Hurricane Helene Leaves Catastrophic Damage Across Several States: Here’s How To Help

From Southern Living (10/1/24) “At least 160 people have died across Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Hurricane Helene made landfall last Thursday night as a category 4 hurricane near Perry, Florida, in the state’s Big Bend region. As of Tuesday afternoon, CNN reports that at least 160 have died as a direct result of the storm.

Several small communities like Cedar Key and Keaton Beach saw widespread damage but so too did larger cities like Tampa and Tallahassee. But Helene didn’t stop there. It then moved north into Georgia and despite it being an inland, large metro area, Atlanta took a direct hit which caused widespread, dangerous flooding. 

Bob Van Dillen of FOX Weather was reporting live from Atlanta when a woman drove her car into the flooded waters and she became distressed. Van Dillen abandoned the live shot to go rescue the scared woman. 

Helene continued on her path of mass destruction through the Carolinas and eastern Tennessee. Water rescues were needed throughout all five states the storm hit. But western North Carolina and the city of Asheville in particular have taken maybe the biggest hit. Widespread flooding throughout the area has wiped out roads and power. 

Saturday morning, the North Carolina Department of Transportation posted on X that over 400 roads in North Carolina are closed and “all of western North Carolina should be considered closed.”

One thing is clear, so many of our neighbors, across all five states, will need our help for a long time to come. Below we have provided a list of trusted, vetted organizations who already have teams on the ground doing the work should you be in a place to donate. Some are also looking for volunteers. “

For more information: Hurricane Helene Leaves Catastrophic Damage: Here’s How To Help

---

America’s Blood Supply Is ‘Critically Low’ With Lower Donor Turnout & Recent Hurricanes

From Southern Living, “The American Red Cross announced that the supply has fallen nearly 25% since August. If you’ve been thinking about donating blood, now is a great time to support your community.”

For more information: America’s Blood Supply Is Critically Low

A Second Chance

Although it was long past her bedtime, Sophie couldn’t sleep. She climbed out of bed and quietly crept to the living room. She saw her tired mom sitting with a huge smile while reading a book, with a basket of unfolded laundry at her feet.

Hearing Sophie enter, her mom looked up and said, “A book by Erma Bombeck,” already knowing what Sophie was about to ask because moms just know. She patted the couch next to her, smiled when Sophie plopped down, and started reading aloud:

“If I had my life to live over, I would spend more time listening and less talking. I would spend more time on loved ones and less on work. Spend more time living in my living space and less cleaning it. Spend more time learning from the older people in my life and less trying to convince them I already know it all.”

She reached over and patted Sophie’s shiny curls.

“I would spend more time with the windows rolled down and less worrying about mussing my hair. I would spend more time having fun and less being practical. Spend more time finding joy in each moment, spend more time on love and forgiveness, and less on anger and insults. Most of all, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute … look at it and really see it … live it … and never give it back.”

Glancing over, she saw Sophie’s eyes closing. Instead of putting her back to bed, she pulled her daughter close and breathed in the moment. The laundry could wait.

~ Elisa McNinch, Realtor

 

---

Our Featured Listings

The Houston housing market is soft but seems to be strengthening especially as buyers are beginning to surface again since the FED dropped the interest rate mid-September. If  you are searching for a Realtor to help you list or buy a home, we encourage you to give us a call to see if we are the “right” agent for you.  

Take a look at our Featured Listings below:

If you would like to search the Houston MLS system for your next property, click on the Home button on the top menu bar to navigate the main BrunerTeam website.

Note: We are taking new listings all of the time. 

ACTIVE LISTINGS:

• 16222 Lakeview in Jersey Village (77040) –  FOR SALE $330,000 –www.har.com/75675777 – 2-story cottage-style home, built in 1977, 1962sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, & 2-car detached garage. Amenities: Never flooded, on same power grid as JVPD & JVFD, interior & exterior paint (2024), Carpet (2024), garage door opener (2024), side & rear fences (2020 & 2024), new gas line (2021). Video: https://youtu.be/O3x1OjywYPw
• 16405 De Lozier in Jersey Village (77040) –  NEW PRICE $399,900 –www.har.com/75055254 – Charming contemporary, 1-story home, built in 1977, 2271sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, & 2 car garage with carport. Located on a quiet street. Roof with warranty (7/12/24), PEX plumbing (2022), Double pane low-E windows (2020), Generac whole-house generator (2021), High-efficiency AC (2022), Hardie board siding, Wood-like porcelain tile flooring & MORE!  Video: https://youtu.be/dh3ItB0yRVQ
• 15806 Tenbury in Jersey Village (77040) –  NEW PRICE $399,900 – www.har.com/56521408 –  2-story, 2576sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 3 car garage. Double pane Low-E windows; Replumbed w/ PEX plumbing (no galvanized pipes); Home roof (2023) & Garage roof (2009); Electrical panel replaced, relocated, & 220 outlet added (2009); 15 SEER 5-ton HVAC; Water heater; Hardie siding. Video: https://youtu.be/4Ed7yoifOvo  
• 16409 Jersey Hollow in Wyndham Village (77040) – FOR SALE $599,900 – www.har.com/94173578 –  2-story, 3727sqft, 4-5 bedrooms, 3 baths, gameroom,  oversized 2 car garage, & porte corchere. 1st floor primary bedroom. Study (or bedroom 5) & full bath on 1st floor. Amenities: Roof (2021), 2 zoned HVAC systems, 2- water heaters, hardwood floors, EV outlet in garage. No rear neighbors. Not in 100-yr flood plain (according to survey). Video: https://youtu.be/RuDvb6N7jXM 
• 5505 Hardy St in Ryon (77009) – FOR SALE $207,000 – www.har.com/97581240  – 5,000sqft lot ready to be built on. Lot is 50ft wide x 100ft deep. No HOA. No MUD. Low tax rate. 

 MULTIPLE OPEN HOUSES IN THE CITY OF JERSEY VILLAGE  Join us on SUNDAY, 10/6 FROM 1-3PM as listing agents collaborate to have their homes open to the public. You are even encouraged to “make a day of it,” if you’d like, by attending the Jersey Village Farmer’s Market (11am-2pm) and then drop by to take a look at our remarkable listings. You & your family can tour homes of varying sizes, amenities, & price points. If you’ve been searching for your perfect home in the City of Jersey Village, come take a look at our incredible properties and all this community has to offer. Don’t miss this opportunity! 

My following listings will be open on Sun, 10/6 from 1-3PM:

• 16222 Lakeview
• 15806 Tenbury
• 16405 De Lozier
• 16409 Jersey Hollow

PENDING LISTINGS:

• 1726 Summerlyn Terrace in Spring Branch (77080) –  FOR LEASE $2,500 – www.har.com/56944449 Pulte Home, 2-story, 1990sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage. Gated community. Amenities: Built 2021 with lots of energy features including double pane windows, radiant barrier, high efficiency HVAC, & more. Annual HOA dues include access gate, water, sewer, trash, common grounds.  Video: https://youtu.be/yK0NKUU3CgU
• 8826 Fairbloom in Rolling Fork (77040) –  FOR SALE $317,000 – www.har.com/31442496  – Multiple Offers – 1-story home, built 1993, 2093sqft, 3 bedrooms, study, 2 baths, & 2-car attached garage. David Weekley home with gorgeous park-like backyard. Amenities: Roof (2009), 4-ton AC (2017), Hardie board (2011), furnace (2015), whole-house surge protector (2022), Leaf Guard gutters, sprinkler system, tile or wood laminate flooring (no carpet), convection ovens, granite countertops, gas cooktop (2009), high ceilings, & more.  Video: https://youtu.be/1ilLWY–jME 

---

50th Texas Renaissance Festival

“Join us this year for the 50th Annual Texas Renaissance Festival!  

Huzzah and welcome to the Texas Renaissance Festival, a grand spectacle that transports visitors to an era of chivalry, merriment, and enchantment. Nestled in the heart of Texas, we are the largest and most acclaimed Renaissance-themed attraction in the United States. Whether one is donned in period garb or simply a curious spectator in one’s favorite tee shirt and jeans, the Texas Renaissance Festival promises an unforgettable journey into the magic and splendor of the Renaissance era.

2024 Dates: Weekends, October 12th through December 1st and Thanksgiving Friday”

For more information & themed weekends: Texas Renaissance Festival

---

These Famous Phrases Came From Sailors

Sailing ships were the cutting-edge technology of the 18th century, and the shipbuilding boom spawned many phrases we still use today.

Loose cannon: Today, an unpredictable person. Then, a literal unsecured big iron tube that was going to hit something and cause a lot of pain.

Batten down the hatches: Today, get ready for trouble. Then, literally, get an iron bar to cover the door of a ship for terrible weather.

All hands on deck: Today, there’s a problem and we need everyone here now. Then, the same, except an actual ship’s deck.

Show one’s true colors: Today, a dishonest person who reveals who they really are. Then, a ship flying a fake flag to confuse enemies, pretty much the same thing.

Learn the ropes: Today, learn the rules and skills of a job. Then, literally, learn how to tie and use ropes.

---

Monthly Recipe:  Candy Bar Caramel Apples

From Land O’Lakes, “These apples are dipped in fudgy caramel and then into your favorite chopped candy bar. What a treat!

This recipe got RAVE reviews.

For more go to:  Candy Bar Caramel Apples

On a side note as we are coming up on the holidays this is a good time to start thinking about and testing your holiday meal ideas.

---

 October Dates

October 4, National Taco Day – Celebrate with delicious tacos of all kinds!

October 10, World Mental Health Day – An internationally recognized day that aims to raise awareness about mental health issues, promote mental well-being, and advocate for improved support and resources.

October 16, World Food Day – A day established by the United Nations to highlight the importance of food security and sustainable agriculture, with a focus on combating hunger and malnutrition.

October 31, Halloween – Enjoy spooky costumes, trick-or-treating, and festive decorations.

---

October 2024 Happenings In Houston

Take a look at some events and activities Houston offer. Take a look at The Hobby Center; Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion; The Alley Theater; Toyota Center, Theater Under The Stars; Houston Zoo; Houston Symphony; Houston Ballet, Miller Outdoor Theater; Wortham Theater; Jones Hall;  N.A.S.A & Space Center Houston; Art Car Museum; Arboretum & Nature Center; Natural Science Museum; Kemah Boardwalk; & SO MUCH MORE! Take a look at some of the events in the links below for you, your family, & friends to enjoy in Houston & the surrounding areas:

   Southern Living: 20 Best Things To Do In Houston

Visit Houston: October Events in Houston 2024

Houston Mom’s: Happenings in Houston in October

Kids Out and About.com: October activities in & around Houston

  101 Family Day Trips Around Houston

---

AI, On The Go

Ten years ago, the notion of having a powerful and complex AI program might have seemed like science fiction. But soon it will fit in your pocket because Apple is partnering with ChatGPT to bring AI to iPhones.

Apple Intelligence, unveiled at June’s Worldwide Developers Conference, has generated ample buzz by allowing users to use native AI on Apple’s powerful proprietary chips.

Typically, AI tools are accessed via the internet: Users connect with the AI tool provider’s servers, which can do all the heavy lifting to make the AI actually work. Apple Intelligence, however, will allow users to use it right on their phones.

Apple Intelligence can be used to write, proofread, and summarize text, which is ideal for composing emails and articles. It can also be used as a research tool for tasks such as troubleshooting a problem with your swimming pool pump or your website code.

You can also create images, monitor your emails, and more. In some cases, however, Apple might ask to send specific requests to ChatGPT. Doing so would allow iPhone and Mac users to tap into powerful servers when necessary.

 Apple has been slow to roll out its own AI solutions compared to Microsoft and Google. However, the timing put Apple in a prime position to study AI’s problem areas and learn from mistakes. In the meantime, Apple has bought more than 24 AI companies, and CEO Tim Cook has argued that AI will play an integral role in many of the company’s products.

Apple Intelligence will be ready this fall. Among the iPhones already on the market, only the 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max will get it. The platform will also be available on Mac computers with an M1 or newer processor.

---

Houston Hits: Houston Ghost Tour

As I love history, and Houston is filled with all sorts of interesting history, I thought I would share this tour with you as October is the perfect time to take a Ghost Tour. From Houston Hits, “As an expert with plenty of experience in exploring ghost towns, I am delighted to share with you the best ghost towns in Houston. Get ready to embark on a lighthearted journey through time as we explore these intriguing abandoned locations.

With my thorough research and firsthand knowledge, I have handpicked the most unique and fascinating ghost towns for you to discover. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a paranormal believer, or simply seeking an offbeat adventure, these ghost towns near me will surely captivate your imagination.

So buckle up, ghost hunters, and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the unknown!”

For more information: Best Ghost Town in Houston

---

Halloween: Dressing Up On The Cheap

Have the price tags on Halloween costumes caused a scare? You’re not alone. Halloween costumes can get quite pricey, especially given that the outfits will likely get worn only a few times. And many children will quickly outgrow their Halloween costumes, meaning you may have to shell out for a new costume every year. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to lower Halloween costume and decoration costs.

• You can make many great costumes and decorations yourself, spending only a few dollars on supplies.
• Seasonal products often come at a premium due to high demand. Sometimes you can find great costumes outside of the Halloween section.
• After Halloween wraps up, you can often find awesome costumes on the cheap. The same is true for Halloween decorations. Instead of waiting until next year, pick up some stuff this November.
• Thrift stores often put together Halloween collections where you can find costumes, props, and costume-ready clothing pieces.

---

Houston Hits: Best Haunted Houses

From Houston Hits, “Welcome to the spooky realm of Houston, where ghosts, goblins, and ghouls await! With my insider knowledge and mischievous sense of adventure, I have scoured the city to bring you the very best haunted houses that will give you chills and thrills like never before.

From eerie mansions to bone-chilling asylums, I have personally reviewed a whopping 15 haunted houses to ensure that only the spookiest and most hair-raising experiences make it onto this list. So grab your bravest friends, prepare for heart-stopping scares, and let’s dive into the best haunted houses in Houston – if you dare!”

For more information: Absolute Best Haunted Houses In Houston

---

Did Thomas Edison Invent The Modern Job Interview?

Thomas Edison, the genius behind the light bulb, batteries, and motion pictures, also had a knack for revolutionizing job interviews. Imagine being interviewed by the man himself. Sounds electrifying, right?

Edison wasn’t your typical mad scientist working alone in a secret lab. With more than 10,000 employees throughout various companies, he needed the best minds for his cutting-edge projects. Enter the Edison Tests—detailed questionnaires focusing beyond mere technical skills.

Edison’s interviews were anything but ordinary. Picture this: He serves you a bowl of soup. If you salt it before tasting it, he marks you as someone who jumps to conclusions— not what he wanted in a meticulous researcher.

Back in his day, employers rarely considered personality fit. Edison, however, was ahead of his time. His 140-question test required a whopping 90% to pass. In 1921, only 32 of 718 candidates succeeded. Even Einstein stumbled on this one!

Edison might have also accidentally invented news leaks. After his test was leaked to the New York Times, he had to rewrite the whole thing. Talk about unintended innovation!

Edison’s approach to hiring—blending technical know-how with personality insights—has shaped today’s job interview. So next time you’re prepping for an interview, remember: You might have Edison to thank for those quirky questions!

---

Autumn Wellness Tips

Autumn is the perfect time to focus on your wellness because the season can bring a change in weather and routine.

Embrace Seasonal Foods: Incorporate into your meals the bounty of seasonal produce, such as squash, sweet potatoes, apples, and pears. These foods are rich in vitamins and other nutrients that can help boost your immune system and keep you feeling satisfied.

Layer For Outdoor Activities: Don’t let the cooler temperatures keep you indoors. Layering allows you to stay warm and comfortable while enjoying outdoor activities.

Enjoy Warm Beverages: Swap your usual cold drinks for warm beverages that can provide comfort and hydration. Herbal teas, warm apple cider, and even a homemade chai latte can be soothing, enjoyable, and hydrating.

Practice Mindfulness: Take a few moments each day to appreciate the beauty of the changing season. Whether it’s through a mindful walk, meditation, or simply sitting quietly with a warm drink, these moments of mindfulness can reduce stress and enhance your overall well-being.

Set A Gentle Routine: With the hustle and bustle of the season, setting a gentle and flexible routine can help you stay balanced. Prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation, and don’t be afraid to adjust your schedule, if needed. A balanced routine can help you manage stress and maintain a sense of calm.

You can enjoy a healthy and vibrant autumn season by subtly incorporating these tips into your routine.

---

Southern Living: 14 Good Luck Plants To Bring Positive Energy To Your Home

From Southern Living, “These plants will have you feeling lucky.

Judging by many of our traditions, Southerners will always hedge our bets for a happy and successful life. From eating a big bowl of Hoppin’ John on New Year’s Day to burying a bottle of bourbon before the wedding day, we don’t mind putting in the effort to bring on good tidings for the future. As take-charge as we are superstitious, why risk it when it’s something that is relatively no trouble to do?

In the spirit of being ready to try any easy task that promises karmic reward, it’s helpful to know that even plants can make a potential difference. There are certain houseplants that are lucky and flower types that are particularly known for bringing good luck, fortune, and prosperity to the home, and you don’t need to have a green thumb to test out the theory. But keep in mind that these plants do need good care. You don’t want the bad energy a dying plant can bring.

Here are 14 good luck plants to hopefully bring success and serendipity to your home, or to give as a gift to others.”

---

  Houston Housing Market Review

Multiple Listing Service of the Houston Association of REALTORS® includes residential properties and new homes listed by 50,000 REALTORS®

HOUSTON HOUSING INVENTORY HITS HIGHEST LEVEL IN A DECADE AS HOME SALES SLOW IN AUGUST

For a DETAILED review from the Houston Association of Realtors, take a look at their comprehensive review posted at https://www.har.com/content/department/mls

---

Quotes

If in the last few years you haven’t discarded a major opinion or acquired a new one, check your pulse, you may be dead. -Frank Gelett Burgess

One is taught by experience to put a premium on those few people who can appreciate you for what you are. -Gail Godwin

Skill without imagination is craftsmanship and gives us many useful objects such as wickerwork picnic baskets; imagination without skill gives us modern art. -Tom Stoppard

Sometimes our light goes out but is blown into flame by another human being. Each of us owes deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this light. -Albert Schweitzer

There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find ways in which you yourself have altered. -Nelson Mandela

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new lands, but in seeing with new eyes. -Marcel Proust

Some things never change … There will always be grief and laughter, fear and courage. It’s up to us to decide on which of these things we will focus. -Nancy B. Gibbs

---

 September 2024 Trivia Answer

Question: What is the only country in the world that has a flag with a design that is not rectangular or square? 

Answer:  Nepal

Congratulations to Patricia Fairley! 

Your name was randomly selected from all of the correct entries. You’ve won a $50 gift card to one of the following: Amazon.com, Target, Khol’s, Bed, Bath, & Beyond, Home Depot, Academy, Petsmart, Outback, Carrabba’s Italian, Texas Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden, Domino’s Pizza, Papa John’s, Chili’s, Red Robin, Panera’s, OR IHOP.  IT’S YOUR CHOICE!

October 2024 Trivia Question

Question:  What popular fall treat was originally created as a way to use up excess corn syrup and sugar during the late 1800s?

Everyone who contacts Elisa via email (Elisa@BrunerTeam.com) or phone (832-746-7911) with the correct answer by October 25th will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card to one of the following: Amazon.com, Target, Khol’s, Bed, Bath, & Beyond, Home Depot, Academy, Petsmart, Outback, Carrabba’s Italian, Texas Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden, Domino’s Pizza, Papa John’s, Chili’s, Red Robin, Panera’s, OR IHOP.  It’s your choice!

---

  Facebook Page

Dear Readers,

You are welcome to check out my business Facebook page where I post our latest listings as well as real estate tips, etc throughout the month. Just go to  ElisaMcNinchRE. 

And as always, thank you for allowing me to be your real estate consultant for life. I love what I do because of clients like YOU! 

– Elisa McNinch, Realtor