An interior rendering for the Innovation Hub, which will feature a makerspace, an artisan food marketplace and a business incubator with flexible office space. (Rendering courtesy of 16 Tech Innovation District)

The long-planned 16 Tech Innovation District along Indiana Avenue northwest of downtown is at a pivotal momentone its organizers say could serve as a catalyst for tremendous growth at the 50-acre campus and for central Indiana overall.

The first office building in the $500million project will open in June.

And work is underway to turn the former Citizens Water headquarters into a 109,000-square-foot Innovation Hub with a makerspace, an artisan food marketplace and a business incubator with flexible office space.

Bandar

The hubexpected to open next Januarywill provide the amenities that organizers say should draw established companies, startups and big thinkers to the campus, sparking a powerful economic engine of collaboration and innovation.

Interest in 16 Tech is already highwith the first 120,000-square-foot building fully leased and a second office building, which is still in the blueprint phase, almost one-third pre-leased.

And, project developers said, interest is building for a 200- to 250-unit apartment complex that is set to start going up later this year.

This project has been a long time in the works, but now, with the construction and imminent opening of these first buildings, its becoming very real, said 16 Tech CEO Bob Coy. Were starting to see a visual transformation, and with that happening momentum for this project is building and will feed on itself.

Eventually the campus, nestled between White River and Fall Creek, is expected to include parks, walking paths and other amenities. And within a decade, organizers say, it could employ more than 3,000 highly skilled workers and boast more than 1million square feet of office and lab space.

The projectinitiated by the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, Indiana University and other partnersis overseen by the not-for-profit 16 Tech Community Corp. and is funded through a variety of public and private sources.

So far, more than $10million for general operations is coming from Lilly Endowment Inc., Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation and other corporate, philanthropic and individual donors.

And organizers have raised more than $100million in funding for public infrastructure and physical development of the district, including:

$55million from the city for public infrastructure.

$33million from Lilly Endowment for land acquisition, public infrastructure and place-making projects.

$23million in Innovation Hub financing through federal and state tax credits and a $7.3million loan from Lake City Bank.

Mercer

Construction costs for Innovation Building 1, Innovation Building 2 and the residential development are being funded by the developer of those projects, Indianapolis-based Browning Investments.

And 16 Tech Community Corp. has signed three key deals to operate the Innovation Hub, including a multi-year deal with 1776which manages seven incubators in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Delaware, New Jersey and Washington, D.C.to oversee the development of the flexible office space and innovation area.

Alex Bandar, founder of the Idea Foundry in Columbus, Ohio, has been signed to a multi-year deal to shepherd the makerspace. Bandar, who is working on a handful of makerspace projects throughout Ohio, has been consulting with 16 Tech for the past several months.

And 16 Tech has hired local chef Craig Baker to usher in the artisan market. Baker has worked in several local and national restaurantsmost recently Cunningham Restaurant Group as the executive chefand runs the consulting firm CCCB Inc.

All-star lineup

The additions of Bandar, Baker and 1776s chief, Shelton Mercer, are a big boost to the project, Coy said. This is an all-star lineup.

Coy

Key to the Innovation Hub, Bandar said, is creating not only a physical facility with space and tools where people can work and gather, but also events and programming that bring people together for an exchange of ideas.

The 15,000-square-foot makerspace is expected to mirror some concepts from the Idea Foundry, which is one of the largest makerspaces in the world, with more than 800 members and 60,000 square feet of space.

The 16 Tech makerspace will feature computer-controlled machine tools, 3D printers and robotics in a member-driven workshop and fabrication studio, along with STEM programs for students and a collaboration hub for local startups and other companies. While Bandar said the focus will be on making physical products, there will also be coding and app-development classes as well as internet-of-things training.

Bandar found his passion for the maker movement during a moment of humiliation. Having just received his doctorate in computational metallurgy from Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, his sisteran artistic metalsmith, sculptor and professor of jewelry in Vermontasked him to teach her students about the science behind welding metal. Armed with his new degree and giant ego, Bandar said he discovered in five minutes that he wasnt able to teach the students anything practical.

Baker

They were all better machinists, welders and blacksmiths than I, he said. If I had an idea, maybe I could write a computer program about it or design an alloy, but if my sister or her artist friends had an idea, they just made the damn thing.

From there, Bandar decided he wanted to create a place that put a premium on creativity and where people could come and trade ideas, learn from one another and make stuffpractical hardware products and software programs and apps.

Out of that, The Idea Center in Ohio was born 12 years ago and has forged a national reputation. Bandar said 16 Techs makerspace could have that kind of reputationand up to 500 memberswithin five years.

Membership costs for the makerspace are still being finalized, Bandar said, but would likely be in the $50- to $100-per-month range with discounts for students and entrepreneurs. Corporate memberships would be in the $100- to $300-per-month range.

Being a member of the makerspace means youre a part of a community and you can share resources with other community members, Bandar said.

The much-acclaimed Idea Foundry is much larger in square footage compared to the planned makerspace at 16 Tech, but Bandar doesnt think that will hurt the local venue.

In Columbus, things are pretty spread out, Bandar said. Having a more compact footprint, I think, could really help bring people together for the type of networking and exchange of ideas were looking for.

Theres already been lots of interest in the makerspace with only a modicum of marketing and publicity.

Nicolini

Our Facebook page has 500 followers and weve had meetups with 50 people here, Bandar said. We definitely see a big interest. Were going to have our next meetup later this month and from there they will recur monthly. We think the following will grow pretty quickly, and once this facility opens and people see what we have to offer, it will really take off.

Bandar envisions the makerspace attracting a wide variety of users, including serious-minded business folks, people making and testing a product for a side hustle, and even hobbyists.

More than co-working space

Mercer, the brains behind new-look innovation centers at seven locations on the East Coast, was a very meaningful hire for 16 Tech, Coy said.

What hes doing is not the typical co-working space. That far undersells what hes created, said Coy, who was CEO of a seed-stage investment organization in Cincinnati before coming to 16 Tech in mid-2017. 1776 brings an element of connectivity to its projects and capitalizes on a mentorship network it has built nationally and globally.

Mercer, a serial entrepreneur who has played in the business arenas of sports and entertainment, made a splash in 2015 with his work on the Pennovation Center, a 60,000-square-foot innovation hub at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.

The co-working space is just one element of what were doing at 16 Tech, Mercer told IBJ. Not only are we going to have various flexible office and desk options, well have garage areas for innovation, suites for corporations, meeting and conference rooms, and other creative elements.

Those elements will include a bleacher area that will connect the first and second floors of the facilityand that can also seat 75 or so for gatheringsas well as lab space for things like robotics and biosciences.

See 16 Tech Innovation District plans.

In addition, he added, every member will have access to growth services, mentoring and coaching. We can help members with things like raising capital, putting together a pitch deck or a pricing model, designing a website and developing a go-to market strategy. Were a full-service incubator and accelerator. This space will be absolutely unique to Indianapolis.

Rental prices in the flexible office space will start as low as $200 per month and will be competitive with other co-working spaces in the market.

Pennovation reached capacity in 3-1/2 years, Mercer said.

I see the same type of success in Indianapolis, he said. I think well have more than 250 members and dozens of companies within three years.

Mercer emphasized that while the Innovation Hub building might appear to have three separate components, its designed to work as a single ecosystem with deep integration.

Recipe for success?

16 Tech is cooking up a recipe for success, Coy said, with the addition of Baker to head up planning of the artisan food marketplace, which will feature eight eateries and 16 retailers.

The artisan market will be fashioned after a European-style farmers market with a free-flowing atmosphere that feels like youre outside, Baker said.

Its going to be more like a retail center, with a butcher shop, bakery, barber and flower shops, he added. The space will be all on one floor with seating in the center, more like a living room than a formal market.

We feel this [market] is the glue, Baker said. Everyone needs to eat.

Key to this place is the location. Everyone will walk by twice a day, he said. Were the heartbeat of this facility where people from various backgrounds will cross paths and gather.

But the artisan marketplace wont just serve passersby. It will also be a place for restaurateurs and retailers to innovate.

Baker, a big advocate of the Indiana-grown movement, intends to showcase a wide variety of food options and is open to working with startup eateries as well as more established food-service providers. Baker anticipates holding events in the space, too, including restaurant rollouts and food introductions.

Retail booth rent will be as low as $20 a day with utilities included. Restaurant space will be about $2,000 a month, Baker said.

The spaces will be designed so they can change tenants in three days, he said. Many of the restaurants will also offer delivery options, not only for surrounding businesses but for area residents as well.

The artisan marketplace is key to achieving the vision to make 16 Tech a place where people live, work and play, Coy said.

About 25% of the space in the food marketplace is already spoken for with non-binding pre-lease deals, Baker said. We expect to make tenant announcements at the end of March, he added.

Flurry of construction ahead

Construction on 16 Techs third buildingits second office building, Innovation 2wont begin until it is 60% to 70% filled through pre-lease deals. 16 Tech officials have letters of interest for about 30% of the space, and they are optimistic they will hit the threshold to start construction on the 140,000-square-foot building by the end of this year.

Construction of that buildingwhich is directly south of Innovation 1will take approximately 18 months, with the building targeted to open in mid 2022.

Construction of 16 Techs first housing projecta 200- to 250-unit complexis also set to begin this year. Coy said the development is expected to expand over time, with as many as 750 housing units constructed by 2030.

Innovation 1, which will be owned by Browning, cost $30million to construct, and is fully leased. It will house small, tech-oriented companies, as well as two major biosciences groups.

The Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine, part of the Indiana University School of Medicine, will be on the fourth floor, while the Indiana Biosciences Research Institute will take up much of the first three floors.

IBRI is already headquartered on 16 Tech property, in the Biotechnology Research and Training Center at 1345 W. 16th St. IBRI researchers collaborate with private firms and academia on a variety of high-impact, long-term projects.

The top two floors of Innovation 1 will house the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership and its affiliated organizations, including BioCrossroads, Conexus Indiana and TechPoint. The groups promote a variety of fields, including life sciences, logistics and technology.

This is not just a real estate development, said Ian Nicolini, vice president of economic development for the Indy Chamber.

You cant confuse this with other office parks or complexes, he said. This is a place where key businesspeople, entrepreneurs, people in research and development will all come together with bankers and venture capitalists to help Indianapolis be a city that competes for jobs of the future.

And the fact that an important part of the plan is to reach out to the area neighborhoodsbusinesses and residents in the areaonly strengthens it as a hub of innovation.

Continue reading here:
First 16 Tech office building set to open in June; Innovation Hub to follow - Indianapolis Business Journal

Need for Speed Heat update version 1.04 is available to download now for PS4, Xbox One, and PC. Here are the full patch notes for this update.

The new update for Need for Speed implements a number of major bug fixes. The file size of this update is 7.74 GB on PC, 8.38 GB on PS4, and 7.7 GB on Xbox One. Get the full Need for Speed Heat update 1.04 patch notes below.

Additions

Black Market Delivery

As touched upon in the Under the Hood article, the March Update features the first Black Market Delivery. Once youve launched the updated game, youll meet Raziel. Hell give you a call to let you know that theres a car waiting to be collected down at Port Murphy. Thats only the beginning as you pick it up, Raziel will give you tasks, and as time goes on, you can unlock new character customization, vanity items and a body kit for that car.

Two cars are released with the March Update. The Aston Martin DB11 Volante 19 comes as a free addition, being a variant of an existing car. The second one is a brand new paid car, the McLaren F1 93.

Along with unlocking new vanity items like the new Beat Sync underglow, you will also notice that youre playing some new events. Once completed, you will be able to replay them outside of the Black Market Delivery.

Quality of Life improvements

Adjustable camera shake

Game is not paused Notification

New item notification

Vanity Items

Race visuals

Bugfixes

Missions

Events

UI

Cars / Garage

Visual

Audio

World

This is a very extensive list of changes to the world. There are a lot of minor tweaks for LOD issues, or instances where you could go to the middle of nowhere and drive through a rock because it was missing a collision volume. Then theres buildings that were missing an entrance and other fun things.

We h3ided this into sections, as theres a bunch of changes related to three different categories.

Collisions: We have tweaked some collisions. When we talk about collisions, were usually talking about your car hitting any other object in the environment, sometimes even another car. Or being able to drive your car into objects or below terrain, as the textures are not matching the collision models.

Reset points: This second category includes instances when your car would reset, when the game would think that youre out of bounds. Most of these occurrences were in very specific places far off the busy streets, and not places you would frequent during races or challenges.

Visual: The last category covers changes that are mainly or purely visual. Slightly misaligned textures, floating vegetation, houses that are just slightly too high or low compared to the ground.

Collisions

Reset points

Need for Speed Heat is available now for PS4, Xbox One, and PC.

Here is the original post:
Need For Speed Heat Update Version 1.04 Full Patch Notes (PS4, Xbox One, PC) - GearNuke

Mutts Canine Cantina is celebrating National Love Your Pet Day (Feb. 20) with Love Your Mutts Day parties Saturday in Dallas and Fort Worth, both from 1 to 3 p.m. They will feature vendors and contests for the title of best dog strut, best ugly dog, cutest butt and best outfit. Local doggy influencers will be the judges, and winners will receive a Mutts gift card. The guest list also includes Saving Hopes adoptable dogs. 2889 Cityplace W. Blvd. (at Oak Grove Avenue), Dallas, 214-377-8723; and 5317 Clearfork Main St., Fort Worth, 817-377-0151. Free for members; a day pass for the play areas is $8.95 (vaccinations required). Theres no charge to sit on the patio. muttscantina.com.

Also on the schedule

Homegrown Hounds Dog Deli and Bakery in Las Colinas invites four-leggers to make a St. Patricks Day paw painting during store hours through March 17. They are 8.5 by 5.5 inches, with four styles to choose from (leprechauns, pot-o-gold, shamrocks or rainbow). 5620 N. OConnor Blvd. A $10 donation is requested. 888-929-2697. facebook.com/snackinwaggin.

Yappy hours from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Fridays in March at K-9 Pointe Dog Park in Keller will feature free beer and wine, and food trucks will sell dinner. This weeks kickoff will feature TUPPS Brewery and Frios Gourmet Pops, followed by Wild Acre Brewing Co. on March 13, Real Ale Brewing Co. on March 20 and Shannon Brewing Co. on March 27. 405 Rufe Snow Drive. Free admission. cityofkeller.com/visit-play/special-events.

Organizers recommend wearing green to a St. Pawtricks Day Pawty from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Barney Wood Bark Park in Farmers Branch. The citys animal shelter will hand out swag and information, and Nuevo Leon Mex Mex Restaurant will sell soft drinks, wine, beer and food. There will also be dog-friendly vendors. 14090 Heartside Place. Free, with donations collected for the dog park. farmersbranch.dog.

There will be some extra fun at this years North Texas Irish Festival: a lure course. Along with the traditional food, entertainment and activities, dozens of area rescue groups will be doing adoptions in the Grand Building, and vendors will sell doggy treats and more. From 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday and 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sunday in Fair Park. Free until 7 Friday, $10 after; $20 Saturday; $20 Sunday; free for kids under 12; $1 per pet (benefits animal rescue efforts). All breeds are welcome as long as they are well-behaved, picked up after and on a short leash. For a schedule, go to ntif.org.

More fun at Mutts (details above): They will kick off a series of free monthly yoga sessions at 10 a.m. Saturday.

The Texas Humane Legislation Network will host Coffee, Donuts and Dogs at 10 a.m. Saturday at Humane Tomorrows new headquarters in Argyle. The lineup includes honoring Representatives Jeff Leach, Tan Parker and Matt Shaheen for supporting the groups mission and a discussion of ways to help Texas animals. There will also be tours, and coffee and donuts will be served. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. 1961 E. Hickory Hill Road. Free. facebook.com/HumaneTomorrow.

Dirty Burger Bar at The Shacks at Austin Ranch will host Yoga Poses With Pups at 10 a.m. Saturday (weather permitting). Youll need to bring your own mat for the one-hour class, which is pooch-friendly. 5804 Windhaven Parkway in The Colony. $15, with part of the proceeds going to Shilohs Road to Hope; includes a discount wristband for Dirty Burger Bar and Tackle Box Seafood. Reserve a spot by calling 469-731-5222. facebook.com/dirtyburgerbartheshacks.

The annual Helpful Honda monthlong campaign to help area pets find homes is continuing with the group matching the SPCA of Texas adoption fees over the next three weekends. The association of area dealers will also donate supplies to the city shelters in Fort Worth and North Richland Hills. facebook.com/NTXHondaDealers.

Picture Perfect Pet Photography will take St. Patricks Day portraits from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Buick GMC of Plano. 6425 Dallas Parkway. Free, with donations collected for Take Me Home Pet Rescue. facebook.com/pictureperfectpetphotography2019.

Also dog-friendly Saturday: a free Landscaping With Edible Plants class at Marshall Grain in Grapevine, the Boho Market at TUPPS Brewery in McKinney and TEXFest in Carrollton.

Artists for Animals annual Concert for Kindness is from 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday at Moody Performance Hall. The evening of music, photography and art will raise money for homeless pets. This years beneficiaries are Dallas Cat Lady, Paws in the City and the Love Pit. Professional musicians will perform, and there will be food, beverages and a silent auction. Except for some adoptable VIPs, its for the two-leggers only. 2520 Flora St. Get your tickets, which are $100, at artistsforanimalstx.com.

More fun at Homegrown Hounds (details above): Their monthly Cooking for Your Dog at Home class is at 3 p.m. Sunday. $30 per family (includes food to take home). Dogs are welcome. Space is limited. Sign up at homegrownhoundfood.com. And they will host a St. Puptricks Day Yappy Hour from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday. A drinking contest at 7:30 will see which four-legger in small, medium and large brackets can down chicken broth the fastest. The party will also include a costume contest at 7 and free green beer and snacks for the two-leggers. You can also BYOB. Free.

More meet and greets (dogs are welcome at all): Allie's Haven Animal Rescue at the Three Dog Bakery in Fort Worth from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday. ... The Humane Society of North Texas at the Petcos in North Fort Worth and Watauga from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. ... Tails From the Heart Rescue at the Hollywood Feed in Allen from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. ... Dallas Street Dog Advocates at the Hollywood Feed in Richardson from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. ... Straydog.org at the PetSmart in Garland from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. ... Legacy Humane Society at the Petco in Allen from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. ... No Borders Bulldog Rescue at Trinity River Distillery in Fort Worth from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday. ... DFW Rescue Me at Panther Island Pavilion in Fort Worth from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday. ... Rockwall Pets at the Petco in Rockwall from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturdays and 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays. ... The Greyhound Adoption League of Texas at the Orvis in Dallas from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the Three Dog Bakery in Arlington from 1 to 3 p.m., both Saturday. ... Bull luv able Paws and Chi Wawas Rescue at the Hollywood Feed on Abrams from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Click here for the list of rescue groups that will be at the North Texas Irish Festival (details above).

Mansfield is offering a Bark Ranger certification class from 2 to 3:15 p.m. next Friday at Oliver Nature Park. In addition to talking about outdoor safety and how you and your pet can become park stewards, they will create a keepsake. Upon completion of the training, you and your pet will receive a certificate, an honorary Bark Ranger dog tag, a collapsible bowl and treats. Then they will hit the trails to show off your new skills. Dont have a dog? You can participate with a shelter dog. Future dates are April 2 and 18 (times vary). One dog per registered adult, and they must be on a fixed leash. Bring a current rabies certificate. $12. Register at olivernaturepark.com.

Coming up: dachshund meetups at Mutts in Dallas and Fort Worth on March 16; a screening of Best in Show at Mutts in Dallas and Fort Worth on March 20; the Puptopia Festival at Main Street Garden, a St. Paw-tricks Day Party at the Shacks at Austin Ranch in The Colony and the first of four weekly Barks & Rec runs in Mansfields Rose Park on March 21; Mutt Madness at the Stoneleigh on March 22; Paws in the Park at Lewisvilles Railroad Park, AIDS Walk South Dallas and Willow Bark in Willow Park on March 28; Dog Bowl in Fair Park on March 29; Paws in the Park in Keller on April 19; the Barks & Rec 5K at Mansfields Rose Park on April 25; Dallas Pets Alives annual Pup Crawl on May 2; the SPCA of Texas Strut Your Mutt on May 9.

Send tips for B.K. on dog-friendly happenings and places to twoldt@dallasnews.com. Find more by searching for Dog About Town on Facebook, where we post event photos, and next Saturday in Briefing and at dallasnews.com. To subscribe, call 214-977-8333 or go to dallasnews.com/briefing. You can also follow us on Twitter at @Dog_About_Town and Instagram at bk_dog_about_town.

Dog-friendly patios

Note: Dog-friendly dining is outdoors and can depend on several factors, including the weather, how busy the restaurant is and who is working. Call ahead if you need to know for sure whether they can accommodate you. Please send additions or changes to twoldt@dallasnews.com.

* means it has received the citys dog-friendly patio variance (available in Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, Carrollton, Fairview, Arlington, Flower Mound, Frisco, Lewisville, Euless and McKinney). The rules: Dogs must stay off furniture, be leashed and under control and wear a rabies tag. They cannot eat off the establishments dishes; they may be given water in a disposable container.

Weatherized means the patio is tented and/or uses heat lamps when it gets chilly.

Click here for a Google Sheets version of this list. Many thanks to pack member Stephanie Meeks for putting it together.

Alcove Wine Bar*: 2907 State St., Dallas, 214-871-2200

AllGood Cafe: 2934 Main St., Dallas, 214-742-5362

America Gardens: 2833 Morton St., Fort Worth, 972-802-2242

Americas Best Coffee: 1211 Debbie Lane, Mansfield, 817-473-8455

Angelinas Mexican Restaurant*: 4851 Main St., The Colony, 972-625-5372

Antebellum Ale House: 321 E. Oak St., Weatherford, 817-341-6625

Antonio Ristorante: 4985 Addison Circle, Addison, 972-458-1010

Anvil Pub: 2638 Elm St., Dallas, 214-741-1271

Ascension Coffee: 1621 Oak Lawn Ave., Dallas, 214-741-3211

Asian Mint*: 5450 W. Lovers Lane, Dallas, 214-904-1055

Back 9: 4060 Belt Line Road, Addison, 214-272-7028

BackYard on Bell: 410 N. Bell Ave., Denton, 940-243-4990

Banditos: 6615 Snider Plaza, Dallas, 214-750-6100

Barcadia* (except when crowded): 1917 N. Henderson Ave., Dallas, 214-821-7300

Barley House*: 5612 SMU Blvd., Dallas, 214-824-0306

Barrel & Bones*: 2801 Plano Parkway, The Colony, 469-353-8810

Bartaco: 6130 Luther Lane, Dallas, 469-405-8226

Bavarian Grill: 221 W. Parker Road, Plano, 972-881-0705

bbbop Seoul Kitchen: 828 W. Davis St.* , Dallas, 469-248-3702

Becks Prime: 5931 Forest Lane* , Dallas, 972-661-8681

Bellagreen: 8041 Walnut Hill Lane (The Hill), Suite 810, Dallas, 972-639-5164

Beto & Son: 3011 Gulden Lane, Suite 108 (in Trinity Groves), Dallas, 469-249-8590

BFF Asian Grill and Bar: 2150 E. Lamar Blvd., Suite 100, Arlington, 817-385-0760; and 1601 E. Debbie Lane, Suite 2105, Mansfield, 817-473-7233

Bird Cafe: 155 E. Fourth St. (Sundance Square), Fort Worth, 817-332-2473

Bistro 31: 87 Highland Park Village, #200, Dallas, 214-420-3900

Blatt Beer & Table: 7859 Walnut Hill Lane, Dallas, 469-372-2080

Blue Mesa: 14866 Montfort Drive, Addison, 972-934-0165

BoomerJacks (weatherized): The chains patios in Bedford, Grapevine, Murphy, North Arlington, South Arlington, Fort Worth Cityview, North Fort Worth and West 7th welcome dogs, and most are big, lined with TVs, have outdoor bars and are cooled and heated.

Bowen House: 2614 Boll St., Dallas, 214-484-1385

Bowlounge*: 167 Turtle Creek Blvd., Dallas, 214-741-7737

BrainDead Brewing*: 2625 Main St., Dallas, 469-286-9005

Bread Winners Cafe and Bakery: 3301 McKinney Ave.* , Dallas, 214-754-4940; and 5560 W. Lovers Lane* , #260, Dallas, 214-351-3339

Brewed: 801 W. Magnolia Ave., Fort Worth, 817-945-1545

Brewn Blues Coffee House: 841 N. Tarrant Parkway, #100, Keller, 817-485-0909

Brix Bar & Grill*: 1410 K Ave., #1109A, Plano, 972-509-2749

Bryan Street Tavern: 4315 Bryan St., Dallas, 214-821-4447

Buffalo West: 7101 W. Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, 817-732-2370

Buffalo Wild Wings: 1400 S. Loop 288, #110, Denton, 940-387-0924

Burguesa Burger: 710 Fort Worth Ave., Dallas, 214-748-7376

Buzzbrews: 2300 Victory Park Lane* , Dallas, 214-871-2301; 5815 Live Oak St.* , #102, Dallas, 214-370-5815; 4154 N. Central Expressway* , Dallas, 214-826-7100; ; and 2801 Commerce St.* (in Deep Ellum), Dallas, 214-741-2801

Cadillac Pizza Pub: 112 S. Kentucky St., McKinney, 972-547-3833

Caf Brazil*: Great people watching, and its open 24/7. 3851 Cedar Springs Road, Dallas, 214-461-8762

Cafe de France: 17370 Preston Road, Dallas, 972-733-3400

Cafe Gecko: 5290 Belt Line Road, Addison, 972-458-9884; 6145 Windhaven Parkway* , Plano, 972-797-7726; and 1381 W. Campbell Road, Richardson, 972-373-4359

Cafe Intermezzo: 7401 Lone Star Drive, Suite B100 (Shops at Legacy), Plano, 470-322-4204

Cafe Istanbul: 7300 Lone Star Drive, Suite C160 (Shops at Legacy), Plano, 972-398-2020

Cajun Place: 190 E. Stacy Road., Suite 1320 (Village at Allen), Allen, 972-678-4550

Campisis: 1520 Elm St., Dallas, 214-752-0141; and 2115 Summer Lee Drive, Rockwall, 469-402-2603

Campuzano Mexican Food*: 2618 Oak Lawn Ave., Dallas, 214-526-0100

Cane Rosso: 2612 Commerce St.* , Dallas, 214-741-1188; 7328 Gaston Ave., Dallas, 214-660-3644; 1301 S. Broadway St.* , Carrollton, 214-731-6402; and 815 W. Magnolia Ave., Fort Worth, 817-922-9222

Cantina Laredo: 4546 Belt Line Road, Addison, 972-458-0962

Caves Lounge: 900 W. Division St., Arlington, 817-460-5510

Cedar Springs Tap House*: 4123 Cedar Springs Road, Suite 100, Dallas, 214-377-7446

Celebration*: 4503 W. Lovers Lane, Dallas, 214-351-5681

Celt Irish Pub*: 100 N. Tennessee St., McKinney, 972-562-2929

Chadra Mezza: 1622 Park Place Ave., Fort Worth, 817-924-2372

Chan Thai: 312 W. Seventh St., Dallas, 214-948-9956

Charlies Creole Kitchen: 2129 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 214-821-8890

Chat Room: 1263 W. Magnolia Ave., Fort Worth, 817-922-8319

Chef Point: Four-leggers are welcome on the covered patio at this foodie favorite located in a gas station. 5901 Watauga Road, Watauga, 817-656-0080

Chelsea Corner: 4830 McKinney Ave., Dallas, 469-726-2211

Chicken Scratch/the Foundry* (weatherized): 2303 Pittman St., Dallas, 214-749-1112

Chill Sports Bar: 814 S. Main St., Grapevine, 817-310-0004

Chop House Burger*: 1501 Main St., Dallas, 214-741-2747

Chop Shop Sports Garage: 2661 Midway Road, Suite 109, Carrollton, 972-525-4753

Chuggin Monk: 3619 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 972-807-9329

Chuys: 4544 McKinney Ave., Dallas, 214-559-2489

CiboDivino Marketplace*: 1868 Sylvan Ave. (Sylvan | Thirty), Dallas, 214-653-2426

Clutch*: 2520 Cedar Springs Road, Dallas, 972-979-3460

Coffee House Cafe* (weatherized): 6150 Frankford Road, Dallas, 972-232-2333

Cold Beer Co.*: 3600 Main St., Dallas, 214-370-9301

Community Beer Co.: 1530 Inspiration Drive, Dallas, 214-751-7921

Company Cafe*: 2104 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 214-827-2233

Cork & Growler: 8979 FM423, Suite 100, Frisco, 469-980-7499

Corner Market: Dogs are also welcome in their adjoining flower/gift shop. 3426 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 214-826-8282

Costa Vida: 5615 Colleyville Blvd., Suite 390, Colleyville, 817-656-1700

Cotton Patch Cafe: 190 E. Stacy Road, Suite 1108 (Village at Allen), Allen, 972-678-4105

See the original post:
Dog About Town: Strut your love for your pooch and more things to do - The Dallas Morning News

Fever 333 dropped a rallying cry of a new song called "Presence Is Strength" on Tuesday (March 3), and the politically charged track was recorded and released in just 24 hours. Not only that, but the band's high-energy frontman, Jason Aalon Butler, released a solo tune called "Bulletproof" at the same time.

Fans paying attention to Butler's Instagram Story early in the week were privy to the process behind Fever 333's latest anthem. On Monday (March 2), the singer shared videoswhile recording his vocal takes accompanied by bandmates Stephen Harrison, Aric Improta and producer John Feldmann.

Listen to both songs down toward the bottom of this post.

On Monday,Butler explained the thought process behind recording and releasing the fresh Fever 333 song within a day. Motivated by Super Tuesday's presidential primary elections in the United States, the activist frontman indicated that the effort would arrive in time for the primaries the following day.

When it did, listeners found the single sharing sonic space with "Bulletproof," a new solo selection from Butler himself. A bit slower paced than "Presence Is Strength," the song still presents the musician's signature rhythmic singing style amid a soundscape of distorted instruments and propulsive percussion.

Butler highlighted both tracks with a statement on Wednesday (March 4), saying he felt that each song was "more than just music.""Presence Is Strength" follows 2019's non-album Fever 333 singles, "Vandals" and "Kingdom." The band's debut albumStrength in Numb333rswas released in January oflast year.

I've been working as hard as possible on being as creative, inspired, artistically courageous and as efficient as possible. Yesterday I released two tracks I had a hand in making (solo + @fever333 one of them was written recorded mixed mastered and released in 24 hours. Due to the process, I feel they were more than just music. I feel they exhibit the capabilities we have and what we can achieve even when it seems like something we can't or even something we 'shouldn't'. The only way I could have accomplished getting these tracks out was to believe I could and that I should. So that's what I did. I guess what I'm trying to say is please do not allow these limiting constructs that have been put in place new you from at least fuckin trying to make shit happen. Create. Attempt. Dare. Risk. Whatever we can do a lot more than they've led us to believe. Let's do it. Whatever it is.

Fever 333, "Presence Is Strength"

Jason Aalon Butler, "Bulletproof"

See Fever 333 in the 50 Best Rock Albums of 2019

View original post here:
Fever 333 Record + Release New Song in a 24-Hour Period - Loudwire

The Grammy-winning bluegrass band The Steep Canyon Rangers (from left to right, Mike Ashworth, Nicky Sanders, Mike Guggino, Woody Platt, Barrett Smith, Graham Sharp) call Asheville, N.C., home. (Courtesy Steep Canyon Rangers)(Photo: David J. Simchock)

The Grammy-winning bluegrass band Steep Canyon Rangers began playing together as students at University of North Carolina. Since 2009, they have worked with comedian and banjo player Steve Martin. They've put out two albums with Martin while also recordingtheir own. "Be Still Moses," recorded with the Asheville Symphony, is the band's latest release.

The Steep Canyon Rangers call Asheville, N.C., home. The group's banjo player, Graham Sharp, talked to The American South about where he goes in Asheville when he's not on the road:

Situated along the railroad tracks in the River Arts District, Wedge Brewing Company is located in the bottom level of Wedge Studios, a haven for artistic types.(Photo: Anne Roderique-Jones)

Asheville is absolutely covered up with breweries. It's kind of the Milwaukee of the South, I guess. There's enough breweries that they're pretty varied. When my kids were younger, we used to love this place called The Wedge Brewery, which is right by the train tracks. They'd set the kids up with a bucket of peanuts. The kids could sit out there and watch the trains go by while the adults could relax.

37 Paynes Way, 828.505.2792

Challenge your taste buds at Wicked Weed's tap room.(Photo: Wicked Weed Brewing)

They've done really well. It's so cool, because one of the guys who started and owns it had a gutter cleaning service and he used to come clean my gutters. They make all these weird sour beers. They're constantly unveiling new stuff. I don't think it's for everybody, but if you're into those then it's gotta be about the best place on earth.

91 Biltmore Ave., 828.575.9599

Nine Mile in West Asheville.(Photo: Angela Wilhelm/awilhelm@citizen-times.com)

It fits with the sort of the hippie vibe of Asheville. It's kind of Jamaican, but it covers a lot of ground. I get the Soul Rebel, which is salmon with a curry and a chutney. The owner's son runs on the cross country team with my son. These are people, like the guy at Wicked Weed, that you see around town, and I try to support them.

233 Montford Ave., 828.505.3121; 751 Haywood Road, 828.575.9903; 33 Town Square Blvd., 828.676.1807

Tastee Diner on Haywood Road in West Asheville offers breakfast, lunch and dinner.(Photo: Angela Wilhelm, /awilhelm@citizen-times.com)

It has really simple diner food, but you can also get a bourbon milkshake if you want it. It's a breakfast all-day place. Or if I want to meet up with somebody, sit down and have a good working man's cup of coffee.

575 Haywood Road, 828.412.5566

Getting' down at the Double Crown. The West Asheville music hall and New Orleans-themed bar celebrates its first birthday this weekend.(Photo: Steve Mann, Asheville Scene)

It's like the world's best dive bar. They'll have gospel night once a month with music in a style from the upstate of South Carolina and North Carolina. These gospel groups come in and rock this dive bar. On Wednesdays, you can go in and hear these cats playing this unbelievable honky tonk music. The whole place is up dancing and two-stepping.

375 Haywood Road, 828.412.5491

To learn more about Steep Canyon Rangers and their upcoming shows, visit http://www.steepcanyon.com.

News tips? Story ideas? Questions? Call reporter Todd Price at 504-421-1542 or email him at taprice@gannett.com.

Read or Share this story: https://www.theadvertiser.com/story/news/american-south/2020/03/06/steep-canyon-rangers-guide-asheville-beer/4797329002/

Original post:
This bluegrass band has a guide to Asheville you don't want to miss - Daily Advertiser

I Google Image searched Craig Spencer. I didnt recognize him from the night before; he looked like so many people who had been at the bar that night. News articles said his Ebola test was still being processed.

When I arrived outside my boyfriends office, he tried to hug me. I backed away, feeling somewhat virtuous for doing so, as I could have used a hug.

Youre not going to give me Ebola just by hugging me. I dont think thats how Ebola works, he said.

Are you sure? I asked.

He wasnt, so I didnt hug him. Just to be safe. We decided the best course of action was to go home and call his mother, a physician, for advice.

While waiting for our Uber, we ducked into the lobby of an upscale seafood restaurant on 19th Street. The airy wooden dining room was filled with what now seemed like creatures from another planet: carefree New Yorkers in business attire, hoisting bulbous glasses of chardonnay to their lips. I couldnt help imagining all of those diners bleeding from their eyeballs. I chastised myself for being so dramatic, and then defended myself to myself. After all, if there had ever been a time for drama, this was it.

Meanwhile, our Uber driver couldnt seem to locate us, so my boyfriend canceled the car. Perhaps, I thought, the driver just unwittingly saved his own life.

We flagged down a cab. As we got in, I felt a flash of sympathy for the driver. I rationalized that at least I was exposing only one more person to my deadly Ebola, not an entire subway car full of people. After we gave the driver our address, I recorded his medallion number in my phone. Just to be safe.

Read: The quiet end to the U.S. ebola panic

During that cab ride home, my anxiety reached its apex. I tried to separate paranoia from reasonable worry, which was not possible, so my mind kept pinging around with nowhere to land. My boyfriend was behaving strangely because he was frightenedfor me? for himself? both?which scared me even more. As we crossed the Williamsburg Bridge, my Google search finally turned up the headline Id been looking for: Dr. Craig Spencer had tested positive for Ebola. The news was a punch to the gut. Ebola had infiltrated New York City.

At home, we called my boyfriends mother. I felt guilty calling her; she and I got along fine, but here I was, thrusting her son into the path of danger. Her brisk tones were an immediate salve. She was laughing.

Its ridiculous they closed the bar, she said. No one who was there last night is in any danger. I mean, maybe if you cleaned his blood off the bar. Or if you cleaned a toilet he used with your bare hands. A thousand tiny muscles in my jaw unclenched as I told her Id done no such thing. Ebola isnt easy to catch, she assured me. Even when the patient is contagious. And if he only got a fever today, he wasnt contagious last night. Theres zero risk.

Excerpt from:
The Paralyzing Uncertainty of Not Knowing Whether Youll Get Sick - The Atlantic

- Advertisement -

Robert Kotei, a fisherman was charged to clean a portion of the Mamprobi drains after he was caught openly defecating in broad daylight.

READ ALSO: GES blame poor BECE results on Free SHS and teacher absenteeism

The Environmental Health Team, who caught him in the act of openly defecating in the gutter by the Korle-Gonno and Chorkor road in the early hours of 10 am tasked him to clean the drains.

He was given two options to choose from when he was caught either to immediately choose between Court action and cleaning the entire section of the drain. He chose the latter.

Speaking to the Environmental Health Team, he explained though there was a toilet facility in his community, he decided on the gutter because he was miles away from home.

READ ALSO: List of the 75 countries affected by the deadly Coronavirus and the number of cases confirmed

Robert Kotei expected to clean the Mamprobi drain for a whole week after which he will weed the environment.

See original here:
Man forced to clean choked drains after he was caught openly defecating at Mamprobi - GHPAGE

Experience the Superior Quality That Only Westchester Can Provide

Westchester Modular Homes is proud to introduce their new line of Craftsman Series Ranches as inspired by the handcrafted arts and design movement of the late 19th century. Keeping in line with the original architectural design of blending the home into the natural environment, the Westchester Craftsman Series incorporates all of the handcrafted charm of yesterday coupled with today's demand for open floor plans, modern amenities and high quality construction.

The Craftsman Series features 3 bedroom, 2 bath floor plans and offers low maintenance, one-level living. With the welcoming appeal of large front porches, 9/12 roof pitches, architectural shingles, dormers, and an abundance of natural light, these homes are functional, yet spacious, and provide the new owners a comfortable home with a warm, cozy cottage feel. These ranch homes include the highest quality Westchester standards such as Mainstreet and Northwoods CertainTeed siding with upgrade trim, dramatic 24 inch gable end overhangs and Andersen windows at no additional cost. In addition, many premium options are available to make your home truly unique and include cathedral ceilings, decks, fireplaces, Corian countertops and tile and hardwood floors.

We invite you to step back to another era of old-world craftsmanship and attention to detail. Now's your opportunity to experience a home with ample charm and plenty of living space. Let our expert team show you how Westchester builds traditional style and exceptional quality into these comfortable ranches you'll want to call home.

Renderings shown with optional features not included in the base price. Please consult your Independent Westchester Modular Home Builder for more details.

Craftsmen Series Brochure (PDF)

Renderings shown with optional features not included in the base price. Please consult with your Independent Westchester Modular Home builder for more details.

See original here:
Craftsman Style Modular Homes | Westchester Modular Homes

The latest research report on the Modular Building market. An in-depth examination of this business 360 and is inclusive of information pertaining to vital parameters of the industry. The report provides details about the prevailing market trends, market share, industry size, current market growth, periodic deliverables, and profits projections over the forecast to 2026.

Key highlights of the Modular Building market report: Laing Orourke, Red Sea Housing, Atco, Bouygues Construction, Vinci, Skanska, Algeco Scotsman, Kleusberg, Kef Katerra, Lendlease, Cimc Modular Building Systems Holding, Modular Space Corporation, Dubox, Kwikspace Modular Buildings, Guerdon Enterprises LLC, Alta-Fab Structures, Westchester Modular Homes, Wernick Group, Fleetwood Australia, NRB, Koma Modular, Hickory Group, Clayton Homes, J.D. Irving, Horizon North Logistics, Arts Way Manufacturing, and more.

Get the FREE sample copy of this report at: https://inforgrowth.com/sample-request/4438741/modular-building-market

Key parameters included in the report which define the competitive landscape:

Global Modular Building Market Size Segmentation by Type:

Global Modular Building Market Segmentation by Application:

Get the Special Month Discount at: https://inforgrowth.com/discount/4438741/modular-building-market

Global Modular Building market report provides an exclusive coverage which has been provided for market drivers and challenges & opportunities for a country-level market in the respective regional segments. The report comprises a competitive analysis of the key players functioning in the market and covers in-depth data related to the competitive landscape of the market and the recent strategies & products that will assist or affect the market in the coming years.

The study also illustrates the competitive landscape of foremost manufacturers in the industry with their diverse portfolio and geographical expansion activities. The Modular Building market report by InForGrowth also includes participants financial overview which consists of an assessment of revenue outcomes, sales volume, gross margin, cash flow, capital investment, and growth rate which will allow clients to gain intact knowledge of participants financial strengths and position in the global Modular Building industry.

Key highlights of the Modular Building market report:

Download the PDF Brochure of this Report at: https://inforgrowth.com/enquiry/4438741/modular-building-market

See the original post here:
Modular Building Market Report 2020 With Market Positioning Of Key Vendors: Laing O'rourke, Red Sea Housing, Atco, Bouygues Construction,etc - News...

DALTON, GA / ACCESSWIRE / March 5, 2020 / The Dixie Group, Inc. (DXYN) today reported financial results for the year ended December 28, 2019. For 2019, the Company had net sales of $374,582,000 as compared to $405,033,000 in 2018. The profit from continuing operations for 2019 was $15,619,000 or $0.95 per diluted share, as compared to a loss from continuing operations of $21,479,000 in 2018. Net income for the year of 2019 was $15,271,000. For the quarter, the profit from continuing operations was $26,019,000 or $1.60 per diluted share. On a non-GAAP basis, as shown on the attached schedule, the results from continuing operations for the fourth quarter was a profit of $1,182,000 or $0.07 per diluted share.

In the fourth quarter of 2019, we sold our Susan Street facility and signed a lease with options for a period of up to twenty years. The gain on the sale was approximately $25 million, or over $1.50 per share. Our senior credit facility was paid down by $36 million as a result of the sale. Our total debt reduction from the third quarter of 2018 through the end of 2019 has been over $50 million. Our total stockholders' equity increased 50% over the third quarter of 2019.

Commenting on the results, Daniel K. Frierson, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "2019 was a year of change for both Dixie and the industry. The residential soft surface business was impacted by the weakness in soft floorcovering for the industry. The residential soft surface market was down high-single digits in 2019 relative to 2018. We also saw substantial changes in the mass merchant channel as these retailers shifted more floor space to hard surface products.

This emphasis by our mass merchant customer impacted our sales in the second half of the year. Despite the decline in our mass merchant sales, we outpaced the market in the specialty retail segment, where our soft surface sales declined low to mid single digits and our hard surface sales grew by approximately 50%. At Surfaces, our national industry trade show, we featured around 50 new styles in soft surface, including STAINMASTER, EnVision 6,6, and Strongwool. We continue to be a leading manufacturer in STAINMASTER carpet and are proud to launch some of the most unique and beautiful STAINMMASTER products on the market. We are also taking steps to diversify our offering with our new EnVision 6,6 program, which we initially launched in late 2018 and saw significant traction and growth in 2019. In 2020 we have 17 new styles in EnVision 6,6, across all our divisions. In our Masland Energy line, we are adding new products in broadloom and tile addressing some key opportunities in that program. We are featuring a patent pending yarn innovation, Colorplay, in a new PetProtect product named Grace, in our Masland product line. This Colorplay innovation gives us a unique color story for solution dyed nylon, with natural striations across 16 different colors. We are very excited about a new tufting technology, "TECHnique", which is being showcased in our Masland and Fabrica lines. TECHnique delivers a woven visual with a crisp clean finish and products that are more work of art than floor covering.

We have continued to focus on growing our luxury vinyl flooring business. With the successful launch of TRUCOR and TRUCOR Prime we are poised to continue the substantial growth we achieved in 2019. We are growing the number of items in our TRUCOR family of products by over 40%. We are building out our TRUCOR SPC program with updated visuals and new sizes in our 5", 7" and 9" wide plank and tile programs. We are featuring a new innovation in tile, "Integrated Grout Technology" where the locking system is engineered to simulate a real grout line. We are launching this integrated grout program with 12 beautiful visuals in multiple sizes including exquisite 24"x 24" Carrara marble designs. We are launching our new TRUCOR Prime WPC program, including 18 oversized planks in contemporary, clean visuals. The feature product in this offering is our XXL plank, 10 inches wide and 84 inches long, inspired by high end French Oak visuals. This is the longest and widest rigid core plank product on the market. We

are expanding our Fabrica wood program with nine new products including European White Oak and American Hickory. This enhancement will give us colors, finishes, and price points to continue growing this new offering in our Fabrica

Story continues

division. To accelerate this growth, we are adding dedicated sales representatives to our residential sales team to focus exclusively on our hard surface products under our Fabrica, Masland and Dixie Home brands.

In 2019, we completed the realignment of our commercial business. Our commercial soft surface sales for the year were down over 12% while the commercial soft floorcovering market, we believe, was down marginally. Despite the drop in business, we feel that we have positioned Atlas | Masland Contract for growth with one of the most extensive product lines in the commercial business. As we have merged the two commercial businesses into Atlas | Masland Contract, we are positioned with our complete line of broadloom carpet, modular carpet tile, luxury vinyl flooring and commercial rugs to service our customers with excellent service and cutting edge design from our focused operational facilities dedicated to the commercial marketplace. As part of this broad product line, we have introduced one of the most unique innovations: Crafted Collection with Sustaina backing. This environmentally conscious and installer friendly product line comes in a beautiful set of patterns. The Sustaina modular tile backing system is a PVC and polyurethane free cushion modular carpet tile backing with very high recycled content. The product is breathable and able to be installed in environments up to 99% relative humidity and up to a pH of 12 when utilizing our custom formulated Sustaina 99 adhesive. Crafted collection along with our Sustaina backing has an 81.5% total recycled content, the highest available on the market today. This product innovation differentiates us in the market to our environmentally conscious designers and commercial customers.

We completed our Profit Improvement Plan in 2019. Since the beginning of 2017, this plan cost over $18 million to implement and generated over $18 million in annual savings relative to our 2017 cost structure. As part of this plan we have shut down or realigned five plants.Throughout the implementation of this plan our cost of quality has been reduced by over 25%. Our headcount has been reduced by 20% since the beginning of 2018. The combination of the sale of our Susan Street facility and reduction in our working capital has reduced our debt by over $50 million. The reduction in working capital has come about from a focused just in time planning and scheduling system. In addition to the Profit Improvement Plan, in 2020 we anticipate cost reductions, including changes in our medical plans, raw material reductions and savings in processing of over $5 million per year as we continue to work to restore our margins to acceptable levels.

We are excited to celebrate 100 years in business in 2020. Over our 100-year history, the company has transformed itself again and again. From cotton yarns to textile synthetic yarns, then to carpet yarns. Then from a yarn supplier to carpet manufacturer, and today we continue the transformation to a full service floor covering provider with a growing hard surface program. We are proud of our history and heritage, and we are excited about starting the next 100 years as a company," Frierson concluded.

Our gross profit margin for the year was 23.0% for 2019, up from our 21.5% gross profit margin in 2018. Our selling and administrative expenses for the year were 22.4% of net sales, a decrease of 0.4 percentage points from our level of 22.8% in 2018. Our gross profit was negatively impacted by $5.6 million in restructuring and inventory write downs taken during the year as part of our Profit Improvement Plan (the Plan"). Despite this difficult year from a profitability perspective, we have put in place the foundation of operational capabilities that should benefit us in the future.

Our receivables decreased $5.4 million as compared to the end of the year in 2018, primarily due to our reduction in sales for the period. Net inventories declined $9.7 million during the year. Net of adjustments related to the new lease standard implemented in 2019, our accounts payable and accrued expenses declined by $6.6 million year over year. Our capital expenditures for the full year of 2019 were $4.5 million and are planned for 2020 at a maintenance level of approximately $5.0 million. Interest expense was $6.4 million for the year of 2019 and our debt decreased by $39.7 million during the year. Our availability at the end of the year was $18.8 million under our bank lines of credit.

As the year 2020 began, business activity was slow and behind the levels of last year. Fortunately, as the quarter progressed, order activity and sales have improved. Sales and orders in February have improved significantly and are above the level of last year. We have experienced improvement in both the residential retail and commercial business, however, our mass merchant sales continue to underperform. For the quarter to date, excluding our mass merchant sales, our sales are slightly behind this same period in 2019.

A listen-only Internet simulcast and replay of Dixie's conference call may be accessed with appropriate software at the Company's website at http://www.thedixiegroup.com. The simulcast will begin at approximately 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time on March 5, 2020. A replay will be available approximately two hours later and will continue for approximately 30 days. If Internet access is unavailable, a listen-only telephonic conference will be available by dialing (877) 407-0989 and entering 13698022 at least 10 minutes before the appointed time.

The Dixie Group (www.thedixiegroup.com) is a leading marketer and manufacturer of carpet and rugs to higher-end residential and commercial customers through the Fabrica International, Masland Carpets, Dixie Home, Atlas | Masland Contract and Dixie International brands.

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates, projections, beliefs and assumptions of management and the Company at the time of such statements and are not guarantees of performance. Forward-looking statements are subject to risk factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in such forward-looking statements. Such factors include the levels of demand for the products produced by the Company. Other factors that could affect the Company's results include, but are not limited to, availability of raw material and transportation costs related to petroleum prices, the cost and availability of capital, integration of acquisitions, ability to attract, develop and retain qualified personnel and general economic and competitive conditions related to the Company's business. Issues related to the availability and price of energy may adversely affect the Company's operations. Additional information regarding these and other risk factors and uncertainties may be found in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements based on the occurrence of future events, the receipt of new information, or otherwise.

THE DIXIE GROUP, INC.Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations(unaudited; in thousands, except earnings per share)

NET SALES

Cost of sales

GROSS PROFIT

Selling and administrative expenses

Other operating (income) expense, net

Facility consolidation and severance expenses, net

Impairment of assets

OPERATING INCOME (LOSS)

Interest expense

Other (income) expense, net

Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes

Income tax provision (benefit)

Income (loss) from continuing operations

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

NET INCOME (LOSS)

BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE:

Continuing operations

Discontinued operations

Net income (loss)

DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE:

Continuing operations

Discontinued operations

Net income (loss)

Weighted-average shares outstanding:

Basic

Diluted

THE DIXIE GROUP, INC.Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets(in thousands)

ASSETS

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Receivables, net

Inventories, net

Prepaid expenses

Total Current Assets

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net

Operating Lease Right-Of-Use Assets

Other Assets

TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Current Liabilities

Accounts payable

Accrued expenses

Current portion of long-term debt

Current portion of operating lease liabilities

Total Current Liabilities

Long-Term Debt

Operating Lease Liabilities

Other Long-Term Liabilities

Stockholders' Equity

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information:

(in thousands)

The Company believes that non-GAAP performance measures, which management uses in evaluating the Company's business, may provide users of the Company's financial information with additional meaningful bases for comparing the Company's current results and prior period results, as these measures reflect factors that are unique to one period relative to the comparable period. However, the non-GAAP performance measures should be viewed in addition to, not as an alternative for, the Company's reported results under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. In considering our supplemental financial measures, investors should bear in mind that other companies that report or describe similarly titled financial measures may calculate them differently. Accordingly, investors should exercise appropriate caution in comparing our supplemental financial measures to similarly titled financial measures reported by other companies.

Non-GAAP Summary

Net income as reported

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

Income from continuing operations

Inventory write-downs related to Profit Improvement Plan

Facility consolidation and severance expenses, net

Gain on Sale of Building

Tax effect

Profit Improvement Plan related expenses

Income/Loss

Diluted shares

Adjusted loss per diluted share

Further non-GAAP reconciliation data are available at http://www.thedixiegroup.com under the Investor Relations section.

CONTACT

Allen DanzeyChief Financial Officer706-876-5865allen.danzey@dixiegroup.com

SOURCE: The Dixie Group, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/579153/The-Dixie-Group-Reports-an-Operating-Profit-for-the-Fourth-Quarter-of-2019

See the article here:
The Dixie Group Reports an Operating Profit for the Fourth Quarter of 2019 - Yahoo Finance