BUILDING PERMITS

Boulder

Building construction permits over $10,000 in value that were approved in Boulder between Feb. 6 and Feb. 12, 2012. Listed below are: the case number; address; total project valuation; owner name; contractor (if applicable); and description.

PMT2012-00349; 1500 Pearl St.; $85,000; Central Boulder; Deneuve Construction Services; Tenant remodel to reconfigure interior walls to create an office area, ANSI accessible restroom, cash wrap and storage area. Install new ductwork, relocate diffusers, install LED area and track lighting, and relocate sink.

PMT2011-04755; 2406 Bluff St.; $219,669.70; John Watson; Two-story single-family dwelling, 2,187 square feet finished, 954-square-foot unfinished basement, 490 square feet in decks and porches. Four bedrooms, three bathrooms, high-efficiency water heat and forced-air furnace. See case notes for details regarding zoning conditions of approval and setback/height verification requirements.

PMT2011-04890; 4504 Sprucedale Place; $400,285; Lyons Valley; Markel Homes Construction Co.; New three-story single-family dwelling -- three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, one three-quarter bathroom, third floor loft/study. 3,021 square feet, 1,422 square feet unfinished with attached 848-square-foot tandem garage and 388 square feet in decks and porches.

PMT2011-05180; 2425 Canyon Blvd.; $650,000; Waterstreet Plaza; Facilities Contracting Inc.; Tenant remodel of 5,702 square feet on the ground floor to create an outpatient medical imaging facility for Envision Radiology. Exterior mechanical equipment to be installed as RTUs. Exterior building changes, including window and door relocation.

PMT2012-00173; 5995 Arapahoe Road; $46,000; J. Crouch; Tandem Enterprises Inc.; Refresh of exterior facade at Flatirons Subaru. Not a Sign Permit.

PMT2012-00227; 1005 Grape Ave.; $20,000; Carrie Cavanaugh-Keyek; Mountain View Corporation Inc; Remodel existing basement to include beam replacement; Enclose existing carport to garage (not change in parking).

PMT2012-00419; 2400 Arapahoe Ave; $35,048.16; Co-Arapaho FW; Pirnack Walters Enterprises Inc.; Landlord improvements for expansion of Performance Bicycle into an adjacent space, to include associated mechanical and electrical work.

PMT2012-00160; 1755 29th St., No. 1092; $325,000; Charlotte Ball; Center Management Group LLC; Tenant remodel for Moosejaw retail store. To include interior walls, finished flooring, ceiling, lighting, HVAC, ductwork and plumbing.

PMT2012-00491; 1850 Folsom St., No. 1110; $35,900; John and Isabel Murphy; Melton Construction Inc.; Interior remodel to enhance accessibility in condo unit. Scope of work includes relocation of non-bearing walls in hallway and interior doorways to increase width, replace bathroom fixtures including replacement of tub/shower combo with roll-in shower.

PMT2012-00168; 556 Utica Court; $21,000; Doris Houghland; Straitline Construction Co. Inc.; Construction of a 147-square-foot patio cover with a four-twelfths roof pitch with an adjacent 256-square-foot pergola over an existing sandstone patio area. No electrical, plumbing or mechanical work.

PMT2012-00246; 2425 Canyon Blvd.; $22,848; Waterstreet Plaza; Tenant remodel of 408 square feet on main floor to create three offices/conference rooms. Includes minor electrical and minor mechanical -- no plumbing.

PMT2012-00545; 5218 Pinehurst Drive; $10,000; Rebecca Fossel; Melton Construction Inc.; Interior kitchen remodel in residence including removal of non-bearing pantry walls, remove soffit, replace fixtures, finishes, cabinetry, countertops, associated electrical, mechanical for vent hood and duct alteration, plumbing for relocated water line for refrigerator.

PMT2011-03949; 1300 Cascade Ave.; $86,014.63; Chris Thornson; Treeline Homes Inc.; Construction of new, two-car, detached garage, 624 square feet, with second floor studio/office, 624 square feet, with half bath. Scope of work to include associated electrical, mechanical and plumbing.

PMT2012-00550; 1506 Brandt Court; $37,954.13; K. James; Energy Concepts Inc.; Basement finish in single-family residence including family room and three-quarter bath and storage area.

PMT2012-04839; 4668 Sprucedale Place; $402,274; Lyons Valley; Markel Homes Construction Co.; New single-family dwelling -- 3,045 square feet finished, 1,446 square feet unfinished -- consisting of three bedrooms, two full baths, one three-quarter bath, third floor loft/study, attached 848-square-foot two-car tandem garage. Main level 1,446 square feet finished, second level 1,364 square feet finished, third level 235 square feet finished -- 388 square feet in decks and porches. Rough-in A/C lines, fireplace.

PMT2012-00196; 4888 Pearl East Circle; $115,900; P3484950 LLC; Rincon Development Inc.; Tenant remodel of 1,170 square feet in an existing office space (Suite 103) to remove interior office walls and to make improvements to bathrooms, door hardware and associated items to improve accessibility. Existing lighting to be utilized.

PMT2012-00296; 350 Hopi Place; $16,150; C. Lois; Von Eschen Construction LLC; Conversion of an 11-by-12-foot unconditioned walled storage area (walls, no windows, only screens) in existing openings on the southwest corner of the main floor of the structure into a conditioned area for an additional laundry room and an additional three-quarter bathroom. No increase to building coverage or to floor area -- reconfigure window openings and window locations.

PMT2012-00479; 4146 Longview Lane; $35,361; Northfield Village; Hendricks Fine Homes LLC; Basement finish of 450 square feet to create a family room, full bathroom on existing rough-ins, and a storage area. Storage area has existing direct vent appliances. Fire sprinkler modifications by separate permit and separate review.

Here is the original post:
Boulder building permits: Feb. 20, 2012

The Master’s Design Build Group, formerly Master’s Craft Construction, has been honored with three Contractor of the Year (CotY) Awards by the Bucks-Mont Chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and two Northeast Regional Contractor of the Year Awards by NARI National.

Hatfield, PA (PRWEB) February 19, 2012

The Master’s Design Build Group, formerly Master’s Craft Construction, has been honored with three Contractor of the Year (CotY) Awards by the Bucks-Mont Chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and two Northeast Regional Contractor of the Year Awards by NARI National.

As the CotY Winner in the category of Kitchens from $40,000 to $80,000, Master’s Design Build partnered with Lifestyles Design of Perkiomenville, PA in transforming a dated, builder grade kitchen in Quakertown, PA, into an entertainer’s showcase. The client tasked the team with creating an open, interactive kitchen, to serve as the heart of the home. By incorporating a cooking station in the peninsula and extending it into a granite-topped floating table for guest seating, Master’s Design Build was able to create the entertaining hub the homeowners longed for. Removing the soffits and installing recessed lighting opened up the space. A thoughtful and creative design, using semi-custom Talora cabinetry by Décor, created the additional storage the homeowners needed. Well placed lighting is controlled by Lutron’s Spacer system giving the client convenient lighting control.

The CotY award-winning kitchen in the $80,001 to $120,000 category was located in Green Lane, PA. Master’s Design Build was challenged with bringing order and light to a dark, poorly designed kitchen. Mindful of the homeowner’s seasonal affective tendencies, Master’s Design Build designed a space which optimizes natural light and incorporates energy efficient LED lighting. The design provides ample, thoughtfully placed, semi-custom Talora Cabinetry, including a large center island featuring a stainless steel farmhouse sink and an area for seating. Completing the transformation are Cambria Blackstone Quartz countertops, a peninsula between the kitchen and family room with cabinetry accessible from both sides, a coffee prep center and sink and a bonus closet for added storage. The new expanded kitchen is brightly lit, has a purposeful flow, extensive storage and most importantly, happy owners. This project also won its CotY category in the Northeast Regional competition and is in consideration for the National award.

The CotY award winning project in the Residential Addition Under $100,000 category was for a sunroom renovation in Hatfield, PA. In preparation for retirement, the homeowners wanted to convert their existing three season sunroom into a space they could relax in year round. The existing sunroom had a low ceiling and low windows which kept the adjoining family room quite dark. The Master’s Design Build Group’s design incorporated a gable end roof with a cathedral ceiling and a half circle window, casement windows which were 16” higher than the existing windows, an 8’ Jeld Wen sliding door between rooms, recessed lighting and exterior sconces for accent lighting. Sometimes, it’s the details that matter, like the wide window stool featured throughout the sunroom where the homeowner now displays plants and decorative items. In the end, the homeowners were thrilled with the transformation and are looking forward to retirement. This project also won its CotY category in the Northeast Regional competition and is in consideration for the National award.

Judging for the 2012 Bucks Mont CotY competition was conducted by an impartial panel of 6 Bucks Mont NARI associates. The National judges panel is made up of industry experts from around the country who judge over 350 entries according to 7 Geographical Regions. The winners in each region are then judged against each other to determine the national winner in each category. Winners are selected based the complexity of the project, how problems were solved along the way, functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation, degree of difficulty and the entry presentation which includes “before and after” photography. It is a very competitive process. Regardless of the number of entries, CotY's are only awarded to companies whose work is deemed to be of the highest caliber.

Brian Martin, owner of The Master’s Design Build Group, also received the Spirit of NARI Achievement Award which is given to a NARI member who embodies: strong leadership, a passion for NARI, dedication, a commitment to good works for both the local Chapter and NARI organization and the highest standards of ethics. Bucks-Mont NARI Chapter President, Mark Glidden, shares, “Brian stands out for his incredibly positive attitude and dedication to our chapter. He oversees our Programming Committee and willingly takes on whatever is asked of him”.

For more information on Master’s Design Build Group and additional photos of these projects, visit http://www.mastersdesignbuild.com or contact Brian Martin at: (215) 723-6162.

###

Brian Martin
Master's Design Build Group
(215) 723-6162
Email Information

Here is the original post:
Master’s Craft Construction Named Local and Regional Contractor of the Year

It's a tiny home, but promoters contend it is energy self-sufficient and environmentally green.

Powered by solar panels and propane gas, the 400-square-foot home is designed to eliminate the need for an electric utility connection. It also offers the option of using a "gray water" filtering system and toilets that don't need to be linked to a septic tank or sewer.

The portable "off-the-grid" house is on display in Modesto through Feb. 26.

"Everything is self-contained," said Steven Lefler of Modular Lifestyles Inc., the company promoting the home as an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional housing.

"The cost of building a home on empty land is astronomical because of what it takes to connect to utilities," Lefler said.

That doesn't mean this home is a bargain. It's priced at $69,500 — which works out to $174 per square foot — not counting the cost of land, site preparation or building permits.

By comparison, the median sales price for existing Stanislaus County homes, including the lots they're built on, is about $80 per square foot, according to DataQuick, a real estate research firm.

"This home works in places that have high costs," Lefler said about his so-called green alternative.

The Olive Lane Estates mobile home park hopes a larger version of the home will attract new tenants to its Claus Road community.

"We're set to buy five solar homes, and we'll probably rent them," said Michael Ramsey, Olive Lane's regional manager. The park has five empty spaces, so Ramsey said it is going to install two-bedroom, one-bath homes from Modular Lifestyles in those spots. The first of them is expected to arrive this month.

Lefler said those 784-square-foot homes sell for $60,000. He said they do not have as many features as the smaller home now on display.

Because the two-bedroom homes will not have electricity costs, Ramsey said he expects to rent them for $900 per month.

The average rental rate for traditional two-bedroom, one-bath apartments in Modesto is about $790 per month, but they have an average 847 square feet, according to RealFacts, which tracks rental property trends. Typical renters, however, must pay electric bills in addition to rent.

According to the Modesto Irrigation District, homes with 850 square feet or less pay an average electric bill of $115 per month.

The green homes from Modular Lifestyles are built in Arizona and trucked to California. Lefler said they are considered "green" because they have features such as cork flooring, recycled building materials, LED lighting and energy- efficient appliances.

The water heater, stove, furnace and back-up generator are powered by propane. Propane bills would have to be paid separately.

The 400-square-foot version of the home is available for public tours through Feb. 26 at Olive Lane Estates, 4628 Claus Road, Modesto, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and on weekends by appointment, (209) 551-4294.

Bee staff writer J.N. Sbranti can be reached at jnsbranti@modbee.com or (209) 578-2196.

Read more:
Living off the grid in green home

WASHOE COUNTY, SEPT. 26-30

Crinion Angella Construction: 1070 Lakeshore Blvd., additions and remodel, $105,307.

White Cloud Construction: 210 Waterman Court, single-family dwelling, $272,914.

M B Construction: 11215 Boulder Heights Court, single-family dwelling, $808,531.

Capriotti Construction: 9020 Spearhead Way, garage conversion and addition, $140,040.

Lamonica Construction: 591 Village Blvd., rebuild single-family dwelling, $434,151.

James and Jody Sherman: 190 Quarterhorse Circle, single-family dwelling, $203,063.

Campbell & Sons: 11295 Boulder Glen Way, single-family dwelling, $518,742.

Crinion Angella Construction: 870 Freels Peak Drive, rebuild single-family dwelling, $512,750.

Mark and Sharon Nipp: 14355 Sitting Bull Circle, single-family dwelling, $210,660.

Hamel & Son Construction: 620 Los Gatos Lane, single-family dwelling, $211,318.

M & M Construction: 5764 Indigo Run Drive, single-family dwelling, $484,081.

Lakemont Homes Nevada: 9560 Cordoba Blvd., single-family dwelling, $157,956.

Lakemont Homes Nevada: 9550 Cordoba Blvd., single-family dwelling, $170,239.

R & K Homes: 7285 Hurst Park Road, single-family dwelling, $211,893.

R & K Homes: 7290 Hurst Park Road, single-family dwelling, $212,082.

R & K Homes: 7295 Hurst Park Road, single-family dwelling, $305,447.

R & K Homes: 3715 Jagged Rock Road, single-family dwelling, $238,476.

R & K Homes: 3700 Jagged Rock Road, single-family dwelling, $234,550.

R & K Homes: 7300, 7310 Hurst Park Road, single-family dwellings, $234,550.

R & K Homes: 3705 Jagged Rock Road, single-family dwelling, $309,407.

R & K Homes: 7275 Hurst Park Road, single-family dwelling, $187,564.

R & K Homes: 7265 Hurst Park Road, single-family dwelling, $187,431.

CARSON CITY, SEPT. 26-30

Hunt Group: 1535 Medical Parkway, commercial office, $9,900,000.

Stone Construction: 2209 Birch St., single-family dwelling, $200,000.

SNS Construction Solutions: 1615 Robb Drive, single-family dwelling, $298,127.

RENO, SEPT. 26-OCT. 1

Spracklin Construction: South Center Street, grading and site improvement, $110,000.

Granite Construction: Socrates Drive, site improvement and final grading, $1,286,957.

George T. Escober: 2345 Bristle Wood Court, single-family dwelling, $525,130.

Muncy Wade: 4984 Sierra Pine Drive, single-family dwelling, $600,000.

Sierra General Contractors: 2395 Eagle Bend Trail, single-family dwelling, $500,000.

Silverwing Development: 2100, 2120, 2140, 2180, 2160 Hellaby Lane, single-family dwellings, $122,399.

Silverwing Development: 4597 Keyhaven Drive, single-family dwelling, $122,399.

Silverwing Development: 2170, 2130 Hellaby Lane, single-family dwellings, $150,503.

Silverwing Development: 4597 Keyhaven Drive, single-family dwelling, $150,503.

Silverwing Development: 2110, 2150, 2190 Hellaby Lane, single-family dwellings, $147,172.

Silverwing Development: 2125 Hellaby Lane, single-family dwelling, $109,444.

Silverwing Development: 2135, 2185, 2195 Hellaby Lane, single-family dwellings, $109,444.

Silverwing Development: 2145, 2197 Hellaby Lane, single-family dwelling, $123,416.

K & R Homes: 10595 Hampton Creek Drive, single-family dwelling, $257,447.

K & R Homes: 10565 Hampton Creek Drive, single-family dwelling, $167,902.

K & R Homes: 10585 Dillingham Drive, single-family dwelling, $210,939.

K & R Homes: 10555, 10575 Hampton Creek Drive, single-family dwellings, $210,939.

K & R Homes: 10595, 10560 Dillingham Drive, single-family dwellings, $216,570.

K & R Homes: 1696, 1698 Silverthread Drive, single-family dwellings, $216,570.

K & R Homes: 10585 Hampton Creek Drive, single-family dwelling, $216,570.

Landmark Homes and Development: 5095 Bella Court, single-family dwelling, $248,103.

K & R Homes: 1680, 1663 Sewell Drive, single-family dwellings, $142,782.

K & R Homes: 1680 Ghettis Way, single-family dwellings, $142,782.

K & R Homes: 1664, 1671 Sewell Drive, single-family dwellings, $155,796.

K & R Homes: 1696 Ghettis Way, single-family dwellings, $155,796.

K & R Homes: 1656, 1672, 1688, 1655, 1616, 1623, 1607 Sewell Drive, single-family dwellings, $125,000.

Coleman Toll Limited Partnership: 10855, 10875 Serratina Drive, single-family dwellings, $234,354.

Coleman Toll Limited Partnership: 10865, 10845 Serratina Drive, single-family dwellings, $248,683.

K & R Homes: 1639, 1632 Sewell Drive, single-family dwellings, $155,796.

K & R Homes: 1694 Silverthread Drive, single-family dwellings, $167,902.

K & R Homes: 10550, 10580 Dillingham Drive, single-family dwellings, $257,447.

K & R Homes: 1685 Silverthread Drive, single-family dwellings, $257,447.

K & R Homes: 10565, 10570, 10540 Dillingham Drive, single-family dwellings, $210,939.

K & R Homes: 1695 Silverthread Drive, single-family dwellings, $210,939.

K & R Homes: 1608, 1624, 1640, 1648, 1615 Sewell Drive, single-family dwellings, $142,782.

Altmann Construction: 7544, 7553 Gold Drive, single-family dwellings, $108,008.

Altmann Construction: 7560, 7569 Gold Drive, single-family dwellings, $124,935.

Altmann Construction: 7564, 7552, 7549, 7561 Gold Drive, single-family dwellings, $137,140.

Altmann Construction: 7568, 7556, 7548, 7557, 7565 Gold Drive, single-family dwellings, $146,557.

Greystone Nevada: 7684, 7686, 7692 Corso St., single-family dwellings, $113,580.

Greystone Nevada: 7679 Corso St., single-family dwellings, $134,246.

Greystone Nevada: 7682, 7688 Corso St., single-family dwellings, $148,823.

Greystone Nevada: 7675, 7696 Corso St., single-family dwellings, $153,877.

Pulte Homes of Nevada: 1470, 1490, 1500 Orchard Park Trail, single-family dwellings, $113,791.

Pulte Homes of Nevada: 1400, 1420 Orchard Park Trail, single-family dwellings, $133,451.

Pulte Homes of Nevada: 1440 Meridian Ranch Drive, single-family dwelling, $133,451.

Greystone Nevada: 8190 Opal Station Drive, single-family dwelling, $181,064.

Greystone Nevada: 8195, 8130, 8160, 8210 Opal Station Drive, single-family dwellings, $208,555.

Greystone Nevada: 8180, 8140 Opal Station Drive, single-family dwellings, $235,744.

Greystone Nevada: 8175, 8170, 8150, 8120 Opal Station Drive, single-family dwellings, $262,579.

Silver Star Development: 8105 Willow Ranch Trail, single-family dwelling, $175,185.

Sierra Signature Homes: 5045 Hitch Road, single-family dwelling, $151,260.

Sierra Signature Homes: 5025 Coggins Road, single-family dwelling, $167,820.

Sierra Signature Homes: 5035, 5065, 5060 Hitch Road, single-family dwellings, $139,680.

Sierra Signature Homes: 5060 Coggins Road, single-family dwelling, $130,920.

Sierra Signature Homes: 5055 Hitch Road, single-family dwelling, $130,920.

Greystone Nevada: 7676 Corso St., single-family dwelling, $134,246.

Greystone Nevada: 7667 Corso St., single-family dwelling, $148,823.

Greystone Nevada: 7663, 7668 Corso St., single-family dwellings, $153,877.

Landmark Homes and Development: 5360 Bellazza Court, single-family dwelling, $261,650.

Greystone Nevada: 3575, 3555, 3525, 3560 Rock Ridge Court, single-family dwelling, $262,579.

Greystone Nevada: 3565, 3545, 3570 Rock Ridge Court, single-family dwelling, $242,717.

Greystone Nevada: 3585, 3535, 3580 Rock Ridge Court, single-family dwelling, $208,555.

Greystone Nevada: 3595 Rock Ridge Court, single-family dwelling, $181,064.

Greystone Nevada: 940 University Park Loop, single-family dwelling, $181,064.

Forum Construction Management: 11017 Lamour Lane, single-family dwelling, $118,941.

Forum Construction Management: 1840 Stetson Drive, single-family dwelling, $122,846.

Forum Construction Management: 1830 Stetson Drive, single-family dwelling, $124,324.

Altmann Construction: 7537 Gold Drive, single-family dwelling, $108,008.

Altmann Construction: 650, 639, 647 Beckwourth Drive, single-family dwellings, $137,140.

Altmann Construction: 7540, 7541 Gold Drive, single-family dwellings, $137,140.

Altmann Construction: 646, 643, 651 Beckwourth Drive, single-family dwellings, $146,557.

Altmann Construction: 7536, 7532, 7533, 7545 Gold Drive, single-family dwellings, $146,557.

Lennar Family of Builders: 650 Aberdeen Court, single-family dwelling, $183,388.

Pulte Homes of Nevada: 1530 Orchard Park Trail, single-family dwelling, $111,760.

Pulte Homes of Nevada: 1495, 1540, 1550 Orchard Park Trail, single-family dwellings, $124,313.

Pulte Homes of Nevada: 1510, 1570 Orchard Park Trail, single-family dwellings, $144,085.

Pulte Homes of Nevada: 1560 Orchard Park Trail, single-family dwelling, $168,670.

Lakemont Homes Nevada: 3218 Diamond Ridge Drive, single-family dwelling, $274,547.

Lakemont Homes Nevada: 3224 Diamond Ridge Drive, single-family dwelling, $236,123.

Silver Star Development: 3295 Covent Garden, single-family dwelling, $151,556.

Silver Star Development: 1390, 1370, 1320, 1330, 1350 Waterloo Road, single-family dwellings, $151,556.

Silver Star Development: 3280 Covent Garden, single-family dwelling, $173,494.

Silver Star Development: 1375, 1310, 1340, 1325, 1305 Waterloo Road, single-family dwellings, $173,494.

Silver Star Development: 3290, 3270 Covent Garden, single-family dwellings, $211,493.

Silver Star Development: 1380, 1360, 1345 Waterloo Road, single-family dwellings, $211,493.

Coleman Toll Limited Partnership: 10765, 10800, 10780 Serratina Drive, single-family dwellings, $234,354.

Coleman Toll Limited Partnership: 10820, 10760 Serratina Drive, single-family dwellings, $262,657.

Coleman Toll Limited Partnership: 10810, 10755, 10790, 10750, 10770 Serratina Drive, single-family dwellings, $248,683.

Silverwing Development: 2145, 2170 Stanton Lane, single-family dwellings, $123,416.

Silverwing Development: 2125, 2135. 2185, 2198, 2194, 2190, 2180, 2120, 2130 Stanton Lane, single-family dwellings, $109,444.

Silverwing Development: 4595 Keyhaven Drive, single-family dwelling, $147,172.

Silverwing Development: 4585 Keyhaven Drive, single-family dwelling, $122,399.

Centex Homes: 9110, 9040, 9105, 9145 Red Baron Blvd., single-family dwellings, $102,915.

Centex Homes: 8805, 8812 Silverkist Drive, single-family dwellings, $102,915.

Centex Homes: 7430 Red Baron Court, single-family dwelling, $102,915.

Centex Homes: 9140, 9090, 9160, 9030, 9135 Red Baron Blvd., single-family dwellings, $132,627.

Centex Homes: 8804 Silverkist Drive, single-family dwelling, $132,627.

Centex Homes: 7455, 7440 Red Baron Court, single-family dwellings, $132,627.

Centex Homes: 9130, 9080, 9120, 9095, 9115 Red Baron Blvd., single-family dwellings, $137,236.

Centex Homes: 8809 Silverkist Drive, single-family dwelling, $137,236.

Pulte Homes of Nevada: 9110 Heritage Ridge Court, single-family dwelling, $170,527.

Landmark Homes and Development: 5240 Belsera Court, single-family dwelling, $279,487.

Centex Homes: 10870 Crooked Canyon Drive, single-family dwelling, $149,673.

Homecrafters: 1935 Dakota Ridge Trail, single-family dwelling, $246,000.??

More here:
Building permits for week of Oct. 10

“We’re looking for basement remodeling, support, a portico for the front door and a shower door,” Jim Guest said as he pored over samples and photos in the booth of Freedom Works Building and Remodeling Inc., an Odenton firm. Using a photo album, the CEO of the 22-year-old firm, Rick Oliver, pointed out the details of a wood-paneled wet bar.

 

A few booths away, Billy Derian, host of the DIY Network’s “Extra Yardage” show, startled landscape architect and illustrator Paul LeVine, of Finksburg, when he dropped by LeVine’s Landscape Designs booth and began leafing through his illustrated designs.

“These are good,” Derian murmured as several of his fans stopped and gawked.

Derian was scheduled to present a seminar on landscaping at noon. For a few minutes, he stood outside the lecture room and listened to WTOP radio’s garden editor, Mike McGrath, talk about composting and the American lifestyle. “Using a leaf blower is the perfect American occupation,” McGrath declared to knowing chuckles from his audience. “You create a lot of noise but accomplish little.”

He went on to talk about how to create the perfect compost — one that does not involve using any commercial products.

In the main exhibit hall, visitors buzzed among nearly seven dozen booths whose smiling representatives stood ready to discuss and demonstrate a rainbow of items from kitchen cutlery, cookware, countertops and appliances, to rooftop solar panels, fencing, awnings, gutters, driveways and closet organizers.

“We do this show every year,” said Zachary S. Carrubba, 29. His in-laws own Maryland Shower Enclosures, based in Annapolis. He’s worked for the 15-year-old company since he graduated from South River High School. “We’ll probably sell 15 to 25 jobs at this show. I love doing them,” he said, showing off one of the company’s glass shower doors.

Carrubba also does a little shopping at the expo.

“I bought insulation one year from Summit Insulation, another regular exhibitor. He bought a shower door from me,” Carrubba said.

Brad Leahy, representing Blades of Green, a lawn care and pest control service, was using bright yellow flyswatters to lure potential customers to his booth.

“This is the best show we do,” he said. “Last year, we picked up a lot of new customers and several regular customers dropped by, too. We did so well last year, instead of being here for just one weekend, we booked both weekends this year.”

Expo celebs

Dr. Lori Verderame, whose syndicated column appears in The Capital and in 93 other publications, and appears on Discovery Channel’s reality show, “Auction Kings,” will conduct appraisals at the expo during her “What It’s Worth” presentations at noon, 2 and 3?p.m. today. Audience members can bring one item for appraisal.

“If you have five more items, bring five friends,” Verderame advised. This is one of more than 100 personal appearances she is scheduled to make this year.

“I’ve been to the Home Show in Annapolis several times. We do appraisals and laugh,” the Pennsylvania resident said. “Last year, someone brought in a Pairpoint reverse painted lamp, dating from the 1880s to 1910. It is worth over $40,000. One man brought in blueprints of the Jefferson Memorial in D.C. His father had worked on it in the ‘30s and ‘40s.”

In a phone interview, Verderame said she’ll appraise anything except firearms. Her appraisals are done on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants sit in the audience and await their turn while Verderame lectures and conducts appraisals.

“We help people identify how markets work. How they can get the most money out of things and not give it all away at a yard sale,” she said.

“Anyone who is appraising your objects should not have a financial interest in your object. They might not give you an accurate appraisal if they are going to buy it from you to sell later. One woman I met sold a document to an appraiser for a few dollars. He resold it for $50,000.”

One last bit of advice from Verderame before the show: “Typically, an object your mother said to protect because it has family history is something you should protect. Two sisters in Virginia Beach had a family heirloom, a painting, they didn’t like. It turned out to be worth $150,000.”

Another celebrity appearing at the show is Damon Bennett. A regular on HGTV’s “Holmes Inspections,” Bennett left a home renovation project in Toronto on Friday and took an evening flight to appear at the Home Expo yesterday. It was his first visit to Annapolis and his fifth public appearance at a home show.

“There are no actors on the show,” the contractor said. “Mike Holmes and I are hands-on people. We do all the work and the bags under our eyes should show it.”

Bennett, 40, has been doing home improvements since he was 12. He met Holmes eight years ago, and the two have worked together since then.

Bennett planned to advise audience members on questions they need to ask a home inspector before purchasing a house. Among them: “Do you see any signs of mold? How does the basement look? Do you see any cracks or signs of settling? Do you have an infrared camera? It’s an expensive tool, but it looks behind walls without tearing them up and can ‘see’ moisture readings and missing insulation. Is the electrical OK? How long will it last?”

“There are a lot of good home inspectors in the world, but on our show we see the worst of the worst in the greater Toronto area,” he said.

“Thousands of emails come in every week from people asking for help. We go through and pick the worst, the most troubled ones that home inspectors really screwed up. We’re not out to attack home inspectors or contractors, but we’re trying to make the public aware of what to look for in a home inspection. Education is important.”

 

For information and a complete vendor listing, visit http://www.MidAtlanticExpos.com.

Wendi Winters is a freelance writer based on the Broadneck Peninsula.

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Home Expo’s experts draw crowds

Construction of a federal office building on Fourth Avenue North could spawn a renaissance in the industrial area running between downtown Billings and MetraPark.

One effort is already well under way.

Red Oxx Manufacturing Inc., a maker and worldwide distributor of rugged travel luggage, has gutted a dilapidated factory at 1123 Second Ave. N.

The building permit prices the project at $510,500, but Red Oxx’s owners have easily blown past that figure trying to make their future production facility as attractive and as energy efficient as possible.

“It’s over a $1 million project,” said co-owner Jim Markel. “It’s going to have a lifespan of another 100 years when we’re done with it.”

After the factory opens this spring, Red Oxx will operate from two locations, including its nearby store at 310 N. 13th St.

The demolition of the factory is complete down to the floor slab and four walls. The leaky windows are being knocked out and the skylights go in this week.

“It was horrific. There was no redeeming architectural character in that building whatsoever,” Markel said.

When completed, the old warehouse should win Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification as an energy-efficient building. The luggage company also is following the landscaping and diagonal parking code requirements being adopted for the East Billings Urban Renewal District.

“I think their building will be watched for quality and as a good example of transformation in the EBURD,” said architect Dennis Deppmeier.

Markel said he is “super stoked” to see the federal General Services Administration office building go up six blocks from the business he started with his partner, Perry Jones. Unlike the design of the James F. Battin federal courthouse, the GSA design is versatile and can be used for some other purpose someday, Markel said.

Revitalization is a slow process.

So far along First Avenue North, Kairos Development spent $3.5 million remodeling the former Pierce Packing Plant building with more work coming; O’Reilly Auto Parts completed a new building; and Billings Marble & Granite remodeled its space, among other improvements.

Other new construction in the renewal district includes the Rocky Mountain Professional Building with Turley Dental offices, the Billings Food Bank on Fourth Avenue North and First Interstate Bank’s operations center on Sixth Avenue North.

“When First Interstate decided to invest that heavily in the area, it was a signal for a small businesses like us to do the same,” Markel said.

After Red Oxx workers move into the 12,500 square-foot factory in May, Markel and Jones will start plans to develop the vacant half block at the corner of Fourth Avenue North and North 13th Street just north of their store.

“We might build to suit with live (living quarters) above,” Markel said. “We could start that this summer.”

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Red Oxx refurbishing structure to add production space

wwltv.com

Posted on February 18, 2012 at 10:25 PM

Updated today at 10:25 PM

Monica Hernandez / Eyewitness News

NEW ORLEANS - Heavy wind and rain pounded into tents set up along the Endymion route Saturday afternoon, pushing the parade back over an hour. But die-hard revelers continued to stake out their spot and make the most of it. Some made a make shift "Slip 'n' Slide" out of a blue tarp. Other played soccer on the neutral ground or danced beneath porches.

 Some huddled together beneath lowered tents.

"We got family, we got shelter, we got food, we [are] good," said Lynn Cochran, of Gonzales.

And then came the parade that thousands braved the weather for. With 2,500 members and massive floats, revelers said they didn't mind the spotty showers as as the parade began. 

"I got my survival kit and my poncho and my drink. I'm good, I'm good, this is wonderful. I've got beads, this is my first one, my very first Mardi Gras catch, so I'm very excited about that," said Angela Martinez, from Houston, pointing to her first set of beads.

"We rode our bikes, we got soaked, threw our stuff in the drier, and now we're here," said Sarah Hubley, of Mid-City.

Mid-City neighbors said they're relieved the area's only parade rolled despite the rain. Last year, wet weather pushed the event back to Sunday, when it rolled Uptown behind Bacchus.

"Endymion's the best parade of the season and that's why I'm out here in the freezing weather," said Tricia Schiro, of Metairie.

And so, thousands lined the Mid-City cheering, catching throws, and enjoying the spirit of carnival.

"The state of Louisiana has a lot to offer, happy Mardi Gras, nothing but fun," said Walter Falls, of New Orleans.

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Parade goers say watching Endymion was worth getting drenched

For more than a century, members of the United Protestant Church have helped their fellow townspeople.

Now, they say, they could use some help.

The church basement sustained heavy damage in 2009, when the nearby Sterling Pond section of the Moosup River overflowed because of heavy March rain. It sent water cascading across Church Street into the small church. The water was removed from the basement, but it had damaged the floor enough that the wood had to be removed.

The floodwaters also left heavy mold about 2 feet high on the basement walls, which also had to be ripped out.

“The walls were built with tongue-in-groove boards that were heavily nailed together,” church member Bruce Glaude said. “That made it difficult to remove the damaged boards without causing some harm to the remaining sections of wall.”

Pastor Bonni Piccione said church leaders were unaware they could have applied to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for assistance until the application deadline had passed. She said the church also did not have flood insurance.

Glaude said he hopes the church will be able to pour a new concrete floor in the basement and is looking for donations of wood, especially two-by-fours and drywall to fix the basement walls.

“If contractors have wood left over from jobs and would be willing to donate it to the church, we’d be truly grateful,” Glaude said.

He said workmen are scheduled to overhaul the furnace in the basement this week, including redesigning the heating system to create separate zones for the basement and the sanctuary on the main floor of the church. Presently, the sanctuary has only a large grate in the floor near the pulpit where heat rises from the basement.

“Sometimes we all gather as close to the vent as possible for our worship services,” Piccione said with a laugh.

The United Protestant Church has been part of Sterling for 115 years, opening for worship services and other gatherings in 1896 on land donated for its construction two years earlier. In its early days, it was a vital part of the Sterling village community, members say.

Church treasurer Mary Brown said a history of the church indicates it has a lengthy record of helping local causes.

“Our church donated money to help with the construction of St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church next door,” Brown said.

St. Joseph was among several churches closed in 2009 by the Diocese of Norwich. A “for sale” sign now sits on the front lawn of the church.

Piccione said the small congregation of about 25 members, 20 of whom are active, knits mittens, gloves and hats for local schoolchildren each year, contributes to food drives at Project PIN, the food bank that serves the Plainfield-Sterling area, and helps in other community causes.

If funds can be raised, Piccione said, the congregation wants to refurbish the kitchen in the basement so it can serve suppers again and host other fundraisers.

“We’d also be able to offer our basement facilities to community groups such as Boy Scout or Girl Scout troops or other organizations looking for a place to call home,” Piccione said.

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Sterling church seeks help with basement repairs

EAST HAVEN, CT (WFSB) -

East Haven police are investigating a burglary that happened late Saturday morning.

Police said a homeowner arrived at her house shortly before 11:30 a.m. to find three men on her property. Police said the strangers told her a neighbor said she needed new gutters.

Police said the woman threatened to call police and the men left.

The rear cellar door of the house had been forced open, according to police, but nothing was taken.

Police said the same men knocked on other doors in the area, asking if people needed work done.

They were in a cargo-style truck which said "ROOFING" in with black lettering on both sides. Police said it's unclear if the men were actually roofers or just posing as such. The truck was last seen traveling into New Haven from Laurel Street onto Eastern Street, according to police.

Anyone with information is asked to call East Haven police.

Copyright 2012 WFSB (Meredith Corporation.) All rights reserved.

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Men in roofing truck suspected of entering East Haven home

By Drew Davison

ddavison@star-telegram.com

Atlanta Braves

Spring site: Lake Buena VistaLast year: 89-73 (second)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (Monday), full squad (Saturday)Who's in: INF Jack Wilson (Seattle)Who's out: RHP Derek Lowe (Cleveland), CF Nate McLouth (Pittsburgh), SS Alex Gonzalez (Milwaukee), RHP Scott Linebrink (St. Louis), LHP George Sherrill (Seattle)Spring outlook: Most people remember the Boston Red Sox's late collapse last season, but few recall that the Braves had a similar one. They blew an 8 1/2-game lead in the wild-card race the final month of the season to miss the playoffs. The roster remains relatively intact from last season, although prospect Tyler Pastornicky is expected to be the starting shortstop.Baltimore OriolesSpring site: SarasotaLast year: 69-93 (fifth)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (today), full squad (Friday)Who's in: RHP Jason Hammel (Colorado), RHP Matt Lindstrom (Colorado), Luis Ayala (New York Yankees), LHP Wei-Yin Chen (Japan), OF Endy Chavez (Texas), LHP Dana Eveland (Los Angeles Dodgers), DH Wilson Betemit (Detroit)Who's out: RHP Jeremy Guthrie (Colorado), OF/DH Luke Scott (Tampa Bay)Spring outlook: There's not too much optimism that the Orioles can contend in the AL East. They traded away an innings-eater starter from last season (Guthrie), and are relying on a young staff led by Weatherford graduate Zach Britton, TCU's Jake Arrieta and former Ranger Tommy Hunter. Offensively, the Orioles' biggest threats are outfielders Nick Markakis and Adam Jones and catcher Matt Wieters.Boston Red SoxSpring site: Fort MyersLast year: 90-72 (third)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (Tuesday), full squad (Saturday)Who's in: RHP Andrew Bailey (Oakland), OF Cody Ross (San Francisco), OF Ryan Sweeney (Oakland), RHP Mark Melancon (Houston), C Kelly Shoppach (Tampa Bay), OF Nick Punto (St. Louis)Who's out: RHP Jonathan Papelbon (Philadelphia), RF J.D. Drew (FA), SS Marco Scutaro (Colorado), SS Jed Lowrie (Houston), OF Josh Reddick (Oakland)Spring outlook: The historic September collapse led to several changes within the Red Sox organization. They have a new GM, Ben Cherington, and manager, Bobby Valentine. Boston then made a splash on the trade market for closer Andrew Bailey. Still, the majority of the core players remain the same, headlined by Jon Lester, Josh Beckett and Clay Buchholz leading the rotation. Offensively, the Red Sox have one of the best lineups with Jacoby Ellsbury, Dustin Pedroia and Adrian Gonzalez as the 1-2-3 hitters.Detroit TigersSpring site: LakelandLast year: 95-67 (first)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (Monday), full squad (Friday)Who's in: 1B Prince Fielder (Milwaukee), RHP Octavio Dotel (St. Louis), C Gerald Laird (St. Louis)Who's out: OF Magglio Ordonez (FA), INF Carlos Guillen (Seattle), RHP Brad Penny (Japan), 3B Wilson Betemit (Baltimore)Spring outlook: The Tigers solidified themselves as World Series contenders by signing Prince Fielder in the off-season. With Fielder and Miguel Cabrera, they might have the most potent 1-2 punch of any lineup. The pitching staff is set, too, with Justin Verlander and Doug Fister leading the rotation, and Jose Valverde and Joaquin Benoit at the backend of the bullpen.Houston AstrosSpring site: KissimmeeLast year: 56-106 (sixth)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (Monday), full squad (Feb. 26)Who's in: OF Jack Cust (Seattle), C Chris Snyder (Pittsburgh), RHP Kyle Weiland (Boston), INF Jed Lowrie (Boston)Who's out: SS Clint Barmes(Pittsburgh), RHP Mark Melancon (Boston)Spring outlook: The Astros lost a franchise-record 106 games last season and could be on their way to another triple-digit-loss season. They remain in rebuilding mode, and they will give young players a chance to compete for starting spots.Miami MarlinsSpring site: JupiterLast year: 72-90 (fifth)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (Thursday), full squad (Feb. 27)Who's in: SS Jose Reyes (New York Mets), LHP Mark Buehrle (Chicago White Sox), RHP Heath Bell (San Diego), RHP Carlos Zambrano (Chicago Cubs), LHP Wade LeBlanc (San Diego)Who's out: RHP Chris Volstad (Chicago Cubs), RHP Javier Vazquez (retired), RHP Burke Badenhop (Tampa Bay), RHP Clay Hensley (San Francisco), RHP Brian Sanches (Philadelphia), C John Baker (San Diego)Spring outlook: The Marlins have a new look, from their logo to their stadium to their manager. They made some of the biggest signings at the winter meetings, bringing in shortstop Jose Reyes, left-hander Mark Buehrle and closer Heath Bell. The Reyes signing forces Hanley Ramirez to move to third. Miami also traded for enigmatic right-hander Carlos Zambrano. In all, Ozzie Guillen and the Marlins will be one of the more interesting teams to watch this season.Minnesota TwinsSpring site: Fort MyersLast year: 63-99 (fifth)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (today), full squad(Friday)Who's in: OF Josh Willingham (Oakland), SS Jamey Carroll (Los Angeles Dodgers), OF/ DH Ryan Doumit (Pittsburgh), RHP Joel Zumaya (Detroit)Who's out: OF Michael Cuddyer (Colorado), OF Jason Kubel (Arizona), RHP Joe Nathan (Texas)Spring outlook: The Twins were expected to contend in the AL Central last season, but their season unraveled with injuries and disappointing seasons. They didn't make any significant upgrades and saw veterans Michael Cuddyer, Jason Kubel and Joe Nathan sign elsewhere. The key for Minnesota will be Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau rebounding from sub-par seasons.New York MetsSpring site: Port St. LucieLast year: 77-85 (fourth)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (Wednesday), full squad (Feb. 27)Who's in: OF Andres Torres (San Francisco), RHP Frank Francisco (Toronto), RHP Jon Rauch (Toronto), RHP Ramon Ramirez (San Francisco), SS Ronny Cedeno (Pittsburgh)Who's out: SS Jose Reyes (Miami), OF Angel Pagan (San Francisco), LHP Chris Capuano (Los Angeles Dodgers), RHP Jason Isringhausen (FA), RHP Ryota Igarashi (Pittsburgh), OF Willie Harris (Cincinnati), OF Nick Evans (Pittsburgh)Spring outlook: The Mets had a better-than-expected season last year and still finished fourth in the NL East. They didn't do much to improve, either. Instead, the Mets are hoping David Wright, Johan Santana, Ike Davis and Jason Bay all return to form and play up to their potential.New York YankeesSpring site: TampaLast year: 97-65 (first)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (Monday), full squad (Saturday)Who's in: RHP Hiroki Kuroda (Los Angeles Dodgers), RHP Michael Pineda (Seattle)Who's out: RHP Bartolo Colon (Oakland), OF Greg Golson (Kansas City), RHP Sergio Mitre (FA), C/DH Jesus Montero (Seattle), RHP Hector Noesi (Seattle), C/DH Jorge Posada (retired)Spring outlook: The Yankees won the most games in the American League last season and return most of their core. They improved their rotation, too, signing Hiroki Kuroda and trading for promising right-hander Michael Pineda in exchange for top hitting prospect Jesus Montero. Offensively, the Yankees are hoping Alex Rodriguez bounces back and Mark Teixeira hits for a better average.Philadelphia PhilliesSpring site: ClearwaterLast year: 102-60 (first)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (today), full squad(Friday)Who's in: OF/1B Laynce Nix (Washington), RHP Jonathan Papelbon (Boston), RHP Chad Qualls (San Diego), PH/1B Jim Thome (Cleveland), 3B/1B Ty Wigginton (Colorado), LHP Dontrelle Willis (Cincinnati)Who's out: LF Raul Ibanez (FA), RHP Brad Lidge (Washington), RHP Ryan Madson (Cincinnati), RHP Roy Oswalt (FA)Spring outlook: The Phillies won more games than any team last season but faltered in the playoffs. They still have arguably the best rotation in baseball led by Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels. The bullpen improved with the signing of Jonathan Papelbon, although the offense could struggle with Ryan Howard (Achilles' surgery) out for at least the first month of the season.Pittsburgh PiratesSpring site: BradentonLast year: 72-90 (fourth)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (today), full squad(Friday)Who's in: RHP A.J. Burnett(New York Yankees), LHP Erik Bedard (Boston), SS Clint Barmes (Houston), INF Casey McGehee (Milwaukee), C Rod Barajas (Los Angeles Dodgers), OF Nate McLouth (Atlanta)Who's out: SS Ronny Cedeno (New York Mets), RHP Ross Ohlendorf (Boston), RHP Jose Veras (Milwaukee), C Ryan Doumit (Minnesota), C Chris Snyder (Houston), 1B Derrek Lee (FA), OF Ryan Ludwick (Cincinnati), LHP Paul Maholm (Chicago Cubs)Spring outlook: The Pirates were a feel-good story midway through last season and in contention, but then faded away in the second half. They are trying to become legitimate contenders, though, and hope the rotation has improved with the additions of A.J. Burnett and Erik Bedard. Offensively, Pittsburgh traded for infielder Casey McGehee to be a presence in the middle of the lineup.St. Louis CardinalsSpring site: JupiterLast year: 90-72 (second)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (today), full squad(Friday)Who's in: OF Carlos Beltran(San Francisco), LHP J.C. Romero (Colorado)Who's out: 1B Albert Pujols (Los Angeles Angels), RHP Octavio Dotel (Detroit), RHP Edwin Jackson (Washington), INF Nick Punto (Boston), INF Ryan Theriot (San Francisco)Spring outlook: The reigning World Series champions will be missing some familiar faces at spring training. Star slugger Albert Pujols signed with the Angels, and manager Tony La Russa retired. The Cardinals expect to contend again this season, especially with Adam Wainwright returning from Tommy John elbow surgery. Chris Carpenter is back in the rotation as well, and David Freese will look to build off his magical postseason.Tampa Bay RaysSpring site: Port CharlotteLast year: 91-71 (second)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (Tuesday), full squad (Feb. 26)Who's in: DH Luke Scott (Baltimore), 1B Carlos Pena (Chicago Cubs), INF Jeff Keppinger (San Francisco), RHP Burke Badenhop (Miami), C Jose Molina (Toronto), RHP Josh Lueke (Seattle), RHP Fernando Rodney (Los Angeles Angels)Who's out: C Kelly Shoppach (Boston), 1B Dan Johnson (Chicago White Sox), DH Johnny Damon (FA), 1B Casey Kotchman (Cleveland), C John Jaso (Seattle), RHP Juan Cruz (Pittsburgh), RHP Andy Sonnanstine (Chicago Cubs), OF Justin Ruggiano (Houston)Spring outlook: The Rays, thanks to a historic Red Sox collapse, made a run to the postseason last year, and then were knocked out by the Rangers. Tampa Bay returns most of its young core and has a talented young rotation with James Shields, David Price, Jeremy Hellickson and Matt Moore. The lineup improved with Carlos Pena returning to the Rays as well.Toronto Blue JaysSpring site: DunedinLast year: 81-81 (fourth)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (Wednesday), full squad (Saturday)Who's in: LHP Darren Oliver (Texas), RHP Sergio Santos(Chicago White Sox), RHP Francisco Cordero (Cincinnati), C Jeff Mathis (Los Angeles Angels)Who's out: RHP Frank Francisco (New York Mets), RHP Jon Rauch (New York Mets), RHP Shawn Camp (Seattle), C Jose Molina (Tampa Bay)Spring outlook: The Blue Jays hope that experience is the key to success, as they return all position starters and the five-man rotation from 2011. Jose Bautista remains their biggest offensive threat, and Ricky Romero is the ace of the rotation.Washington NationalsSpring site: VieraLast year: 80-81 (third)First workouts: Pitchers and catchers (Monday), full squad (Saturday)Who's in: LHP Gio Gonzalez (Oakland), RHP Brad Lidge (Philadelphia), RHP Edwin Jackson (St. Louis), OF Mike Cameron (Florida), INF/OF Mark DeRosa (San Francisco), RHP Ryan Perry (Detroit)Who's out: OF Jonny Gomes (Oakland), Brian Bixler (Houston), INF Alex Cora (St. Louis), RHP Livan Hernandez (Houston), OF Laynce Nix (Philadelphia), C Ivan Rodriguez (FA), LHP Doug Slaten (Pittsburgh)Spring outlook: The Nationals could contend. They upgraded their rotation by trading for Gio Gonzalez and signing Edwin Jackson and will have a healthy Stephen Strasburg. The bullpen is solid with closer Drew Storen and setup men Tyler Clippard and Brad Lidge. Offensively, the Nats will need better seasons by Jayson Werth and Adam LaRoche.

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Spring training preview for Grapefruit League teams