Taking time to save for what’s important

Members Sean and Amy B. are intentionally saving for what’s important in their life. Keeping track of exactly where their money goes is important to the couple’s budgeting success and their ability to save up for their goals.

Sean and Amy first became interested in Canopy after driving by a billboard. They were in the middle of a frustrating experience with their previous financial institution and were intrigued by Canopy’s advertisement for its Kasasa Checking accounts.

With the Canopy branch on Francis Ave. in the vicinity of their northside home, they decided to check it out. Both of them appreciate the welcoming atmosphere at the branch.

“Every time I come in to the branch, I get a warm, friendly feeling. And, it isn’t just the coffee. The atmosphere just feels warm and welcome, ” Sean said.

At the end of their first month being members, Sean and Amy were pleasantly surprised with the dividends they earned and decided to save those extra funds for one of their goals.

Sean and Amy’s savings strategy? “A dime here and a nickel there, ” Amy said.

Using the envelope savings method, Sean and Amy set aside a chunk of change at the beginning of the month for each of their spending categories. If they end up spending less than the allotted amount, they take the extra cash and put it towards remodeling their home.

Five years ago, they found the perfect home in north Spokane in a “neat neighborhood”. They love that their neighbors are from a mix of generations.

“Mostly everybody knows each other, ” Sean said.

Now that they have their home, they are building up their savings for home improvement projects.

“Our home is over a hundred years old with floors and an unfinished attic that need some love. That means we need to take time to save up, ” Amy said.

When the couple isn’t saving up for their next goals, they keep busy with a variety of passions. Both write fiction and are creating stories for a book series and a podcast.

Sean and Amy’s focus on saving and intentional budgeting allows them to enjoy the things that matter to them.

Canopy Credit Union

What is Your Money Personality?

Understanding why we do what we do, what motivates and drives us, or frightens and repels us can help us live more successful lives. Understanding your “Money Personality” can help you reach your financial goals more easily and with fewer impediments.

Here are some of the traits that make up your “Money Personality”. Read on and see where you think you fit.

Money Worship

Does money solve your problems and always make life better? You may be a money worshipper. While having enough money can make life easier, expecting it to solve every problem can create brand new problems like overspending or racking up credit card debt.

So, what can you do if you think money worship is too big an influence for you? Talk with a Canopy Financial Coach about creating a budget and a strategy for paying off excessive credit card debts.

Money Avoidance

Is money the root of all evil? Do you feel like you just don’t deserve more? Money Avoiders may ignore their finances, avoid thinking about money, and even give money away money in order not to be burdened by it.

If money avoidance is causing problems in your life, talk to Canopy Member Advocate about setting up automatic transfers and payments for retirement plan contributions, savings, loan payments, and more. You won’t have to think about your money as much and you’ll avoid getting behind on payments or running short on cash.

Money Vigilance

A penny saved is a penny earned, right? But some who are too vigilant can be secretive about their money and uncomfortable discussing finances with others. That can be a problem.

If you’re uncomfortable talking to family or friends but still have money questions, reach out to one of our financial coaches for advice. It’s confidential, valuable, and it’s free.

Money Status

Do you believe self-worth equals net worth? Do you think people with money are intrinsically superior or more worthy of high status. While that may motivate you to become more successful and earn more, it might also tempt you to make risky financial decisions or buy expensive, high-status items.

If you’re worried concerns about your money status may be leading you to make unwise decisions, make a rule that you’ll always take a few days to consider something before you pull the trigger and create and stick to a budget to avoid overspending.

Interested in knowing more about your “money personality”? Click the link below.

Canopy Credit Union

Commercial Real Estate Leasing Guide

A commercial lease agreement allows a business to rent a commercial property from a landlord and is significantly different from residential leases. Having a guide to negotiating commercial leases and how to negotiate leasing office space is invaluable as there are many costly mistakes that can be made, as well as missed opportunities with lease agreement terms. 

Read below and discover how to navigate a commercial lease and secure the right property for your business.

Define the Commercial Space You Want to Lease

Before looking for commercial real estate, you need to define the parameters of the building or space you want and need. Having a list of qualities such as budget, office space size, must-have amenities, accessibility, and security can help limit your search for commercial real estate to lease. 

Accessibility, for example, is important to consider, whether customers will be coming to the property or not, as it’s important that your employees can get there as well. Consider the foot traffic, what kind of neighboring businesses are around, parking space, and proximity to public transportation. 

How is the Commercial Real Estate Zoned?

Commercial zoning is important to consider as different buildings fall within different uses. For example, a warehouse and office space are both considered commercial property but will be zoned for different types of businesses. The type of zoning dictates what type of business can make use of the commercial space and is typically local jurisdiction.

When choosing where to look for commercial spaces, check with your local chamber of commerce or zoning regulations based on ZIP code. This will help you narrow your search even further so you can focus on which commercial lease to look into. 

Types of Commercial Leases

Once you’ve narrowed down what a commercial building must have, your budget, and where zoning permits you to do business, you can look at the commercial leases offered by the different properties. It’s important to consider what type of commercial lease is appropriate for your business needs as well as the details of each lease. There are three primary types of commercial real estate leases:
 

Full-Service Lease

This is the most common type of commercial lease and usually with office space. Essentially, the landlord is responsible for the expenses of the property like taxes, insurance, maintenance, janitorial services, and utilities. There are no hidden costs and enables businesses to accurately budget for their monthly and annual lease payments.
 

Net Lease

A net lease agreement is typically cheaper in annual rent, but can also include monthly “usual costs, ” such as property insurance, taxes, and common area maintenance items. These leases can be single, double, or triple net:

  • Single: the tenant pays rent plus a pro-rata share of the building’s property taxes
  • Double net: the tenant pays a portion of the property insurance on top of rent and property taxes
  • Triple net: the tenant pays the pro-rata share of property taxes, property insurance, and common area maintenance items. These are more common with restaurant and retail commercial spaces. 
     

Modified Gross Lease

This type of lease is a mix of full-service and the net lease. For example, a commercial tenant might pay for their portion of the property taxes, insurance, and common area maintenance items, but in a lump sum along with the rent. The benefit here is that the rent is fixed without any hidden costs or sudden expenses. The utilities and janitorial services are covered by the landlord and if the taxes, insurance, or common area maintenance items increases the rent still stays the same. 

Find a Broker to Facilitate the Commercial Lease

Commercial real estate leasing can be intricate and costly when mistakes are made or to get out of, if you’re able to at all. It’s important to have a commercial real estate agent or a tenant broker to help guide you through the process and go over the leases for the building or office space with you. Here at Goodale & Barbieri, we provide tenant representation to help our clients secure the right commercial space for their business. As one of the largest developers, property managers, and a leading real estate firm, we understand what to look for with tenants and the nuances of negotiating a lease, as well as the market. Since 1937 we’ve handled properties of all sorts and currently have over 4 million square feet of commercial property. Discover more about working with experienced experts by following the link below.

Goodale & Barbieri

Things to Do in Sioux City, Iowa

Sioux City IA is a great place to visit. You should know a few things before you come. The city has a lot of drugs and gangs. So,it’s not safe for kids and adults.

One of the best attractions to see is the Chief War Eagle Monument. It is a great place to stroll around at night and enjoy the stunning views of Sioux River merging into Missouri River.

1. Sioux City Public Museum

The Sioux City Public Museum has a wide range of exhibits that cover history,culture,and science. The museum is open to the public and free. It’s a good option for families of any age. The museum often hosts special events like lectures and tours for adults,or cultural and historical summer day camps for kids.

Guests can explore a wide range of large,colorful exhibitions and historic structures,including Native American artifacts,pioneer items,and historic transportation vehicles. The “corn palace” theater,with its ornate decor,offers a 12-minute orientation movie. Guests can also dig in a replica of a fossil dig or watch an orientation film.

In the main room and corridor,traveling and temporary exhibitions are added to the permanent collection. Past themes include a tribute to the Beatles,an exploration of Brazilian culture,quilts,and WWII photography.

2. Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center

Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center is located within scenic Stone State Park in the Loess Hills of northwest Iowa. The nature center has indoor and outdoor classrooms,exhibits and offices,as well as displays on Loess Hills geology and natural history,woodland and prairie demonstration gardens and live Birds of Prey. It also features miles of hiking trails,a Discovery Forest nature playscape,and indoor and outdoor exhibit space.

The nature center is home to Woodbury County Conservation Board headquarters and offers education programs geared for all ages. The nature center’s roots run deep in the community. For example,Woodbury County Conservation Foundation (WCCF) founding member and volunteer Dianne Blankenship served on the initial capital campaign cabinet to help raise funds for the facility in the early 1990s. She continues to promote her passion for native wildflower and prairie restoration on the WCCF Board of Directors.

3. Mid American Museum of Aviation and Transportation

Whether your interests lie in general aviation,warbirds,or helicopters,the Mid American Museum of Aviation and Transportation has something to offer. The museum also offers group discounts and a Hall of Aviation Science that allows visitors to interact with the exhibits.

Sioux City has an impressive array of attractions for visitors to discover. The city is home to Saturday in Park,USHL Hockey and AFA Baseball,a Hard Rock Hotel and casino,an award-winning Art Center and Public Museum and the interactive LaunchPAD Children’s Museum. It also hosts serene parks and a variety of cultural events.

This chart illustrates the number of owner-occupied housing units by property tax bucket in Sioux City,IA compared to its parent and neighbor geographies. The most popular bucket is $100,000 to $149,999. The number of owners is above the national average (63.6%).

4. Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center features a replica of the Corps of Discovery keelboat,rotating exhibits,a research library,and artifacts. This site offers both educational and entertaining programs for adults and students.

There is also a garden where visitors can see plants species encountered by the expedition,and a subtle stone amphitheater,along with a variety of life-size bronze animal sculptures,like a bear,cougar,and Lewis’ newfie dog Seaman. The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is located off I-29 exit 149 (Hamilton Blvd. ),then s. to 900 Larsen Park Road.

Sergeant Charles Floyd,who died in Sioux City on August 20,1804,was part of the Corps of Discovery Expedition. Lewis and Clark’s legacy is still visible in the form of parks,monuments,and schools named after them. Street names like Lewis Boulevard,York Street and Floyd Boulevard also honor their memory.

5. Orpheum Theatre

Orpheum Theatre was built in 1926. It is an opulent,grand vaudeville house and moving pictures. The West Coast theater architect Benjamin Marcus Priteca designed it and it is considered one of his greatest works. The opulent design includes a Wurlitzer Pipe Organ,half circle boxes and hand carved detailing.

The Ultimate Guide to Navigating Chula Vista Bail Bonds

No one anticipates needing a bail bond,but the reality is that thousands of people are arrested every day,and many of them are unable to post bail on their own. Understanding how bail bonds work can significantly ease the stress of this unexpected situation. This guide aims to help you navigate the process of securing in Chula Vista,CA Bail Bonds.

What Are Bail Bonds?

A bail bond,also known as a surety bond,is a legal contract between a defendant,a bail bondsman,and the court. It allows the defendant to be released from jail until their court date on the condition they will appear for all court proceedings. The bail bond company charges a premium,typically 10% of the bail amount,as their fee.

Benefits of Using Bail Bonds Services

Using a bail bond service has several benefits. Primarily,it saves you from needing to come up with the full bail amount,which can be quite high. The service also handles all the paperwork and ensures a quick and efficient release process.

Furthermore,a professional bail bondsman is experienced in the legal system and can provide valuable insights and advice. They can also help ensure you meet all court requirements,helping avoid additional legal complications.

Choosing the Right Bail Bond Company

Choosing the right bail bond company is crucial. Consider factors such as experience,reputation,service fees,and availability when making your selection. Look for companies that are transparent about their fees,offer flexible payment plans,and are available 24/7.

Also,ensure that the bail bond company is licensed to operate in Chula Vista. They should have a strong understanding of the local laws and courts. Reading reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of their professionalism and reliability.

Local Chula Vista Bail Bond Agencies

  1. Chula Vista Bail Bonds: Known for their fast,reliable service,they have been serving the Chula Vista community for over 20 years.
  2. Bail Bonds Chula Vista CA: Offers 24/7 bail bond services and flexible payment plans,with a commitment to customer service.
  3. Speedy Bail Bonds: Specializes in large bail bonds and offers a swift,confidential service.

Final Thoughts

Understanding bail bonds can be a daunting task,especially when dealing with the stress of an arrest. This guide is a comprehensive resource for navigating bail bonds in Chula Vista,providing a foundation of knowledge that can help you make informed decisions in a challenging situation.

If you or a loved one need a bail bond in Chula Vista,don’t hesitate to contact a local bail bond agency. These professionals will guide you through the process,ensuring a quick and smooth release from jail.

Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide general information about bail bonds in Chula Vista and should not be used as legal advice. For specific legal concerns,please consult a legal professional.

Water Excavation: A Safe and Precise Excavation Solution

Hydro excavation is undisputed champion of precision and safety when it comes to digging. This new method blends high – pressure water with high strength vacuum systems to create an efficient and non-destructive excavation technique. Hydro excavation transformed the construction and excavation business from utility line installations to potholes.

The Process

Hydro excavation involves two major components: The system features a powerful vacuum system as well as a high – pressure water system. A specialist hydro excavation truck uses a concentrated stream of pressurized water to penetrate the ground,loosening the soil & creating a slurry. The vacuum system simultaneously extracts the slurry quickly and efficiently,leaving behind a precisely excavated hole,according to experts in hydro excavation.

Precision & Safety

Hydro excavation offers unparalleled precision and Safety,Unlike traditional methods of digging. The method allows for accurate digging,while minimizing the risk of damage to underground structures and utilities,through controlled water pressure. This tends to make it particularly ideal for places where disturbance is likely to be minimal,such as around electrical wires,fiber optic cables or even gas lines.

Non-destructive and Green

One of the primary benefits of hydro excavation is its non – destructive characteristics. Hydro excavation minimizes disturbance to the surrounding soil and vegetation,unlike mechanical digging techniques. Not merely does this reduce the chance of leaks or ruptures,but the precise control of the water pressure is essential. The environmental impact is considerably reduced when utilizing water instead of heavy machinery,which makes hydro excavation an eco-friendly choice.

Use

Hydro excavation has a number of applications in a number of industries. It’s commonly used for utility trenching and marking as well as daylighting or potholing to determine existing underground infrastructure. This method may,which you can learn about vac-con hydrovac excavation,also be used for the installation of underground utilities as water and sewer lines. Hydro excavation may also be used for the removal of hazardous materials,such as contaminated soil or underground storage tanks.

Benefits

The benefits of hydro excavation are numerous. Firstly,it greatly reduces the danger of damage to underground structures,preventing costly repairs and service disruptions. Hydro excavation is a non – destructive procedure that reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. Compared to traditional techniques,hydro excavation saves both time and money,thus enhancing the project schedules and budgets.

Conclusion

Hydro excavation is a game changer in the world of construction and excavation. Its combination of safety,accuracy,and environmental friendliness causes it to be the perfect choice for a wide range of uses. Hydro excavation is a efficient and non-destructive alternative to conventional digging techniques,by combining water and vacuum power. By adopting hydro excavation,we are accepting a more secure,more exact and more sustainable future in excavation practices.

-