now, the less you will have later when you may need it more. If you are not facing a financial emergency now, considering postponing a Reverse Mortgage. 4.  Do you have less costly options? Are there other financial resources you could use instead of    taking out a loan? 5.  Do you fully understand how these loans work? Reverse Mortgages are quite different than other loans, and    risks to borrowers are unique. Before considering a Reverse Mortgage, you need to do your   homework carefully. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1168 Feature Stories http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1168 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT When she found herself sinking under $100,000 in nursing home bills after her husband's death a few years ago, 69-year-old Laura Todera of Goshen knew she was in trouble. She needed a quick solution to erase the nagging medical debt. She found the answer in the form of a Reverse Mortgage. The increasingly popular federally insured private loan option allows homeowners over the age of 62 to take a loan against their existing home loan. Recipients do not have to repay the loan until their home is sold or no longer used as a main residence, although the value of the home must be maintained. In turn, it allows the homeowner to convert a portion of often long-built-up equity directly to cash. In Todera's case, a Reverse Mortgage was a lifesaver. "My Reverse Mortgage allowed me to pay off all of those hospital bills and even have some cash left over," explains Todera. "I would definitely recommend it, as I already have to many of my friends; it allows them to stay in their home if they are pressed for money and don't want to ask others, like their children, for help." Reverse Mortgages are experiencing an unprecedented boom as hard economic times continue. Homeowners are searching for ways to hold on to the savings they have worked so long to accumulate. According to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), there was a 41 percent increase in Reverse Mortgages from September 2006 to September 2007. For 71-year-old Goshen resident David Warren, the sharp rise is a reflection of the times. "When I took out a Reverse Mortgage in 2005, it wasn't that popular at all," says Warren. "However, it has been getting more and more popular, especially now with the economy so bad and the banks reluctant to lend out money, so you may as well try to get it from your house if you can."But with home values on the decline, are homeowners able to get as much money from a Reverse Mortgage as they used to? According to Darryl Hicks, vice president of communications of the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association, the answer is yes ... and no. "The decline is not necessarily having a negative effect," says Hicks. "You can't get as much equity as you could a year ago, but interest rates are very low right now you can actually get more money [from a Reverse Mortgage]." Because the amount of money a homeowner receives from a Reverse Mortgage depends, in part, on current interest rates (in addition to the homeowner's age and the value of the home), homeowners should be aware that as mortgage rates go up, so will the interest rate at which the loan is accruing. While this won't affect the amount of income you receive from the mortgage, it will increase the amount of money that must be paid back when the home is sold, you move out or upon your death. Brian Mathews, vice president of residential lending at Ulster Savings Bank, agrees that Reverse Mortgages are not falling victim to the economic times. "The number of loans has dramatically increased this year, which points to not only a better understanding and acceptance of the product, but also the need for it." Who benefits most from a Reverse Mortgage? A Reverse Mortgage is ideal for those, like Todera and Warren, who know they want to remain in their home. Applicants must be at least 62 years old and own the home in which they are living (or have a low mortgage balance that can be paid off at the closing with the proceeds). Those who benefit most from this specialized loan are often in some way financially pressed, whether it is the result of limited work, growing bills or medical issues. Even if the prospective applicant has worked his or her entire life and has a decent pension, the Reverse Mortgage still might be the best way to go. It was for David Warren three years ago. "Having a 50-year-old house that I knew was going to need a lot of repairs, and knowing there was a certain level of entertainment I wanted to have access to in my life, I got the Reverse Mortgage as a safety valve," says Warren. "It also allowed me to maintain the lifestyle I had when I was working, helping me to get about 75 percent of what I was earning when I was working and giving me a much needed peace of mind." For 25 years Warren was a security hospital treatment assistant at Mid-Hudson Psychiatric Center in Middletown, retiring in January 2005. Active during his working years, Warren wanted to continue his regular habits of going out to dinner, seeing movies and plays, and traveling. The money received from a Reverse Mortgage allows homeowners like Warren to pay off bills, fix up the house or take a trip. Monies accrued from the mortgage can also simply supplement Social Security or a pension. The amount borrowed depends upon the borrower's age, the current interest rate, the appraised value of the home and the FHA (Federal Housing Administration) mortgage limits in the area. Homeowners don't need to worry about foreclosure or eviction for missed payments, either - they can remain in the home. "A lot of borrowers simply just can't make the payments anymore," says Marie Byrne, owner of Washingtonville's Sapphire Title and Settlement, which conducts title searches for Reverse Mortgages. "At the same time, they really want to remain in the place that is oftentimes their main investment." The Reverse Mortgage is not problem-free, however. Applicants need to consider the large amount of accrued interest on the loan and ensuing payoff should moving become necessary. "Often, the question is do you want to be strapped by your current financial situation, just getting by, or do you want to take equity out of what you have accumulated and make a better life for yourself," asks Byrne. Because choosing a Reverse Mortgage is such a complex and individual decision, it is best that the homeowner have some help sorting through the details. The federal government requires that homeowners receive mandatory counseling prior to signing any papers. "We have strict rules on counseling," says Brian Mathews of Ulster Savings Bank. "A potential borrower needs third party counseling and they go through extensive discussions to determine if this is the right product for them. It's an interesting time of tumult and people are questioning the credibility of any financial product, but we take great care in making sure it's the right thing to do." A lawyer can also be a key player in the process, helping translate some of the legal jargon and clarifying client's rights. Jennifer Warren is a freelance writer living in Orange County. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1167 Feature Stories http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1167 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT If you're tired of going the pharmaceutical route for every ache, pain and ailment, there are alternatives. Here are some examples of herbal alternatives to common ailments. Just remember to consult your doctor before taking any herbal medication. Ginger: For nausea, arthritis, motion sickness, bursitis, among other things. Black currant oil: For skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, Premenstrual Syndrome. Echinacea: Benefits the immune system and is good for treating cold and flu symptoms. Garlic: Is considered by some to be a natural anti-biotic and can be quite effective in treating symptoms of the common cold, fungal and yeast infections, and high blood pressure. Ginseng: Used to boost the immune system, lower blood glucose and control blood pressure. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1166 Feature Stories http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1166 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Your knee joints have been aching and the medication your doctor prescribed doesn't seem to be working. You've heard about herbal supplements that can boost joint strength, but you aren't sure if it's all just hype. It's no secret that the cost of health care is rising, and that despite higher insurance costs, many people find that their policies don't cover enough. It may be tempting to try an alternative remedy for cost effectiveness, not to mention avoid side effects often associated with prescription drugs. As opposed to a prescribed pharmaceutical drug, herbal supplements are natural, non-pharmaceutical, non-food substances marketed to improve health. They are regulated as dietary supplements, rather than as medicines, by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Currently, according to the FDA, manufacturers of dietary supplements are responsible for establishing their own guidelines to ensure that the supplements they produce are safe and contain the ingredients listed on the label. The FDA does not currently review or approve serving sizes, but leaves that decision to the manufacturer. The law does not require the FDA to approve the effectiveness of a dietary supplement before it reaches consumers. However, a manufacturer must not claim that its product treats or prevents a specific condition (so if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!). Which supplements are safe and which are not? So how can consumers know what's safe and effective and what's not? According to Richard Huntoon, DC, of the Alternative Medicine Center in Newburgh, "[Herbal supplements] are as effective [as pharmaceuticals] if they are the pure herb. If the herb has been changed in some way, it may lose its potency and effectiveness because of the way it's been altered. You want to find natural whole herbs and work with a practitioner who understands the specifics of how they react with your body." Whole herbs are natural products where no single ingredient is isolated and concentrated. Examples include cayenne, which promotes healthy digestion and circulation, and eucalyptus, which is said to help respiratory ailments. Clinical herbal practitioners and naturopaths are trained in the same diagnostic skills as orthodox doctors, but take a more holistic approach to illness. You may want to look at the Unified Register of Herbal Practitioners (www.urhp.com) for suggestions, as well as the American Holistic Medical Association site (www.holisticmedicine.org) and American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (www.naturopathic.org). The National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine warns, "It's important to know that just because an herbal supplement is labeled 'natural' does not mean it is safe or without any harmful effects. Herbal supplements can act in the same way as drugs. Therefore, they can cause medical problems if not used correctly or if taken in large amounts." Before combining products, it's best to seek advice from your doctor. "Whether it's safe to combine supplements would depend on the combination and on the person," says Huntoon, "since not everyone reacts in the same way." "There is a list of contraindications - conditions or factors that increase the risks involved in using a particular product - like if you're pregnant, nursing or very young," explains Kitty Sherpa, owner and manager of Beacon Natural Market. She adds that barring such contraindications, most supplements can be taken in combination, but the consumer also needs to be careful if they have a medical condition or are already taking prescription medications. The FDA also recommends that you consult your doctor if you intend to use a supplement in place of a drug, in combination with a drug, or before surgery, as effects could be adverse. "However," says Sherpa, "there's a much longer list of what's safe than what's not." Another concern may be that an herbal remedy could lose its power after usage over a period of time. "The more you consume," says Dr. Huntoon, "the more tolerance you develop, so dosages may change over time." Once you have consulted with your doctor and decided on a course of action, one glance at the shelves at the health store will tell you that there are a myriad of herbal options available; often there are several manufacturers for just one type of supplement. So how do you choose between one brand and another? Consumers are advised to buy only reputable brands, to get advice from their practitioner and to research before they buy. Consumer Reports has a large online database available on herbs and dietary supplements. Sherpa says that often the difference lies in which form a customer wants, whether it be capsule or liquid. "It's a matter of preference; sometimes people have a brand they've used that's worked and they stick to it."Whether or not your doctor will endorse an herbal supplement depends on the herb, your current health and your medical history. "Your practitioner should be able to explain why something is necessary or not necessary," says Dr. Huntoon. When 45-year-old Susan Kerr of Hopewell Junction was diagnosed with chronic hives five years ago, she was given a prescription by an allergy specialist for Zyrtec to ease the itching and inflammation of this allergic condition. "My doctor told me that until I figured out what I was allergic to - which would probably never happen because there were so many variables - I would have to stay on a regimen of prescription medication. The problem was, I was still getting hives. That's when I started looking into alternative medicines." By researching online and asking her chiropractor, who is knowledgeable about alternative treatments, Kerr learned that the herb quercetin is often used to treat allergic reactions. After taking the herb in pill form for a few weeks, Kerr found her symptoms had eased dramatically. She continues the daily regimen to this day. You may find that herbal remedies are an effective replacement for pharmaceuticals, or it may be that you will want to use a prescribed medicine but would also like to try dietary supplements. A happy alternative may be integrative medicine - a combination of mainstream and alternative medicine. If your doctor is unfamiliar or unwilling to step outside of mainstream medicine, while you'd like to explore alternative or integrative medicine further, you can ask him or her to refer you to a specialist who may know more about it. Rani Long is a freelance writer living in Putnam County. This is her first feature in Hudson Valley Life. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1165 Feature Stories http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1165 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Certainly it's not possible for everyone to adopt the lifestyle of Jonathan and Vicki Harkness. But everyone can do simple things to reduce their carbon footprints and conserve energy. Here are some of their suggestions to get started:  Reduce, reuse, recycle.   Mow your lawn less. Jonathan says the emissions from mowing a typical 1/3-acre plot is about equal to a round-trip jaunt to Washington, D.C., in an energy-efficient car. Grow at least some of your own food. It's amazing what an on-deck container garden can yield. Bring your own bags to stores. Buy in bulk when possible, saying "no" to all that packaging. Bring your water from home; avoid bottled water and Styro-foam cups. If you're building a new home, or better yet, renovating an old one, don't put all your money in aesthetics. Calculate the long-term payback of geothermal heat, solar power, high-quality energy- efficient windows, etc. For more tips from Jon Harkness, visit www.hvlifeonline.com http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1164 Feature Stories Going Green http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1164 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Jon Harkness' energy services firm, which he runs with his wife, Vicki, educates businesses and homeowners on renewables and energy efficiency. EBM - named for the Harknesses' first three dogs, Edgar, Beau and Missy - is contracted to do an energy audit for its commercial customers and make recommendations - be it cogeneration, boiler replacements, HVAC upgrades, windows, lighting, insulation or something far more technical, such as outsourced utility procurement contracts. "We look for ways to maximize energy savings, as well as environmental benefits whenever possible," says Jonathan. "We replace motors and pumps with high-efficiency units. We have energy management systems that anticipate building occupancy and weather conditions. "Many of the technologies that we implement have well-established track records," he says. "For instance, everyone thinks geothermal technology [where the higher temperatures below the Earth's surface are used to heat buildings] is new technology. We've been involved with that for 20 years. "Perhaps one of the good things about the economic turmoil is that we're being made more aware of what we've been doing. Rather than looking at a home as something to flip in two or three years - and it's inefficiencies are the next person's problems - maybe we're at the point of thinking collectively about what's right for society, what's right for our children," says Jonathan. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1163 Feature Stories Going Green http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1163 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Jonathan M. Harkness first began dabbling in energy-efficient old homes when he was just 11. "I built a replica of an old post-and-beam salt-box house," he says, onto which he wired on solar cells from one of his Radio Shack kits. He didn't know then that he was destined to live a life - and run a business - that reflect the principles that define him. Jonathan is not "green" because it's trendy. He's disappointed by the greed and waste resulting from wanton consumerism, and begs people to conserve energy and to think about their carbon footprints and landfill contributions. He and his wife, Vicki, and son Joshua live in a 1740s farmhouse - an ongoing renovation project that is the heart of Perry Hill Farm - in Amenia in Dutchess County. "Restoring old homes - rather than demolishing and hauling those pieces saturated with humanity and cultured history off to a landfill - is probably one of the 'greenest' things you can do," he says. Not only do their lives mirror the simpler days of yesteryear, but their farm is a thriving lesson in sustainable living. Neither Jonathan nor Vicki realized then that their corporate ladders would ultimately lead them home. "I grew up in a lot of places," says this 47-year-old minister's son, who considers Cornwall his "hometown" because the family spent more time there than anywhere else in the Northeast. He spent some time at Massa-chusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he was first accepted, while still a high-school student in Leominster, MA. It was there he sharpened his interest in architecture. Once he headed off to college at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, he decided to pursue a dual major - electrical and mechanical engineering - even though he remained intrigued by the structure and space of buildings. During his senior year an advisor urged him to take advantage of a self-directed course of study in England. Jonathan, who had no problem with self-motivation, used the opportunity to study science and English history at Cambridge University - helping to hone the Renaissance man that he is today. He returned to his last semester at RPI and a co-op position with Johnson Controls. "They started me in energy work," he says. "It evolved into examining the energy efficiency of fairly large buildings. I had an edge because of my earlier introduction into architecture - I understood the flow of people and their interaction with the structure's space." He had several employment offers upon graduation. However, it was Johnson's offer that he accepted, as it meshed well with his interest in buildings, technology and energy. He rented a room in a house-share in Granite Springs, near Yorktown Heights, in Westchester County. It was there he met Vicki, who graduated from West Virginia Institute of Technology with a degree in printing management. Vicki grew up in suburban Charleston and was the daughter of parents who were big lovers of the outdoors. She received an offer from Readers Digest, an offer that prompted her to pack her bags and head north. She had landed in the same house-share for professionals that Jonathan did. Vicki and Jonathan quickly became good friends. Johnson kept Jonathan busy with energy-management projects throughout the Northeast. He improved the energy efficiency of hospitals and schools - even the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan - offering money-saving and environmentally-conscious solutions. Having proved himself, he was relocated to a position with more responsibility in Rhode Island. He was the youngest branch manager Johnson Controls ever had. Shortly after taking this new position in 1988, Jonathan and Vicki were married. After being relocated to Massachusetts later that year, the couple purchased an 18th century home that they began renovating - skills that they would learn and employ again with their current home. Seven years after they were married, Jonathan was made an offer he couldn't refuse by a subsidiary of Kansas City Power and Light - although its CEO knew that he wouldn't have Jonathan in his employ for more than a year or two before he ventured out on his own. Jonathan knew this was an important transitional step, but before he took the leap, he went on a solo coast-to-coast bicycling trip first. "I left in 1995, after Thanksgiving. Vicki and my parents plotted my progress on a big map," Jonathan says. "For me, this was about living in a 'ride-west-young-man' moment." Forty-one days later, this romantic realized his dream. Proving to himself that he was not caught in some corporate machinery, he was ready to accept his next, and as predicted short-term, challenge. Using his skills to start a new business In 1997, armed with all he was and all he had learned, Jonathan was ready to move out onto his own, and EBM Consulting Services, Inc., based in Millbrook, was born. "Our mission has evolved," says Jonathan of EBM's role as a performance contractor, whose original role it was to help save companies' energy dollars. EBM - named for the Harknesses' first three dogs, Edgar, Beau and Missy - is contracted to do an energy audit for its commercial customers and make recommendations - be it cogeneration, boiler replacements, HVAC upgrades, windows, lighting, insulation or something far more technical, such as outsourced utility procurement contracts. "We look for ways to maximize energy savings, as well as environmental benefits whenever possible," says Jonathan. "We replace motors and pumps with high-efficiency units. We have energy management systems that anticipate building occupancy and weather conditions. "Many of the technologies that we implement have well-established track records," he continues. "For instance, everyone thinks geothermal technology [where the higher temperatures below the Earth's surface are used to heat buildings] is new technology," he says. "We've been involved with that for 20 years." As Jonathan was immersed in getting EBM up and running, Vicki was running back and forth to Manhattan. She left her position with Readers Digest and quickly began multi-tasking her way up the American Lung Association's corporate ladder. Then the events Sept. 11, 2001 unfolded. "I realized that there was more to life. I started thinking about if Jonathan was taken away," she says. "I would have many regrets." If there were any doubts, hesitations or misgivings, their son Joshua's birth in 2003 changed everything for both of them. "There's so much more to life," Vicki says. At the core of their life is their family - including the rescued farm animals, cats and dogs. Having resigned from her job in Manhattan in late 2001, Vicki now holds the title of president and CEO of EBM, with much of her involvement there behind the scenes so she is up front and center at home. Jonathan is vice president and chief operating officer. Jonathan and Vicki take turns in the barn at 6am, feeding the animals while Joshua sleeps. "We consume the eggs from our chickens, the raw milk from our cow. We harvest the wool from our sheep, but have it spun commercially," says Jonathan. "Vicki is knitting wool from our own animals. . Last year, a friend knitted a hat and sweater for Joshua. He ran to the barn and yelled, 'Thank you, sheep, for my Christmas present!'" Today, 15 of their farm's 59 acres are set aside for pasture and growing food. The other acreage offers plenty of opportunity for hiking and horseback riding. "Our animals eat local organic grain. We use their poop and bedding in the garden," she says. "I go to farmers' markets, co-ops and buy organic items such as kidneys beans and coffee in bulk from the United Foods Buying Club. I'm making my own vanilla from vanilla beans. I use a supermarket rarely . I get anxious around all that 'stuff.' Where is it going and where did it come from?" Perhaps the intense focus on home and hearth has subliminally affected EBM's mission, too. Jonathan was drawn to commercial work. He liked the black-and-white decisions that boards of directors would make. But many folks that came through their farm on the National Green Building Tour that the Harknesses hosted asked for help. "Initially, I thought that homeowners could present a new set of issues, with which we did not need to deal in light of our large institutional customers. However, their insistence that residential owners really needed help of our caliber convinced me to offer services to homeowners as well," says Jonathan. "I could understand their concerns, as I wouldn't want somebody putting solar panels on my 1700s farmhouse, either. . But because homes use 20 percent of the energy, the carbon footprints of homeowners will have to be part of the solution." Deborah Botti is a freelance writer living in Orange County. She is a regular contributor to Hudson Valley Life magazine. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1162 Feature Stories Going Green http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1162 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Bigger may seem better, but it isn't necessarily reality when it comes to housing these days. According to the American Institute of Architect's Home Design Trends Survey for the first quarter of 2008, "The downturn in the housing market, coupled with changing lifestyles, has produced a decline in the size of a typical home." So how do you make small spaces seem spectacular, or at least freshen up your current space? 1. Clear the clutter. According to Sharon Hibbard, owner of Interiors by Decorating Den in Goshen, there are several guidelines any homeowner can follow to create the illusion of more space. "A tidy area with everything neatly in place will always appear larger." That said, her number one request by clients is storage space. "People always have more 'stuff' than they have places to put it." Hibbard advises "one way to handle this is to furnish a room with pieces that build upward rather than outward. A tall bookcase or chest of drawers will accommodate just as much stuff as a lower, wider piece which has the same number of shelves or drawers; however, the taller piece will use less floor space." 2. Create more shelving. Another answer might be to build a few shelves in an existing closet. "Organized clutter is easier to deal with - and you might discover things that you forgot you even owned," Hibbard says. 3. Use multi-purpose furnishings. This is a creative way to add storage. For instance, find an ottoman that can open to store blankets or seasonal items. Drawers can be crafted on casters to slide under a bed to store extra shoes, clothing, or anything else. Hibbard advises clients to seriously consider the need to display anything that hasn't been touched in two years. Interior designer and lifestyle expert Frank Fontana agrees. "If you walk into a room and haven't sat on or used a piece of furniture in a year, get rid of it. Give it to Goodwill or sell it." 4. Use tricks of the eye to add illusion of space. To create the illusion of more height, Fontana suggests bringing curtains up almost to the ceiling. "This tricks the eye into thinking the room is taller or a window is bigger than it really is," says Fontana, host of HGTV's Design on a Dime. To add length to a room, Fontana suggests adding the visual line of a chair rail. "Another way is to create a focal wall at one end of a room. That can be done with a faux finish, accent paint color, artwork, or sculptures on either side of a piece of furniture." Fontana also likes to "zone" rooms into different areas to create the illusion of more space - or more spaces. He suggests using two smaller area rugs instead of one big one and using furnishings to create their own vignettes. For example, place two chairs with an end table at one end of a room. Set a sofa in the middle of a room - or studio apartment - to create a line that isn't there and give people an imaginary "threshold" to walk through. 5. Use color and lighting creatively. Amani Thorpe-Lee, design center manager at Ethan Allen in Nanuet, advocates a monochromatic or analogous color scheme. "Minimizing contrast is one effective way to create the illusion of more space." "When items blend seamlessly with one another and their surroundings, the eye has less to interpret and the room feels more open and less cluttered," says Thorpe-Lee. Fontana says he prefers dark colors; however, he and Hibbard agree that no matter what color you use, lighting in a room - either natural or artificial - is important to eliminate dark corners and shadows. 6. Pay attention to details. All three designers agree that scale also plays an important role in the illusion of space. "Do not overwhelm a space with oversized items or upholstery prints if attempting to make the room look bigger," says Thorpe-Lee. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1169 Feature Stories Home and Garden http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1169 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT While smaller spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms can present their own challenges, interior designer Frank Fontana says that many of the design principles used in larger rooms can apply here. In kitchens, he sees a preference by clients to scale back on the size of their appliances. Huge, restaurant-style stoves and refrigerators are being replaced by smaller, more energy-efficient models, he says. To create more functionality, he advocates counters, work spaces or even tables that fold down when not in use. In bathrooms, he advises keeping furnishings to a minimum. For instance a sleek sink - one with no cabinet underneath - with stylish fixtures is a good choice. For storage, he suggests using a nearby closet. Creating a focal wall gives style to both rooms. Fontana says that for bathrooms, he prefers ShimmerStone by Modern Masters. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1170 Feature Stories Home and Garden http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1170 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT My husband doesn't keep a pulse on hunting season, but he has mastered the art of hunting. When Greg planned to pamper me over a lunch date, hunting skills appeared as second nature to him. He went hunting... for a restaurant that could produce a great meal. He tracked a worthy location, one where the importance of food shares a balance with presentation and setting. On a blustery day, as we drove to the American Bounty restaurant at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, snow began to fall. We parked our car only a short walk from the restaurant, but still managed to arrive inside covered with wet snowflakes. Greg handed our dripping garments to the smiling attendant at coat check, soaking her hands. We approached the dining room entrance where a young, tousled-haired maitre d'-in-training greeted us. He asked if we had a reservation. We acknowledged that we did and he replied with "Okay." His trainer, a distinguished looking father figure, tapped him on the back and embellished the response: "Wonderful," he said, "and welcome! Please show this lovely couple to their table. Where's the finesse and schmoozing?" Draped in a crisp, white cloth, a scenic table for two waited by the window and another staff member showed us to it. A large wall of glass towered over an intimate courtyard filled with snow falling on evergreens. If the meal to follow could match the view, my husband was depositing enormous spouse credits (not that I was counting) into the reserves. We were seated in a narrow wing of the restaurant. Although guests were dining at every table, our waiters kept an attentive watch over us. One opened a bottle of sparkling water and left us alone to browse the menu. Greg ordered a glass of the MacMurray Ranch Pinot Noir and I tried the flight of red wines: two-ounce samplers of the MacMurray Ranch, Bedell Merlot and a Novelty Hill Syrah. Snow kept falling, and the thought of being hurried never entered our minds.  Bread makes a meal but this restaurant doesn't allow its guests to make a meal of their deluxe assortment. With dairy fresh butter on our table, we each selected a slice of baguette and a just-baked wheat roll, prepared only on weekends. For starters, Greg selected seared sea scallops served over a bed of spaghetti squash. Dripping with garlic butter, the scallops were generously smothered with toasted almonds. I most graciously accepted a taste. (I enjoyed my Hawaiian coconut crab soup, but it was no match for the scallops.) The baby beets on my arugula and fris�e salad were perfectly roasted and served with toasted hazelnuts and drunken goat cheese. I would definitely offer it to friends as well as heads of state. But once again, I couldn't take my eyes off of Greg's preference: the pan roasted marinated mushroom salad. The cleverly molded mushrooms with microgreens, walnuts, truffle oil and Gorgonzola cheese disappeared from his plate. My husband passed on the pasta but relented when I offered to share my order of homemade pumpkin ravioli. I could have easily finished this spice combination, prepared with sage cream and amaretti crumbs, without help. Our main courses were more closely matched, though Greg's braised short ribs, served with spaetzle and red cabbage, were the top pick for tenderness. The dish was embellished with just the right dusting of fresh horseradish. I realized that I wasn't the only one my husband intended to indulge that afternoon. He savored his serving of beef short ribs. The grilled lamb chops that I ordered medium-rare to medium were closer to medium and slightly warmer than I prefer, but lamb is a luxury any time in our family meal rotation, and I appreciated this variation with glazed Porcini mustard, fingerling potato salad and red wine sauce. We both ordered coffee, poured to our liking: hot, rich and black. And the desserts were delivered in one format: dressed to impress. I wouldn't order the volcano chocolate cake or the chocolate cr�me broul�e again. Why tamper with traditional cr�me brul�e? But the meticulously-rounded scoops of vanilla ice cream, rolled in graham cracker crumbs and drizzled with caramel, formed perfect petite snowballs as a fitting finish to the afternoon's snow and our near-perfect experience at the American Bounty Restaurant. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1171 Restaurants http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1171 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT I have been seeing a man who had lost his wife after a 37-year happy marriage. From this casual encounter a deep friendship evolved. During the first three months Ben often talked about his relationship with his late wife, sharing with me the sadness that was in him. As the months went by and his spirit slowly changed, he became more optimistic, more desirous of exploring how to build a new life. Ben began to ask me for advice on everything from managing a home to learning the current rules of dating. I felt kind of funny explaining to him that being more cautious in exploring sexuality was mandatory nowadays, especially since he had no clue about sexually transmitted diseases or the necessity of discussing HIV or herpes with a potential sexual partner. I assumed that Ben saw other women since our relationship never ventured into romantic territories. We enjoyed movies, musical events and weekly dinners and talks together. One evening, out of the blue, Ben suggested taking our relationship to a new, intimate level. I was truly taken aback. Having enjoyed our liaison as it was, I had not really anticipated becoming intimate partners. I didn't know what to say. Ben was sensitive to my silence, not trying to push me for an immediate decision. Some weeks later while having dinner, Ben seemed especially wistful. He said he really wasn't happy living alone. "I want to be with the woman I love every day. That's what makes me happy!" His words hit me like a ton of bricks. Had I denied him the opportunity to meet someone else? I heard his message clearly. That night I couldn't sleep. I examined the complex feelings I had for him. I clearly cared for Ben and liked him profoundly. I respected him and appreciated his values and many talents. I understood there were differences in our lifestyles but realized they could be overcome. Why couldn't I see myself involved with him sexually? The truth was that that drive and desire simply wasn't there. My feelings for him were of profound friendship but not love. I was both saddened and frightened at my recognition. I knew I owed him total honesty, so I was pained by the thought that admitting how I felt may hurt him. I also was frightened of losing our connection. The next morning I wrote him a letter in which I stated the truth and assured him that my deep commitment of friendship would never be broken. What I know is this: honesty between partners, even partners in friendship or partners in love, is fundamental to feeling right and doing right: feeling right about our own being and doing right by the people that count in our lives. Be honest. It can profoundly affect your life. Offering truth to one another can reverse long festering wrongs. It can diffuse the curtain of doubt and bring back trust. It can help estranged partners become close again and release the joy of life and love. It can make you feel really good about yourself. All it takes is the courage to look inward, deeply, and recognize the truth and own up to it. Understanding our true feelings can liberate us from emotional shackles and free our hearts to feel the happiness we deserve. Do you have a question for Jacqui? Write us at editor@excitingread.com and we'll pass it along. 3 books that can help The Relationship Cure: A 5 Step Guide to Strengthening Your Marriage, Family, and Friendships, by John Gottman Why Can't You Read My Mind? Overcoming the 9 Toxic Thought Patterns that Get in the Way of a Loving Relationship, by Jeffrey Bernstein and Susan Magee How to Be an Adult in Relationships: The Five Keys to Mindful Loving, by David Richo Jacqueline Brandwynne has worked in the health and beauty industry for more than 25 years and is creator of the Very Private line of products. Visit her at veryprivate.com. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1172 Very Private http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1172 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Dan recently lunched with a friend, Sean McCarron, a highly skilled financial planner. Sean related how he had been mesmerized by the gripping movie "Superman" and how much he had loved that series as a kid - and in fact he still does. Sean explained, "Times have changed. As a kid I wanted to fly like Superman. As a teenager, I wanted his X-ray vision. But as an adult, all I now want is his Fortress of Solitude." Our needs change over time, and although nobody likes change except wet babies, we ignore change at our peril. For example, tax and inheritance laws are constantly changing. This month's question is from a couple who are smart enough to perceive the need for change and to look for guidance in adapting appropriately. I'm 63, and my wife 58. We are both in good health. We have three children and want to treat them all alike in our wills. We have a farm that even in this down-turned market is valued at around $4.5 million. We each have Social Security income, and I make some money from renting part of our farm, where my wife and I have lived for more than 40 years. We have considered selling our farm now, so we can invest the net proceeds, after capital gains, in secure bonds, municipals and Treasury notes, in order to use the interest for living expenses as we age. When we are both gone, all of our money would then be divided equally among our three children. What is the best way to pass our assets to our children? You are in the same situation as many people who have seen once-modest farms and businesses slowly increase in value until they are now land wealthy. A best-selling book titled The Millionaire Next Door, by Thomas J. Stanley, details your situation, which we will paraphrase as "modest living with extraordinary wealth." With this wealth will come extra taxes for your kids, especially if you fail to act while you and your wife are living and in good health to make sound decisions. You should not sell your farm now in order to later divide your wealth evenly among your children. If you sell the farm now, you'll owe tax on any gains over $500,000 ($250,000 for single taxpayers). State and local taxes may apply as well. Instead, if you can, you should hold your farm until you and your wife die, and then it will pass income tax free to your children. When you and your wife die, your children will receive the farm at a stepped-up cost basis, which means, if they sell it then, there will be no capital gains tax due.Notice that above we said income tax free and not estate tax free. In 2008, each person has a $2 million exemption that allows him or her to pass that much money to his or her heirs estate tax free. If you have more than that, estate taxes apply and they are expensive. If you establish a revocable living trust now, you can preserve $2 million for yourself and $2 million for your spouse, effectively raising your exemption to $4 million. (However, in 2011, unless this law changes, this exemption reverts to $1 million.) You need professional guidance. Trusts are tricky, so find a good financial planner who can direct you to a good estate attorney and get your planning done sooner rather than later. Your kids will benefit for generations. Until next time, Your Money Matters, so treat it wisely. Dan Searles, CFP�, is a financial planner and a Registered Representative offering securities and advisory services through National Planning Corporation, member FINRA/SIPC, and a Registered Investment Adviser. Medallion Financial Group and NPC are separate and unrelated companies. *National Planning Corporation does not endorse the opinions expressed in this column. The information here is not to be considered as financial, tax or legal advice. As with any financial, tax or legal matter, consult your qualified adviser before taking action.  No investment strategy can ensure a profit or protect against a loss. As always, past performance is not indicative of future results. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1173 Money Matters http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1173 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT For going on 100 years, the Grand Ole Opry has been home to dozens of talented country music performers. Becoming a member is by invitation only, and while it might seem as if they're joining a double-secret club, the truth is that new inductees are being enfolded into a family. Re-live those moments with your favorite stars in the new book Behind the Grand Old Opry Curtain by Robert K. Oermann. This is one of those delicious tell-all books that will (mostly) please you with goodness in the end. The author will surprise you (who knew there was such a preponderance of car crashes among Opry members?), tell you things you didn't know (Charlie Pride was not the Opry's first African American member), and he discusses a few on-going mysteries (when, exactly, did Hank Williams die?). If you love country music, this book needs to be on your bookshelf. Pat your feet on out and get it. Reviewed by Terri Schlichenmeyer, also known as the Book Worm, who has been reading since she was 3 years old and never leaves home without a book. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1174 Page Turners http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1174 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Are you still stressed from the holidays? We have the perfect solution: treat yourself to a weekend getaway. You won't have to travel far! Here are five getaways, sure to cure your winter blues, that are no more than two hours away. Start packing for your perfect weekend of relaxation - you deserve it! http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1175 Cool Places * Hot Trips http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1175 Mon, 29 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT Nestled between the fabled Catskill Mountains and the majestic Hudson River sits a gem of a town in Ulster County: Saugerties. This quaint, picturesque town, once bustling with industry in the 18th century, is today a major tourist destination. Easily accessible via Exit 20 on the New York State Thruway, Saugerties is the site of festivals, shopping and historic sites galore. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1077 Cool Places * Hot Trips http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1077 Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT The tree-lined main artery of Millbrook offers an inviting collection of galleries, bookstores, eateries, and of course, antique shops. Known as hunt country among the equestrian crowd, this Dutchess County village has it all: horse farms, a quaint shopping district, a first-class winery - even a castle! But these are just a few reasons to visit Millbrook. Discover why you'll love Millbrook this weekend! http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1076 Cool Places * Hot Trips http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1076 Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT You've had the same kitchen since the kids were in diapers. The wall paint is looking a little drab, the linoleum is so scuffed you're embarassed to have company over for a visit, and that ceiling lamp circa 1985 has just got to go. Well, the kids are out of the house now and the kitchen is all yours. Here are some cool ideas for energy-efficient, easy-to-use appliances and a look that's top-of-the-line. For more details on all products mentioned here, visit excitingread.com. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1075 Home and Garden http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1075 Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Summer is all about grilling on the patio or just lounging in the shade on your deck with a glass of wine and a good book. If you love to be outdoors but prefer the shady comfort of your yard, you can find relief under an awning, patio umbrella or gazebos. If your patio is close to the house, you may want to consider an awning instead. Motorized retractables make it easy - with the click of a button - to open and close the awning. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1074 Home and Garden http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1074 Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT You look at your floor so much you almost stop paying attention to it, yet the right flooring can make all the difference in your home's look and feel. Whether you decide to warm up your rooms with carpet, keep them cool with tile or ceramic, or go "green" with bamboo, cork and other environmentally friendly woods, there is an entire world of flooring open to you. Here's the latest on what you'll find. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1073 Home and Garden http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1073 Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT The fall months aren't what immediately come to mind when we think about planting our gardens. But, according to Hudson Valley gardening pros, fall could very well be the best time to start digging in the dirt. The mild temperatures and fabulous foliage lend to ideal gardening conditions. "It's great working weather, and so dramatic and beautiful," says Eli Joseph-Hunter, yard manager and woody plant buyer at The Phantom Gardener in Rhinebeck. "The Northeast has a fall like nowhere else in the world. We need to take advantage of it. Get outside and have a blast." http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1072 Home and Garden http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1072 Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Your philosophy for living is reflected in your home's look. Are you going for elegant and formal, where comfort takes a back seat to style? Or do you want livable pieces that you could just melt into at the end of a long day? Whether you prefer Victorian, Mission or environmentally friendly furniture for your "green" home, there are styles to suit your home's look and feel. Hudson Valley home furnishing experts tell you what's hot and what's not for furnishing your home. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1071 Home and Garden http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1071 Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Whether you're building a new home or renovating the one you've lived in for 30 years, it's critical to consider your lighting needs first. "Lighting is the crowning glory of your house, and it's the most important part of decorating," says Barbara Vaughn, manager of Ulster Lighting Center in Kingston. Many homeowners think of lighting as secondary to the furnishings in a room, but, according to Vaughn, plans for lighting should be done in the early stages of building or redecorating. "In the 38 years we've been in business we try to educate that lighting should be done in the early stages," she says. "Most people buy furniture and work lighting around it." http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1070 Home and Garden http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1070 Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Are you sick of seeing the same old kinds of gifts and gadgets every year at holiday time? This year, take a drive off the beaten path and browse in some of the great independent shops in our communities. You'll find unique gifts that you just won't see in the Big Box stores, and chances are you'll get service with a smile. Here are a few cool things you'll discover at local stores in the Hudson Valley. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1069 Home and Garden http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1069 Tue, 27 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT The city of Hudson, named for 17th century explorer Henry Hudson, has undergone a renaissance. Chic shops, trendy restaurants and new businesses have breathed life into this former port town as buildings have been renovated and tourists seek out its antique shops and art galleries. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1068 Cool Places * Hot Trips http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1068 Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Beacon is one of the most walkable villages in the Hudson Valley. Its main strip is lined with original art galleries, funky antiques shops and stores, delightful restaurants offering foods from around the globe, and undoubtedly some of the coolest architecture in Dutchess County - where one could easily spend hours browsing, dining, oohing and aahing. So take a detour, right off Interstate 84, into the up-and-coming village of Beacon. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1067 Cool Places * Hot Trips http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1067 Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Take a step back from the flurry of everyday life and enjoy the slower pace of the Catskills. Hiking, fishing, antiquing and art gallery hopping are just a few of the reasons to make the cozy villages of Liberty, in central Sullivan County, and Roscoe, in the county's northern corner, your day-trip destinations. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1066 Cool Places * Hot Trips http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1066 Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT On the banks of the Hudson River the village of Nyack seems to be in a world of its own, inviting visitors to spend time drifting through upscale shops and dining at both fine and fun restaurants along its tree-lined streets. This very walkable village bustles with activity during its many craft and antiques festivals from April through October. Why else should you explore Nyack? http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1065 Cool Places * Hot Trips http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1065 Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Nestled along the Wallkill River and named for Revolutionary War General Richard Montgomery, the Village of Montgomery offers fantastic experiences in dining, antiquing, shopping or simply viewing thedowntown centre with its abundance of historic homes, churches, buildings and museums. The charm, friendly people and down-home atmosphere of this quaint village are just a small part of its allure. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1064 Cool Places * Hot Trips http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1064 Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT Nestled between the fabled Catskill Mountains and the majestic Hudson River sits a gem of a town in Ulster County: Saugerties. This quaint, picturesque town, once bustling with industry in the 18th century, is today a major tourist destination. Easily accessible via Exit 20 on the New York State Thruway, Saugerties is the site of festivals, shopping and historic sites galore. http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1063 Cool Places * Hot Trips http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1063 Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT The tree-lined main artery of Millbrook offers an inviting collection of galleries, bookstores, eateries, and of course, antique shops. Known as hunt country among the equestrian crowd, this Dutchess County village has it all: horse farms, a quaint shopping district, a first-class winery - even a castle! But these are just a few reasons to visit Millbrook. Discover why you'll love Millbrook this weekend! http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1062 Cool Places * Hot Trips http://www.hvlifeonline.com/articles/article.aspx?id=1062 Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT