Discover the Heart of Huntington, West Virginia: A Gem of Appalachian Charm

Huntington, West Virginia is a city where history, innovation, and natural beauty intertwine to create an inviting community. This vibrant city sits along the majestic Ohio River, offering residents stunning views and a serene atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with its bustling downtown. People here find a blend of small-town warmth and the conveniences of modern urban life, making Huntington a delightful place to call home.

The heart of the city pulses with an impressive cultural scene. Marshall University breathes youthful energy into the area, encouraging a robust blend of art, music, and academic pursuits. Residents enjoy a variety of festivals and events year-round, none more cherished than the annual ChiliFest, which brings the community together for delicious food and lively entertainment.

Nature enthusiasts are in for a treat, with Huntington's beautiful parks like Ritter Park, offering walking paths, sports facilities, and picturesque picnic spots. Those seeking adventure can explore the nearby Ohio River for an exhilarating day on the water.

Huntington truly offers a welcoming and dynamic place to live, where the spirit of community thrives alongside cultural diversity and natural splendor. Whether walking through its scenic parks, exploring its historic streets, or engaging with its innovative spirit, you'll find a city rich with opportunities and warm-hearted people.

How Parents Can Help Minimize the Need for Braces in Their Children

Dr. Joseph H. Thompson

Many children eventually require orthodontic care, but there are meaningful ways for parents to encourage healthy dental development and possibly reduce the need for braces. This begins with instilling consistent oral hygiene routines from an early age. Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly helps prevent the buildup of plaque, which can lead to gum disease or cavities—both of which may contribute to tooth misalignment over time.

Beyond cleaning habits, it's important to address behaviors that can interfere with natural tooth positioning. Prolonged thumb-sucking, extended pacifier use, and tongue thrusting during swallowing are all habits that can gradually push teeth out of alignment. Guiding children away from these behaviors, ideally before the age of four, helps preserve the integrity of developing bite patterns.

Jaw and facial development also play critical roles in how a child's teeth grow in. Encouraging children to eat firm, fibrous foods—such as apples, carrots, and nuts—can help build strong jaw muscles and promote proper bite alignment. It’s also essential to observe how your child breathes. Habitual mouth breathing can affect the shape of the jaw and facial bones. In many cases, nasal breathing supports healthier oral and skeletal development.

Regular dental checkups provide a chance to monitor the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth. Baby teeth serve as natural guides for permanent teeth. If they are lost prematurely due to decay or injury, other teeth may drift into the empty space. This can interfere with proper alignment and may require intervention, such as space maintainers, to preserve room for the adult teeth.

The American Association of Orthodontists advises that children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early assessments allow professionals to identify developing issues and consider interventions that may reduce the need for braces in the future. While genetics influence alignment, promoting healthy habits and early care lays a strong foundation for a confident, functional smile.

Key Considerations Before Purchasing Commercial Real Estate

Brody Nash

Investing in commercial real estate is never as simple as picking a property in a busy area. Unlike residential purchases, commercial deals come with added layers of regulation, financing requirements, and long-term implications. A successful purchase requires looking beyond first impressions and understanding the details that will ultimately determine whether the property helps or hinders your goals.
The most important factors to review are zoning restrictions, accessibility, and how future development might reshape the area. Ignoring these can leave buyers with costly setbacks that are difficult to reverse.
One of the first issues to examine is permitted use. Local zoning rules dictate what type of business can operate on the site. A building that seems perfect for a retail shop or restaurant may not be legally used for that purpose. Zoning can also govern building size, signage, parking, and even hours of operation. Reviewing city zoning maps and speaking with municipal planners can save buyers from legal headaches. While it is sometimes possible to request a variance or rezoning, those changes involve lengthy approval processes and no guaranteed outcome.
Accessibility plays just as important a role. A property may sit on a high-traffic road, but if parking is limited, deliveries are difficult, or utilities are outdated, the location can quickly lose its appeal. Customers, employees, and suppliers need easy access, and the site itself should have the infrastructure to support modern business operations. Ensuring that water, sewer, electrical, and even internet capacity meet your needs is a critical part of due diligence.
Looking ahead is equally important. Communities are constantly evolving, and government development plans often outline where new projects will take place. A commercial property that feels like a prime spot today might be overshadowed by a future highway or a competing shopping center. Reviewing these long-term plans can help avoid investing in a property that loses value as the area changes.
Environmental conditions also need attention. Older properties may contain hidden issues such as soil contamination, asbestos, or underground tanks. While many lenders require environmental assessments before closing, it is wise to order one even if it is not mandated. The cost of cleanup can be significant and may even limit the use of the property if not addressed early.
The physical condition of the building is another major factor. Commercial inspections go beyond basic checks, covering everything from structural stability to HVAC systems and electrical capacity. Repairs and upgrades can be far more expensive in a commercial setting than in a residential one, so knowing the property’s true condition is essential before committing to the purchase.
Financing adds another layer of complexity. Commercial loans typically involve higher down payments, shorter repayment periods, and stricter qualification standards than residential mortgages. Lenders often want to see a solid business plan that outlines how the property will generate income. Partnering with a bank experienced in commercial real estate lending can make the process more manageable.
Long-term potential should also guide decision-making. Some buyers prioritize steady rental income, while others seek properties that can be redeveloped or expanded over time. Evaluating how a property fits into broader investment goals is often the difference between a purchase that provides steady returns and one that becomes a financial burden.
Purchasing commercial real estate requires more than spotting a building in the right location. It demands research, professional insight, and a clear understanding of both present conditions and future possibilities. With the right preparation, a commercial property can be a cornerstone investment that delivers value for years to come.