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Do-it-yourself insulation, mildew repair

By Bill and Kevin Burnett, Tuesday, July 8, 2008.

Q: I have a stucco house built in 1959, and there is no sheathing under the stucco, only 15-pound felt over wire laced between the studs. The stucco is in great condition, but the house, built as a summer cottage, has no insulation. Not only is it cold in the winter, but mildew forms on the walls behind anything near the wall, including furniture and artwork. My questions are:

1. Can we get away with just blowing in insulation, or do we have to install a vapor barrier on the exterior to prevent the moisture from condensing on the interior walls?  more...

Reverse mortgages at risk in Washington state

By Tom Kelly, Tuesday, July 8, 2008.

Well-intentioned consumer groups have done an admirable job of curbing the abuses of mortgage lenders, but recent legislation passed in Washington state will inadvertently curtail the number of lenders able to offer reverse mortgages. Lenders in other states are watching with interest.

In a nutshell, Washington state consumers pushed their representatives to increase lender licensing requirements and scrutinize all negative-amortization loans. Negative amortization occurs when the monthly loan payment is less than the principal and interest needed to pay off the loan in a specific period of time. The difference is added to the loan amount, so that the borrower owes more than the amount initially borrowed.  more...

Dialing the Rotary Lady Premium Content

By Kris Berg, Tuesday, July 8, 2008.

I think I am going to join my local Rotary Club. I made the mistake of suggesting as much to my youngest daughter recently, who dutifully returned from an event bearing the business card of the Rotary Lady. "She's expecting your call," she said. Oops. What have I gone and done now?

This sudden interest in becoming a Rotarian came to me through their sponsorship of my daughters' high school Interact Club. I have been touched and impressed by the role the Rotary has played in instilling a sense of community and global involvement among young people. And, I might get to wear a funny hat. Wait -- I think that's the Shriners. Whatever. I also am realizing that I need to get out more.  more...