Fayette Friends of Animals will benefit from a bike ride on Saturday beginning in Connellsville in memory of Wanda and Dave Bigam.

The fifth annual Paint Room Bike Run will start with sign-ups at 10 a.m. at the Paint Room at 118 W. Apple St.

Sign-ups will continue until noon when the motorcycles, passenger cars and charter bus depart.

The cost per motorcycle is $25, and passengers and those in vehicles are $15 per person. A ride on the bus is $35, which includes registration. Those in vehicles and on the bus will follow the bikes on the run to each stop.

Organizers anticipate a large turnout.

This run is in memory of two very special people, said organizer Lisa Dolan.

Wanda Bigam and her brother-in-law Big Dave Bigam were previous owners of the Paint Room.

Dave Bigam recently passed away, Dolan said.

Wanda Bigam was an avid animal lover, said Dolan, explaining why the fundraiser benefits the Fayette Friends of Animals, a local no-kill shelter in Uniontown.

We feel that this organization is a very important part of our community, said Dolan.

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Fundraiser set to aid Fayette Friends of Animals

Significant innovations in paint during the past 20 years have led to fascinating interior and exterior applications.

Today, home owners can use paint to generate solar power, light up a hallway, waterproof a basement and even draw on the walls with no fear.

If youre thinking about painting your home, knowing whats new in paint technology may be helpful in deciding how to move forward with your next project. Here are just a few new and innovative products to keep in mind while you plan:

Keep it green with low- or no-VOC paint

Todays biggest trend is the increased availability of low- or no-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint choices. Just about every major paint manufacturer has at least one line now.

These paints protect consumers from a number of health issues associated with VOCs, and contributes to improved indoor environmental quality, which is one key goal of the green building and remodeling movement.

Paint that stays durable and clean

Driven by consumer demand, manufacturers of interior and exterior paints have developed paints that are easy to apply, durable and cinch to clean. One uses ceramic technology an infusion of ceramic microspheres into a high-quality acrylic resin to create a paint extremely resistant to stains and scuffs, and washes well without damage to quality or appearance over time.

User-friendly containers

Although they have not gained significant popularity due to the cost of production, plastic paint containers that feature twist-off lids, side handles, and easy-pour spouts give consumers a more convenient and less messy way to get the job done. These containers are usually pretty lightweight and easier to store than typical steel paint cans.

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Real Estate Corner -- Remodeling savvy Innovations in paint

ARA Homeowners renovate for two basic reasons: money and fun. Or, more precisely, they undertake home improvements to improve their home's resale value or their enjoyment of their house. The best home improvements, however, are ones that deliver on both objectives.

Americans will spend nearly $141 billion on remodeling in the first half of this year, according to Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies. If you'll be among the many homeowners opting to improve, rather than move, you may be wondering what renovations are likely to give you the best balance of enhanced resale value and immediate enjoyment.

Here are five home improvements - from budget-friendly to big budget - that provide noteworthy return on investment (ROI) in terms of increased value and improved enjoyment:

1. Skylights

You can lower your electric bill by installing skylights that will reduce dependency on artificial light and fill your home with natural light. You can obtain quality, energy-efficient, "No Leak Skylights" from Velux for around $800 per unit for a standard fixed skylight with flashing kit. You can find a local installer to provide a customized cost estimate at http://www.veluxusa.com. In terms of positive energy, the mental and physical health effects of exposure to natural light are well documented. They're also an effective privacy preserver for bathrooms where you might not want a wall window. Skylight and sun tunnels (skylights that use reflective tubes to bring sunlight into rooms without direct roof access) not only enhance the energy efficiency of your home, they just may make you feel better about living there.

2. Decks

Whether you go for wood or composite, adding a deck is a great way to boost resale value, expand your living space and up your enjoyment of your home environment. On average, homeowners who add a wood deck can expect to recoup more than 80 percent of its cost when it comes time to sell, according to Remodeling Magazine's 2009-2010 Cost vs. Value Report. Composite deck additions return about 71 percent at the time of resale.

3. Kitchens

It makes sense that the room where most families spend the bulk of their time would be a popular remodel - and one that pays off big in terms of value and comfort. Even a minor kitchen remodel - costing about $21,000 - will return about 78 percent of its value on resale, according to Remodeling Magazine. A major kitchen job, costing around $57,200, will recoup about $41,200, or 72 percent.

4. Baths

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Best home improvements for your renovation dollars for your renovation dollars

When I remodeled my house, I knew what I wanted: a bigger kitchen with room for two refrigerators, more family space and another bedroom. But there are dreams and then theres reality. My husband and I began wondering not only how much we could afford, but how much was wise to spend. So we called our real-estate agent and explained our plans, with hopes she could help us set a budget.

Fortunately, she was able to tell us how much more she could sell our home for with our new dream addition. So that became our budget. It was actually a fairly easy way to think about our return on investment (ROI). However, many homeowners mistakenly think the cost vs. value ratio hovers at one to one, and whatever they invest into the project will be instantly reflected in increased value. Not so fast.Even the most valuable remodeling projects dont completely recoup the cost, according to Remodeling Magazinesannual cost vs. value report . The project with the highest return on investment installing a steel door only recoups 97% of its cost. That wasnt always the case. In 2009, steel doors had an ROI of 125%. But in 2011, it fell to 73%.

From DailyWorth.com , heres the expected ROI on seven popular home projects:

Average national cost: $18,856

Return on investment: 82.7%

While any kitchen remodel will add some value to your home, less is more when it comes to ROI. If youre remodeling on a budget, focus on a few key areas: Replace dated appliances with more modern, stainless steel models; replace aging countertops with sturdier materials that you can afford; replace cabinet hardware (but leave the boxes in place); and apply a fresh coat of paint or add a new backsplash.

Average national cost: $54,909

Return on investment: 74.2%

Any real-estate agent will tell you to invest your time and money in the kitchen if you want to add value to your home. Why? Because kitchens make a big impressionand home buyers want them to be modern, functional and well-maintained. The average cost of a major kitchen remodel is high, but includes a complete guttingfrom cabinets to appliances to flooring and replacing them with modern midrange materials.

Be careful not to go too far with kitchen remodels. Unless youre living in a high-end, luxury home, you shouldnt have high-end, luxury appliances (like a top-of-the-line Sub-Zero fridge, for example) or personalized gadgetsthey wont matter to your targeted buyer or add value to your home.

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Slide Show: Are these 7 home remodeling projects worth the money?

I feel like Im in a different city, and This is the best thing going in Marshall, were just some of the comments owner Joshua Awbrey heard after the grand re-opening and the complete remodeling of Anytime Fitness.

The re-model took two weeks to complete and during that time absolutely no gym member could use the 24-hour fitness haven.

They love it, Awbrey said. No one can say they dont like it when its new like this. Weve been getting great feedback.

As a part of their corporate office, the gym must have a remodeling around every five years to keep them up to date.

Though its keeping some of the same equipment, Awbrey said they will be adding new pieces and trading in some others.

Were adding some more pieces. It takes eight to 10 weeks because (manufacturers) have to build them, so well have four new pieces coming in and were getting rid of some and trading some out, he said.

Some of the new features added include a multipurpose room where members can choose a workout video to follow along with and work out with others. Awbrey said his goals for the gym was to increase membership to 1,300, increase revenue in the training department and add a female trainer.

Awbrey described the previous model of the gym as dark and dungeony, but said the new remodeling has completely changed everything that gym members know about Anytime Fitness.

The whole thing is my favorite, he said when asked what his favorite part about the remodeling was. The old model was dark and kind of dungeony with black ceilings. Its bright now its just changed the whole perception of the gym.

We want everyone whos been old members or havent worked out in a while to come and check it out if they havent been here since and be awestruck.

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Anytime Fitness opens after remodeling

The contemporary bar in the new entertainment area is made of horizontal bamboo and a slab of vanilla onyx.

When most people think of a man cave, they imagine a space set apart from the central living area in the home, with traditionally very masculine dcor and entertainment elements like projection televisions, leather recliner seating and built-in kegerators. These spaces are usually away from the homes central living area, in a garage or spare room or basement. With Fathers Day this weekend, its the perfect time to showcase a San Diego remodel that illustrates a new trend: foregoing the traditional man cave for a stylish, multiuse entertaining space the whole family can enjoy.

A large game room features a pool table.

In a recent project for a young professional couple, our team was tasked with creating a new entertaining space with the key elements being a contemporary bar and a large adjacent game room. Located on the homes extremely segmented bottom level, our team first opened up the space by removing a wall and changing the layout. By positioning the bar adjacent to the game room, the space now has a more natural flow.

We also used cork tile walls in the game room, which present an intriguing texture and are sound absorbent, ideal for when multiple activities are under way.

The focal point of the new space is the new contemporary bar area. We used a mix of sophisticated materials to exemplify the uncommon. Two-thirds of the bar is horizontal bamboo; one-third is a sumptuous vanilla onyx slab. We chose Italian light fixtures with red-orange hues and used a light bar underneath the countertop to bring it to life. Designed for entertaining, the bar area features essentials like a beer tap, wine cooler, sink and generously sized refrigerator.

The remodeled space is large enough to accommodate large parties.

Exquisite materials draw attention at every turn. A window from the original home, transformed into a recessed storage area with rounded glass for liquor and accessories, is framed by gleaming metallic tiles in bronze and copper. LED recessed lighting glows upon the richly colored marble countertop, setting the mood for warmth and good cheer.

Next to the bar sits a new stone fireplace and built-in television. The expansive new layout can accommodate large parties yet is designed with well-defined gathering areas to enhance more intimate gatherings as well. The new space acts as a magnet for guests and expresses the homeowners affinity for sophisticated design and sensational entertaining at home.

Todd Jackson is the CEO of Jackson Design and Remodeling. He can be reached at (619) 442-6125, info@jacksondesignandremodeling.com, or http://www.jacksondesignandremodeling.com

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Family fun evolves from man cave

DIY Room remodeling decorating ideas
DIY Room remodeling decorating ideas.

By: Fadil Rama

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DIY Room remodeling decorating ideas - Video

AFTER: Removing a wall that separated the more formal living room from the less formal family room provided more natural light in both spaces and a more usable space for entertaining.

Trina Knudsen

Last week, we talked about the move-versus-remodel debate. That is the first decision you have to make when you accept your house isn't working for you and you need a change. If you decide to stay put and that remodeling is the way to go, the next phase of the design process is programming.

Programming is determining what you will need to make your house function so it can support your life and family goals.

Every room in your house should be used at least once a day for something useful. Having square feet in your home that sit idle day after day is wasteful. Why heat, cool, clean and pay taxes on space that isnt contributing to you or your family?

Many clients feel they need more space, so the first thing they think of is an addition when, many times, they are not using the space they already have to its full potential. Therefore, remodeling by repurposing existing space can accomplish the same functional goal as an addition but with less cost and disruption.

Another option, less drastic than a full-blown addition, is a small bump-out in a strategic place. For instance, your kitchen may not have enough width to add that island you want, or your master bath shower may be the size of a postage stamp, so a few feet could make all the difference. Pushing the exterior wall out two feet can open up a range of possibilities that could solve all kinds of issues.

How do you decide if you need a significant addition, an interior remodel or something in between? Talk to an architect! Analyzing your house and how you use it is key to the conversation you will have when you sit down with an architect in the beginning phase of your project.

Besides discussing how you currently use your house and what problems you are encountering, you should consider hopes and dreams. Do you wish you could entertain but dont feel comfortable having people over to your house? Do you want to be able to have Grandma and Grandpa come stay during the holidays, but don't have a guest room available for them? How would your lifestyle be different if your house were different? What kinds of things would you like to do if your house werent holding you back? A well-designed remodel can actually help you live better on a daily basis.

A good design should focus on the end user. At our office, we call it life-centered design. How are you actually going to live in this space? How will you use it every day? The plan should be designed with your lifestyle in mind.

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Renovation Solutions: Plan your home remodels with your life in mind

Sparkling new kitchens and spa-like master bathrooms still sell homes, but homeowners looking for the best return on investment should more often consider minor updates that wont break the bank, real estate experts say.

Remodeling projects can be daunting, but homeowners who set a budget, define their goals and come up with projects that stretch their dollar the farthest will come out on top.

Realtors say they encourage homeowners to undertake major remodeling projects only for personal enjoyment because often the biggest and best improvements dont have a dollar-for-dollar return, especially in the short-term.

The rule I always tell my clients and my sellers is never put a nickel in unless you will get a dime back, said Gary Dominguez, a Lincoln, Neb., real estate agent with HOME Real Estate who spent 25 years in the remodeling business.

John Bredemeyer, president and founder of Realcorp Inc., an appraisal firm in Omaha, Neb., said the best remodeling projects before selling a home are high-impact but with a relatively low cost. A new kitchen could cost $25,000 or more, but new countertops could be installed for $5,000 or less. New carpet and paint are also good projects to consider, he said.

The simple things, go ahead and do, Bredemeyer said. (With) the bigger remodels, the thing you need to think about is how long you are going to be in the house.

Completed remodeling projects dont always translate into a higher resale price, because home appraisals also take into account the value of other homes in the neighborhood, he said.

Bredemeyers daughter, Abby Andress, followed her dads advice before she and her husband put their three-bedroom, 1978 split-entry southwest Omaha home on the market last year.

They painted their kitchen cabinets off-white, added a cement finish to the bathroom countertops, cleaned the carpets and rebuilt the deck.

It made it look newer, said Andress, 30.

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Sellers should consider 'bang for the buck' in remodeling plans

Manhattan Beach, CA (PRWEB) June 11, 2014

Three innovative ideas are what led to Bill Simone, President of Custom Design & Construction, being named the 2014 Fred Case Remodeling Entrepreneur of the Year. The award is one of the remodeling industrys highest honor.

A panel of judges from Case Design/Remodeling, Inc., Hanley-Wood and Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies chose Simone as this year's winner. The judging was based on four principal criteria: business acumen, financial strength, community and industry involvement, and entrepreneurial spirit.

The judges were impressed with Custom Design & Constructions three innovative areas: its offering of design and construction under one company, genuine in-house financing, and a 2,500 sq. ft. Design Center where homeowners can get inspired, explore possibilities and make selections.

"Bill represents not only entrepreneurial thinking, but also entrepreneurial action, which is more important today than ever," remarked Case President Bruce Case. "His forward thinking in offering design and construction all under one roof has allowed him to differentiate himself from others in his market. Offering a one-source solution for residential remodeling in the Los Angeles area is rare," adds Case.

Fred Case, Chairman, CEO and founder of Case, is also very impressed with Simones professionalism, drive and passion. "His creativity, coupled with his ability to adapt to the marketplace, are what makes him such an admirable member of the remodeling community," Fred Case says.

Im honored and humbled by this award," says Bill Simone. We never set out to win the Entrepreneur of the Year award, we simply listened to the Southern California market and created a residential remodeling company that serves it better than others," adds Simone.

About the Fred Case Remodeling Entrepreneur of the Year Award The Fred Case Remodeling Entrepreneur of the Year Award is modeled after the professional achievements of Fred Case, founder and CEO of Case Design/Remodeling, Inc. Fred is credited with pioneering the design/build concept in remodeling in the 1970s and was also instrumental in developing the first certification system for remodelers while chairing the National Education Committee of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Among many other honors, Fred won the first NARI "Contractor of the Year Award" in 1976, and was recognized in 1984 with NARI's Harold Hammerman "Spirit of Education" Award for excellence in education and training. In 1999, he became the first-ever recipient of Remodeling magazine's Foundation Award for Lifetime Achievement, and was inducted into NAHB's Remodeler's National Hall of Fame in 2002. Most recently, Fred was named the first Master Certified Remodeler by NARI.

About Custom Design & Construction Founded in 1986, Custom Design & Construction is a full service residential design build firm serving Manhattan Beach, Playa Del Rey, Marina del Rey, Redondo Beach, Torrance, Hermosa Beach, Hawthorne, Palos Verdes, El Segundo, and the entire South Bay. The company specializes in whole house remodels, kitchens, bathrooms, room additions and new construction. They have a 2,500 sq. ft. Design Center located at 2001 E. Mariposa Ave. in El Segundo. Their projects have been featured in Time magazine, the Los Angeles Times, Womens Day, Smart Money, and many industry publications. Several have won national awards including the prestigious Chrysalis Project of the Year, Kitchen of the Year, Bathroom of the Year, as well as numerous others. They have been named Chrysalis Remodeler of the Year, and are a three-time winner of California Remodeler of the Year, nine-time Qualified Remodeler Top 500 recipient, and Remodeling magazine Big 50 member.

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Local Manhattan Beach Resident Bill Simone Named Remodeling Entrepreneur of the Year