The post Reasons to Hire Public Adjusters for Insurance Claims appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>So, what can you do when you can’t seem to agree on the insurance cost? That’s where you need help from a public adjuster to settle your insurance claims!
In simple terms, insurance adjusters work on behalf of the insurance company. While they may have a lot of information about making claims and propose decent repair costs, they don’t work directly for the homeowners.
On the other hand, public adjusters perform the same actions of assessing the damages and writing up proposals for each repair and their costs. However, they work directly for the homeowners instead of the insurance company. However, considering that you need to employ public adjusters yourself, you also need to pay for their services. Granted, it doesn’t come out of your pocket since they only charge a small percentage of what you claim ultimately from the insurance company.
Simply put, the key difference between an insurance adjuster and a public adjuster is who they are employed by to perform the given tasks of making an insurance claim. If that’s the case, then the question arises – Why would someone hire a public adjuster and provide them with a percentage of their claims for the same job insurance adjusters do for free?
To put things into further context, let’s understand why relying upon your insurance adjuster can prove to be a questionable decision for you at times.
The truth is that company adjusters work for the insurance business and not the homeowners themselves. It’s also true that your insurance company might want to save some dollars during the payout process when you’ve had a big loss. While some reputable firms discourage such behavior among their employees, you can’t be sure about your situation until it’s too late for you to reclaim your insurance.
Also, because the insurance adjusters work directly for the company, they also have to consider the insurance company’s needs before making an offer to the homeowners. Ultimately, the final deal you get isn’t usually what you should have originally received from the insurance company for covering the damages adequately. This is where you might understand why depending upon the insurance adjuster might not work in your favor as conveniently as you originally thought.
Working with a public adjuster can give you a notable edge when you find yourself in the process of making an insurance claim. Here are five reasons to hire them that would make the overall proceeding far more worthwhile for you despite their charges:
Public adjusters are professionals who you can hire at any time during the claim process, just as long as you haven’t signed the final release. Since they are dedicated experts in the field, you can expect your insurance claim process to be completed in a professional and timely manner.
The post Reasons to Hire Public Adjusters for Insurance Claims appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>The post The Pros and Cons of Buying a Smart TV appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>But as with anything, there are trade-offs. So is buying a smart TV worth it? We’ll lay out the pros and cons so you can decide.
With various capabilities, smart TVs can just about do it all without the need for third-party devices – all accessible with a single remote. This is especially beneficial with the rise of new streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, Peacock and so much more.
Just as with any home appliance, vehicle, or product with “bells and whistles”, the more features it has, the more things can potentially go wrong. In some cases, feature malfunctions can impact the TV itself, forcing the question “was it worth it”?
…plus, you need a solid internet connection, either through WiFi or ethernet.
TV is at its best when you’re bored… so what better feeling than to have a plethora of options? In addition to streaming services and such, most smart TVs also have additional apps that you would have otherwise had on your phone.
Depending on the brand and the design, you could be spending considerably more on a smart TV. From there, it’ll come down to how often you’re using the “smart” features and decide whether or not it’s worth the additional charges.
A fun tip? If you decide not to buy a smart TV, you can always invest in a third-party entertainment device such as the Apple TV or Roku. You can find one at your local electronics store!
And the real con here? Most of these third-party entertainment devices cost less than the difference you’re paying for a smart TV. So in other words, you can spend an additional 300 dollars or so for a smart TV or $50 – $100 for a third-party device that you can just hook up to a conventional TV.
The post The Pros and Cons of Buying a Smart TV appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>The post 8 Interior Designing Rules to Know About appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>The very first rule for revamping any space is incorporating an element in the room that steals everyone’s attention, compelling them to look at it many times. Despite what many people assume, that element doesn’t have to be a big centerpiece placed somewhere in the middle of the room. You can choose a radiant abstract art, a furniture accessory with bold colors, an exquisite rug, or even an artful feature wall.
Rather than hurrying through the process, take some time choosing the hero piece. And yes, it should be something you fall in love with at first glance! However, make sure whatever you decide on must have some space to breathe, and it doesn’t overcrowd the room. Moreover, once you integrate that feature into the room, try using hints of the same theme throughout your room to make it all work.
The difficult part isn’t to pick out beautiful paintings for brightening your walls. It’s rather the part where you’re figuring out exactly where to hang that wall art such that it aesthetically revamps the room. The right height can make all the difference as it can help create a sense of harmony throughout the room.
As a general rule, you should remember that your artwork should always be at eye level. From an average person’s perspective, that’s approximately 145 centimeters from the floor to the center of the painting. Many people like to surround their central art piece with smaller paintings, creating a feature wall. If that’s your case, we suggest placing your center artwork onto the wall using this rule. After that, you can hang the rest of the artworks based on the center one, giving at least an inch-or-two difference from all sides.
Have you noticed that most large furniture pieces are based on rectangular and square shapes? For instance, sofas, beds, dressing tables, sideboards, nightstands, and shelving units. This automatically gives your room a two-dimensional outlook, making it look boring after a few minutes of scrutiny.
However, you can make a significant difference by incorporating a few other shapes in the room. For that, you can purchase a round coffee table instead of choosing a rectangular one. You can also make use of a round or oval rug, multi-shape mirrors, a pair of round side tables, pyramid-shaped coffee table accessories – the options are endless!
Wall mirrors can be a spectacular addition to any room that needs a bit of additional lighting. Most interior designers make it a rule to incorporate a mirror or two for visually expanding the space if it’s an average or small-sized room.
Besides creating light and space, wall mirrors can also work as an excellent attention-grabbing yet practical element. However, we would suggest using the wall mirrors wisely and in a limited measure despite its various perks, as too much of anything is never a good idea.
Bringing some neutrals into the room and leaving some empty space is essential, especially if you’re big on colors. Let’s consider an example where you have several artful spots in the living room, such as bright hanging lights, colorful paintings, flowers, and funky bean bags. In such instances, it can be a great idea to balance the room by white-washing the walls and incorporate flooring using simple, non-patterned tiles.
Similarly, if you have a room based on interior designers like white, gray, and black, it is best to add some shades into the room by placing a couple of radiant flowers into a vase or hanging illuminating abstract arts.
Unfortunately, several people don’t have rugs on their list of high-demanding home decor accessories. They would spend so much time, money, and effort to revamp a space without getting the results they desire when all that’s missing is a simple rug (not a wall-to-wall carpet) to anchor the room.
Rugs are great for adding color and soft textures into a room. The best thing about rugs is that they’re relatively inexpensive. Simply put, they can create a strong impact on any room’s look while letting you stay within budget. However, it would be best if you remembered the ultimate interior designing rule when selecting your rug’s size, i.e., leaving around 25 centimeters of visible floor around the rug.
This is one of the best interior designing rules for decorating a room with low ceilings. You can create an illusion of room height to your liking by selecting low-profile furniture like sofas and coffee tables. To boost the effect to the next level, you can invest in tall, slim bookshelves and lamps that draw the audience’s attention upwards. These improvements will make the windows and walls appear taller. Moreover, mixing different heights is important for creating a relaxed yet modern vibe in your home that doesn’t require too much effort.
Spaces with one type of lighting, like an overhead pendant, can make it look bland and two-dimensional no matter how fancy that light source is. However, multiple different height-and-shape lighting sources can elevate any room’s mood efficiently. You can try this one out by adding floor lamps, small table lamps, and sconces in addition to the overhead light source.
It’s time to put on your creative hat and use these eight interior designing rules to your advantage, creating the home of your dreams!
The post 8 Interior Designing Rules to Know About appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>The post Top 10 Things To Do In San Diego appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>The San Diego Zoo is one of the most visited zoos in the United States. It houses over 3500 animals and over 650 species. It is known for its open-air cageless areas creating more natural habitats for the animals and easier viewing experience for visitors. Other activities include children’s petting zoo and play areas along with baby animal exhibits. View the Zoo from the air on their sky tram. It is also one of the only zoos outside of China to house the Giant Panda. The San Diego zoo is located in the famed Balboa Park.
An upscale community known for its spectacular views and popular beaches, it has a host of different activities from fine dining and shopping to outdoor activities for families to enjoy. The 300ft cliffs and the secluded sea coves provide breathtaking scenery that doesn’t disappoint.
With the mild water temperature, La Jolla beach is a popular spot to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. The Children’s Pool, which once used to be a popular swimming area for kids is now a popular spot for viewing seals and sea lions. Make sure visiting La Jolla Coastline is on your San Diego to-do list.
A natural park spanning 68 acres along the pacific coast. The Sunset Cliffs are known for their amazing views of the ocean and sandstone cliffs. Sunset is a popular time to visit, hence the name, but visiting anytime during the day will not disappoint. It also includes a nature preserve and undeveloped park. It is also a popular spot for watching the California Gray Whale migration.
No trip to a beach town is complete without a trip to a beachfront amusement park and boardwalk. Open since 1925, Belmont Park has something for everyone. From thrill rides for the adventure junkie to the carousel for those looking for a calmer ride. Test your putting skills with a round of miniature golf. No one goes hungry at Belmont Park, you can dine on traditional amusement park snacks or dine in more upscale restaurants such as Cannonball. Make sure when planning your trip to San Diego you add Belmont Park to the list.
No trip to a beach town is complete without a trip to a beachfront amusement park and boardwalk. Open since 1925, Belmont Park has something for everyone. From thrill rides for the adventure junkie to the carousel for those looking for a calmer ride. Test your putting skills with a round of miniature golf. No one goes hungry at Belmont Park, you can dine on traditional amusement park snacks or dine in more upscale restaurants such as Cannonball. Make sure when planning your trip to San Diego you add Belmont Park to the list.
Known as a cultural mecca in San Diego, Balboa Park is home to various museums, parks, open green spaces, theaters, and home to the famous San Diego Zoo. With over 1200 acres, it is a must-see when visiting San Diego. The park is home to several cultural events throughout the year. There is something for everyone to do. For the nature lover, visit the Alcazar Garden for amazing gardens that are planted seasonally. There are plenty of things for the kids to enjoy, from playgrounds, puppet theaters to various museums. Shoppers will not be disappointed with the variety of shops to enjoy. Plan on spending the day at Balboa Park, it will not disappoint.
Located in the La Jolla community, this 2000 acre coastal state park is home to the Torrey Pine, the rarest pine in North America. Much of this area has been left untouched. The reserve is home to various kinds of wildlife and vegetation and overlooks Torrey Pine State Beach. Torrey Pines has 8 walking trails and is considered a natural preserve. Much of its wildlife and vegetation are protected so no food or drinks or dogs are permitted If you are looking for a peaceful, clean beautiful environment, visit Torrey Pines on your visit.
Located in the La Jolla community, this 2000 acre coastal state park is home to the Torrey Pine, the rarest pine in North America. Much of this area has been left untouched. The reserve is home to various kinds of wildlife and vegetation and overlooks Torrey Pine State Beach. Torrey Pines has 8 walking trails and is considered a natural preserve. Much of its wildlife and vegetation are protected so no food or drinks or dogs are permitted If you are looking for a peaceful, clean beautiful environment, visit Torrey Pines on your visit.
Located in the La Jolla community, this 2000 acre coastal state park is home to the Torrey Pine, the rarest pine in North America. Much of this area has been left untouched. The reserve is home to various kinds of wildlife and vegetation and overlooks Torrey Pine State Beach. Torrey Pines has 8 walking trails and is considered a natural preserve. Much of its wildlife and vegetation are protected so no food or drinks or dogs are permitted If you are looking for a peaceful, clean beautiful environment, visit Torrey Pines on your visit.
None for its hustle and bustle, Little Italy is one of the most active neighborhoods in San Diego. Once a fishing neighborhood, it is now renowned for its restaurants, art galleries, and shopping. Little Italy is best known for its food, drinks, and entertainment so make sure to check all three on your visit. Visiting Little Italy will give you a feel for the real San Diego.
San Diego has something to offer everyone. If you are looking for a relaxing day on the beach there are several options to choose from including Coronado Island and Mission Beach. Learn about naval history and the USS Midway museum and wrap up your day with great food, shopping, and entertainment exploring the neighborhoods of San Diego in Little Italy and La Jolla. It is no wonder San Diego is a top tourist destination.
The post Top 10 Things To Do In San Diego appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>The post Top Home Gym Equipment for Every Budget appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>Whether maintenance, muscle-building, or weight control is your goal, home gyms offer the best options for continued success. Working out at home means you can set your own schedule, and no more waiting for a piece of equipment to become available while trying to maintain your exercise-elevated cardio level. Your ‘locker room’ and shower facilities are more exclusive as well. Also, no combination locks or lockers to stow your gear while you exercise, and no monthly/annual membership fee. There’s more- no self-consciousness around folks who were born fit and genetically hard-wired to stay that way regardless of how many pizzas and beers they ingest. That said, here are our top picks and why:
We said every budget, right? Some readers may still be thinking this equipment is out of reach. Remember, every system offers payment plans but if you truly are a cheapskate, there are still other options. Many townships have an ‘offer up’ website where residents can upload photos of unwanted household goods, free on a first-come, first-served, haul-it-away-yourself basis. Unwieldy, disused exercise equipment is a perennial selection on these sites. If less is more for you, however, just opt for hand-held free weights in varying sizes, a portable over-the-door system consisting of a pull-up bar, pulleys, and handles. Add a star if the door features a full-length mirror. If not, many towns have an ‘offer up’ website.
The post Top Home Gym Equipment for Every Budget appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>The post Home Storage 101: Your Clothes Closet appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>Take everything out and lay clothing on the bed, and boxes, storage bins on the floor. This first part is the hardest, but it will make the rest of the afternoon go much faster and easier. Evaluate whatcha got. Try clothing on in front of a mirror if necessary. If you love an item but it does not compliment you or worse, highlights a problem area, put it in a contractor bag (so you cannot see it again) earmarked for donations.
Segregate your wardrobe by different categories: Work/Athletic/Casual/Formal. Put these items back in your closet and color code them. This means all the blue tops for work are together, followed by another shade and includes everything you use for that activity in that color. Put short-sleeved tops together by color, long sleeve, etc. Soon your closet will start looking very organized. Best of all- you will find what you need more easily.
If you are having problems parting with garments because you think you’ll need them later, try this hack: replace all garments in your closets with the hook facing AWAY from you. If you wear a garment, return to the closet with the hook facing TOWARD you. After a few months, donate any garments facing AWAY from you. You’re not using them and someone else will be glad to!
BTW: if you find your wardrobe is deficient or lacking certain items, know that it is not necessary to go out on a shopping spree at a retail store. Instead, keep your carbon footprint small and your region’s landfill contained by purchasing quality used clothing from reputable online vendors or the local thrift store.
Many times, we just contend with builder-grade rods behind suspended doors. For a modest cash outlay and one weekend day of labor, you can change all that and create the closet organization that works for your needs. Once you have culled your wardrobe, you’ll have a better idea of how you would like to access these garments and therefore, what you’ll need. There are several brands and even custom closet companies, but for most of us, a vinyl-coated steel wire kit and several hours measuring and using simple hand tools, possibly a drill, will make a big difference in our lives for years to come.
Consider keeping outerwear and seasonal clothing in a zippered hanging storage bag(s) in your hall closet by the front door. That will make way for more room in your bedroom closet. There is no point in having storage that isn’t in daily use.
Save space by investing in hangers that hold multiple items for skirts, leggings, pants, camisoles, and tank tops. There are even hanging storage holders for shoes and footwear. For a truly cohesive look, use only one type of hangers such as those thin velvet styles that come in an array of colors and metals. The good news is that recently this type became available in heavy-duty strength as well- no more doubling and tripling up hangers to support maxi coats!
Save your upper shelf space for items you do not use often such as winter hats, wool scarves, and mittens. Label these with Post-It™ notes to make locating what you’ve stored much easier later on. Instead of storing out of season handbags on shelves, consider accessory hooks so you can see what you have at a glance. BTW: Stuff tissue paper from the craft store inside to help these items retain their shape. No bureau for nightwear, underwear, and hosiery? Put these in labeled bins on the shelves below eye level for quick everyday access.
A great trick to save hanging space is by rolling tee shirts in a sausage roll and placing them upright in a storage bin. This way they remain unwrinkled, take little space and are easy to identify and remove as needed. Just reach on in!
An unraveling seam has sent many a fine garment to the donate bin way before its time. No one has the time to get out the sewing machine every time they need a quick repair. Get the most wear from your wardrobe by keeping a sewing repair kit with scissors, a measuring tape, pins, needles, and an assortment of threads in your laundry area. While hand-held steamers are economical, hanging a garment in the bath after your shower will work just as well. And if you really love your clothes, find room in your closet and budget for a professional garment steamer. These can be found for under $100 and are worth every cent.
Hard as it is to imagine a life without clothes hanging space, we have all lived at some time with limited options. In these instances, here are a few suggestions:
ARMOIRES: Victorians had ‘em and many of these bulky furniture items feature mirrored doors and shelves or drawers inside as well as hanging space.
ROLLING GARMENT RACKS: These are available at many big box stores as well as online and are most often crafted from chromed steel. They feature an edgy look and can be accessorized with zippered hanging garment bags to keep your clothes dust-free. Most racks require assembly- invite a couple of friends over, order a pizza and make a party of it!
THAT SWEDISH HOME GOODS STORE: You know the one. They sell great spring-loaded, free-standing closet components that are available in set combinations or for DIYers to create their own. These units start at about $150 and up but if you rent, these are easy to take with you.
ROLLING UNDERBED STORAGE: These units come with segmented interiors for different types of folded apparel and feature clear zippered tops for easy access.
STEAMER TRUNKS: Chances are if you have a steamer trunk it is being used for TV remote storage. Evict them puppies, buy them a bowl, and use the interior space instead for out of season bedding, coats, jackets, sweaters, etc.
BOOKCASE: If you have one, cull through your reading material and donate as many bestsellers, etc. as you can. Use that shelving space for bins to store shoes, accessories, lingerie, etc. instead. After all, today the majority of us read our literature online!
We hope our suggestions will help you control clutter, find new homes for disused apparel, and curate your wardrobe and home furnishings to include only what works for you. This way you can reclaim time- dressing for work will go faster, you can use this ‘found time’ for more important things, and when you have just what you need within easy reach, your self-esteem soars.
The post Home Storage 101: Your Clothes Closet appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>The post Best Smart Upgrades for New Homeowners appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>KEYLESS ENTRY: The concept is simple- enter a (usually) 4-digit code and voila, no need for keys. The convenience of keyless entry includes your morning run when keys would pose a nuisance, visitors, contractors, delivery personnel, or tenants who can have a code of their own which can be wiped upon their departure. For those who live alone losing your keys and not having entry to your home is one less thing to worry about.
SMART HOME SECURITY: We will not mention brand names but there are a wealth of options for every size home and budget. No one should be without a home security system, if only for the 15% (sometimes higher) rebate on our annual home insurance policy. In addition to cameras that can be monitored remotely by the homeowner or by a subscription service, full-featured home security systems offer the option to control thermostats and lighting on every floor to lower energy costs. Some even warn against fire, carbon monoxide, leaks, and potential flood hazards. As previously stated, while most can be controlled remotely, some offer voice control as well.
SMART VACUUMS AND MORE: We have all seen the disc-shaped vacuums that sense boundaries and challenges to clean an entire floor on a single charge, then return to their home base. All one needs to do is empty them. While this is just grand, there are limitations including steps and thick rugs. Still, for interim tidying between deep cleanings, many homeowners swear by them.
Following this concept, weekend warriors who detest pushing the lawnmower will rejoice at the cordless robotic mowers that take on hills and tree roots with ease. Several major brands now offer models so while today these paragons are ideal for small lawns only, within a few years, there is the potential to swap one green (your yard), with another (the golf course). BTW: Robotics are also available to clean pools and control your sprinklers more effectively than ever before. And you’re welcome!
PERSONAL ASSISTANTS: The residential, voice-activated, AI-driven personal assistant is like having another family member. One that actually performs the chores you task it with! Beyond providing information, orchestrating online ‘visits’, and complying with home security systems, these devices now work in tandem with specialized light bulbs, wall switches, televisions, and even draperies and window coverings to make our lives more convenient. If one had to select one Smart Home upgrade for convenience and another for safety, the Voice-Activated Personal Assistant and the Smart Home Security System would be top of the list.
SMART MIRROR/BODY SCANNER: Unless one works in an industry where appearance is everything, the smart mirror/body scanner delves too far into the realm of pseudo-science and extreme vanity. The facial version informs users of facial blemishes, etc. (And their eyes don’t?) Additionally, it can be used to note changes in skin tone over time so one can determine if that expensive anti-wrinkle cream is worth the expense. The body version will let you know if your workouts have been effective or not based on your changing contours. (Your newly baggy clothes will not?)
METABOLISM STIMULATORS: This falls under the ‘now we have heard everything’ category. The unit is a headset that “allows” wearers to eat whatever they want and still lose weight. The machine is said to stimulate the brain so that it metabolizes faster leading to quick weight loss regardless of what the wearer has ingested. Uh, if that is the case, I’ll have the Lobster Thermador, heavy on the butter and cream, please! Dream on!
SMART MATTRESS: This is a sleep aid that does more than just support the spine- or does it? It monitors one’s resting heart rate, notes the bedroom temperature and noise rate, offers LED light therapy, and allegedly stops snoring. Sounds like an amusement park for insomniacs and any MD can tell you that adjusting one’s sleeping position will not realign one’s septum, the usual cause of nocturnal wood sawing, anyway.
WIFI-ENABLED APPLIANCES: We are not talking about coffee makers that know when you rise and have a piping hot pot of fresh java waiting. No! These innovations range from ‘cookie pods’ and an appliance whose sole purpose is to bake four cookies at a time and signal when it is finished (in my house our noses do the signaling for us), a fork that vibrates to let users know that they are eating too fast, an automatic dental flosser that sees one approach the sink and immediately dispenses floss (what if you only want to wash your hands?), and a pet food dispenser that ejects doggie treats by remote control from your mobile device. The good news is that they don’t work when your WiFi is down. Yes, that is the only good news.
As with most new technology, those who welcome it will take to new ways of doing daily tasks with ease. Those who are not, such as this author who has reservations about having a new ride with keyless entry and ignition, the best advice is to read the instructions and have a back-up plan- such as an entry system with keyless or keyed entry options. Sooner than later these innovations will become commonplace and ‘can’t live withouts’. If getting in on the ground floor of new technology is too much, just opt for one feature at a time, such as a personal assistant which is scalable and will allow even the most skittish to add on as needed. The “Brave New World” that Huxley wrote about is happening now, but that is not just cause to break the bank in the name of home improvement. After all, innovation and technology are meant to improve the quality of our lives, if only we’ll allow it!
The post Best Smart Upgrades for New Homeowners appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>The post Top 10 Car Safety Features For Your New Ride appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>Remember when anti-lock brakes were a major advance? Or how all-wheel drive changed how you felt about winter driving? What about the moonroof? Run-flat tires? And let’s not overlook the allure of a control screen in the center of our dash with its numerous communication features? In recent years there have been even more game changers in terms of automotive safety and convenience. Here are the most requested new features at the car dealership:
‘Autonomous’ is a word associated with most of today’s innovations. Utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI), the car is programmed to anticipate and fulfill an expectation. In this case, control (decision-making) is transferred from the drive to the vehicle’s AI system. Some of the ground-breaking safety features noted below are AI-based. This new wave of technology is in its infancy. Not only will AI make our vehicles more intuitive and problem-solving, but also safer, and get ready for this, ultimately driverless. Brave. New. World.
Not one for heavily relying on technology, this is one upgrade this writer can get my head around. The blind spot behind every car is responsible for a huge percentage of accidental rear collisions. How it works: a high-resolution video camera is built into the rear along with sensors that sound alerts for the driver when the potential for a collision is imminent.
While there are numerous creatures whose eyes are static, experience has proven that this is not a great feature for vehicles. The solution is adaptive headlights. These lights will automatically redirect their beam in the direction that the car is facing, making nighttime visibility, especially on winding roads, negotiating steep hills, and driving in bad weather, much safer.
Another pre-emptive technology, ESC anticipates when a skid is likely to occur and takes control of the vehicle’s engine and braking systems. However, should a skid be unavoidable ECS additionally marshalls forces to mitigate its effects.
Since the day we took our road test many of us have avoided ye olde parallel parking situation. With Reverse Park Assist, drivers press a button, engage the throttle, and the car takes over to steer your vehicle into position without damage to curbs, other vehicles, or yours. Now just how does one extricate one’s vehicle when it’s time to depart?
My family’s recent move to a retirement community where the average age appears to be significantly older than ourselves, prompted us to look into a new car with this feature. Suffice it to say our new locale is not a good place to have to back out of a parking space. This safety feature uses sensors to monitor the roadway on either side giving both visual and sound alerts is another vehicle is coming. This way we hope to avoid meeting our new neighbors with an auto body repair.
These road monitors are ideal for highway driving. The sensors will flash a visual warning if there is a vehicle in your blind spot when you are trying to change lanes.
There are a number of versions of this feature. Most will alert drivers with an audible warning if they are drifting into another lane. More advanced Lane Assist functions will move the steering wheel slightly thereby influencing drivers to steer in the indicated direction and presumably out of potential harm’s way.
Ever notice how law enforcement pulls over the vehicle that is not part of the pack? One of the ways to avoid this and stay in line with moving traffic, is with ACC. It enables drivers to maintain a constant distance from the vehicle directly in front, but will not exceed a set-speed to do so. If the lead vehicle slows down, yours does as well automatically. The question remains as to what happens when the lead exits the parkway, but I am sure the manufacturers have thought of that contingency!
The #1 most requested safety feature at dealerships is AEB. Seen on numerous car commercials on TV, this feature uses sensors to detect the proximity of anything in front of your vehicle. When a potential obstacle is detected, AEB applies the brakes automatically to minimize impact or if your vehicle is traveling at a slower speed, to avoid a collision altogether.
As you can see, AI is behind many of today’s safety features and innovations. If you are thinking it is time to trade in your old ride but think the new one would be cost-prohibitive, we have another suggestion. Just research online and determine which safety features are ‘must haves’. Then have a frank talk with your dealer. Every model has several levels of features, and there is likely to be at least one option that is both safety, and budget friendly. Happy and safe driving.
The post Top 10 Car Safety Features For Your New Ride appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>The post Taking Retail’s Pulse in 2019 appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>Except for Apple Store, this author has little interest in visiting the nearby mall. However, a recent trip to that emporium provided grist for this article. If the state of the economy can be gauged by the number of cars in the parking lot, then as a nation we appear to be doing well. It still takes upwards of five minutes to locate a convenient place to park. If that’s true, then what is going on at CVS, Bed, Bath, & Beyond, the Gap, and even J.C. Penney’s???!!! People still need toothpaste, towels, trendy jeans, and dad shirts, right? These household name retailers’ reach extends clear across the country and for many, their storied history goes back almost 80 years. And yet all of them are closing a disordinate number of stores this year.
But wait, there is more! Perennially in trouble, it seems, Sears is yet again, declaring it has to close stores to stay alive. Not to stay in the game, mind you, to stay ALIVE. The brand even sold its proprietary brand of Craftsman tools to Lowe’s, which incidentally is also closing stores left and right. Its major competitor Home Depot isn’t, but Lowe’s is. The message here is that construction starts have increased and HD caters to contractors. Lowe’s demographic is the homeowner. Yes, in real estate it is a seller’s market, but dollar for dollar a truckload of lumber and drywall costs way more than a patio set and barbecue grill.
Macy’s, that legendary 19th century retailer, is selling its flagship store. Yes. Herald Square is going up on the block. The auction block. Last year Lord & Taylor allied itself with Walmart, a move which would have been unthinkable only a few years ago, but today, somehow, it just seems right. Taking their cue from other big box stores, Kohl’s, Target, and even Starbucks, who posted less than stellar holiday figures in 2018, are heading off trouble at the pass and closing stores that are losing business, while allegedly opening new outlets in less competitive territory.
And given the international reach of the internet, just where would those less competitive regions exist? That may actually be at the crux of the matter. The economy may not be quite as bleak as our storefront observances seem to be telling us. The fact is, that the internet has made binge shoppers of us all, and with upgraded blockchains and distribution options, we can be in bed shopping for items and waking to find they have arrived on our doorstep overnight.
Such options make it much easier to purchase just about anything, and customer service as well as the returns processes have been honed to a near science so there is little risk for consumers. The almost instant gratification from buying at a brick and mortar has been the ‘Night Before Christmas’ expectation that a package full of goodies, or at least the paper towels you need, will arrive before you run out.
There is another reason that consumers are turning away from shopping locally at their big box stores. Choice. When you buy at a local store, a staffer, a Buyer, has determined what merchandise, styles, brands, at what prices people in that area can afford, and more importantly, what will turn the store the biggest profit. On the internet, however, the shopper is the Buyer, and the world is their playground. Like European fashion? As it turns out, Europeans like American dollars. So many foreign-based website businesses have English and American versions where it is easy to see the price for goods in our currency as well as the option to have them shipped quickly and affordably.
Back down at the shopping mall, one hears that so many big name retailers, mostly from the world of fashion, are trimming back their overhead. That means closing expensive-to-run brick and mortars, and shaving the cost of staff/salaries in favor of boosting their investment in their online enterprises. Its easier and more profitable for retailers to invest in their supply and distribution chains. Online retailers can save on warehousing as well since they can arrange to buy direct from manufacturers thanks to technology-driven distro upgrades.
For consumers, the Point of Sale aspect of buying online has vastly improved over the past decade. Shopping carts and transactions are now encrypted to the point where consumer trust has been gained. It is a brave new world in retail. Those who will survive will not only pay close attention to what consumers want, but anticipate their needs and get there beforehand.
In an interesting sidebar, seasonal retail jobs such as around the winter holidays, used to be a metric to close out unemployment figures on an uptick. Those statistics seem to remain low, however for the last two years retail job openings during the fourth quarter have nose dived. Retailers, such as Walmart, have opted instead to offer overtime hours to their existing staffers and not hiring on additional workers during the so-called busy season leading up to Black Friday, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s.
Finally, this author, who is well-rounded intellectually and physically, is not saddened to see that Victoria’s Secret, which celebrates the svelte female form with scanty underwear and lingerie, is closing 53 stores in 2019. This is a record for the chain as the number represents 3x their norm. However, the economy and the internet got nuthin’ to do with that! Analysts say that the majority of women, and their husbands, favor comfortable underwear styles in natural fibers that are more size-inclusive. What waaaaah!
The post Taking Retail’s Pulse in 2019 appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>The post The Rise of Baby Shark: Early Childhood Consumerism appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>Today, Mattel, Inc., headquartered in California since it was founded in 1945 repositioned its marketing to reflect changing times and is still going strong. “It’s a joy of a toy it’s Ideal”, founded in 1907, floundered and went out of business in 1997, an early victim of the digital age. With the internet, so much has changed, and yet, so much remains the same. Consumers are wiser now, yet continue to allow less than subtle influences to permeate our lives, and the lives of our children. This article explores how and why we allow advertising and marketing to impact our buying decisions as part of their business cycle. BTW: Just about all of us will or have performed this buying ritual, so prepare to enter the judgement-free zone.
Yesterday I witnessed firsthand, what happens when expectation is not fulfilled. I have a 20-month old grandniece, Lina. For Lina, this is not the Chinese Year of the Pig. Oh, no, this is the Year of Baby Shark. It was introduced to her at daycare, and what it is is an internet phenomenon. Baby Shark (hereafter ‘BS’) first surfaced on YouTube a while back as an innocuous ditty aimed at entertaining toddlers. Its cartoon characters emulate the nuclear family, the lyrics are repetitive, and the storyline is minimal. Rejoice! There is a happy outcome. Lina’s morning routine begins with being carried downstairs for breakfast, where she summons Alexa (and if your house or apartment does not have a voice-controlled intelligent personal assistant, What. Are. You. Waiting for?) to play “Doot! Doot!” (the BS chorus).
The original concept has been openly duplicated across the internet, to the point where there are so many imitators, that one can expect a version of Baby Shark for every holiday. Of course there are unlicensed tee-shirts, toys, and even socks, all featuring that toothsome little predator. In pink or blue that is. Therein began Lina’s near meltdown yesterday when she opened her gift from Nana and Pop Pops: a shark hand puppet in the elasmo branche’s original gray tone. That threw her toddler brain into a tizzy. Even at 20 months, this budding consumer knows that Baby Shark is NOT gray. Happily, great aunt D (moi) rushed in with a tee shirt and socks in the authentic hues. And did you know? On tiny hands, socks make a dandy substitute for a hand puppet! (Take that, Nana and Pop Pops!) The point is, though she be small, this dainty toddler is mighty. And she made her stand clear: she had been indoctrinated to a Baby Shark that was a certain way, and it was that way or the highway! Lina’s reaction may not have been articulate, but it was clear. Not pink or blue, no soap!
Advertisers have been influencing which products parents buy their children for decades. Hanna Barbera licensed its cartoon characters back in the 1960s. Soon children were willingly taking their vitamins- so long as mom and dad had bought them Flintstones, Yogi Bear, or The Jetsons brand! Disney came late to the party, but today not only licenses toys, but also clothing in both children’s and adult sizes as well. Throughout Disney parks (but not in their franchised stores) home decor items are displayed alongside toys so that everyone in the family can bring home a memento of their visit to the Magic, and Magically Marketed Kingdom.
As a delightful aside, in one scene from ‘A Christmas Story’, Ralphie saves box tops from a popular chocolate-flavored beverage then sends them to the manufacturer in exchange for a secret decoder pin from his favorite radio show, ‘Orphan Annie‘. Daily he visits the family mailbox, until one day, one day, his decoder ring arrives. That night, Ralphie listens to the radio broadcast, carefully scribes the code, ‘just for secret agents’, then retreats to the bathroom to decode the secret message in private. What is its message? “Be sure to drink your Ovaltine.” What Waaaaaah!
Some fine day (and for her parents, not a moment too soon). Lina will tire of Baby Shark. At that point, all things Baby Shark will be discarded in favor of some other item receiving airplay and sweeping the ranks of the playground set. All that is known is that it will be some trend whose collateral is widely available. Whatever it is will make her feel good about herself, or is some other way will fulfill a need, real or emotional. In that way, nothing has changed from 1958, the year I desperately wanted a 3-foot high Shirley Temple doll, but had to settle for an 18-inch version that did not break the family’s household budget. My response was to thank my parents ever so politely, then put dolly dearest on a shelf, never to be played with. Quietly I sulked and eventually moved on to the obtaining another object of desire.
Consumers may be wiser now, but we continue to allow outside influences to permeate our lives, and our children’s. We are not raising future consumers, however: through peer pressure, the internet, and the now standard advertising and marketing influences, they already are. BTW: Walking size or not, I still have my Shirley Temple doll! Still in her original box. Never played with. Might be worth something someday, ya never know!
The post The Rise of Baby Shark: Early Childhood Consumerism appeared first on Newton Search.
]]>