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Celebrating Labor Day: Honoring the Legacy of American Workers and the Iconic Rosie the Riveter
Celebrating Labor Day: Honoring the Legacy of American Workers and the Iconic Rosie the Riveter
Labor Day, a cornerstone of American tradition, was born from the labor movement and serves as a day to honor the social and economic achievements of American workers. This annual tribute acknowledges the vital contributions that workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. As we enjoy the long weekend, it’s important to remember the rich history behind this holiday and the figures who have come to symbolize the American labor force.
The Origins of Labor Day
Labor Day has grown in significance over the years, with its first governmental recognition coming through municipal ordinances passed in 1885. These early acknowledgments reflected a growing awareness of the importance of the labor movement and the need to celebrate the people who powered the nation’s industries.
By 1909, the American Federation of Labor convention took the celebration a step further by designating the Sunday preceding Labor Day as “Labor Sunday,” a day dedicated to the spiritual and educational aspects of the labor movement. This expansion of Labor Day’s meaning highlighted not just the economic contributions of workers, but also their role in shaping the moral and educational fabric of the nation.
Rosie the Riveter: A Symbol of Strength and Resilience
Fast forward to the 1940s, when the United States found itself embroiled in World War II. As the war raged across Europe and the Pacific, the need for labor on the home front became more crucial than ever. Women stepped into roles traditionally held by men, who were now fighting overseas. It was during this time that the iconic figure of Rosie the Riveter emerged.
The song “Rosie the Riveter” became a rallying cry, celebrating the women who were taking on these essential jobs. To support the war effort, Westinghouse commissioned Pittsburgh artist J. Howard Miller to create a series of motivational posters. Among these was the now-famous image of a woman with her hair wrapped in a red polka-dot scarf, rolling up her sleeve and flexing her bicep, accompanied by the bold words “We Can Do It!” Although often associated with Rosie, this poster was actually based on a photograph of Geraldine Hoff, a 17-year-old working as a metal-stamping operator.
Norman Rockwell’s Rosie: A Different Take
In 1943, another iconic image of Rosie the Riveter was created by the legendary artist Norman Rockwell for the Memorial Day issue of the Saturday Evening Post. Rockwell’s Rosie was a muscular woman dressed in overalls, wearing goggles, and adorned with pins of honor on her lapel. She sported a leather wristband and had rolled-up sleeves, embodying the hardworking spirit of the time. Rockwell’s Rosie sat with a riveting tool in her lap, eating a sandwich, with “Rosie” inscribed on her lunch pail. In a powerful symbol of defiance, she was depicted stepping on a copy of Adolf Hitler’s *Mein Kampf*.
While Rockwell’s Rosie became less visible after the war, largely due to strict copyright protection by the Rockwell estate, her impact was undeniable. The original painting sold at Sotheby’s in 2002 for nearly $5 million and was later acquired by the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, in 2009, where it remains a permanent piece of their collection.
The Legacy of Labor Day and Rosie the Riveter
Labor Day is more than just a day off; it’s a celebration of the workers who have built and continue to build this nation. The legacy of Rosie the Riveter, with her rolled-up sleeves and “can-do” attitude, embodies the resilience and determination that define the American spirit. As we honor the achievements of workers past and present, let’s also remember the iconic figures like Rosie who inspire us to continue striving for a better, stronger future.
Just as Rosie has inspired generations, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Journey aims to be the trusted household name Northwest Arkansas depends on for generations to come. And we’re certain that is Rosie was in Real Estate, she would bring that same “can-do” gumption that our agents offer to their clients as we serve their dreams of better future.
The secret to becoming a first time home homebuyer : what you need to know.
Do you remember how it felt to hold the keys to your first home for the first time? Do you remember unpacking that last box? Were there quirks to that first house that you still laugh about? Did you buy your first home by yourself or with someone?
Becoming a first-time homebuyer is a deeply memorable experience, filled with a blend of excitement, pride, and a touch of anxiety. It’s the moment when dreams of owning a space to call your own transform into reality. The process, from searching for the perfect home to finally holding the keys in your hand, is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Every decision, every step, is charged with significance as it marks the beginning of a new chapter in life. The joy of creating a personal sanctuary, where future memories will be made, is an unforgettable milestone, leaving a lasting impression on your heart and mind.
It’s likely that no matter how imperfect that first house was you look back on it with some nostalgia because it was the first home you bought. That first big purchase is always memorable, and it should be. It’s a milestone and an achievement that should be celebrated.
Becoming a first-time homebuyer often involves navigating a series of significant hurdles that can be both challenging and daunting. The process begins with saving enough for a down payment, which can be difficult, especially in markets with rapidly rising home prices. Securing a mortgage adds another layer of complexity, as it requires a solid credit history, a stable income, and often, the assistance of a financial advisor to understand the various loan options.
- Low or Lack of Credit History
- Low Home Inventory
- No down payment
There are programs to help first time buyers clear those hurdles, such as, credit building cards, FHA loans that don’t focus heavily on credit score, new construction designed for first time home buyers, and down payment assistance programs.
For today, let’s focus on the hurdle of downpayment. The Arkansas Development Finance Authority has several programs that make purchasing a home more affordable for low-to-moderate income families and individuals. For eligible borrowers, these programs can greatly reduce the out-of-pocket expense to the buyer. Two of these program are the “ADFA Move-Up” Loan Program and the ADFA STARTSMART First Time Homebuyer program.
Current ADFA program for Arkansas allows for up to $15,000 in down payment assistance for qualified borrowers which can be used towards Down Payment and Closing Costs on the purchase of a home. ADFA allows for that $15,000 to also be used towards Buyer’s Agent Commission as it is part of the cost of purchasing a home if stated in the contract.
Down Payment Assistance works as a loan in conjunction with the mortgage for the new home. The loan is set on a 10 year note with the interest rate matching that of the mortgage.
For example: if you were borrowing $15,000 (the full amount) to use towards the down payment and closing costs, and your interest rate is 6.375% (todays rate), your monthly payment would be $169 for the DPA. This would be added to your total monthly payment. So if you were buying a $250,000 house with a 3.5% down payment your loan of $241,500 would have a payment of roughly $1,750 a month which would bring your total payment to $1,919 a month with the DPA added. A buyer could bring $0 to the closing and essentially finance the entire home this way.
For more information on these programs, visit the ADFA’s website.
While the hurdles to becoming a first-time homebuyer can seem daunting, they should not deter you from exploring your options. Every challenge faced along the way is a step toward the rewarding achievement of owning your own home. With careful planning, sound financial advice, and patience, these obstacles can be overcome.
The satisfaction of having a place to call your own, where you can build a future and create lasting memories, far outweighs the temporary difficulties of the home-buying process. It’s important to stay focused on your goals, seek support when needed, and remember that many have successfully navigated this path before you.
Embrace the journey, knowing that the outcome will be worth the effort.
Could New Construction make your Homeownership Journey Better?
Buying a home is such a fun process, but can often leave a client feeling like Goldilocks: Maybe you like the open floor plan of that house but you don’t love the bathtub situation. Maybe you love the vintage feel of this house but you don’t like the uneven lot. Maybe you love everything about this house but you can’t live without a garage. Sometimes it is difficult to find the perfect house for you that has everything “just right”.
New Construction is an exciting way to purchase a home that can offer that “just right” feel because it allows you to make some options and preferences before it’s finished. One of our agents Johnny Skaggs had this to say about several of the new constructions he has closed on recently,
“Purchasing a new construction home offers advantages that can make a home-buyers experience reassuring. One major benefit, I see, is a builder’s warranty that typically comes with new homes, ensuring that any construction-related issues will be addressed within the first year of ownership. Additionally, buyers have the unique opportunity to “blue tape” the property during a walkthrough before closing, marking any imperfections or concerns that the builder should address.
Modern new construction homes often feature the latest trends such as: open floor plans, smart home technology, energy-efficient appliances, and contemporary finishes. Another great aspect of new construction is that if you get in early enough, you can often choose some of the finishes and colors according to your preferences. However, it’s important to know that some new homes might not come with essentials like a washer and dryer, blinds, or gutters, so it’s wise to check what is included in your purchase. Oftentimes you can negotiate some of these items into your offer. I have several happy clients have very positive experiences with their new construction home ownership journey.”
Thirty-five percent of all the homes sold in the last twelve months in Northwest Arkansas have been new construction, whereas, according to the National Association of Realtors®, it is traditionally closer to ten percent. Bruce Gillispie had this insight into our area, “Aside from floors and finishes, the local conversation is shifting to affordable housing. New Construction may offer clients new options of staying within their budget and doing without certain finishes or features while still giving them a path to home ownership.”
NAR sees this as well; home builders are addressing these affordability concerns.
“Builders increasingly are offering sales incentives, like funds toward closing costs (up to $20,000) or “flex dollars” to use toward home upgrades. Single-family housing starts nationwide are forecast to increase 4.7% this year and another 4.2% in 2025, reaching a pace of 1.3 million units”
Buying a home with a fixed-rate mortgage helps stabilize housing costs, while also allowing for the opportunity to invest in the future by building equity and net worth. That kind of stability is a big deal.
So if you’re looking for stability and an investment in your future, new construction might be the “just right” path for you on your journey to becoming a home owner. We’re here to help every step of the way. We’re here to help make your homeownership Journey…Better.
Trending House Styles: Moody Victorian, Modern, Modern Farmhouse, and Sustainable Eco Chic
In the ever-evolving world of home design, several styles have emerged or re-emerged as front-runners, captivating homeowners and designers alike. In 2024 trends like wainscoting, moody gothic colors, vintage florals, and nostalgic touches are resurfacing and demanding our attention. Home design trends in 2024 are all about blending functionality with aesthetics while prioritizing sustainability.
This year, we’re seeing a surge in biophilic design, which incorporates natural elements like plants, natural light, and organic materials to create serene, nature-inspired interiors. Bold colors and statement pieces are making a comeback, adding personality and vibrancy to living spaces. Minimalism remains influential, but it’s evolving into a more personalized and eclectic style, allowing for curated collections of meaningful objects. Technology integration is seamless, with smart home systems enhancing convenience and efficiency. Additionally, sustainability continues to be a driving force, with eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions taking center stage in modern home design.
Victorian
1. Rich Color Palettes: Moody Victorian homes are defined by their deep, saturated colors. Think dark blues, rich greens, and bold burgundies. These hues create a dramatic and intimate atmosphere.
2. Ornate Details: Intricate moldings, decorative trims, and elaborate wallpapers are staples. These elements add a sense of grandeur and historical charm to the space.
3. Vintage Furniture: Antique pieces with detailed woodwork, tufted upholstery, and luxurious fabrics are key components. Velvet and brocade are popular choices for upholstery.
4. Ambient Lighting: Chandeliers, sconces, and table lamps with warm, diffused light enhance the moody ambiance. Stained glass windows are also a striking feature.
5. Eclectic Decor: A mix of old-world charm and modern accents. Think vintage mirrors, brass fixtures, and art that spans different periods, all contributing to a layered and collected look.
Modern
1. Minimalism: Clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and a focus on functionality define modern homes. Less is more in this design philosophy.
2. Neutral Palettes: Whites, grays, and blacks dominate the color scheme, often accented by bold pops of color through art or furniture.
3. Natural Materials: Use of materials like wood, glass, and metal is prevalent. These materials are often left in their natural state to showcase their raw beauty.
4. Open Floor Plans: Modern homes often feature open layouts that enhance the sense of space and flow between different areas.
5. Innovative Technology: Smart home systems, energy-efficient appliances, and advanced lighting solutions are integrated seamlessly into the design.
Modern Farmhouse
1. Rustic Charm Meets Modern: This style blends the cozy, rustic elements of a traditional farmhouse with clean, modern lines and contemporary touches.
2. Warm and Neutral Tones: Whites, soft grays, and earth tones create a welcoming and warm atmosphere. Natural wood elements add warmth and texture.
3. Shiplap and Barn Doors: These classic farmhouse elements are often used as focal points in walls, ceilings, and sliding doors.
4. Industrial Accents: Metal fixtures, exposed beams, and repurposed materials like reclaimed wood bring an industrial edge to the design.
5. Comfortable Furnishings: Overstuffed sofas, vintage-inspired lighting, and functional yet stylish furniture pieces create a cozy, lived-in feel.
Sustainable “Eco Chic”
1. Eco-Friendly Materials: Sustainable homes prioritize the use of recycled, reclaimed, and eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, cork, and reclaimed wood.
2. Energy Efficiency: Solar panels, energy-efficient windows, and smart home technologies help reduce the carbon footprint.
3. Indoor-Outdoor Living: Large windows, bi-fold doors, and open layouts that connect the indoors with nature are key features. Green roofs and living walls are also popular.
4. Natural Aesthetics: Neutral tones, organic textures, and plenty of greenery create a serene and natural environment.
5. Water Conservation: Rainwater harvesting systems, low-flow fixtures, and drought-resistant landscaping are integral components.
Whether you’re captivated by the dramatic elegance of Moody Victorian, the sleek simplicity of Modern design, the cozy yet contemporary vibe of Modern Farmhouse, or the eco-conscious approach of Sustainable Eco Chic, there’s a trend to match your aesthetic and lifestyle preferences. Each of these styles brings unique characteristics that can transform any house into a personalized and stylish home. No matter your location or your home dreams, there are ways to change your aesthetic to match what trends you love the most or find a home that fits your style and life.
[Images: Pinterest]
At Home with Journey
We tried a Better Homes and Gardens© recipe this week in our iconic Bentonville location kitchen and here’s how it turned out:
We leaned a little more in the turquoise direction, but the frosting was divine. Next time we might even double the recipe to add a third layer and to ensure all the layers are taller just for presentation sake, but the dense velvet cake was delish. We added some fresh florals for an added pop of color because what real estate agency doesn’t love a pop of color?
You should try this recipe and let us know how it goes!
All in all, this was a fun cake build, a delicious recipe, and we’ll definitely be doing this monthly with our newsletter. Maybe next month we’ll do something savory.
Do you get our newsletter? You could! You Should!
Sign up with the link and get the latest updates with real estate in NWA and fun Better Homes and Gardens© recipes like this one!
Hey Boomer! : The hurdles each generation faces to home ownership
Who had it harder: Boomers or their grandchildren?
Let’s look at some of the contributing factors, deterrents, and incentives of home ownerships in contrast between several generations.
During the years the Boomers were turning 30, the median household income needed to make the typical mortgage payment was 33.2% – the highest of any living generation. Home prices shot up more than 60% in four years due to massive waves of inflation.
In 1980 mortgage loan payments jumped 34% with rates topping 16%, while in just two short years, unemployment would be at all time high at 10.8 % in 1982. [1] According to the Berkley Economic Review [2], 45 % of Boomers were able to buy their first home between the ages of 25 and 34, whereas only 37% of Millennials own a home in the same range.
Even though, according to Freddie Mac[3], Gen X and Older Millennials had the lowest rates in decades as they turned 30. Both Gen X and Millennials faced different struggles than Boomers, especially as the Millennials were coming out of the Great Economic Recession of 2007 when the job market was the weakest, saddled with significant college debt, and major cultural shifts were happening. Even though rates were low, it was the worst possible time to buy.
While Boomers had the highest rate of median income needed to make a typical mortgage payment, Gen X was not far behind at 25.8% – they saw a 23 % increase in the inflation adjusted home prices. While Millennials only face the 22.5% median income needed, the average age of first-time home buyers is on the rise significantly from The Baby Boomers.
Millennials are also forging new paths to creating wealth[4] by living at home longer, renting, and investing in order to buy when it makes sense instead of when it is expected of them like previous generations; Millennials value being a bit more mobile.
But, because Boomers inhabit 32 million owner occupied homes (2 out 5)[5], there is a projected exodus, the “Silver Tsunami”[6], that will begin between 2026 and 2036 as older Boomers depart their homes for retirement community, transition care facilities, or even moving back in with their children to be cared for. “The coming acceleration of older adults departing home ownership adds urgency to industry and policy efforts to facilitate a smooth handoff of housing assets from older to younger generations”.[7]
Each generation has had circumstances and world event context stacked against them when it comes to owning a home, and each generation has forged their own path toward their dreams. Despite the nuanced and unique challenges that each has had to and will inevitably face, home ownership is still an attainable goal. Despite and in-spite of the market changes, real estate is an appreciating asset that can and does provide and build stability and wealth.
Where to Watch: 2024 Firework Displays
Where to watch: a list of 2024 Firework displays
Whether you are hosting friends and making your own backyard fun or attending a big display, we hope you have a fun and safe holiday. Here are some place to watch fireworks starting this weekend!
Saturday, June 29
Prairie Grove Annual Firework Display
What: Firework display
Where: Prairie Grove High School
Time: Fireworks start at dark
More info: www.facebook.com/PrairieGroveCity
Sunday, June 30
Pea Ridge Freedom Fest
What: Parade, food, games, music, inflatables and fireworks
Where: Discover Church, Pea Ridge (577 Weston Street)
Time: 6 p.m.
More info: Facebook.com
Fireworks at the Crosses
What: Firework display, food, music, baptisms
Where: Pinnacle Hills Cross Church in Rogers
Time: Fireworks begin at dark
More info: www.crosschurch.com
Wednesday, July 3
West Fork Independence Day Celebration
What: Firework display, food trucks, music by Greenland Station Bluegrass Band
Where: Carter Park
Time: 6 p.m., fireworks at dark
More info: Facebook event
Bella Vista Independence Day Fireworks at Loch Lomond
What: Firework display, open to the public
Where: The park below Loch Lomond Dam on Glasgow Road in Bella Vista
Time: Parking starts at 5:30 p.m., and the show begins at dark
More info: bellavistaar.gov
3rd of July Fireworks at Arvest Ballpark
What: Baseball game between NWA Naturals and Springfield Cardinals, and firework display
Where: Arvest Ballpark
Time: Baseball game starts at 7:05 p.m., and fireworks will follow after the game
More info: milb.com
Thursday, July 4
Eureka Springs’s Jamboreeka!
What: Fireworks, live music, water games, beer, and food
Where: Lake Leatherwood City Park in Eureka Springs
Time: Festivities at 5 p.m., fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.
More info: www.eurekaspringschamber.com
Gentry Freedom Fest
What: Live music by Swade Diablos, Eaglemania, Butler Creek Boys, camel rides, inflatables, food, a car show, and a firework display
Where: Gentry City Park
Time: The festival starts at noon, fireworks begin at dark
More info: gentrychamber.com/events
Fireworks Spectacular & Live Orchestra at the Walmart Amp
What: Firework display, patriotic music by SoNA
Where: The Walmart AMP
Time: Music at 7:30 p.m., fireworks begin at 9:15
More info: amptickets.com
Farmington Independence Day Firework Show
What: Firework display
Where: Randall G Lynch Middle School in Farmington
Time: Fireworks begin at dark
More info: Facebook post
An Evening at Orchards Park
What: Firework display, food, and live music
Where: Orchards Park in Bentonville
Time: Music starts at 7 p.m., fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
More info: bentonvillear.com
4th of July Block Party
What: Firework display, food trucks, line dancing, music by Maud Crawford, and Clay Page
Where: Orchards Park in Bentonville
Time: Starts at 5 p.m., music starts at 6 p.m., fireworks start at around 9:15 p.m.
More info: Facebook Post
Siloam Springs 4th of July Block Party
Enjoy live music, food trucks, family fun, and more on Sue Anglin Dr. near the rodeo grounds. The gates open at 5p, and fireworks start after dark.
Friday, July 5
23rd Annual Fireworks at Beaver
What: Firework show only visible on Beaver lake
Where: Beaver Lake 9484 Simrell Drive in Garfield
Time: Fireworks are scheduled to begin at dark
More info: beaverlakeresorts.com
23rd Annual Fireworks at Beaver
What: Parade, cookout and fireworks
Where: Lost Bridge Village in Garfield
Time: Parade at 4:30 p.m., fireworks begin at dark
More info: lbvca.com
