11 Temmuz 2012 Çarşamba
10 Temmuz 2012 Salı
9 Temmuz 2012 Pazartesi
How Well Do You Know Your Partner?
To contact us Click HERE
photo: ashleyphotographer.net
When I first meet with couples,they presume that they’re interviewing me. And they are. However, what theydon’t realize is that I’m also interviewing them! I’m looking and listening for that “click,”that moment where I get who they are as a couple; where I get a glimpse intowhy they’re doing what they’re doing.
Sometimes, though, by the end ofour meeting, I’m puzzled. I don’t quiteunderstand them as a “couple.” Andthat’s okay as it would be remarkable if I did “get” every couple.
The following is a quiz of sorts,adapted from relationship guru, John Gottman: How well do you know your partner?
Here’s the thing, though: if thereare more questions you can’t answer than you can answer, then THE big question is––whyare you marrying someone you don’t know well?!
· Who are your partner's two closest friends?
· What is the most challenging stress your partneris wrestling with?
· What are the two things that easily irritateyour partner? Hopefully you’re not oneof them!
· What is your partner's life dream?
· How many credit cards does your partner have andhow much debt is on those cards?
· What is your partner’s most legitimate fearabout marrying you?
· How does your partner respect you?
· Why does your partner want to marry you?
· What aspect of your partner’s parents’ marriagedoes s/he not want to repeat?
· Who is your partner’s role model for marriedlife?
photo: ashleyphotographer.netWhen I first meet with couples,they presume that they’re interviewing me. And they are. However, what theydon’t realize is that I’m also interviewing them! I’m looking and listening for that “click,”that moment where I get who they are as a couple; where I get a glimpse intowhy they’re doing what they’re doing.
Sometimes, though, by the end ofour meeting, I’m puzzled. I don’t quiteunderstand them as a “couple.” Andthat’s okay as it would be remarkable if I did “get” every couple.
The following is a quiz of sorts,adapted from relationship guru, John Gottman: How well do you know your partner?
Here’s the thing, though: if thereare more questions you can’t answer than you can answer, then THE big question is––whyare you marrying someone you don’t know well?!
· Who are your partner's two closest friends?
· What is the most challenging stress your partneris wrestling with?
· What are the two things that easily irritateyour partner? Hopefully you’re not oneof them!
· What is your partner's life dream?
· How many credit cards does your partner have andhow much debt is on those cards?
· What is your partner’s most legitimate fearabout marrying you?
· How does your partner respect you?
· Why does your partner want to marry you?
· What aspect of your partner’s parents’ marriagedoes s/he not want to repeat?
· Who is your partner’s role model for marriedlife?
Do You Have Secrets?
To contact us Click HERE
photo: jesse leake
It was six weeks before theirwedding and Chad and Lisa still had not hired an officiant. Towards the end of our meeting, theconversation turned to Chad’s upcoming Vegas bachelor party weekend.
After Lisa humorously warned himthat nothing better happen, he reassured her with these immortal words: You have nothing to worry about. Nothing’sgoing to happen even if she goes into the bedroom with me.
She? Bedroom? I’m stunned as Lisa slapped him in the arm. Seems Chad’s boys told him that they’re goingto get him a stripper. He didn’t want astripper, but how could he tell them that? He didn’t want to ruin their fun and besides, it’s tradition!
By the time our conversation ended,I wasn’t even sure if Chad and Lisa were going to have a ceremony for me toofficiate!
Okay, so I get “it”—Chad wants topreserve his image with his boys, but at what cost? Although Lisa & Chad eventually invitedme to officiate their ceremony, I declined. Simply put, I thought they had too many unresolved issues with notenough communication skills in place.
I’ve frequently written here andelsewhere that communication is at the heart of your relationship. A cliché, I know, BUT it’s true!
That Lisa found out about Chad’splans while at a meeting to discuss the ceremony, speaks volumes about thequality of their conversations. That hewasn’t able to tell his supposed best friends what he wanted and did not want,speaks volumes about his ability to assert himself. And without being able to express what it isyour thinking, feeling, wanting, needing, it’s going to be hard to offer an “IDo” that is authentic, confident, and that expresses your willingness to DO allthat is implied in that “I Do.”
If you can’t be honest with yourpartner before your wedding day, there’s no reason to believe that you’ll beable to be honest the day after your wedding day.
Are there things you haven’t toldyour partner? Topics you’ve beenreluctant to bring up? What are youafraid of? Now’s the time to talk!
photo: jesse leakeIt was six weeks before theirwedding and Chad and Lisa still had not hired an officiant. Towards the end of our meeting, theconversation turned to Chad’s upcoming Vegas bachelor party weekend.
After Lisa humorously warned himthat nothing better happen, he reassured her with these immortal words: You have nothing to worry about. Nothing’sgoing to happen even if she goes into the bedroom with me.
She? Bedroom? I’m stunned as Lisa slapped him in the arm. Seems Chad’s boys told him that they’re goingto get him a stripper. He didn’t want astripper, but how could he tell them that? He didn’t want to ruin their fun and besides, it’s tradition!
By the time our conversation ended,I wasn’t even sure if Chad and Lisa were going to have a ceremony for me toofficiate!
Okay, so I get “it”—Chad wants topreserve his image with his boys, but at what cost? Although Lisa & Chad eventually invitedme to officiate their ceremony, I declined. Simply put, I thought they had too many unresolved issues with notenough communication skills in place.
I’ve frequently written here andelsewhere that communication is at the heart of your relationship. A cliché, I know, BUT it’s true!
That Lisa found out about Chad’splans while at a meeting to discuss the ceremony, speaks volumes about thequality of their conversations. That hewasn’t able to tell his supposed best friends what he wanted and did not want,speaks volumes about his ability to assert himself. And without being able to express what it isyour thinking, feeling, wanting, needing, it’s going to be hard to offer an “IDo” that is authentic, confident, and that expresses your willingness to DO allthat is implied in that “I Do.”
If you can’t be honest with yourpartner before your wedding day, there’s no reason to believe that you’ll beable to be honest the day after your wedding day.
Are there things you haven’t toldyour partner? Topics you’ve beenreluctant to bring up? What are youafraid of? Now’s the time to talk!
Turning Criticisms Into Complaints
To contact us Click HERE
In her book, FOR BETTER, Tara Parker-Pope, blogger for The New York Times WellSection, offers what I think is a critical insight into successful arguing.
She writes that marriage studiesshow that one of the main differences between a good fight and a bad fight iswhether it begins with a complaint or a criticism. For example, "I wish you went with me to see morevendors" (complaint) versus "Younever show any interest in planning this wedding. What's wrong with you?"(criticism).
The difference between a complaintand a criticism is often subtle, but the results are dramatic.
Criticizing and attacking yourpartner will only make them defensive. In turn, they’ll either shut-down or lash out.
A complaint lets your partner knowhow you feel as a result of the upsetting or disappointing behavior.
Of course, since 80% of what we payattention to is the non-verbal (tone of voice and facial expression) and only20% of what we pay attention to is the verbal, you want to make sure thatyou’re not yelling or using the tone of voice you’d take with a disobedientchild!
Think back on your last argument––did it begin with one of youcriticizing the other? Were you upsetmore with what your partner said or with how he or she said it?
In her book, FOR BETTER, Tara Parker-Pope, blogger for The New York Times WellSection, offers what I think is a critical insight into successful arguing.
She writes that marriage studiesshow that one of the main differences between a good fight and a bad fight iswhether it begins with a complaint or a criticism. For example, "I wish you went with me to see morevendors" (complaint) versus "Younever show any interest in planning this wedding. What's wrong with you?"(criticism).
The difference between a complaintand a criticism is often subtle, but the results are dramatic.
Criticizing and attacking yourpartner will only make them defensive. In turn, they’ll either shut-down or lash out.
A complaint lets your partner knowhow you feel as a result of the upsetting or disappointing behavior.
Of course, since 80% of what we payattention to is the non-verbal (tone of voice and facial expression) and only20% of what we pay attention to is the verbal, you want to make sure thatyou’re not yelling or using the tone of voice you’d take with a disobedientchild!
Think back on your last argument––did it begin with one of youcriticizing the other? Were you upsetmore with what your partner said or with how he or she said it?
Dealing With A Momzilla!
To contact us Click HERE
photo: jesse leakeSandy Malone, a guest blogger onthe Huffington Post Wedding Section, recently wrote about how not to let a“momzilla” ruin your wedding day. It’s a good posting and worth reading, in myopinion. However, the comments bridesleft especially fascinated me––many of who suggested that you not fight yourmom and let her have her way!
Well, although I’m not a bride, thatkind of advice makes me feel queasy. Ifyou let your mother trample on your vision for your wedding will she besatisfied and let you and your husband (wife) live in peace? I don’t think so. I think she eventually will go on to tell youhow to cook, keep house, and be a wife (or husband). And, then, when you have kids, I have nodoubt she’ll weigh in on your parenting techniques.
Here are some questions I think youand your partner need to talk about at the outset of your weddingplanning. These are issues you need toconsciously talk about and not take for granted.
The more clear you are in youranswers, the better you’ll be in containing your mother (or father) in theirefforts to hijack your day (and your married life):
photo: jesse leakeSandy Malone, a guest blogger onthe Huffington Post Wedding Section, recently wrote about how not to let a“momzilla” ruin your wedding day. It’s a good posting and worth reading, in myopinion. However, the comments bridesleft especially fascinated me––many of who suggested that you not fight yourmom and let her have her way!Well, although I’m not a bride, thatkind of advice makes me feel queasy. Ifyou let your mother trample on your vision for your wedding will she besatisfied and let you and your husband (wife) live in peace? I don’t think so. I think she eventually will go on to tell youhow to cook, keep house, and be a wife (or husband). And, then, when you have kids, I have nodoubt she’ll weigh in on your parenting techniques.
Here are some questions I think youand your partner need to talk about at the outset of your weddingplanning. These are issues you need toconsciously talk about and not take for granted.
The more clear you are in youranswers, the better you’ll be in containing your mother (or father) in theirefforts to hijack your day (and your married life):
- How do you deal with your parents? Revert to childhood? Become passive-aggressive? Argue heatedly? Other way?
- How do you express to them what you desire for the wedding?
- Are you able to explain why you want what you want?
- Is your wedding family-focused or-friend-focused? What are the implications for this?
- Have you asked family for specific help in any areas?
- What do you think are your parents’ obligations to you regarding the paying and planning of the wedding?
- How do you show your family thanks throughout the planning process?
- What are you willing/prepared to do if your parents do not go along with your ideas/wishes?
Love In All Its Ebb And Flow
To contact us Click HERE
photo: diana hendersonWhen you love someone, you do not love them all thetime, in exactly the same way, from moment to moment. It is an impossibility. It is even a lie to pretend to. And yet this is exactly what most of us demand. We have so little faith in the ebb and flow of life, of love, of relationships. We leap at the flow of the tide and resist in terrorit ebb. We are afraid it will never return.Anne Morrow Lindbergh
I’m intrigued and challenged bythis quote from the wife of legendary pioneer aviator Charles Lindbergh. Perhaps you are, too. . .
photo: diana hendersonWhen you love someone, you do not love them all thetime, in exactly the same way, from moment to moment. It is an impossibility. It is even a lie to pretend to. And yet this is exactly what most of us demand. We have so little faith in the ebb and flow of life, of love, of relationships. We leap at the flow of the tide and resist in terrorit ebb. We are afraid it will never return.Anne Morrow LindberghI’m intrigued and challenged bythis quote from the wife of legendary pioneer aviator Charles Lindbergh. Perhaps you are, too. . .
8 Temmuz 2012 Pazar
2011 LBI Nesting Update
To contact us Click HERE
Thanks to the many volunteers that attended our LBI Nest Watch 2011 Program on Sunday May 22. This is part of a nest relocation program scheduled for Long Beach Island at the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences (LBIF). The Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES), Drexel University, and LBIF are conducting a project to identify nests, mark nests, and move nests that may be in areas with a high possibility of human disturbance. Nests that need to be relocated, will be moved to a hatchery at the LBIF in Loveladies, NJ. There will be an additional volunteer training session once terrapin nesting is underway! Thanks Marc and Jane for their work on June 2. Nicole M. moved a nest from a construction area to the LBIF on June 4. On June 6, Marc and Jane moves two nests and found one nest with 20 eggs in a clutch! This is the new high mark for Barnegat Bay. Today, June 9, another nest was moved to the Foundation. John is helping a female terrapin hit by a car on June 7 and rescued by Dave. Thanks Dave! Stay tuned for the predator project on High Bar Harbor with Kathy!
June 18 was a busy day, the High Bar Harbor Tax Payers Association heard from me and Kathy about the LBIF Project and the threat of raccoon predators. Marc and Jane have been doing a great job in relocating nests and working with Dottie in Barnegat Light. There are eleven nests in the hatcheries at LBIF as of June 18.
As of June 24, there are 15 nests at the LBIF hatchery. On June 24, we marked 8 females that nested at High Bar Harbor, Barnegat Light, and North Beach. Thanks to Jane and Marc for their tireless efforts in Barnegat Light, and look for Kathy's terrapin nest predator prevention project at High Bar Harbor.
Next on the schedule is our hatchling watch at the Foundation and recovery of emerged terrapins for release back to the wild. Contact John if you would like to survey the hatchery at the LBIF to check for emerged hatchlings. Nest #1 and Nest #5had hatchlings on August 9 and 10! Nest #14 produced hatchlings on Friday August 11 and Sarah called to report more on August 13. We've had over 64 hatchlings as per August 20, 2011. We excavated several nests on August 25, 2011 in preparation of Hurricane Irene. Of five nests, we were able to rescue 14 hatchlings. Nests #30 and #31 contained eggs that looked good. All other nests were assessed and hatchlings removed at the LBIF. We had a volunteer recognition ceremony on October 11 at the MATES school (see photo above) and we thanked our tremendous volunteers for their time and dedication to the conservation of terrapins!
Contact Dr. John Wnek for more information (projectterrapin@gmail.com).
Check out the LBI Foundation of the Arts and Sciences Science Website http://www.lbifscience.org/ProjectTerrapin.htm
Thanks to the many volunteers that attended our LBI Nest Watch 2011 Program on Sunday May 22. This is part of a nest relocation program scheduled for Long Beach Island at the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences (LBIF). The Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES), Drexel University, and LBIF are conducting a project to identify nests, mark nests, and move nests that may be in areas with a high possibility of human disturbance. Nests that need to be relocated, will be moved to a hatchery at the LBIF in Loveladies, NJ. There will be an additional volunteer training session once terrapin nesting is underway! Thanks Marc and Jane for their work on June 2. Nicole M. moved a nest from a construction area to the LBIF on June 4. On June 6, Marc and Jane moves two nests and found one nest with 20 eggs in a clutch! This is the new high mark for Barnegat Bay. Today, June 9, another nest was moved to the Foundation. John is helping a female terrapin hit by a car on June 7 and rescued by Dave. Thanks Dave! Stay tuned for the predator project on High Bar Harbor with Kathy!
June 18 was a busy day, the High Bar Harbor Tax Payers Association heard from me and Kathy about the LBIF Project and the threat of raccoon predators. Marc and Jane have been doing a great job in relocating nests and working with Dottie in Barnegat Light. There are eleven nests in the hatcheries at LBIF as of June 18.
As of June 24, there are 15 nests at the LBIF hatchery. On June 24, we marked 8 females that nested at High Bar Harbor, Barnegat Light, and North Beach. Thanks to Jane and Marc for their tireless efforts in Barnegat Light, and look for Kathy's terrapin nest predator prevention project at High Bar Harbor.
Next on the schedule is our hatchling watch at the Foundation and recovery of emerged terrapins for release back to the wild. Contact John if you would like to survey the hatchery at the LBIF to check for emerged hatchlings. Nest #1 and Nest #5had hatchlings on August 9 and 10! Nest #14 produced hatchlings on Friday August 11 and Sarah called to report more on August 13. We've had over 64 hatchlings as per August 20, 2011. We excavated several nests on August 25, 2011 in preparation of Hurricane Irene. Of five nests, we were able to rescue 14 hatchlings. Nests #30 and #31 contained eggs that looked good. All other nests were assessed and hatchlings removed at the LBIF. We had a volunteer recognition ceremony on October 11 at the MATES school (see photo above) and we thanked our tremendous volunteers for their time and dedication to the conservation of terrapins!
Contact Dr. John Wnek for more information (projectterrapin@gmail.com).
Check out the LBI Foundation of the Arts and Sciences Science Website http://www.lbifscience.org/ProjectTerrapin.htm
Terrapins in the Shark River? Still unknown
To contact us Click HERE
There has been some discussion over the possibility of diamondback terrapins living in the Shark River. Shark River is located in Monmouth County, NJ; it is a relatively small and shallow estuarine basin with no data to support the presence of terrapins. This summer (July 2011), the Marine Academy of Technology & Environmental Science (MATES), Drexel University, and interns with Monmouth University's Urban Coast Institute will pilot a mark and recapture study to hopefully answer this question. We will be working the weeks of July 4, July 18, and July 25 to capture diamondback terrapins.
The first week of trapping was on the south branch of the Shark River basin. The tidal range is great with traps sitting well, then beached during low tide. We caught a large snapping turtle (pictured) close to Brighton Road on July 7. We will resume trapping on July 18 in the north where there is more promising terrapin habitat than in the southern branch.
The second trapping session produced no terrapins during week one (July 17), but we are now concentrating efforts in Shark River Hills off S. Riverside and East End Avenues. After a second full week of trapping, we failed to capture any terrapins in Musquash Cove. Here is what we can report for this project:
1. Not a single terrapin was spotted basking anywhere along the banks of the masrhes
2. Not a single sign of nesting or even predation on nests was observed
3. Not a single terrapin was spotted in the water (which is not the case at Island Beach where we see them frequently)
4. Although trappins produced a snapping turtle, no terrapins were captured using baited hoop traps (in 360 hours of trapping). Compared to Island Beach with 30 terrapins caught in 360 hours).
Therefore, we cannot say "terrapins are not in the Shark River:, however, if terrapins are present, it would be a small population to say the least. Thanks to the Monmouth University students who were dedicated and did an outstanding job this summer!
There has been some discussion over the possibility of diamondback terrapins living in the Shark River. Shark River is located in Monmouth County, NJ; it is a relatively small and shallow estuarine basin with no data to support the presence of terrapins. This summer (July 2011), the Marine Academy of Technology & Environmental Science (MATES), Drexel University, and interns with Monmouth University's Urban Coast Institute will pilot a mark and recapture study to hopefully answer this question. We will be working the weeks of July 4, July 18, and July 25 to capture diamondback terrapins.
The first week of trapping was on the south branch of the Shark River basin. The tidal range is great with traps sitting well, then beached during low tide. We caught a large snapping turtle (pictured) close to Brighton Road on July 7. We will resume trapping on July 18 in the north where there is more promising terrapin habitat than in the southern branch.
The second trapping session produced no terrapins during week one (July 17), but we are now concentrating efforts in Shark River Hills off S. Riverside and East End Avenues. After a second full week of trapping, we failed to capture any terrapins in Musquash Cove. Here is what we can report for this project:
1. Not a single terrapin was spotted basking anywhere along the banks of the masrhes
2. Not a single sign of nesting or even predation on nests was observed
3. Not a single terrapin was spotted in the water (which is not the case at Island Beach where we see them frequently)
4. Although trappins produced a snapping turtle, no terrapins were captured using baited hoop traps (in 360 hours of trapping). Compared to Island Beach with 30 terrapins caught in 360 hours).
Therefore, we cannot say "terrapins are not in the Shark River:, however, if terrapins are present, it would be a small population to say the least. Thanks to the Monmouth University students who were dedicated and did an outstanding job this summer!
2011 New Jersey Society for the Conservation of Diamondback Terrapins
To contact us Click HERE
This year, the NJ Society for the Conservation of Diamondback Terrapins recognized Mrs. Dottie Reynolds for her outstanding contribution to the protection of terrapins on Long Beach Island. Dottie lives in an area with a high terrapin nest density, and she assists with females crossing the roadway, keeping them and their future hatchlings out of harms way. Dottie has worked on the LBI terrapin project for the past two years, and is a tremendous supporter of terrapin conservation. When you think about terrapin conservation, you definitely mention Dottie Reynolds in that conversation, every time. Congratulations Dottie and thanks for being so dedicated.
This year, the NJ Society for the Conservation of Diamondback Terrapins recognized Mrs. Dottie Reynolds for her outstanding contribution to the protection of terrapins on Long Beach Island. Dottie lives in an area with a high terrapin nest density, and she assists with females crossing the roadway, keeping them and their future hatchlings out of harms way. Dottie has worked on the LBI terrapin project for the past two years, and is a tremendous supporter of terrapin conservation. When you think about terrapin conservation, you definitely mention Dottie Reynolds in that conversation, every time. Congratulations Dottie and thanks for being so dedicated.
Injured Terrapins in Barnegat Bay
To contact us Click HERE
For the past six summers, Earthwatch volunteers have been essential members of our team. Without volunteers, we would not be capable of trapping and processing the hundreds of diamondback terrapins that we capture each year in the Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge. One of the many important findings from our research is that we are catching more injured terrapins each year.
Typically, we go out in small motor boats in the morning to check or set turtle traps. We bring the captured terrapins back to our laboratory which we affectionately refer to as the Marine Station. In the Marine Station, we "process" the terrapins with the help of our Earthwatch volunteers. Basically, this means that we measure (mass and various shell lengths) and mark each individual terrapin with unique codes that allow us to recognize that specific terrapin in case we catch it again in the future. We also check each terrapin for the presence of new or healed injuries. We've been keeping a record of the presence and location of each injury for each individual terrapin since 2006. The most common injuries include missing limbs and shell damage to the carapace (top shell) or plastron (bottom shell). We also frequently capture terrapins with boat propeller injuries. These types of injuries are easy to identify due to the major damage to the carapace and plastron, and most times you can actually see a telltale slash mark through the terrapin.
The figure at the top of this post shows the frequency of major terrapin injury in the northern and the southern parts of the Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge over the past six years. Only major injuries are included here, and major injuries were considered to be missing limbs or major damage to the shell, head, or tail. When the Earthwatch project started in 2006, only 13% of the terrapins we captured had major injuries. However, we found that 23 to 24% of the terrapins captured this past summer had major injuries.
Terrapins can obtain injuries from natural and anthropogenic sources. Missing limbs are oftentimes attributed to land predators such as raccoons. Major shell damage tends to be due to anthropogenic (human-generated) impacts such as boat propellers or automobiles. There's not too much that we can do about natural causes of injuries; however, there are some steps we could take to decrease human-caused injuries. Partial or complete closures of some wildlife areas to boating may be necessary to protect terrapins from boat strike injuries. Boating speed limits could also be helpful, especially in sensitive areas such as near nesting beaches. In order to lessen the impact of human-generated injuries on the terrapin population in Barnegat Bay, we need to keep collecting data on terrapins and injury rates. If you want to help save the terrapins, please consider signing up for one of our Earthwatch expeditions. Earthwatch volunteers truly are indispensable members of our research team on the conservation of diamondback terrapins in Barnegat Bay, New Jersey.
For the past six summers, Earthwatch volunteers have been essential members of our team. Without volunteers, we would not be capable of trapping and processing the hundreds of diamondback terrapins that we capture each year in the Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge. One of the many important findings from our research is that we are catching more injured terrapins each year.Typically, we go out in small motor boats in the morning to check or set turtle traps. We bring the captured terrapins back to our laboratory which we affectionately refer to as the Marine Station. In the Marine Station, we "process" the terrapins with the help of our Earthwatch volunteers. Basically, this means that we measure (mass and various shell lengths) and mark each individual terrapin with unique codes that allow us to recognize that specific terrapin in case we catch it again in the future. We also check each terrapin for the presence of new or healed injuries. We've been keeping a record of the presence and location of each injury for each individual terrapin since 2006. The most common injuries include missing limbs and shell damage to the carapace (top shell) or plastron (bottom shell). We also frequently capture terrapins with boat propeller injuries. These types of injuries are easy to identify due to the major damage to the carapace and plastron, and most times you can actually see a telltale slash mark through the terrapin.
The figure at the top of this post shows the frequency of major terrapin injury in the northern and the southern parts of the Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge over the past six years. Only major injuries are included here, and major injuries were considered to be missing limbs or major damage to the shell, head, or tail. When the Earthwatch project started in 2006, only 13% of the terrapins we captured had major injuries. However, we found that 23 to 24% of the terrapins captured this past summer had major injuries.
Terrapins can obtain injuries from natural and anthropogenic sources. Missing limbs are oftentimes attributed to land predators such as raccoons. Major shell damage tends to be due to anthropogenic (human-generated) impacts such as boat propellers or automobiles. There's not too much that we can do about natural causes of injuries; however, there are some steps we could take to decrease human-caused injuries. Partial or complete closures of some wildlife areas to boating may be necessary to protect terrapins from boat strike injuries. Boating speed limits could also be helpful, especially in sensitive areas such as near nesting beaches. In order to lessen the impact of human-generated injuries on the terrapin population in Barnegat Bay, we need to keep collecting data on terrapins and injury rates. If you want to help save the terrapins, please consider signing up for one of our Earthwatch expeditions. Earthwatch volunteers truly are indispensable members of our research team on the conservation of diamondback terrapins in Barnegat Bay, New Jersey.
Earthwatch Board Members Visit our Site!
To contact us Click HERE
October 20, 2011 was a red-letter day in our research at Barnegat Bay. We had 50 very special visitors come to the Lighthouse Center - The Earthwatch Institute's Executive Board! While many of them have worked behind the scenes to help fund, implement, organize, and support our expeditions, it was very exciting for these board members to see what it is really like to be a volunteer on our project. Some board members were from the main Earthwatch headquarters in Boston, while others traveled from as far as Japan, England, and Brazil for this meeting!
We split into two large groups, with half of the group going out on the R.V. Peter Kilham for a tour of the bay, and half of the group going out in small boats to check traps. In the afternoon, we switched. We really lucked out on weather, and although it was windy, the sun was shining like a day on the bay in August! Because it was so late in the fall, water temperatures are not ideal for terrapins to be swimming around much so we did not expect to catch many in our traps. Low and behold, not only did the board members find terrapins, we caught two NEW captures in our hoop nets - a record for that time of year! You can see in this picture how thrilled everyone was to catch their very first terrapin:
Overall, the visit was incredibly successful, even beyond catching terrapins. It was a wonderful opportunity for the board members to see how all of their hard work pays off for the Earthwath volunteer's experience. In addition, it was neat for us, as scientists, to learn more about the organization behind Earthwatch, and put names with faces. Since, we've felt much more connected to our funding org., and some incredible collaborations have flourished.
We split into two large groups, with half of the group going out on the R.V. Peter Kilham for a tour of the bay, and half of the group going out in small boats to check traps. In the afternoon, we switched. We really lucked out on weather, and although it was windy, the sun was shining like a day on the bay in August! Because it was so late in the fall, water temperatures are not ideal for terrapins to be swimming around much so we did not expect to catch many in our traps. Low and behold, not only did the board members find terrapins, we caught two NEW captures in our hoop nets - a record for that time of year! You can see in this picture how thrilled everyone was to catch their very first terrapin:
Overall, the visit was incredibly successful, even beyond catching terrapins. It was a wonderful opportunity for the board members to see how all of their hard work pays off for the Earthwath volunteer's experience. In addition, it was neat for us, as scientists, to learn more about the organization behind Earthwatch, and put names with faces. Since, we've felt much more connected to our funding org., and some incredible collaborations have flourished.
7 Temmuz 2012 Cumartesi
Happy Turtle Day!
To contact us Click HERE
Can you spot the turtles in this picture?
Well, it seems like the terrapins living in the Lighthouse Center's canal knew it was their special day, and popped up for a visit/ bask! Thanks to Pola for this great picture!
Sure enough, it seems fitting that our first terrapin sighting of 2012 falls on World Turtle Day! Of course, every day is a reason to celebrate turtles, but here are five things you can keep in mind:
These are recommendations from American Tortoise Rescue. Mother Nature Network also wrote a great story about world turtle day which you can find here. Our friend the diamondback terrapin even got a cameo in the article!
World Turtle Day or not, we're very excited to see that Barnegat Bay's terrapins are ready for summer to begin. Soon enough we'll be finding them on nesting beaches (which also means they'll be crossing roads, so drive safely!) and collecting them in our traps. We hope you can come out and join us for what is sure to be a great field season:0)
Can you spot the turtles in this picture?Well, it seems like the terrapins living in the Lighthouse Center's canal knew it was their special day, and popped up for a visit/ bask! Thanks to Pola for this great picture!
Sure enough, it seems fitting that our first terrapin sighting of 2012 falls on World Turtle Day! Of course, every day is a reason to celebrate turtles, but here are five things you can keep in mind:
- Never buy a turtle from a pet shop, as it increases demand from the wild.
- Never remove turtles from the wild unless they are sick or injured.
- If a turtle is crossing a busy street, pick it up and send it in the same direction it was going — if you try to make it go back, it will turn right around again.
- Report cruelty or illegal sales of turtles to your local animal control shelter.
- Report the sale of any turtle of any kind less than four inches. This is illegal everywhere in the U.S.
These are recommendations from American Tortoise Rescue. Mother Nature Network also wrote a great story about world turtle day which you can find here. Our friend the diamondback terrapin even got a cameo in the article!
World Turtle Day or not, we're very excited to see that Barnegat Bay's terrapins are ready for summer to begin. Soon enough we'll be finding them on nesting beaches (which also means they'll be crossing roads, so drive safely!) and collecting them in our traps. We hope you can come out and join us for what is sure to be a great field season:0)
2012 Upcoming Events
To contact us Click HERE
The Summer Season is here and terrapins have started to nest in 2012..
Our first female landed and nested on N. Sedge Island at Barnegat Bay (code ACIW) on Saturday May 26 at 1:00 p.m.
The season has begun and here is what is happening...
The High Bar Terrapin Team (thanks John Crimi) have a great new hatchery and much nesting activity
We just completed the new hatchery at N. Sedge Island on June 2, 2012 (Thanks Tony Raniero)
We are reconditioning the hatchery at the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences
Long Beach Township just filled sand in an area at the LBIF that may be used by nesting females instead of "having to cross" the main boulevard
We just completed a terrapin nest site enhancement project on Cedar Run Dock Road (see picture below)!
Come out and check out our terrapin conservation display...
May 19, 2012 - Ocean Fun Day at Island Beach State Park (Was terrific with over 3000 visitors!)
June 3, 2012 - Barnegat Bay Festival - Island Height, NJ (It seemed that there were 1000's there)
June 9, 2012 - Thanks to all of you who participated in the training
July 6, 2012 - Barnegat Bay Green Day at the LBIF 11 a.m.
Aug. 22, 2012 - U.S. Coast Guard Open House - Barnegat Light, NJ 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Please contact projectterrapin@gmail.com for any inquiries.
.JPG)
Cedar Run Dock Road Terrapin Nesting Enhancement Project
Our first female landed and nested on N. Sedge Island at Barnegat Bay (code ACIW) on Saturday May 26 at 1:00 p.m.
The season has begun and here is what is happening...
The High Bar Terrapin Team (thanks John Crimi) have a great new hatchery and much nesting activity
We just completed the new hatchery at N. Sedge Island on June 2, 2012 (Thanks Tony Raniero)
We are reconditioning the hatchery at the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences
Long Beach Township just filled sand in an area at the LBIF that may be used by nesting females instead of "having to cross" the main boulevard
We just completed a terrapin nest site enhancement project on Cedar Run Dock Road (see picture below)!
Come out and check out our terrapin conservation display...
May 19, 2012 - Ocean Fun Day at Island Beach State Park (Was terrific with over 3000 visitors!)
June 3, 2012 - Barnegat Bay Festival - Island Height, NJ (It seemed that there were 1000's there)
June 9, 2012 - Thanks to all of you who participated in the training
July 6, 2012 - Barnegat Bay Green Day at the LBIF 11 a.m.
Aug. 22, 2012 - U.S. Coast Guard Open House - Barnegat Light, NJ 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Please contact projectterrapin@gmail.com for any inquiries.
Cedar Run Dock Road Terrapin Nesting Enhancement Project
Terrapin Conservation for 2012
To contact us Click HERE
Island Beach State Park Staff trained on June 19, 2012 with John from MATES Project Terrapin. They helped John to mark animals and to participate in a field activity, collecting terrapins (we captured one). The Nature Center houses two juvenile terrapins from IBSP for public education that are part of a headstart program through MATES Project Terrapin
Staff at Island Beach State Park along with John
during terrapin training session.
Thanks to the Garden Club of Long Beach Island for their generous donation of turtle crossing road signs for Barnegat Light and High Bar Harbor, to caution motorists of nesting female terrapins. Signs were installed in early June 2012.
Turtle crossing sign along Bayview at Barnegat Light Township
Thanks to a generous donation of time and materials from Fernando, an often "overrun" terrapin nesting area was transformed in May 2012 into a terrapin nesting area with reduced human impacts. Students from the Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES) Project Terrapin helped to plant dune grass to stabilize soil. Boulders were added to prevent vehicles from parking and trailering boats across the nesting area.
A before (left) and after (right) view of the nesting area. On the right, notice the sand mixed with gravel and tire tracks across the nesting area. On the right, the sand was raked and the site is less accessible by humans, providing nesting female terrapins with less human impacted nesting opportunities. 
Staff at Island Beach State Park along with Johnduring terrapin training session.
Thanks to the Garden Club of Long Beach Island for their generous donation of turtle crossing road signs for Barnegat Light and High Bar Harbor, to caution motorists of nesting female terrapins. Signs were installed in early June 2012.
Turtle crossing sign along Bayview at Barnegat Light TownshipThanks to a generous donation of time and materials from Fernando, an often "overrun" terrapin nesting area was transformed in May 2012 into a terrapin nesting area with reduced human impacts. Students from the Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES) Project Terrapin helped to plant dune grass to stabilize soil. Boulders were added to prevent vehicles from parking and trailering boats across the nesting area.
A before (left) and after (right) view of the nesting area. On the right, notice the sand mixed with gravel and tire tracks across the nesting area. On the right, the sand was raked and the site is less accessible by humans, providing nesting female terrapins with less human impacted nesting opportunities.
2012 Terrapin Nesting Season
To contact us Click HERE
June 22, 2012 we fitted three female terrapins with temperature and depth sensors to determine annual exposure in terms of temperatures and depths that a female would encounter at Barnegat Bay. We fitted old reliable, AHPW, along with BHIO and NPQW all funded by Exelon Energy Corporation. Nesting season is going very well with 26 known female nests and 6 nests from unknown females. This puts us at approximately 451 eggs protected as of June 22. I would like to thank our awesome interns and volunteers for their work...
Lauren, Jackie, Juliet, Ryan, Lisa, Dylan and Jillian! As of June 30, 2012, we are at 500 eggs and we outfitted terrapin AJVW with a logger (see picture below...). Her datalogger was sponsored by the students at Cedar Creek Elementary School in Lacey Township as part of their generous donation to Project Terrapin.
On Saturday May 26, our first female terrapin was captured on N. Sedge Island (code ACIW). On Wednesday May 30, we found our first nest and marked two more female terrapins. We welcome Lauren Cruz from the University of Delaware as a summer student researcher (see below). Lauren is studying the effects of coastal upwelling events and how the reduced temperatures brought on by upwelling may impact nesting frequency. We have a new hatchery on the Island as well! On June 2, our familiar nester, code AHPW, came back to the Island for her tenth consecutive year. We hope to see her in two weeks to fit her with a temperature and depth datalogger to determine what conditions she is exposed for a year. We also had a female terrapin nest June 3 that was 2007 grams! The largest ever measured on N. Sedge Island!
See our new hatchery below... Thanks Tony Raniero for the easy access design and look!
Lauren Cruz installing a "human traffic counter" as part of her terrapin nesting study on N. Sedge Island
Lauren, Jackie, Juliet, Ryan, Lisa, Dylan and Jillian! As of June 30, 2012, we are at 500 eggs and we outfitted terrapin AJVW with a logger (see picture below...). Her datalogger was sponsored by the students at Cedar Creek Elementary School in Lacey Township as part of their generous donation to Project Terrapin.
 |
| Terrapin code AJVW with transmitter on back left carapace |
On Saturday May 26, our first female terrapin was captured on N. Sedge Island (code ACIW). On Wednesday May 30, we found our first nest and marked two more female terrapins. We welcome Lauren Cruz from the University of Delaware as a summer student researcher (see below). Lauren is studying the effects of coastal upwelling events and how the reduced temperatures brought on by upwelling may impact nesting frequency. We have a new hatchery on the Island as well! On June 2, our familiar nester, code AHPW, came back to the Island for her tenth consecutive year. We hope to see her in two weeks to fit her with a temperature and depth datalogger to determine what conditions she is exposed for a year. We also had a female terrapin nest June 3 that was 2007 grams! The largest ever measured on N. Sedge Island!
See our new hatchery below... Thanks Tony Raniero for the easy access design and look!
Lauren Cruz installing a "human traffic counter" as part of her terrapin nesting study on N. Sedge Island
2012 LBI Nesting Project
To contact us Click HERE
Kathy and her High Bar and Barnegat Light Team are working very hard this season. They've saved over 700eggs as of June 30 2012. See below for the latest nest that is being protected on site! There are 15 sites protected outside of the hatchery! Thanks to the Crimi's for the addition of a 2nd hatchery.
We will continue our project at the LBI Foundation and also at High Bar Harbor. The goal is to protect terrapin nests from negative human impacts. Kathy aided by her dedicated team of volunteers already moved over 16 nests from heavily trafficked areas to the hatchery - just June 3, 2012!
Kathy is locating a terrapin nest on LBI with the aid of Grace
A new hatchery was installed by some very dedicated volunteers (thanks to John Crimi for all of his hard work and generous support) working under the direction of Kathy Lacey. This is part of the LBI/ High Bar Harbor Conservation Program.
Here are some goals on Long Beach Island...
1) Assess and log terrapin nests with little, to no, impact on the female terrapins
2) Possibly relocate nests in areas with high human traffice (walking and cars)
3) Conduct a mark and recapture study of nesting female terrapins (after they nest)
4) Maintain hatcheries at the LBI Foundation in Loveladies and High Bar Harbor
5) Promote awareness and stewardship of terrapins and Barnegat Bay, NJ
.jpg)
We will continue our project at the LBI Foundation and also at High Bar Harbor. The goal is to protect terrapin nests from negative human impacts. Kathy aided by her dedicated team of volunteers already moved over 16 nests from heavily trafficked areas to the hatchery - just June 3, 2012!
Kathy is locating a terrapin nest on LBI with the aid of GraceA new hatchery was installed by some very dedicated volunteers (thanks to John Crimi for all of his hard work and generous support) working under the direction of Kathy Lacey. This is part of the LBI/ High Bar Harbor Conservation Program.
Here are some goals on Long Beach Island...
1) Assess and log terrapin nests with little, to no, impact on the female terrapins
2) Possibly relocate nests in areas with high human traffice (walking and cars)
3) Conduct a mark and recapture study of nesting female terrapins (after they nest)
4) Maintain hatcheries at the LBI Foundation in Loveladies and High Bar Harbor
5) Promote awareness and stewardship of terrapins and Barnegat Bay, NJ
5 Temmuz 2012 Perşembe
Custom New Home Communities
To contact us Click HERE
It is important to seek out new home communities that not only fit your financial budget, but to also ensure that the homes were built with efficiency in mind. Affordably built new homes are available and many of these homes did not sacrifice quality and efficiency in order to be very affordable. There are also many enticing incentives on these new homes because of the competitively of the market. In many cases these homes are made much more affordable than older homes.
One of the benefits of a new home community is that you will not have to worry about foreclosures bringing down the value of your home. Where every house around you is new, and just moved into or is still for sale, you will tend to see properties hold their value more. Another great benefit of these Custom Homes Maryland is that they are built to modern standard, and have efficiency and the environment in mind with the construction of every house.
There are also many different floor plans and sizes, including prices, that will fit any families needs.
Many things a potential homeowner is looking at with a new home are how it was built. Some people expect a house that is for sale for fewer than 200,000 dollars was built cheaply, and did not have efficiency in mind. This is simply not true. Studies have shown that these newer homes are much more efficient than older homes that are for sale at a comparable price. Another benefit is the recent green movement will ensure that your home was built with the environment in mind, keeping its carbon footprint low with every home built. There are many benefits to custom homes that people like. Large kitchens, nice sunrooms, and features like these only come with a custom built home that is on the market.
Why settle for the same old average house, that has been used and worn over the years, when you can purchase a brand new custom home in a community that is filled with other nicely built, custom homes at the same price.
Families should really look into the market for new homes rather than older homes because it will save them money on the price, the living costs, and the house will typically last much longer because of how well it was built. You do not need to spend an astronomical amount of money to live in a nice custom home, all you need to do is look at what the market has to offer.
Landmark homes PA
Article Source: http://lifestyle.ezinemark.com/custom-new-home-communities-16cb7b2a40f.html
It is important to seek out new home communities that not only fit your financial budget, but to also ensure that the homes were built with efficiency in mind. Affordably built new homes are available and many of these homes did not sacrifice quality and efficiency in order to be very affordable. There are also many enticing incentives on these new homes because of the competitively of the market. In many cases these homes are made much more affordable than older homes.One of the benefits of a new home community is that you will not have to worry about foreclosures bringing down the value of your home. Where every house around you is new, and just moved into or is still for sale, you will tend to see properties hold their value more. Another great benefit of these Custom Homes Maryland is that they are built to modern standard, and have efficiency and the environment in mind with the construction of every house.
There are also many different floor plans and sizes, including prices, that will fit any families needs.
Many things a potential homeowner is looking at with a new home are how it was built. Some people expect a house that is for sale for fewer than 200,000 dollars was built cheaply, and did not have efficiency in mind. This is simply not true. Studies have shown that these newer homes are much more efficient than older homes that are for sale at a comparable price. Another benefit is the recent green movement will ensure that your home was built with the environment in mind, keeping its carbon footprint low with every home built. There are many benefits to custom homes that people like. Large kitchens, nice sunrooms, and features like these only come with a custom built home that is on the market.
Why settle for the same old average house, that has been used and worn over the years, when you can purchase a brand new custom home in a community that is filled with other nicely built, custom homes at the same price.
Families should really look into the market for new homes rather than older homes because it will save them money on the price, the living costs, and the house will typically last much longer because of how well it was built. You do not need to spend an astronomical amount of money to live in a nice custom home, all you need to do is look at what the market has to offer.
Landmark homes PA
Article Source: http://lifestyle.ezinemark.com/custom-new-home-communities-16cb7b2a40f.html
Jersey Shore Beach Rentals
To contact us Click HERE
New Jersey Shore real estate has a competitive rental market. Every summer, the state's 127 mile coast line draws in thousands of tourists looking for a place to stay. For travelers visiting these beautiful beaches, a hotel is no longer the only option for your stay. Jersey Shore rentals, specifically Wildwood, NJ vacation rentals, are growing in popularity. The reasons for their popularity are both obvious and numerous.
Space
Wildwood Crest vacation rentals and other Jersey Shore summer rentals offer customers something that hotels and resorts do not: space. When buying or purchasing a home, one of the biggest concerns is space. No one wants a home where they feel crowded or confined. Why confine yourself to a single hotel room while on vacation? Vacation rentals are also great for large parties or families traveling together because you can decide what size rental you require based upon the number of people in your party.
Privacy
Motels often lack the privacy that many vacationers desire.
Rented rooms at a hotel share common areas with one another. This includes hallways, lobbies, and recreation areas. In order to have any privacy or secluded relaxation, guests must remain locked inside your room. A vacation rental affords much greater privacy.
Freedom
Many hotels enforce a strict set of rules and regulations they expect all guest to respect. The following is a short list of common hotel policies.
• No Pets
• No Smoking
• Quiet Hours from 10:00pm-7:00am
• No Guests Past 10:00pm
• Varying Dress Codes
These regulations are designed to make every guest's stay more pleasant, but they impose limitations that can make a stay go from relaxing to restricting.
Policies like dress codes and quiet hours are practically unheard of in a vacation rental because of the increased privacy and seclusion.
Many beaches offer apartments, townhouses, and homes for rent every summer. Wildwood, New Jersey is no exception. Summer rentals offer benefits that many hotels and resorts don't. A large part of the appeal to renting a residence as opposed to a hotel room is the increased space, privacy and freedom. Wildwood, NJ realtors can help you find the perfect vacation rental. Before booking a hotel for your beach trip this year, consider a Wildwood, NJ summer rental.
Surf City NJ Rentals
New Jersey Shore real estate has a competitive rental market. Every summer, the state's 127 mile coast line draws in thousands of tourists looking for a place to stay. For travelers visiting these beautiful beaches, a hotel is no longer the only option for your stay. Jersey Shore rentals, specifically Wildwood, NJ vacation rentals, are growing in popularity. The reasons for their popularity are both obvious and numerous.
Space
Wildwood Crest vacation rentals and other Jersey Shore summer rentals offer customers something that hotels and resorts do not: space. When buying or purchasing a home, one of the biggest concerns is space. No one wants a home where they feel crowded or confined. Why confine yourself to a single hotel room while on vacation? Vacation rentals are also great for large parties or families traveling together because you can decide what size rental you require based upon the number of people in your party.
Privacy
Motels often lack the privacy that many vacationers desire.
Rented rooms at a hotel share common areas with one another. This includes hallways, lobbies, and recreation areas. In order to have any privacy or secluded relaxation, guests must remain locked inside your room. A vacation rental affords much greater privacy.
Freedom
Many hotels enforce a strict set of rules and regulations they expect all guest to respect. The following is a short list of common hotel policies.
• No Pets
• No Smoking
• Quiet Hours from 10:00pm-7:00am
• No Guests Past 10:00pm
• Varying Dress Codes
These regulations are designed to make every guest's stay more pleasant, but they impose limitations that can make a stay go from relaxing to restricting.
Policies like dress codes and quiet hours are practically unheard of in a vacation rental because of the increased privacy and seclusion.
Many beaches offer apartments, townhouses, and homes for rent every summer. Wildwood, New Jersey is no exception. Summer rentals offer benefits that many hotels and resorts don't. A large part of the appeal to renting a residence as opposed to a hotel room is the increased space, privacy and freedom. Wildwood, NJ realtors can help you find the perfect vacation rental. Before booking a hotel for your beach trip this year, consider a Wildwood, NJ summer rental.
Surf City NJ Rentals
Cut the Costs of Home Construction
To contact us Click HERE
Building a home is a huge task that requires a detailed plan to create a budget that meets your needs. Paying attention to the details, creating a good plan and completing a few do-it-yourself projects will cut the costs of home construction. Analyze your material selections and choose which items are necessities and which you can eliminate or scale back.
Instructions
Building a home is a huge task that requires a detailed plan to create a budget that meets your needs. Paying attention to the details, creating a good plan and completing a few do-it-yourself projects will cut the costs of home construction. Analyze your material selections and choose which items are necessities and which you can eliminate or scale back.
Instructions
- Choose a lot that is ready to build without extra costs. Avoid lots that do not have sewer, water or electric available. Check the landscaping of the lot and choose one that does not require extra retaining walls or tree removal.
- Design a home with simple lines. Avoid designs that have arches, cathedral ceilings and multiple peaks on the roof. Plan a home that is comfortable in size. Avoid building large homes that have unused space and rooms.
- Design a two-story house to save money on the foundation and plumbing. Plan an attached garage with an unfinished bonus room above it for future expansion. Plan to rough in the basement for future plumbing and finishing.
- Choose cabinetry that comes in standard sizes. Use manmade countertop materials instead of natural stone such as granite.
- Recycle materials when building the home. Choose recycled doors, windows, fireplace, lighting or other products that fit the design of the home.
- Plan to install energy efficient furnaces and appliances. These may cost more upfront, but they provide savings over time.
- Plan to do some of the projects yourself. Paint and stain the woodwork. Do the landscaping yourself after you move in.
- Hire a professional designer and architect to avoid mistakes. Make a detailed plan and select materials before visiting the designer. Research your product selections for price and durability. Discuss with the designer and architect your plan and revise as necessary. Ask the designer for ways in which you could cut costs.
- Plan to interview several home builders before hiring a construction contractor. Check their references and ask if the builder came in on budget for their project. Look for builders that do quality work and have a good reputation. Builders who are efficient and do good quality work will save you money.
Business Plan for Green Home Building
To contact us Click HERE
The Department of Commerce estimates that 116 million homes, apartments and condos were operational in 2006. American home builders built 172,000 residences in 2006 that qualified as energy-efficient properties, which was a mere 12 percent of the new homes constructed that year. As old homes and apartments begin to deteriorate, property owners will look to rebuild and renovate with green materials to reduce energy usage. Before you enter the green home building field, you need to write a business plan that addresses concerns about financing, qualifications and long-term vision by prospective investors. An accurate business plan may not assure success in green home building, but it is necessary to stay competitive in this growing field.
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Copies of loan applications
Building, plumbing and contractor licenses
The Department of Commerce estimates that 116 million homes, apartments and condos were operational in 2006. American home builders built 172,000 residences in 2006 that qualified as energy-efficient properties, which was a mere 12 percent of the new homes constructed that year. As old homes and apartments begin to deteriorate, property owners will look to rebuild and renovate with green materials to reduce energy usage. Before you enter the green home building field, you need to write a business plan that addresses concerns about financing, qualifications and long-term vision by prospective investors. An accurate business plan may not assure success in green home building, but it is necessary to stay competitive in this growing field.
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Copies of loan applications
Building, plumbing and contractor licenses
- Craft a mission statement for your green home building business plan. Your mission statement should be a 1- to 2-sentence description of your company's primary goal in the building industry. For example, a home builder that specializes in solar paneling can state in his mission statement that he wants to offer affordable panels to businesses and homeowners in the surrounding county.
- Generate a list of your green home building company's operational activities for your business description. Cite original home building, consulting, additions, renovations, landscaping and other activities in a 1-page description of your activities.
- Consult with a marketing agency on a marketing plan for your green home building business. Your marketing plan should start with a list of target outlets for your advertisements, including hardware stores, university extension offices and tree nurseries. A marketing agency can produce samples of posters, coupons and newspaper inserts that match your company's image.
- Conduct market research on your competition, target demographic and area population in your business plan. Investigate home builders, architectural firms and contractors that offer green building services in your region. Look at the ages, income levels and urban/suburban breakdown of prospective clients to determine which clients are likely to seek your services.
- Explain your personnel needs in your green home building plan as part of your financial summary. In addition to listing starting personnel and salaries, list full-time and part-time personnel that will be needed for green building projects in the next five years. Bolster the personnel section of your business plan by noting payroll increases for contractors and summer workers.
- Research costs for front-end loaders, hand packers and pickup truckers in your business plan's equipment inventory. Your business plan must point out per unit costs for green building supplies like composite siding, solar panels and wind turbines to demonstrate your green bona fides. Complete your equipment inventory by pointing out monthly costs for fuel and equipment maintenance.
- Account for startup financing in your business plan completely to show your financial need. Create a detailed ledger of cash on hand, revolving credit lines and savings dedicated to your green home building company. Prospective investors will be more likely to invest their money if they see your company's principals have put up some of their assets.
- Highlight loans, venture capital and investments pending approval as part of your company's business plan. Attach copies of loan applications and correspondence with venture capitalists to your plan as documentation of potential startup funding.
- Combine your green home building company's initial expenses with your startup funding to create a long-term balance sheet. Compound costs for vehicle maintenance, building supplies, wages and building rental over three years to show minimum financial requirements. Produce an actual balance sheet to account for exiting startup capital as well as balance projections assuming infusions of venture capital and loans.
- Finish your green home building business plan by writing the introduction and table of contents. Your introduction should be a 1-page document that hypes your company's commitment to green building materials and processes as well as your desire to become a community leader. Match page numbers from your marketing plan, equipment inventory and other sections to the table of contents to complete your plan.
3 Tricks to Find a New Home in Your Preferred Location
To contact us Click HERE
It has always been a huge hassle to find ideal new homes. Whether you want to buy or rent a home, it’s tough to find one that suits your budget and meets all your demands. You have to take into consideration numerous factors and ensure that what you invest in will be beneficial for the future. You need to plan out on a lot of stuff such as a strong budget, the suitable area and even the kind of home that you want to have. House hunting is a tough process and here are three essential tips to help you out with it.
1. Start Off with Financial Planning
House hunting can only start if you have a strong budget in hand. Even if you rent a home, you will need to have the required lease amount or down payment. Your paycheck must be enough to cover living expenses while also covering the rent amount. If you don’t start off with financial planning, it would be very difficult for you to find a suitable home. If you’re deciding on buying a house, then you need to have a down payment as well as a good credit score. Depending on your available budget, you can then start looking out for a house a location that suits your wallet.
2. Decide on the Type of Home You Want
To make house hunting easier, decide on the type of home that you want. You should be able to figure out what kind of house would complement your lifestyle. Do you want to live in a modular house or do you want to a custom built house? What are your family requirements and want kind of location are you looking for? These questions will help you categorize the kind of house you want thus enabling you to search efficiently.
3. Opt for an Experienced Real Estate Agent
While on a house hunt, you would need the assistance of a real estate agent. They would no doubt charge you a service fee, but at the end of the day it’s worth the effort. Not only will the real estate agent help you in finding an ideal new home, they will also eliminate basic problems you would face while searching for a house. Along with that, they can also be a valuable source of information for all your legal and real estate queries. Searching for a new house may be a daunting task, but if you draft out a detailed plan and get on the appropriate sources, you can manage it well.
Country Living, Custom Built Homes Lancaster County
It has always been a huge hassle to find ideal new homes. Whether you want to buy or rent a home, it’s tough to find one that suits your budget and meets all your demands. You have to take into consideration numerous factors and ensure that what you invest in will be beneficial for the future. You need to plan out on a lot of stuff such as a strong budget, the suitable area and even the kind of home that you want to have. House hunting is a tough process and here are three essential tips to help you out with it. 1. Start Off with Financial Planning
House hunting can only start if you have a strong budget in hand. Even if you rent a home, you will need to have the required lease amount or down payment. Your paycheck must be enough to cover living expenses while also covering the rent amount. If you don’t start off with financial planning, it would be very difficult for you to find a suitable home. If you’re deciding on buying a house, then you need to have a down payment as well as a good credit score. Depending on your available budget, you can then start looking out for a house a location that suits your wallet.
2. Decide on the Type of Home You Want
To make house hunting easier, decide on the type of home that you want. You should be able to figure out what kind of house would complement your lifestyle. Do you want to live in a modular house or do you want to a custom built house? What are your family requirements and want kind of location are you looking for? These questions will help you categorize the kind of house you want thus enabling you to search efficiently.
3. Opt for an Experienced Real Estate Agent
While on a house hunt, you would need the assistance of a real estate agent. They would no doubt charge you a service fee, but at the end of the day it’s worth the effort. Not only will the real estate agent help you in finding an ideal new home, they will also eliminate basic problems you would face while searching for a house. Along with that, they can also be a valuable source of information for all your legal and real estate queries. Searching for a new house may be a daunting task, but if you draft out a detailed plan and get on the appropriate sources, you can manage it well.
Country Living, Custom Built Homes Lancaster County
4 Temmuz 2012 Çarşamba
Creating An Energy Efficient Home
To contact us Click HERE
Improving the value of your home goes deeper than decorating ideas. Many homeowners believe that installing new floors, faucets, and repainting will increase the value of their homes. However, they overlook the big picture.
As governments are forced to improve emissions and environmental waste, municipalities are forcing new home builders PA to build environmentally friendly homes. In fact, in England, many municipalities will soon force all homeowners to replace their old, fuel wasting, polluting appliances and heating systems with new environmentally friendly systems.
In many cases, an environmentally friendly home is also healthier. Many people find that their breathing improves and the incidences of flu are reduced after creating an environmentally friendly home.
The first to an eco friendly and healthier home is to replace duct work, heating, and cooling systems with new, energy efficient, and low emission, equipment. This may include using a corn burning furnace instead of a wood fireplace, replacing electric with solar water heaters, or water heaters that heat water as its needed, and updating the furnace to a new energy efficient model.
Energy efficient models should be used in tandem with electronic timers that turn them on when needed, and more importantly, turn them off to eliminate waste.
This is only half of the battle. The next step is to caulk every crack, install vapor barriers, and install new energy efficient doors and windows. This should be done at least a year before the sale of a home so that you can show potential homeowners the low heating bills.
As homeowners become more health conscious they pay more attention to lighting and ventilation. Many homeowners are looking for Feng Shui elements in their homes. They also want to find natural venting. In old homes, venting and windows were placed where they were in balance with the room, or convenient.
Today's windows are placed to maximize natural light, and take advantage of solar heating. This applies to vents too. There is no reason why a room's vents must be confined to windows. Good venting removes contaminants from a room, and can reduce the need for air conditioners. They also reduce the hazard of mold and mildew build-up.
Of course, saving receipts that prove reused and recycled products were used in the new construction is an invaluable way to add green value to a home. While a person may not buy a home because recycled products were used in the constructions, it does validate the environmentally friendly and energy efficient aspects of the home.
Energy efficient lighting is an often overlooked part of creating an energy efficient home. It is important to use properly installed, and properly laid out lighting.
If you are building a new home, then start from the ground up. Find a local architecture who is familiar with energy efficient designs. Many people don't realize that the placement of rooms and halls can dramatically increase, or reduce, the heating and cooling needs of a home.
Every State has a department dedicated to helping homeowners improve the energy efficient and green value of their home. Taking advantage of their advice will improve the value of your home today, and in the future.
Article Source: http://www.articlecube.com/Article/Creating-An-Energy-Efficient-Home/104387
Improving the value of your home goes deeper than decorating ideas. Many homeowners believe that installing new floors, faucets, and repainting will increase the value of their homes. However, they overlook the big picture.
As governments are forced to improve emissions and environmental waste, municipalities are forcing new home builders PA to build environmentally friendly homes. In fact, in England, many municipalities will soon force all homeowners to replace their old, fuel wasting, polluting appliances and heating systems with new environmentally friendly systems.
In many cases, an environmentally friendly home is also healthier. Many people find that their breathing improves and the incidences of flu are reduced after creating an environmentally friendly home.
The first to an eco friendly and healthier home is to replace duct work, heating, and cooling systems with new, energy efficient, and low emission, equipment. This may include using a corn burning furnace instead of a wood fireplace, replacing electric with solar water heaters, or water heaters that heat water as its needed, and updating the furnace to a new energy efficient model.
Energy efficient models should be used in tandem with electronic timers that turn them on when needed, and more importantly, turn them off to eliminate waste.
This is only half of the battle. The next step is to caulk every crack, install vapor barriers, and install new energy efficient doors and windows. This should be done at least a year before the sale of a home so that you can show potential homeowners the low heating bills.
As homeowners become more health conscious they pay more attention to lighting and ventilation. Many homeowners are looking for Feng Shui elements in their homes. They also want to find natural venting. In old homes, venting and windows were placed where they were in balance with the room, or convenient.
Today's windows are placed to maximize natural light, and take advantage of solar heating. This applies to vents too. There is no reason why a room's vents must be confined to windows. Good venting removes contaminants from a room, and can reduce the need for air conditioners. They also reduce the hazard of mold and mildew build-up.
Of course, saving receipts that prove reused and recycled products were used in the new construction is an invaluable way to add green value to a home. While a person may not buy a home because recycled products were used in the constructions, it does validate the environmentally friendly and energy efficient aspects of the home.
Energy efficient lighting is an often overlooked part of creating an energy efficient home. It is important to use properly installed, and properly laid out lighting.
If you are building a new home, then start from the ground up. Find a local architecture who is familiar with energy efficient designs. Many people don't realize that the placement of rooms and halls can dramatically increase, or reduce, the heating and cooling needs of a home.
Every State has a department dedicated to helping homeowners improve the energy efficient and green value of their home. Taking advantage of their advice will improve the value of your home today, and in the future.
Article Source: http://www.articlecube.com/Article/Creating-An-Energy-Efficient-Home/104387
To Purchase Or Use Home Builders: That Is The Question
To contact us Click HERE
Making the decision to purchase a home can be tough considering the state of the economy right now. Everyday while tons of Americans are going belly up on their homes and defaulting on their mortgages, it can make the dream of owning your own home seem like it I never going to come true. While that may be a reality for some people, it does not have to be yours. You can still live the dream of owning your own home stress free and not have to worry about whether or not it is something you will be able to afford years from now. Instead of buying a home that is already built and may have been previously lived in, why don't you hire some home builders PA to build you the home of your dreams.
The benefits of building your home from the ground up greatly outweigh those of buying or renting a home that already exists. When you use home builders to construct your dream house, you don't have to worry about having to spend tons of time trying to locate a place that is what you envision in your mind. Finding your perfect home that already exists can take weeks, months and even a few years; especially if you are trying to stay within a certain budget. When you add in the fact that you still have to wait on the bank's approval and seller's acceptance of your offer, it can make the whole process of having your own place feel like you are pulling your own teeth. If you want to avoid being discouraged and still remain optimistic about providing a new place for you and your family to live, contact your local home builders and meet with them to discuss your options.
It is not the end of the world, if you have been denied the luxury of owning your home by getting a mortgage. Who knows, that rejection could have been a gift horse to you. Now that you know that you will not be buying someone else's previous place of residence, you can have a home built that is customized by you. Anything that you want to be in your home will be done to your specifications and you don't have to worry about making any renovations later.
If you already own your home and are looking to have some renovations done to bring your home up to code or to increase the property value, hiring a qualified home builders PA to help you make the changes you want.
Instead of taking on a big DIY project and creating a mess, losing time and possible causing damage to your home, call your local group of home builders and have them tackle the task of remodeling your home. If you want to feel more actively involved in the remodeling of your home but you are not mechanically inclined, keep the lines of communication open with the building company that is in charge of renovating your home.
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/To-Purchase-or-Use-Home-Builders-That-is-the-Question/2933350
Making the decision to purchase a home can be tough considering the state of the economy right now. Everyday while tons of Americans are going belly up on their homes and defaulting on their mortgages, it can make the dream of owning your own home seem like it I never going to come true. While that may be a reality for some people, it does not have to be yours. You can still live the dream of owning your own home stress free and not have to worry about whether or not it is something you will be able to afford years from now. Instead of buying a home that is already built and may have been previously lived in, why don't you hire some home builders PA to build you the home of your dreams.
The benefits of building your home from the ground up greatly outweigh those of buying or renting a home that already exists. When you use home builders to construct your dream house, you don't have to worry about having to spend tons of time trying to locate a place that is what you envision in your mind. Finding your perfect home that already exists can take weeks, months and even a few years; especially if you are trying to stay within a certain budget. When you add in the fact that you still have to wait on the bank's approval and seller's acceptance of your offer, it can make the whole process of having your own place feel like you are pulling your own teeth. If you want to avoid being discouraged and still remain optimistic about providing a new place for you and your family to live, contact your local home builders and meet with them to discuss your options.
It is not the end of the world, if you have been denied the luxury of owning your home by getting a mortgage. Who knows, that rejection could have been a gift horse to you. Now that you know that you will not be buying someone else's previous place of residence, you can have a home built that is customized by you. Anything that you want to be in your home will be done to your specifications and you don't have to worry about making any renovations later.
If you already own your home and are looking to have some renovations done to bring your home up to code or to increase the property value, hiring a qualified home builders PA to help you make the changes you want.
Instead of taking on a big DIY project and creating a mess, losing time and possible causing damage to your home, call your local group of home builders and have them tackle the task of remodeling your home. If you want to feel more actively involved in the remodeling of your home but you are not mechanically inclined, keep the lines of communication open with the building company that is in charge of renovating your home.
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/To-Purchase-or-Use-Home-Builders-That-is-the-Question/2933350
Kaydol:
Yorumlar (Atom)