ROCKY RIVER, Ohio The City of Rocky River is working hard to complete the large amount of construction projects taken on in 2020.

The citys Safety Service Director, Rich Snyder, provided a list of updates on the projects as we enter autumn.

The updates include:

Story Road: Sidewalks are in and most of the final asphalt is done. Repairs have been made to the signal loop and normal signal operation at Story Road and Wooster Road is expected next week. Traffic will resume to normal, two-way traffic on Thursday, Sept. 24.

2020 tree and sidewalk program The majority of the project is complete with a few punch list items remaining. All work is expected to be completed within the next two weeks.

Rocky River police station The north wall of the police station block is in and the contractor will begin working on the west wall. Bids will be going out for the landscape portion of this project next week.

2020 street repair program The concrete subcontractor is working through the streets. Asphalt milling will take place within the next two weeks.

Center Ridge Road signalization project Miller Cable is the contractor for the project. Construction will begin on Tuesday, Sept. 22.

Bradstreets Landing There appears to be a lowest bidder for this project. The contract is currently under review by city council.

Rocky River Chamber of Commerce Coordinated a planting event at city hall park gazebo on Sept. 19. Thank you for your cooperation in beautifying our city and parks.

Riverdale - The Riverdale Drive road widening project by Great Lakes Construction is complete with the exception of a few punch list items.

We would like to thank all the residents in the area for all their patience and consideration during the construction. While the construction portion of the project is complete, the city will be continuing with a beautification project in the area that will include the clearing of overgrown brush and dead trees along Yacht Club Drive and the installation of new trees and ornamental grasses between Yacht Club Drive and Riverdale Drive.

Additionally, we will be performing a sewer project to mitigate flooding on South Island Drive and a resurfacing project for the remainder of Riverdale Drive and South Island Drive in 2021. We are also in the process of evaluating the parking area under the bridge and planning aesthetic improvements.

For questions contact Director of Public Safety Service, Rich Snyder, at 440-331-0600.

See more here:
City of Rocky River beginning to see an end to 2020 construction projects - cleveland.com

The crisp fall air is calling our name as COVID-19 restrictions remain in place. With most of us spending way more time at home than ever before, its important to go outside and get some vitamin D before winter comes {cue the Game of Thrones references}. Living in a city, however, can make it challenging to get some quality time on your own without too many people around.

Well, you came to the right place as below are the top 10 best spots in Hoboken, Jersey City, and the surrounding areas to get some outdoor peace and quiet.

{Photo credit: @followstevens}

Youd be surprised how few people realize that a top-ranked STEM university is located right in the heart of Hoboken. And what many people dont know is how beautiful, picturesque, and oddly peaceful the campus is. To see for yourself and get some quiet time, make your way to Castle Point Lookout. PS: youll find some of the best views in town here, too.

A beachanda city like Hoboken might not seem like a likely pairing, but the Mile Square is actually home to a small, sandy, beach-like area. If you walk over to Maxwell Place, youll find the Hoboken Kayaking Company adjacent to a small area of sand along the Hudson River. Sure, its no Jersey Shore, but you can still get that dipping the sand beneath your toes sort of feeling while hearing the waves crash.

Just before the skatepark on Sinatra Drive, there is a charming gazebo right on the water. If you go early in the morning, you may be the only one inside and can absolutely get some peace and quiet while watching commuters engage in their morning rush to get to work on time or those going for an early morning run.

Read More: 10 Fun Fall Activities to Do in New Jersey

For some seriously off-the-beaten-path secluded solitude, look no further than the Hoboken viaduct. The viaduct is the perfect hidden, quiet place that actually leads locals from Hoboken to Union City. And if you need some furry companions, theres a dog park nearby as well.

{Photo credit: @monroe_center_hoboken}

If you head west to the Monroe Center and youll find some benches at the north end between the buildings that offer some lovely solitude for those in need of some downtime. While youre there order a Shaka Bowl to go, make your way to the benches, and enjoy your meal alfresco.

For those in need of a brief, serene escape, get out of Hoboken and make your way to Weehawken to visit Lincoln Harbor. This area does not have a ton of foot traffic, but it does have some really great restaurants {that are open for outdoor dining}, and perfect views that can complement your peace and quiet.

See More: Your Guide to Pumpkin and Apple Picking in North Jersey

If youre looking for a change of pace to your normal running or walking routine, head to Lincoln Park West. There is a trail that runs for about a mile through a marsh in Lincoln Park in Jersey City and is perfectly serene for those in need of a minute to themselves.

Before a day of Zoom meetings gets too hectic, stop by Columbus Park in the center courtyard by the fountain for an early morning period of relaxation. For some extra you-time, be sure to check out the lower garden for prime and seculded bench seating.

Hidden on 11th street between Madison and Monroe are some seriously peaceful picnic tables perfect for an alfresco meal or to enjoy some much-needed alone time. The beautiful vines frame the tables and are a calming and private part of town.

Having opened five years ago, the Weekhawken Reservoir still remains a bit of a secret to visitors and locals alike. This 14-acre reservoir sits on the Palisades above the New Jersey entrance to the Lincoln Tunnel and features walking and running trails along the perimeter that are great for a calming walk or run.

Have you ever been to any of these spots? Do you have any other places to get some peace and quiet in Hoboken and/or the surrounding towns? Comment below!

Excerpt from:
The Best Spots in Hoboken, Jersey City, + Beyond for Peace and Quiet - hobokengirl.com

Thursday marked the 233rd anniversary of the signing of the Constitution of the United States. To raise awareness for the anniversary, Eric Robyn and Art Halvorson, both local retired militay men, put together an abridged reading of the document on Thursday morning at the gazebo in the Public Square.

We knew that his anniversary was coming up and, having served in the military, we took an oath to support and defend the Constitution, so were really serious about how important the Constitution is, Robyn said. Its what makes America so exceptional. Its the foundation for all that happens in our country.

Theres a reason the United States is still in existence and the most powerful nation in history, Halvorson said. And it goes back to this document.

Robyn and Halvorson are part of a group unofficially named the ROMEOs Retired Old Men Eating Out that meets every Wednesday morning for breakfast.

They are also both associated with Officers Christian Fellowship.

We decided, Lets celebrate it, Robyn said.

The hour-long celebration began with a presentation of the colors by the Ford Bedford Color Guard, followed by the national anthem and pledge of allegiance.

Then came the abridged reading of the Constitution.

Its so important for us to pass this inheritance down and help the next generation understand what we have been given, Robyn said, mentioning that some people may not have read or may not understand the Constitution.

Halvorson and Robyn both emphasized their appreciation for the Constitution.

If you have a solid foundation, the house will stand. And it still stands. And I think it will continue to stand, Halvorson said. So far, weve gone through a Civil War, World Wars, and its held together. Remarkable.

We owe a lot to those before us, Robyn said. We want a deep appreciation for (those who died protecting it).

We can keep the fire burning, Halvorson added. If we dont do it, whos going to do it? So thats what were trying to do.

They said they hope to continue the celebrations annually.

Go here to read the rest:
Patriots gather to celebrate Constitution Day | Local News - bedfordgazette.com

City of Cottonwood Art Exhibit: Close-Ups of Nature by Carol Carbine

Meet Carol Carbine from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26 and ask her questions about her City of Cottonwood Art Exhibit: Close-Ups of Nature.

The exhibit is on display at Cottonwood Council Chambers, 826 N. Main St. in Old Town Cottonwood.

For more than two years, Carbine has studied Cottonwoods landscapes.

Im in my own world of spirituality when experiencing nature in its simple yet complex structures, she said. Sometimes it seems as though the scene has been set only for an artist to come along to interrupt it. That is what I have done with Close-ups of Nature.

Face masks are required while viewing the artwork.

No pickles nor pies at this years Fort Verde Days

The Verde Valley Questers will not sell their pickles nor their pies during this years Fort Verde Days.

Normally the Questers sell their homemade treats at the historic Hance House, but this year, the Hance House is closed for repairs, restoration and renovation.

Your past support of our pie sales has enabled the beautiful restorative work on this historic Camp Verde home, said Verde Valley Questers Pickles and Pies Fundraiser Co-Chairs Diana Hopper and Deborah Schwallie. Thank you for your interest in this project, in our communitys history and in the Verde Valley Questers Pickles and Pies Fundraiser. We look forward to seeing you next year during Fort Verde Days when we plan to return to the Hance House to sell our homemade goods. We hope you will come again in 2021 to enjoy the sale and join us in support of historic preservation.

Windmill Park Farmers Market open through December

The Windmill Park Farmers Market in Cornville is open through December.

Located at 9550 Cornville Road, come to the market to shop for fresh local organic foods along the creek, under the trees, in the cool grass of a beautiful park.

Cornville American Legion car show is Saturday

Cornville American Legion Post 135 and Auxiliary, in cooperation with Galpin Auto and RV, will host the fourth annual Oktoberfest Car Show, Saturday, Sept. 26. Parking starts at 7:30 a.m. The show opens at 9 a.m. Judging is at noon, followed by an awards presentation.

Galpin RV is at 925 E. State Route 89A, Cottonwood. Available spaces are increased to 70.

All types and years of cars and trucks are welcome to compete. Pre-registration is $20 and registration the day of the event is $25. Spectators can attend free of charge.

Each registered driver will receive a free lunch. Masks are encouraged and COVID-19 protective measures will be in effect.

Seven trophies will be awarded, including the Commanders Choice, chosen by event coordinator, Jan Allbright and Judge, Wayne Boren.

Making this year memorable, the post recently learned that their name changes from Cornville to American Legion Donald C. Thompson Post 135, recognizing a past Cornville resident and World War II pilot who died in 2009.

Applications for registration can also be found at: arizonacarshows.com, by calling 928-649-3374 or by emailing sicily84@cableone.net.

Jerome cancels this years Firefighters Halloween Ball

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Jerome Volunteer Fire Department auxiliary will not host this years Firefighters Halloween Ball.

Each year, this is the auxiliarys biggest fundraiser for the year, with an average of more than $9,000 profit for the event.

Without this income, it will be hard to sustain the Jerome Fire Department Auxiliary's needs the Auxiliary provides for some training, uniforms and additional equipment not budgeted for in the town's budget, Auxiliary President Burt Doss stated in a news release.

The auxiliary asks the public for donations through a Go Fund Me or Pay Pal accounts. If you are not computer savvy and wish to make a donation you can mail it to the Jerome Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary at P.O. Box 1025, Jerome, Arizona 86331.

It is the auxiliaries hope that you would be able to generously donate to our cause which directly benefits the Jerome Volunteer Fire Department, Doss stated. The Jerome Fire Department Auxiliary is a 501 (c) (3). Any donation can be used as a tax deduction.

Visit the Jerome Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliarys web page or Facebook for more donation information.

If you would like to receive a receipt from the Fire Departments auxiliary include your mailing address.

8-week classes start Oct. 12

Yavapai College will offer a variety of eight-week classes to help students catch up, get ahead or even launch a new life direction.

The nearly 100 classes will start Oct. 12 and will offer something for the lifelong learner. A list of eight-week classes is at yc.edu/v6/marketing/pages/eight-week-classes.html.

Womens Suffrage Exhibit at Camp Verde Library through Sept. 29

Womens Suffrage Centennial Exhibit is at Camp Verde Community Library through Sept. 29.

The traveling exhibit was designed and funded by the Arizona State Organization of Questers gives viewers an opportunity to look back at the effort it took for women to be granted full citizenship and the vote.

Although history has downplayed suffrage as a footnote in American history, it was the nations largest civil rights movement.

Six illustrated freestanding banners in the Questers Womens Suffrage Exhibit describe the reasons suffragists fought for the vote, the actions they took, obstacles they faced, the suffrage campaign in Arizona, and progress women have made since gaining the right to vote.

Camp Verde Community Library is at 130 N. Black Bridge Road. The Womens Suffrage Centennial Exhibit is on the first floor of the library and can be seen during library open hours, Monday Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Call 928-554-8380 for more information.

Sedona cancels three fall signature events

With Gov. Doug Duceys executive order prohibiting public group gatherings of more than 50 people and the citys desire to keep residents and visitors safe, Sedonas Parks and Recreation Department will not hold the following three events this fall:

Sedona Stumble Trail Run, Oct. 3;

Pumpkin Splash, Oct. 17;

Uptown Trick-or-Treat, Oct. 31.

For more information about Parks and Recreation opportunities, visit sedonaaz.gov/parks.

Give blood at Mingus Union, Sept. 30

The next Mingus Union High School blood drive will be from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30 at the high schools small gymnasium.

Mingus Union High School is at 1801 E. Fir St, Cottonwood.

Masks are required to come to campus. Please park in the dirt lot across the street from the school off Camino Real. No fasting required. Bring picture ID. Appointments can be booked online through vitalant.org but are not required. Vitalant is offering free anti-body testing with your donation. Drink lots of water and eat a good breakfast before you give blood.

Job and Career Virtual Fair 2020

Yavapai College will hold its Job and Career Virtual Fair 2020 from 2:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6 at YC.edu/jobfair.

Learn about the latest information about careers. Apply for part-time, full-time and temporary jobs. Meet with representatives from business, healthcare and non-profit organizations.

For more information, visit http//bit.ly/YavCtyJobFair or email Katherine.Anderson@yc.edu.

Wanted: Hi-Lo Yearbooks

Did you or someone in your family attend Mingus Union High School in Jerome?

Clarkdale Historical Society and Museum is seeking copies of the Hi-Lo yearbooks dated 1959 to 1972.

Though the school was located in Jerome, sports were practiced and played in Clarkdale, said Michael Lindner, CHSM president. That makes them relevant to Clarkdale.

CHSM would like to borrow any of the issues not currently in the collection. The property will not be harmed in any way. It will be returned to the owner after it is scanned.

To help, call 928-649-1198 or email info@clarkdalemuseum.org.

Visitors can peruse copies of the Clarkdale High School Alchemist (1920-1950) and the Hilltopper (1952-1957) by visiting the CHSM website at clarkdalemuseum.org.

Yappy Hour returns Sept. 24

Starting Sept. 24, the city of Sedonas Parks and Recreation Department will bring back Yappy Hour on Thursdays from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. on the multi-use field in Posse Grounds Park.

This is the opportunity for your four-legged friend to run and socialize with other dogs. Per city code and park rules, dogs are not allowed on the athletic fields and are required to be on a leash, but during Yappy Hour, participants get to bend those rules.

For the safety of participants, the following new COVID-19 considerations and safety protocols have been implemented:

-Dog owners must physically distance at least six feet. If not able to maintain the six-foot distance, dog owners must wear a face covering recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

-If a dog owner is not feeling well or is experiencing any COVID-19 or flu-like symptoms, they should stay home.

-Sharing of dog toys or other equipment is discouraged.

-Owners are responsible to provide their own water bowls, toys/equipment, etc.

-It is highly recommended dog owners wash their hands before and after.

-As a courtesy, please do not arrive prior to start time as participants will not be allowed on the field until 9 a.m.

Other important tips to remember and share with fellow dog owners so that the program continues are: all dog park rules apply and owners are responsible for the safety and behavior of their dogs, including picking up after their pets and observing city code and park rules outside of Yappy Hour.

If there is a high volume of violators using the fields during non-program hours, or participants are not following COVID-19 protocols, this program will be discontinued.

For more information and to review the rules in full detail, visit sedonaaz.gov/parks.

Clarkdale plans Halloween events but cancels 2020 Safe Trick or Treating

The Town of Clarkdale typically hosts the Safe Trick or Treating event on Halloween each year with more than 1,500 trick-or-treaters and their families visiting the streets of upper Clarkdale.

Due to COVID-19 and public health and safety concerns for the children and their families, the Town will not hold its annual Halloween event as usual this year. To keep the Halloween spirit alive, Clarkdale will instead do the following:

-Decorate Town Park gazebo: Town staff, along with the help of volunteers, will decorate the Town Park and gazebo with festive Halloween decorations, thanks to sponsor State Farm Agent Jennifer Griffin.

-Best Halloween House Decorating Competition: Clarkdale residents will compete for the best decorated home. Entries will be posted online for the public to vote for a Peoples Choice winner and judges will choose the First-Place winner.

-Virtual Childrens Costume Contest: Clarkdales traditional costume contest takes on a new look this year. Verde Valley children will compete for the best costume in their age group. Entries will be accepted online through the Towns Facebook page.

If you would like to contribute to Halloween 2020 or sponsor the Halloween House Competition or the Childrens Costume Contest, here is how you can donate:

-Drop off at the Town Administration Building at 39 N. 9th St., Clarkdale

-Mail to: Town of Clarkdale, Attn: Parks & Recreation, P.O. Box 308, Clarkdale, AZ 86324

For planning purposes, donations would be appreciated by Sept. 12.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Parks & Recreation Department at 928-639-2460 or by email: parks.rec@clarkdale.az.gov.

Sedona, Yavapai County collect hazardous waste, electronics, Oct. 3

The City of Sedona and Yavapai County will host a free household hazardous waste and electronics collection day on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 8 a.m. until noon at the Sedona City Hall complex, 102 Roadrunner Drive.

This event is for residents of Sedona and unincorporated Yavapai County. Be prepared to wear a mask and show a drivers license and one utility bill as proof of residence.

Waste that will be accepted includes aerosol paints and spray products, batteries, computer equipment, gasoline, household cleaners, kerosene, light bulbs, pesticides, pool chemicals, small appliances, small electronic devices, standard grill and camping propane tanks, oil-based paints, stains, solvents, thinners, televisions and adhesives.

Waste that will not be accepted includes ammunition and fireworks, lead acid batteries or any vehicle batteries, commercial business waste, explosives, compressed gas cylinders other than propane such as oxygen, latex paints, medical waste or prescription drugs, motor oil and oil filters, radioactive materials including smoke detectors, tires of any kind or any other material or items not listed in the accepted list.

To dispose of some of the items not accepted at this collection, add kitty litter or sawdust to latex paint to dry it out and dispose with regular trash. If you can remove the dried paint from the can, please recycle the can.

Prescription drugs can be taken to the Sedona Police Department lobby at the City Hall complex and deposited in the prescription drop box. Anyone can do this, and residency is not required.

Vehicle batteries and motor oil can be returned to garages or auto supply stores.

Sedona residents in Coconino County may participate. They also may drop off items year-round at the Flagstaff Hazardous Products Center. Visit flagstaff.az.gov/hpc or call 928-213-2159 for more information.

Disposing of hazardous waste in landfills contaminates drinking water and can kill wildlife. Throwing out electronics can waste billions of dollars in recoverable materials such as gold, silver, coltan, copper, palladium, platinum and other valuable metals. Proper disposal is important for protecting the health of humans and our environment.

For more information, contact Sustainability Coordinator McKenzie Jones at mjones@sedonaaz.gov or 928-203-5060.

September is Library Card Sign-up Month

September is Library Card Sign-up Month, a time when Camp Verde Community Library joins the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide to remind you that signing up for a library card is the first step on the path to academic achievement and lifelong learning.

As new technologies evolve, libraries continue to lead the way in providing equity of access to digital tools and media. At Camp Verde Community Library, in addition to the thousands of e-books available, youll find a wide variety of educational resources and activities, such as Tutor.com, World Book Online, Learning Express, Freegal Music, Tumblebooks, Mango Languages, UniversalClass Online Courses and Chilton Auto. All are available, free, with a library card.

Camp Verde Community Library continues to adapt and expand services to meet the evolving needs of our community and the times.

You can now sign up online for a temporary library card, which allows you to use all of the librarys online resources. Whenever you are ready to gain access to our physical collection, you can simply come in the library with a photo ID and proof of address to pick up your permanent card.

To sign up for a library card or to learn more about the librarys resources and programs, visit campverde.az.gov/departments/community-library.

Link:
Community events and announcements: Sept. 22, 2020 - Verde Independent

WILMINGTON Theres a debate that has been going for years now in the City of Wilmington: what can be or should be done about (or for) the citys homeless population, especially in Downtown and on the citys Riverwalk.

City council and staff frequently receive emails about the issue, ranging in tone from empathetic to frustrated. Some want the city to provide additional assistance for the homeless population, others just dont want them congregating in near their businesses.

Its worth noting that being homeless and living in poverty are not crimes and, while there are some resources available for these residents of Wilmington, there is no one size fits all solution to the situation.

In the past few months several incidents that have occurred in Wilmington have been attributed to the homeless population, but does homelessness have anything to do with an increased amount of crime? And has the current pandemic exacerbated homelessness and criminal activities?

According to the Wilmington Police Departments Lieutenant Stephanie Boucher (who also heads the Wilmington Downtown Taskforce), the answer is no.

Over the past couple of months, there have been a few criminal incidents attributed to the homeless population.

First, there were multiple robberies of Anne Bonnys, a restaurant on a barge docked off of the Riverwalk on South Water Street, located near the Vistors Center. Next was the incident where a man was charged with public consumption, disorderly conduct, and indecent exposure for jumping in the Cape Fear River naked.

Both of these incidents were confirmed by Boucher to be committed by members of the homeless community. But according to Boucher, despite what she had expected due to the decrease in tourists and people in Wilmington, crimes committed by the homeless have not been on the rise.

There are also allegations that there are members of the homeless community harassing people as they walk by the area making it a less desirable spot to even visit. Boucher said there have been a few calls and emails for these types of incidents, but unless the calls come in as the event is taking place, it is hard to track down any perpetrators.

Not everyone that is downtown causes issues and we do address issues when they come up, Boucher said.

If and when someone does create a problem (not just the homeless) like drinking in public, the police will take action and cite them or trespass them, Boucher said, but simply hanging out under the gazebo is not a crime. Although she did admit there were ordinances the police can enforce when people are causing problems, the Wilmington Police Department is not seeing a high number of these calls, she said.

The Vistors Center on the Riverwalk serves as a popular gathering space for some of Wilmingtons homeless population which, for some business owners and residents, is a problem.

Over the past several years the city has spent over $10 million in the past few years renovating the entire Riverwalk, including the Visitors Center, which was renovated in 2017.

The property offers a variety of amenities including tables, chairs, bathrooms, power outlets, and shelter from the weather. These amenities are not only for tourists but for all residents and visitors this includes the citys homeless population.

Randy Evans runs the nonprofit organization Walking Tall Wilmington, an outreach group that works directly with those living in poverty.

Walking Tall Wilmington exists to build interpersonal relationships with individuals experiencing poverty through giving full access, so that they may experience community through safe and sacred spaces of healing, according to the groups website. We freely give to those living in extreme poverty not only with basic needs and supplies, but also the need of friendship. We believe that relationships with others is what will pull people out of the poverty cycle, not disability checks and steam tables. Through these relationships, we build trust, something that is often lacking when a life is stuck in poverty.

Its not unusual to see Evans down at the Visitors Center five days a week providing meals to the homeless. But, while many commend the work Evans is doing, others condemn his actions. There have been complaints by business owners near the gazebo that Evans actions have led to an increased homeless population in the area something that is seen as bad for business but Evans disputes that argument.

In 2017 I started down there and brought breakfast, it was real simple. I was just trying to meet people on the streets and actually get to know people, Evans said.

At first, there was some resistance to Evans being down at the Visitors center, he said, but, for him, it is about equality and also legality. There are some city ordinances that would prevent someone from feeding people on a city street or right of way, but the Visitors center is a city park and in city parks, picnics are allowed.

There were a lot of issues with me being down there, but I was noticing, why was it okay for school groups to eat down there, what were they doing differently? Evans said. All they were doing was eating a meal together.

Evans also said that while he does have more interactions with the population than most people do, he is not responsible for them, nor is he their keeper although some business owners have laid blame at Evans feet he said.

Ive definitely been pointed at for anything and everything that happens down at that gazebo, Evans said.

Evans and the police have a good relationship and he is happy to have the number of interactions with police that he does. The city has installed cameras at the Visitors Center to keep an eye on things something Evans is actually happy to have for the sake of transparency.

These cameras have helped shed a light on what is going on at the Visitors Center and help capture any potential crimes that are being committed there.

Evans and the police seem to be on the same page when it comes to crime: regardless of your income, people should be held accountable for their actions.

The thing that I have always said about that area is that I am there maybe five hours a week we do our best to clean up, we have relationships with two of the city workers who are amazing, he said. But when I walk away from that place Im not the innkeeper of the gazebo. Ive said it many times, that if someone is breaking the law, regardless if they are in poverty or not call the police.

There have been plenty of people who have asked what can be done about the homeless population at the gazebo? The answer to that, though, isnt as simple as some would like.

Services like homeless shelters and other housing resources are available in Wilmington, but they are not a one size fits all solution. Boucher said that she has spoken to many of the citys homeless population who might not be comfortable or have some sort of personal reason they dont want to go to a shelter.

Ultimately, Wilmingtons homeless situation is not something that is going away and police, as well as outreach groups, are working to ensure everyone in the city is safe and will continue to hold everyone accountable for their actions.

More:
Wilmington's homeless gather at Riverwalk gazebo: it's not illegal, but it's not a solution, either - Port City Daily

WITH the weather warming up, you might be looking for a way to create some shade in your garden.

We've rounded up a great range of cheap parasols available at the moment, and some gazebos to provide some rain cover if needed.

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While were in the middle of a mini heatwave, everyone is spending a lot more time in their gardens, especially as pubs and restaurants are not expected to open again until July.

Then with the announcement this week from Prime Minister Boris Johnson that from Monday we can have a limited number of people over to our gardens, its the perfect time to spruce up your outdoor space.

It may be beautiful weather right now, but given how changeable British weather is, its always best to prepare for all conditions and a gazebo for your garden could protect guests against rain showers.

Before you buy anything, its always worth checking the price at a few other shops to make sure youre getting the best price possible.

Tools like Google Shopping and PriceSpy, which logs the history of how much something costs, are a good place to start.

Of course, even if something looks like a bargain, unless you actually need it, and can afford it, its not worth buying.

If you are in the market for a new gazebo or parasol, here weve listed our pick of the cheapest available.

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This green and white gazebo doesn't have sides but will keep out most of the rain.

It measures 2.35m x 2.35m and is on sale at B&M.

You can't buy online so you'll need to check with your local store if it has it, which you can do by calling it up.

Use the B&M store finder tool to find your nearest branch.

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This is a basic but effective gazebo from Dunelm, which will protect you and your guests from passing showers.

It's a plastic, wipe clean, material on a metal base and comes with guy ropes to pin it down. The measurements are 300cm by 300cm by 245cm.

You can order for home delivery, for 3.95, or choose click and collect which is free.

You can locate your nearest Dunelm store by using the online store finder tool.

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Asda says this grey gazebo will keep you safe from light rain showers, and it's 2.4m by 2.4m in size.

It has a push fit assembly and comes with ground pegs and ties to hold it down.

Delivery is from 2.95 and free for orders over 30.

If you're thinking of picking one up in store, use the Asda online shop finder tool to see where your nearest store is.

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If the weather gets really bad, which we're hoping it doesn't, this gazebo has sides so should provide a little more protection.

It's 25 at Studio, comes in green and blue, and is 2m by 2m wide.

Standard home delivery costs 4.99.

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Although you can't buy this parasol online, if it's for sale in your local B&M shop it's a great way to brighten up your garden.

You can also take it with you on outdoor trips, and move it about the garden when you need shade.

It also comes in a lemon design.

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These parasols are 1.8m wide and another great bargain from B&M and they come in three different colours.

You can't buy online from B&M but you could call your local store to see if it has them in stock.

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With most parasols you also need to buy a base, but this one can be tied onto almost anything.

It's three-meters wide and perfect for creating some shade, and a little rain protection, without having to worry about the parasol base.

Standard home delivery costs 4.99.

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This is one of the cheapest parasols we could find, on sale at Argos.

It's ideal for taking on picnics or trips to the beach, but you could also pop it up in your garden if you're after some shade.

Home delivery is from 3.95 or click and collect is free - although at the moment all standalone Argos shops are still closed.

You can still buy from Argos but you will need to prepay online and pick up in a Sainsbury's store which has an Argos concession.

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This beautifully bright parasol is sure to liven up your garden and is covered in a multicoloured fruit design.

You can stick it in the ground, plus it's portable which makes it ideal for packing on picnic or beach trips too.

It's 1.6meters wide and costs 18 at Argos. Standard home delivery costs are from 3.95.

RETURN OF THE MACMcDonald's reopens 160 drive thrus & 22 for delivery -heres the list

RETAIL REVIVALDates for when shops reopen including Sports Direct, Primark and Debenhams

SUMMER SUNB&M is selling its sun loungers with personal umbrellas again

FREED FROM FEESRenting fees ban extended to ALL tenants from today

NOT A-LOANMortgage holidays and home repossessions ban extended until end of October

ICE CREAM WARNINGMagnum ice cream and Calippos urgently recalled from UK supermarkets

If you want to jazz up your outdoor space, we've rounded up the cheapest furniture sets.

From solar lights to water features we've also got eight ways to upgrade your garden for under 100.

While if you want to grow a lawn, one savvy shopper transformed his lawn with a 1 Poundland grass seed.

Originally posted here:
Cheapest gazebos and parasols for your garden - The Sun

SASKATOON -- The first major windstorm of the season has caused widespread power outages in Saskatoon and has left city crews busy cleaning up the destruction left behind Monday.

It started as a thunderstorm watch for parts of western Saskatchewan Sunday afternoon and turned into a strong windstorm with winds reaching 99 km/h overnight.

Neil Meikle who lives on East Drive in the Eastview neighbourhood woke up to his neighbours shed in his yard.

There has also been reports of a gazebo being tossed from someones backyard into the street in the Stonebridge area.

A tree also fell on an SUV in the 2100 block of Lorne Avenue.

On 33rd Street and Avenue P, a large tree was blown over obstructing traffic. That area has since been cleaned up.

City of Saskatoon Light and Power reported that various homes and intersections had been without power including Lakeview, Lakeridge and surrounding area.

There is one major outage on the west side of the city, leaving 700 customers without power.

SaskPower told CTV News that theyve had numerous calls about the power lines in back alleys being struck by trees.

It reported a tree branch falling on a power line in Riverside Estates south of the city, causing a power outage in the area until 10 a.m. Monday.

SaskPower is asking people who see fallen equipment to stay 10 metres away and call 306-310-2220.

Terri Lang with Environment and Climate Change Canada told CTV News the wind speed of 99 km/h is not a record as winds have reached up to 150 km/h in our region before.

However, she said high winds like what was experienced Sunday night are usually associated with thunderstorms, but this one was the result of an epic battle between cold air from the north and warm temperatures in the south.

There is a wind warning issued for today, but Lang expects it to die down as the day progresses.

Excerpt from:
SUV, shed, gazebo just some of the casualties of intense Saskatoon windstorm - CTV News Saskatoon

Been eyeing up the Aldi gazebo? Us, too. With summer coming and all that hot weather forecast we are looking to make the most of our gardens. And while that means lying about on a sun lounger, it also means creating a cool, shaded spot outdoors, too.

For those of you lucky enough to have south-facing gardens, you'll know that you get very little shade all day. However, no one wants to block the sun out permanently with tons of tall planting, which makes a gazebo the perfect solution to offer the kids a comfortable, shaded place over their paddling pool or sandpit, or for you to be able to enjoy your hot tub without getting burnt as well as (mildly) boiled. Dress your gazebo up with outdoor rugs and garden furniture and you've got yourself an outdoor room, too. Gazebos are also must-haves for when it rains during that (possibly soon to be planned) camping trip.

Convinced? Take a look at the Aldi gazebo (picture, top, details below) and Lidl's new gazebo (picture and details, below). The downside to both? One's sold out and the other requires a trip to store. However, the good news is, we have plenty of other gazebo deals that other stores are offering.

Aldi gazebo, 59.99 (currently sold out online)With its easy-to-assemble foldable design, this Beige Pop Up Gazebo is just what your garden needs this summer. Perfect for those gorgeous afternoons, this gazebo comes with roof frame and aluminium legs, as well as an air vent. This gazebo is water-repellent and offers a roof with UV protection of 80+. There are two side panels, one of which comes with a window and Velcro fastenings.

Florabest Folding Aluminium Gazebo, 59.99 in storeLike the Aldi gazebo, there are two side panels with hook and loop fasteners for privacy and protection from the wind, and one side panel with a window. There are extendable legs for easy height adjustment, and it's made from water repellant material, too.

Argos Home 3m x 3m Garden Gazebo| 65 at Argos

Argos have some gazebos that are so cheap they needn't be on sale! This one has fab reviews and it such a great price. Although if you are after something even cheaper, check out this bargain from Argos that's just 25 maybe not amazing quality but would do for one summer.View Deal

Steel Party Tent | Was 78.99, now 50.14 at Wayfair

Let's be honest, we were sold at 'party tent'. This gazebo is made of UV- and water-resistant material, so you can rest assured it won't melt away to nothing if there's a rain shower. There are three side panels with decorative windows and one with a door. It measures 3x3m.View Deal

Outsunny 3 x 3 Meters Patio Garden Metal Gazebo | 118.71 at Amazon

This gorgeous gazebo is very similar to the Aldi gazebo everyone's after, and it's very similar in price, too. Lightweight but sturdy, it's large enough for a full outdoor dining set.View Deal

Got It Covered 4m x 4m Steel Pop-Up Gazebo | Was 199.99 at Wayfair

This nicely styled gazebo is very sturdy and strong and will protect you from a shower as well as strong sun. It's a pop up design that you can easily take down after using.View Deal

Hinckley Metal Patio Gazebo | Was 609.99, now 509.99 at Wayfair

If you really want to impress your friends and family (when they're allowed back over), this is the gazebo to do it with. It comes with a durable aluminium frame and weather and UV-resistant cover with stylish curtains. This high-end, 3x3m gazebo includes an LED interior centre light and strip lights on the roof ribs.

View Deal

Today's best gazebo prices...

Argos Home 3m x 3m Pop Up...

Shire Gazebo 7x7 Shiplap...

Rowlinson Gainsborough...

Rowlinson Sandringham Natural...

Continued here:
The Aldi gazebo has a rival: Lidl launches their own 59.99 buy (and we have more) - Real Homes

See the full issue of the June 400 Life magazinehere.

Guests with Georgia Glamping in Forsyth County are used to experiencing luxury (think A/C, Kuerig coffee maker) in one of the companys standard bell tents.

Then theres Roxy.

A 28-foot Riverside Retro Travel Trailer, theres room for four with a queen bed and two twin bunk beds. In addition, theres a kitchen, bath and shower, work space, mini-fridge, flatscreen TV and more in just 300 square feet.

Owners Rebeka and Nathan Self found the camper in Jacksonville, Florida, and drove it back to their home in Forsyth, where they spruced it up with just the right amount of shiplap and painted everything white, Rebeka says. They also added wood floors, a subway tile backsplash in the kitchen area and bamboo shades.

The result is the perfect blend of retro on the outside and modern farmhouse on the inside.

Georgia Glamping Company

7800 Allyn Lane Memorial Way, Cumming, GA 30041

(678) 801-6334, http://www.gaglamping.com

Continued here:
With Georgia Glamping's camper, guests get retro on the outside, luxury on the inside - Forsyth County News Online

On Wednesday, the same day Steinbrucks wife, Kim, hung three new bulbs on the gazebo, the country recorded its 100,000th death from the virus, a devastating milestone that passed without a formal, in-person commemoration from the person best positioned to draw attention to the solemn moment: President Trump.

In recent decades, presidents of both parties have stepped forward to allay national and individual grief after tragedies like the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion, the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, and mass shootings through speeches, moments of silence, or quiet meetings with the victims families, giving rise to terms like consoler-in-chief to describe an important part of their job.

But as the pandemics death toll has risen, Trump has done almost nothing publicly to mark its sheer human tragedy. Individuals and communities like Franklin Township are honoring it how they can, but Steinbruck called the lack of a national mourning effort a glaring omission.

Thats whats needed at a national level, he said, is someone to guide that process.

Although Trump routinely says one death is too many, his public statements about the virus are generally aimed at touting his claims of success in fighting it, rather than reckoning with its human toll. The approach is in keeping with his response to other national tragedies, when he has offered scripted speeches with little or no sign of significant emotional engagement.

Being a consoler-in-chief isnt, nor will it ever be, Donald Trumps strength as a politician or a commander-in-chief, said Colin Reed, a Republican strategist. Trump likes running on strength. Trump likes running on doing the things everyone says you shouldnt do. Hes decided to stick with the horse that brought him to the dance.

Trump has been greeted with his share of tragedy while in office, but has often manifested a discordantly upbeat or uncomfortable air when dealing with those incidents and their victims.

When he met with people who lost loved ones to mass shootings following the Parkland, Fla., tragedy, he carried a handwritten note reminding him to say I hear you. He was panned for playfully throwing paper towels into a crowd of Puerto Ricans whose lives had been upended by a deadly hurricane. And while greeting Texans in a Houston shelter after Hurricane Harvey, he doled out high-fives, told them to have a good time, and said the response to the storm had been wonderful.

That has created stark contrasts between Trump and his predecessors of both parties, some of whom prioritized and also managed to draw political benefits from consoling the country. And, in the current moment, it leaves the nation without the opportunity to grieve together at a time when the normal rituals of mourning, like in-person funerals, are already suspended.

To see an individual national leader as an empathetic figure and as a comforting figure and as a vulnerable figure is very powerful, and authorizes those things for others, said Micki McElya, a professor of history at the University of Connecticut. But reckoning with the national death toll could also be inconvenient for Trump, she said.

To highlight the staggering number of the dead is to highlight the staggering ineffectiveness of the national response, she said.

Trump ordered flags to be flown at half staff over Memorial Day weekend to mark the approaching 100,000-death milestone, and told reporters last month he had spoken privately with a handful of families who have lost a loved one to coronavirus. White House officials would not provide further details. They also would not say whether he had plans to meet with any affected families or commemorate the 100,000 dead further in any way. He takes this very seriously. Hes said before this is the hardest part of his presidency, said Kayleigh McEnany, his press secretary.

Other countries such as Spain, the UK, and Italy have set aside a national mourning period or period of silence to reckon with their nations dead, while Trump has yet to lead a similar moment of silence or give a speech specifically commemorating the victims.

If Trump lets the milestone pass without dedicating a whole event or speech to commemorating the dead, he will not be the only president to do so. Pandemics in America including AIDS and the Spanish flu of 1918, which killed 675,000 Americans have often received short shrift when it comes to national mourning.

But for as long as the office has existed, presidents have been called on to suspend politics and give meaning to loss, especially those stemming from tragedies that dominate news coverage.

A president is expected to bring some combination of hope, healing and help, said David Kusnet, a speechwriter for President Bill Clinton, to convey some sense that theres some larger meaning to this all.

In 1986, with TV footage of the Challenger explosion playing constantly to a nation reeling in shock, president Ronald Reagan delayed his State of the Union address and instead gave a short speech evoking the hope symbolized by seven astronauts boarding the space shuttle.

We will never forget them, nor the last time we saw them, this morning, as they prepared for their journey and waved goodbye and slipped the surly bonds of earth to touch the face of God, he said.

In 1995, Clinton traveled to Oklahoma City after the bombing of a federal building there killed 168 people, and promised that the country would stand with the victims families for as many tomorrows as it takes.

The dignity and emotional eloquence of that speech ended up helping boost Clintons popularity after Democrats took a beating in the 1994 midterm elections, a reminder that the mourner in chief role can come with potential benefits as well as pitfalls.

George W. Bush was widely praised for taking a bullhorn at Manhattans Ground Zero after 9/11 and ad-libbing when someone in the crowd of first responders yelled they couldnt hear him. I can hear you, Bush said, the rest of the world hears you. His popularity soared in the aftermath of the terrorist attack.

But later in his presidency, he was criticized for failing to respond quickly or empathetically enough to the disaster unfolding during Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, which killed nearly 2,000 people.

President Barack Obama came across as stoic and unemotional at times, but he consoled the nation with empathetic speeches again and again after the mass shootings that occurred while he was president. Valerie Jarrett, a close adviser, said that when she and Obama heard the news of the 2012 slaughter of first-graders and educators in Newtown, Conn., they immediately thought of their own children. Obama also wrote his remarks for the memorial service by hand, and spent hours meeting individually with families of the victims.

You have to be able to let your heart take you to that place in order to feel empathy. And then imagine what you would want said to you, Jarrett said.

One of the most lasting images of Obama as the mourner in chief came in Charleston, S.C., in 2015 when he sang Amazing Grace at the service for the Rev. Clementa C. Pinckney, who was among nine black churchgoers killed in that city by a white supremacist. It was something he only decided to do as he traveled to Charleston that day.

He thought it would be an opportunity for us to feel as one, Jarrett said. He knew that if he started to sing, everyone would join.

Trumps approach has been starkly different. Sometimes, when he does nod to the coronavirus tragedy, he has a way of bringing up his own political disputes and rivalries.

When meeting at the White House in April with people who had recovered from the disease, Trump steered the discussion to his own reelection. Representative Karen Whitsett, a Michigan Democrat, told the group she felt like she was going to die when she fell ill with COVID-19. Well, Im not going to speak for her, but I dont see her voting for Sleepy Joe Biden, Trump joked.

And while he sent condolences to family members of the dead on Twitter on Thursday I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy & love for everything that these great people stood for & represent, he wrote he also spent the days leading up to the milestone spreading a conspiracy theory about an MSNBC host, sharing a video of a man saying the only good Democrat is a dead Democrat, and boosting a post calling Hillary Clinton a skank.

For whatever reason, hes been unable to find his voice and to serve as the mourner-in-chief, people have been left to mourn on their own, said David Gergen, a former adviser to several presidents, including Reagan and Clinton.

A White House official who did not want to be named said Trump had shared many tender moments over his years in office, including his speech at Normandy to commemorate D-Day, personal interactions with veterans, and visits to factories.

But as a lifelong salesman who used to routinely exaggerate the height of his buildings and the extent of his wealth, the president is more comfortable making the rosy pitch, not providing a shoulder to cry on.

Tony Schwartz, who worked with Trump for two years in the 1980s while he ghost-wrote Trumps book The Art of the Deal, said the real estate developer did not show much capacity for empathy, contrition, or sorrow in his experience. I dont think grief was in his vocabulary, he said. I dont think hes ever felt any grief about anything.

That has led to a lost political opportunity for Trump, as well as a vacuum of federal leadership in a moment when Americans are struggling to comprehend the sheer loss of life. Trumps approval rating has sunk, even as many governors and other world leaders are seeing their constituents rally around them.

Its not surprising, given his entire presidency has been very divisive, but this was a big missed opportunity to potentially unite the country, and one of the ways you unite the country is through shared grief, said Alex Conant, a Republican strategist who worked on Senator Marco Rubios presidential campaign.

In contrast, former vice president Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee who is set to challenge Trump in the falls election and who often speaks of his personal grief, posted a somber two-and-a-half-minute video to Twitter on Wednesday to mark the grim milestone.

I think I know what youre feeling, said Biden, who has mourned his first wife and two of his children, and spoke at multiple memorials while he was vice president. You feel like youre being sucked into a black hole in the middle of your chest, suffocating, your heart is broken; theres nothing but a feeling of emptiness for you.

Jess Bidgood can be reached at Jess.Bidgood@globe.com. Follow her on Twitter @jessbidgood. Liz Goodwin can be reached at elizabeth.goodwin@globe.com. Follow her on Twitter @lizcgoodwin

Read the original:
Coronavirus death toll rises without a national remembrance or a consoler-in-chief in the White House - The Boston Globe