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Archive for 2013

Tuesday, June 4th, 2013

In today’s tough economy, it is not uncommon to face an insurmountable amount of debt. With home and car payments, in addition to debt from credit cards, student loans, and medical care, it is actually very easy for individuals to fall deep into a financial hole that they simply cannot dig out of. This is often how things like bankruptcy and foreclosure creep in. Bankruptcy is where consumers have the chance at a fresh financial start by wiping away most of their debts, but also suffering a blow to their future credit in the process.

Men and women can file for bankruptcy protection in a number of forms — the most common are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Knowing who can file for bankruptcy is key in determining whether this financial path is appropriate for you.

Let’s look at the two common types to explore who can file for bankruptcy and in what situations.

CHAPTER 7

Income Level

Because Chapter 7 bankruptcy wipes away most debt completely, a bankruptcy court will only allow those who honestly cannot pay their debts to reap its benefits. If you have a high income, you will not qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

A bankruptcy judge will look at your family’s income and compare it with the median income in your respective state. If your income is higher than the median, it’s unlikely you will be granted Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection.

Means Test

A means test also determines who can file for bankruptcy in Chapter 7 format. This determines whether or not you have disposable income or a way to scrounge up money to pay for your debt rather than have your debts discharged. If you have a lot of disposable income or big-ticket items you could sell, you might not qualify.

Have You Filed For Bankruptcy Recently?

If you had been granted a bankruptcy — Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 — in the last eight years, you will not qualify.

CHAPTER 13

If you did not qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy because of your income level or amount of disposable income, then you will still be able to receive Chapter 13 bankruptcy protection. This is for higher-income earners who are placed on a payment plan so they can pay off their debts rather than escape them completely. Consumers who file for this form of bankruptcy can still expect to take a financial hit, but in the long run, getting out of debt will present numerous financial advantages.

Seek Legal Help

Bankruptcy is not something you want to take on alone. Having quality legal counsel in your corner is imperative. TalkLocal can help you find a lawyer for these purposes. Simply type in a little bit about what you’re looking for, and we’ll have qualified lawyers calling you, ready to assist.

Posted in Lawyers - Bankruptcy | No Comments »

Ideas For Remodeling A Basement: Wall Decor

Monday, June 3rd, 2013

Remodeling a basement involves a lot of work. Picking out the style is fun, but putting it together can be a different story. When all of the tough stuff — putting down flooring, wiring for electricity, figuring out the plumbing — is said and done, you get to go back to the fun stuff: wall décor. Some of your ideas for remodeling a basement might include different wall décor possibilities, all of which allow you to exercise your creativity.

Some ideas for remodeling a basement include:

Painting the walls: When you are in a basement, you are most likely not going to have windows (definitely not large windows) to let in a lot of natural light. To avoid being overwhelmed by unnatural lighting or feeling like the room is too dark, try to pick out lighter colors. Lighter colors of paint will automatically lighten the room and help you feel more comfortable. If you’re dead set on using your favorite color, and that happens to be darker, try to use it as an accent and keep the lighter colors around.

Wallpaper: If you are using patterned wallpaper, make sure it isn’t overwhelming compared to the space of the basement. Being in a small basement surrounded by checkerboard might sound cool at first, but it may make you feel dizzy when all is said and done. Try to pick patterns that are aesthetically pleasing and make the room feel larger and more open.

Hanging artwork: Picking out wall décor to hang is always fun. When you’ve got a theme in mind, you’ll have a great time going to town at the mall and finding that piece of art that suits perfectly. When shopping, keep in mind the dimensions of your basement and try not to clutter the walls. Go for smaller pieces if you want multiples on one wall, or perhaps one larger piece with smaller accent pieces on opposite walls. Floating shelves also make great décor, and they allow the freedom to add whatever you choose and even make affordable changes to the theme as time goes by.

Find Help For The Project

Picking out décor is fun, but you may find you would like some help when it comes to actually securing it to the wall. For that, or other questions, TalkLocal can connect you with the professionals in your area who can help.

Posted in Painters | No Comments »

Rushing to Fort Wayne After the Flood to Help Residents and Donate to Someone in Urgent Need

Monday, June 3rd, 2013

Fort Wayne was hit hard by an overnight storm that drenched and drowned many parts of the city. Having recently launched in Indianapolis, Seva Man pressed the team to ramp up its efforts, and is now rushing to Fort Wayne after the flood. Now, Seva Call is not only ready to connect Fort Wayne residents to pros in over 50 service categories like Electricians, Carpet Cleaning, and Roofing, but Seva Man even bummed $25 off the team, so that he could give a gift card to the first resident to use Seva Call when booking any household repair. They need only enter the promo code #FortWayne next to their name to participate.

“We’re speeding up the launch because Fort Wayne needs a hero right now. If we didn’t step up, I’d have to hang my cape in shame”, Seva Man explained.

We’re Here to Help You Fort Wayne!

If you’re a Fort Wayne resident scrambling for help with a flooded basement, ruined carpet, downed trees, or any everyday service need at all, simply visit www.talklocal.com and enter your location, availability, and a description of the problem at hand. Then, Seva Call’s algorithm filters through local businesses and picks the best matches based on proximity, availability, the job needed, and even quality control measures like online consumer ratings and reviews, social media interactions, call analytics, and other forms of consumer and business feedback. Then, stand by to hear from the first of 3 top-rated professionals who already know the problem at hand and want to help on each consumer’s schedule. Plus, Seva Call keeps contact info private.

If booking a home repair, be sure to enter #FortWayne, and the first person to book a service using that promo code will get a free gift card for $25 once we obtain their mailing address.

“We’re a small company, but we do what we can to help”, Seva Call founder Gurpreet Singh explained.

To everyone affected by the recent flood, the Seva Call team wishes you all the best as you rebuild and look forward to working with you every step of the way.

Posted in Seva Call | No Comments »

Types Of Off Road Tires

Monday, June 3rd, 2013

It may surprise you to know there are a shockingly large amount of different types of off road tires on the market. From tall and wide to short and thin, and everything in between, off-road vehicle owners have a large selection to choose from when considering tires.

There are two basic tire structures that offer different benefits, but keep in mind that tires come in all shapes and sizes, so you can likely find the perfect one for your needs. Check out the following types of off road tires with a brief description of each in order to decide which tire is best for your vehicle.

Tall

Tall off road tires serve the primary purpose of keeping the vehicle high off the ground. In terrains with shallow mud and lots of rocks, staying high off the ground is ideal. The tall, thin structure of the tires allows them to reach to the bottom of the mud to gain traction on the solid ground. The wide grip patterns allow for the mud to pass through easily while in motion in order to maintain grip. The height helps protect the undercarriage of the vehicle to prevent damage.

Wide

Wide tires work best in thick, heavy mud. Their width creates a larger surface area, allowing for the weight of the vehicle to spread. This distribution prevents the vehicle from sinking (unlike the tall tires) in order to get over heavy mud more easily.

All-Terrain Tires

Most vehicles do not operate solely in off-road scenarios. If you use your vehicle to drive on the roads, while enjoying some off-roading in between, all-terrain tires are ideal. The interlocked tread of these tires allows for solid grip both on the pavement and on snow and mud.

Stuck?

If you have found yourself stuck in the mud and in need of a tow due to the wrong types of off road tires, Seva Call can help. We will find you a towing expert who can lead you to a station that will fit you with the correct tires. Our service is completely free, and we will only connect you with qualified professionals.

Posted in Towing | No Comments »

Ways To Aerate Your Lawn

Monday, June 3rd, 2013

Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy lawn full of thick grass that feels great underfoot. We buy the best fertilizers, water every week, and import the finest grass seeds from all over the world. But all this may come to nothing if the lawn is compacted from lawn equipment or excessive foot traffic. Compacted lawns inhibit water and oxygen from penetrating soil, which retards growth, causing bald patches or puddles in your beautiful yard. That’s why it’s valuable to be aware of the most effective ways to aerate your lawn.

First Thing’s First

The first step is to prepare your lawn for aeration by watering it two to three days before you begin. Depending on your climate, about one inch of water is best. How do you know how much is an inch? Try measuring it by placing a small container on your lawn — a tuna can is great for this. When it fills up an inch, voila! After your waiting period, you are ready to aerate. The various ways to aerate your lawn vary based on your equipment.

Motorized aerators are great for professional groundskeepers and are offered in gas or electric models. They get the job done quickly — at roughly the speed of a lawn mower — punching multiple steel spikes into the ground from a rotating cylinder. They are also expensive, heavy and take up more storage space than the average family garage can offer.

Manual aerators have several tines attached to a steel bar. They aerate by coring small sections of lawn. Pay close attention to the design and look for one that won’t clog or clump. Clogs will prove frustrating and time consuming. Manual aerating can be labor intensive, especially for large lawns. If this is an issue, look to a manual aerator with spiked attachments that can be worn on shoes. Aeration is then as easy as slowly and awkwardly marching across every inch of your lawn. It’ll be worth it when the grass comes in, though. Manual aerators vary greatly in price, materials, and design, so tread carefully.

Find Professionals To Aerate Your Lawn

In the end, knowing the ways to aerate your lawn is less important than getting out there and doing it. You may be amazed to see how much of a difference a little aeration can make in your yard this spring. Plenty of local landscapers can pull off this important task, too. At Seva Call, you can specify that you want to work with only landscapers that offer aeration. That way, you won’t waste your time talking to companies that can’t help you. Try our service today, for free!

Posted in Landscapers | No Comments »

What To Do When Your Dog Eats Rock Salt

Monday, June 3rd, 2013

In an attempt to keep ourselves from falling on ice, we may actually be harming our pets. Rock salt is the most common form of de-icer used on walkways and driveways.

While it can help melt ice quickly, pets can walk across the material and subsequently lick their paws to prevent irritation. Once ingested, rock salt can have some harmful effects. Here is what to do when your dog eats rock salt:

Call Your Vet — Immediately

The following information is a general guideline and should not be taken as expert advice. If you have a regular vet for your pet, most will answer questions over the phone without the need for an expensive office visit. It is important to consult with your vet if you are worried about the health of your dog.

Monitor Your Pet

If you know how much salt was ingested and it was only a small amount, your dog may only have a few adverse effects. Excessive drooling is a sign of nausea, and your pet may also have burns in his or her mouth. If you notice more severe symptoms, it could be time to act. You can try Famotidine which helps reduce the stomach acid. Get the highest rated Famotidine for Dogs shipped overnight from Amazon starting at $7.10.

Make sure your dog has water, as the rock salt can dehydrate him or her.

When Your Dog Ingests A Medium-Sized Amount Of Rock Salt:

In medium-sized amounts, your dog may vomit repeatedly. This is due to the irritation of the stomach lining. In large dogs, an adult dose of Pepto-Bismol may be given to help soothe the stomach, but, again, double-check with your vet first. Let the dog fast for around 24 hours until the vomiting ceases, then start him or her on a salt-free broth.

Large Amount:

In large amounts, rock salt can be deadly. It can affect the pancreas, liver, and kidneys, or it can severely dehydrate the animal. If your dog drank from a puddle of melted snow that contained rock salt, it is likely he or she ingested a large amount. Seek vet care immediately. If your dog is showing stomach pain, you can try some of these medications that help with stomach relief for dogs. You can find some options and have it shipped overnight starting at $7.49.

TalkLocal Makes Finding A Vet Fast And Free

To get in touch with a vet in your area who can tell you what to do when your dog eats rock salt, TalkLocal provides a free locator service. We’ll connect you with a local vet within minutes. Every second counts when your pet’s health is on the line.

Posted in Veterinarians | No Comments »

Ideas For Remodeling A Basement: Flooring

Monday, June 3rd, 2013

Oftentimes, before you finish your basement, you have a plain, concrete floor. Although this flooring has many benefits (such as being spill-proof and easy to clean), you may want to change things up for your basement’s final look. These flooring ideas for remodeling a basement offer the look you want in a way that is easy and affordable while you are remodeling.

Ideas for remodeling a basement floor when concrete isn’t your motif of choice include:

Carpeting: If you want your basement carpeted, you’re not alone. This is becoming one of the most popular choices when homeowners remodel their basements. However, not all carpeting is created equally, especially in a room that is likely to gather moisture. This can damage carpeting. The best type of carpet for your basement is largely considered to be low-pile and looped style carpets. Consider a partial nylon blend and stay away from the shag if you’re adding carpet to your basement.

Vinyl: Although it is not the most popular, many designers agree that vinyl is the best choice for remodeling a basement floor. Vinyl is moisture-proof, which is vital for your basement, and it comes in large sheets that virtually eliminate the annoyance of seams in the flooring. It installs easily over concrete floors; however, if there are any blemishes in your flooring, the vinyl won’t hide them. You may consider a thicker cut if you’re in that situation. There are also dozens and dozens of styles and patterns to choose from with your vinyl flooring, allowing you to truly make the look your own and hatch many ideas for remodeling a basement.

Faux Wood: If you’re in love with the look of wood flooring, you might be hoping to add that to your basement. Unfortunately, the cost of adding a true wood floor to your basement alongside the risks of moisture is too much for many. Consider the faux wood look. This is basically a system of tile flooring that looks just like wood flooring and snaps into place on top of the concrete. It looks great and suits a basement, as it usually has a thin layer of vinyl beneath to remain moisture proof. It’s also much more affordable.

Can’t Decide?

All of these options and more can help you finish your basement the way you want. If you have more questions or concerns, TalkLocal can help connect you to any local professional imaginable. From carpet cleaners to professionals that can install faux wood flooring, just tell us what you need and we’ll do the rest.

Posted in Carpet Cleaners | 1 Comment »

How To Tow A Boat With A Car

Sunday, June 2nd, 2013

With the seasons changing and sunnier weather coming for most of us, a lot of people are getting out their swim suits and fishing gear to soak up some sun on one of nature’s most versatile recreational options: the water.

Whether you live near an ocean, lake, pond, or a good drive from all of the above, everyone can enjoy the summer sun with a boat in tow. Knowing how to tow a boat with a car can increase your list of options for summer fun.

Some need-to-know-facts about how to tow a boat with a car:

Weight: Make sure your car is not too small or too light to handle the weight of the boat. Ideally, your vehicle will be heavier than the boat you’re towing. This means that pulling the boat won’t max out the car, turning will be smooth, and your car won’t be pushed around by the boat. If your car isn’t heavier than the boat, you should still be okay, as long as it isn’t a great deal lighter.

Torque: You want to make sure your vehicle can handle the boat despite the weight. Those trucks that boast their horsepower aren’t necessarily the top contenders for boat towing. Torque is what is important. Torque is the maximum of rational power an engine can exert. If your car has enough torque to exert the power necessary to pull the boat, you’re fine. Some smaller vehicles are more capable of that.

Attachment: You need to make sure the trailer you’re using for the boat is safely attached to whatever vehicle you’re using to tow it. No, tying the trailer to your bumper is not acceptable. Vehicles that are considered to be suitable for towing will usually have a hitch or some other form of attachment available.

Where Can I Find Towing Professionals?

For more information about whether your vehicle is acceptable, you may need to consult a professional. TalkLocal can connect you to professionals in your area instantly — and for free. That way, you can get yourself situated on the water in your boat with a glass of lemonade ready for a whole lot of relaxing.

Posted in Towing | No Comments »

What Can Be Disposed In A Dumpster

Sunday, June 2nd, 2013

Disposing of large piles of waste is not fun. Going through trash bags, organizing, and piling the waste can take a lot of time. If you have to take special measures to dispose of the waste after all of that, you could have a serious project on your hands.

Thankfully, a lot of your typical household waste can be disposed of in a dumpster. If you are wondering what can be disposed in a dumpster, check out this quick guide.

What can be disposed in a dumpster?

General Household Waste

Anything you throw out in your kitchen or bathroom trash. This includes spoiled food, drink and food packages, remnants of a mess, old cotton swabs and so on. If you find yourself with a full bag of garbage, or even a few, you can tie them off and toss them in your local dumpster worry-free.

Various Household Items

Glass jars, shampoo bottles, packaging from mail, old light bulbs, old pillows and blankets, clothing — all of this can be legally tossed in a dumpster. That said, there are other ways to dispose of these items that might be a better choice.

If you can donate old pillows, blankets and clothing, you should. Recycling anything that can be recycled is also preferential. Typically, items in a dumpster are collected and thrown in a landfill. Although this is unavoidable for some items, it really helps for other things to be donated.

Woodwork

If you have small tables, chairs, stools, picture frames, shelves, and other items made of wood, and you can’t recycle them for whatever reason, they can be tossed in the dumpster, too. If you can, try to break them down to conserve space.

These, and many other items, can be disposed in publicly provided dumpsters (for those that live in an apartment complex or other shared living spaces) or in privately rented dumpsters. Honestly, the list of what cannot be disposed in a dumpster is much shorter than the list of what can be disposed in a dumpster.

You will need to avoid throwing electronics, batteries, and anything really heavy or dangerous in a dumpster. Most other items are dumpster-friendly, but may also be recyclable.

Contact Garbage Removal Companies

If you have more questions, TalkLocal can help connect you with the local professionals who have answers. Finding local garbage removal professionals should not be hard. With TalkLocal, it’s never been easier.

Posted in Garbage Removal | 1 Comment »

Postural Integration Therapy

Sunday, June 2nd, 2013

With so many types of massages and physical therapy available, figuring out how to help your back pain and body aches can be almost as painful as the aches and pains themselves. Sometimes the solution is as simple as fixing your posture. That said, just sitting up straighter doesn’t always solve things, and sometimes it even hurts more.

Postural integration therapy (PIT) is a form of massage therapy meant to help you “straighten out” your postural habits to live a healthier, pain-free life.

What happens in postural integration therapy?

– Your therapist will work with the fascial planes of your body. No, that doesn’t mean your face. “Fascia” is a type of tissue that wraps around your muscles and is malleable, like plastic. It holds your muscles together in bundles.

– Fascia molds to hold your muscles in a position built from your daily life experiences. That means if you are constantly hunched over, even though that’s really bad for your body, your fascia grows used to it. So, when you try to sit up straight, you’re actually straining your muscles against the “plastic” that has held them in one position for so long.

– It’s kind of like if you take a 12-inch ruler made of plastic and bend it every day. Eventually, it will just stay in that bent position, even though you know it is supposed to be straight. When you try to straighten it, you can’t do that very easily, because the plastic is now used to the new position and fights against the change.

– In postural integration therapy, your therapist works in steps to fight this unhealthy position your muscles have gotten used to holding. This is not a one-time thing; you come back for multiple visits, getting better little by little.

– Unlike some types of massage therapy, postural integration therapy is not intended to feel relaxing. You are doing work to your muscles to get them back to a healthy state. It’s kind of like how going for a run or working out doesn’t necessarily feel good because you’re pushing your body and exerting yourself. Afterwards, though, you do tend to feel better and healthier.

Find PIT In Your Area

Not all massage therapists are trained in PIT. You need to make sure you find a professional that knows what he or she is doing and can actually help you. TalkLocal can connect you to the professionals in your area who can help you get your posture back and make your muscles love their healthy, natural position.

Posted in Massage Therapy | No Comments »

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