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About 360 MAGAZINE
HHF × JOHN LEWIS
The Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) today announced that the late U.S. Representative and Civil Rights Leader John Lewis will be honored with a special Recognition as an Ally for his work in fighting for justice and equality for all communities including Latinos through a tribute musical performance during the October 6th PBS broadcast of the 33rd Annual Hispanic Heritage Awards.
“The Hispanic Heritage Foundation is proud to recognize the legacy of our compadre John Lewis, a true champion of civil rights for all our communities,” said Jose Antonio Tijerino, President & CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation. “The Congressman was a passionate friend and champion of the Latino community through his courage, morality, decency, fire, action and collaboration for justice and human rights. He was ready to speak – no, shout – on behalf of the voiceless or the ignored including the immigrant community. The Congressman indefatigably supported Latinos by fighting for comprehensive immigration reform, denouncing family separations, and trying to ensure our right to vote. The Congressman will continue to serve as an inspiration to anyone who is in la lucha for justice and how our communities can make an even bigger impact when we work together.”
The Hispanic Heritage Awards are among the highest honors by Latinos for Latinos and are considered “America’s Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration” after being established in 1988 to commemorate the creation of Hispanic Heritage Month in America by the White House. Linda Ronstadt (Legend), Bad Bunny (Vision), Selena Gomez (Arts), Jessica Alba (Business), and America’s essential farmworkers (Heroes) will be awarded.
“The Congressional Black Caucus is known as the ‘Conscience of the Congress’ but John Lewis was known as the conscience of our caucus,” said Congressional Black Caucus Chairwoman Karen Bass (D-CA). “One of the greatest honors of serving in Congress was that I had the possibility of serving with him. His legacy to our country is that he devoted his life fighting racism and injustice wherever he confronted it, from boycotts, sit-ins, to protests in the streets, to championing bold, progressive policies in Congress including the Voting Rights Act, and being a moral compass. Mr. Lewis also led the effort to build the African American History Museum and when we visit the museum, this is another opportunity for us to always remember him and what he stood for. Now that he is no longer with us, we have to live up to his legacy and protect the right to vote for all Americans. As we continue to face the challenges due to coronavirus, we must protect our democracy even in the midst of adversity. Most especially in this election.”
John Lewis was an iconic civil rights leader who served in the U.S. House of Representatives for Georgia’s 5th congressional district from 1987 until his passing on July 17th in 2020. He was also the chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) 1963 – 1966.
Mr. Lewis was one of the “Big Six” leaders of groups who organized the 1963 March on Washington. He fulfilled many key roles in the civil rights movement and its actions to end legalized racial segregation in the United States. In 1965, Mr. Lewis led the first of three Selma to Montgomery marches across the Edmund Pettus Bridge. In an incident which became known as Bloody Sunday, state troopers and police attacked the marchers, including Mr. Lewis. He was a leader of the Democratic Party in the U.S. House of Representatives, serving from 1991 as a Chief Deputy Whip and from 2003 as Senior Chief Deputy Whip. Mr. Lewis received many honorary degrees and awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
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About the Hispanic Heritage Foundation
The Hispanic Heritage Awards serve as a launch of HHF’s year-round, innovative, high-impact, actionable programs focused on education, workforce, leadership and culture. HHF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For more information, visit www.hispanicheritage.org and follow the Hispanic Heritage Foundation on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
7 Things to Know Before Using an Auto Transport Service
At some point in your lifetime, you’ll find yourself in need of auto transport services. You could be moving your car or motorcycle from one state to another. In other cases, you may need to ship your vehicle overseas for an extended vacation or work retreat. Instead of grappling with shipping yourself and coordinating tedious logistics, trust the experts at Guardian Auto Transport to oversee the process.
If this is the first time hiring an auto transport company to ship your vehicle, there are a few things you should know before scheduling your pickup date.
What insurance coverage is offered?
Ensure that the auto transport of your choice offers sufficient insurance coverage for the items you are shipping. Be wary of companies that offer low shipping costs and compromise on insurance. Your automobile is one of the most treasured possessions, and you won’t want to gamble with its safety.
Even though your car is insured, your current insurance plan may not be comprehensive enough when crossing state borders. Ensure your shipping company provides adequate insurance coverage that will protect your vehicle from unsightly chips or dents or other catastrophic roadside accidents.
For optimal safety, request a copy of their insurance documents to better understand the extent of coverage. If you aren’t satisfied with the current level, ask them to adjust it upwards. It will cost you a bit more, but it’s well worth the investment, as you won’t have to worry about financially-devastating damage that could potentially drain your bank account. When it comes to your automobile, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Do I need to prepare my car for shipment?
Are you seeking auto transport services to transport your car? Do you know how to prepare your vehicle before shipping? If you identify as a clueless first-timer, below are some vital pointers to keep in mind:
- Wash your car: A clean car will make any scratches and scrapes visible to the owner. Once you’ve spotted these blemishes, you can document them accordingly.
- Disable any alarm systems of your car
- Empty personal belongings from the car
- Leave minimal gas in the car
- Lock your car
- Inspect for any leaks or damages before shipping
- Ensure it has a valid license
Adequate preparation expedites the shipping process tremendously and saves you from unnecessary delays. Some vehicle owners might be operating under a tight deadline, making timeliness all the more vital.
How much will it cost to ship?
The first question a majority of customers usually ask is: How much will it cost me to ship? Unfortunately, it’s not a simple yes-or-no question that representatives can answer in a few seconds. Instead, pricing shipping depends on a multitude of factors. The transportation costs calculator allows you to estimate the cost of shipping goods from one location to another based on factors such as distance, weight, mode of transport, and shipping speed. Some factors bound to influence the total shipping cost include the following:
- Size and weight of your vehicle
- Distance to be covered
- Time of the year (prices tend to increase in the summer due to increased demand)
- Make and model of your car (Note: classic and luxurious vehicles tend to cost more)
- Method used (whether open, enclosed, or expedited auto transport)
Is you shipping provider registered?
Safeguard yourself from scams. Ensure that the auto transport company of your choice is registered by the Department of Transportation. A registered company has an active USDOT and MC number. You can verify the validity of these numbers with the US Department of Transportation.
To prevent rip-offs, use caution when dealing with brokers. These professionals bear no responsibility for your shipment and will not feel obligated to maintain your vehicle’s pristine condition.
For those beginners, you’ll need to be able to distinguish between shipping companies and brokers. Unlike shipping companies, brokers don’t have a USDOT number. They only hold an MC number. Requesting their USDOT number is an easy way to differentiate between the two.
Do I need any documentation?
Always have the correct documentation in your possession when shipping your car. At a minimum, you’ll need to have your car insurance certificate and registration documents on-hand. To be on the safe side, confer with your auto transport company and ask about the paperwork you’ll need beforehand.
How long does it take to ship?
The duration of shipping depends on the distance covered and the method of transportation. Your auto transport company should advise you on the likely duration of shipping. A company that values its customers should promptly communicate when faced with unexpected delays for customer satisfaction guaranteed.
How do I make payment?
Consult with your shipping company and inquire about the modes of payment they accept. Some don’t accept checks. Other shipping providers don’t like cash, as it is risky and burdensome to the driver to carry on-the-go.
You may be wondering: Should I pay in full before shipping? The payment requirements and deposits will differ from one company to another. However, it’s advisable to choose a company that bills you only after dispatching a carrier for your shipping order. Remember, a trustworthy auto shipping provider will never charge you for a quote. If they request payment upfront, consider looking elsewhere for auto transportation services.
Final thoughts
Failure to complete the necessary steps associated with the shipping process may result in additional charges or costly damages. To guarantee quality customer service interactions and a seamless shipping process, scan through online reviews posted by former customers. These customer testimonials or negative reviews can point you in the direction of a reliable auto transport company.
Bruce Springsteen × AARP
Music legend Bruce Springsteen, known for hits including “Born To Run,” “Thunder Road,” and “Badlands,” as well as five decades of exhilarating live performances, is making an exciting return to his native genre with a new rock album, “Letter To You,” releasing Oct. 23. The 71-year-old welcomed AARP The Magazine to his New Jersey farmhouse overlooking 378 acres of beautiful horse country, for a socially distanced conversation on his career, family, marriage, friendships, new album and more.
With 20 GRAMMYs, two Golden Globes, a Tony Award, an Oscar, inductions into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and more than 150 million records sold worldwide, Bruce Springsteen is a music icon. In his 20th studio album, “Letter To You,” the esteemed songwriter and the E Street Band make a powerful return to rock ‘n’ roll with 12 new tracks that touch on the great mysteries of life and death, the shedding of past lives, the passage of time and looking forward.
The following are excerpts from ATM’s October/November 2020 cover story featuring Bruce Springsteen, written by Editor in Chief Bob Love. The issue is available in homes starting in October and available online now at www.aarp.org/magazine/.
On his return to writing rock and roll songs:
“It’s part of the anxiety and mystery of the job that I do – which is a magic trick, because you take something out of the air that isn’t there… You can go for long periods without picking up anything significant. Or you’ll just pick up different things. It’s like you’re in a mine and one vein has gone dry, so you tap into another. A pop vein or a folk vein, and so you start working there. … But because I am primarily a rock ‘n’ roll musician when I’m operating sort of at my peak—I like to…every once in a while, come up with some rock songs.”
On his long career:
“I heard something of mine from 1975 on a record the other day, and I said, ‘That was about seven or eight lives ago. It was a full and entire life of its own.’ And I lived that one, and it was a great one, and now I’m living another one. I lived a life where we raised our children. That life is gone now. Now Patti and I are living another life. So, you live a lot of lives over the course of your one life.”
On loss of loved ones:
“So, this idea is you don’t lose everything when someone dies. You do lose their physical presence, but their physical presence is not all of them, and it never was all of them, even when they were alive. Spirit is very strong. Emotion is very strong. Their energy is very strong. And a lot of this, particularly for people who are very powerful, really carries over after death. It’s like my friend George passes away and leaves me with all of these songs. Clarence passes away and leaves me with these songs. Danny passes away, leaves me with these songs. And what are songs but dreams, at the end of the day? It really is all my dreams that I put down on paper and on tape.”
On finding inspiration in today’s economic climate:
“You have your antenna out. You’re just walking through the world and you’re picking up these signals of emotions and spirit and history and events, today’s events and past remembrances. These things you divine from the air are all intangible elements: spirit, emotion, history. These are the tools of the songwriter’s trade before he even picks up the pen.”
On recording new album, “Letter To You”:
“We spent one week in the studio—five days—and cut the entire record. It was all live, no overdub vocals and just a few overdub instruments. It’s the first truly live, in-the-studio record of the band we’ve ever made.”
On self-care and therapy:
“The talking cure—it works. But you’ve got to commit yourself to a process. And I was pretty good at doing that. I enjoyed the investigative examination of issues in my life that I didn’t understand. I learned a lot and therefore was able to exploit what I had learned and turn it into a real life.”
On his post-pandemic plans:
“All I can tell you is, when this experience is over, I am going to throw the wildest party you’ve ever seen. And you, my friends, are all invited.”
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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation’s largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.
Elkhart Lake WI
By Elle Grant x Vaughn Lowery
As summer winds down and fall arrives, many find themselves itching for one last summer getaway, or rather, that first autumn weekend away. 360 Magazine was able to take advantage of such a trip, visiting Wisconsin’s Elkhart Lake this past September. Located in the heart of Kettle Moraine State Forest, Elkhart Lake is the ideal natural getaway, being home to lake activities as well as canopied hiking and biking trails.
Elkhart Lake, located on the east side of Wisconsin, is both a stunning sojourn into nature and also a historical destination. With a population just under 1000, the village maintains a cozy quality, with local shops, restaurants, and activities maintaining a small-town, yet polished feel. Yet during the summertime, the town swells and comes to life. First inhabited by the Potawatomi Indians, the name Elkhart stems from the description Native people had of the area that the lake resembled the shape of an elk’s heart. Native American culture can easily be explored in the area through local tours and at the Henschel’s Indian Museum. Elkhart Lake is also a significant historical destination in terms of its relationship to racing, reaching its peak in the mid 1950s.
Our stay at the Shore Club was nothing short of superb. The new owners, Tom and Kristin Pagel, have done an incredible job renovating the hotel. Renovations include adding updated technology to enhance guest stays such as Netflix, Alexa, a digital concierge through the Whisper app, and luxury motor sports for those interested. Peloton bikes will soon be available for the additional fitness convenience of guests. Furthermore, the site also boasts an indoor pool, a game room with ping pong tables and vintage arcade games, and a gym. For those interested in seeing Elkhart Lake on two wheels, free bikes are available for guest use at the front desk. The restaurant on-site, the Cottonwood Social, offered consistently well-done meals, including the perfect weekend brunch.
We began our lake escape with a pontoon cruise on the namesake of the area, Elkhart Lake. Before departing, we sipped and snacked on the Osthoff’s signature cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. On the pontoon boat, we were able to view the lake’s crystal-clear lake waters and receive a tour that included information of the area’s history, legends, and folklore. The evening air aboard the boat made this the perfect way to begin a stay. Following the pontoon ride, dinner at the Osthoff Resort’s newest restaurant, Concourse Restaurant and Lounge, proved to be a unique culinary experience. With specialties such as honey balsamic trout, seared scallops with sweet pea risotto, and veal schnitzel with pickled cucumber relish, there was a delicious and refined option for every set of tastebuds. The restaurant’s décor, a tribute to the area and Osthoff’s vintage racing roots, also deserves special note.
Elkhart Lake is famed for its historic roots as a racing circuit in the 1950s. During this decade, the village of Elkhart Lake transformed into an open-road race circuit where top sports car drivers traveled from all around the world to take on the unique terrain. Likewise, thousands of fans were drawn to the area, eager to see the athletes and vehicles alike. The racing today is focused at Road America. The historic circuit is marked with signs denoting Wacker’s Wend, Kimberly’s Korner, and Dicken’s Ditch. This auto focused tour of the area isn’t to be missed. Road America also offers an opportunity to join in on the fun with options such as go-karting and ATVs at this world-acclaimed facility.
Road America and Elkhart Lake are famous as one of the oldest, largest, and most iconic tracks in the world. Currently, its original course is registered on the National Register of Historical Places, emphasizing its significance. Gaining popularity in the 1940s and 1950s, the post-World War II economy spurred on the influx of sporting luxury automobiles. For Elkhart Lake specifically, the notable Sports Car Club of America was the main organizer of their races. Incredibly popular races such as the RoadAmerica 500, SCCA National Sports Car Championship, the United States Road Racing Championship and the IMSAGT Championship took place here. Today, it continues to host luxury races and draw motorsports fans and can even be found in numerous racing video games!
Following a wild time racing, spend time winding down at the Aspira Spa. Inspired by local Native American practices and traditions, the spa has fused these with modern technology, science, and comfort. The inside space of the Aspira is thoughtfully designed and embraces the concept of Feng Shui as well as the natural elements. 360 recommends the Element Facial. This facial features a mask focused in traditional Chinese medicine representing the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Harmony can be restored through the combination of colored light and essential oils inspired by these elements. By exalting the healing practices of indigenous cultures around the world, Aspira is able to provide a holistic, organic, and thorough approach to healing and relaxation.
Travel back in time once again with a visit to the Carriage Museum at Wade House – back to the 1860s stagecoach era located within this Wisconsin Historical Site. To get a full experience of the period, we were able to travel in a horse-drawn carriage! The museum also features Wisconsin’s most diverse collection of transportation of this kind with over 100 horse-and-hand drawn vehicles. For the transportation enthusiasts, this isn’t to be missed.
When one thinks of wine country, Wisconsin might not exactly spring to mind. Yet award-winning sommelier Jaclyn Stuart operates Vintage Elkhart Lake, a charming shop where she hand-selects all wines available. The tasting at her bar came paired with cheese plates, potato chip flights, and other delectable pairing bites. The shop, beyond wine unique to the area, also sells other local delicacies for those interested in bringing home a taste of Wisconsin.
It would hardly be a trip to Elkhart Lake without time spent fishing. Elkhart Lake is 119 feet deep and 292 acres wide, providing the perfect home to a variety of fish species: musky, walleye, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill and crappie. Going with a licensed guide like Jay Brickner will aide in explaining all of those numerous species. Below the surface isn’t the only place to find remarkable species – a variety of endangered bird call this estuary home including bald eagles. Whether or not fishing is an interest, time spent on this beautiful, blue lake is worth taking a boat out for. Closer to shore also boasts some of the lake’s best charms. From the time when Native Americans lived along its banks, Elkhart Lake’s pristine quality has been appreciated. Taking advantage of more advanced activities like a hydrobike or other watersports can be a more adventurous way to embrace lake life. Other options include standup paddleboard, jet skis, and speedboats. Even taking a walk in the sand along the shoreline is a great way to embrace all the lake has to offer.
The natural beauty of Elkhart Lake is its most obvious draw, but the culinary scene isn’t to be underestimated. Lake Street Café, serving California Bistro style fare, also offers Wisconsin’s third largest wine list ensuring the perfect pairing for any dish. Quit Qui Clubhouse features classic pub and grill fare with a Wisconsin twist, including homemade soups, chili, sandwiches, burgers, and more. Siebkens Resort and 67 Saloon are also phenomenal dinner options reflecting inspiration from the area.
Elkhart Lake proved to be a much-needed September getaway. The natural beauty paired with the historical aspects of the Native American culture, coupled with the scene of luxury racing and delectable eats makes this an incredibly well-rounded destination.
9 Tips to Remember Your Journey Forever
Any trip is an excellent opportunity to learn many new things and break out of the routine. No matter if you have just recently returned from a vacation filled with new impressions or vice versa, are just getting ready to go and planning your route, you may be interested in this article. We have collected nine small tips to remain inspired by the journey and remember it forever.
Make Yourself a Talisman
Some trips become something much more than just a break from work and truly open up a new chapter in our lives. If you want to capture this momentous moment for yourself or your friend, a 3D crystal photo can be a great option and one of the best gifts for avid travelers.
ArtPix 3D creates customized 3D crystals, such as keychains, necklaces, or figurines of different crystals types and shapes. Such a volumetric 3D Image created by using a laser-etching method looks beautiful and original. ArtPix 3D allows ordering unique personalized crystals online and shipping within the US in the shortest terms.
Write an Article or Post About Your Adventures
Even a short story about the trip will help you remember the vacation better, and it may become an inspiration and motivator for other travelers.
Also, your personal experience and fresh travel tips will help others to avoid mistakes and pitfalls.
The sharing of practical knowledge is invaluable because it makes travel more comfortable, safer, and more beneficial.
Feel free to share your findings, overcome difficulties, and even curiosities during the trip via social media. This information can come in handy for other people!
Relax and Take Pictures
Going on vacation, forget about work issues, and monotonous routine. Just have fun, and don’t forget to take pictures! Human memory is unreliable, and even the most vivid memories fade over time. The photos will become a “time machine” for you, helping you to relive your trips in all details.
To not be distracted from your adventures by monitoring likes and views your posts get on Instagram, try not to upload photos right away, or even use a good old camera or instant camera instead of a smartphone.
Take photos of not only what “is supposed to,” like places of tourist attraction, and not only what will collect more enthusiastic comments on social networks.
Notice and capture all these little things, details, and stories that will be understandable only to those who were next to you during this journey. Such shots have a unique nostalgic atmosphere.
Taste Masterpieces of Local Cuisine
Each nation has its gastronomic preferences and delicacies. In France, there are excellent cheeses and wine, in England – ales and puddings, in Italy – prosciutto, pizza, and lasagne, in Spain – paella, gazpacho, and Jamon serrano. Any country has something to please and amaze guests from abroad.
To appreciate the local cuisine, you should better avoid restaurants in tourist areas and near interest places. The food there will be much more expensive and, very likely, of lower quality. Walk a few blocks, and you will find nicer and cheaper local restaurants.
Besides, locals do not eat in cafes and restaurants every day, so that you can follow their example. Go to the supermarket or grocery store, pick something you would like to try, and cook dinner yourself.
If there is no kitchen where you are staying, that’s no problem. Visit a local farmers market, grab some fruits and sandwiches, and have a picnic in the park. New impressions and small savings are guaranteed for you!
Visit Quirky Spots and Museums
Besides the well-known museums of art or places of historical interest, popular and crowded with tourists, each city has small, but no less attractive educational and entertainment spots.
It can be a house-museum of a famous musician, scientist or writer, or a little-known but unusual private exhibition. For example, in Paris, why not go to the Museum of Erotica or Magic, the ancient Père Lachaise Cemetery, or the catacombs? So you will look at the city from a different angle and learn something new.
Make New Acquaintances
Do not be afraid to strike up a conversation with new people – fellow travelers, neighbors at a table in a cafe, locals. A conversation with a stranger is an adventure, albeit a small one, thanks to which you can learn a lot about little-known but worthwhile places to visit, local culture, customs, and sense of humor, as well as various useful life hacks.
Feel free to be the first to start the conversation.
First, you will learn foreign words, and you can show off new knowledge in front of friends or on a date. Secondly, it is good memory training. And finally, in this way, you will find mutual understanding with the locals and show respect: not everyone knows English.
Collect Some Souvenirs
Those who love to collect various memorabilia will appreciate this idea. Returning home from a foreign country or new city, you do not have to buy yourself keychains, magnets, and other typical souvenirs.
Take them for friends and loved ones, and leave yourself something more intimate and personal:
- a tram ticket
- a beautiful tree leaf
- a coin
- an old book from a flea market
- a sugar stick from a cafe you had visited
These things will bring the ride back to mind with every touch.
Ride Public Transport
Become acquainted with the country or city from the inside through the window of a tram, bus, electric train, subway, and observe the locals.
You will see how people discuss the latest country news, reading the press, joking, or rushing to an important meeting. Such a casual experience will let you have a cheap sightseeing tour and see the city in all its details, not only well-known tourist spots.
Add Some Extreme
Long promenades through the streets, museums, and galleries are undoubtedly impressive. But why not add some adrenaline rush to the entertainment program?
Visiting attraction parks, horseback riding, visiting a crazy festival, riding on a cable car, or at least cycling or rollerblading will make your journey more eventful. Give yourself some vivid emotions!
Chicago Living
By Krishan Narsinghani
Some call it America’s best fine dining town and others call it the Windy City. Chicago, IL is notorious for its bites and lake breeze, but 360 Magazine believes it’s one of the top cities to move to next.
It’s true that the winters are freezing, but the greater Chicago area has all four seasons and each one exudes a unique beauty. Midwest doesn’t only mean more sunshine and snow, but also affordable living prices and midwestern hospitality (which is important if you don’t already know people in the area). Opinions may vary, but Chi-town is cleaner than most metropolitan cities in the US and Summertime does not disappoint. Relax on the beaches of Lake Michigan or enjoy a nice hand-crafted cocktail at one of the many rooftops. Also explore the rich history and landmarks like The Bean, Navy Pier and Millennium Park – where Lollapalooza is annually held.
First, you need to find where you want to live in the city or outside the city. With over 70 neighborhoods to choose from, movers have tons of options depending on the culture and attractions they want to be associated with. If you’re looking for a superb nightclub scene, River North is your area. West loop is ideal for corporate workers and hot restaurants. West town has new ethnic eateries with wicker park nearby. The list goes on, but every part of Chi has its own vibe and treasures. Getting around the city is easy as public transport isn’t an issue.
In today’s market with COVID-19, it’s harder than ever to find proper living spaces in a major city whilst also budgeting within a reasonable price range. According to Chicago data collected by travel blogger, Lauren Monitz, “The median price for a home listing is $1,750 which is slightly over the national average.” For apartment renting, Zumper’s data showed that the average rent in Logan Square is as low $950 for a studio (and $1,095 across the city overall). Find a roommate and move to The Loop for an average of $2,810 per month. In cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York, the average rent price is significantly higher.
A hidden lifesaver recommended for individuals looking to jumpstart their move is a platform called Zumper. Zumper is used by millions of renters to find houses, rooms, condos, or apartments for rent. It’s as simple as applying online. Submit digital rental applications and credit reports with their screening service, powered by TransUnion™. We’ve all tried to use countless rent/housing websites, but Zumper’s site maximizes quality. The inventory is updated in real-time, so users always see new rentals first. Try filtering by location, price range, bedroom count, pet-friendly, or amenity and set an alert to get notifications when a new listing is posted.
It’s always hard to take that first step and find the perfect place. Using websites and apps to navigate searches help legitimize you traveling in-person to visit a new home. It will also save energy if you aren’t wasting time on sites that don’t filter new apartments and homes, plus alerts to keep you in the know. Overall, Chicago has made a mark on our staff. It’s safe to say it’s one of the top cities in the US to live in.
The Band Famous Helps Others Love Themselves
Picture this: a small dinner between friends turns into a jam session. A group of people who had not seen each other in years reconnects over their passion for making music and creating apps. The atmosphere is great, and the energy is high. They let talent, inspiration, and a good time take over as they play their instruments and sing. And that is how some of the greatest bands came to be.
Back in July 26, 2013 that is exactly how The Band Famous was born. Norell and Zander–the founders–visited their friends for dinner and soon turned that occasion into an improvised jam session. They played music and out of that recording came the tracks you can now listen to in their debut album, Last Words.
Norell and Zander met in 2010 when she posed for him as a body paint model at DVS1’s Hush Studios in Minneapolis. From the very beginning, she noticed Zander’s kindness and passion for helping and promoting other artists. This is a quality they both wanted to be part of their band and their careers.
The Band Famous became the first band to code, develop, and deploy an exclusive app album for their debut. It gives users the opportunity to listen to the album offline, enjoy live interactive in-app concerts, and the chance to play a strategic, retro, sophisticated video game of Rock, Paper, Scissors.
Besides their innovations, they stand out because they foster a community and queer-based enterprise that is all about inclusion and acceptance for those who have been shunned by family and friends over their alternative lifestyles. Their purpose is to help others love and accept themselves and inspire them to follow their dreams to take their lives by the reigns and make it what they want for themselves. The founders say, “we want to inspire, we want to uplift, and we want to give back even more by raising awareness and proceeds for charities close to our hearts.” In the end, they want their audience to be in a better state of mind after listening to their music.
Their passion and talent led them to create a loving and accepting fanbase. With them in mind, Norell and Zander created an online Hall of Fame where they share the music they enjoy. Because they care about musicians, they share others’ talented new records–with their permission–with their fans online. They also have their own TBF Radio for free every hour of every day to keep their followers company at all times.
From the beginning of their careers, both Norell and Zander have shown how important it is for them to create a safe space for people to be themselves. Through their music, their Hall of Fame, their radio, and their app, they want their fans to feel accepted. Year after year, they continue to spread awareness and love. The way you can perceive this is by listening to their music or visiting their LA store on Saturdays from 3PM to 5PM.
Plumbing Inspection Checklist for Homebuyers
It’s very common for new homebuyers to get too excited about a few features of the house and hurriedly finalize a purchase. Sometimes they may focus too much on certain aspects and completely ignore other important features. But, when deciding about purchasing a house, ignoring the plumbing faults can be a major mistake. Certain plumbing details that escape your inspecting eyes can turn out to be major faults and cost you expensive repairs. How would you feel if the day after you move in you find overflowing tubs of water in the toilet?
Read ahead for some tips and tricks to keep in mind while you house-hunt.
- Check the toilet flush: Don’t let the fear of embarrassment keep you from checking the toilet flush in every bathroom. Each and every toilet flush should be checked to inspect the plumbing. This way you will be able to figure out if there is a poor water pressure, a clog, or a leak.
- Test the water pressure: Most of the water-based home appliances like the dishwasher and the washing machine require adequate water pressure for optimal functioning. You can easily check the water pressure of your prospective home by running the shower or the hot water.
- Question the pipe age and material: Pipes can be made of different materials including copper, cast iron, galvanized, or PVC. Depending on the type of the material, pipes may be prone to damage or wearing off sooner. For example, if you consider galvanized pipes for example, they would need to be replaced after 30 years. Therefore, being informed about the age and material of the plumbing pipes will help you gauge their effective lifespan. In any case, if the plumbing is made of lead pipes, you should steer away from the deal immediately because of the risk of lead poisoning. Shower faucet parts also depend on pipe material, as aging galvanized or lead pipes can damage these components. Checking both plumbing and shower faucet parts helps ensure safety, durability, and long-term performance.
- Keep a lookout for visible signs of damage: Keep out for pipes or fixtures that look rusty or worn out. Some places you should definitely check are the inlet and outlet pipes of the water heater, water purifier etc. In fact, do a thorough inspection of these appliances for detecting leaks, corrosion and buildups.
- Check the basement: You may think that the basement would just be another storage space in the house, and don’t care about taking a trip underground. But as a prospective house owner, you should not ignore the basement inspection, especially from the plumbing point of view. Inspect any pipes and drains in the basement for leaks or damage. Enquire about the sump pump and check the reliability of its perimeter drainage system.
- Check outdoors: While the backyard and the lawn may not catch much of your attention, they carry some plumbing secrets you ought to unravel. Outdoor leaking pipes may commonly go unnoticed by homebuyers. While you take a walk outdoors look out for any suspicious water puddles, wild growths near the walls and mold growth on the building surface. These may be indicative of pipe leaks.
- Ask about the septic tank: Feel free to enquire whether the house has a septic tank and where it is located.
- Inquire about the rain drains: Every house needs a fault-free and effective rain drainage system. Rain water flooding can cause huge water damage and even health issues due to unreasonable humidity levels in the house. It’s a good idea to inspect the rain drains and downspouts and be assured of their effectiveness.
If you are not satisfied with the quality of the home’s plumbing after a thorough inspection, you should inform the agent or the seller about your opinion. In fact, it would be a smart move to get a professional plumber to inspect the plumbing further and give you a clear state of affairs of the house’s plumbing.
Sam Smith – Diamonds
Capitol Records will release Sam Smith’s new album, Love Goes, on October 30th. Today, as the album pre-order launched, they shared their new single, “Diamonds,” a dazzling dancefloor anthem that showcases Sam’s unforgettable vocals in a defiant tale of love lived without regret. Smith wrote the track with Shellback (Adele, Maroon 5, Taylor Swift) and Oscar Holter (The Weeknd, Tove Lo). Shellback and Oscar Görres (MARINA, Allie X) produced. Download/stream “Diamonds” HERE.
In the official video, Smith dances alone with abandon, reveling in their newfound freedom and emerging from a stormy night to greet the morning sun. The clip was directed by Emmy award winning filmmaker Luke Monaghan, who also teamed up with Smith on such videos as “Too Good At Goodbyes” “Writing’s on the Wall” and “I’m Not the Only One.” Their work together has amassed over 2.5 billion streams. Watch the “Diamonds” video HERE.
The album’s 17 songs were written over the course of the past two years. The pandemic gave Smith a fresh perspective on the album and impacted both its title and the recording of tracks such as the recently released “My Oasis,” a cross-continental collaboration with Burna Boy. As Smith details in this announcement, posted today, “Every time I went into the studio I promised myself I would shoot for the stars and have no limitations…I am sorry it’s taken a while. But these unprecedented times gave me the room and space to fall in love with these songs all over again…After it all I still believe love is the answer. And with love in our hearts and kindness in our words and actions, we sing on.” The new album builds on the 30 billion career streams Smith has amassed and the global success of their multi-Platinum debut and sophomore albums, In the Lonely Hour and The Thrill of It All. For the artwork for Love Goes, Smith worked with world-renowned British fashion photographer/filmmaker Alasdair McLellan (Vogue, Kim Jones, Louis Vuitton) to bring their vision to life. Love Goes is available for pre-order HERE. Fans who pre-order the digital album will instantly receive “Diamonds” plus “My Oasis,”“Dancing with a Stranger,” the chart-topping collaboration with Normani that has sold more than 13 million units and racked up over 2.5 billion streams worldwide, “To Die For” and “How Do You Sleep?” The new album also features collaborations with Labrinth (“Love Goes”) and Calvin Harris (“Promises”). See below for track listing. Love Goes follows 2017’s The Thrill Of It All, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and also topped the charts in the U.K., Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands and Belgium. Awarded four stars by Rolling Stone, the album included the hit single “Too Good At Goodbyes,” which recently became Smith’s second song to receive over a billion streams on Spotify, after “Stay With Me.” Smith, who has won GRAMMY, BRIT, Golden Globe and Oscar awards, recently featured on Tiwa Savage’s new song, “Temptation.”
TRACK LISTING – LOVE GOES
- Young
- Diamonds
- Another One
- My Oasis (feat. Burna Boy)
- So Serious
- Dance (‘Til You Love Someone Else)
- For The Lover That I Lost
- Breaking Hearts
- Forgive Myself
- Love Goes (feat. Labrinth)
- Kids Again
BONUS TRACKS
- Dancing With A Stranger (Sam Smith & Normani)
- How Do You Sleep?
- To Die For
- I’m Ready (Sam Smith & Demi Lovato)
- Fire On Fire
- Promises (Calvin Harris & Sam Smith)
