Category: Other

The 3G shutdown– These devices may stop working 

man looking at a smartphone with no network connection

While you don’t always need the latest and greatest tech gadgets, there are times when the need to upgrade is essential. This is the case for many people, with cellular networks phasing out the 3G standard. Older smartphones will lose most of their essential functions, including the ability to make and receive calls and texts.

The 3G shutdown will also affect many car models that rely on a network connection for features like GPS, voice assistants and emergency call services. Tap or click here for more details on how your car may be affected.

It doesn’t stop there, either. The shutdown will impact virtually any connected device running solely on a 3G network. Read on for details and tips on how to avoid being left behind.

3G is going extinct in 2022

With billions of smartphones out there, many people will first feel the impact of the 3G shutdown. Cellular networks began deploying 4G LTE networks in 2010 and phone manufacturers followed with compatible models.

More than a decade later, the three biggest providers have announced they’re phasing out 3G networks in 2022:

  • AT&T said it will shut down 3G networks in February.
  • Verizon said it will pull the plug on 3G on December 31.
  • T-Mobile said it will shut down Sprint 3G networks on March 31. T-Mobile’s own 3G networks will be gone by July 1.

There’s only so much wireless spectrum and infrastructure out there, so the old must be cleared to make way for the new. As 3G phases out, newer 4G and 5G networks will see improvements in performance.

If you use an iPhone 5 or older, you’re out of luck. The same goes for Samsung phones preceding the Droid Charge. If your Amazon Kindle uses AT&T’s Whispernet service, it’ll also be bricked.

Luckily, many cellphone companies are offering special upgrade incentives and pricing if you need a new phone. Check with your provider for any available 3G retirement plans. They can also tell you if your phone will be affected.

Did your car make the list?

Newer cars are adapting 4G and 5G connectivity for safety and convenience features. That’s not to say you’ll have to ditch your 3G-only capable vehicle. In some cases, you may be able to get an update, though you may be charged for it or even face a subscription fee.

Popular car models from major manufacturers will be affected, including the 2014-2017 Acura MDX, 2013-2018 Audi A4/Allroad, 2018-2020 Honda Accord (Touring trim), all Lexus models produced from 2010-2017, Tesla Model S vehicles produced before June 2015, and the 2013-2017 Toyota Camry, among others. See a more comprehensive list here.

Beyond phones and cars

Virtually any connected device running solely on a 3G network will be affected by the shutdown. Even with Wi-Fi support, use will be limited. The FCC lists tablets, home security, smartwatches and medical devices among the impacted groups of devices. If your 3G device uses cellular connectivity as a backup when its wired network connection goes down, it will also cease to function properly.

Some of the newest medical devices still run on 3G and even 2G networks, since they are cheaper to produce. Contact the manufacturer of your device via their official website or phone number. If you have to upgrade, make sure that 4G support is included.

The FCC’s Lifeline program can assist low-income consumers with phone and internet services with a discount. Go to fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers for more information.

The FCC’s Emergency Broadband Benefit Program provides a discount of up to $50 per month for broadband service. A one-time discount of $100 for a computer or tablet is also available. 

The change is coming whether you like it or not and it’s coming soon. Start getting ready now.

🚨 What it means for you

The 3G shutdown will be far-reaching and impact a lot more than just your cellphone. If you have older internet-connected devices at home, expect at least some of them to lose important features that rely on a cell connection.

✅ Use a connected medical device? Contact your doctor or the manufacturer to check if there is any upgrade you need to make now.

✅ As with any big development in the tech world, you can bet scammers will jump on it. Be wary of emails, texts and letters from companies saying you need to take action. A reputable company will never ask for your personal details unprompted. If you receive a notification, contact the company through another means to confirm it is legitimate.

By Albert Khoury, KOMANDO.COM

Source: The 3G shutdown impacts more than just your phone (komando.com)

How to Make the Perfect Charcuterie Board

charcuterie board idea spread
MIKE GARTEN. FOOD STYLING: CHRISTINE ALBANO. PROP STYLING ALEX MATA

What is charcuterie?

Those pretty meat and cheese boards you see all over social media are a trend that actually originated with meat spreads in 15th-century France. The definition of charcuterie is “the culinary art of preparing meat products,” according to The Organic Kitchen. Charcuterie was actually developed out of necessity — it’s the way meats were preserved long before refrigeration came about.

How is charcuterie pronounced?

Pronounced shahr-ku-tuh-ree, the word “charcuterie” is French for “pork butcher shop.” The more you know!

Charcuterie boards are trending online and on social media, and for good reason: They’re pleasing to look at and even more satisfying to eat. As a party appetizer option, meat and cheese boards are extremely versatile. (For vegetarians and vegans, charcuterie boards these days don’t necessarily have to include meat or cheese, FYI.) 

What makes charcuterie boards so ideal is that they can be completely customized for any occasion or celebration, big or small, and you can put virtually anything on one. Here, you’ll find answers to all your charcuterie questions, plus tons of unique charcuterie board ideas for you to try out the next time you host — from festive platters that will feed a crowd at Christmas, to simple spreads for two that make the perfect starter for a romantic date night dinner.

Craving even more inspiration? Check out our picks for where to buy the best charcuterie boards and serving accessories online, plus Instagram accounts to follow for step-by-step tutorials, fresh ideas, and pictures that will have you making heart eyes for days. What are you waiting for? Let’s get into it.

YIELDS:8 – 10 servings PREP TIME: 30 mins TOTAL TIME: 30 mins

INGREDIENTS:

8 oz.  Gruyère cheese, sliced

8 oz. Roquefort cheese, sliced

1/4 lb. sliced mortadella

1/4 lb. sliced Genoa salami 

1/4 lb. thinly sliced prosciutto 

1 apple, thinly sliced 

4 oz. caramelized pecans 

1 package thin breadsticks 

1 bunch Concord grapes 

1/2 c. Castelvetrano olives 

1 recipe marinated mushrooms 

1 recipe spinach-artichoke dip

Dried mangoes

Dried cherries

Dried peaches

Dried plums 

8 oz. feta cheese

Garlic chile oil, for drizzling over feta 

6 oz. Gouda, sliced 

1/4 lb. soppressata, sliced 

1 bunch Champagne grapes 

1 package Lesley Stowe Raincoast Crisps Cranberry and Hazelnut Crackers  

4 oz. Fig spread 

6 oz. manchego cheese, sliced 

1 package Everything crackers 

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Arrange cheeses on 3-4 medium-sized serving boards.
  2. Set out small dishes for olives, marinated mushrooms, spinach-artichoke dip, spicy feta, and fig jam.
  3. Arrange meats alongside cheeses, folding some slices and fanning out others.
  4. Fill in the empty spaces on and around your boards with fresh and dried fruit, pecans, breadsticks, and crackers.
  5. Don’t forget to set out toothpicks, serving spoons, and cheese knives for guests to serve themselves.

What should be on a charcuterie platter?

Along with the traditional cured meat, the addition of paired cheeses and accompaniments like fruit, nuts, olives, and spreads are common in restaurants that serve charcuterie boards. Here’s what you’ll find on a traditional charcuterie board:

  • Cured meat
  • Cheeses
  • Olives
  • Nuts
  • Fruits and Veggies
  • Crackers
  • Jellies and jams

Pro tip: Using a bunch of smaller boards instead of one big one means you can move servings around to feed a crowd.

Brunch Charcuterie Board

charcuterie board ideas breakfast or brunch charcuterie board

Keep the party going in the morning with a next-level brunch! Arrange mini pancakes and waffles, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, sliced avocado, sausage, and fruit on a platter; blueberry sauce and cinnamon maple butter spread (combine 1 stick unsalted butter at room temp with 3 Tbsp maple syrup and 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon) round out the tray.

Article by Jamie Kravitz for Women’s Day. There are more boards to browse at the link below:

Source: How to Make the Perfect Charcuterie Board – Charcuterie Board Ideas (womansday.com)

How Long Can You Leave a Cat Alone? (Hint: Not As Long As You Think)

How Long Can You Leave a Cat Alone? (Hint: Not As Long As You Think)
© Molly Aaker/Getty Images

Your cat is independent, indifferent and probably doesn’t even care if you’re alive or dead…right? Wrong. While it’s true that cats are significantly lower maintenance than most pups, felines still crave affection from their humans. In fact, they’re not that different from dogs at all in that regard; domesticated cats who are deprived of human contact for too long are indeed susceptible to feelings of separation anxiety, in addition to the obvious health complications that come from not having their physical needs met. That said, your sleepy, aloof feline can weather a little solitude just fine—just be sure to read on to find out what the experts have to say about how long you can leave a cat alone before you pack your bags.

How Long Can You Leave a Cat Alone?

The good news is that the average full-grown feline will be fine when left alone for a workday, which means that, in most cases, you needn’t spring for a pet sitter on the regular. Yep, you’ve probably noticed that your cat loves to sleep—up to 18 hours a day, in fact—so you don’t need to feel guilty about putting a day in at the office while your kitty languishes on the couch. Working the nightshift? Again, no big deal. Your particular schedule doesn’t make much of a difference as far as your cat’s alone time is concerned. As long as you’re consistently around for some chunk of time every 24 hours, your cat will be content. But, of course, an occasion may arise where you need to be away from home for a little while longer. Here’s what you need to know about longer periods of separation from your feline.

When it comes to longer absences, the cat lovers and experts behind Animalpath.org say that healthy, adult cats shouldn’t be left alone for more than 24 to 48 hours. Meanwhile, the veterinarians over at CVETS in South Carolina are a little more generous, saying that “if you leave your cat alone for more than three days, you must find someone to check in on him.” In other words, there isn’t a specific amount of time experts agree on for every cat and your cat’s needs might change over time. Needless to say, adult cats with special needs—be it a recent injury, illness, or daily medication regimen—will need to be checked on more frequently. Plus, even the healthiest of kitties need food, water and toileting accounted for before you duck out. The pros also advise against leaving a newly adopted adult cat alone for the aforementioned stretch of time, since fur buddies who are still in the process of adjusting to a new environment are naturally more vulnerable to separation anxiety and the behavioral problems that come with it.

How Long Can You Leave a Kitten Alone?

Kittens are the cutest—but just like any baby, they’re considerably more work than an adult. Indeed, age makes a tremendous difference in terms of how long you can leave your cat alone—specifically for pets under the age of six months. Per the pros, wee ones under the age of 4 months shouldn’t be left alone for more than two to four hours; 4 to 5-month-old kittens can chill solo for up to five hours; and by the half-year mark, kitties can sit (or snooze) pretty for an eight hour workday without consequence. Of course, this is just an estimate based on what most cats can handle. Your particular feline’s temperament will play a considerable part in the equation, so proceed with caution.

The Risks of Leaving a Cat Alone

Far be it from us to take the wind out of your sails after reassuring you, but there are some risks associated with leaving your cat alone for too long. Don’t worry, though, friends: It’s mostly just common sense stuff.

Let’s begin with the litter box—namely, the fact that many healthy cats will simply avoid it if it gets too gross. And since nobody enjoys cat pee on their wooden floor (or, um, on top of a pile of dry cleaning), this is definitely a factor worth considering.

While an angry cat peeing all over the place is a nightmare and a hassle, far more serious is the possibility of an unanticipated injury or illness. Although the odds that your robust house cat suddenly falls sick are slim, it’s definitely a possibility—particularly if you don’t cat-proof your pad before departing. Along the same lines, a mischievous kitty can certainly get into trouble when bored and alone.

Finally, there’s the emotional impact. Prolonged periods away could rub even the coolest cat the wrong way. If you don’t want your furball to turn into a neurotic stress ball, it’s best to keep your kitty’s temperament in mind and generally stick to the above guidelines of a maximum 24 to 48 hours solo time.

What to Know Before You Go

When it comes to leaving a healthy cat alone, the most important stuff is pretty straightforward: You will need to set out enough food for the one to two days that you plan on being away, freshen the water bowl and thoroughly clean your cat’s litter box. (Don’t say we didn’t warn you about that last one.)

We also suggest you take your cat’s emotional needs into account. After all, your home is a pretty boring place without you. As such, you can help minimize any separation anxiety and reduce the risk of cat shenanigans if you supply your pet with some toys designed for solo play.

Finally, if you want to be super cautious, or have any doubts about your cat’s physical health, it’d be wise to pay a visit to the veterinarian before you leave any pet to fend for itself. Also, it bears repeating that kittens under the age of six months and newly adopted cats cannot and should not be left alone for a full 24-hour day, let alone two.

When to Hire a Pet Sitter

Cats are notoriously low-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean they relish neglect. If you are planning on being away for a couple of days, then you need to find yourself a friend or a for-hire pet sitter to take care of your feline in your absence. Bonus points if you snag someone who will stay a while to play with and pet your kitty—’cause yeah, they really do want somebody to love.

Written by Emma Singer.

Source: How Long Can You Leave a Cat Alone? (Hint: Not As Long As You Think) (msn.com)

Show-Stopping Appetizers

25 Show-Stopping Appetizers

Layered Sun-dried-Tomato-and-Basil Spread. Make this festive top-rated holiday dip recipe up to 3 days before the party. The colorful layers make it a fun addition to any appetizer buffet.

Layered Sun-dried-Tomato-and-Basil Spread Recipe | MyRecipes

Serve this spicy beer-cheese spread with crackers for a tasty game-day appetizer, or spread on buttered bread and cook in a nonstick skillet for a twist on the traditional grilled cheese sandwich.

Beer-Cheese Spread. Serve this spicy beer-cheese spread with crackers for a tasty game-day appetizer or spread on buttered bread and cook in a nonstick skillet for a twist on the traditional grilled cheese sandwich.

Beer-Cheese Spread Recipe | MyRecipes

Cranberry Meatballs

Cranberry Meatballs. Try a unique twist on a classic recipe by cooking meatballs in a decadent, cranberry, orange marmalade and soy sauce mixture.

Cranberry Meatballs Recipe | MyRecipes

22 more recipes can be found here:

Source: 25 Absolutely Amazing Appetizers | Southern Living

Holiday Desserts You Can Make Without Cream Cheese

While we must say we love to use cream cheese when making desserts and often reach for it while baking, we realize there are times when you may prefer a recipe that doesn’t call for a block. Whether you’re having trouble finding cream cheese on the shelves of the supermarket or have family members that don’t particularly love the flavor, there are still plenty of dessert recipes you can make without it. From cakes to cookies to fudge and more, there is a long list of festive dessert recipes that don’t need cream cheese to be delicious. We’ve rounded up 21 of our best Christmas dessert ideas you can make this year without cream cheese. 

Red Velvet Cake Crinkle Cookies

These crinkle cookies are rich, cakey, and slightly fudgy—kids will love them and adults will, too. Plus, there’s a surprise here. These treats are coated in a snowy layer of powdered sugar, just like classic crinkle cookies, but inside they’re more like velvety chocolate cake (with white chocolate chips!) than fudgy brownies. To ensure they have a nice deep hue, use gel food coloring rather than liquid. The latter won’t tint the batter as well.

Recipe: Red Velvet Cake Crinkle Cookies | Southern Living

Christmas Fudge

Christmas Fudge

Among the most beloved holiday treats, fudge holds pride of place in gifted Christmas tins and on holiday party dessert tables. Make no mistake, the diversity of fudge flavors is endless, but when it comes to Christmas Fudge, we have the firm belief that simple and classic chocolate fudge is almost always a better choice than anything elaborate and novel. Our recipe makes the most of bittersweet and unsweetened baking chocolate by letting their flavor stand on their own while including a few other ingredients to enhance the richness and the silkiness of the fudge itself. Sweetened condensed milk and butter are used to transform the melted chocolate into a sweetened and milky ganache, while the salt, espresso powder, and vanilla compliment the flavor of the chocolate and make the depths of that flavor more pronounced. The secret ingredient in this recipe is the corn syrup which prevents any crystal formation in the fudge and allows the finished product to be perfectly smooth with a slight chew rather than a crumbly, powdery, and altogether disappointing piece of crystalized fudge. To keep with the theme of simplicity, the decoration for this fudge is a mix of red, green, and white sprinkles that lend a delightful crunchy contrast to the velvety texture of the fudge. Finally, the flake salt called for in the recipe is optional, but when used, it enhances the fudge squares with a subtle saltiness while also adding the visual appeal of flaky crystals—taking something that looks almost like a kid’s treat at Christmas and elevating it to something fun and sophisticated.

Recipe: Christmas Fudge Recipe | Southern Living

Old Fashioned Gingerbread

Brown Sugar-and-Ginger Whipped Cream

Nothing makes a house smell more like Christmas than the sweet and spicy aroma of a freshly baked pan of gingerbread. We’re not talking about the crisp cookies or the houses covered in icing and candy. The taste of those holiday delights just can’t compare to a slice of tender, richly spiced gingerbread cake. The practice of baking and sharing gingerbread originated in Europe several hundred years ago and then made its way to the colonial South as families immigrated to the region and brought their recipes and traditions with them. Ginger from Asia and dried spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, allspice, and cloves arrived by ship into Southern ports and traveled inland because they were easy to transport and store. Whole dried spices kept well and retained their flavor and aroma for months. When combined with affordable sweeteners (like molasses or honey) and farmstead staples (such as butter and eggs), gingerbread could be made by home bakers when more expensive ingredients were not an option, which is why it became a wildly popular dessert. If you don’t have all the ground spices on hand, you can substitute two teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice along with the black pepper.

Recipe: Old Fashioned Gingerbread Recipe | Southern Living

Article By Jenna Sims for Southern Living©

There are 18 more recipes here:

Holiday Desserts You Can Make Without Cream Cheese | Southern Living

Netflix: What’s coming and going in January 2022

The streaming service released a list of the movies, TV shows, comedy specials and documentaries coming and going next month.

Netflix: What's coming and going in January 2022

Jason Bateman and Laura Linney play Marty and Wendy Byrde on the Netflix series “Ozark.” Photo courtesy of Netflix.

Here’s a full list of what’s being added to Netflix in January:

Jan. 1

Chief Daddy 2 – Going for Broke (Netflix Original)

The Hook Up Plan Season 3 (Netflix Original)

300

1BR

Annie (1982)

Big Fish

Braveheart

Cadillac Records

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)

Doing Hard Time

Escaping the NXIVM Cult: A Mother’s Fight to Save Her Daughter

First Sunday

Free Willy

G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra

Geronimo: An American Legend

Ghosts of Girlfriends Past

Girl, Interrupted

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)

Godzilla 

Gremins

Happy Feet

Hell or High Water

Hook

I Know What You Did Last Summer

Interview with the Vampire

Just Go with It

Kung Fu Panda

Linewatch

The Longest Yard

The Lost Boys

Midnight in Paris

Monsters vs. Aliens

Nacho Libre

The NeverEnding Story

Paranormal Activity

The Patriot

Road Trip

Runaway Bride

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark

Stand by Me

Superman Returns

Taxi Driver

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2007)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Movie (1990)

Terminator 2: Judgment Day

Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines

Terminator Salvation

The Town

Troy

True Grit

The Wedding Singer

Wild Wild West

Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)

Woo

Jan. 4

Action Pack (Netflix Original)

Jan. 5

Four to Dinner (Netflix Original)

Rebelde (Netflix Original)

Jan. 6

The Club Part 2 (Netflix Original)

The Wasteland (Netflix Original)

Jan. 7

Hype House (Netflix Original)

Johnny Test Season 2 (Netflix Original)

Jan. 10

Undercover Season 3 (Netflix Original)

Jan. 11

Dear Mother (Netflix Original)

Jan. 12

How I Fell in Love with a Gangster (Netflix Original)

Jan. 13

Brazen (Netflix Original)

Chosen (Netflix Original)

The Journalist (Netflix Original)ADVERTISEMENT

Photocopier (Netflix Original)

Jan. 14

After Life Season 3 (Netflix Original)

Archive 81 (Netflix Original)

Blippi: Adventures

Blippi’s School Supply Scavenger Hunt

The House (Netflix Original)

Riverdance: The Animated Adventure (Netflix Original)

This is Not a Comedy (Netflix Original)

Jan. 16

Phantom Thread

Jan. 17

After We Fell

Jan. 18

Mighty Express: Train Trouble (Netflix Original)

Jan. 19

El marginal Season 4 (Netflix Original)

Heavenly Bites: Mexico (Netflix Original)

Juanpis González – The Series (Netflix Original)

The Puppet Master: Hunting the Ultimate Conman (Netflix Original)

Too Hot to Handle Season 3 (Netflix Original)

Jan. 20

Midnight Asia: Eat – Dance – Dream (Netflix Original)

The Royal Treatment (Netflix Original)

Jan. 21

American Boogeywoman

Munich: The Edge of War (Netflix Original)

My Father’s Violin (Netflix Original)

Ozark Season 4, Part 1 (Netflix Original)

Pokémon Master Journeys: The Series Part 2 (Netflix Original)

Summer Heat (Netflix Original)

That Girl Lay Lay

Jan. 24

Three Songs for Benazir (Netflix Original)

Jan. 25

Ada Twist, Scientist Season 2 (Netflix Original)

Neymar: The Perfect Chaos (Netflix Original)

Jan. 27

Framed! A Sicilian Murder Mystery (Netflix Original)

Jan. 28

Angry Birds: Summer Madness (Netflix Original)

Feria: The Darkest Light (Netflix Original)

Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness (Netflix Original)

Home Team (Netflix Original)

In From the Cold (Netflix Original)

The Woman in the House Across the Street From the Girl in the Window (Netflix Original)

Here’s the full list of what’s leaving Netflix in January:

Jan. 1

Snowpiercer

Jan. 5

Episodes Seasons 1-5

Jan. 6

A Ghost Story

Ballerina

Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax

Jan. 10

Hardy Bucks Seasons 1-4

Jan. 11

Betty White: First Lady of Television

Jan. 15

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn: Part 1

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn: Part 2

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse

The Twilight Saga: New Moon

Twilight

Jan. 17

The Bling Ring

Homefront

Jan. 21

The Shannara Chronicles Seasons 1-2

Jan. 31

Bleach: The Entry

Bleach: The Rescue

Bleach: The Substitute

Cloud Atlas

The General’s Daughter

My Girl 2

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Seasons 1-8

Mystic River

Shutter Island

Thanks to Annie Martin of Entertainment News©

Source: Netflix: What’s coming and going in January 2022 – UPI.com

Drafty Windows? Try These 12 Solutions for Every Budget

Slide 1 of 13: Drafts got you down? As outside temperatures plummet, leaky windows can make the inside of your home feel downright frosty—to say nothing of costing you money as your hard-earned heating dollars fly right out the window. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, reducing drafts in a home can result in energy savings of between 5 and 30 percent per year, while also keeping your family snug and cozy. There are many ways to cut your heating bill, ranging from installing simple weather stripping to entire window replacement. Ahead, we’ve assembled a list of solutions to fix those drafty windows that suit budgets both large and small.

 © istockphoto.com

Stay Warm and Save Money

Drafts got you down? As outside temperatures plummet, leaky windows can make the inside of your home feel downright frosty—to say nothing of costing you money as your hard-earned heating dollars fly right out the window. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, reducing drafts in a home can result in energy savings of between 5 and 30 percent per year, while also keeping your family snug and cozy.

There are many ways to cut your heating bill, ranging from installing simple weather stripping to entire window replacement. Ahead, we’ve assembled a list of solutions to fix those drafty windows that suit budgets both large and small.

Easy ID

First, spot the sources of drafts in your home. If you can feel a breeze or draft as you pass or hold your hand near a window, it’s time to address the problem. Other signs are fogged glass or condensation inside windows, between the panes. This means a seal is likely compromised and the windows are not insulating as they should. Finally, visible damage to weather stripping (interior or exterior) likely means frigid air is getting in.First, find the source of drafts in your home using a matchstick or candle. Slowly move the flame around the window frame. If the flame bends or flickers at any point, use a small sticky note to mark the spot so you can come back and seal it.

If still uncertain—and especially if your energy bills have risen with no clear reason—you can check for window drafts using a matchstick or candle. Slowly move the flame around the window frame. If the flame bends or flickers at any point, use a small sticky note to mark the spot so you can come back and seal it.

Snake Surprise

The bean bag sock snake is a classic solution for drafts, but you typically see it used on doors. This draft stopper from Home Intuition, available on Amazon, works with windows as well by blocking cold air creeping in through the crack between the sash and the sill.

This model is sized to fit windows at 36 inches long. With its 4-inch thick size, fleece material, and polyester fill, it provides an ample barrier against Old Man Winter. Hanging loops are a nice touch, making it easy to store when not in use.

Storm Stoppers

Though more of an investment than other solutions, storm windows, like the Larson aluminum storm windows, are the most effective way to stop drafts. Aluminum storm windows mount to the outside of the window casing, providing an additional insulating pane of glass that prevents cold air from infiltrating the home.

Adding storm windows to your existing windows costs more than most other solutions, and they are more difficult to install. The upside is that they can save you as much as 30 percent on heating and cooling costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Modern Shrinky Dinks

Online and off, most home improvement stores stock plastic shrink film insulation kits. Like other similar products, the 3M Indoor Window Insulator Kit includes all you need to apply insulating film over as many as five standard windows. Double-sided tape holds the film in place until the last step in the quick and easy installation process, when you use a hair dryer to shrink the film to achieve an airtight seal.

Close the Gaps

Repair, replace, or add weatherstripping around drafty windows and doors. Duck Brand Heavy-Duty Self Adhesive Weatherstrip Seal works well, costs little, and comes in various sizes. Plus, its rubber construction provides excellent draft protection.

That said, there are many types of weatherstripping worth considering—felt weatherstripping (sold in rolls), V-seal weatherstripping (sold in both plastic and spring-metal versions), and expanding spray foam weatherstripping (sold in aerosol cans).

Caulk Those Cracks!

Window caulking serves as a first line of defense against cold air. Unfortunately, caulk degrades over time, inevitably developing small cracks and gaps that allow in cold air. Inspect your drafty windows, checking around the window frame for any signs of failure.

You can repair small openings with inexpensive, user-friendly rope caulk, such as this caulking cord that requires only your fingers to install. Larger openings, meanwhile, necessitate the complete removal and replacement of the original, no-longer-viable caulk.

Draft-Stopping Decor

Seasonally swap out your lightweight curtains for heavier, insulation-boosting window treatments like draperies, layered curtains, honeycomb shades (which trap air between layers of fabric) or Roman shades. This set of thermal curtains uses three layers of fabric to provide insulation over the window (when curtains are closed, of course), helping to cut energy bills. They also contribute to the room’s decor.

Article by Tony Carrick and Bob Vila for BobVila©

Source: Drafty Windows? Try These 12 Solutions for Every Budget (msn.com)

Pet poodle killed by neighbor’s dog on Far South Side, owner cited

A few days ago. I posted an article about the deadliest dog breed to own. This is the dog breed that’s attacked the most people – TUTORING YOU

Based on the number of deaths attributed to this breed (421), the Pit Bull is by far the deadliest dog to own. I don’t have the number of other dog breeds that have been killed or injured by this breed, however it happens more frequently than attacks on humans. Here is a report on the latest attack from ABC 7 news:

“Cynthia Bailey said when she let her toy poodle Caeser out around 6 a.m. Tuesday, a neighbor’s dog was in her yard.

She said that dog attacked Caesar once, then came back after him again.

Baily said she tried to fight off the dog, but Caesar died from his injuries.

“I’m screaming and yelling for help, but he’s just constantly attacking, you know, my dog,” Baily said. “Nothing I did touched him. He didn’t flicker at all.”

The owner of the pitbull, cane corso mix told officers the dog had gotten out of the house.

The owner was cited, according to police.”

Just to reiterate, got kids? Beware of this breed!

Nice doggy!

Here’s everything new coming to Netflix in December 2021 (and What’s Leaving).

Here’s everything new coming to Netflix in December 2021 — and what’s leaving

© netflix

Netflix Inc. has a ridiculous amount of original content coming in December, including new seasons of some of its most popular series, Oscar-contending movies and a slew of holiday specials.

The fantasy epic “The Witcher” (Dec. 17) returns for its second season, as monster-hunter Geralt (Henry Cavill) encounters assorted elves, sorceresses and royalty in his adventures; “Money Heist” (Dec. 5) concludes with the second half of Season 5, as the Professor and his ever-dwindling crew try to escape the besieged Bank of Spain with their haul of stolen gold; “Emily in Paris” (Dec. 22) is back for Season 2, promising more fun, fashion and faux pas as the all-too-American Emily (Lily Collins) tries to find her footing in Paris; “Queer Eye” (Dec. 31) is back for its sixth season, making tear-jerking transformations in Texas this time around; and Season 4 of “Cobra Kai” (Dec. 31) sees Daniel (Ralph Maccio) and Johnny (William Zabka) join forces in an attempt to win the ever-important All-Valley Under-18 Karate Tournament.

On the movie front, Netflix has a pair with serious Oscar buzz in “The Power of the Dog” (Dec. 1), a family drama directed by Jane Campion and starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Jesse Plemons as brothers running a Montana ranch in the 1920s; and “Don’t Look Up” (Dec. 24), Adam McKay’s star-studded (Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Timothée Chalamet, Meryl Streep and many more) sci-fi comedy about astronomers who discover an asteroid is going to hit Earth.

And there are plenty of seasonal offerings, like “Single All the Way” (Dec. 2), a holiday rom-com starring Michael Urie, Philemon Chambers and Luke MacFarlane; the fourth installment of “The Great British Baking Show: Holidays” (Dec. 3); and family fare such as “Shaun the Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas” (Dec. 3) and “David and the Elves” (Dec. 4).

Here’s the full list of what’s coming and going, as of Nov. 23 (release dates are subject to change):

What’s coming in December 2021

Dec. 1JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean — Netflix Anime

Kayko and Kokosh — Netflix Family

Kayko and Kokosh: Season 2 — Netflix Family

Lost in Space: Season 3 — Netflix Series

The Power of the Dog — Netflix Film

Are You the One: Season 3

Blood and Bone

Body of Lies

Bordertown: Mural Murders

Chloe

Chocolat

Closer

Death at a Funeral

Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat

The Final Destination

Final Destination 3

Final Destination 5

Fool’s Gold

The Fourth Kind

Ink Master: Season 3

Ink Master: Season 4

Knight Rider 2000

Knight Rider: Seasons 1-4

Law Abiding Citizen

The Legend of Zorro

Life

Looper

The Mask of Zorro

Minority Report

Pet Sematary (1989)

Premonition

Sabrina (1995)

Soul Surfer

Stepmom

Stuart Little 2

Sucker Punch

Think Like a Man

Tremors

We Were Soldiers

Wild Things

Wyatt Earp

Dec. 2The Alpinist

Coyotes — Netflix Series

Single All the Way — Netflix Film

The Whole Truth — Netflix Film

Dec. 3Cobalt Blue — Netflix Film

Coming Out Colton — Netflix Series

Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous: Season 4 — Netflix Family

Money Heist: Part 5 Vol 2 — Netflix Series

The Great British Baking Show: Holidays: Season 4 — Netflix Series

Mixtape — Netflix Film

Money Heist: From Tokyo to Berlin: Volume 2 — Netflix Documentary

Shaun the Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas — Netflix Family

Dec. 5Japan Sinks: People of Hope: Season 1 (episode 8)

Dec. 6David and the Elves — Netflix Film

Voir — Netflix Documentary

Dec. 7Centaurworld: Season 2 — Netflix Family

Go Dog Go: Season 2 — Netflix Family

Nicole Byer: BBW (Big Beautiful Weirdo) — Netflix Comedy

Dec. 8Carolin Kebekus: The Last Christmas Special — Netflix Comedy

Dec. 9Asakusa Kid — Netflix Film

Bathtubs Over Broadway

Bonus Family: Season 4 — Netflix Series

The Family That Sings Together: The Camargos — Netflix Documentary

Dec. 10Anonymously Yours — Netflix Film

Aranyak — Netflix Series

Back to the Outback — Netflix Film

How to Ruin Christmas: The Funeral — Netflix Series

Twentysomethings: Austin (formerly Roaring Twenties) — Netflix Series

Saturday Morning All Star Hits! — Netflix Series

The Shack

Still Out of My League — Netflix Film

Two — Netflix Film

The Unforgivable — Netflix Film

Dec. 11Fast Color

The Hungry and the Hairy — Netflix Series

Dec. 12Japan Sinks: People of Hope: Season 1 (episode 9)

Dec. 13Eye in the Sky

Dec. 14The Future Diary

Russell Howard: Lubricant — Netflix Comedy

StarBeam: Beaming in the New Year — Netflix Family

Dec. 15Black Ink Crew New York: Seasons 3-4

The Challenge: Season 12

The Challenge: Season 25

Elite Short Stories: Phillipe Caye Felipe — Netflix Series

The Giver

The Hand of God — Netflix Film

Masha and the Bear: Nursery Rhymes: Season 1 Part 2

Masha and the Bear: Season 5

Selling Tampa — Netflix Series

Teen Mom 2: Seasons 3-4

Dec. 16A California Christmas: City Lights — Netflix Film

A Naija Christmas — Netflix Film

Aggretsuko: Season 4 — Netflix Anime

Darkest Hour

Puff: Wonders of the Reef — Netflix Documentary

Dec. 17Fast & Furious Spy Racers: Season 6: Homecoming

The Witcher: Season 2

Dec. 18Bulgasi: Immortal Souls — Netflix Series

Oldboy

Dec. 19What Happened in Oslo — Netflix Series

Dec. 20Elite Short Stories: Samuel Omar — Netflix Series

Dec. 21Jim Gaffigan: Comedy Monster — Netflix Comedy

Grumpy Christmas — Netflix Film

Dec. 22Emily in Paris: Season 2 — Netflix Series

Dec. 23Elite Short Stories: Patrick — Netflix Series

Dec. 241000 Miles from Christmas — Netflix Film

Don’t Look Up — Netflix Film

Minnal Murali — Netflix Film

The Silent Sea — Netflix Series

Stand By Me Doraemon 2 — Netflix Film

Vicky and Her Mystery — Netflix Film

Zach Stone is Gonna Be Famous

Dec. 25Single’s Inferno — Netflix Series

Jimmy Carr: His Dark Material — Netflix Comedy

Stories of a Generation – with Pope Francis — Netflix Documentary

Dec. 26Lulli — Netflix Film

Dec. 28World Party Presents: Math! — Netflix Family

Dec. 29Anxious People — Netflix Series

Crime Scene: The Times Square Killer — Netflix Documentary

Dec. 30Kitz — Netflix Series

Hilda and the Mountain King — Netflix Series

Dec. 31Cobra Kai: Season 4 — Netflix Series

The Lost Daughter — Netflix Film

Queer Eye: Season 6 — Netflix Series

Stay Close — Netflix Series

Seal Team — Netflix Film

What’s leaving in December

Dec. 3The Last O.G.: Seasons 1-2

Dec. 4The Guest

Dec. 7Before I Fall

Dec. 8It Comes at Night

Mariah Carey’s Merriest Christmas

Dec. 13Halt and Catch Fire: Seasons 1-4

Dec. 14Fifty: The Series: Seasons 1-2

Saint Seiya: Seasons 1-6

Dec. 15Lee Daniels’ The Butler

Maps to the Stars

The Theory of Everything

Dec. 21Jacob’s Ladder

Private Practice: Seasons 1-6

Dec. 25Captain Fantastic

Dec. 30Winchester

Dec. 31A Cinderella Story

American Gangster

Beethoven

Beethoven’s 2nd

Charlie’s Angels

Cold Mountain

Defiance

The Devil Inside

Do the Right Thing

Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood

Double Jeopardy

Forensic Files: Collections 1-9

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood: Parts 1-5

Fullmetal Alchemist: Season 1

Ghost

Gladiator

The Great British Baking Show: The Beginnings: Season 1

House Party

House Party 2

House Party 3

Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life

The Last Airbender

Like Crazy

Love Don’t Cost a Thing

Love Jones

The Lovely Bones

The Machinist

Magnolia

Memoirs of a Geisha

My Fair Lady

Mystic Pizza

Pan’s Labyrinth

Puss in Boots

Rumor Has It…

Serendipity

Spy Kids

Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams

Spy Kids 3: Game Over

Stuart Little

The Strangers

Titanic

Tommy Boy

Underworld

Underworld: Awakening

Underworld: Rise of the Lycans

What a Girl Wants

What’s Eating Gilbert Grape

There you have it. Get ready to binge!

Article by Mike Murphy for MarketWatch©

Source: Here’s everything new coming to Netflix in December 2021 — and what’s leaving (msn.com)