By Barbara Allen, Contributing Writer

Lancaster Over 50 years of experience in the flooring business, combined with a reputation for quality, honesty, and excellence in customer service, has rewarded Creighton Floor Covering with a customer base built mostly by word of mouth. The family-owned-and-operated business, located at 417 Bolton Road in Lancaster, was founded in 1970 by Jack Creighton. Creighton Floor Covering offers the sale and installation of high-quality tile, carpet, vinyl planking and wood flooring to both residential and commercial customers.

We do very little actual advertising, noted General Manager Kelsey (Creighton) Marriott, who is also Jack Creightons granddaughter. Her father, Dan Creighton, assumed ownership of the business about a year and a half ago; brother, Daron, also works for the company as an installer.

We have a very high majority of customers who are repeat customers, Marriott continued. They may have had carpeting or flooring put in by us 15-20 years ago and are now ready for an update. Or, she added, they may be a new customer looking to have flooring installed, referred by someone who had worked with Creighton Floor Covering in the past.

She estimated that about 80% of their business is by referral, which means that much of their work tends to come from Lancaster and surrounding towns, as well as the greater Worcester County. But Marriott noted that the company is not limited geographically to those locations and has served cities and towns outside of the local area.

When asked what flooring products were trending currently, Marriott reported that traditional hardwood is still going strong, with red oak probably being the most popular. She added that vinyl plank flooring floating floors, click together flooring has become another popular option as it can be installed in virtually any area of the home: basement, bathroom, bedrooms. Durable and resistant, it comes in many different styles and colors which can coordinate with every dcor.

A lot of people are going for its versatility and durability, Marriott explained.

If carpet is the customers choice of floor covering, she noted that new advances in technology have improved stain and moisture resistance. And while not waterproof, current antibacterial and moisture resistant barriers help keep mold, moisture, and pet-related problems at bay.

But no matter what their flooring preference, customers of Creighton Floor Covering know that they can count on a personal, professional experience and have confidence in a job well done.

Weve always been known for our attention to detail, our dedication, said Marriott. We put everything we can into making sure our customers are 100% satisfied.

Creighton Floor Covering is located at 417 Bolton Road, Lancaster. For business hours or additional information, contact them at 978-365-5426, or by email at creightonfloor@comcast.net. The company is also preparing to launch their new website: creightonflooring.com.

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Creighton Floor Covering: Lancaster business is committed to customer satisfaction - Community Advocate

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When you work with clients, you know that you need to respond to their specific needs. Whether You are a remodeler or builder, you know that choosing the right flooring will make a huge difference. Many factors will determine the final choice, such as budget, style preference, and quality. Add the clients wishes to this, and you have a challenging task balancing each. You need to be aware of the different types of flooring available and their pros and cons. In this article, we share the most popular choices for renovation and building.

Carpet is a versatile version that offers warmth. There are many colors, patterns, and textures available so that anyone can find the right fit. The installation process is straightforward and quick. Homeowners love carpets because they absorb sounds and feel warm. This is why a carpet is a go-to option for upper-level rooms.

However, you are limited to using the carpet only in living rooms and bedrooms. Carpets are vulnerable to stains and moisture, so you cant place them in bathrooms and kitchens. Also, they need professional cleaning to stay in good shape.

When we say tiles, we think of ceramic and porcelain tiles. The classic tile flooring isnt only meant to complete the bathrooms and kitchens. Nowadays, there are tile choices for living rooms and bedrooms too. Whether you prefer mosaic or wood imitations, keep in mind that there are many tile designs to choose from. There are so many versatile options that will fit your particular style.

Tip: Use a floor planning tool for business to measure the area and estimate the material price. This will help you get an idea of the final cost.

Hardwood is a versatile and luxurious option, which is preferred by homeowners. It brings a warm and cozy vibe to the space, making it perfect for living rooms and bedrooms.

Besides, there are some limitations that you should consider. Avoid placing hardwood flooring in humid and moist areas such as bathrooms, basements and mudrooms. The high costs and maintenance can turn some people away from the idea of installing a hardwood floor. The wood needs to be finished with a clear coat, which wont offer full protection. The floor can still be scratched if you dont clean it properly. If you are renovating property for renting, it is better to avoid this type of flooring.

Laminate is a cheaper alternative to hardwood flooring. It is made of resin and wood pulp and can meet any type of hardwood flooring. The process of installation is straightforward, as the laminate is available in click-together pieces. Use it for rooms that arent exposed to moisture, as the humidity can make the material swell and chip. However, keep in mind that the material cant be replaced or repaired. The low price and easy installation process can make it up for the other downsides.

Although these are two different flooring types, we can place them in the same category as they offer the same benefits. The only variation is that they are made of different materials. Vinyl is made of polymers, while linoleum is made of natural materials such as cork and jute. Hence, linoleum is a preferred option for the ones that use environment-friendly materials.

They are easy to handle and install because they are available in the form of sheets and tiles. These materials are durable, which means that they are an excellent option for high-traffic areas. Vinyl comes in a wide range of colors and prices, while linoleum doesnt offer low price options.

ICYMI: Different types of employees on a construction site

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Different Types of Flooring Commonly Used in Renovation and Building - The Zebra

RICHMOND, Va., Jan. 19, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Lumber Liquidators, now LL Flooring(NYSE: LL), one of the nation's largest specialty retailers of high-quality, hard-surface flooring that is dedicated to providing the best customer experience, ended 2020 by thanking several first responder organizations that helped their communities last year by gifting them with hand-crafted wooden American flags. The Company also kicked off the new year by announcing the 2021 Floor of the Year, Gold Coast Acacia Hardwood Flooring.

Honoring 2020's Heroes by Gifting Wooden, Hand-Made American FlagsIn a salute to first responders and organizations who supported their communities throughout the challenging year of 2020, LL Flooring teamed up with its partner Pennwood Products to create five artfully crafted American flags, handmade from Pennwood's heritage 50-year-old pine. To celebrate first responder and relief groups, LL Flooring and Pennwood gifted flags to these organizations:

Read more about the making of the flags and view a video about the donations: https://www.llflooring.com/inspiration/s/content/a0W3i000000j4PPEAY/lasting-legacies.

"We are grateful for these amazing first responders and the critical services they provided throughout 2020," said Charles Tyson, President and CEO, LL Flooring. "These hand-crafted flags are our way of thanking them for being there for our communities."

Pennwood, based in East Berlin, Pennsylvania, is a family-run business founded in 1942, and maker of high-quality hardwood moldings, stair treads and risers, and more.

2021 Floor of the Year: Gold Coast Acacia HardwoodLL Flooring looked to carry the positive momentum from 2020 into the New Year through the culmination of the Floor of the Year contest, with the winner being decided by an online public vote in December among 12 top-trending floor styles. The 12 finalists were selected through LL Flooring's ongoing monitoring of the latest home dcor trends, as well as input from designers and home-industry professionals to ensure they represent trend-right styles.

The winner, Gold Coast Acacia Hardwood, iscrafted from solid, natural acacia that is ideal for warming up a home. The copper tones highlight the distinct knots and grains in this exotic species, making it a dramatic and beautiful flooring choice that complements any style.

Rounding out the top three Floor of the Year finalists are Manhattan Chevron Engineered Hardwoodand Urban Loft AshEngineered Vinyl Plank. Read more about the Floor of the Year online: https://www.llflooring.com/inspiration/s/content/a0W3i000000j4fyEAA/celebrating-the-2021-floor-of-the-year.

"It's exciting to see which floors resonate with our customers and this contest gives homeowners an opportunity to view and vote on some of our best and most beautiful trending floors," said Charles Tyson, President and CEO of LL Flooring. "We're proud to offer a wonderful selection of great flooring that can suit any home design, and the Floor of the Year contest showcases just a snapshot of our vast flooring styles."

LL Flooring offers more than 400 varieties of floors in the latest styles including solid and engineered hardwood, laminate, waterproof vinyl plank, porcelain tile, bamboo and cork, all available to view online atLLFlooring.com.

Digital Shopping Solutions for Homebound ConsumersAdding on to the 2021 Floor of the Year announcement, LL Flooring is continuing to help customers achieve their flooring dreams for the New Year and beyond with a full suite of digital tools to help homeowners select the right floor for their vision, from the comfort of their own homes.

With the online visualizer tool, Picture It, customers can upload a photo of any room to easily preview how various floor styles will look in their homes. Once a homeowner is interested in flooring options, they can order free samples of the floorsthat LL Flooring will ship directly to their homes.

To add further flexibility, LL also offers avirtual store shopping experiencefor customers to meet with a live, in-store LL Flooring associate via a computer or tablet.Accessed via appointment, the LL Flooring expert will walk the customer through the store to showcase flooring styles, answer the customer's questions and arrange for professional installation.

About LL FlooringLL Flooring is one ofnation'sleading specialty retailers of hard-surface flooring with more than 400 stores across the country. The Company seeks to offer the best customer experience online and in stores, with more than 400 varieties of hard-surface floors featuring a range of quality styles and on-trend designs.LL's online tools also help empower customers to find the right solution for the space they've envisioned.LL Flooring's extensive selection includes waterproof vinyl plank, solid and engineered hardwood, laminate, bamboo, porcelain tile, and cork, with a wide range of flooring enhancements and accessories to complement, install and maintain new floors.With more than 25 years of experience, stores are staffed with flooring experts who provide advice, pro partnership services and installation options for all of LL Flooring's products, the majority of which is in stock and ready for curbside pick up or delivery.

Learn More about LL Flooring

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CONTACT: Nathan Bowie, Nathan.Bowie@onesimpleplan.com, 612-677-2250

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LL Flooring Celebrates the Start of 2021 by Honoring Heroes with Hand-Crafted Wooden American Flags and Announcing the Floor of the Year - The Central...

Tubelite provided its T24650 series thermal storefront and its 400SS screw spline thermal curtainwall for the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority headquarters in Fort Defiance, N.M., which was designed by Dyron Murphy Architects. Photo: Patrick Coulie Architectural Photography, courtesy of Tubelite Inc.

Window wall and curtainwall have structural differences that affect the applications for which they are suited. With these differences come several installation and design considerations that are important for glazing contractors to understand, especially upfront in the design-assist phase when they can steer system decisions.

Structural Definition

Different companies have different definitions of curtainwall and window wall (also known as ribbon windows). Spencer Culhane, senior building envelope specialist at Schco USA of Newington, Conn., offers his companys definitions: A curtainwall is any faade assembly that is suspended in front of the superstructure of the building and a window wall is any assembly that is load-bearing or deadloaded to each level of the structure.

For curtainwall, think of a continuous wrapping applied to the skeleton of a buildings structure. Its unbroken and continues along the rise and width of the whole building, uninterrupted by the structure It hangs like a curtain, he says. Window wall systems are very common in concrete slab construction. On the edge of the floor, youre resting and erecting continuous windows horizontally, but they only span floor-to-floor with the slab dividing the system.

Culhane points out that the system includes the framing, glass and operables. Faades with window wall systems may include slab edge covers, faade paneling or spandrel glass, but the structural part of the system is what matters.

Tom Mifflin, director of marketing for Tubelite of Walker, Mich., says the optimal and most economical system largely depends on where the project is located and who is available to install it.

Marty Trainor, senior vice president at Chicago-based Ventana, says his company uses four-sided structural glazing for both product categories, which makes their performances similar.

For some, window wall [when compared to curtainwall] is inferior and less of a high performance product, he explains. Thats not the case [for us] and a few other companies on the market.

Trainor adds that many people believe window wall is also a cheaper product, but that depends on the project. Curtainwall is good for projects with steel structures or high spans between floors while window wall is better for concrete structures and small spans, according to Trainor. This is why window wall often is used for hotel and residential projects while curtainwall is used in large office projects where an HVAC system needs to be hidden.

He points out that trying to use a window wall when theres 14 feet between floors could result in a cost higher or equal to using curtainwall, which is already designed to accommodate that distance.

Earl Patrick, executive designer for Enclos of Eagan, Minn., says that if the two system types are designed correctly, there should be no difference in performance. He says it can be difficult to achieve the same air infiltration values with window wall as with curtainwall.

Though you could make the argument that window wall doesnt perform as well seismically, he says, adding that curtainwall isnt pinned between two slabs like window wall.

Mifflin offers a further explanation.

Another important performance consideration is the inter-story movement, which is determined by loads from the building structure, occupants, walls, equipment, column foreshortening, creep, and thermal expansion and contraction. When inter-story movement requirements exceed +/- inch, window wall systems should be carefully reviewed, or curtainwall systems should be considered, he says.

Installation Differences

Installation also plays an important role in the system selection process. Trainor says that at Ventana, theres one major difference between curtainwall and window wall: curtainwall is installed outside of the slab and window wall is installed inside the slab. Culhane echoes Trainors statement, saying those are the predominate installation methods for each system.

Curtainwall can have panels that start inside but are then swung into the exterior, craned into position and then hung, says Culhane. Curtainwall installation requires a hoist mechanism on the outside of the building to hang the panels on the exterior. Window wall systems dont have the same requirement and are installed on the inside from each floor level, though a glazier may need to go to the exterior for slab edge covers.

He explains that logistics and the structural condition of a building often drive the product decision. If cladding a tower or high-rise where theres rigging access on the exterior, it can be faster to clad using a curtainwall system. If cladding a long, low-rise building with a long, horizontal orientation where a crane would have to be brought onsite for the purpose of setting a faade, it might be better to go with a window wall system.

The information is excerpted from the feature titled, Putting on a Faade. To read the full article in the December 2020 issue of USGlass magazine, click here. To sign up to receive USGlass magazine free of charge, click here.

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Putting on a Faade: Installation Differences Between Curtainwall and Window Wall Systems - USGlass Metal & Glazing

Dont Tuck Duct Issues Into the Install | 2021-01-17 | ACHR News This website requires certain cookies to work and uses other cookies to help you have the best experience. By visiting this website, certain cookies have already been set, which you may delete and block. By closing this message or continuing to use our site, you agree to the use of cookies. Visit our updated privacy and cookie policy to learn more. This Website Uses CookiesBy closing this message or continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Learn MoreThis website requires certain cookies to work and uses other cookies to help you have the best experience. By visiting this website, certain cookies have already been set, which you may delete and block. By closing this message or continuing to use our site, you agree to the use of cookies. Visit our updated privacy and cookie policy to learn more.

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Don't Tuck Duct Issues Into the Install - ACHR NEWS

BOCA RATON, Fla., Jan. 14, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Q.E.P. CO., INC. (OTC: QEPC.PK) (the Company or QEP) today reported its consolidated results of operations for the first nine months and third quarter of its fiscal year ending February 28, 2021 and announces a five percent special stock dividend.

QEP reported net sales of $288.0 million for the nine months ended November 30, 2020, a decrease of $11.1 million or 3.7% from the $299.1 million reported in the same period of fiscal 2020. The Company reported net sales of $98.9 million for the quarter ended November 30, 2020, an increase of $2.2 million or 2.3% from the $96.7 million reported in the same period of fiscal 2020. The fiscal 2021 nine month decline in sales compared to the prior year reflects the adverse impact of the worldwide economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic during the first quarter of the current year. All subsequent quarters reflect increased year-over-year net sales.

Lewis Gould, Executive Chairman, commented on the Companys results, I am pleased that the Company was able to generate sales growth for the second consecutive quarter, which has further offset the sales decline in the first quarter that was the results of the COVID-19 related economic downturn. The sales increase during the previous two quarters was driven by retail channels in North America, despite COVID-19 related challenges in the dealer and distributor channels, and growth in the Companys overseas operations. During the quarter, the Company continued to maintain aggressive cost control measures, which included lower personnel cost, along with reduced overhead and marketing expenses. Collectively, these actions resulted in the Companys increased profitability during the quarter and for the first nine months of the year.

Mr. Gould concluded, The Company is diligently monitoring and adjusting its response not only to the COVID-19 pandemic, but also to the challenges presented by the weakening U.S. Dollar, shifts in global sourcing patterns and political uncertainty in the U.S. and U.K. I believe that the Company under the current leadership team is emerging from the current crisis better positioned for long-term profitability and the creation of sustainable shareholder value.

The Companys gross profit for the first nine months of fiscal 2021 was $81.8 million compared to $79.5 million in the corresponding fiscal 2020 period, an increase of $2.3 million or 2.8%. Gross profit for the third quarter of fiscal 2021 was $28.7 million, representing an increase of $2.2 million or 8.2%, from $26.5 million in the fiscal 2020 period. The Companys gross margin as a percentage of net sales for the first nine months and third quarter of fiscal year 2021 was 28.4% and 29.0%, respectively, which increased from 26.6% and 27.4% in the prior fiscal year periods, respectively. The gross margin as a percentage of net sales improvement is due to favorable changes in product mix and timely actions taken by the Company to reduce manufacturing overhead during the first nine months and third quarter of fiscal 2021.

Operating expenses, excluding restructuring loss, for the first nine months and third quarter of fiscal 2021 were $71.7 million and $25.1 million, respectively, or 24.9% and 25.3% of net sales in those periods, compared to $85.1 million and $26.5 million, respectively, or 28.4% and 27.4% of net sales in the comparable fiscal 2020 periods. The reduction in operating expenses is due to year-over-year synergies realized through the integration and rationalization of fiscal 2019 acquisitions, lower personnel costs through reduction-in-force and employee furlough activities during the COVID-19 economic downturn, lower marketing and travel expenses, along with government subsidies received for maintaining employment levels at the Companys international operations.

Restructuring charges for the first nine months and third quarter of fiscal 2021 represent the legal, administrative and asset impairment cost associated with the restructuring of the Companys Canadian subsidiary, net of the benefit related to the Plan of Compromise agreed with the subsidiarys unsecured creditors.

The lower interest expense during the first nine months and third quarter of fiscal 2021 compared to the same periods in the prior fiscal year was principally due to a reduction in borrowings under the Companys credit facilities during the current period.

The provision for income taxes as a percentage of incomes before taxes was 28.0% for the first nine months and third quarter of fiscal 2021 compared to a benefit for income taxes as a percentage of the loss before taxes of 28.0% for the related fiscal 2020 periods.

Net income for the first nine months and third quarter of fiscal 2021 was $5.5 million and $2.1 million, respectively, or $1.75 and $0.66, respectively, per diluted share. For the comparable periods of fiscal 2020, net loss was $3.7 million and $0.4 million, respectively, or $1.16 and $0.13, respectively, per diluted share.

Earnings (loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) as adjusted for non-operating income and restructuring charges for the first nine months and third quarter of fiscal 2021 was $13.4 million and $4.8 million, respectively as compared to a loss of $2.0 million and income of $1.2 million for the first nine months and third quarter of fiscal 2020, respectively.

Cash provided by operations during the first nine months of fiscal 2021 was $30.6 million as compared to $1.8 million in the first nine months of fiscal 2020, reflecting an increase in operating income and a reduction in net investments in working capital. During the first nine months of fiscal 2020, the Company sold a certain non-core product line and recorded a gain on the sale of $2.4 million before income taxes, which was recorded in non-operating income. In the first nine months of fiscal 2021, cash from operations was used primarily to pay down $17.8 million of debt and increase cash balances. In the prior fiscal year period, cash provided by operations and proceeds from the sale of a non-core product line was used to pay down debt.

Working capital at the end of the Companys third of fiscal 2021 was $41.1 million compared to $29.1 million at the end of fiscal 2020. Aggregate debt, net of available cash balances at the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2021 was $19.1 million or 27.6% of equity, a decrease of $27.3 million compared to $46.4 million or 73.9% of equity at the end of fiscal 2020.

On June 29, 2020, the Companys Canadian operating subsidiary, Roberts Company Canada Limited, was granted an Order by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Commercial List) to commence a restructuring proceeding under the Companies Creditor Arrangement Act (CCAA). This filing was initiated to allow the subsidiary to be able to continue operating while it efficiently restructures its business. The subsidiary has substantially completed its reorganization and is expected to fully emerge from the CCAA protection before the end of fiscal 2021. The Company is not a party to this proceeding.

On January 13, 2021, the Companys Board of Directors declared a one-time, special stock dividend of 5% per share on the common stock of the Company. The stock dividend is distributable on or about February 19, 2021, to shareholders of record at the close of business on January 18, 2021.

Conference Call Information

The Company will be hosting the following conference call to discuss its third quarter financial results and answer questions.

About QEP

Founded in 1979, Q.E.P. Co., Inc. is a leading global provider of high quality, innovative and value-driven flooring and flooring installation solutions. QEP manufactures, markets and sells a comprehensive line of flooring installation tools, adhesives, and underlayment for both consumers as well as professional installers. Under the Harris Flooring Group , QEP manufactures and offers a complete line of hardwood, luxury vinyl, and modular carpet tile. QEP sells its products throughout the world to home improvement retail centers, professional specialty distribution outlets, and flooring dealers under brand names including QEP, LASH, Roberts, Harris Flooring Group, Capitol, HarrisWood, Kraus, Naturally Aged Flooring, Vitrex, Homelux, Brutus, PRCI, Plasplugs, Tomecanic, Premix-Marbletite (PMM), Apple Creek and Elastiment.

QEP is headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida with offices in Canada, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. Please visit our website at http://www.qepcorporate.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements contained in this press release, other than statements of historical facts, may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements can be identified by words such as "expects," "plans," "projects," "will," "may," "anticipates," "believes," "should," "intends," "estimates," and other words of similar meaning. Any forward-looking statements contained herein are based on current expectations and beliefs, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding economic conditions, sales growth, price increases, profit improvements, product development and marketing, operating expenses, cost savings, acquisition integration, operational synergy realization, global sourcing, political uncertainty, cash flow, debt and currency exchange rates. Forward-looking statements may also be adversely affected by general market factors, competitive product development, product availability, federal and state regulations and legislation, manufacturing issues that may arise, patent positions and litigation, among other factors. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date the statements were made, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

-Financial Information Follows-

CONTACT: Q.E.P. Co., Inc.Enos BrownExecutive Vice President andChief Financial Officer561-994-5550

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Q.E.P. Co., Inc. Reports Fiscal 2021 Nine Month and Third Quarter Financial Results and Announces a 5 Percent Special Stock Dividend - GlobeNewswire

Comprising a well-researched and geographically inclusive selection of design objects, documentation of offsite projects, and scientific testimonials to the earths accelerating ecological collapse, the Museum of Modern Arts Broken Nature exhibition proffers an array of individually innovative ideas that, when considered in relation to the situation at hand, ultimately prompt more concerns for the future of design as we now know it, rather than (as the catalog lays out) a clear ideological framework through which it might lead us into a less destructive future.

The show is installed on the MoMAs public (free) ground floor gallery closest to 53rd Street in Manhattan, where floor-to-ceiling windows are situated across the street from andin clear conversation with the bougie gleam of modern and contemporary design objects in the museums own design store.

Curated by Paola Antonelli, senior curator of the MoMAs Department of Architecture and Design, Broken Nature proposes not so much of a reimagining of the structures that delivered us to this moment as pseudo-spiritual repentance to Gaia, suggesting that design can conceive a multitude of solutions to the exponentially accelerating forces of climate change while retaining the support of centralized wealth through the invention of environmentally consciousyet still aesthetically pleasingproducts. While transmuting the original 2019 exhibition in Milan (which was nearly six times larger) into one of the smallest galleries in the museum required the exclusion of some of the more sprawling or intricate projects, the selection on view at MoMA feels too sanitized for an exhibition about the literal apocalypse.

One of the best examples of restorative design included in the exhibition is the Maldives/Sandbars project (201819), which uses the oceans own wave patterns to encourage the regrowth of sandbars around the that have been worn away from rising sea levels. The aerial photographs on display in the exhibition demonstrate the re-accumulation of sand beneath the lagoon, encouraged by strategically placed concrete structures anchored to the ocean floor, using the oceans own movements to rebuild the atolls natural defenses from flooding as they break up incoming waves.

Yet, much of the shows language smacks of selective blindness to the scope and machinations of structural inequality, one of the biggest hurdles to comprehensive, collective action in the fight to slow climate change. In describing Alexander Groves and Azusa Murakamis Palm Stool from the Can City project (2013), the catalog describes the catadores (trash pickers) of So Paulo as breathing new life into the materials they source from the landfill in their artisanal enterprise of creating jewelry or furniture from the citys scrap. While the designers concept of a mobile foundry, cleverly constructed from local materials and used to create the aluminum furniture on view in the exhibition, is undoubtedly a useful one, the tired dynamic between an utterly disenfranchised caste of laborers and the appropriation of their practices by a privileged design studio is clearly present.

Aki Inomatas Think Evolution #1: Kiku-ichi (Ammonite) (201617) provides another useful metaphor for the past and future of humans inhabitation of the earth: an HD video shows a small octopus exploring the interior of a clear resin 3D print of an ammonite fossil. In an earlier stage of their evolution, the notoriously clever cephalopods used to inhabit shells (similar to the behavior of a hermit crab) but eventually dispensed with this tendency in order to more efficiently evade predators, rendering Inomatas video both a meditation on the generational transmission of instinctual behavior and a clever visual framework through which we might consider a de-evolution of our own preferred habitats.

Perhaps most affecting objects in the exhibition are those comprised of manmade materials and designed by natureKelly Jazvacs Plastiglomerate (2013), a series of irregularly shaped lumps of variegated plastic, compressed and pressured to sedimentary rock-like density; one might think of the catalogs call for elegance under pressure, an apt metaphor for precious gems, however, the Plastiglomerate are anything but elegant. Punctuated by flecks of neon-hued debris and tattered strands of castoff polymers, these objects feel more like coldly prognostic markers of the late Anthropocene than emphatically ominous evidence regarding the geological characteristics of an epoch whose outcome is yet unfolding. Examples of the series are well-placed just to the right of the entrance, establishing a logically coherent but rather hopeful node between the chic algae-based carafes from Studio Klarenbeek & Dros for Atelier Luma and Mandy Barkers (2016).

The latter also focuses on the abundance of plastic detritus disrupting the planets natural processes, but on the microscopic level. The long-exposure photos take the format of the natural history plates created by 19th-century marine biologist John Vaughan Thompson, who amassed and documented an archive of plankton samples off the coast of Ireland. Barkers iteration uses modern technology to capture much clearer pictures of the microorganisms populating 21st-century seassourced from the same location Thompson used, Cork Harbourhowever, instead of plankton, the images exhibit microplastics. Consumed by plankton, these microscopic fragments of plastic bags, netting, and other debris make their way into every facet of the aquatic ecosystem from the bottom up.

While every work in the show was conceived in response to the climate crisis, the Plastiglomerates are the only truly found objects on view, representing humans permanent impact on the earth and invoking an eerie reassurance that the earth will endure long after were gone, and perhaps eventually recover from our presence. While their presence between the microscopic shards of polymer and the tastefully minimalist home goods makes a clear statement regarding the aesthetic and practical possibilities for transitioning away from synthetic materials, many of the objects sleek allure remain predicated upon and as yet inexorable from a global economy unlikely to de-escalate and refocus the parameters of production to an extent that will save the planet and its inhabitants (humans included) from a destruction of our own making.

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Chic-osystem Form outshines function at the MoMA's Broken Nature - The Architect's Newspaper

Faade installation has resumed at611 West 56th Street, aka823 Eleventh Avenue, a 450-foot-tall condominium tower in Hells Kitchen. Designed by Portuguese architectAlvaro SizawithSLCEas the architect of record, and developed bySumaida + KhuranaandLENY, the 37-story tower will yield 80 units designed byGabellini Sheppard Associates.

Recent photos show the bright limestone curtain wall surpassing the halfway point of the slender tower. At the time of our last update in late August, the faade only covered the seven-story podium and work appeared stalled.

611 West 56th Street. Photo by Michael Young

611 West 56th Street. Photo by Michael Young

611 West 56th Street. Photo by Michael Young

611 West 56th Street. Photo by Michael Young

Scaffolding rigs on the wide southern elevation mark the transition point of the different layers of the exterior assembly.

611 West 56th Street. Photo by Michael Young

611 West 56th Street. Photo by Michael Young

611 West 56th Street. Photo by Michael Young

The rear northern wall is largely blank, but retains the same pattern of a parquet floor tiling depicted in previous renderings that show the extended mechanical portion above the last habitable floor. This can be seen in the next several images below.

611 West 56th Street. Photo by Michael Young

611 West 56th Street, designed by Alvaro Siza

611 West 56th Street. Photo by Michael Young

The concrete and cinder block walls have been painted black and await the rest of the metal framework that will hold up the limestone.

611 West 56th Street. Photo by Michael Young

A formal completion date for 611 West 56th Street has not been announced, though sometime in the second half of 2021 is possible.

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Faade Installation Resumes at 611 West 56th Street in Hell's Kitchen, Manhattan - New York YIMBY

Dustin George|The Shelby Star

Two Cleveland County high school gyms will have a fresh new look later this year.

The Board of Education voted on Monday to approve a project to replace gym floors and bleachers at Burns and Crest high schools. The projects, which will cost around $484,000, will be completed by H2I Group, a national contractor company which has been in business for over 90 years. The final price includes a $30,000 contingency should any repairs need to be done to the concrete underneath the gym floors.

H2I Group was one of four companies to bid for the gym floor project and one of only three to bid for bleacher replacement projects at both schools. It was one of only two companies to submit a combined bid for both schools.It's combined bid was nearly $21,000 lower than the only other bid, placed by Southern Floor, a contractor out of South Carolina.

Replacing the floors has been a key priority for the district over the last year.

The floors really need replacing, said board member Danny Blanton, who, along with board chair Robert Queen and member Greg Taylor visited Crest ahead of Mondays meeting.

There are visible humps and cracks between the boards ...The bleachers are the original equipment,that's when the schools was built over 50 years ago. They've had plastic covers simply put over the original structures," Blanton said.

Board members did not visit Burns before the meeting, but Blanton said the floors and bleachers are the same age and in similar states of disrepair.

"We expect the floors at Burns will need to be replaced in the very near future. We do save money by replacing the floors and bleachers at both schools at the same time, he said.

Work on the gym floors will being later this year, following a pair of projects to install new HVAC and humidity control units in both gyms. Those projects were approved by the board in October and will be necessary to keep the new floors warrantied if anything should go wrong after they are installed.

The HVAC projects will begin at the conclusion of the current basketball season and should be completed by summer. The new floors and bleachers will begin after that work is finished.As the floors are removed, both schools will sellpieces of them to raise money for their respective athletics departments.

Original post:
Board approves new floors, bleachers at Crest and Burns high schools - Shelby Star

Rep. Bob Lattas deputy chief of staff said in a statement the representative did trigger the metal detector.

COLUMBUS, Ohio Three Ohio congressmen have reportedly taken issue with new metal detectors installed outside the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, objecting to increased security measures put in place after insurrectionists stormed the U.S. Capitol building just a week ago.

All three of them Reps. Steve Stivers of Upper Arlington, Bob Gibbs of Lakeville and Bob Latta of Bowling Green previously supported efforts to install metal detectors in school buildings as a method of preventing school violence.

The U.S. House of Representatives met Tuesday evening to debate a resolution asking Vice President Mike Pence to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove President Donald Trump from office. The body convened again Wednesday morning to consider a vote to impeach the president for his actions related to the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol which left five people dead, including a police officer.

Metal detectors were recently installed within the building.

Matt Fuller, a reporter for The Huffington Post, has made note of several Republican lawmakers who oppose the new security measure.Fuller reported that Gibbs walked around the metal detector on Wednesday morning.Latta reportedly set off the metal detector on Wednesday, but walked past law enforcement officers to enter the House floor.

On Tuesday,Fuller reported that Stivers went through the metal detector but told the officers present he thought it was unconstitutional.

The Ohio Capital Journal asked spokespersons for the three lawmakers to explain their objections to the metal detectors, particularly in light of their prior support for detectors inside Ohio schools.

Rebecca Card Angelson, Lattas deputy chief of staff, said in a statement the representative did trigger the metal detector.

(Congressman Latta) has the utmost respect for the Capitol police and the work they do to keep the Capitol grounds and all who are on it safe, Angelson wrote. This is a new procedure in place and the Congressman did display his phone and keys as he went through the metal detectors so the police officers could see why the alarm was triggered. The Congressman did not hear anything further from the Capitol Police as he went through the metal detector, so the Congressman proceeded to the House floor to vote.

Spokespersons for Gibbs and Stivers did not respond to a request for comment.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is pushing for the chamber to institute fines for lawmakers who do not go through the metal detectors properly.The Associated Press reported Pelosi has proposed a fine of $5,000 for a first offense and $10,000 for a second offense to be deducted from their congressional salaries.

In 2018, all three representatives voted for the Students, Teachers, and Officers Preventing (STOP) School Violence Act. Stivers was also a co-sponsor for the bill.

The legislation sought to address the issue of school violence by developing better training practices and creating a new system to anonymously report potential threats of violence.

The bill would have also allocated grant funding for school districts to install metal detectors and other deterrent measures,according to a summary of the legislation.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the legislation, but it failed upon not being passed by the U.S. Senate.

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Ohio congressmen take issue with U.S. Capitol metal detectors; supported them in schools - WTOL