15 March 2012 Last updated at 10:38 ET

A historic lifeboat which has been lying derelict in Conwy harbour is to return home to Norfolk for restoration.

The Edward Birkbeck was built around 1896, and was the lifeboat at Winterton-on-Sea until 1925.

Detective work by Conwy's harbourmaster has led to it heading home to East Anglia, where it was the village lifeboat until 1925, making 94 rescues.

The vessel was being loaded onto a lorry to be transported overland on Thursday.

The village church in Winterton-on-Sea has a plaque in the Fisherman's Corner recording the lifeboat's many live-saving successes.

The old Norfolk family names of the original crews are still well known locally and a team of volunteers are ready to help restore the vessel.

The Edward Birkbeck is set for eventual display as part of the village's maritime heritage.

The vessel had faced being broken up for scrap after Conwy's acting harbourmaster Barry Tuson issued a notice in November 2011 that he considered it abandoned and causing an obstruction.

But after learning of its former links to Winterton-on-Sea, he contacted the parish council there to let the village know of its existence.

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Historic lifeboat returned home

GRAND RAPIDS Walking through the Meyer May House with Site Manager Don Dekker, Steelcase eases gently into his story.

Just as the homes architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, challenged the world of architecture and design to explore how they designed houses, Steelcase challenges the business world to re-examine and explore how they design the workplace, Dekker explains.

But visitors would be hard-pressed to find the Steelcase name or logo anywhere in the Meyer May house. Its only found on a historic plaque outside the house and on a small plaque near the entrance.

Its part of Steelcases philosophy of quiet competence, says Dekker, who retired from Steelcase after 37 years and is now the homes site manager and head docent.

After all, the low-slung house at 450 Madison Ave. SE has a story of its own. It was built in 1909, before Steelcases forerunner, the Metal Office Furniture Co., was founded in 1911.

Do you have a Steelcase story? Do you or a family member have a special memory of working for the company? We would love to have you share your story with us. Send us your memory and email it to us at grbusiness@mlive.com with the subject line, Steelcase memory.

Department store owner Meyer May commissioned Wright to build a modern home for himself and his bride to reflect his elegant lifestyle and his 5-foot-4-inch height. Wright designed the homes furniture, windows and ceilings to Mays personal scale in his trademark Prairie style.

But the house didnt remain a Wright masterpiece for long. The tragic death of Mays wife, a new wife who didnt like Wrights furniture, an addition for her children and subsequent owners who divided the house up into three rental units had left the house in poor repair by the mid-1980s.

RELATED: More coverage of Steelcase's 100th anniversary

Thats when Steelcase stepped in. By then the worlds leading office furniture manufacturer, Steelcase wanted to make a design statement and Wright fit the bill perfectly.

Continue reading here:
Why Steelcase has long link to legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright (Steelcase at 100)

According to Atlantic radio station, KJAN, The Vision Iowa Board, Wednesday, awarded $134,642 in grants to the restoration of the Johnny Carson Birthplace home and a trail project in Des Moines.

The grants were approved by the Vision Iowa Board at their meeting in Des Moines. In Corning, a $21,100 Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) grant fund was awarded to the Johnny Carson Birthplace Home Restoration Project, which is expected to cost $139,100.

The grant award, which is the exact amount requested by the restoration group, is contingent upon completion of fundraising within 30 days. The project includes the full restoration of Johnny Carsons birthplace home. When completed, the home will be permanently maintained as a 1925 period home with memorabilia of Carsons life and career.

The Vision Iowa Program provides financial incentives to communities for the construction of recreational, cultural, educational or entertainment facilities that enhance the quality of life in Iowa.

Currently, 353 CAT awards have been granted by the board, amounting to more than $132.9-million.

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Grant Awarded To Restore Johnny Carson Birthplace

A group of concerned Buckhannon residents is trying to save a downtown structure that dates back to the end of the Civil War.

The Latham House, built around 1866, once was the home of Col. George Robert Latham. It soon will receive new siding, as Create Buckhannon and the city are searching for private and public funds to restore the home.

Latham helped lead the 2nd West Virginia Infantry in the War Between the States. In 1864, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, a post he held until 1867. Latham served as a consul at Melbourne, Australia, before returning home to be the Upshur County school superintendent. He died in 1917, and is buried in the Heavner Cemetery in Buckhannon.

"The Latham House is central to a complete downtown revitalization program and will be a focal point for community organization and activity," the Upshur County Commission stated in a recent letter of support for the project.

Bryson VanNostrand, architect for the project, said the foundation has been replaced and stabilized. New stones were installed in the work.

"That was absolutely essential," he said.

Over time, the building on Madison Street had settled about 5 inches, and it has been brought back to level by using jacks. The building also sits in a floodplain, and VanNostrand said the next step will be obtaining approval from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to make the structure flood-proof.

"It's something that's not done very often," he said.

The plan would be to reinforce the concrete walls to a point above the floodplain, he said.

Long-term plans call for the Latham House to become the permanent home of the Buckhannon-Upshur Chamber of Commerce and possibly the Upshur County Convention and Visitors Bureau. There is a plan to construct a small addition to the back of the property in a way that would not overpower the historical look of the current building.

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Historic Latham House to undergo restoration

CORTE MADERA, Calif., March 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --Restoration Hardware announced today the release of three entirely new publications for Spring 2012-- a Home Source Book, Outdoor Source Book, and a special edition of Big Style/small spaces-- at 992 pages it represents the largest collection in the company's history. The Home Book's opening letter from Chairman and Co-CEO Gary Friedman speaks to the brand's evolution to date-- Paying homage to Steve Jobs' legacy of following one's heart and intuition in the quest for innovation, this philosophy similarly guides Restoration Hardware and drives its creative process. "These pages are filled with examples of our vision to create an inspiring and irreverent style movement," says Friedman. "Our new collection consists of new pieces that have been carefully curated, reimagined and composed to push the established boundaries and stimulate ideas of a new and evolving way to furnish our homes."

A first-of-its-kind hybrid of catalog, magazine, and inspiration file, the three publications are filled with new ideas and fresh perspectives on designing, evolving and defining a home. Like paging through a curated photo album, evocative vignettes showcase lifestyle compositions of the brand's newest collections. Original editorial profiles by independent journalists and celebrated photographers tell the stories of international artisans who bring unparalleled passion and artistry to their latest creations.

In an article entitled "A Family Affair: The Legacy of Van Thiel," two generations of the legendary Belgian antiques family reveal the inner workings of the Deconstructed Collection. Designed exclusively for Restoration Hardware, the collection consists of 16 exacting reproductions featuring distressed walnut frames, exposed hardware, and rich burlap and antiqued cotton upholstery secured with tailor's tacks. Uniquely one of a kind, these elegant statement pieces embody timeless design.

A special 52-page edition launches Big Style/small spaces, introducing a comprehensive re-imagining of the brand's collections in scaled-down form. A range of environments spanning the globe-- from a Parisian pied-a-terre to a New York loft-- showcase curated pieces well suited for more intimate spaces.

The House of Blues features furniture and linens in a color spectrum that begins with a deep indigo-- a timeless hue prized by ancient civilizations-- transcending to a French blue, and ending with a weathered, soft washed blue, showcased in the new Vintage-Washed Chambray Bedding. Calming, restorative and regal, indigo's many hues have been translated into classic accents for the home.

Additional articles include "From Russia With Love," showcasing the artistry of designer Theo Eichholtz and the creation of his one-of-a-kind Russian Oak Dining Tables. Aged by rain, wind and the elements-- everything that gives the collection its rich and authentic look-- the tables are handcrafted from reclaimed, century-old barn planks direct from Eastern Europe. "The Re-Imaginists" invite you into the imaginative world of Mark Sage and Rudi Nijssen, whose Baroque Wood Crystal Chandeliers are rustic reinterpretations of the classic fixture, dripping with hand-turned wooden "crystals" and beads. "The Italian Job," third-generation artisan Carlo Bertelli reveals the craftsmanship behind his legendary Italian bedding. And the piece entitled, "If You Build It..." offers an insider's perspective into the step-by-step process of creating the company's own field of dreams. The 25,000-square-foot Houston Gallery features special spaces dedicated to sensory experiences, including a Bellocq Tea Atelier, a Fresh Floral Boutique, an International Design Bibliotheque and a 7,000-square-foot Rooftop Garden and Conservatory, showcasing the outdoor collection amidst Mission olive trees and trickling fountains.

The 284-page Outdoor Source Book introduces the launch of 24 exclusive furniture collections and the option of "Customization." The comprehensive program offers customers a choice of four metal finishes, all-weather wicker in four variegated colors, two teak stains and 54 Perennials or Sunbrella fabric options for pillows, cushions, drapery and umbrellas.

The Spring 2012 Source Books are available digitally and via the Restoration Hardware iPad App now. The publications are intended to be a timeless source of inspiration-- with a shelf life to match.

About Restoration HardwareRestoration Hardware is a luxury brand in the home furnishings marketplace, offering product assortments across a number of categories, including furniture, lighting, textiles, bathware, decor, outdoor and garden, as well as baby and child products. Restoration Hardware operates an integrated business across multiple channels of distribution including galleries, catalogs and websites.

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Restoration Hardware Unveils Spring 2012 Design Source Books

LOS ANGELES, March 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Approximately 80 million Americanmen and women experience some form of hair loss.Premature balding or thinning hair can often result in a decrease of self esteem.Freedom Laser Therapy of Los Angeles is dedicated to change all that by bringing their iRestore Hair Rejuvenation System to the mass market.

To view the multimedia assets, please click: http://www.multivu.com/mnr/54394-freedom-laser-therapy-laser-hair-treatment-regrowth-restoration

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120313/MM66813 )

For the past decade, Freedom Laser Therapy has become an industry leader helping smokers successfully break their nicotine addictions using low-level lasers. With a decade of using lasers in his Freedom quit smoking clinic, company President Craig Nabat discovered that the low-level laser therapy technology which helped him break his nicotine addiction also promotes thicker hair, and decreases the progression of hair loss.

Professional laser hair therapy clinics have been charging hair loss clients approximately $4,000 for 12 months of treatments. Another available option on the market has been an FDA cleared personal use laser brush device ranging from models equipped with 7 to 12 lasers. While these laser brushes only cost between $295 and $545, many users have declared that the brush device can be exhausting to use.

Once Craig learned about the laser hair therapy technology, he and his engineering team dedicated 3 years to inventing a more effective and user friendly laser treatment device for treating hair loss. Freedom Laser Therapy has just announced the release of their revolutionary invention, the iRestore Hair Rejuvenation System, which is now available for $599. Fortunately, males and females experiencing early to moderate stages of hair loss can now own the same strength laser hair restoration technology used in professional hair loss clinics, and perform the treatment process now in the privacy of their own homes.

This proven, safe Laser Hair Restoration Technology,otherwise known as phototherapy, is a scientific process providing stimulation to cells in your hair. The 25-year old advanced low-level laser treatment stimulates the scalp, allowing miniaturized and dormant hair follicles to rejuvenate.

iRestore is a hands freedevice and is worn 3 times weekly for 30 minutes on non-consecutive days. iRestore's (27) 650nm lasers and (27) high output LEDs are equipped with separation barrels, which part obstructing hair for direct access to the user's scalp. The common hair loss areas are treatedwith focusedlight energy for10 minutes eachon the front, middle, and back of the scalp. Users can experience fuller, thicker and healthier hair within 90 days; ongoing treatments are required for lasting results.

Dr. Brett Bolton discusses how lasers assist in bringing dormant hair follicles back to life with the usage of laser hair therapy.

"Laser Hair Therapy, which is the most recent FDA approved preventive treatment that is out there, is a light source and that light source will stimulate blood flow, and it will free up the sebum and make a better environment for those little hairs to make their way through. So those little hairs that are potentially getting caught and shrunk and miniaturized are now strengthened. We are not growing new hair, we are helping bringing back your miniaturized hairs."

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Hair Loss and Self-Esteem Restored with New Home Use Laser Treatment Device

WEIRTON - The Tri-State Home and Garden Show is fast approaching.

The annual event will take place Friday through Sunday at the Serbian-American Cultural Center. It is being presented through a joint effort by the Weirton Area and Jefferson County chambers of commerce, and coordinated by Beyond Marketing.

Major sponsors for the show this year include Weirton Medical Center, Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration and DeNoon Lumber.

The show is free and open to the public, with doors open from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

The two chambers of commerce will hold a joint Business After Hours, open only to chamber members, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday.

Weirton Medical Center is returning as a sponsor for the long-running area event.

The local hospital will offer free blood pressure checks, along with health information and giveaways. Representatives of the medical center will be on hand to answer questions from area residents.

"We're pleased that the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce host the Home and Garden Show each year," said Kevin Brown, director of communications for Weirton Medical. "It always draws a big crowd and gives local businesses the chance to showcase their products and services.

"For Weirton Medical Center, the show is a great opportunity to be in front of the public with important health information as well as information about Weirton Medical Center's programs and services," Brown said. "We hope the public comes out again this year to see the different vendors and experience the show."

Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration was founded in 1977 by Robert Contraguerro Sr. Through the years, the company has grown and worked on projects in more than 15 states, including taking part in hurricane relief up and down the East Coast.

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Home and Garden Show fast approaching

11 March 2012 Last updated at 05:28 ET

Chatsworth House in Derbyshire has opened for the new season following a 14m restoration project.

Scaffolding has been removed from the 300-year-old property - home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire - after 12 months of work.

The stonework, carvings and 24-carat gold gilding have been repaired and cleaned on the south and west fronts.

Further work will be carried out to clean the East front over the next few years.

The project follows the refurbishment of the interior in 2010, and is the most extensive work on the house since it was remodelled by the 6th Duke in the 1830s.

The Duke of Devonshire said: "It's absolutely wonderful to see the house as it must have looked to my ancestors.

"It has always been a thrilling moment to see the house come into view as you drive across the park and now that view has been made even more magical.

"With the years of blackened grime now removed from the stone, it looks truly magnificent and I'm delighted that it has been preserved for many future generations of visitors to enjoy."

Chatsworth's head of special projects, Sean Doxey, said: "Although the building was in reasonably good condition, it would have started to deteriorate very quickly if we hadn't stepped in now to repair the worst ravages caused by the weather."

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Chatsworth open after restoration

Water lines break. Sewers back up. Sump pumps fail. Fires happen.

For some, these problems are colossal headaches.

For the folks at Certified Restoration in Huron, this is a good day at the office.

The company opened its Cleveland Road location this week, with a mission to help homeowners battle the nightmarish disasters that can strike at any hour.

Other than family, the home is the next closest to your heart, said Jim Mazza, the companys water damage restoration technician and director of business development.

Certified Restoration, owned and operated by Larry Fawcett, has been months in the making.

The company specializes in minimizing damage to homes by quickly removing water or sewage, and killing microbes that cause odor and deterioration. The workers also clean up fire damage and help homeowners tackle stubborn mold problems.

Given that crisis can strike at any time, Certified Restoration has an answering service that fields call at any time, day and night.

The companys employees have certifications through various national industry organizations, such as the Indoor Air Quality Association or Clean Trust.

For his part, Fawcett has a number of certifications and credentials hes a council-certified residential mold inspector, an indoor environmental professional and a certified water damage restoration technician.

Originally posted here:
New Business: Certified Restoration

Posted: Thursday, March 8, 2012 8:04 pm | Updated: 7:58 pm, Thu Mar 8, 2012.

A new tenant who signed a 15-year lease for a 600,000-square-foot building in Principio Business Park in December is moving ahead with plans to construct an additional 595,000-square-foot building to add on to the existing building.

Restoration Hardware had already received its occupancy permit for 4000 Principio Parkway East when its landlord, Weeks Robinson, requested and was granted a fast-track permit process from Cecil County Commissioners Feb. 21.

The total cost of the project, including interior fit-out, is estimated at $23.7 million and will create 1.2 million square feet of distribution/warehouse space for the luxury home furnishings dealer.

It will be their East Coast distribution center, Roy Clough, deputy director of Cecil County Economic Development, told commissioners during the fast-track request presentation.

They hope to create jobs for about 150 to 165 people, Clough said. And they want to start construction in April and occupy the new building by August 31.

Anticipated hourly wages are $12.

The existing building already occupied by Restoration Hardware was constructed about four years ago, but never leased.

Clough said the county had several prospects for the building, which they commonly referred to as the Trade Center 95, but activity picked up after the building was sold last summer to Atlanta-based Weeks Robinson Properties.

They recently sent us a rendering of the new building which includes an attractive courtyard, Clough said Wednesday as he distributed copies to members of the County Economic Development Commission.

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Restoration Hardware moves ahead with expansion