Keeping Our Tenants Informed! July 2013 The PRANDI Journal What You’ll Need: 1 1/2 lbs medium shrimp (cleaned, peeled, deveined, and halved lengthwise) 1 lemon mixed with Tabasco sauce 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1 1/2 cups corn grits (not instant grits) 6 slices bacon, chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper 1 or 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions 2 tablespoons flour 1 cup chicken stock 1 or 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup grated cheddar cheese Directions: Combine shrimp, lemon juice & Tabasco sauce mixture and set aside. In a large saucepan, bring the 6 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a rapid boil. Whisk in all of the grits a few handfuls at a time, until combined (they will bubble up initially). Decrease heat, and simmer over low heat for 35 minutes, stirring occasionally at first and then more frequently as the time passes. In between stirs, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until brown (but still limp). Add the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the pan with the bacon. Continue cooking until onion and green bell pepper are limp (about 5 minutes). Add the scallions. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and continue to sauté for 5 minutes. Stir in the chicken stock and remaining salt. Cook 5 minutes, and remove from heat. By now the grits should be thick and creamy. Stir in as much butter as desired, and add cheese. **If desired: add a n extra splash of Tabasco sauce and salt, to taste. Cover the grits. Return the gravy to the stove and stir in the marinated shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are opaque (about 5 minutes). Serve immediately, mounding the grits in a shallow bowl or on a plate, and covering them with shrimp and gravy. CHARLESTON SHRIMP & GRITS Happy Summer! We hope you have a few nice plans on your agenda this season—as the weather finally gets warmer! As a reminder, please check your Online Portal/Tenant Ledger to make sure your rental payments are up-to-date and all back-dated late fees are paid. If you have a prepayment on your account with us, please give your management team a call so we can correct that for you! —Your PRANDI Property Management Team A Note from PRANDI BRINGING THE OUTDOORS INSIDE For those who cannot get out to enjoy the beautiful weather this summer, or for those who need to stay in cooler weather but want to still enjoy the pleasures of summertime, here are a some tips to help bring the “outside” indoors: 1. Incorporate natural textures and patterns on throw pillows/throw rugs. Use items such as wicker baskets (or even rattan, hemp, and jute) to decorate your interior for that more “rugged” feel. 2. Take inspiration from the outdoors, such as lighter shades of green, blue, tan, and yellow. These colors look particularly beautiful on walls, curtains or statement pieces. 3. Utilize unique natural elements in your décor. Try using bits of rock, wood, shells or even jars of sand to uniquely bring in “the nature.” 4. Open your windows and let in the light! Consider replacing heavy drapery with lighter fabrics and/or sheer curtains. 5. Entice your senses. Woodsy/floral scents add this extra element. Sounds of rain, wind, and the beach make you feel you are outside too! SUMMER FIRE SAFETY With the summer season upon us, it is important to keep your property safe from unnecessary fire damage (especially for those backing up to dry/open space). While there can be unpredictable circumstances, it is best to prepare and follow some of these “just in case” helpful tips! 1. Remove any trash or debris near open/ defensible space. 2. Stack firewood uphill or on a contour away from the home. 3. Make sure your outdoor water supply has a hose, nozzle and pump. 4. Make sure any fire tools (such as ladder/fire extinguisher) are easily accessible. 5. Make sure the driveway is clear enough for a wide fire truck to get close to all structures. 6. And be sure to practice family evacuation plans with all of your household members. At the same time, let us know if we need to thin trees/brush around the property near any defensible space. Please also call if you have any branches overhanging the roof, or if your gutters are full of any excess leaves or debris. BY REID SMITH RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA PRANDI SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM