#Selling My house Montrose

[convergenceproperties1]

How to Sell Your House Fast in Grand Junction in Any Market

Selling a house can be a daunting task, especially if you need to do it quickly. Whether you’re relocating for work, downsizing, or simply ready for a change, knowing how to effectively sell your home in Grand Junction, Colorado, can make all the difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to sell your house fast in any market condition.

1. Understand the Market

Analyze Local Real Estate Trends

Before diving into the sell house fast Grand Junction process, it’s crucial to understand the current state of the Grand Junction real estate market.

Research Recent Sales: Look at homes similar to yours that have sold recently. Pay attention to their selling prices, time on the market, and any unique features they had.

Evaluate Inventory Levels: A high number of homes for sale may indicate a buyer's market, while low inventory suggests a seller’s market. This information can guide your pricing strategy.

Adapt to Market Conditions

Understanding whether you’re in a buyer's or seller's market will influence your approach to sell house fast Grand Junction.

Buyer’s Market: If there are many homes for sale, you may need to be more competitive with your pricing and offer incentives to attract buyers.

Seller’s Market: If demand is high, you can set a more aggressive price, knowing that buyers may be willing to pay more.

2. Price Your Home Competitively

Set a Fair Price

One of the most crucial factors in selling your home quickly is pricing it correctly.

Comparative Market Analysis (CMA): Use data from recently sold homes in your area to help determine a fair price.

Professional Appraisal: If you’re unsure about pricing, consider hiring a professional appraiser to provide an unbiased assessment of your home’s value.

Consider Psychological Pricing

Use Strategic Pricing: Prices ending in .99 often attract buyers more effectively than round numbers. For example, pricing your home at $299,999 may garner more interest than $300,000.

3. Enhance Curb Appeal

Make a Strong First Impression

The exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers see, so make it count.

Landscaping: Invest time in your yard. Trim bushes, mow the lawn, and plant colorful flowers to create an inviting atmosphere.

Exterior Maintenance: A fresh coat of paint or new siding can dramatically improve your home’s appearance. Ensure that gutters and windows are clean and in good condition.

Improve the Entryway

The entryway sets the tone for the entire home.

Lighting: Install attractive outdoor lighting to illuminate your entrance.

Decor: A welcoming doormat or a seasonal wreath can add charm and warmth.

4. Make Necessary Repairs

Address Issues Proactively

Buyers are often deterred by visible repairs, so fix any issues before listing your home.

Minor Repairs: Simple fixes like patching holes in walls, fixing leaky faucets, and replacing broken tiles can significantly impact buyer perception.

Major Repairs: If your home has significant problems (like roof leaks or outdated electrical systems), consider addressing these issues or adjust your pricing accordingly.

Consider a Pre-Inspection

Conducting a pre-inspection can identify problems before they become deal-breakers.

Transparency: Providing a pre-inspection report can build trust with buyers and streamline negotiations.

5. Stage Your Home Effectively

Create an Inviting Atmosphere

Staging can help potential buyers visualize themselves in your home.

Declutter: Remove personal items and excess furniture to make your space appear larger and more inviting.

Neutral Colors: Use neutral colors for walls and decor to appeal to a broader audience, allowing buyers to envision their style in the space.

Highlight Key Features

Ensure that the best features of your home are visible during showings.

Natural Light: Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible.

Functional Spaces: Arrange furniture to showcase the functionality of each room.

6. Use Effective Marketing Strategies

Create an Engaging Listing

An enticing online listing is crucial in today’s digital age.

High-Quality Photos: Invest in professional photography to showcase your home’s best attributes. Good visuals can capture buyer interest instantly.

Detailed Descriptions: Write a compelling listing that highlights unique features, recent upgrades, and the benefits of living in Grand Junction.

Leverage Social Media

Social media platforms can broaden your reach.

Targeted Ads: Use Facebook or Instagram ads to reach local buyers specifically looking for homes.

Local Groups: Share your listing in community groups to attract buyers who are already interested in the area.

7. Be Flexible with Showings

Make Your Home Accessible

Flexibility can significantly increase your chances of selling quickly.

Offer Various Showings: Provide flexible showing times, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate different schedules.

Keep It Clean: Ensure your home is always clean and organized for unexpected showings.

Consider Virtual Tours

Incorporating technology can attract more buyers.

Online Showings: Offering virtual tours can attract buyers who may not be able to visit in person. This broadens your audience and increases interest.

8. Work with a Real Estate Agent

Utilize Expert Knowledge

Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate agent can streamline the selling process.

Local Expertise: An agent familiar with Grand Junction can provide insights into market conditions and help you price your home competitively.

Negotiation Skills: Agents can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you get the best possible deal.

Access to Resources

A good agent will have access to a network of potential buyers and other professionals, such as inspectors and contractors, to facilitate a smoother transaction.

9. Consider Cash Buyers

Attracting Cash Offers

Cash buyers can significantly expedite the selling process.

Quick Transactions: Cash offers eliminate the need for lengthy mortgage approvals, allowing for quicker closings.

As-Is Purchases: Many cash buyers are willing to purchase homes in their current condition, saving you the hassle of repairs.

Networking

Local Investors: Attend real estate investment meetings to connect with cash buyers looking for properties.

Market Your Home: Use phrases like "cash offers welcome" in your listings to attract serious buyers.

10. Be Prepared for Quick Decisions

Evaluate Offers Promptly

When you receive offers, be ready to respond quickly.

Timely Communication: Quick responses to offers can help secure a favorable deal and show your willingness to work with buyers.

Consider All Terms: Look beyond the price—evaluate the terms, contingencies, and closing timeline to determine the best fit for your situation.

Flexibility in Negotiation

Be prepared for negotiations and remain flexible.

Counteroffers: If an offer doesn’t meet your expectations, consider making a counteroffer that works for both parties.

Conclusion

Selling your house fast in Grand Junction, regardless of market conditions, is achievable with the right strategies. By understanding the market, pricing your home competitively, enhancing curb appeal, making necessary repairs, staging effectively, and utilizing strong marketing tactics, you can attract buyers and expedite your sale.

If you’re ready to navigate the selling process and achieve a successful, quick sale, reach out to Convergence Properties Inc. We’re here to provide expert guidance every step of the way, helping you move on to your next adventure with confidence!

Reference: Sell my house Fast Grand Junction colorado

Reference: Sell house Grand Junction

Reference: Sell my Mesa County house fast

[petalsfm]

if you’re hearing PARANOID by POST MALONE playing, you have to know HUNTER CLARKE (HE / HIM; CIS MAN) is near by! the TWENTY-EIGHT year old LAWN CARE TECHNICIAN has been in denver for, like, THREE MONTHS. they’re known to be quite SECRETIVE, but being ASTUTE seems to balance that out. or maybe it’s the fact that they resemble NICK ROBINSON. personally, i’d love to know more about them seeing as how they’ve got those THE SMELL OF CIGARETTES AND WEED LINGERING LONG AFTER YOU'VE LEFT, THE ECHO OF AN UNFURNISHED APARTMENT, ALWAYS HAVING YOUR ( WIRED ) EARBUDS IN YOUR EARS, THE FEELING OF THE WIND AGAINST YOUR SKIN AS YOU BIKE AROUND TOWN vibes. and maybe i’ll get my chance if i hang out around the LAKERIDGE DISTRICT long enough!

STATS:

full name :       hunter theodore clarke nickname(s) :     n / a birthplace :      montrose, colorado date of birth :       02 / 14 / 1995 parentage :      georgia hansen clarke & jonathan clarke sibling(s) :      n / a relationship status :     single gender identity :     cis man ( he/him ) sexual orientation :      heterosexual faceclaim :      nick robinson

BACKGROUND: ( tw: emotional abuse, running away, homelessness )

never stays in one place too long. honestly he’s surprised he’s been in denver for 3 months. staying places and making connections isnt really his thing

EMOTIONAL ABUSE TW ! grew up with two parents who had more interest in arguing with each other than raising their own son

hunter was not a bad kid by any means, his parents were simply unfit for their roles. becoming parents at the age of eighteen and twenty-three, they were forced into a shotgun wedding and ended up living in a trailer home. neither of them actually WANTED to be parents-- they didn't want to hear any noise, be disturbed, nor did they want to help him with any problem he may have had-- academic or personal

being the cause of many of their arguments was not good for the young boy. hearing the two scream back and forth about who went wrong in what area of raising their son made it incredibly difficult for him to want to stick around TW END !

so, at the age of fourteen he snuck out in the middle of the night ( with nothing but his birth certificate, social security card, and cash he'd stolen from his parents ) in hopes that everything would just be over

he didn’t have a lot of money and couldn’t officially start working for another two years so he had to improvise. he began going to different neighborhoods and offering to mow the lawns of rich people with yards bigger than his old house. only a few people said yes, but it was enough to keep him afloat for a little bit. 

obviously, once that money was gone he had to look for some other way to at least keep eating. as stupid as it sounds, he resorted to stealing phone chargers and selling them / phone parts for cheap. iphones and galaxy’s were really gaining popularity back then so he was lowkey making bank

he hated stealing but you gotta do what you gotta do sometimes

he didn't really have enough money to leave montrose for awhile so he just hung around parts he knew his parents would never go to

the one place he could find solace was at the few churches he could find that left their doors unlocked overnight. he'd grown accustomed to being a light sleeper, but being able to lay down in the pews and just close his eyes gave him some comfort.

eventually, though, with his limited amount of money, he was able to go back and forth between colorado and utah, just finding any place he could work himself into

as he got older he got into stealing more things because it was easier than trying to get a job ( which is almost impossible when you have no address ) and was definitely almost caught multiple times

once he got enough money ( and barely missed getting arrested ) he skipped town and went to las vegas for awhile. he thought it’d be easier because there are so many people there and he could start a new life. however, he ran out of money quick and couldnt find anyone. he’ll tell you he likes and prefers being on his own but he’s really bad at life without a little help / push in the right direction

so he’s back in colorado!! he found his way to denver back in june, which seemed like the perfect time to get back into the lawn care business

honestly now ?? he’s tired of stealing so he’s probably just mowing grass and pulling weeds to stay afloat. it's the easiest job he can picture for someone who dropped out in the ninth grade

he never means��to hurt anyones feelings but if it happens it happens

doesn’t really apologize lol hes GARBAGE!

never ??? sees when hes in the wrong ??? nothing is ever his fault.

MISCELLANEOUS / HEADCANONS: ( tw: drug mention )

has never spoken a coherent sentence in his life

he probably gives everybody a fake name. it started at first because he didn't somehow want his parents to catch wind of where he was ( not like they'd care much ), but continued as he grew older just because he feels his real name isn't actually that important to learn

he also never remembers the names he gives people. you could be calling "james !!! james !!!" and he'd have no clue you were calling him fjdhgfdkjgh

speaking of names, he's horrible at remembering other people's names. you will have to tell him a hundred times

definitely owns an iphone 8 he bought off craigslist. was mad as hell he had to buy a dongle to make his wired earbuds usable, but he's never letting the wired earbuds go.

also, definitely doesn't have any numbers saved in his phone. every time he gets a text his automatic reply is "who's this?" even if there's text history

he steals shit and barely has money but he’s definitely the type to flex on these hoes! smh probably goes into an expensive ass store and tries on a watch, takes a selfie with it, then says hes not gonna buy the watch. if u ever ask him abt it he says he lost it or he chooses not to wear it bc time is a social construct.

really bad with feelings. like so bad. he doesn’t know them. has never felt an emotion ever, actually.

the least confrontational man on the planet. he hears a raised voice? he's gone faster than you can say the fake name he's given you. will literally never argue and has never argued in his life.

his most prized possession is his bike, which is the one nice thing he's ever bought for himself. he doesn’t even want a car he really does not. he’s such a fuckin loser but he just loves riding all around denver. new route every day.

the only piece of furniture he owns is an air mattress that lays in the center of the living room in his studio apartment.

probably always wearing a hoodie. he likes looking ~mysterious~ cus hes a LOSER

trying to save up his money for vegas 2.0 but definitely spends it all on cigs and weed LOL hashtag grown man things

[accustiv]

@audaciiae sent: [ admire ] sender stares at receiver across a room, silently admiring and appreciating them from afar

for most of this trip, i had kept ikaros away from everything i needed to actually do. i wanted to spare him from the worst of it all – including one very tense argument with my uncle, who had shown up to my house upon hearing a rumour i’d come back, ikaros had been told to stay upstairs, but even so, i know that he’d heard the raised voices – even if he hadn’t mentioned anything. it had been written all over how gentle he had been for the rest of the night.

but this time, i hadn’t meant to end up here. i hadn’t been planning on talking to lydia today, but she’d called me when we’d been out, and i’d done nothing but apologise profusely as i dragged him to covent garden. montrose was warm, and inside, sound was muffled by the sheer architecture of how lydia had lain out the displays – i could see my own touch within it, items placed aesthetically by styling options rather than era or function – even as we discussed the last round of operational problems my incarceration had caused them.

i glanced up, eyes catching sight of ikaros on the other side of the showroom, standing between a grandfather clock and a 17th century bureau, his eyes fixed on me, a small smile on his face. all thought of business left my mind for a moment, and i held his gaze until something lydia said pulled me back.

“ i’m going to sell this place. ” i said, suddenly, and she blinked at me. rowan, who i hadn’t noticed on the other side of the counter, straightened up, and stared. “ not to christopher, don’t worry. ” i glanced back at ikaros, “ look, i’m going to come by tomorrow with more information, but…” he was still watching me. “ lydia, you can take it, i’ll transfer it to your name, i don’t want to cause any more problems. ”

i left before they could argue, and ikaros was quick to follow me, i took a deep breath the moment the door closed behind us, and grabbed his hand with a grin, “ let’s go home. ”

[hbrcolorado]

Sell My House Fast In Montrose CO Tweet On Twitter.com

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[thatbadassbree]

Alright...I have some thoughts about Episode 4 of Lovecraft Country (SPOILER ALERT/SPOILERS AHEAD).

This really was some Indiana Jones type shit ok. I really enjoyed the adventure aspect of this episode with the fun humor thrown in between.

Leti is THAT bitch ok. That's it. That's all.

I truly believe that William and Christina are actually the same person. He is her male form, gotta be. They are never pictured in the same room/scenes together and once she disappears, he shows up. William=Christina. I FEEL this in my bones.

Montrose cannot be trusted at all. He has way too many secrets and I don't think he has any good intentions for Tic and the group. He's giving me major🐍energy.

I felt the sexual tension between Tic and Leti the entire episode. However, I also felt it between William and Ruby. Let me state that William is in fact the enemy but, I like a twisted sex scene every once and a while. I'll always know Jordan Patrick Smith as Ubbe from Vikings.

I feel for Ruby..I really do. Her pain is REAL and valid. She was angry,pretty much mad at the world in which, she has every right to be due to racism, colorism, sexism and she was also...vulnerable. William preyed on her vulnerability (she doesn't know this yet). He is a 🐍 with magical powers and she is a pawn within the Braithwaite's fucked up game.

I really liked how they managed to include a brief history on the Arawak (indigenous people of the Caribbean). I enjoy learning more about them and the Taino's (half of my family is from 🇹🇹). I also liked that they mentioned walking with two-spirits/third-gender. But...I hated what happened to Yahima in the end. HATED IT.

Leti needs to sells this house..ASAP. Get rid of it.

I need Tic to get his super powers, PRONTO.

Hippolyta is GOING to find out the truth about what happened to Uncle George and so much more. I also loved the museum scene with her and Diana.

I don't like Tree. Watch him be an "agent" or something. He's always popping up and using his words to plant bad seeds in Tic's head.

I cannot wait for Episode 5!! The previews show that it's going to be a creepy/gory one.

[stoneblue1025]

KISS - Fort Wayne Coliseum - Dec. 26, 1975:

I was looking forward to this concert with great anticipation every day for a month. Fort Wayne usually hosted one concert per month. On the night of November 26, 1975 Black Oak Arkansas, Foghat and Montrose were playing a show the local Memorial Coliseum and my parents would not let me go. After all, I was only 12 years old and this was only a few years after Woodstock. There was no way my parents were going to let their 12 year old boy attend such a drug infested crazy atmosphere. But as I lay sulking in my bed that night with my very existence crashing down around me, WMEE, the local AM station that I listened to, announced the next concert. That's right, on December 26 the headline act was going to be KISS. I was flabbergasted. My new-found heroes were coming to my town. I immediately flew out of bed (top bunk) and ran downstairs to breathlessly ask my parents if I could go. I understand not letting me see Black Oak Arkansas, but this was going to be KISS. I'd have to attend or my life would end. Anyway, after deliberating for what seemed like an eternity, I distinctly remember my mom telling me her verdict. "We cannot let you go alone into that arena ( I think she actually used the term 'nut house') so Sonny ( my dad) will take you".

The day tickets went on sale, my dad took off work and went to the coliseum box office to pick up a pair. We could not take the chance that they would sell out so he had to go right when they went on sale. When I got home from school that day, I asked my mom if he actually got the tickets and where were the seats. She told me that he did get them. She said that he had two choices for seats. It was general admission with no seats on the floor. Or we could get tickets for the seats in the upper or lower bowl. You could only get one or the other. Either on the floor with no seats amongst the throngs of people ( but you can get as close to the stage as you can) or in the seats where it would be more comfortable. So, naturally my dad chose the floor. I knew he was awesome, but this move definitely sealed it.

After wearing out the grooves to KISS Alive on my Victrola record player for a month, the day of the show finally arrived. After several weeks of average winter weather, old man winter decided to show up on the 26th - the worst snow storm Fort Wayne had in a decade. 2- 3 feet of white stuff falling throughout the day. It was my first of many run-ins with Old Man Winter. To this very day, I hate his stinking guts. Most of the town closed up at some point during the day but the concert stayed the course and was planned to go ahead as scheduled. The arena was about 3 miles from our house. We got stuck about three times on the way. Each time, my dad got out of the car and dug us out while his little 12 year old KISS fan stayed inside the car, all warm and toasty. We finally got to the Arena as the doors were opening. It was the first time of many in my life that I heard loud and clear the chant "one, two, three, four..... open up the f---king doors!" at general admission concerts. I knew right then this night would be awesome. Once we got inside, my dad let me go down to the front of he floor while he waited in the concourse hanging with the local police officers. Police were normally used to supplement security at these small town concerts. Remember, this was only a few years after Woodstock. Concerts like this were still a relatively new concept, with a bad rep. I made my way down to the front, on Gene's side of the stage, right in front of the giant PA system.... just enough to give a great view of the stage. I was in awe of the enormity of everything. The sound system and lights back then were not supported from the ceiling but sat on the stage. The PA was like a huge black castle, a wall of sound. I remember how the songs sounded as they played over that PA pre-show .....so loud and great. I am pretty sure that it was at this time that I heard Sweet Emotion for the very first time. I also remember hearing Whole Lotta Love but I was already familiar with that one as my neighbor across the street had an older brother who had Led Zeppelin II and we used to sneak it out of his bedroom while he wasn't there and listen to it many times. So there I was, standing up against the front barricade, 12 years old, the huge stage and sound system right in front of me, Aerosmith and Led Zeppelin cranking at volumes I have never heard before, and KISS about to play live on that very stage a mere two hours away - I realized at that very moment that I had found my home.

The lineup was KISS headlining, Ted Nugent and the Amboy Dukes as the middle act and Mott as the opener. Ian Hunter and Mick Ronson had recently left Mott the Hoople and the band continued on with new replacements under the name "Mott". Anyway , the 7:30 start time finally arrived . Then 7:40, then 7:50. Since it was my first concert , it did not seem abnormal to me that the concert didn't start on time. Finally at about 8:15, the music was cut and a man stood at center stage. He said he was the promoter and had some bad news for us. He said "Pink wasn't well and stayed back at the hotel". Just kidding. Actually, he said that three of the four members of KISS were snowed in, in Toledo Ohio and would not be making it to the concert. He promised us that KISS would be returning to make up the show as soon as they could. Those in attendance could do one of two things. Stay and hear Mott and Ted Nugent. Nugent would play an extended set as he was now the headliner. Or two, leave now and get a voucher for a KISS ticket when they return to make up the show. After finding my dad, we decided to leave and get the vouchers. We did not know how quick KISS would be coming back and money was tight back then... even at $5.50 a ticket. So we got the voucher and left along with about a third of the arena, as was reported in the newspaper the next day. We got home around 10 o' clock. The wait for KISS to return had begun.

To be continued.

BTW, KISS did return as promised, on April 11, 1976. I will follow up with the amazing account of that night soon.

[tragedybunny]

The Blade’s Edge - A League of Legends Fanfiction - Chapter 10

They had a simple arrangement. She was the weapon to be used on his enemies. Things get more complicated when emotions bleed into what should simple. Now the two of them find themselves on the precipice of something that was entirely unexpected. 

Lady Montrose has an old family name, an old family Manor, and an even older idea of how society should function. She also has a vast fortune to put behind her ideas, which is why most of them have flocked here. Of course these days the once great lady is a mere puppet for her grandson, Augustus. It is he who greets the guests and acts as host, a child playing dress-up, pretending to greatness.

“Ah, Grand General, Sir, Grandmother will be most honored.” He’s worse than a mere useless nobility fop, he’s spent so many years in scholarly pursuits, he now believes himself truly intelligent.

              His eyes genuinely light up when he greets Kat. “Katarina, it’s been forever, you look lovely.” He takes her hand, kisses it, and lingers entirely too long. There were rumors once about the two of them. I should ask her about it, it could prove useful. “We should talk later, it will be good to catch up.”

              We move along, further into the cavernous, ancient hall.  “Be careful what you say to him. I don’t trust him or this situation.”

              She just shrugs. “You don’t trust anyone.”

              “That’s beside the point. And not entirely true. I trust you don’t I?”

              She stops, she can’t hide the faint smile on her lips. “Fine, one exception.”

              “I mean there’s one or two more, probably.”

              “You’re not really making your case any better.” We’ve moved out of earshot of the boy, and she stops to whisper viciously at me. “Do you really think I’m an idiot though? Just look at him, he’d stab his own mother in back. In fact, that may have literally happened. You really think I’d trust him for a second?”

              She has a point. “No, that was reactionary.” I kiss her forehead, she leans into it. “Do stop trying to pick a fight though, you’ve been doing it since…” Right, her mother. I take her arm. “Earlier. I don’t want to spend all night arguing with you.” I keep my voice level, trying to prove my point. We continue moving.

              We cut through the overdressed crowd, wealth for them displayed as a show of strength, thronging between the overly plush parlors and the lavish ballroom. The lamps reflect off jewels at every turn, laughter flowing with the wine, and again they gossip and whisper as we pass. I pay it no mind, I’m here to achieve something, a step forward for Noxus.

              Kat’s voice cuts through the din. “Sorry for being difficult, I wasn’t expecting what happened earlier.”

              I’m slightly taken aback at her honesty. “Would you feel better if I found you someone to stab?”

              “Maybe.” It was supposed to make her smile again, but her response is a soft monotone.

  We pause again, stepping out of the flow of the crowd around us. I lean down to kiss her, pulling her against me, feeling every one of her curves pressed against me through her dress. “Or maybe we should wander off and find some place secluded.”

  She’s wrapped herself around me. “Wouldn’t that be too undignified for your position? Imagine the Grand General fucking some harlot in an abandoned hallway.” Her lips graze my ear and she has no idea how close I am to recreating that moment. There are more pressing matters however.  She sighs softly, not pulling out of my arms. “I don’t really want to fight with you.” Her words are uncharacteristically tinged with sadness.

  Frequently she’s angry or annoyed or irritable, she’s never sad. It strikes me as wrong somehow. I reach up to cup her cheek and brush my thumb along it. “Then let’s not.” She nods and lets me continue leading us toward our goal, stopping to grab a glass of wine from a passing servant.

  I spy Argos, engrossed in some conversation and looking as uncomfortable as ever. When he looks up and his eyes meet mine, I signal for him to follow. We come at last to a back parlor, buried in the depths of the house. The horde of guests has thinned out, leaving the area much quieter. Inside, Darius is already waiting with Augustus’s younger sister, Coraline.

  Argos looks around quickly, clearly trying to ascertain if the situation bids him ill. Coraline senses the tension and gestures around her. “Do take a seat.”

  The plush couches arranged in a semicircle are faded with age and fraying, the gilding is wearing off in some spots it would seem. The lamps are set low to attract less attention. “Is she here?” I look to Coraline.

  “Of course. Thankfully my dear brother let me handle some of the arrangements for this evening.” She rises to speak in hushed tones to a servant just outside the door.

  I take a seat directly across from Argos, Darius to my left. Kat remains standing behind me, draining another glass of wine she acquired from somewhere. In moments a short woman with sun-kissed skin is shown in by the servant.

  Coraline introduces her to our small group. “This is Amara Whitney. For those of you unfamiliar with our purpose here tonight, she has a most intriguing proposal for a strategy to quickly and reliably produce black powder weapons.” Argos and Darius lean forward, suitably invested in the revelation.

  “Correct.” The strength of her voice is disproportionate to her sleight frame. “By combining parts made to exact specifications and the rifled barrel, we can make unlimited, accurate, black powder weapons. With the steam engine providing power to machine those parts we can do it quickly and efficiently.” It’s a beautiful image, the forces of Noxus, armed with endless black powder weapons. It’s needed as well. The vision in the North gave me the first hint, but there have been others since, some conspiracy is establishing itself. I have an intimation who is agitating it, but it’s been frustratingly mostly chasing shadows. I know the Generals I have put in place will keep the army loyal though, and I may need it to be as deadly as possible. Just one of many security measures I’m working into place.

  “If funds were provided to set up the operation in small scale, you would guarantee your results?” I stare her down, searching for any sign of hesitation.

  She holds fast. “Of course, all that’s needed is funding.”

  “Your input?” I look to Darius and Argos.

  “That would be quite the advantage. Hextexch is near impossible to acquire in large numbers and we already control most of the black powder production on the continent.” Argos is eager.

  “It needs to be funded. High Command will be skeptical of taking that on.” Darius has a point.

  “I know, that’s why we need private investors.” Of course, I’ll be involved, but as promising as it is, I will not be bankrolling it solo. If it all works out though, selling the arms to the Empire should net a nice profit. There’s a reason I turned the family fortune from lands and estates to finance and investments.

  “So we need to decide who to go to. This may be too forward thinking for some of my more traditional peers.” Coraline looks pointedly at me and Kat, still standing behind me. “I will be happy to contribute, provided Augustus is not an obstacle.”  That is the conundrum, as stuck as they are in their ways, the Nobility still has plenty of resources. There is an alternative.

  “Why involve them at all?” All eyes turn to Kat. “They are rotting in their ways and traditions while the bankers and merchants thrive. Why not go to those who have been making their own fortune, at least they can see the future.”

  I turn my gaze toward her, stunned she involved herself, and more than a little impressed that she cut to the heart of the matter. “That’s exactly the solution. We don’t need them.” I haven’t been trying to convince her she has more abilities than just being an assassin for my own amusement. I reach up and put my hand over hers. “Very astute observation.”

  All eyes are still on her. “Right, I’m bored now. I’m going to find another drink.” She turns her back on those eyes and exits briskly.

  “She’s been spending way too much time with you.” Darius grins like he knows some hidden secret. “If she’s not careful you’re going to make her completely boring.”

  “Moving on. Coraline, secure an exit for our new friend. I’ll count on you to get meetings with the right investors. I’ll see to it that your brother isn’t much trouble at all”

  She nods, looking perfectly satisfied at my last words. “I will be in touch.”

  Finally, this night is nearing a conclusion. Although it has been enjoyable parading Kat around at my side. “We should all go out and fulfill our social obligations before leaving.” I look pointedly at Argos. “Let’s not make things too obvious for now. Darius, try not to drink our host dry.”

  “Kat’s probably already beat me to it.” I should find her before that gets close to being true.

  We exit one by one, slipping back into the sea of guests. I make the rounds, exchanging empty pleasantries, listening to numbing prattle, and keep an eye out for Kat. I know how she can get when the wine starts flowing, and she already hates crowds.

  There is no sign of her after I’ve passed through nearly every room that’s occupied.  Honestly, if she’s left on her own, we’ll have words later. Finally, hemmed in by some weasel faced little bureaucrat on the edge of the lavish ballroom I spot her, dancing with Augustus Montrose. I feel my jaw tighten, I explicitly warned her about him.

  I keep her in my sight, determined to see them separated without this turning into a scene between the two of us. I’ve never had the opportunity to see her dance before. Every step is elegant and perfectly measured, reflective of her other skills. The idiot leans in and says something and she laughs, looking absolutely carefree. Why is that almost anyone else can do that so easily?

  A huge shadow looms over me and the poor, sniveling fellow trying to engage me vanishes. Darius gets uncomfortably close, a wine glass in each hand. “You know, instead of glaring at Montrose like you're going to murder him later, you could just ask her to dance?”

  He’s entirely too fixated on this. “Are you implying I’m jealous?”

  “I’m not even implying, I saying it.”

  “Don’t be ridiculous. She’s free to do as she pleases. I just don’t want this having any consequences later.” I don’t need everyone here connecting the two of them.

  He rolls his eyes and continues drinking as a response. The music ends and Montrose walks her off the dance floor, finding another drink to pass to her. When she looks in my direction we lock eyes and she immediately looks down and away. Neither walk away and he continues to hover around her. That’s it, the pampered little fop has had enough of her time.

  I start towards them. “Nope, not jealous at all,” Darius mutters behind me.

  The music begins again. “One more dance?” His voice exudes artifice and practiced charm.

  I clear my throat behind them. “Apologies Augustus.” At least her apology wasn’t sincere and now we can finally be done with this. “I owe one to someone else.” She smiles and grabs my hand, pulling me toward the dance floor with surprising strength. This wasn’t what I had intended in the least.

  “By all means.” He bows graciously but stares daggers at me. Idiot.

  We find ourselves in the midst of a waltz, at the edge of the dance floor, perfectly visible to everyone. “Now everyone’s staring again.” Her cheeks are flushed, though if it’s the wine, the warmth of the room, or the attention, I can’t tell.

  “That’s because I don’t typically dance.” And I don’t know why I am now.

  “I can tell.” She laughs in that same carefree manner she had with Darius earlier. And like her smile at home, it’s been far too long since she laughed like that around me.

  “I’m not that bad, you’re very mean.”

  “Don’t worry, I’m good enough for both of us.” She’s right, I am terrible at this, but I struggle through. My timing is completely off and I step on her at least twice, but her hand in mine leads me on. The scent of violet perfume that surrounds her is almost intoxicating. It combines with the heat of the room and makes it difficult to draw breath. It’s a little bit of delirium, and dangerously I let the room and the crowd fade away in my mind until there’s just the two of us, just for a second. Then reality pushes back in and the foolishness of it seizes me. The waltz concludes and she lets out a little sigh. At least this has served as distraction enough that no one will remember her and Augustus. “I imagine you’re ready to leave.”

  A strand of her hair has come loose, I reach out and brush it behind her ear. “We could stay if you want.” She seemed so content. 

  She closes her eyes. “No, let’s go, I’m done with all this.”

  She leans her head on my shoulder the whole ride home, eyes half closed. I can tell she overdid it when I wasn’t watching. “So, when do you want me to kill him?” She finally breaks the silence.

  I hesitate, that was the last topic I expected. “Later.” I don’t want to worry about plots and plans and grand schemes for the rest of the night. “It can wait.”

  “Pretending to be somewhat pleasant tire you out?” Her lips brush my cheek softly, in direct opposition to her little jab.

  I pull her tighter against me. “You always insist on pushing your luck with me, don't you Kitten?”

  We finally come to a stop and I help her step down from the carriage. The snow has begun falling again, wet and heavy, blanketing the walk. She missteps and wobbles a bit, my arms wrap around her, keeping her on her feet. “Most dangerous assassin in Noxus, can’t walk in the snow.”

  She starts to dissolve into that soft giggling that only comes out when she’s like this.  “Shut it! It’s this stupid outfit I’m stuffed into.” 

  “And you’re tipsy. Do you need me to carry you?” She continues to laugh while playfully swatting my hand away. She looks breathtaking with the snow falling around her and her eyes lit up with genuine mirth. I wonder for a moment if we could always be like this. Could she be all happiness and smiles if I tried? Would she want that? Just to make life easier for both of us.

  The servants are all asleep and I keep her from waking Gwen when we get upstairs.  I’m tired of being around other people. “Who’s going to get me out of this damn thing?”

  “Be patient for a few seconds.” I take her shoulders and turn her away from me. I get to work on the tiny little buttons, followed by the lacing, their precious nature preventing me from using my left hand. She waits patiently, letting me take my time undressing her, finally sighing softly when my fingers trace her bare skin. I help her with the little pins in her hair, admiring the way it cascades down her back when freed.

  She turns and her arms entwine me as she leans in to give me a teasing kiss, lips parted ever so slightly, her intention obvious. “Not tonight my tipsy little Kitten. Straight to bed with you.” She pouts, as per usual when she’s been denied something, but makes her way to bed.

  When I join her under the covers she's already mostly asleep, curled up in the middle of the bed. “Move over.” I try to gently push her toward her side.

  She mumbles something sleepily but gives way, turning her back toward me. I take my place beside her and make sure the covers are pulled up around her, I know she hates it when she gets cold. My arm wraps around her waist and I lay a light kiss on her shoulder as she relaxes against me. “Night Jericho.” She whispers softly, eyes closed.

  "Goodnight Kat." Sleep eludes me though as I lay here, holding this moment in my mind. It means more than it should, her curled up next to me, content in my arms. I can’t puzzle it out, I tell myself to let it go. I kiss the top of her head and finally begin to drift off. 

[ibuypueblo0]

Pueblo Real Estate Companies Help Buy Homes Fast

Many people are interested in how to I Buy Pueblo Houses, Colorado. The main cities in Pueblo, such as Pueblo, Montrose, and Denver are very popular vacation destinations for many Westerners. This means there is a large concentration of people who are looking to buy homes in these areas. Because these cities have been so well liked by tourists, many real estate companies are looking to help their customers get the homes they want. One way that these companies can help their customers is by helping them buy houses in Pueblo.

There are many companies in Pueblo that can help their customers buy their dream home. These companies are eager to show any Pueblo house that their customers are interested in. If you are an individual who is interested in buying a home in Pueblo, there are several ways for you to find a company that will help you purchase your new home. You can start out by checking out some of the local ads in the newspaper. Most times, people will advertise their homes for sale in the Pueblo newspaper hoping that someone will come by and take notice of it.

Another way to find the Pueblo companies that will help you buy houses in Pueblo is to ask around. Many of the people living in Pueblo are selling their homes and would like someone who lives nearby to help them out. If you aren't sure where someone lives, you might ask the people you know and see if they have any recommendations for you. Sometimes, all you have to do is ask.

If you aren't able to find someone to recommend a company to you, then you might consider searching on the Internet. One way to find a company that will help you purchase your Pueblo home is to look at the websites of real estate companies. These companies have different sections for Pueblo homes for sale. You can usually click on one of these sections and find a company that fits your criteria. Although you can use any type of search on the Internet, it is always best to use a website that has the highest quality customer service to visit sell my home fast pueblo.

Before you allow any Pueblo real estate company to list your Pueblo house for sale, you should do some research on the company. Find out how long the company has been in business, what type of experience the real estate company has, and what other customers have to say about the company. You should also contact the Better Business Bureau to find out whether or not the company has had any complaints against it. You can also search the Internet for real estate company reviews. By doing this, you will be able to learn if the company will really help you when you decide to sell your home.

A great thing about using a Pueblo real estate company to help you buy your Pueblo house is that they will work with you to ensure that you will get the best price for your home. These companies are made up of experienced professionals who understand how to buy a house quickly in Pueblo. They can even offer you pre-approval to help expedite the process. Once an offer is made on your home, the company will act as the negotiator between you and the buyer. This allows you to take care of closing costs and any problems that come up before you officially sell your home.

Contact us:

I Buy Pueblo Houses Address: 316 W Evans Ave, Pueblo, Co 81004 Phone: 719-299-0741 Email: zac@ibuypueblohouses.com

[convergenceproperties1]

Sell My House Fast in Grand Junction, Colorado: Local Market Insights

When it comes to selling your home in Grand Junction, Colorado, understanding the local market is crucial. Grand Junction offers a unique real estate landscape influenced by various factors, including demographics, economic conditions, and seasonal trends. This comprehensive guide will provide valuable insights into the local market, helping you make informed decisions to sell your house quickly and effectively.

1. Overview of the Grand Junction Real Estate Market

Grand Junction, located on the western slope of Colorado, is known for its stunning landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and vibrant community. The real estate market here reflects the area's appeal, attracting both local and out-of-state buyers when considering sell my house fast Grand Junction Colorado.

Current Market Trends:

Inventory Levels: As of 2024, Grand Junction has experienced fluctuations in housing inventory. A lower inventory generally creates a seller’s market, while higher inventory can lead to more competition among sellers.

Home Prices: Home prices in Grand Junction have seen a steady increase over the past few years. Understanding the price trends in your neighborhood is essential for setting a competitive listing price.

Days on Market: Properties in desirable areas often sell quickly, with many homes receiving offers within days of listing. Staying informed about average days on market for your area can help you gauge when to adjust your strategy.

2. Demographics and Buyer Profiles

Understanding the demographics of Grand Junction can provide insights into the types of buyers interested in your property.

Key Demographic Insights:

Age Groups: Grand Junction has a diverse population, including families, young professionals, and retirees. Tailoring your marketing strategy to appeal to these different demographics can increase your chances of a quick sale.

Income Levels: The median household income in Grand Junction influences the types of homes buyers can afford. Knowing the average price range buyers are comfortable with can help you set an appropriate listing price.

Lifestyle Preferences: Many residents in Grand Junction value outdoor activities and community engagement. Highlighting nearby parks, hiking trails, and local amenities in your listing can attract potential buyers.

3. Seasonal Market Dynamics

The time of year can significantly impact the real estate market in Grand Junction. Understanding seasonal trends can help you time your listing for maximum exposure.

Spring and Summer:

Peak Selling Season: Spring and summer are typically the most active seasons for real estate sales in Grand Junction. Families often prefer to move during the summer months to avoid disrupting their children’s school year.

Increased Showings: The pleasant weather encourages more buyers to attend open houses and showings, increasing your home’s visibility.

Fall and Winter:

Slower Activity: The market tends to slow down in fall and winter due to holidays and weather conditions. However, motivated buyers may be looking for properties during this time, presenting an opportunity for sellers.

Holiday Preparations: If you choose to sell during the winter, consider how holiday decorations can enhance your home’s appeal while keeping it warm and inviting.

4. Economic Factors Influencing the Market

Several economic factors can influence the real estate market in Grand Junction. Staying informed about these factors can help you make strategic decisions.

Local Economy:

Job Growth: Grand Junction has seen growth in sectors such as healthcare, education, and tourism. A strong job market can drive demand for housing as people relocate for employment opportunities.

Interest Rates: Mortgage interest rates can impact buyer affordability. When rates are low, more buyers are likely to enter the market, potentially leading to faster sales.

Investment Opportunities:

Rental Market: With a growing population, the demand for rental properties has also increased. If you’re considering selling an investment property, the local rental market can provide insights into potential returns.

5. Marketing Strategies for Success

To sell your house fast in Grand Junction, implementing effective marketing strategies tailored to the local market is essential.

Targeted Online Marketing:

Listing on Real Estate Platforms: Ensure your home is listed on popular real estate websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and local MLS platforms. Use high-quality images and engaging descriptions to attract buyers.

Social Media Promotion: Utilize social media platforms to reach a broader audience. Share engaging content showcasing your home’s features and local community highlights.

Engaging Local Agents:

Partner with Local Experts: Work with a real estate agent familiar with the Grand Junction market. Their insights and network can help you navigate the selling process effectively.

Networking Opportunities: Agents often have access to potential buyers through open houses, networking events, and marketing campaigns, increasing your home’s visibility.

6. Preparing Your Home for Sale

Proper preparation can significantly impact your home’s appeal and sell my house fast Grand Junction Colorado speed. Here are essential steps to take before listing your home.

Key Preparation Steps:

Home Improvements: Consider making necessary repairs or updates that can enhance your home’s value. Fresh paint, updated fixtures, and landscaping can make a significant difference.

Staging Your Home: Home staging can help buyers visualize themselves in the space. Declutter, depersonalize, and arrange furniture to create an inviting atmosphere.

Curb Appeal: Enhance your home’s exterior to create a positive first impression. Simple landscaping, a fresh coat of paint, and clean windows can make your home stand out.

7. Understanding Offers and Negotiations

Once your home is on the market, be prepared to review offers and engage in negotiations.

Evaluating Offers:

Offer Price vs. Market Value: Compare offers to your asking price and recent sales in your neighborhood. Look for buyers willing to pay a fair market value.

Contingencies and Flexibility: Consider any contingencies attached to the offers. Be open to negotiations regarding closing dates, repairs, or financing terms.

Effective Negotiation Tips:

Remain Objective: Keep emotions in check and focus on the facts. Respond to offers professionally, considering all aspects of the deal.

Counteroffers: Don’t hesitate to counter an offer if it doesn’t meet your expectations. A well-crafted counter can keep negotiations moving in your favor.

8. Closing the Deal

Once you’ve accepted an offer, it’s time to prepare for the closing process. Understanding what to expect can help you navigate this final step smoothly.

Closing Process Overview:

Inspection and Appraisal: Be prepared for the buyer’s home inspection and appraisal. Address any issues that may arise during this process.

Final Walkthrough: The buyer will likely conduct a final walkthrough to ensure the property is in the agreed-upon condition. Be ready for this step to ensure a smooth transition.

Documents to Prepare:

Title and Ownership Records: Have all necessary documents ready, including title documents and any warranties related to your home.

Disclosure Statements: Be prepared to provide disclosure statements regarding the condition of your home, ensuring transparency with the buyer.

Conclusion

Selling your home fast in Grand Junction, Colorado, requires a thorough understanding of the local market, effective preparation, and strategic marketing. By staying informed about market trends, demographics, and economic factors, you can position your home for a successful sale.

At Convergence Properties Inc., we specialize in helping homeowners navigate the selling process with ease. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized service tailored to your unique needs. If you’re ready to sell your home and need expert assistance, contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your selling goals!

Reference: Sell my house Fast Grand Junction colorado

Reference: Sell house Grand Junction

Reference: Sell my Mesa County house fast

[convergenceproperties]

Easy Steps to Get Your Home Ready for Sale in Grand Junction

Selling your home in Grand Junction, Colorado, can be an exciting yet challenging journey. To ensure a smooth and successful sale, it’s essential to prepare your home effectively. This guide outlines easy steps to get your home ready for sale, maximizing its appeal to potential buyers.

1. Declutter and Organize

One of the first steps in preparing your home for sale is to declutter and organize your living space. A tidy home allows potential buyers to visualize their own belongings in the space.

Why Decluttering Matters:

Creates Space: Removing excess items makes your home feel larger and more inviting.

Enhances Appeal: A clean and organized home is more attractive and gives an impression of good maintenance.

How to Declutter:

Sort Items: Go through each room and categorize items into keep, donate, recycle, and throw away. Be ruthless—less is more!

Storage Solutions: Consider renting a storage unit for items you don’t use daily but want to keep. This clears out clutter without discarding sentimental belongings.

2. Make Minor Repairs

Addressing minor repairs before listing your home can significantly enhance its appeal and value. Buyers often look for homes that require minimal work.

Common Repairs to Consider:

Leaky Faucets: Fix any dripping faucets or plumbing issues.

Cracks and Holes: Patch any holes in walls or ceilings and repair any cracks in the paint.

Doors and Windows: Ensure all doors and windows open smoothly and check for any broken screens.

How to Approach Repairs:

DIY or Hire Professionals: Depending on your skill level, tackle simple repairs yourself or hire a handyman for more complex issues.

Create a Checklist: Make a list of repairs needed throughout the house to keep track of tasks.

3. Deep Clean Your Home

A thorough cleaning is crucial for making a good impression. A clean home not only looks better but also smells fresher, making it more appealing to buyers.

Areas to Focus On:

Kitchens and Bathrooms: These areas should be spotless, as buyers pay special attention to cleanliness in high-traffic spaces.

Floors and Carpets: Vacuum carpets, mop floors, and consider professional cleaning for any heavily soiled areas.

Windows: Clean windows inside and out to maximize natural light and improve the overall look of your home.

Cleaning Tips:

Use a Checklist: Create a cleaning checklist to ensure no area is overlooked.

Consider Hiring Professionals: If time is limited, hiring a professional cleaning service can save you time and effort.

4. Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. Curb appeal is essential, as it’s the first thing potential buyers will see. A well-maintained exterior can make a significant impact.

How to Boost Curb Appeal:

Landscaping: Trim hedges, mow the lawn, and plant colorful flowers. A neat yard creates a welcoming environment.

Paint and Repair: Consider a fresh coat of paint for your front door and address any chipped or peeling paint on the exterior.

Lighting: Update outdoor lighting fixtures or add solar lights along walkways to enhance the entryway.

Quick Curb Appeal Fixes:

Pressure Wash: Clean sidewalks and driveways to remove dirt and grime.

New House Numbers: Consider replacing old house numbers with modern ones for a fresh look.

5. Stage Your Home

Staging your home effectively can help potential buyers visualize how they would use the space. A well-staged home often sells faster and at a higher price.

Staging Tips:

Neutral Decor: Opt for neutral colors in decor and furnishings. This helps buyers envision their style in the space.

Furniture Arrangement: Arrange furniture to create an open flow and maximize space. Consider removing oversized furniture that can make rooms feel cramped.

Highlight Key Features: Emphasize any unique architectural features or focal points in each room, such as fireplaces or built-in shelves.

Professional Staging:

Consider Hiring a Stager: A professional stager can provide insights and arrange your home to appeal to the broadest audience possible.

6. Set the Right Price

Pricing your home correctly is vital for attracting buyers. A well-priced home generates more interest and can lead to quicker offers.

How to Determine the Right Price:

Research Comparable Sales: Look at similar homes in your neighborhood that have sold recently to gauge pricing trends.

Get a Professional Appraisal: Consider hiring a real estate appraiser for an accurate assessment of your home’s value.

Work with an Agent:

Consult a Real Estate Agent: An experienced local agent can provide valuable insights into pricing and market conditions. They can help you set a competitive price that attracts buyers while maximizing your return.

7. Market Your Home Effectively

Once your home is ready for sale, it’s crucial to market it effectively. Utilize various platforms to reach potential buyers.

Marketing Strategies:

Online Listings: List your home on popular real estate websites, including high-quality photos and a detailed description.

Social Media: Promote your listing on social media platforms to reach a wider audience.

Open Houses: Host open houses to attract local buyers. Ensure your home is clean and inviting for visitors.

Work with a Real Estate Agent:

Leverage Agent’s Network: A real estate agent has access to resources and networks that can help market your home effectively.

8. Prepare for Showings

Being prepared for showings is essential for creating a positive impression on potential buyers.

Tips for Successful Showings:

Flexible Scheduling: Be accommodating with showing times to attract more potential buyers.

Keep it Clean: Maintain cleanliness and order in your home at all times, as you never know when a potential buyer might want to view the property.

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere: Open curtains to let in natural light and consider soft background music to create a pleasant ambiance.

Conclusion

Getting your home ready for sale in Grand Junction doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these easy steps—decluttering, making repairs, deep cleaning, enhancing curb appeal, staging, pricing correctly, marketing effectively, and preparing for showings—you can increase your home’s appeal and maximize its selling potential.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity! Act now and schedule your site visit today by providing your details at (970) 414-1311, emailing convergeprops@gmail.com, or visiting our website: Sell My Home Grand Junction With the right preparation, you can successfully navigate the selling process and achieve your goals!

[igrublocal]

The Best Takeout I Ate This Month, When I Could Only Eat Takeout

In the span of three weeks, I somehow managed two moves while trying to find an apartment that I liked: from Uptown to Woodlawn, then from Woodlawn to Printers Row. Turns out that I need someplace larger than a tiny studio, and also within walking distance of a coffee shop (preferably one that has macadamia milk).

There was a lot of packing and unpacking, and packing again to unpack. But the one thing I never unpacked was my kitchen, so I found myself grabbing something to-go, virtually every day, in neighborhoods across the city. And of all the things I ate, these are my favorites. So if you’re looking for good takeout, read on.

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The Takeout

 in 

$$$$ 2621 S Halsted St.

Cold Noodles

This is the spot formally known as A Place by Damao, right on the border of Bridgeport and Chinatown. Da Mao Jia specializes in Chengdu cuisine and is home to one of my favorite dishes in the city. It’s the sweet and spicy cold noodle, made with perfectly chewy handmade noodles, peanut sauce, and a housemade chili oil. In fact, the entire menu is delicious, and the cold noodles also serve as a refreshing palate cleanser in between mouth-numbing bites of the wontons in volcano broth, or their ChengDu Spicy Duck Wings.

 in 

$$$$ Wilson

Meat & Jollof Plate

The best part about living in Uptown was all the different West African restaurants I had the chance to try. Out of those, Palace Gate Ghanaian Restaurant became my go-to. A lot of different stews, rice, and starches make up the menu, but my favorite is the meat and jollof plate. It’s a container packed with deliciousness - spicy, fragrant rice, tender stewed beef, and ripe, roasted plantain.

 in 

$$$$ 4949 N Broadway St

Khao Soi

Another Uptown favorite, Immm Rice & Beyond serves up a khao soi that’s so good I ordered it at least once a week while I lived in the neighborhood. The dish is a spicy but sweet curry with braised beef, hand-cut noodles, and topped with a tangle of fried noodles and a dollop of chili paste. It’s a great mix of flavors and textures, and thanks to their khao soi, this dish has become the first thing I look for on the menu of any new Thai restaurant I visit.

$$$$ 2447 N Clark St

Hot Wings

You know how you have those hot wings that are hot, but somehow still bland? No kick, not enough salt, and the only notable flavor is “spicy”. They’re the worst, and far too common. But House of Wings is breaking that cycle with their crispy, well-seasoned, and well-sauced hot wings out of a little storefront in Lincoln Park. Plus there’s no seating, so this place was primed for takeout even before the pandemic.

,   in 

$$$$ 901 W Randolph St

Mr. G Sandwich

I call this the Italian sandwich to beat out all Italian sandwiches. The Mr. G comes courtesy of J.P Graziano’s, a family-run place serving up subs (hoagies, cold cuts, sandwiches, heros, whatever) in the West Loop since 1933. In other words, way before rent went up 500%. And their longevity must be based on the fact that the sandwiches are straight-up quality - made with chewy fresh-baked bread from D’Amato’s, imported meats, cheeses, spices, and oils. The Mr. G (named after the original owner) is layered with sharp provolone, hot soppressata, prosciutto, genoa salami, truffle mustard, balsamic vinaigrette, hot oil, marinated artichokes, fresh basil, and lettuce.

$$$$ 3452 S Western Ave

Croissant Breakfast Sandwich

In the words of a famous Chicagoan, “Hurry up with my damn croissants!” But please don’t actually say this to the nice people at Butterdough in McKinley Park. I warn you though, the airy, buttery croissants will make you wanna curse. The pastries alone are good, but when they put bacon, lettuce, tomato, avocado, and herbed ranch on said croissant? I was hooked. But get there early, ’cause once they’re gone, they’re gone - and they sell out quick.

$$$$ 1646 W 18th St

Pork Jibarito Plate

Usually, I go to Humboldt Park to satisfy my jibarito craving. But Jibarito Stop (which started out as a food truck and is woman-owned), set up shop right in the heart of Pilsen and is making some seriously delicious jibaritos. I like ordering the pork with arroz con gandules and a Champagne kola, but they also have great dinner plates, like stewed black beans or empanadas.

$$$$ Location changes

Steak Taco

This one only pops-up occasionally so requires a bit of planning, but is worth the effort. Taco Sublime is a taco truck from the Under The Bridge Project, a community rehabilitation non-profit, that serves the best steak taco I’ve ever had. The perfectly-seasoned meat is tender and the salsa is tangy and delicious, but what really sets it apart is the caramelized cheese coating the inside of the corn tortilla. And the best part (even better than the crispy cheese) is that they donate their profits to different local charities every time they come out and serve food.

A post shared by Tacosublime (@tacosublime) on Jun 8, 2020 at 1:46pm PDT

 in 

$$$$ 1637 W Montrose

Tropical Arepa

I have a special relationship with arepas. The first time I ever had one was while working on a Venezuelan food truck after deciding to quit my marketing internship post-college graduation. During that time I made (and ate) hundreds, if not thousands, of arepas - so I know a good one when I bite into it. And the huge arepas at Bienmesabe are good ones. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and stuffed with meat, handmade white cheese, and a variety of other delicious fillings. My favorite is the tropical arepa, which has shredded chicken, black beans, and plantains.

 in 

$$$$ 57 E 47th St

Bananas Foster Combo Scoop

That line isn’t out the door for nothing. If you’re craving something sweet, Shawn Michelle’s makes some of the best ice cream in the city. The first time I went I wanted to try virtually everything, but there are over 25 flavors, so I ended up going with the bananas foster combo: a mix of banana pudding and Jamaican rum raisin ice creams. Y’all. This woman made me like raisins. Let that be a testament to how good the ice cream is here.

[samuelmmarcus]

Beautiful Homes of Instagram: Charlotte, NC

  Hello, my dear friends. How are you today? I have to take a minute to tell you all how grateful I am for your presence here on Home Bunch. I took a few days off last week and I have to tell you that I feel so Blessed for taking this little break and be able to be back to this space that is ours. This short break allowed me to analyze my gratitude for all of the important things in my life and this is a big part of it. Thank you for coming here, for reading the blog and for your loyalty. I certainly hope that you always find inspiration and knowledge here, and also feel a little lighter and happier every time you come to the blog.

Talking about feeling happy, this is exactly how I feel every time I feature this talented builder (previously featured here & here) and it’s truly great to have them on our “Beautiful Homes of Instagram” today. Here, the builder shares some incredible details – not to mention, all sources – with us. Read on:

  “Pike Properties builds in the urban and close to town neighborhoods in Charlotte, NC. Typically lots range from 50 feet to 60 feet in width, with an occasional needle in a haystack lot that is wider. This homesite was a needle in a haystack. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac and measuring 114 feet at the setback, and 224 feet at the rear property line, this homesite allowed Pike Properties to spread their wings and fly. What that meant was that they were able to build an expansive property without constraints and along with it, make it truly amazing both inside and out. The resale value was maximized thanks to the property, so splurging on interior finishes was a must. What is in store for you in this home tour is something you definitely don’t want to skip over! Let’s take a closer look.”

  Feel free to pin, save and share this beautiful home.

  Beautiful Homes of Instagram: Charlotte, NC

From the conceptual rendering of this home’s exterior, something very special was born. Pike Properties actually pre-sold this home before breaking ground after a couple saw it online and barged into their office essentially begging for them to allow them to purchase so early on. Normally, Pike will pre-sell but that usually isn’t until after framing. Change orders aren’t allowed, FYI. This home spoke volumes and was so hard to find that interest was shown so early on. Pike agreed to pre-sale and this home was under contract before the first dirt was moved and footings poured.

You will notice that this home is broken into two sections, divided by a “cat walk” and lower breezeway which connects the garage and mudroom on the main floor, and upstairs living spaces with a bonus room/flex space up. By designing it this way, it doesn’t overwhelm and seem too large. The presence remains humble.

Of course Pike had to paint the home WHITE. White houses are just oh so popular, and with a large front facade, they didn’t want to risk another darker color, or even a tan. Plus, the white paint really allows the cedar accents to pop. Benjamin Moore Olympic Mountains was selected for the paint color, with cedar accents, garage door, and fir front door stained in Benjamin Moore Hidden Valley. To blend, the roof chose is CertainTeed Sunrise Cedar. Dark Bronze metal roof accents and gutters contrast ever so slightly.

Genuine Hardie Siding was used on the exterior, for low-maintenance and quality purposes, and you just can’t beat their warranty!

Garage Coach Light- St. James Lighting Montrose.

Curb Appeal

It’s hard to decide if this home looks better during the day or at dusk! One thing is for sure though, when the sun sets over this residence, lights come on inside, and dinner is prepared, there is no place better to call HOME.

Kitchen

There are a handful of different directions you can go with kitchen design these days, and here Pike Properties decided to use neutral, crisp, and clean elements that blend seamlessly but also have some visual interest. Stark white was a no go, but instead the custom, locally crafted cabinetry is painted in “Benjamin Moore 1472 Silver Chain” which has a calming gray tone. The Schaub and Company Menlo Park Satin Brass hardware contrasts nicely with the cabinet color and the brass is actually toned down a bit by the gray versus a white.

Guests are sure to be impressed by the 60″ professional grade Frigidaire refrigerator and food storage isn’t an issue here. The fact of the matter is, that for the price, this makes a bigger statement than you’ll find with any other fridge on the market.

Refrigerator, Freezer & Trim Kit.

Backsplash & Countertop

Pike Properties views the range wall of a kitchen as a piece or artwork or the centerpiece of the space. Typically, there is no wall space to hang art in a kitchen, so the result is needing to use practical aspects of the space and turn them into artwork. That is what you see here with the picture frame accent tile over the 48″ range. This tile is by no means cheap, but when using such a small quantity is relatively affordable and makes a statement that is unlike anything else. The tile is Soho Studio Empress Helena, and it is truly artwork. In person, the small cubes sparkle and brass banding shines bright. It is a sight to see.

Pike stuck with a simple range hood design so as to not distract from the backsplash masterpiece.

The countertop surfaces are covered in striking Cosmos Mont Blanc marble which offers white, gray, and charcoal tones.

Luxurious Backsplash Tiles: Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here, Here & Here.

Main Backsplash Tile- Jeffrey Court Wall Street White 3×9 – Other Marble Tiles: here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Range- Jenn-Air 48″ Pro-Style.

Pot Filler- Delta Contemporary in Matte Black.

Cabinet Hardware: Schaub and co Menlo Park.

Sconces- Savoy House Morland in Warm Brass – similar here & here.

Kitchen Pendants

Kitchen Pendant Lights- Hinkley Fletcher in Aged Zinc. Other Lighting on Sale: here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Hardwood Flooring

The open concept kitchen and dining room is ever so slightly broken up by the large cased opening. The floors you see here span throughout 90% of the home (minus tiled areas) and are 4″ #1 White Oak in Rubio Monocoat Mud Light finish. Rubio Monocoat products offer many benefits including durability, eco-friendly ingredients, and single layer application.

Similar Hardwood Flooring: here & here.

Kitchen Faucet- Brizo Litze in Matte Black and Brillance Luxe Gold.

Kitchen Sink: Blanco Profina.

Counterstools: Gabby Furniture – Other Great Counterstools: here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Dining Room

Removed just enough, but still open to the kitchen is the sole dining space in the home. The formal dining room, the breakfast room, the kids homework table (well actually there’s a built-in space for that…. stay tuned!), and whatever else you use the dining table for, this is the spot in this home. That said, it was important to go formal enough, but still keep it casual when selected design elements, trim detail, etc. It even started with the layout. When working with their award-wining architects, Frusterio Design, Pike Properties made sure to have the French door set leading out to the rear covered porch from the dining room to keep it a bit casual and allow for easy indoor/outdoor flow.

Two elements of trim detail liven up the space and a hint of elegance. Simple Shiplap wainscoting standing 48″ off the floor dresses up the wall space and lessens the need for large and expensive artwork, which is especially nice considering that most of the wall space is taken up by windows and doors. The ceiling trim detail is comprised of two elements and is a favorite detail to add to a dining space at Pike Properties. It is called an X-beam ceiling formed by 2 flush beams (framed in wood and wrapped in drywall). The inlaid V-groove trim makes everything stand out and adds definition to what could end up being hard to notice.

Beautiful Dining Tables: here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Chairs on Sale: here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Similar Rugs: here & here.

Chandelier

Chandelier- Visual Comfort Choros 28 Inch.

Covered Rear Porch

This home maintains complete privacy at the rear, so bring on the outdoor living and plenty of evenings spent by the fireplace! With a vaulted ceiling soaring 24′ high and covered in stained V-groove, the grandeur doesn’t end inside. Pike ensured this space was large enough to accommodate two separate seating areas, one for lounging by the gas fireplace and the other for dining al-fresco.

Living Room

The main living space in this home is right here, located in the heart of the home between the kitchen area and owner’s retreat. Of course, immediately you notice the 15′ set of Panoramic Doors leading outside. WOW! These doors are manufactured custom to order and are made out of Aluminum in a bronze finish. Five individual panels fold on top of each other to create a fully opening wall of glass. See the next photo for a fully opened view.

Paint Color

Paint colors remain neutral and calming throughout the home. Pike has standard colors they always use to keep their homes consistent and that go best with their style and vibe. For main living spaces, hallways, secondary bedrooms and utility areas Pike uses Benjamin Moore Dove Wing. All inside trim tends to be Benjamin Moore White Dove. For the Owner’s Retreat spaces, Benjamin Moore Halo is utilized to create a soothing and warm toned space without going away from the neutral theme. Secondary bathrooms are all painted Benjamin Moore Moonshine.

Great Quality Rugs: here, here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Cat Walk

Remember on the front exterior when the “catwalk” was mentioned? Well here it is on the inside! Essentially a fancy hallway, this area connects the main upstairs living area with a bonus/flex space over the garage. Windows on both sides looking out makes you feel like you are walking on a catwalk, or over a bridge.

This is a good time to mention that all the interiors doors in this home are painted in Sherwin Williams Iron Ore.

Master Bedroom

Ensuring the highest probability of sweet dreams is at the top of Pike Properties priority list. A bedroom should always be calming, relaxing, and serene. The Crate and Barrel Finley drum pendant softens the spaces, and texture and visual interest is evoked with the diagonal shiplap bed wall. For just a tad extra in trim, doing a diagonal shiplap bed wall is a perfect way to take your bedroom to new heights.

Lighting: Crate & Barrel – Other Chandeliers: here, here, here & here.

Beautiful Nightstands: here, here, here, here & here.

Recommended Bedding: here & here.

Master Bathroom

Everything is not all sunshine and butterflies in home building, that is for sure. One story about this space demonstrates just a hint at that. Mirrors were completed left out of selections as an accidental oversight. It was three days before the professional photo shoot and mirrors were being hung when that was realized. A quick online search and scramble ensued and these were the result. Pretty fitting and amazingly blended for a last minute selection!

The rustic warmth the Restoration Hardware Printmakers vanity (similar here) brings in to the space is much needed to keep it from being all gray and white tones. Pike also loves incorporating rustic styling into their builds.

How often do you accidentally splash a little water onto your drywall behind the sink when brushing teeth or washing your hair? This likely has happened to you a time or two, or 100. Not only is the tile accent wall stylish, it is also functional. Splashing water on tile is much less noticeable and definitely not as likely to prompt you to grab a towel to dry it up.

Wall Tile- Merola tile Kite Dark Gray – similar here.

Other Bathroom Vanities: here, here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Mirrors- Rejuvenation Rounded Rectangular Metal Framed.

Vanity Top- Cosmos Mont Blanc (Same as in kitchen).

Faucets- Delta Trinsic 8″ Widespread in Matte Black.

Pendants- Hinkley Academy.

Spa-like

Whether you are a bath or shower person, you are in for a treat in this spa-like setting. The walk-in shower is of a very unique design and also is lacking any sort of door or glass. The actual shower with dual heads is out of view inside the section to the right. The area where you first step into from the bathroom floor is actually known as a dry area and is where the towel racks are located. It is meant to be a spot for drying off but without having to worry about a floor mat or getting water all over the bathroom floor. Very practical and stylish!

Tub- Signature Hardware Nina Acrylic 70″ Freestanding Tub.

Tub Faucet- Delta Trinsic in matte Black.

Shower Floor Tile- MSI Surfaces Telaio 2″ Hexagon Honed.

Shower Wall Tile- Jeffrey Court 3×12 Starry White Beveled.

Chandelier- Visual Comfort Venetian – Others: here, here, here, here, here, here, here & here.

Guest Bathroom

This is the downstairs guest bath which could very well be used as an in-law suite. Pike Properties wanted to keep it a little more formal and elegant by bringing in the brushed brass fixtures and picking a furniture vanity with more traditional lines and trim. Plus, just wait until you see the shower! Paint color is Benjamin Moore Moonshine.

Vanity- Allen and Roth Perrella 37 inch – Similar: here & here.

Mirror- Allen and Roth – similar here.

Faucet- Delta Dryden 8″ in Champagne Bronze.

Light- Park Harbor Mooretown.

Shower

In addition to the beauty of it, there are a handful of benefits to a zero-entry or curbless shower.

– They are functional. Anyone and everyone can get in and out of a zero entry shower and the risk or falling is minimal. No curb to trip over.

-They are easier to clean. Not as many tight areas and a seamless flow with your bathroom floor is a breeze to clean.

-You are left with clear visibility of the shower floor, so that pretty tile that was splurged on can actually be seen.

A curbless shower with hinged glass enclosure is a win-win and aesthetically pleasing and clean.

Wall Tile- Florida Tile Dorian Streamline 3×6 – similar here – Other Tiles: here, here, here, here, here & here.

Floor Tile- Jeffrey Court Carrara Bianco Mosaic  similar here & here – Others: here & here.

Second Upstairs Guest Bath

Clean and simple, perfect for a kids bathroom! The classic floor tiles are timeless.

Floor Tile- Soho Studio Denim 1″ Vanilla Circles – similar here.

Vanity- Allen and Roth Presnell 37 inch in White – Others: here, here, here, here & here.

Mirrors: White Beveled Wall Mirror.

Faucet- Delta Dryden Widespread in Chrome.

Light- Kichler Braelyn.

Upstairs Guest Bath

The best part about this bathroom can be seen in the mirror. The dark navy subway tiled walk-in shower contrasts so well with the white around it and makes the shower a focal point of the room. Accenting a shower with dark tile is something more people should do!

Vanity- Allen and Roth Presnell 37 inch in White.

Faucet- Delta Dryden Widespread in Chrome.

Shower Tile- Hampton Steele Blue 4×24 – Others: here & here.

Floor Tile- Florida Tile Mosaic Art Epic 1×1 Hexagon White – similar here.

Light- Kichler Braelyn.

Laundry Room

Cabinet Paint Color- Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Laundry is typically not fun, but at least by adding some exciting and funky tile it can become just a bit more enjoyable. Storage is not a problem thanks to the full-height built in cabinet unit.

Floor Tile- Jeffrey Court – similar here.

Homework Nook

Tired of the kids homework cluttering the kitchen counter, dining table, or coffee table in the living room? A great solution is a dedicated spot for homework, and there is just about no better way to create that than what you see here. A custom built-in desk with spots for two chairs and plenty of storage is topped with Aspen CQ Quartz making for the fanciest and most perfect spot to get homework done. This is also a wonderful spot for crafting. Library sconces provide great lighting, so no need for desk lamps. Lastly, no one wants to stare at a blank wall when thinking about a algebra problem, so the wallpaper accent is just what the teacher ordered!

Cabinet Paint Color- Benjamin Moore Gray Owl.

Wallpaper- Graham and Brown Innocence Gray.

Sconces- Savoy House Morland in Matte Black – similar here & here.

Chandelier

This chandelier by Kichler is located in the upstairs loft area.

Mudroom Drop Zone

Drop Zone Paint Color- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy.

Pike Properties believes that a drop zone can become a focal point and not just a spot to throw shoes, coats, and keys. The same custom cabinet maker that crafted the kitchen cabinets also made this piece. One of the first things you notice is the rich Walnut wood bench and live edge coat hook backing. The coat hook fixture puts a fun twist on a typical row of coat hooks in a drop zone. Cabinet and cubby space is abundant, as you’d expect.

Don’t miss the built-in dog bowls down in the lower corner with custom cut out dog done openings! The comfortable livability of dogs even went into the design and building of this residence.

  Many thanks to the builder (& McKay!

) for sharing all of the details above!

Builder: Pike Properties (Instagram)

Architecture: Frusterio Design, Inc.

Photography: Joe Purvis.

3D walkthrough tour.

  Best Sales of the Month:

Thank you for shopping through Home Bunch. I would be happy to assist you if you have any questions or are looking for something in particular. Feel free to contact me and always make sure to check dimensions before ordering. Happy shopping!

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  Serena & Lily: Amazing Rug Sale!

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  Joss & Main: Up to 70% off “Don’t Think Twice Sale”!

  Pottery Barn: 40% OFF plus free shipping. Use code: FREESHIP.

  One Kings Lane: Outdoor Sale Up to 60% Off.

  West Elm: Up to 40% Off on Sofas, Sectionals & Chairs!

  Anthropologie: New Fall Arrivals!

  Nordstrom: Sale – Incredible Prices!!!

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Florida Beach Cottage.

Beautiful Homes of Instagram: Modern Farmhouse.

2019 New Year Home Tour.

New-Construction Home Ideas.

Tom Brady and Gisele Bundchen’s Home – Full House Tour.

Dark Cedar Shaker Exterior.

Craftsman Beach House.

Lake House Interior Design Ideas.

Neutral Home.

Beautiful Homes of Instagram: Coastal Farmhouse Design.

Before and After Bathroom Renovation.

White Kitchen Renovation.

Kitchen with Blue Island.

Coastal Shingle Home.

Coastal-inspired Home Renovation.

Southern-inspired Modern Farmhouse.

Coastal Farmhouse Home Decor.

Small Lot Modern Farmhouse.

Beautiful Homes of Instagram: British Columbia.

Reinvented Classic Kitchen Design.

Florida Beach House Interior Design.

New England Home.

Beautiful Homes of Instagram: Urban Farmhouse.

Beautiful Homes of Instagram: Fixer Upper.Beach House Interior Design Ideas.

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Modern Farmhouse with Front Porch.

Classic Colonial Home Design.Grey Kitchen Paint Colors.

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See more Inspiring Interior Design Ideas in my Archives.

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Lead me in Light and Love”.

Have a wonderful day, my friends and we’ll talk again tomorrow.”

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[weekegg2-blog]

A ‘freaking fag revolutionary’ remembers the early years of gay liberation in Chicago

When the annual Pride Parade steps off from the intersection of Broadway and Montrose at noon on Sunday, June 30—with Lori Lightfoot, Chicago's first openly gay mayor, serving as honorary grand marshal—it will represent a very different mind-set from the event that launched the pride parade tradition. This year's parade is expected to draw more than a million participants and onlookers to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion of June 28 and 29, 1969. Thus the theme Stonewall 50: Millions of Moments of Pride.

I was a teenaged member of Chicago Gay Liberation, the loose-knit, short-lived group that organized the first pride parade on Saturday, June 27, 1970. Most of our group thought of ourselves, proudly if irreverently, as members of the "freaking fag revolution"—to borrow the phrase used by Thomas Aquinas Foran, the U.S. attorney who had prosecuted the so-called "Chicago Seven" anti-war activists charged with conspiracy and incitement to riot as a result of their protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention.

The first parade wasn't even a parade. It was a march, which meant we were allowed to walk on the sidewalks but not in the streets. There were no floats, no cars, no politicians, no crowds, no corporate sponsors pitching their brands to onlookers. The last thing on our minds was the possibility of any mayor, let alone an openly gay one, leading the way; we were happy the city's then-mayor, "Boss" Richard J. Daley, didn't set his cops on us.

The day began at noon with a rally in Washington Square Park across the street from the Newberry Library—known as "Bughouse Square" because of its storied history as a free-speech forum. From there we walked to the historic Water Tower at the intersection of Michigan and Chicago Avenues. Then, instead of dispersing as we had originally planned, we impulsively headed south on Michigan into the Loop, chanting "Out of the closets and into the streets!" as we wended our way through throngs of Mag Mile shoppers. The march ended with another rally in Civic Center Plaza (now Daley Plaza), where the event culminated in a joyous circle dance around the Picasso statue.

Between 150 and 300 people (depending on which account you read) showed up to celebrate what our flyer promoting the event declared (in all capital letters) was: "THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF GAY PEOPLE TELLING THE WARPED, SICK, MALADJUSTED, PURITAN AMERIKAN SOCIETY THAT THEY HAVE HAD ENOUGH SHIT."

That flyer is on display as part of "Out of the Closets & Into the Streets: Power, Pride & Resistance in Chicago's Gay Liberation Movement," a new exhibit at Gerber/Hart Library and Archives, the midwest's largest LGBTQ library and research center. Conceived by the library's director, Wil Brant, and curated by a team of young volunteers including professional librarians Chase Ollis and James Conley and designer Kurt Conley, the display is drawn from Gerber/Hart's extensive archival collection.

The march marked the first anniversary of a riot in New York City on June 28, 1969, when patrons of the Stonewall Inn, a gay nightclub in Greenwich Village owned by the Genovese crime family, reacted violently to what had begun as a routine police raid. That event, and the events leading up to and following it, are well covered in a new book, The Stonewall Riots: A Documentary History by Marc Stein (NYU Press).

But that first Stonewall anniversary march wasn't the first activity of Chicago Gay Liberation, which started up in fall 1970 after University of Chicago grad student Henry Wiemhoff placed an ad in the Chicago Maroon student newspaper seeking a gay roommate. Not only did he get a roommate—a female taxicab driver named Michal Brody—he got a discussion group. We met in Wiemhoff and Brody's Hyde Park apartment and then, as our numbers grew, began to gather at the Blue Gargoyle, a community center and coffeehouse in the multicultural, nondenominational University Church on the University of Chicago campus.

Talking soon led to action. The first public Gay Lib event I participated in was a protest four months before the Stonewall march, on the snowy afternoon of Wednesday, February 25, 1970, outside the Loop headquarters of the Women's Bar Association of Illinois. The group was hosting a program on "Youthful Offenders" with a Chicago police officer, Sergeant John Manley, as guest speaker. But for us, the offender was Manley himself. The blond, muscular cop was notorious for entrapping gay men in Lincoln Park restrooms; wearing street clothes, he would pretend to solicit guys for sex and then arrest them if they responded to his invitation. Mattachine Midwest, an established "homophile" organization in town, published Manley's picture in its mimeographed monthly newsletter and mockingly suggested Manley himself was a closet case: "If I were gay and I didn't want anybody to know, and I felt very, very guilty, I think I might get a job where I could cruise in the public interest," wrote David Stienecker, the newsletter's editor. On February 7, 1970, Manley made an early morning appearance at Stienecker's third-floor apartment to arrest him for criminal defamation.

"After I unsuccessfully attempted to make a phone call, Manley called for a police van and I was escorted from my apartment in handcuffs," Stienecker now recalls. "Upon arriving at the precinct house, Manley suggested that if I just pleaded guilty the judge would only give me a slap on the wrist." But Stienecker, represented by the diligent and fierce lesbian attorney Renee Hanover, fought the charges. After several court appearances, most of which Manley missed, the case was thrown out of court, but Stienecker lost his job as an editor at World Book Encyclopedia due to the ensuing publicity—there then being no legal protection against employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

Manley later rose to the rank of captain in the police force, but his career crashed and burned in the mid-1990s when he was fired for sexually harassing female officers under his supervision. Some 20 years later, his name popped up in the news again when he was ticketed for, of all things, impersonating a government official after he posed as a U.S. Maritime Service "special agent" to avoid a parking ticket. Stienecker, who went on to a successful career writing educational books for children, is credited as a program supporter of Gerber/Hart's "Out of the Closets" exhibit.

In March 1970, we responded to the release of The Boys in the Band, the film version of the 1968 off-Broadway stage hit. Our aim was not to boycott the movie—which used waspish humor to illustrate the pathological, self-hating behavior of a group of gay New York men—but to use it as a teaching opportunity. We handed out flyers on the street outside the Carnegie Theatre on Rush Street (where Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse is now), which read in part: "The pain and cruelty typified by The Boys in the Band should be understood as the expression of human lives damaged by an environment of condemnation, suspicion, job discrimination, and legal harrassment [sic]."

Gay Liberation also organized dances, which drew large crowds from around the city. Though same-sex dancing wasn't illegal, it was forbidden in the mob-owned gay bars in Boss Daley's Chicago, where periodic police raids were a given. The first two Gay Lib dances were held in the protected environs of the University of Chicago campus. (It inspired other LGBTQ student groups to hold their own dances at the University of Illinois at Chicago Circle—now UIC—and Northwestern University. At the latter, music was provided by the Siegel-Schwall Band, then one of Chicago's hottest blues-rock bands. )

When the U. of C. demanded that CGL move its dances off campus because the crowds were getting too big, we booked the Coliseum, located on South Wabash between 14th and 16th Streets, a huge venue that had hosted several Republican presidential conventions, sports events, rock concerts, and, a few weeks previously, a congress of Black Muslims. As historian Timothy Stewart-Winter, author of Queer Clout: Chicago and the Rise of Gay Politics (University of Pennsylvania Press), recounts in a Slate article titled "Beyond Stonewall: How Gay History Looks Different From Chicago":

"[T]here was a problem: The venue required an insurance policy, and every insurance agent the organizers approached said the risk was too great that the police would raid the dance, cart the attendees off to jail, and levy fines. Only on the day before the dance did the activists find a broker who'd sell them a policy—a black man whose company had insured the Nation of Islam's annual convention at the same venue."

About 2,000 people showed up at the Coliseum to dance for liberation on April 18, 1970. So did the police. But when the cops entered the hall and came face to face with a phalanx of attorneys—including the formidable Renee Hanover—primed to document any civil liberties violations, they shrugged and went away.

The Gerber/Hart exhibit includes copies of the mimeographed newsletters that Gay Lib used to spread its message in those long-ago pre-Internet days. Also on display is a copy of the Chicago Seed, the city's hippie/radical underground paper, which published an eight-page Gay Liberation supplement in one issue. There's also a well-deserved tribute to the late Frank Robinson, who gave Chicago's LGBTQ community the first professional- quality publications we could call our own. Robinson was a closeted middle-aged editor for Playboy magazine; unable to come out for our demonstrations, he devoted himself to behind-the-scenes messaging. After publishing a one time "Gay Pride" paper to promote the 1971 Pride Parade (which by then had been relocated to the Lincoln Park/Lakeview area on the north side), Robinson put out two editions of The Paper, a 1972 tabloid that covered local LGBTQ arts and politics. The Paper ran interviews with local counterculture celebrities such as painter Ed Paschke, lesbian singer-songwriter Linda Shear, female impersonators Roby Landers and Wanda Lust, and stage director Gary Tucker, aka "Eleven," whose gender-bending Godzilla Rainbow Troupe was then running its hit production of Charles Ludlam and Bill Vehr's outrageous Turds in Hell. A copy of The Paper on display at Gerber/Hart shows a photo from another landmark of Chicago's fledgling off-Loop theater movement, the Organic Theater's sci-fi epic Warp!, featuring André De Shields (who just won a Tony for his performance in the Broadway hit Hadestown) as Xander the Unconquerable. In 1973, Robinson had relocated to San Francisco, where he became the speechwriter for a camera store owner and activist with aspirations to a political career—Harvey Milk. But by then the city had its first (more or less) regularly published newspaper, the Chicago Gay Crusader, edited by activist Michael Bergeron with copy editing supervision by his lover Bill Kelley.

The success of the June 1970 Stonewall anniversary march (no one got arrested!) encouraged members of Gay Liberation to start developing a larger agenda. Inevitably, there were conflicts. Some wanted to merge Gay Lib into a broader leftist coalition; others preferred to keep the focus on LGBTQ issues. GL's women's and Black caucuses went off in their own directions; the Black caucus turned into Third World Gay Revolutionaries, led by Ortez Alderson, who went to prison for destroying draft records in downstate Pontiac. And in September 1970, as reported in a CGL newsletter displayed in the Gerber/Hart exhibit, "Tensions that had been brewing for some weeks finally came to a head . . . with the result that the group suffered a schism and a large number of members announced they were forming a new group—not a new caucus—to be called 'The Chicago Gay Alliance.' . . . Though there . . . were moments of acrimony, the parting was amicable. . . . All present expressed a desire to avoid the infighting of competitive groups in other cities"—a reference to the internecine turf wars that tore at the fabric of New York's gay community around the same time.

The debut issue of the CGA newsletter in November 1970 explained: "The Chicago Gay Alliance is actively interested in alleviating the ghetto (whether spiritual or physical) conditions of homosexuals, in dispelling the psychological and sociological mythology that has grown up about the subject of homosexuality, in providing referral services to homosexuals, in helping homosexuals 'coming out' develop a sense of pride in who they are and courage in facing the generally hostile outside world, to provide additional social outlets so that homosexuals can meet each other as human beings, to change repressive laws and end police and political harassment, and to improve communications between the homosexual and the heterosexual communities."

In 1971 CGA gave Chicago its first LGBTQ community center, a ramshackle red-brick two-story rented house on an Old Town side street at 171 W. Elm. By 1973 the center had closed for lack of financial support, and CGA ceased operations. But the activism continued. A July 1973 issue of the Chicago Gay Crusader reported that 20th Ward alderman Cliff Kelley, working with a group called Illinois Gays for Legislative Action, had introduced legislation in the Chicago City Council to prohibit discrimination in jobs, housing, and public accommodations based on sexual orientation. It took 15 years for the City Council to finally vote an LGBTQ-inclusive Chicago Human Rights Ordinance into law on December 21, 1988.

The Old Town community center paved the way for today's gleaming Center on Halsted. The Gay Crusader was succeeded by the weekly newspaper GayLife, founded in 1975 by the late Grant Ford, and then by Windy City Times, cofounded in 1985 by Tracy Baim, now publisher of the Reader, and still publishing in print and online 34 years later. (I served as editor of both GayLife and WCT in the '80s.)

The Gerber/Hart exhibit's narrative arc climaxes with a major event from 1977, chronicled in an issue of GayLife on display. On June 14 of that year, singer, orange-juice industry spokeswoman, and former Miss America Anita Bryant arrived in Chicago for a concert at the historic Medinah Temple at Wabash and Ohio (it's now a Bloomingdale's home furniture store). The concert had been booked before Bryant achieved national notoriety as leader of an anti-LGBTQ initiative in Dade County, Florida. LGBTQ activists, including me, picketed the Bryant concert in Chicago, despite being cautioned by gay establishment leaders that our action would be an embarrassing failure. By then, it was thought, the activist energy of the early 1970s had waned, and the only time queers turned out en masse was for the Pride Parade. But a spontaneous, unexpected turnout of 3,000 to 5,000 (depending on whom you ask) proved the naysayers wrong.

Chicago Gay Liberation, the Chicago Gay Alliance, and the other groups that sprang up in the wake of Stonewall ran out of steam by the end of the decade, but the sense of empowerment they gave the community—and the lessons we learned from their successes and setbacks—guided us into the 1980s, when the AIDS epidemic and the struggle for civil rights at the city, county, and state level drove a new activist spirit. "The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long," notes Gerber/Hart's James Conley. "As transformative as those groups were, they were temporary. But the impact they had in their short span of existence was monumental and lasting."   v

Special thanks to Amber Lewis at Columbia College Chicago

Correction: This article has been revised to reflect that the Siegel-Schwall Band played at a dance held on the campus of Northwestern University, not that of the University of Chicago.

Source: https://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/gerber-hart-gay-pride-history/Content?oid=70924510

[doulacollective]

How to Build Your Village: Toronto Edition

by Kira

I think every parent-to-be and new parent has heard the phrase "it takes a village". And it surely does. We weren't meant to give birth to babies on our own. Historically, family members and communities shared the role of raising children and supporting new families in recovering from birth and transitioning into parenthood.

I've worked with numerous families as they find their footing as new parents. Many times, I’ve been told that the lack of community support came as a surprise. Surprising, yes. But all too common. What happens when our friends are sprawled across huge cities? When you're the first of your friends to have a baby? When your parents live across an ocean? When your partner goes back to work, and you find yourself completely alone with your new baby, in the middle of winter?

As the support from the first month postpartum dwindles, it is all too common to feel overwhelmed by the demands of a new baby and feel quite alone.

It can be hard to build a village, and it's perfectly okay to spend lots of time at home if that's what you need. These suggestions aren’t meant as a list of “shoulds”, but rather options and ideas to connect with other parents and engage in stimulating activities for baby.

Prenatal groups, fitness, classes: Building community during pregnancy is so valuable. Getting to know other pregnant people helps ensure that you know other people with similarly aged babies, and increases your web of people to ask your questions or share your concerns with.

Support groups and therapy: I’m a firm believer that everyone benefits from therapy at all points in their lives. Particularly in the perinatal period, when it is so normal to experience a range of complicated emotions, good and bad. Seeing a therapist or joining a support group is an amazing way to navigate the unfamiliar emotional terrain of early parenting. Not to mention that perinatal mental health professionals happily welcome your baby to appointments.

Fitness classes: There are plenty of Baby & Me Yoga classes (like the PWYC one I teach at Yoga Village!) and fitness classes across the city. There’s an awesome directory that you can check out with listings of places offering pre and postnatal movement, and the City of Toronto offers a number of affordable postnatal classes.

Educational groups and circles: There are all sorts of classes geared towards new parents, such as Wholeplay, with topics such as baby massage, baby sign language and introducing solids. Part education, part opportunity to meet other families in the neighbourhood. My personal favourite is the Toronto Public Library Baby Time, which offers songs and stories geared towards babies 0-18 months.

Drop ins: There are a number of drop ins around the city with various programs, caregiver support and space hang out with baby and be around other babies and parents. The College Montrose Children’s Place is an example of an amazing drop in that I have enjoyed many times.

Online communities: Leaving the house is sometimes impossibly hard and ultimately, not worth the stress. Almost every neighbourhood in the city has some sort of parent or buy and sell groups these days, and some, like Postpartum Support Toronto, are geared towards parents supporting each other emotionally. There are also tons of great Instagram accounts like Take Back Postpartum, Postpartum Progress and 4th Trimester Bodies focused around new parenthood and postpartum.

We can’t place all of the responsibility on new parents to build their villages. How can we expect someone who’s sleep deprived, overwhelmed and juggling all of the demands of parenthood to reach out and initiate every form of contact to the outer world? If you have a friend or family member who recently had a baby (whether you have one or not), give them a call and check in. See what they need. Weekday afternoons can make great times to visit new parents whose partner (if they have one) have gone back to work, and it’s the end of a long day at home with baby. Ask if you can hold baby while they shower. If they need help preparing a meal. It takes a village and ultimately, it’s everyone’s responsibility to build that village.

[convergenceproperties1]

How to Sell My House Fast in Grand Junction in Any Market

Selling your home can be a daunting task, especially in a fluctuating market like Grand Junction. However, with the right strategies and insights, you can sell your house quickly and efficiently, regardless of the market conditions. At Convergence Properties Inc., we understand the challenges homeowners face, and we’re here to provide practical advice to help you achieve a fast sale. Let’s explore the key benefits and strategies for selling your home swiftly in any market.

Understanding the Local Market

Before diving into the sell my house fast Grand Junction process, it's crucial to understand the Grand Junction real estate market. This area has its own unique characteristics, influenced by factors such as location, economic conditions, and seasonal trends.

Benefits of Local Market Knowledge

Pricing Strategies: Knowing the average home prices helps you set a competitive listing price.

Targeted Marketing: Understanding buyer demographics allows you to tailor your marketing efforts effectively.

Timing the Sale: Awareness of peak selling seasons can help you decide the best time to list your home.

Preparing Your Home for Sale

First impressions matter when sell my house fast Grand Junction. Preparing your home to make it as appealing as possible is one of the most effective ways to attract buyers quickly.

Benefits of Home Preparation

Increased Value: A well-prepared home can command a higher price.

Faster Offers: Homes that are clean, decluttered, and staged tend to sell faster.

Fewer Negotiations: A move-in-ready home reduces the need for extensive negotiations and repairs.

Tips for Preparing Your Home

Clean and Declutter: Remove personal items and excess furniture to make spaces look larger.

Make Necessary Repairs: Fix any obvious issues, such as leaky faucets or cracked tiles, to instill buyer confidence.

Enhance Curb Appeal: Improve landscaping, paint the front door, and ensure your home is welcoming from the outside.

Strategic Pricing

Pricing your home accurately is crucial. A home that is priced too high may sit on the market for an extended period, while one priced too low can lead to financial loss.

Benefits of Strategic Pricing

Attract More Buyers: Competitive pricing attracts a larger pool of potential buyers.

Shorter Time on Market: Properly priced homes tend to sell faster, reducing carrying costs.

Better Offers: A fair price encourages multiple offers, potentially leading to a bidding war.

How to Determine the Right Price

Comparative Market Analysis (CMA): Use data from similar homes in your neighborhood to establish a competitive price.

Consult a Real Estate Professional: Professionals like those at Convergence Properties Inc. can provide valuable insights and market data.

Effective Marketing Strategies

Once your home is ready and priced right, it's time to implement an effective marketing strategy.

Benefits of Strong Marketing

Increased Visibility: More potential buyers will see your listing.

Faster Offers: A robust marketing plan can shorten the time it takes to receive offers.

Enhanced Interest: Creative marketing can showcase your home's best features, sparking buyer interest.

Marketing Strategies to Consider

Online Listings: Utilize platforms like Zillow, Realtor, and social media to reach a broad audience.

Professional Photography: High-quality images can significantly enhance your online listing and attract buyers.

Open Houses: Hosting an open house allows buyers to experience your home in person, increasing the likelihood of offers.

Work with a Real Estate Agent

Navigating the complexities of selling a home can be overwhelming. Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate agent can simplify the process.

Benefits of Working with a Real Estate Agent

Expert Guidance: Agents provide valuable insights and support throughout the selling process.

Negotiation Skills: Experienced agents are skilled negotiators, often securing better offers.

Market Access: Agents have access to MLS listings and extensive marketing networks, giving your home more exposure.

Flexible Showing Options

In today’s fast-paced environment, flexibility in showing your home can significantly impact your selling success.

Benefits of Flexible Showings

More Potential Buyers: Accommodating various schedules allows more buyers to see your home.

Quicker Sales: Increased access leads to more showings, which can translate to quicker offers.

Positive Buyer Experience: A flexible showing schedule makes the process smoother for buyers, leaving a good impression.

Tips for Implementing Flexible Showings

Use Technology: Consider virtual tours for buyers unable to visit in person.

Be Available: Keep your home ready for showings at various times, including evenings and weekends.

Communicate with Your Agent: Keep your agent informed about your availability to coordinate showings effectively.

Consider Cash Offers

In certain circumstances, selling to an investor or for cash can expedite the process.

Benefits of Cash Offers

Quick Transactions: Cash transactions typically close faster than traditional sales.

Less Hassle: Cash buyers are often looking for properties "as-is," which can save you time and effort on repairs and staging.

Reduced Risk: There is less risk of the sale falling through since cash buyers don’t need financing.

Finding Cash Buyers

Real Estate Investors: Reach out to local real estate investors who may be looking for properties to flip or rent.

Wholesalers: Work with real estate wholesalers who specialize in finding cash buyers for properties.

Conclusion

Selling your house fast in Grand Junction, regardless of market conditions, is achievable with the right approach. By understanding the local market, preparing your home, setting the right price, employing effective marketing strategies, and potentially collaborating with real estate professionals, you can navigate the selling process smoothly.

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