Anne Ortiz's (anneortiz) Blog

Believe it or not, winter is fire season.  Cooking, candles, overburdened electrical outlets and  people trying to stay warm with fires and space heaters all raise the risk of fire.  A few precautions, however, can keep homeowners safer.  Here are some tips: When using a fireplace, open the dampe...

A great opportunity for animal lovers will happen on Saturday, February 12th in Marietta, Georgia.  "Puttin' On The Ritz" is a black tie optional gala, variety show and fundraiser on at the Earl Smith Strand Theatre. Proceeds will support the Humane Society of Cobb County (HSCC). The party starts...

The Walker School in Marietta, Georgia is proud to host a fund raising event featuring none other than Alton Brown, host of Food Network's "Good Eats." On Saturday Feb. 12th, Walker will feature "An Afternoon with Alton Brown" at 12:30 p.m. in the Coca-Cola auditorium. All proceeds will benefit t...

Recent reports indicate that housing prices remain depressed and more foreclosures are coming on the market.  However, there is a bright spot in the economic picture.  The economic recovery is now consistently picking up speed, and American consumers are the ones pushing the gas pedal. They incre...

If you are a homeowner or thinking of becoming one, there are many items that must be examined to be sure that a home is in good condition.  Moisture intrusion is a problem that can lead to, among other things, mold growth and structural deterioration. Examine both the interior and exterior of th...

The Marietta History Museum is delighted to debut a new exhibit that will open on January 28th, 2011. Titled "Exploration of Southern Food Ways," the exhibit will bring the sights, smells, and experiences of authentic southern cuisine into the Museum. Running for a whole year, the exhibit will fo...

Kennesaw, Georgia has found an economical and environmentally friendly way to help dispose of old books, CDs and DVDs.  These items can be expensive, and you are probably tired of some of the ones you have. Now is the time to trade it for something else at The Kennesaw Book, CD, and DVD Swap. Sim...

Well into the winter as we are now, we hope that our furnaces are in good condition and will remain so for the duration.  Both old and new forced air systems need some basic maintenance to help keep them running smoothly and efficiently.  Here are a few tips:  - Set the thermostat at a reasonable...

Since its amazing renovation and revitalization two years ago, The Earl Strand Theatre on Marietta Square has hosted some of the finest talent in the Atlanta area.  From theatrical productions to musical and comedy performances, The Strand has become the place to go for high quality entertainment...

In recent months, many of us have seen our share of storms.  The more serious ones have left thousands of homeowners with a mountain of repairs.  If you are one of those, be aware that scams do occur in the contracting business.  Homebuilding has slowed, and less than ethical workers have entered...