TIGHTLY engineered metres of rectified paving and patio are not for everyone. Once resting on a stable base and levelled for safety, more romantic sylvan choices are both beautiful and, incidentally, more nature-friendly.

If you fancy some of the hard stuff, foot-paths in character flags, reclaimed brick and even cobbles setts are within the abilities of most gardeners. Luscious flags can be surrounded by less expensive materials. Leaving gaps between the chosen paving in soft but packed joints will aid draining. Concrete is not even completely necessary, but get familiar with a useful soft mix of sand and aggregate. Explore tutorials online to understand soft and hard bases and joint choices with a little give under pressure.

We cannot have wobbles or uneven ground. Small slippages and movements underfoot can sprain an ankle or pitch a walker into the cotoneaster. Cuddle the paving in to be self-supporting and use a rubber mallet to "thwack" in level annually. Brick laid on a crushed stone base finished in sand and bordered in wood sigh. Complement any existing stonework, favouring the tones of the quarried stone particular to your area. A colour in your garden lichens, its planting, a thread of icy quartz; look for a lead. Slop a little water on potential paving to see its look in the rain mid-tones can go positively black.

Brick paths can go straight down on a soft base, but should be laid to ensure no dangerous wobbles. Stone setts should be 50mm deep if you intend to drive on them. Picture: iStock

Brick houses are beautifully complemented by a little of the red stuff around beds, walls and BBQ areas. Try concrete paving stones mixed back through traditional brick for raised beds and paths; the colours sit up really well against greenery. Reclaimed, porous brick can be easily damaged and commons intended for walling, is suited to foot traffic only. Prices from 2 per reclaimed or new "rustic" brick, and at least 55 per square metre for limestone sets; choose 50mm depths if you ever expect to drive over them.

Cost-effective, attractive and with a firm foothold in a sharper stone, gravel drains superbly and can be refreshed every three to five years depending on foot traffic. The scrunch of gravel is a useful security measure and its especially good going for gripping the tyres of wheelchairs if not laid too deep. Prepare a good, stone or crushed concrete base in a larger size, compacting with a tamping machine or a lot of stamping flat in heavy boots to allow the sub-strata to lock together. Matching this, look for self-binding, angular gravel of 10mm or less, which will again lock into a stable surface, working down into gaps left in the supporting base. A layer of moisture-permeable fabric weed barrier -or two- lapped up on the edging will dissuade plants from coming up through your gravel.

About 10mm self-binding gravel is cheap and versatile, but will work its way into the ground eventually. Picture: Kilsaren

Inevitably, small weeds will find their way into your path in blown-in material, some carried in on any muck left on unwashed stones. Together with hand pulling, we have found rock salt a good alternative to chemical weed-killers for thuggish invaders. Gravel does shift and flow on inclines, and even on flat going should be well contained with upright boundaries and gravel mats where required a brilliant addition on driveways; prices from 8-10 for 25kg bags of washed slate, pebbles, quartz and flints, and far less if bought by the tonne (22 tonne-27 tonne small lorryloads). Unwashed stone of any kind can carry in Japanese Knotweed be wary. Mechanical spreading costs up to 50 per hour or part of an hour.

In a state of decay, mulch terrifies some gardeners, but its a warm, understated, fragrant, inviting pathway between raised beds and looks beautiful against grass or blousy beds. Play grade mulch blankets around 40 -80mm, are soft enough for children to take a tip on without injury or splinters. Strulch (straw mulch) has a golden, very fine appearance, popular in public gardens and parks, but a lesser life than wood of about 2 years. Any chipped wood will do, and mulch is easy to carry and pour out in bagged form, making it ideal for DIY installations and refreshing of around 2.5cm depth per year as it decomposes into the earth. 5cm deep mulch paths can be laid straight on the ground or by taking the topsoil out with a spade in sections to provide a trench, which is again filled with crushed stone or gravel, battered flat. If drainage is an issue in that area go for a sub-strata to hold and sip it away.

To create a pathway start by marking out the direction, shape and any bends with a length of hosepipe and some wooden dowelling. Add L shaped metal or plastic edging or brick if soft edges nip at your nerves. Mulch will ingest a lot of rain, and it is squelchy under boots in very wet weather. 50l bags of Bord na Mona mulch from 7 (Hanleys, Cork), 1 tonne/850l/750kg bag of mulch, 1.5m3, (delivered) from 120 nationwide quickcrop.ie. Strulch, mineralised wheat straw, 2.x 50l bags from 25, fruithillfarm.com

De-lawning might seem an extreme process, but in many gardens green, turf rivers between beds are the only sward that stays. Mown paths can form conjunctions between planting frothing with flowers or slice through the rich biodiversity of a meadow-style planting or a poetic orchard. The use of the mower puts a clean edge on an otherwise-casual landscaping (carefully curated more often than not).

A little tension between the kept and the apparently lovely but unkempt, works well. Green paths can be set with stepping stones or cut into swirls and Celtic strap-work in larger grassland. Try studding the boundary of your clipped grass going with trees or box hedging for added magic and consider allowing traditional flowering weeds a little room. Very cottage garden and lovely for a run with bare feet. The single caveat for grass between the toes is very heavy use (balding and puddling) not quaint.

If your lawn has unpleasant troughs from kids (or adults) springing up the same route or you want a way to circumnavigate a long bed or even loose gravel, step-stones could be just the thing. If youre putting them in the lawn, keep in mind we want them set fairly low so that the machine will skim over them without dinging the blades. You can use naturally occurring flat stone, or buy in flags or concrete pavers or wood rounds in round or angular forms, theres plenty of choice. Just ensure the surface has a non-slip key.

Pace out the area taking easy steps rather than reaching wildly out with your ankle. Laying stones just entails digging a hole about 2cm-3cm deeper than the shape and size of the stone and filling it with sharp sand. Push soil down around the edges with your gloved fingers and trowel after setting the stone and check those levels before riddling in some grass seed or setting in some small plants. For something unusual try winders crescent-shaped pre-formed concrete step stones that sit into each other to form a stacked style step-stone path, great for complex turns. Single natural stone step stones with tumbled edges from 17-20 at good DIY or garden suppliers. Concrete forms from 8 each.

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Take the path less travelled to add interest to your garden - Irish Examiner

Astrophysicians have used AI to find 250 new stars within the Milky Method, which theyimagine had been born outdoors the galaxy.

Caltech researcher Lina Necibnamed the gathering Nyx, afterthe Greek goddess of the evening.She suspects the celebs are remnants of a dwarf galaxy that merged with the Milky Method many moons in the past.

To develop the AI, Necib and her group first tracked stars throughout a simulated galaxy created by the Feedback in Realistic Environments (FIRE) undertaking. They labeled the celebs as both born within the host galaxy, or fashioned by means of galaxy mergers. These labels had been used to coach a deep studying mannequin to identify the place a star was born.

They then utilized the mannequin to information collected by the Gaia satellite tv for pc, which was launched in 2013 to create an in depth 3D map of round 1 billion stars.

[Read:NASA enlists AI in the hunt for ET]

We requested the neural community, Primarily based on what youve discovered, are you able to label if the celebs had been accreted or not? said Necib.

The group first checked if the mannequin might spot identified options within the information, akin to the Gaia sausage,the remnants of a dwarf galaxy that smashed into the Milky Method billions of years in the past. The collision ripped the dwarf aside and scattered its stars into the form of a sausage.

Not solely did the AI detect the distinctive sausage form it additionally discovered the brand new cluster of 250stars.

Your first intuition is that youve a bug, Necib remembered. And also youre like, Oh no! So, I didnt inform any of my collaborators for 3 weeks. Then I began realizing its not a bug, its truly actual and its new.

After confirming that the gathering had by no means been found, Necib received to call it, essentially the most thrilling factor in astrophysics, she stated. Shenow plans to additional discover Nyx, and attempt to work out precisely the place the celebs had been born.

Revealed July eight, 2020 13:58 UTC

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How get notification reminders from the LED and flashlight on your Samsung Galaxy phone - Best gaming pro

Astrophysicians have used AI to find 250 new stars within the Milky Method, which theyimagine had been born outdoors the galaxy.

Caltech researcher Lina Necibnamed the gathering Nyx, afterthe Greek goddess of the evening.She suspects the celebs are remnants of a dwarf galaxy that merged with the Milky Method many moons in the past.

To develop the AI, Necib and her group first tracked stars throughout a simulated galaxy created by the Feedback in Realistic Environments (FIRE) undertaking. They labeled the celebs as both born within the host galaxy, or fashioned by means of galaxy mergers. These labels had been used to coach a deep studying mannequin to identify the place a star was born.

They then utilized the mannequin to information collected by the Gaia satellite tv for pc, which was launched in 2013 to create an in depth 3D map of round 1 billion stars.

[Read:NASA enlists AI in the hunt for ET]

We requested the neural community, Primarily based on what youve discovered, are you able to label if the celebs had been accreted or not? said Necib.

The group first checked if the mannequin might spot identified options within the information, akin to the Gaia sausage,the remnants of a dwarf galaxy that smashed into the Milky Method billions of years in the past. The collision ripped the dwarf aside and scattered its stars into the form of a sausage.

Not solely did the AI detect the distinctive sausage form it additionally discovered the brand new cluster of 250stars.

Your first intuition is that youve a bug, Necib remembered. And also youre like, Oh no! So, I didnt inform any of my collaborators for 3 weeks. Then I began realizing its not a bug, its truly actual and its new.

After confirming that the gathering had by no means been found, Necib received to call it, essentially the most thrilling factor in astrophysics, she stated. Shenow plans to additional discover Nyx, and attempt to work out precisely the place the celebs had been born.

Revealed July eight, 2020 13:58 UTC

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Top 10 Best Loaf Pan With Cover Breads 2020 - Best gaming pro

New commercial

OFFICE BUILDING: 117 E. Broussard Road, Lafayette; Asim Baloch, owner; Weiser Realty, applicant; Keith Bates Construction LLC, contractor; $241,000.

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APARTMENTS: 3600 E. Simcoe St., Lafayette; Riverside at Oakridge Apartments, owner; description, reroof; Abshire Roofing, applicant and contractor; $166,901.

GENERAL RETAIL: 600 Lamar St., Lafayette; Doralene Mary Heber Derenthal, owner; William Yeats, applicant; $0.

HOSPITAL: 4811 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, 401 Lafayette; Park Place Surgical Hospital, owner and applicant; description, neurology suite alteration; Carolyn Stansbury Interiors, contractor; $8,500.

HOSPITAL: 4811 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, 401A, Lafayette; Park Place Surgical Hospital, owner; description, pulmonary suite alteration, fourth floor; Pulmonary LPG Specialty Clinic, applicant; Carolyn Stansbury Interiors, contractor; $31,180.

STORAGE BUILDING: 2300 E. Main St., Broussard; Mike's Marine and ATV, $34,766

New houses

2725 Gendarme Road, Carencro; Manuel Builders; $193,500.

206 Gable Crest Drive, Lafayette; Manuel Builders; $229,500.

310 Stanwell Ave., Lafayette Parish; DSLD LLC; $171,000.

328 Woodrich Lane, Lafayette; Savoski Scott; $274,500.

117 Millie Park Drive, Lafayette; South Louisiana Custom Homes LLC; $193,500.

115 Millie Park Drive, Lafayette; South Louisiana Custom Homes LLC; $193,500.

113 Millie Park Drive, Lafayette; South Louisiana Custom Homes LLC; $193,500.

112 Millie Park Drive, Lafayette; South Louisiana Custom Homes LLC; $193,500.

113 Wild Cherry Lane, Lafayette; DSLD LLC; $319,500.

115 Wild Cherry Lane, Lafayette; DSLD LLC; $216,000.

125 Sparrowhawk St., Broussard; DSLD LLC; $220,500.

128 Sparrowhawk St., Broussard; DSLD LLC; $220,500.

409 Atmos Energy Drive, Lafayette; DSLD LLC; $225,000.

413 Starlight Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $225,000.

411 Starlight Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $207,000.

409 Starlight Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $243,000.

403 Starlight Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $216,000.

402 Begnaud Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $247,500.

421 Starlight Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $171,000.

419 Starlight Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $225,000.

415 Starlight Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $306,000.

416 Starlight Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $216,000.

418 Starlight Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $225,000.

420 Starlight Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $270,000.

109 Woodhollow Drive, Lafayette; Shivers Brothers Construction; $256,500.

201 Woodhollow Drive, Lafayette; Shivers Brothers Construction; $283,500.

401 Norman Drive, Lafayette; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $198,000.

101 New Trails Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $301,500.

109 New Trails Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $310,500.

229 Hapsburg Lane, Lafayette; Manuel Builders; $189,000.

105 New Trails Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $270,000.

107 New Trails Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $270,000.

201 New Trails Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $342,000.

119 Deer Lake Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $252,000.

117 Deer Lake Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $270,000.

115 Deer Lake Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $211,500.

113 Deer Lake Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $279,000.

111 Deer Lake Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $234,000.

107 Deer Lake Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $310,500.

105 Deer Lake Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $342,000.

103 Deer Lake Lane, Youngsville; D R Horton Inc. Gulf Coast; $301,500.

902 North Larrivere, Broussard; AM Design Inc.; $246,450.

302 Habitat Ridge, Broussard; Acadiana Dream Homes LLC; $258,162.

625 Easy Rock Landing, Broussard; Hart Homes LLC; $227,479.

104 Snapping Lane, Broussard; E.J. Rock Construction; $316,145.

The Lafayette Police and Fire departments are conducting random checks of area businesses for compliance with coronavirus safety guidelines.

Blue Dog Caf has closed its doors after 20 years of serving Cajun plates in a restaurant that showcased the artwork of George Rodrigue.

Kara Castille is co-owner of Thee Heavenly Donut, which as two locations in Baton Rouge and will soon open a location in Henderson near the Ca

Fenstermaker has promoted Hannah Link to human resource manager.

Judge Jules Edwards, who has served in the 15th Judicial District Court for 27 years and is a candidate for Lafayette City Court judge in Nove

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Who's building where in Acadiana? Here are the building permits issued June 22-26 - The Advocate

With 44 years of experience representing the Gulf Coast's finest and most distinct properties, we are pleased to introduce these stunning properties and homes for sale.

Artfully designed gardens and grounds

6 beds | 6 baths | 7,799 sq. ft.

Breathtaking Gasparilla Sound views showcase this spectacular Mediterranean estate, poised atop 2 acres. A meandering pebble drive through swaying palms and sparkling ponds leads to the impressive courtyard with tiled fountain. Exquisite interiors feature terracotta tile floors, exposed beams, and rustic arched wooden doors while expansive living areas on every level offer many places for family and friends to gather or relax and take in the stunning water views. 4090 Loomis Ave

The style pure Palm Beach

4 beds | 4 baths | 7,003 sq. ft.

Located on sun-soaked Siesta Key, this waterfront estate pays homage to artistry and craftsmanship. Exquisitely constructed and poised on the protected deep boating waters of Cocoanut Bayou, the appealing layout features imported finishes from Europe, including exotic woods, hand-carved travertine, and antique lighting from the great estates of Palm Beach. French doors open to an alluring loggia that overlooks the water and open-air swimming pool and private dock. 4205 Higel Ave

Gulf-front majesty

4 beds | 4 baths | 4,574 sq. ft.

Nothing stands between you and your view at Siestas Keys newest boutique luxury offering, Oceane. Walls of glass, immense living spaces, and the latest in modern design highlight one of the best views on the island. More than 700 sq. ft. of terrace along more than 70 feet of Gulf of Mexico frontage sets the stage for stunning sunsets accented by the distant twinkle of downtown Sarasota. 4750 Ocean Blvd #101

17th Century-style Tuscan farmhouse

3 beds | 3 baths | 5,099sq. ft.

Lavishly embellished with Old-World authenticity, this custom home built by John Cannon blends craftsmanship with panoramic water views.No detail has been overlooked. Walls have been finished to look like aged plaster; terra cotta floors with hand-made tiles have been acid-washed and stained to look like theyve seen centuries of wear; popular frescoes; and ceiling beams were hand-selected. 315 S Shore Dr

For more information about these properties and to view more Manatee, Charlotte, and Sarasota homes for sale, visit michaelsaunders.com.

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Exquisite Homes. The very best of Gulf Coast Living - YourObserver.com

This installment's timing? Not great! As an eviction/foreclosure crisis looms and human suffering soars to historic levels across the globe due to COVID-19, showcasing the 1 percent's status-flexing lodging choices feels particularly weird.

But the luxury housing market is immune to thetravails of thehoi polloi, chugging right along with eye-popping square footages and asking prices. It has been something of a transition year according to Ross Melby, our trusted Realtor source on the wheelings and dealings of mega-dollar Twin Cities properties.

"Its safe to say 2020 has thrown us for a loop or several," theLakes Sotheby's agent tells us. "The last few years felt like a gold rush, referring to the legendary sales on Lake Minnetonka where we saw unbelievable price tags and land assemblies to drool over... I will go out on a limb and say tone has changed."

That rush cycle has slowed, Melby says, with high-end homes sitting on the market longer but still fetching record prices.... eventually. Buyers are looking for long-term investments, he says, noting an uptick in renovations instead of new constructions. In the age of Coronavirus, clients are seeking convertible spaces like garages with finished office or den spaces up top for holding work-from-home Zoom calls, Melby adds.

"I dont expect any sharp spikes or declines in our market," he says. "We're experiencing a more 'normal' market in the luxury sector."

So far in 2020, 27 metro homes have been sold at the $2 million-plus tier. Those estates, on average, sat on the market for just under a year and closed for $2.8 million. What do the 10 most expensive look like? You might just say, a little something like this...

10. 6000 Fox Meadow Ln., Edina

Specs: 8 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms, 13,326 square feet, 3-stall garage, build in 1920Original asking price: $6.2 million (Feb. 27, 2017)Sale price: $2.8 million (June 1)Days on market: 200Listing pitch: "Grand Edina Lake Estate. Private 4.5 acres with over 375 ft of lakeshore. From the marble flooring to the crystal chandeliers, this home showcases immaculate details throughout! Chef's kitchen with sub-zero fridge, Thermador stove & double oven, granite counters & more. 6 spacious bedrooms on upper level including owner's suite with luxurious owner's bath - spa tub, dual sink & marble vanity. Over 12K finished sq. footage including indoor pool, conservatory, greenhouse & separate guest quarters."

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9. 8 Park Ln., Minneapolis

Specs: 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 5,950 square feet, 4-stall garage, built in 2002Original asking price: $3.3 million (Feb. 4, 2019)Sale price: $2.82 million (June 12)Days on market: 494Listing pitch: "An exemplary Minneapolis Lakes waterfront home in the style of acclaimed architect Robert A.M. Stern - where every detail is masterfully planned and superbly executed. A luxe calming material palette, warm marbles and stones, rich wood tones, spa bathrooms, exquisite kitchen, two owner's suites with dramatic volume, one-of-a-kind cascading stairwell, unique architectural details, hand-crafted moldings and custom built-ins and creative skylight accents. Designer landscaping includes extensive dry-stacked bluestone walls. Set on one of the most picturesque park-like city lots with sweeping water and nature vistas - and all-things water at your fingertips."

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8. 275 Lake St. E #302, Wayzata

Specs: 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3,125 square feet, 2-stall garage, built in 2019Original asking price: $2.8 million (April 2, 2019)Sale price: $2.97 million (April 27)Days on market: 391Listing pitch: "Contemporary, forward thinking design sets this exciting new condominium community apart! Concrete construction w/steel stud framing for state of the art bldg. Generous room sizes and open design gives you the ultimate reason to check out Wayzata's newest condo development. Experience the Wayzata lifestyle. Enjoy the ease of walking to restaurants, shops, beach. Selling fast!"

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7. 259 E Lake St. #204, Wayzata

Specs: 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2,550 square feet, 2-stall garage, built in 2017Original asking price: $1.4 million (July 1, 2016)Sale price: $2.97 (Jan. 30)Days on market: 801 daysListing pitch:"Wow! Views of Wayzata bay! This corner unit luxury condominium features a huge terrace and pocketing patio doors providing the ultimate indoor/outdoor living. Site is on the corner of Barry Ave and Lake Street across the street from the Boatworks and walkable to all downtown Wayzata has to offer."

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6. 2760 Woolsey Ln., Woodland

Specs: 5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 7,373 square feet, 4-stall garage, built in 1941Original asking price: $3.2 million (Jan. 9)Sale price: $2.97 (May 8)Days on market: 120Listing pitch: "Spectacular Lake Minnetonka Estate on 3.61 acres inWoodland with 238 feet of frontage on picturesque Woolsey Pond. A long private tree-lined driveway leads down to the traditional brick and shake home. The gently sloping yard provides easy access to the permanent dock with 3 boat slips, and the yard is large enough for any activities, including a hockey rink. With over $3.5 million in recent renovations by Kyle Hunt Partners and Streeter & Associates, this home is move-in ready. Older touches like a wood-burning fireplace are preserved, while state of the art mechanical and technological systems provide modern convenience. The open floor-plan is focused on casual lake living and views of the yard and lake. There are 5 bedrooms on the upper level, with two master suites. Exceptional millwork and quality is evident throughout, and the home is warm and filled with natural light. Exceptional storage, including a walkup attic plus a garage accessed from the lake side for lake gear and toys."

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5. 990 E Shady Ln., Wayzata

Specs: 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3,249 square feet, 2-stall garage, built in 1982Original asking price: $3.5 million (Dec. 9, 2019)Sale price: $3.2 million (Feb. 17)Days on market: 71Listing pitch: "Nature paints a different view every day from the ceiling to floor windows of this modern styled home. Located along the shores of Wayzata Bay, just minutes from the Wayzata Yacht Club and a short walk to the historic downtown village area. Featuring a great room with wood-burning fireplace, cathedral ceiling and main floor master suite with fireplace. The expansive lakeside deck wraps the home, providing fantastic space for entertaining. A lower level walkout features a den and two bedrooms with a tuck under, heated garage. Perfect for your custom updates or a creative new rebuild!"

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4. 2427 E. Lake Of the Isles Pkwy., Minneapolis

Specs: 4 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, 8,474 square feet, 6-car garage, built in 1911Original asking price: $6 million (Dec. 29, 2017)Sale price: $4 million (March 9)Days on market: 801Listing pitch: "Designed by famed architect Frederick Soper, this signature Spanish Revival is one of the most legendary homes of the Twin Cities. Perched on a sprawling corner lot overlooking Lake Of The Isles, multi-tiered terraces wrap the home and offer sweeping lakeside views. Inside, a gallery of signature rooms--including a large owner's suite w/two spa baths, a world-class kitchen, theater rm, elevator, and unique solarium--dazzle with custom details, deluxe finishes, and high-end modern conveniences."

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3. 6472 Smithtown Rd., Victoria

Specs: 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 9,298 square feet, 4-stall garage, built in 2007Original asking price: $4.7 million (May 23)Sale price: $4.52 million (May 29)Days on market:7Listing pitch:"Once in a lifetime opportunity to own the best and most compelling home on 160 ft of west facing Smithtown Bay. Surrounded by water views on both sides, never miss the incredible lake sunsets or morning sunrises that will continually amaze you. This Custom built home has every feature in mind by Stonewood Builders and design by Kathy Alexander. The new gourmet kitchen is spacious, light and bright. The meticulously thought-out floor plan, coffer ceilings and wood trim detail can only be found in the most elite custom homes. Luxurious master suite with panoramic views of the lake. Master walk in closet that will fit every need plus more. Enjoy lake lifestyle from the picturesque screened porch with cozy fireplace. Lower level walk out is just steps from the lake with the best elevation. The house is even outfitted with an Irish pub, wine/tasting room, exercise room and a game room/sport court to be enjoyed by all. Over-sized 4 car garage with heated floors make this a collectors dream."

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2. 3125 Fox St., Orono

Specs: 6 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, 7,959 square feet, 7-stall garage, built in 1952Original asking price: $6 million (June 20, 2019)Sale price: $5 million (Feb. 28)Days on market: 253Listing pitch:"Only once in a blue moon does a landmark property, forever situated on 8 private acres overlooking nearly 340 feet of Maxwell Bay on Lower Lake Minnetonka, find its way to the real estate market. Welcome to 3125 Fox Street. Perfectly built in 1952 and meticulously brought into today's design and expected standards, flows this south facing home with main floor master, dining, living room, family room and screened-in sleeping porch along with all second floor bedrooms taking in serene pictorial views of the water."

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1. 430 Ferndale Rd. W., Wayzata

Specs: 6 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms, 18,649 square feet, 6-stall garage, built in 2003Original asking price: $9.45 million (March 13, 2017)Sale price: $5.5 million (May 29)Days on market: 756Listing pitch: "Hidden Ferndale A+ Lakeshore Estate! A ready to move in custom home within walking distance to downtown Wayzata. This luxury home has every amenity including indoor and outdoor pools, home theater, golf simulator, grand main floor master suite, and the finest finishes. Includes a 1bd/1ba apartment with full amenities including living room, kitchen, laundry, and walk in closet. 2 garages boast a 6-car capacity! Located on 2.61 private acres of prime lakeshore, with 180 feet of commanding southerly views of the main lake."

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(All photos courtesy of property listings)

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The 10 most expensive Twin Cities homes sold in 2020 (so far) - City Pages

As some Fort Bend County residents stay at home because of the coronavirus pandemic, many are keeping busy with home improvement and remodeling projects.

Jason Pierce, the founder of Pierce Built Homes in Sugar Land, spoke to Community Impact Newspaper about which home improvement projects are in demand and when to call in a professional to help get a project off the ground.

4 things to know:

1) The effect of the coronavirus

Pierce said the coronavirus pandemic has made certain materials that come from countries or regions hit hard by the virus and related closures scarce. The affected materials include treated lumber, tile, granite and items necessary for pool construction.

2) Trends in home construction

Pierce said a lot of people interested in building a custom home or remodeling their existing home want an open floor plan. This floor plan refers to homes where walls are taken out so the kitchen is open to the living room.

3) Projects for homeowners versus projects for the professionals

Painting is one project Pierce said some homeowners are willing to take on. However, he recommended homeowners leave other projects such as electrical work, plumbing and framing up to the professionals.

If you start wanting to replace tile and cabinets, its probably time to call in the professionals just so that its done correctly, he said.

4) Routine home maintenance

Pierce said homeowners should check that the exterior of their windows and doors are properly caulked and that exterior paint, siding and stucco is maintained. He also said it is important for homeowners to keep up with air conditioning maintenance and to have the water heater checked once a year.

Pierce Built Homes is located at 526 Brooks St., Sugar Land. For more information, call 281-201-8711 or visit http://www.piercebuilthomes.com.

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Home improvement: Pierce Built Homes owner weighs in on remodeling projects - Community Impact Newspaper

Then the pandemic struck.

With my official graduation canceled, it felt like I'd be making my victory lap with no cheers -- just the echo of my feet crossing the finish line. Of course, if I'd had my moment to walk across the stage in front of thousands of people, it would have been embarrassing. I would have broken down crying; I just know it.

And yet I mourned the loss. More than anything, I wanted to leave my two adult children with a powerful impression of their mother, who against all odds, finally succeeded in completing her education -- and, in doing so, reclaimed her story.

In 1965, when I was three, my biological father disappeared. My mother, though never officially diagnosed with a mental illness, was a recluse. As my siblings and I grew older, our lives were about surviving her abusive episodes and dreaming of escape. Traumatized, without a support network, I knew my only way out was education.

Fourteen years later, when I was just 17, my mother dropped me off at a bible college in Oklahoma with a suitcase, $100 and a note to never return home. Without a means to pay for my education, I lasted a year.

In need of safety and stability, I married a devout Southern Baptist and returned to Texas, my home state, and then college at age 20. While studying interior design, I began designing custom homes. One project quickly blossomed to more than two dozen.

Three years later, I left my marriage.

At that point, entrepreneurial success felt like the ultimate measure of self-worth, so I dropped out of college and expanded my interior design business, designing hotels and working internationally. I didn't need a psychiatrist to tell me that there'd never be enough designer luxury goods to erase my pain, yet I kept shopping, addicted to the thrill of acquisition. And, for a while, making and spending lots of money filled the void.

A decade later, I married a man from France and helped form one of the first internet companies -- XOOM. When we started out, everyone wanted to know where I had attended college. I had a spiel, "Steve Jobs and Bill Gates didn't complete their degrees either." After our company went public and we cashed out, people stopped asking me that question.

But then I became a mother, and everything changed.

I wanted my children to have everything I hadn't -- stability, love and a great education. Though we were financially well off, I felt incomplete. I considered returning to college, but my vanity and buried shame of not finishing the first two times prevented me.

I thought making lots of money would make me feel better. It didn't. So, I took another difficult step -- leaving a hollow marriage in search of real meaning. I never thought not having a college degree would come up in court, let alone hurt me, but when my husband said, "She doesn't have a college degree," it struck a nerve. He was right, and I didn't want to be defined by what I hadn't accomplished.

Returning to school to write would be my way of taking control of my narrative.

In 2016, after attending two community colleges while raising my children, I showed up at Bard College with straight As and a $48,000 scholarship. My 17-year-old daughter, who'd just started at Mount Holyoke College, came along. An admissions officer offered my daughter a tour of the campus. "I'm the student," I said, wondering who felt more awkward.

I drove 44 miles round-trip, five days a week to Bard. Studying literature opened my eyes to a whole canon of writers challenging the status quo like James Baldwin, Rachel Louise Snyder and Tressie McMillan Cottom. When we discussed how people often chain themselves to worldly goods like money and luxury products, I had a lot to say about how those attachments produce biased judgments and distorted perceptions.

After two years, I left with a hard-earned Written Arts degree, a friendship with Cliff, Bard's beloved security guard, as well as the support of the dean whose program funded my free writing workshops for victims of violence and marginalized populations. But I never walked across the stage because my children were studying abroad, and it seemed pointless without them there.

I went on to pursue an MFA at The New School, which gave me the confidence to develop my voice in a community as diverse in culture as writing styles. Then coronavirus interrupted my academic career, robbing me of quality time with my thesis advisor, networking events and the opportunity to pitch my memoir about overcoming my Dickensian childhood.

I was determined not to let the pandemic rob me of my graduation celebration -- not entirely anyway. In partnership with Virginia Valenzuela, the editor of LIT Magazine, where I'm the book review editor, we decided to host a virtual commencement celebration.

I reached out to three writers to participate: Lara Love Hardin, a former opiate addict turned New York Times bestseller; Rachel B. Neumann, an author and alumna of my program; and Kristen Roupenian, the author of The New Yorker's viral essay "Cat Person."

On May 15, before our virtual event began, I woke up to balloons, which spelled out "Class of 2020 Quarantined," that my daughter and dearest friend hung across my living room. That discovery was followed by a range of congratulatory posts on my Facebook page from the Dean of Humanities from Austin Community College to a classmate I'd studied with 37 years earlier.

A relative stranger messaged me, "We met years ago when you sold me the couch I'm sitting on. As a 57-year-old woman myself, I'm in awe of your drive and determination. If you can make an impact on a stranger you met years ago for less than an hour, you can be sure that your children and their children will speak of your legacy for years to come." I wept.

My daughter then played a video she made of friends congratulating me. My sister-in-law and six-year-old niece read a commencement speech quoting Dolly Parton. "The way I see it -- if you want the rainbow, you got to put up with the rain."

I cried when I heard my son, who's studying music production in London, say, "You've shown us that no matter what age you are, you can still achieve happiness and pursue your dreams. That's a message I'll take with me forever."

Then, when I signed on to Zoom to co-host my commencement graduation, I scrolled through the 33 classmates and professors on my screen. Perhaps sensing my anxiety, Virginia texted, "Take a deep breath, smile and celebrate your four decades of hard work!"

Later that night, wearing masks and seated six feet apart, I shared cocktails on the rooftop of a new friend's apartment. I'd met her in a writing group I'd joined days before the pandemic. It felt like serendipity when we realized we lived a block apart in Manhattan, then fate when my best friend's daughter moved in next door to her. In a city with more than 8 million, we'd connected life stories -- from one spanning 25 years to a one just a few months old. I was reminded of how some of my greatest friendships were forged during the most uncertain times.

While reflecting on our virtual celebration the day after, Virginia said, "The speakers reminded me that, though it's okay to feel sorry for the things you've lost, it's more important to overcome those feelings and to change the narrative." And, after four decades of trying to change my narrative, I finally had.

But I'd done more. I'd taken Lara Love Hardin's message to our virtual graduation class to heart. When she spoke, she said she didn't want to be known for the worst thing she had done, but for the sum of her actions. And I didn't want my narrative to be just about an abandoned or abused child. Nor did I want to be the mother without a degree. My celebration was my opportunity to openly declare that my story matters -- that I matter.

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With graduation canceled, I still got to take a victory lap - CNN

Although some expected the COVID-19 pandemic to adversely affect the housing market (and in many ways, it has worsened conditions for some buyers), the crisis has done little to drive prices down inMississauga.

In fact, pricesthough down a bit month-over-monthare higher than they were in2019.

According to real estate brokerage and website Zoocasa, the average home price in Mississauga grew 5 per cent year-over-year to $796,577 but declined 4 per cent compared to April. The average home price in the region in May was 10 per cent lower than in February 2020, before COVID-19 measures wereintroduced.

Zoocasa says detached and semi-detached average house prices also grew annually by 2 per cent and 8 per cent to $1,118,835 and $795,856 respectively. In the condominium segment, the condo townhouse average price grew 7 per cent year-over-year to $631,185 and condo apartment average price increased 4 per cent to$498,640.

Since prices are stubbornly high, it's not surprising that some pretty magnificent properties changed hands inMay.

Here's a look at some of the swankiest homes that recently sold inMississauga:

2180 ParkerDr.

This Gordon Woods home sold for $3,305,000 after being listed for $3,649,000. The house boasts five bedrooms, seven bathrooms, 20 parking spaces and over 5,000 square feet of space on the ground floor. It also features a master retreat with a private courtyard and outdoor shower, an enclosed porch with a hot tub andmore.

1248 Lorne ParkRd.

This prestigious estate home sold for $2,700,000 after being listed for $2,799,888. The six-bedroom, six-bathroom, 10-parking spot home boasts a backyard retreat, a bright kitchen and a potential nannysuite.

4005 WoodchuckLane

This Kingsway-style home sold for $2,600,786 after being listed for $2,495,000. The home boasts six bedrooms, five bathrooms, and 14 parking spaces. It also features a premium ravine lot and a great room with a cathedralceiling.

1343 MiltonAve.

This custom-built home sold for $2,568,500 after being listed for $2,699,000. The home features four bedrooms, five bathrooms, approximately 5,000 square feet of space and six parking spaces. It also boasts a grand entrance with highceilings.

701 AtokaDr.

This custom-built home sold for $2,375,000 after being listed for $2,475,000. The house features four bedrooms, four bathrooms, up to 5,000 square feet of space and six parking spots. It also boasts a master retreat with a fireplace and sittingarea.

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5 swanky homes that recently sold in Mississauga - insauga.com

(MENAFN - GetNews) Tony's Windows and Siding is rated the best window and siding installation company in North Carolina for a number of reasons. Not only does their company possess the expertise, experience, and craftsmanship of professionals, but they also offer services that give clients the peace of mind they need, as well as a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.

Greenville, NC - Tony's Windows and Siding is rated the best window and siding installation company in North Carolina for a number of reasons. Not only does their company possess the expertise, experience, and craftsmanship of professionals, but they also offer services that give clients the peace of mind they need, as well as a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. Pushing to better meet the needs of clients in and around its primary service areas, Tony's Windows and Siding is proud to announce the expansion of its service area into Greenville, NC.

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Added to this, the company also offers the sale of single hung windows, double-hung windows, sliding windows, accent windows, glass blocks, basement hopper windows, picture windows, projection windows, casement windows, storm windows, ceiling skylights, as well as awning windows.

Tony's Windows and Siding also offers comprehensive Siding Installation and Repair services. The team handles installation and repairs of all siding materials including wood siding, fiber cement, vinyl siding, engineered wood, shingle siding, cedar siding, stone veneer, brick veneer, and other materials.

'Whether your existing siding is in rough shape or it's time for new siding, call us. As your experienced team of local installation contractors, we offer affordable services. With our range of quality building materials, we always have a practical solution. From premium products to cost-effective siding, we carry it all, the company representative added.

Not only does quality siding keep a property safe, but it also offers many other benefits such as preventing moisture damage, pest problems, energy loss, and utility costs. Quality siding installation will also increase indoor air quality, curb appeal, and property value.

The company has earned tons of accolades from past clients whose properties have received a boost in value, appeal, and aesthetic appearance due to Tony's Windows and Siding's expertise.

Tony's Windows and Siding is located at 1920 Exchange Drive Suite 823, Greenville, NC 27858. For quality window and siding installation and repair services, contact their team by calling (252) 542-5594. For additional information regarding their services, send an email to or visit their company's website.

Media Contact Company Name: Tony's Windows and Siding Contact Person: Mary Kathryn VanLandingham Email: Send Email Phone: (252) 542-5594 Address: 1920 Exchange Drive Suite 823 City: Greenville State: NC Country: United States Website: http://www.tonyswindowsandsiding.com/

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Tony's Windows and Siding Opens a New Location to Serve Greenville, NC and the Surrounding Areas With Quality Window and Siding Installation and...