TRENTON, N.J. - The home-improvement contractor who has been in legal "hot water" for more than a year pleaded guilty on Tuesday for stealing more than $75,000 from clients.

Edward Humphrey - also known to his victims as "Fast Eddy" - stole money from clients, including a church in North Jersey and failing to perform the work for which he was paid.

Fast Eddy, 41, pleaded guilty to second-degree theft by deception.

He will be sentenced on Aug. 3. Humphrey faces a sentence between three and five years in state prison. He also is ordered to pay $188,000 in restitution.

Humphrey has previously admitted to consulting with clients between March 8 and Sept. 7, 2005, taking deposit checks and failing to perform the work.

Colorado connection

Del Benson loves living in the foothills of Fort Collins. He spent a lot of time making his Fort Collins home just right. After living there for 11 years, it was time make some repairs.

When Benson decided to participate in an energy study so his home improvements would be paid for, he ended up getting more than he bargained for. An independent contractor hired indirectly for his construction work is accused of doing a poor job, not finishing his work and having a track record of doing this repeatedly across the country. He's on probation in Florida, indicted in New Jersey and under investigation in California.

But Benson and others didn't know anything about that when "Fast Eddy" started working on the Ft. Collins home.

Benson's home repairs gone wrong

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'Fast Eddy' pleads guilty to stealing thousands

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Leading luxury destination club Inspirato has announced the release of 19 new members-only vacation residences, including the addition of 10 new multimillion-dollar, single-family homes to the clubs Signature Residences portfolio for which they are known. Beachfront properties in Laguna/Dana Point and Newport Coast, Calif., a six-bedroom Nantucket estate, and a four-acre, ocean-view home in Kapalua, Hawaii are among the new Signature Residences.

Our Signature Residences are what set Inspirato apart from other destination clubs and provide our members the extraordinary vacations they are looking for, said Brian Corbett, Founder and Chief Experience Officer for Inspirato. This release includes some of our most exceptional properties so far and they are a direct response to what our members have told us they want, which is the primary factor we consider when selecting new homes.

Inspiratos latest release also includes three new hotel partners Trump International Hotel & Tower Toronto; Trump International Hotel & Tower New York; and The Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge in Telluride, Colo. Inspirato members can now also book vacations in six new destinations, including Hilton Head Island, S.C.; Laguna/Dana Point, Calif.; Squaw Valley, Calif.; San Francisco, Calif.; Kapalua, Hawaii; and Toronto, Canada.

Earlier this month, Inspirato released a new, seasonal residence at the Metropolitan London just in time for the Summer Olympic Games.

This latest expansion represents approximately $50 million in combined real estate value joining Inspiratos ever-growing vacation portfolio now totaling more than $340 million.

The clubs new Signature Residences include:

Laguna/Dana Point, Calif. This beachfront home is set on two lots in the desirable Capistrano Bay community and features floor-to-ceiling folding glass doors that open on to an oceanfront deck.

San Francisco, Calif. Inspiratos new 3,800-square-foot row house in downtown San Francisco features a backyard with a lush garden and fire pit and a private balcony with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Palace of Fine Arts.

Squaw Valley, Calif. Tucked in a grove of towering pine trees at the end of a cul-de-sac, but just a few minutes from the Resort at Squaw Creek, this residence reflects its gorgeous alpine setting in an elegant fashion.

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Inspirato Unveils New Residences in One of Its Largest Expansions to Date

MANILA, 1 November International Boxing Federation (IBF) super bantamweight titlist Manny Pacquiao floored Thai mandatory challenger Fabbrakob Rakkiatgym four times in the first round and retained his crown in just 160 seconds into their scheduled 12-round title fight at the Rizal Memorial College gym in Davao.

Referee Bruce McTavish of New Zealand halted the bout at the 2:46 mark after the Thai kissed the canvas for the fourth time, a victim of a non-stop blitz mounted by the Filipino champ before a packed crowd of nearly 3,000. A mean right cross by Pacquiao that caught Rakkiatgym while he was backing up to avoid a left started the end for the Thai fighter, who first hit the deck halfway through the round. Although he managed to beat the count, it was clear his eyes were glassy and his legs wobbled.

Sensing blood, Pacquiao, 23, went for the kill, throwing a variety of punches to the head and body of the dazed challenger who tried to cover up, in vain.

The Filipino champ landed more or less 20 punches in that barrage, his last, a right, felling the Thai for the fourth and last time. Even before the Thai, 27, hit the deck, McTavis stopped the fight.

Reyes settles for runner-up

finish in Masters

Efren Bata Reyes bowed to German Ralf Souquet, 9-4, in the finals of the 2002 World Pool Masters at the Woughton Center in Milton Keynes, England.

The Filipino ace settled for the second prize of $7,000 (364,000 pesos) while Souquet, who took a record fourth masters crown, pocketed $15,000 (780,000 pesos).

Against Souquet, Reyes was never in his element. Though he took the first rack, Reyes started missing his pot shots, allowing the German to surge ahead at 4-1. Reyes took the next rack when Souquet missed a Masse shot, but the Filipino scratched and Souquet proceeded to clinch the match.

Reyes downed Nick Van Den Berg of Holland in the quarterfinals and Fabio Petroni of Italy in the semifinals.

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Pacquiao decks Thai in 1st round

Rochester, NY (PRWEB) May 29, 2012

Is your home making you sick? Ordinary household mold can pose severe health risks for New York residents, according to EnviroTech, an environmental services company that specializes in professional mold remediation services.

"With the unusually mild winter and early onset of warm spring weather in upstate New York, weve seen a big increase in the number of mold-related telephone calls, says Steven Nardozzi, President of Operations for EnviroTech. Its important for homeowners to address a mold problem early, before it has a chance to spread and turn into a major health issue."

EnviroTech website says some common household molds can be particularly unsafe for young children, the elderly, people with allergies, or anyone with asthma or other difficulties breathing. Symptoms can include runny or stuffy nose, coughing, sore throat, sneezing, and watery eyes. More severe cases of household mold can trigger asthmatic episodes or allergic reactions.

The mold removal process itself is pretty straightforward, Nardozzi explained. We dont just dry out the walls. We use Infra-Red imaging, moisture mechanics, air flow analysis, and other diagnostic tools which allow us to see deep into walls and find problems that may not be evident during a visual inspection.

EnviroTech says once the mold is removed and the source of the moisture is treated, the result is a safer, healthier living environment. Bottom line our stuffy noses are gone, says Tony, a homeowner in upstate New York who recently called EnviroTech about his mold problem. We couldnt be happier with the service we received from EnviroTech.

To learn more about EnviroTechs professional mold remediation process, visit http://www.naturallythebest.com/mold or call EnviroTech at (855) 438-3684 to schedule a free mold inspection.

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Mold Removal Expert Warns of Dangers to Public Health for Upstate New York

WOBURN, MA--(Marketwire -05/29/12)- With summer just around the corner, thoughts of remodeling that old bathroom, adding a splash of color to outdated paint and replacing drafty windows are top of mind for many homeowners. With May being National Home Improvement Month, there is no better time than the present to start planning!

But, as ambitious homeowners begin to assess their homes and immediate needs, the list of repairs and desired renovations can become daunting; from paint and fixtures to floors and bedrooms, giving your home a "makeover" can become a tiresome and costly endeavor.

College Pro Painters, the largest student-run painting company in the US and Canada, has been simplifying home beautification for over 40 years now... and they have learned a few things along the way. Here are some tips College Pro offers for planning your next home renovation:

Know the WHY. What's driving the home renovation bug in you? Are you contemplating selling your home and looking to increase value or curb appeal? Do you need to accommodate a growing family or perhaps looking to downsize after your children have "left the nest?" Or maybe your home just needs a little "push" into the modern world (time to get rid of that '70s inspired wallpaper)? If you are aware of and prioritize your home goals ahead of time, planning the "next steps" will be much easier.

Research Products and Service Providers. Once you've decided on what you're going to do, you now have to research the how. More and more, home owners are opting for a "DIY" strategy. This can be a great option for the enthusiastic homeowner, but be sure you're aware of the skill and time needed to accomplish your task; many homeowners underestimate these basic constraints and end up frustrated or exhausted.

For larger projects, such as exterior home painting, consider employing the assistance of a local, trusted contractor, such as College Pro Painters. Painting experts such as College Pro will assess the condition of your home, offer color scheme recommendations, prep all exterior surfaces and complete the job to your satisfaction. Choosing a professional home renovation company can save you time and money, but if you choose to paint your home on your own, be sure to thoroughly research paint types, equipment needed and safety.

Keep Budget in Mind. Avoid renovation "money pits" by carefully assessing your budget ahead of time. Take into account all possible additional costs, such as extra paint, tools and fixtures. If you are going to use a profession service, such as College Pro Painters, be sure to get detailed estimates on all related expenses. If you stick to your budget you will achieve your home improvement goals without "breaking the bank."

With some careful planning and a little imagination you will be sure to meet your home improvement needs. But remember, you're not alone! Professionals such as College Pro Painters and College Pro Window Cleaning are here to help; College Pro offers professional solutions for exterior home painting, deck and patio painting, shutter and door repainting, fence painting, and window cleaning, and gutters and eaves cleaning. Call today for your free estimate, 1-800-327-2468, or schedule your free estimate online at collegepro.com.

About College Pro Painters:

College Pro Painters, the premier student run exterior painting company in the United States and Canada, has been providing students and non-students alike with jobs inside the company as well as outside since they opened over 40 years ago. College Pro offers part time work while giving you the opportunity to develop skills that will prepare you for success in the long run.

The rest is here:
Making the Most of Home Improvement Month

28-05-2012 19:55 CONFIRMATION MESSAGE: This message will stay public for as long as the Lord directs and re-posted as He instructs! THIS IS "NOT" A RAPTURE INSPIRED MESSAGE!!!

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Church Building: Do NOT build! - Video

Alexandra Posadzki Globe and Mail Update Published Tuesday, May. 29, 2012 11:45AM EDT Last updated Tuesday, May. 29, 2012 1:50PM EDT

Police have removed what they believe to be a pipe bomb from a Brampton church after a suspicious fire broke out at the building early Tuesday morning.

Investigators are also trying to determine if the fire is linked to another blaze that destroyed three units of an under-construction townhouse complex nearby.

A blaze broke out at St. Jeromes Parish, a Roman Catholic church on Chinguacousy Road, shortly before 5 a.m.

What [police] suspect is that there was a pipe bomb or something thrown into the building, said Mariam Mesbah, a spokesperson for the city of Brampton. They think what happened was the sprinkler system went off and sort of kept it at bay.

The blaze was discovered by a maintenance worker who had arrived to clean the church.

When Bramptons firefighters arrived on scene, the fire had already been extinguished by the churchs sprinkler system.

It really was a smoke fire, said Ms. Mesbah. There was more smoke there than actual flames.

When firefighters spotted a suspicious package lying on the floor, they left the church and called police.

The explosives unit of Peel police arrived and sent a robot into the building. The robot located what police believe to be a pipe bomb, although they say it may be a fake.

More here:
Police remove suspected pipe bomb from Brampton church

By KENNETH KNIGHT | The Tampa Tribune Published: May 30, 2012 Updated: May 30, 2012 - 12:00 AM

The construction of an apartment complex under way on Regents Park Drive is the first sign of multifamily housing in this New Tampa subdivision in at least a decade.

Tampa-based Bayfair Development is building 168 apartments on eight acres adjacent to the Pebble Creek Golf Club, company president and founder Michael Morris said last week.

It is the second apartment complex being built in a two-mile radius just south of the Hillsborough-Pasco county line.

The Bayfair multifamily community is expected to begin signing up tenants by late October or early November, Morris said.

"We will have a building ready for occupancy by the end of the year," he said.

The complex will have one- and two-bedroom apartments with standard appliances and a washer and dryer in each unit.

The size of the one-bedroom apartments will range from 800 square feet to 850 square feet, and the two-bedroom dwellings will top out at about 1,100 square feet.

No lease prices have been set, Morris said, "But we will be competitive in the marketplace."

The complex will be marketed to young professionals, upwardly mobile residents and empty-nesters interested in living in an active community in a suburban setting.

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Apartments touted as sign of strengthening economy

LOS ANGELES, May 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Southern California is feeling the bite as arid weather pushes termites into homes. The experts at Antimite, which has served the southern California region since 1941, recommend homeowners watch for signs of an infestation during spring swarm season to prevent extensive damage later.

"Termites cause more than $5 billion in damage annually in the U.S.," said Michael Tejeda, director of marketing for Antimite. "Preventing an infestation or catching one early can save homeowners thousands of dollars."

It is estimated that one in 30 homes nationwide may be infested with termites, and termite damage is usually not covered by homeowners insurance.

Termites enter homes through tiny openings in the home's foundation. Smaller than a grain of sand, these pests can slip through cracks as thin as a few sheets of paper.

"Termites can remain in homes for years, unnoticed by homeowners," Tejeda said. "A professional inspection once a year will help limit prolonged damage."

Antimite offers these signs of infestation and prevention tips:

Signs of termite infestation

Termite prevention tips

To schedule a home inspection and for more information about termites, visit http://www.antimitepestcontrol.com.

About Antimite Pest ControlAntimite Pest Control has provided pest control services and protection against termites, rodents and other pests in the Southern California region since 1941. It operates 12 branch locations across California and Arizona, reaching more than 37,000 customers. Antimite and its Arizona affiliate, SOS Exterminating, were acquired by Terminix, the nation's largest pest control provider, in 2010 and continue to operate as stand-alone entities.

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Antimite Expects Heavy Termite Year

Listen Now [17 min 1 sec]

When it's 75 degrees out and the sun is shining or setting, who can help but gravitate towards outdoor patios for that Sunday brunch, afternoon Panini or early evening cocktail. Given our famously good weather, youd think there would be sidewalk cafes everywhere in Southern California. In fact, we are a bit behind most of the rest of the world in that regard. But Katie Burbank, Senior Community Manager at L.A. East, says there are plenty of gorgeous restaurant patios for dining, drinking and people watching.

"I just went to Austin a couple of months ago, and I realized how rich Austin is with the patio culture, and got very envious, and then realized, 'Wait a second. I live in L.A., there are so many places to go, all over for patios,'" she said.

Some are well known, like The Alcove Caf & Bakery in Los Feliz. Others are more tucked away, like the secluded patio at the Cliffs Edge in Silverlake with that giant coral tree in the middle. If you fancy a hike after your bite, theres always the adorable little Trails Caf right in the heart of Griffith Park. And if youre looking to get high literally head to Perch in downtown Los Angeles for cozy, outdoor fireplaces and dramatic rooftop views. If youre looking for soaring ocean views, The Resort at Pelican Hill offers Italian cuisine and a striking seaside setting.

For you desert rats, theres no shortage of hot patios, many with cooling misters, such as La Brasserie Bistro and Bar in Palm Springs, which might make you say Oui! to more outdoor dining. But where are those hidden gems? Well get expert Katie Burbank's low down and take calls from listeners to get their hottest tips on the coolest places for patio dining this summer in Los Angeles and beyond.

Eveleigh Location: 8752 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA Notes: "It is breathtaking at right about sunset. They have this beautiful little atrium in the back, and you can eat, and they have a great mixology program as well. Monday night they have great bartending specials." Website

Habana Location: 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa, CA Notes: "[It's] absolutely gorgeous at night time. It's very Havana, Cuban, and they have tons of lights that just light up the patio area. It's at this place called The Lab, an open air market." Website

The Churchill Location: 8384 W. 3rd St. (at S Orlando Ave.), Los Angeles, CA Notes: "It's attached to the Orlando hotel. They have a fireplace outside so you can do day to night day drinking if you're a day drinker, or you can enjoy a nice meal in the evening." Website

In Los Angeles and Los Angeles County: Abricott in Pasadena Blue Dog Beer Tavern in Sherman Oaks Cafe Laurent in Culver City Cafe Stella in Silver Lake Cowboys and Turbans in Silver Lake Eclectic Wine Bar & Grille in North Hollywood El Gallo Grill in Los Angeles Figtree's Cafe and Grille in Venice Fiori Market in Pasadena Greystone Manor Supper Club in Los Angeles Heirloom Bakery in Pasadena L.A. Buns in Downey La Playita in Hermosa Beach Mike & Annes in Pasadena Nelson's in Rancho Palo Verdes Ray's Restaurant at LACMA Rive Gauche Cafe in Sherman Oaks The Cat and Fiddle in Los Angeles The Raymond Restaurant in Pasadena Vinoteque in Los Angeles Zip Fusion Sushi in Los Angeles

Elsewhere: 29 Palms Inn in San Bernadino County Boccali's Pizza and Pasta in Ventura County Dutch Garden Restaurant in Santa Barbara Fisherman's Seafood Restaurant in San Clemente Las Casuelas Nuevas in Rancho Mirage Madison Square & Garden Cafe in Laguna Beach Molly's Souper in San Bernadino County River's End Cafe in Seal Beach Schooner or Later Restaurant in Long Beach Summerland Beach Cafe in Summerland Zin American Bistro in Palm Springs

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Best spots for outdoor dining in Southern California