At Occano, the Sound is a gift we unwrap day after day—and share with the ones we love most. And we look forward to sharing it with you.

Invasive species are plants, animals and microbes that are introduced into a non-native ecosystem and cause, or are likely to cause, harm to the economy, environment or human health. An invasive species that colonizes a new area may gain an ecological edge since the insects, diseases, and foraging animals that naturally keep its growth in check in its native range are not present in its new habitat, according to Audubon International.             Audubon International offers these suggestions to help prevent the spread of invasive species: Find out what the most troublesome invasive species are in your local area. If you don’t… Read More »

Article Originally written by Alwaystheholidays August 5 is National Oyster Day. It’s a perfect day to celebrate the many ways to eat oysters, and answer the most frequently asked questions about them! Are you an oyster lover? Today is the day for you! Keep reading to learn how to celebrate National Oyster Day, fun facts about oysters, the answer to whether you will find a pearl in the next oyster you eat, and more! What is National Oyster Day? National Oyster day is a day dedicated to celebrating oysters! It is celebrated annually on August 5th.  I find that people either… Read More »

Did you know that watermelon is 92% water? No wonder it’s so refreshing! People have been digging into this tasty, juicy fruit for millennia and it all started in Ancient Egypt. It’s said that watermelon cultivation began in the Nile Valley as early as the second millennium B.C. Watermelon seeds were even found in King Tut’s tomb! On August 3, we celebrate this ancient berry in a feast of juicy deliciousness—otherwise known as National Watermelon Day. WHEN IS NATIONAL WATERMELON DAY 2022? There’s nothing like beating the heat with summertime’s most refreshing fruit, celebrated on National Watermelon Day on August… Read More »

International Day of Friendship was designated by the United Nations General Assembly (U.N.). On July 30, we step back and get thankful for these relationships worldwide, as they promote and encourage peace, happiness, and unity. The U.N. encourages governments, community groups, and other organizations to coordinate activities and events that celebrate the friendships that we keep close to us. Many events focus on reconciliation, bridging understanding and consensus, and finding comfort in those friendships that feel like home. It’s important to cultivate your friendships as well. Friendships: Enrich your life and improve your health What are the benefits of friendships? According… Read More »

I have had numerous people ask about getting their information into the community directory. You have the ability to hide your information, or to allow it to be seen by other owners. I will never share personal information automatically; this is something you will have to decide for yourself. In order to do this, you will need to log into your account, click your name/picture icon At the top click privacy settings, and you will see a toggle on the right, to allow people to see your information. Make sure to save the changes before you click out of the… Read More »

Did you ever wonder how all of the geese that are congregating on the golf course are affecting the ecology of the ponds? How about the effect they may have on us or our animals? Considering each goose can produce 1 to 2 pounds of droppings each day, and a typical Canada goose may poop 28 times a day, it doesn’t look good for anyone. In fact, Geese are major contributors to Phosphorus and Nitrogen in ponds. These nutrients come directly from goose excrement and cause pond eutrophication. Pond eutrophication is a natural process that all bodies of water experience. It is… Read More »

When firing up your grills this summer, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reminds you to barbecue safely whether you use gas or charcoal. Gas Grills Liquid petroleum (LP) gas or propane, used in gas grills, is highly flammable. Each year about 30 people are injured as a result of gas grill fires and explosions. Many of these occur when consumers first use a grill that has been left idle for a period of time or just after refilling and reattaching the grill’s gas container. To reduce the risk of fire or explosion, consumers should routinely perform the following… Read More »

  Driving at night can be tricky—especially through neighborhoods or dimly lit landscapes—so it’s important to keep in mind a few basic guidelines to make sure you and your vehicle both are well-prepared for the trip. Consider the following suggestions to help get you to your destination safely. Ensure headlights are aimed properly. If you think your headlights are casting light too far above or below your line of vision on the road, you may need to adjust their aim. You can do this either by following instructions in your vehicle owner’s manual or seeking help from a vehicle maintenance… Read More »

Most of us already know that a teaspoon of baking soda in the batter will make the muffins rise, but who knew that a pinch of it mixed with scrambled eggs will make them fluffier or added to water will make steamed vegetables stay green? Aside from cooking, however, everyone knows that an open box of baking soda in the fridge will absorb strong odors. But did you also know that baking soda in the bath water can relieve itchy skin caused by bug bites or poison ivy? And that pouring a cup of baking soda followed by a cup… Read More »