Repairs are underway on the bell tower at St. Johns Episcopal Church at 42nd & Sheridan in Linden Hills. Members built the church about 100 years ago. Photo by Nate Gotlieb

One-hundred years of deferred maintenance was how Rev. Susan Barnes described a project to repair the bell tower at St. Johns Episcopal Church at 42nd & Sheridan.

Its basically tilting and falling, church member Barb Nicol explained.

So this year, church members undertook a capital campaign to fix the tower and renovate classrooms in the church basement. They set a $1.7-million fundraising goal and aimed to complete the work by September, in time for the 100th anniversary of the first service in the church.

Theyre not only on track to complete the project next month, but theyve also surpassed the fundraising goal by about $300,000. Thats also given them a jump start on a social justice fund created as part of the campaign to be used for local causes.

We are very happy that at this place in our history we can do this work, Barnes said. The generosity of members at all levels of capacity has been very moving.

Its a generosity thats ingrained in the churchs history, members and leaders say. According to church archives, in 1903 members donated about $36, or about $937 in todays money, for a new hospital. They had $17 in the treasury at the time.

Later, church members were leaders in the sobriety movement and were on the forefront of marriage equality, according to member Craig Gudorf, who ran the capital campaign.

We just feel like our tradition kind of calls us to engage and not just talk about it but do something about it, he said.

The church has a healthy track record of service work both domestically and abroad, according to member Mark Lindberg, who is chair of the Outreach Committee deciding how best to use the new fund. Its work includes efforts related to shelter, housing and food.

Lindberg said theyd like to find a shorter-term opportunity and a medium-range goal for using the fund. He added that hed like to engage younger members of the church in the grant-making process, citing a Minneapolis Foundation model for doing so.

The committees work wont get started in earnest until closer to 2018, Lindberg said. In the meantime, church members are preparing for the construction work to be completed. Theyre planning a celebration to dedicate the new bell tower and preparing for the new classrooms to open this fall. Linden Hills Child Care rents the space.

Theyll also be opening a time capsule inside the churchs cornerstone that was laid about 100 years ago, Barnes said.

Gudorf said people feel a strong connection to the church. It has a thriving youth program, he said, and people want to see their kids raised in a church thats healthy.

Im not surprised that our congregation was really generous, he said.

More than 250 families and individuals are members of the parish, which is part of the American branch of the worldwide Anglican Communion. The churchs pillars are children and service, Barnes said, and the community gathers around them.

Its a really warm, welcoming place, she said.

The church began as a Sunday school back in 1897, and children have been at the center of church activities ever since, according to member Jane Gilgun, who is working on a church history. The Sunday school provided a place for parents to leave their children as they toured the area looking for lots around Lake Harriet.

The congregation bought the first of three lots on which St. Johns stands in 1904. The church was incorporated as a parish in November 1916, and building began that year. The first service was Sept. 16, 1917.

This years renovation work included excavating the entire north side of the building. The church is creating a new entrance there and is renovating the classrooms used by the daycare. The new daycare area will include new windows and new toilets for the preschoolers, Barnes said.

The rest is here:
St. John's church restoration nears completion - Southwest Journal

MCALLEN,Texas (CNS) -- Three years ago, a humanitarian crisis engulfed the city ofMcAllen as tens of thousands of asylum seekers from Central American countriesentered the border city each day -- often arriving exhausted and traumatizedfrom the long journey north.

Manyof them were fleeing extreme violence and poverty in their home countries ofHonduras, El Salvador and Guatemala.

SisterNorma Pimentel, a member of the Missionaries of Jesus, who is executivedirector of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, recognized the need tohelp the refugees -- mostly unaccompanied children and women with children -- whowere pouring into the city on their way to meet family members in other partsof the United States to seek political asylum.

Sheapproached Sacred Heart Church in McAllen about using its parish hall for a fewmonths to create a waystation for these asylum seekers to get a shower, freshclothes, and supplies for infants and children.

Threeyears later, the Humanitarian Respite Center has served 74,000 people -- and theparish is finally getting its hall back.

Anew building one block from Sacred Heart Church will be constructed to housethe respite center, thanks in part to a $100,000 grant from nonprofit CatholicExtension presented by Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago, who is chancellorof Catholic Extension.

TheChicago-based organization is the leading national supporter of missionary workin poor and remote parts of the United States.

"Youhave welcomed strangers and made them to feel like family," Cardinal Cupichtold Sacred Heart parishioners during a Mass celebrating the Aug. 15 feast ofthe Assumption. "The immigrant is not a statistic. Each one has a story, avoice, a history."

CardinalCupich traveled to McAllen to officially grant $100,000 to the Diocese ofBrownsville for the construction of the new building. The funds were raised ata benefit dinner at the Vatican Museum organized by Catholic Extension on the dayof the Chicago prelate's elevation to the College of Cardinals in November2016.

"TheHoly Father asked that the new cardinals not have big celebrations that drewattention to ourselves, but rather that we would do something that would helpthose at the periphery of society," Cardinal Cupich said. "I'm delighted to bewith you today to dedicate the funds that Catholic Extension raisedspecifically for this event for the Diocese of Brownsville."

Standingat the future site of the new facility after Mass, Cardinal Cupich presented aplaque to Sister Pimentel and Bishop Daniel Flores of the Diocese ofBrownsville, commemorating the occasion.

"Iaccept this gift from Catholic Extension and Cardinal Cupich as being very mucha part of this great venture, which is our common venture in the Churchofgiving witness to Christ, especially in the most vulnerable," BishopFlores said.

The$100,000 raised by Catholic Extension for the new respite center is the latestgrant in the organization's more than 110 years of funding to the state ofTexas. Catholic Extension's historical funding of Texas totals more than $173million when adjusted for inflation, including 1,860 church construction orrenovation projects across the state.

Inaddition to the funds for the respite center, Cardinal Cupich's consistorydinner raised another $75,000 that was granted to Sacred Heart of Jesus Parishin Hidalgo, a rapidly growing parish located blocks from the U.S.-Mexico border.Cardinal Cupich personally presented those funds to the parish Aug. 15 as well,which are earmarked for the construction of a new church building.

Thework of the respite center in McAllen received national attention in September2015, when Pope Francis acknowledged Sister Pimentel during a "virtual papalaudience" at Sacred Heart Church televisednationally by ABC News.

CardinalCupich and a delegation from Catholic Extension toured the current respitecenter, which is in the process of moving out of the parish hall and to aninterim location while the new building is constructed.

Today, the numbers of the people served by the respite center have greatly decreased,but it continues to welcome families traveling from their home countries inCentral America who are escaping life-threatening situations. The three most-representedcountries are still Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras.

Inaddition to attending to the physical needs of its guests, the respite centeralso provides phone services so asylum seekers can contact family members, aswell as information on how to safely travel and live in the United States. Mostrefugees spend less than 24 hours at the center before boarding buses toreunite with their relatives and await their asylum court hearing.

CardinalCupich praised the tireless work of Sister Pimentel and the numerous volunteers-- including parishioners from Sacred Heart Church -- who have staffed therespite center over the past three years. He stressed the need for the CatholicChurch to extend a welcoming hand to the marginalized immigrant and refugeecommunities who pass through the center's doors each day.

"TheCatholic Church has a very important role to humanize and put a face on thestranger and the vulnerable," he said, "especially those who sufferand whose dignity and rights are compromised or threatened."

Read more:
Chicago cardinal thanks Texas parish for 'welcoming the stranger' - Catholic News Service

Its the first word of our companys name, and its the first thing on our minds as we deliver quality and dependability to all of our clients.

We know log homes and their unique issues, and we understand the importance of keeping your home protected and looking good for years to come.

Even the most weathered and damaged log homes can be restored to their original beauty or updated to provide a new look with protection that lasts.

The wooden exterior of a log home has special needs to protect it from weather, UV light, and insect invasion. We can restore and repair your homes exterior so it looks as good as new. Ask about our Maintenance Program to keep your home in great condition.

We dont stop with the outside of your home. Our employees can take care of any interior restoration or remodeling, too. Walls, windows, floors, and more. We will update, repair, and/or remodel rooms so the inside looks as amazing as the outside of your home.

Let us put premium log-look vinyl siding on your garage or other buildings for a uniform look to your property. We also can help with porch and deck construction and/or finishing and door and window replacement.

The wooden exterior of a log home has special needs to protect it from weather, UV light, and insect invasion. We can restore and repair your homes exterior so it looks as good as new. Ask about our Maintenance Program to keep your home in great condition.

We dont stop with the outside of your home. Our employees can take care of any interior restoration or remodeling, too. Walls, windows, floors, and more. We will update, repair, and/or remodel rooms so the inside looks as amazing as the outside of your home.

Do you have a building that isnt a log structure, but youd like it to look like it is? We can do that! We can apply a log siding product that looks great.

We are licensed, insured, bonded, and covered by Workers Comp.

Read more from the original source:
Your Log Home Restoration Partner - Reliable Log Home ...

Two former Texas A&M University at Galveston students, Michael Cordray, Class of 2006 and his wife, Ashley, Class of 2009 have returned to Galveston, Texas to reclaim and showcase the islands history in their HGTV pilot, Saving Galveston.

From working corporate jobs just a few years ago to officially starting their company, Save 1900, the Cordrays are no strangers to taking risks to achieve their goals. Before officially opening Save 1900, Michael was often encouraged by his wife to quit his corporate position in order to chase their dreams.

Ashley probably asked me everyday for about a year or year and a half when I got home from work, if I quit my job today, Michael said. I dont know many wives that ask that.

Shortly after establishing their company, the calls and messages began to come from production companies affiliated with HGTV.

Finally I just decided to quit the job because we wanted to start working on more, Michael said. And then just two, three weeks later, one of the production companies called. We were talking to 15 to 20 production companies in a week, out of the blue.

HGTV production companies were in search of coastal homes selling for less than $500,000, which can only typically be found in specific regions of the United States.

Its really limiting on the east coast and the west coast, Ashley said. So I think it really drove [HGTV] down here and we got a ton of calls that week.

The show follows the couple throughout their creative process of planning and restoring historic

Galveston homes, while also sharing useful tips for home restoration. Galveston is also home to one of the largest concentrations of pre-1900 built homes in the nation.

Will Wright, director of communications and special events for the Galveston Historical Foundation said that efforts such as Saving Galveston, bring attention to Galveston and all that it has to offer and are finally giving the city the recognition it deserves.

[Saving Galveston] is a great way to educate people or showcase to people outside of Galveston what all is down here, Wright said. Its the kind of thing that advertising cant buy.

Since Saving Galveston is still aired as a pilot, the couple will know the status of their show sometime in mid to late August. If the show receives the green light, it will be aired as a full series on HGTV.

In the meantime, Ashley and Michael Cordray will continue to grow their company and restore homes throughout Galveston. They are currently working on three projects throughout the city and have five or six projects pending, should they receive the green light from HGTV.

Whether the couple is able to continue airing Saving Galveston or not, the exposure from the show has presented a number of opportunities for both Save 1900 and the city of Galveston.

Its all about just making the town as good as it possibly can be, Michael said. Its all about Galveston. The attention from the show could really be great for Galveston.

Michael said that if they are able to continue the show, viewers will definitely be seeing some maroon and white on their TV, but for now he will just have to settle for flashing his Aggie Ring.

Couple saves local houses through their own business Saving 1900

More here:
Former students host Saving Galveston, rebuild historic Galveston homes - Texas A&M The Battalion

Window replacement grant opportunities exist for both home owners and business owners looking to renovate their property with window repair replacement. A window replacement grant is money that is given by government departments to those who qualify as part of the energy savings incentives. It will cover some or all of the costs of buying and installing windows. Installing new windows is a cost effective and energy efficient way to lower your heating and cooling costs and reduce your carbon footprint. In most instances, you will not have to pay back the money received from a window replacement grant.

One of the window replacement grant programs to look into is the Weatherization Assistance Program, sponsored by the Department of Energy. This program helps low-income families update their home and renovate their current windows. There are over 38 million homes eligible for weatherization services which includes repair of windows among other energy savings renovations. Applicants must be low-income families well below the poverty line to qualify for the grant money. The money is distributed by state and local governments.

Another excellent window replacement grant to check out is the Self Help Homeownership Opportunity Program, sponsored by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This government-sponsored grant is available to low income home owners who help build the house themselves. In order to qualify for this window replacement grant of $15,000, you will need to prove your low income status and demonstrate serious financial need.

The Home Repair Loan and Grant program is another window replacement grant that can help those in need. There is both a loan as well as a grant program available, both sponsored by the government. Low income homeowners that cannot get funding from other financial institutes can apply for a $20,000 loan over 20 years at a one percent low-interest rate to use for any home replacement windows. Low income homeowners may also qualify for the $7,500 window replacement grant if they can demonstrate that their need to replace their windows for health and safety reasons.

Keep in mind that, in addition to the above grants, there is also the Energy Star incentive program that all tax payers can qualify for. You may be eligible for a tax savings this year if you replace windows either through DIY or through a contractor. Both window glass replacement and vinyl window replacement jobs will qualify for the tax credit cash back incentive. This government initiative was established as a way to get homeowners to make their homes more energy efficient. Replacing windows is one of the easiest ways to reduce your electricity input and thus your carbon footprint.

Replacement window costs aside, there are a number of other valid reasons to look into new windows apart from the grants and tax credit programs available. Replaced windows can make any home look like new again and can add several thousands of dollars to the resale value of your house. Even if you are not planning on selling your house anytime soon, you will be surprised at how any older home can be brought back to life with vinyl replacement windows. You will love coming home to a home that screams with style and aesthetic beauty.

New windows can also provide a sense of security and privacy to your home. With high quality and durable material, you can be sure that the only thing that is coming through your windows is natural light. You can stop intruders and poor weather from coming in all the while enjoying the beauty and natural light through your new windows. New windows come in all shapes, colors, styles, materials and designs. You can customize your own scheme or opt for some of the popular styles and sizes. Choose from materials such as vinyl, glass, wood and metal. Create a design that complements both the interior and exterior of your home. You can choose double hung or single hung windows, casement or awnings, sliders, picture or garden windows or bay and boy windows. Mix and match or use the same materials and designs for the entire home. The beauty of any new windows project is that the possibilities are endless.

If you are considering replacing windows, then you most likely want to know more about the window replacement costs as well as any window replacement grant programs that you might be eligible for. With an online search of grant programs, you can find out all you need to know about any grant project as well as the additonal costs involved. Browse through the offers, compare contractors and design a style that suits your home. If you have been considering a home renovation, then now is the time to take the leap and see what you have been missing.

View post:
Window Replacement Grant - Replace Your House Windows with ...

The iconic Chicago Theater

I suspect it's only rained two times in Chicago sinceJan. 1(slight exaggeration?)and both of those times were nights I planned to go to Ravinia. I have big San Andreas Fault-type cracks in my lawn (seriously) because it's been so dry the last few weeks. But the 2nd time I pointed my car in that direction (last week) was exactly the second time it rained. But just long enough for me to turn around and make it home. Then the sun came out. For only a couple of hours before it was time to set. To mock me.

I might try ONE MORE TIME before the season is over. If I do I'll tell you the day so you can reschedule your wedding, cookout, parade or block party. The minute I pack my cooler is when the sky will open up and pour out a gardener's liquid blessing.

Even though nothing monumental happened to me this time, I did use the time to do what I have been meaning to do for a while--write to tell you about a great product I discovered in my curious wanderings as a property owner.

Delaware Building, 36 W. Randolph. Perhaps you've ducked into that McDonald's before.

I really, REALLY hate to do this to you. But I have to remind you that summer won't last forever. What better time for you to think about updating your windows? It's been a while since I've shared with you some cool product or service. The Condo Expo is around the corner so let me tell you about one of the great companies you might find there. I met Ryszard and Sebastian Borys of Signa System, Inc. (Scandinavian Insulated Glass of North America). On top of them both being pretty cool guys who were interesting to talk to, their company offers a really nice service I had never heard of.

What happens when older windows dont meet todays building standards (or even just the owners expectations) for energy efficiency, but changes to the faade of the structure might affect the architectural/aesthetic integrity? Meaning, you want your building to look as charming as when it was built 100 years ago but you dont want to lose the curb appeal or pay a fortune in energy bills.

Signa System, Inc. created a patented process of converting single-glazed windows to insulating glass by adding a custom sheet of extra glass to an existing window. It doesnt matter what type of framing surrounds the existing windows (wood, steel, aluminum). Clear or tinted film can be applied to the inside of the glass to reduce UV rays and to protect the film from scratches. A moisture absorbent spacer and a heating wire are placed in between and the whole thing is sealed with a hermetic bond.

We now feel safe to change the floor and discovered a surprising benefit. Our dog (Zeus) prefers to rest next to the windows. In the past, this required frequent mopping and towel drying. Zeus can now sleep in his favorite spot and not get soaked.--customer review

This makes the outside of the building remain unchanged while increasing the comfort level of the interior. Because of the hermetic seal, this reduces cleaning down to two surfaces as opposed to four or six with other methods of insulation. All this without interfering with the operation of the window. Plus it can be more cost-effective than a full window replacement. They do a lot of work with condo associations to help individual owners to improve the comfort of their units. This can also increase the re-sale value of a unit.

Customers write letters about the friendly and professional work crews. Existing windows are measured and the add-ons are custom cut offsite to eliminate noise and a messy worksite. Installation is quick, easy and clean--plus no demolition is required. And guess what? They can even add a THIRD sheet of glass if thats what you want. Whatever floats your boat. An amazing idea!

910 North Lake Shore, Chicago

Reduced cost, energy savings, environment-friendly considerations, noise abatement (traffic, wind, etc.), and frost-free panes to improve visibility are only some of the benefits of upgrading older, single-glazed windows. Some customers have shared glowing testimonials with the company about the unexpected benefits of this installation.

One condo owner noticed they were better able to regulate the humidity levels within their unit which in turn allowed their hardwood floors to stop curling at the edges during the coldest, driest months. Another customer found the new windows prevented condensation which would drip down the old panes and damage their hardwood floors.

All dogs love to sunbathe, not just Zeus

A different customer who wrote about how the windows ended years-worth of damage to the floors shared this story. The customer wrote, We now feel safe to change the floor and discovered a surprising benefit. Our dog (Zeus) prefers to rest next to the windows. In the past, this required frequent mopping and towel drying. Zeus can now sleep in his favorite spot and not get soaked. Yep, you heard right. These windows are even Zeus-endorsed.

Signa System worked on 200 S. Wells in Chicago (the school for IRS agents), 530 S. Clark in Chicago (the old FBI Building and office of Homeland Security), and the Commanders Building at the Great Lakes US Naval Training Center north of Chicago. Now you can bet these guys wouldnt be brave enough to hang around in those types of circles unless they had a product they could stand by. They even did work at the citys iconic Chicago Theater Building.

Chicago warehouse fire aftermath, truck and barrels covered in ice

There are installations around the Chicago area which have lasted over 36 years and they are still as effective as the day they were installed. With the crazy-cold, character-building winters we experience here in Chiberia, this is saying A LOT. The system works so well that Dirk Lohan, grandson of Chicago architecture legend Mies van der Rohe, hired Signa to improve the windows on one of his grandfathers historic landmarks in the early 1980s.

Yes, I blogged about window replacement and knickers a couple of weeks ago, but the type of service Signa System offers does not fit my current situation. So I'm not telling you about them for ulterior motives.*** I just believe they offer an excellent product and this info might be helpful to some landlord out there. And they were really nice guys.

Ryszard Borys in 1987 standing in front of one of his projects

Ryszard Borys was a young man raising a family in Scandinavia in the early 1970s. As a tall, solidly-built, dark-haired Polish man trying to make a living in a fair-haired, fair-skinned society, Ryszard told me he found it difficult to fit in sometimes. This also limited his business and employment opportunities. When no one would hire him despite his training as a highly-skilled architect, Ryszard got busy developing his own product and company. From these challenges a way cool new product was born. Being a person of color makes me admire someone who stays positive and gets creative in the face of adversity.

***I approached this company at an expo and I volunteered to blog about them because I think they have a service which would be helpful to readers. I have not received any endorsements or other benefits in exchange for this post.

For info, contact:Sebastian BorysSales & Marketing Manager(312) 877-8181Signa System, Inc.www.signasystem.net

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Filed under: Chicago-Specific Tips, City Life, General Tips, Real Estate, Uncategorized

Tags: Chicago theater, condo, condo expo, energy efficiency, hardwood floors, reducing energy costs, Ryszard Borys, Sebastian Borys, Signa System Inc, windows

Original post:
The best time of year for updating your windows - ChicagoNow (blog)

Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images

The clock is ticking, and as the transfer window edges closer to being shut, the sound of the minute arm ticking will ring louder in the ears of Premier League managers.

Antonio Conte is among those who will hear it most, as the Italian knows his Chelsea squad still needs additions before August is out.

The Blues have had to deal with a mini injury and suspension crisis in the opening exchanges of 2017/18, leaving the squad depleted. It's meant Conte filling his bench with inexperienced youngsters and makeshift formations, which isn't ideal as he considers the season from now to May.

What's clear is that Chelsea can't allow any more first-team players to leave Stamford Bridge. The club has conducted good business in offloading the likes of John Terry, but they haven't been efficient enough in replacing them.

As it standsin terms of numbers, at leastChelsea are worse off now than they were when being crowned Premier League champions in May. They have to address some key areas, notably in midfield and attack.

So what are the best and worst scenarios for the reigning Premier League champions between now and August 31? We take a closer look.

Best: Diego Costa's bad smell disappears

Diego Costa has never been so friendly with the media. Look at his activity this past month and you would think journalists were Costa's pals, with the Chelsea front man accepting interviews from all and sundry.

It hasn't always been that way. Costa has been an enigma in mixed zones, rarely stopping to speak with journalists to discuss his performances and the state of play at Chelsea.

Now, of course, he has a personal agenda to push, and he's not embarrassed in the slightest about it. He wants to join Atletico Madrid, and he isn't going to stop until he gets his wish.

Good headlines for him are bad headlines for Chelsea, and the hope now is that he is gone for good before the transfer window shuts.

The Blues' 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend was the perfect antidote to overcome their shocking opening-weekend loss to Burnley. It really has turned the tide, with the mood around Stamford Bridge significantly lifted.

No longer are we talking about a post-title collapse like we saw in 2015/16. Rather, Chelsea's season is looking all the better for it, reminding us why they are the reigning Premier League champions.

Costa still remains AWOL, however, and if he isn't sold by the end of August, the circus is going to roll on and on. No matter how many matches Chelsea win, they will never be able to deflect from a situation that Costa is eager to feed himself.

The bad odour is fermenting, and it will all the more with the window shut until January.

Worst: Chelsea spend 70 million Virgil van Dijk

From selling players to not signing them, Chelsea will do well to avoid a splurge on Virgil van Dijk this summer. That's exactly what they are being linked with by the Express (via the Sun), however.

For a player in such high demand, it's a statement that many will label as folly on the surface of it. But look beyond the glamour of a high-profile, mega-money signing and the logic is there.

Chelsea don't need Van Dijk. Yes, that's right, one of the hottest properties in the Premier League doesn't need to be added to the Chelsea back line.

Why? Because Chelsea have Andreas Christensen.

Signing Van Dijk may well work in the immediate future, but it will only serve to block Christensen's pathway to the first team. And that can't happen.

Chelsea already have David Luiz, Cesar Azpilicueta, Antonio Rudiger and Gary Cahill as the senior players to form their three-man defence. Three's company; four's a crowd, in that sensethrow Van Dijk into the mix and five becomes a headache.

Christensen's youth and comparative inexperience will make him sixth choice in that scenario, which will be a major blow to his development. He's long been hyped at Stamford Bridge, and in the opening two games of this season, he's backed up the belief that he is capable of becoming a Chelsea regular.

It's too soon to expect him to start every week, but Christensen is capable of playing 20 games or more throughout the season, functioning in the way we would expect any squad player. With more senior names in the pecking order, that number of appearances will drop significantly.

Too often Chelsea's transfer policy has been short-sighted. Moving for Van Dijk now, when Christensen is emerging, would be a step back.

And besides, there are other areas in Conte's squad that could do with a 70 million investment, notably midfield.

Best: Ryan Bertrand returns home

Chelsea should never have sold Ryan Bertrand when they did three years ago. The former academy graduate had been waiting in the wings to replace Ashley Cole at left-back, but he was never given the chance.

Instead, the Blues signed Filipe Luis in 2014, the same summer when Cole was eventually released by the club and Bertrand departed for Southampton. The Brazilian cost Chelsea 16 million and flopped, with the Blues spending a further 45 million on left-backs in an attempt to find Cole's long-term replacement.

Macros Alonso has been a resounding success story, but he needs back-up. As the only left-sided defender at Stamford Bridge, he isn't going to get through a full Premier League campaign with Champions League, Carabao Cup and FA Cup commitments.

Chelsea need a player who can challenge Alonso and strengthen their squad in the process. The Blues have been most successful when they could boast at least two talented players for every position, and bringing Bertrand into the fold would allow for that.

His three years at Southampton have made Bertrand a bona fide England international. He's shown himself to be one of the most capable left-sided players in the Premier League.

Now for the Blues to make good on the rumours from this weekend in the Express.

Worst: They miss out on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

We move from the left flank to the right flank now, where Chelsea can't afford to miss out on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain this summer.

It's a story that has been rumbling on since the beginning stages of pre-season, and Chelsea have to get their man.

Alas, the Express is reporting that Arsenal are attempting to fend off Chelsea's interest by offering Oxlade-Chamberlain a new contract worth 125,000 a week. That's not good news given that a major reason for the England international running his contract to its last year was a desire for a bumper pay rise.

The debate will rage as to whether or not Oxlade-Chamberlain is the type of player Chelsea should be chasing to give Victor Moses competition at right-wing-back. Regardless, he's clearly been a transfer target for a long while and the Blues are making a habit of missing out on players they're chasing.

It happened with Romelu Lukaku this summer and John Stones 12 months ago. Chelsea need to show some muscle and bring Oxlade-Chamberlain to Stamford Bridge.

Added to that, without Oxlade-Chamberlain, where will Chelsea turn for the wing-back role? Like with Alonso, they can't leave it down to Moses alone to be the solution across all competitions this season.

Deploying wing-backs has been such a vital part of Conte's success in west London. As much as it is Chelsea's strength, with just Moses and Alonso to call upon, it's equally their weakness.

Best: They make a mega signing... like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Here's a transfer rumour that has reared its head once againChelsea may be in with a chance of signing Borussia Dortmund's hitman Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

The leading goalscorer in the Bundesliga last season, Aubameyang was linked with a move to Chelsea earlier this summer. With the capture of Alvaro Morata and Chelsea reportedly not meeting Dortmund's valuation or deadline for a move, it seemed the striker would remain in Germany.

But now Aubameyang has changed the narrative.

According to Radio Montecarlo Italy (per the Sun), Aubameyang has put himself back on the market, saying recently: "I am still reflecting on whether I should leave or not. This club and these fans are incredible, but if I want to grow, I feel I need to leave."

A strike trio of Morata, Aubameyang and Michy Batshuayi would make Chelsea one of the most lethal across Europe, let alone the Premier League. It would blow the title race wide open, with the Blues' fire power the envy of their rivals.

Most sides can boast one major goal threat, yet the addition of Aubameyang would mean Chelsea could blow teams away with both the Gabonese and Morata in tow.

It's the sort of move that gets fantasy football fans excited. And by that measure, it would be a massive boost to Chelsea fans who will be purring at the thought.

Link:
Best and Worst Scenarios for Chelsea in the Rest of the Transfer Window - Bleacher Report

By JEFF MEEK / Managing editor

At the August meeting of the Hot Springs Village recreation committee meeting, members received and gave input on a variety of projects, including activities at Waypoint, Woodlands Auditorium, trails, the mini-golf area, Life Long Learning and a Spring Moonshine Festival.Recreation director Stacey Hoovers report noted the fitness center will be closed this week for annual maintenance and window replacement bids have been received. Also in the report was the fact that Waypoint will be transitioning to the food and beverage division of the POA on Sept. 2 and annual clean-up at Coronado Center is underway.Work also continues at the RV Park, with underbrush being removed to provide better drainage. An irrigation system has been installed at Grove Park and phase two of the Cortez Pavilion has been completed, with the installation of new picnic tables. The final phase will consist of working on the landscape beds.Events mentioned were a Rock Porch session on Sept. 2, a Sept. 8 Friends of Coronado Library Trivia Night and the Bike MS event on Sept. 9-10.Committee chair Donna Aylward said she was impressed with the now-beautiful location on the Lake DeSoto point near Waypoint. She said the night was gorgeous during the most recent Rock Porch session. Parking remains an issue there because of little available space. Aylward said she thinks plans could be improved in anticipation of a large turnout. Outdoor recreation director Charlie Brown said its not easy knowing what to expect in terms of number of attendees at a Waypoint event, and that traffic management and other issues are a real challenge.It was said by another committee member that she felt the stage on the point is too low for those in the audience near the back of the seating area to see the entertainers. Brown added that the space is not conducive to big crowds.Committee member Larry Wilson told everyone he was on hand at Woodlands Auditorium when the recent electrical work was done. There were 560 wires pulled out, said Wilson, who added that he learned much of what was put in back in 1992 was close-out items. There must have been half of a room full of old wiring, he said. Wilson videotapes many events for the Village and said the facility now has proper electrical systems in place for anything that comes down the road.Bags for pet waste were brought up and Aylward asked recreation assistant Valerie Mettler to inform the trails committee about the request.The pickleball proposal for new courts has been postponed, which was an obvious disappointment to pickleball enthusiasts. After CEO Leslie Nalley and COO Linda Mayhood look at the proposal, a recommendation will be made.Refurbishing the tennis courts is also on the committee radar and Brown said it was in the upcoming budget proposal.Questioning the status of the mini golf area took place; is it staying or going away? Aylward said no decision has yet been made.She then asked committee members for ideas for 2018 events. At this point Wilson said that Life Long Learning Institute (LLI) will be partnering with Henderson State University in January 2018. They were very excited that we approached them. We will have their marketing arm to market events, said Wilson. LLI will be working with Henderson on criteria for the organization. We will have National Park resources as well, Wilson added.As for ideas for 2018, a Moonshine Festival was mentioned, which would include a 5K, tasting event and dining on a beach.Another idea put forth was having a quilt show, perhaps with classes. The Quilt Guild is interested in such an event, which could possibly be part of the annual craft fair and draw people from other states.Great idea. Lets see how it may fit in, said Aylward.The recreation committee meets next at 3 p.m. Monday, Sept. 11 at Coronado Community Center.

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Ideas, feedback highlight recreation committee meeting - Van Buren Press Argus-Courier

Jurgen Klopp may have received a major fillip ahead of Liverpools Champions League second leg against Hoffenheim on Wednesday after a report claimed Philippe Coutinho will be staying at the club this season.

Coutinho has been the subject of several huge bids from Barcelonawhich is seeking a replacement for Neymar in the final weeks of the transfer windowthe latest reported to be 114 million ($146.5 million), although that apparently included Coutinho winning multiple Champions Leagues with Barcelona.

Liverpools response to each approach from Barcelona has been the same: a firm no.

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The Guardian reported on Monday that Barcelona was weighing up a fourth offer for Coutinho, 25, who has not featured in either of Liverpools two Premier League games so far this season due to injury.

But the Daily Mirror claims Liverpool has won the battle to keep Coutinho, with the deadline for Liverpool to accept the latest bid having passed on Sunday. Coutinho signed a new five-year contract in January, and Liverpool is under no pressure to sell. Indeed, a sale at this stage even for upwards of 100 million would make it difficult for Liverpool to find a replacement before the transfer window closes on August 31.

That deadline passing means Barcelona has had to give up on the idea that it can lure Coutinho to the Nou Camp this summer. Instead it will have to look elsewhere as it seeks to spend the world-record 200 million it received from Paris Saint-Germain for Neymar.

The news will come as a relief to Klopp, who is attempting to pilot Liverpool through a tricky Champions League playoff tie against Hoffenheim. Liverpool takes a 2-1 lead back to Anfield on Wednesday night, knowing that victory on aggregate over the two legs will secure it safe and lucrative passage through to the Champions League group stages.

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Transfer News: Liverpool Gets Major Coutinho Update Before Hoffenheim Champions League Tie - Newsweek

Mohawk Industries (NYSE: MHK) and Interface (NASDAQ:IFSIA) are both consumer discretionary companies, but which is the superior business? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their dividends, institutional ownership, profitability, valuation, analyst recommendations, risk and earnings.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of recent recommendations and price targets for Mohawk Industries and Interface, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Mohawk Industries presently has a consensus price target of $266.50, indicating a potential upside of 7.93%. Given Mohawk Industries higher probable upside, equities analysts plainly believe Mohawk Industries is more favorable than Interface.

Profitability

This table compares Mohawk Industries and Interfaces net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

76.5% of Mohawk Industries shares are owned by institutional investors. 17.1% of Mohawk Industries shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares Mohawk Industries and Interfaces gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Mohawk Industries has higher revenue and earnings than Interface.

Summary

Mohawk Industries beats Interface on 6 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

Mohawk Industries Company Profile

Mohawk Industries, Inc. is a flooring manufacturer that creates products for residential and commercial spaces around the world. The Company segments include Global Ceramic, Flooring North America (Flooring NA) and Flooring Rest of the World (Flooring ROW). Its manufacturing and distribution processes provide carpet, rugs, ceramic tile, laminate, wood, stone, luxury vinyl tile and vinyl flooring. The Global Ceramic segment designs, manufactures, sources, distributes and markets a line of ceramic tile, porcelain tile and natural stone products used in the residential and commercial markets for both remodeling and new construction. The Flooring NA segment designs, manufactures, sources, distributes and markets carpet, laminate, carpet pad, rugs, hardwood and vinyl. The Flooring ROW segment designs, manufactures, sources, distributes and markets laminate, hardwood flooring, roofing elements, insulation boards, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), chipboards, and vinyl flooring products.

Interface Company Profile

Interface Inc. is engaged in design, production and sale of modular carpet, also known as carpet tile. As of January 1, 2017, the Company marketed its modular carpets in over 110 countries under the brand names Interface and FLOR. The Company operates through three segments: Americas, Europe and Asia-Pacific. The Company distributes its products through two primary channels, including direct sales to end users and indirect sales through independent contractors or distributors. The Company sells an antimicrobial chemical compound under the trademark Intersept that the Company incorporates in all of its modular carpet products. It also sells its TacTiles carpet tile installation system, along with a range of traditional adhesives and products for carpet installation and maintenance that are manufactured by a third party. It also provides turnkey project management services for national accounts and other customers through its InterfaceSERVICES business.

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Head to Head Contrast: Mohawk Industries (MHK) vs. Interface (IFSIA) - TrueBlueTribune