Deadly Tornado Rips Through North Carolina Community Killing 3 and Injuring At Least 10

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Last night, a powerful storm ripped through a North Carolina community, spinning up at least 1 tornado that left several dead and even more injured.

According to a statement from Brunswick County Emergency Services, “there are three confirmed fatalities and 10 confirmed injuries. It is estimated that at least 50 homes were affected in the incident and several power lines were damaged, causing power outages…”

Here are some images of the damage the storm caused:

 

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Last night’s powerful storm was part of a much larger weather system that’s brought deadly cold temperatures to most of the central US and has caused sweeping power outages in Texas.

What Homeowners Should Know About Home Warranties

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Homeowners review better ways to protect their home and save money on annual requirements. Maintenance services are necessary for several systems in the home and provide insight when the systems are failing. Whenever a system fails, the property owner faces the cost of repairs or complete replacement services.

A home warranty is an option for protecting the property and preventing homeowners from making too much for the repairs and replacement services. Each of the home warranties provides coverage for appliances or vital systems in the home. Homeowners can review the plans and find an option that is best for their home that controls costs.

Coverage for All Major Appliances

A home warranty provides coverage for all major appliances, and homeowners can get help with the cost of repairs and replacement services. The home warranties protect a variety of appliances in the home including dishwashers, washers, dryers, freezers, and refrigerators.

They also provide coverage for stoves, ranges, and exterior kitchen appliances. The homeowner can review all the major appliances in their home and review plans to find the right protection for their items. Property owners find that 2-10.com has more information about these home warranties and coverage options.

Help with Smoke and Carbon Dioxide Detectors

Vital installations such as smoke and carbon dioxide detectors must be serviced and tested each year. If they are faulty, they must be repaired or replaced quickly. They are necessary for detecting a fire or the presence of gas in the air.

A home warranty provides discounts and maintenance options for these devices. The home warranty company can connect the homeowner with high-quality products if their detectors must be replaced. They can also connect with certified service providers who can repair the detectors when an issue arises.

Coverage for a Swimming Pool or Spa

When getting a home warranty, property owners have the opportunity to add their swimming pool or spa to the coverage. These additional installations present costly repairs and maintenance requirements, and the property owner will face higher than average costs if the installations become damaged and require a replacement.

By setting up the home warranty, the property owner gets incredible discounts on the services for their swimming pools and spas. The warranty helps them save money on these expenses and prevents the property owner from facing high costs on their own.

Pre-Season Maintenance for HVAC Systems

HVAC systems are protected by home warranties, and the warranties do not impose restrictions on the age of the heating or cooling system. It doesn’t matter if the system is 15 years old, the home warranty will still cover the costs of repairs and replacement services.

Property owners can get pre-season maintenance services for the heating and cooling systems. This includes seasonal cleaning, inspections, and servicing of the components. The warranties provide access to high-quality service providers that understand when the systems must be replaced and how to repair components when necessary.

Pest Control Services as an Add-On Service

Some home warranties provide assistance for the cost of pest control. As homeowners know a pest infestation presents the risk of property damage and health risks that could harm the homeowner and their family.

Pests often create nests or dens when reproducing, and they damage walls and floors to do it. Some pests such as rodents could bite the homeowner or their family and place them at risk of disease transmission. By getting a home warranty, the property owner has access to discounted pest control services that make it more affordable to treat their home and eliminate common pests.

Lost Food Because of Refrigerator or Freezer Problems

The warranties provide additional options for homeowners who have their refrigerators or freezers added to their contract. The coverage applies to any issues that arise with the appliances and gives the property owner access to repairs and replacement services. They will not have to pay the full price of these appliance services.

In addition to discounts, the property owner could get complete coverage for any food they lose because of the refrigerator or freezer problem. However, the warranty doesn’t include coverage for power outages that caused the food to ruin.

Re-Keying Services After a Break-In

After a break-in, the property owner will need to change out their locks especially if they were damaged or compromised. The home warranty covers re-keying services for all entry doors and the garage. They provide coverage for services related to electronic doors and locks, too.

By adding the services to their warranty, the property owner can get fast help with these requirements. They will file a claim through the home warranty company via phone or online, and a service provider will contact them promptly. The home warranty company provides an estimate for the remaining balance after the warrant coverage is applied to the cost of the services.

Septic Tank Pumping Services

Septic tanks are a vital part of some plumbing systems, and the property owner will need to review vital steps for maintaining the systems. For example, the property owner will need to have the septic tank pumped out at least once a year to prevent damage. This may include drain cleaning and flushing out the sewage lines.

The installations could become cracked if they are not maintained properly. This could lead to sewage backing up into the property or leaking around the property’s exterior nearby the septic tank installation. Proper maintenance prevents these environmental disasters and keeps the property owner safer.

Homeowners need better protection for their household installations, and a home warranty may provide the best option for them. It provides coverage for specific installations in the home, and the homeowner gets discounted rates by using the warranty.

They have access to higher quality repair services that have been screened by the warranty company, and the homeowner won’t have to worry about an inferior installation. Property owners can also add vital maintenance services to their plan, and they will avoid common issues with systems such as their HVAC installations. A home warranty is a great choice for all homeowners and gives them 13-months of complete protection.

NC Republicans Call Emergency Session To Censure Sen. Burr After He Voted To Convict Trump

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Several North Carolina Republicans are now attempting to censure Senator Richard Burr after he voted to convict the former president in this past weekend’s senate vote.

On Saturday, the Senate voted 57-43 in favor of the impeachment article of incitement of insurrection, falling just 10 votes short of the 67 votes (2/3rds majority) necessary for full conviction.

Senator Burr was one of the 7 Republican Senators who voted to convict the former President, along with both Independent Senators and all 48 Democratic Senators.

In a statement, Senator Burr said:

“When this process started, I believed that it was unconstitutional to impeach a president who was no longer in office. I still believe that to be the case. However, the Senate is an institution based on precedent, and given that the majority in the Senate voted to proceed with this trial, the question of constitutionality is now established precedent. As an impartial juror, my role is now to determine whether House managers have sufficiently made the case for the article of impeachment against President Trump.

I have listened to the arguments presented by both sides and considered the facts. The facts are clear.

The President promoted unfounded conspiracy theories to cast doubt on the integrity of a free and fair election because he did not like the results. As Congress met to certify the election results, the President directed his supporters to go to the Capitol to disrupt the lawful proceedings required by the Constitution. When the crowd became violent, the President used his office to first inflame the situation instead of immediately calling for an end to the assault.

As I said on January 6th, the President bears responsibility for these tragic events. The evidence is compelling that President Trump is guilty of inciting an insurrection against a coequal branch of government and that the charge rises to the level of high Crimes and Misdemeanors. Therefore, I have voted to convict.

I do not make this decision lightly, but I believe it is necessary. 

By what he did and by what he did not do, President Trump violated his oath of office to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.”

The North Carolina GOP will now meet in an emergency session this evening at 8pm to vote on a resolution to censure Senator Burr.

NC GOP Chairman Michael Whatley said that Burr’s vote to convict “in a trial that he declared unconstitutional is shocking and disappointing.”

What do you think about Senator Burr’s vote?

Do you think he should be censured for it?

Gift Ideas From South Carolina She Will Love

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If another year has come and you are once again faced with the challenge of finding the special lady in your life the perfect gift, you are not alone. It can be tough to come up with creative, thoughtful gifts each year that your significant other will love. Don’t worry, this year we got your back! Whether you are shopping for your mother, sister, daughter, or girlfriend, here are some South Carolina-themed gift ideas that will keep your southern belle smiling. 

  1. South Carolina-Themed Jewelry

Jewelry is often the way to a woman’s heart. Now you can get creative and incorporate splashes of South Carolina into your gift with wholesale jewelry. This way, you can buy as many South Carolina charms as you want, for a lower price. 

Maybe you want to buy a crescent moon charm, one of South Carolina’s most popular symbols, to add to a necklace. Or maybe you are looking for an elegant jewelry piece that includes the state color, indigo blue. 

Necklaces or bracelets with charms that symbolize the south can be a unique way to show your love you care. Not only is this idea personalized, your loved one will never get bored with her jewelry, with so many jewelry pieces to choose from.

  1. Coastal Scented Soap and Body Products

One thing South Carolina is widely known for are its beautiful beaches. Spending a day in the sun breathing in that fresh air never gets old, even for a local. Imagine if you could bring those fabulous scents back home with you? 

The Charleston Soap Chef, a locally-owned business can give you just that. Here, you can find body lotions, hand soaps, body scrubs, gift sets and more, all of which capture that true southern scent. 

Choose from a variety of scents, including Southern Magnolia, Charleston Sweetgrass, and more. This is also a great option if you want to support a locally-owned business. 

  1. “Homesick” Candle

Similar to the idea of the soap and body products with familiar smells, you can also purchase candles that will smell exactly like the scent of your state. Haven’t heard of it? “Homesick” is a company that produces natural soy candles that are fragranced with the specific aromas of whatever state you call home. 

Whether you want to purchase a candle based on your state of South or North Carolina or even a specific city, this is a creative gift for someone who really may be missing their hometown. 

  1. Southern-Themed Cookbook

During a global pandemic, it can be hard to go out and try something new. With this gift idea, leaving your home won’t be necessary. If your loved one enjoys cooking, a southern-themed cookbook may be the perfect gift. 

Get creative in the kitchen and prepare your favorite southern meal together. Having a gift that allows you to spend time with your loved one is always a bonus. Have fun knowing you prepared a delicious meal that originates from your local roots!

Putting thought into your gift idea is really what matters most. All of these gift ideas capture and incorporate a glimpse of South Carolina. As long as your heart is in it, your gift recipient will surely appreciate it.  

Gastonia Man Arrested For Threatening To Kill President Biden

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A Gastonia man was arrested this past week for making numerous threats to kill the President of The United States.

According to the Western District of North Carolina U.S. Attorney’s Office, 27-year-old David Kyle Reeves called the White House numerous times between January 28th and February 1st.

Several of the threats he made during the calls included:

  •  “I’m going to come kill the president, I’m going to kill the Secret Service because I own this whole planet.”
  • “Come pick me up and take me to the White House so I can punch the President in the face, sit in his chair, and stay there until he dies.”
  • “No punishment will stop me and it is not against the law to threaten people.”

Reeves now faces up to 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for making the threats.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte’s Assistant U.S. Attorney William Bozin is currently prosecuting the case.

Reeves is now the second North Carolina man to be arrested for threats to kill Joe Biden after Alexander Treisman was arrested in his heavily armed van after making threats online.

Dine with WIFI in Charlotte: quenching your hunger while doing the things you love online

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With around 59% of people actively using the internet around the world, the hospitality industry has been quick to adapt and cater to the modern consumer. WIFI connectivity is now offered in cafes and restaurants alike for their customers to use while they dine with them. With that, it means that those looking to escape their usual day-to-day scenery can do so without having to change their daily tasks, whether it’s for business or pleasure. So, if you’re self-employed and are looking for a new place to work, or want to find a place to eat or drink without sacrificing access to your social tasks, we’ll help you find the best hotspots in Charlotte.

Julia’s Café and Books

Source: Pexels

As the name suggests, this café is made for those who enjoy a good read with their cup of coffee. Set in a tranquil environment, this space is perfect for workers who need to escape their busy office environment. Plus, since they sell used books, there’s the option to take a break away from your screen and cast your eyes over the well thought out words that lie on the vintage book pages before you.

Smelly Cat Café

Believe it or not – the café isn’t smelly, as the name suggests! This name was uniquely invented to create a hip vibe and has since attracted coffee lovers around the area. With WIFI available, this café is perhaps ideal for those who are looking to continue with their hobbies while sipping a cup of specially crafted coffee.

Whereas Julia’s Café and Books is ideal for workers, Smelly Cat Café has a social attraction, making it ideal for those who want to use WIFI to browse social media or play games online. This means that if you’re an avid gamer, whether you play Tetris, Sims or online Casino, you can still access your favorite games here. What’s more, if you finish one game and want to move onto the next, access to WIFI can even help you explore all options. Take online casino as an example – combined with a comparative list between tabletop games, and a list of offers or bonuses you can benefit from, pa online casinos are made simple via access to the internet. This means you can play popular games like Blackjack with the click of a finger, while sipping your coffee in another hand.

Dandelion Market

Source: Pexels

Kicking it up a notch, Dandelion Market serves lunch, brunch, and a small dinner menu, which means that you can enjoy this WIFI hotspot alongside any meal of the day. This is perhaps best for those that have a flexible work and social life and might need last-minute internet access for a work project that needs that final adjustment.

The name for this restaurant was actually taken from a market in Dublin and is intended to prompt you to remember the good things in life such as friends and family. So, if you have someone close to your heart who can’t be with you for your special meal, access to WIFI can help you achieve this via video chat.

Here we have explored just three of Charlottes WIFI hotspots where you can enjoy good grub while doing the essential and enjoyable daily tasks you participate in every day.

Stylish Ways to Wear Men’s Gold Bracelet

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Men wear bracelets to accentuate and, at the same time, accessorize their outfits. Like watches, bracelets can be worn as frequently as every day. Some men wear bracelets like it’s a ritual, some may get extremely uncomfortable going out with bare wrists. Of course, there is a wide collection you can choose from— rope bracelets, cuff bracelets, ID bracelets, gemstone bracelets, gold bangle, and bracelets.

If you want to fulfill a chic and confident look, a gold bracelet is the right accessory for you. Gold bracelets can withstand the test of time, and it would help you exude a sophisticated charm too. Since primitive times, gold bracelets signify prosperity and competence, and their meaning is outlasted until today. 

Why Choose Gold Bracelets?

We pick the best style based on the look we are trying to achieve. It would be best if you always looked for chains that will satisfy your style. However, bracelets created out of precious metals and gemstones are ones that can hoist your morale on either casual or special events.

Absolutely, all of us want to be healthy at all times, especially in the current times, but infectious agents like viruses are everywhere, and it’s not easy to avoid them. Basically, gold bracelets heighten one’s immunity. You can see that most people with gold pieces of jewelry always wear them. Indeed, it’s an investment for one’s health security. 

Besides, with luxurious gold bracelets, you’ll find it more natural to socialize with people and display yourself. Hence, gold jewelry promotes your emotional welfare. Certainly, gold bracelets are worthy purchases you can have today.

If you are now encouraged to buy a wrist accessory, it is definitely the best time to spend on gold bracelets. You are now probably wondering how you are going to wear it after finally purchasing it. Worry no more and read through our gold bracelet wearing guide below.

Complementing a Watch

Basically, watches are designed to be worn on the left wrist since most people are right-handed because they are intended for the wrist opposite to the dominant one. However, if you’re trying to pull off multiple bands on your wrist, you better accessorize both of them. 

Preferably, if you’re planning to wear a gold bracelet with your wristwatch, consider donning the watch in your dominant hand. You must wear your gold band on the other wrist. 

You can wear multiple bands on one wrist, of course. If you want your other wrist totally empty, there’s no wrong it pursuing such style. However, if you’re attending a corporate event, you’ll definitely make a mark by wearing the gold band in your non-dominant arm and the watch on your other wrist. 

Should It Be Below or Above the Watch?

If you are planning to wear a watch and gold band on the same wrist, you probably have a hard time deciding the arrangement of the accessories on your wrist.

The wristwatch-gold band combo is achievable if you’re keen on both contrast and balance. The first thing to consider is the size of the bracelet. As the wearer, remember that the main goal is to pull off a balanced combination. Each band should gain equal attention. Thin bracelets should be fixed above the wristwatch so that it could match the appeal of your watch. In contrast, you can wear thick and bulky bracelets above or below the watch.

The bracelet’s fit is one determining factor you also have to keep in mind. If it is freer than your watch, consider donning it under your watch so that it won’t get entangled with your watch every time you move your arms. 

Wear It with Urban Clothing

Everybody is fascinated with streetwear. All of the baseball caps, joggers, statement tees, and sneakers could be complemented with a gold band. There is no better way to make a statement inspired by a streetwear vibe than to wear gold accessories with urban clothing.

Perhaps, it is the contrast of the streetwear’s rugged style and the expensive appeal of the gold band that makes it a cool combo. However, gold bracelets could look tacky in these articles of clothing, so you better be good at mixing and matching your entire outfit. 

Best with Plain Tees

Working out a style like the American rapper Jay Z is quite uncomplicated. All you have to do is wear a plain white shirt and wrap your neck with a flashy statement pendant and wrists with gold or silver bands. 

Other plain colors like black and blue could go well with gold accessories. You can pick whatever style you want—chunky gold bracelets or even thin bands.

On Mixing Metals

One conventional rule in wearing accessories is to never mix metals. For instance, gold bracelets should never be matched with a silver band. In the modern jewelry world, anyone can break such a rule. Women can do a great job in pairing metals, yet it could be tough for men. 

It’s not only all about wearing silver and metal bracelets at once. Start by picking the primary piece and then choose the complementary band and see that both items’ tones and shades befit each other. 

Takeaway

Most men are not fond of getting overly dramatic over fashion patterns and styles. Gold bracelets can make one look sophisticated when matched with formal outfits. It could also go well with a utilitarian look. Apparently, by applying the correct ways of wearing such accessories, these bracelets will definitely suit well in a man’s jewelry box.

 

 

First Verified Case of Unique South African COVID Variant Discovered in North Carolina

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The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has just announced the detection of the first verified case of COVID-19 variant B.1.351 in North Carolina.

The new variant was found in an adult in the central part of North Carolina who reports not having traveled recently. North Carolina is now the 4th state in America to detect the new B.1.351 variant (South Carolina was the first).

The new B.1.351 variant differs from the UK variant B.1.1.7 (which was detected in Charlotte last month) in that it seems to be both more contagious and more resistant to the Covid-19 vaccine.

Recent studies have shown that mutations in the variant can help the virus partially evade the human immune response and are potentially more likely to reinfect those who have already had Covid-19.

Novavax recently released a new report saying that its experimental Covid-19 vaccine was 90% effective in the U.K., and 49% effective in South Africa. Health experts hope that other vaccines made in different ways could see less of a drop in efficacy.

Moderna and Novavax have said they are currently studying booster shots designed specifically to combat the new B.1.351 strain.

“The emergence of variants that are more infectious means it’s more important than ever to do what we know works to slow the spread — wear a mask, wash your hands, wait 6 feet apart, and get vaccinated when it’s your turn,” remarked NCDHHS Secretary Mandy K. Cohen, MD.

NCDHHS has recently updated their suggestions for improved mask-wearing based on new CDC guidelines. The NCDHHS now recommends that you:

  • Make sure your mask fits snugly against your face and covers your nose and mouth. To help with a snug fit, you can use a mask with a metal strip along the top of the mask.
  • Use two or more layers for your face covering. You can do this by wearing a cloth face covering with two or more layers or by wearing one disposable mask (sometimes referred to as a surgical mask or a medical procedure mask) underneath a cloth mask.
  • Do not wear two disposable masks.
  • Make sure you can see and breathe easily.

For additional information on how to improve mask-wearing, please see updated guidelines from the CDC.

North Carolina Ranks Among The Top Moved-To States in America Over The Past Year

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To kick off 2021, Allied Van Lines has released their 2020 Migration Report, which covers the state-to-state relocation of millions of Americans and insights about the State of Migration Across the USA.

The report highlights migration trends identified in its nationwide consumer and corporate moves throughout 2020.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, many Americans still moved for work. The top five destination states for Allied corporate moves in 2020 were Texas, California, Illinois, Florida and North Carolina. These five continue to be the highest volume destination states in line with trends from 2019.

For consumer moves, the top destination state was Florida followed by Texas, California, Arizona and North Carolina.

Your Primer for Good Time at The Kings Mountain Casino

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As you may have heard, there’s a major new casino complex coming to the Charlotte area, courtesy of the Catawba Indian Tribe. We’ve seen images of the Kings Mountain complex already (or artistic renderings at any rate), and the word is out that it will ultimately be a $273 million facility just 30 miles west of the city. The casino will reportedly include nearly 2,000 electronic games, 54 table games, several restaurants, and 1,500 hotel rooms.

This sounds like a ton of fun, and frankly it’s the sort of place a lot of people in Charlotte and elsewhere would like to see more of in and around major American cities. On that same note though, casino entertainment is also bound to be pretty new to many in the Charlotte area. Save for Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort in the Eastern Cherokee Reservation west of Asheville, there really isn’t anything of this kind in the region.

Undoubtedly, the new Kings Mountain Casino will be a big attraction right away. Because it does represent something new though, visitors from Charlotte and elsewhere in North Carolina should know a few things before going.

Here’s our brief but essential primer for a good time at a casino complex of this nature….

The Slots Are the Main Focus

A 2018 Forbes piece on casinos and how they use math to make their money indicated that slot machines remain far and away the main drivers of business. It’s said that in many states casinos earn between 65% and 80% of their gaming income from slots, with some Las Vegas casinos pushing that number to 88%. This doesn’t really have to affect your experience, but if you’re not accustomed to casinos you may be surprised just how much the slots seem to be emphasized. In everything from floor layout to game design, casinos work to draw attention to the slots. If they’re what interests you, then this is great! If not, just remember that if it seems like the whole casino floor consists of slots, there are still poker, blackjack, and craps tables around the corner.

Poker Takes Some Learning

If you’re interested in playing poker in a casino, you’d do well to learn the ins and outs of the game before going. This starts with the rules, such as how the cards are dealt, when and how players place bets, and when and how to form your hand. Beyond the rules, you also need to know your way around the different hands. Poker.org’s rundown of what each hand is worth makes for a handy resource, and will help to teach you which combinations of cards out-value others. Naturally the game is a little more complex than this, but a firm grasp of the hand values will allow you to get in the game and learn from there. That said, it’s also important to remember that even if you’re already familiar with these basic elements of the game, playing in a casino is a bit different than playing at home. There’s a little more pressure with other players you don’t know and a professional dealer moving things along, and the better you know the rules the better you’ll be able to keep up (and the more fun you’ll have!).

Blackjack’s a Bit Simpler

If you’re interested in playing cards but poker seems a little intimidating, you should also keep in mind that blackjack is a little simpler. Mind you, it’s not necessarily easier. Both games combine strategy and chance, and either can result in a good or bad night. But there’s a little bit less to keep track of in blackjack, as well as less competition between players. Learning blackjack takes a little bit less time, and it’s usually easier to fit in at a casino table as a beginner. Ideally, if you’re curious about both card games, you should try both! But blackjack can make for a smoother introduction to casino play.

You May Be Able to Bet on Sports

We can’t guarantee just yet that the Kings Mountain Casino will have an in-house sportsbook. However, we do know that North Carolina is inching toward making sports betting more regular. In 2019, Governor Cooper signed a new bill to study the impact of sports betting in the state, and we also know that states that have already legalized sports betting are making boatloads of money off of it. Additionally, existing Cherokee casinos do have regulated sports betting, which makes it seem like it will be a matter of time before the Kings Mountain complex introduces this feature. So, if you’re looking ahead to this casino’s opening, you can probably count on being able to place sports bets there as well. Just be sure, as with poker and blackjack, that you brush up on how it all works.

You’ll Want to Sit Down & Eat!

A key final point if you’re not familiar with major casino hotels is that you’ll want to factor dining into your plans! These facilities make a point of building in statement restaurants — often a bit gaudy or over-the-top, but often fantastic as well. “Several restaurants” are promised at Kings Mountain Casino, and if the venue much like its counterparts these will include establishments offering decadent international cuisine, and high-end modern American fare, as well as possibly places owned by celebrity chefs. You’ll definitely want to book a table for a bite in between your other activities at the casino.

All in all this should be a fun and exciting addition to the area. Because casino entertainment will essentially be new to Charlotte though, it’s still a good idea to know what you’re getting into!