Following recent public health guidelines set in place by the CDC and mandated by Governor J.B. Pritzker, Adventure Stage Chicago (ASC) has canceled its Chicago premiere of Idris Goodwin's Ghost. The production had been scheduled to play from April 25 to May 3 at the Vittum Theater.

Current ticket holders for Ghost will automatically receive a credit for ASC's next season. The theater is also accepting donations of $12, the price of a youth ticket, online HERE on the Northwestern Settlement site (select Adventure Stage Chicago as the designation for donations). For more information, call the ASC box office at 773-342-4141 or email boxoffice@adventurestage.org.

"This has been a turbulent year for us," says ASC Producing Artistic Director Tom Arvetis. "The theater has been greatly affected by the CPS strike, a sprinkler system malfunction, and now, an ongoing pandemic. As always, our greatest concern is for our neighbors and students, for whom our organization exists. But we also must recognize our artists, actors, designers and staff who will be greatly affected by this outcome. Having to suspend production is devastating. Our season theme this year is Shelter; ASC has always strived to be a place of Shelter for our community, not only as a place to gather but also through the stories we share. To close our doors now during such uncertainty goes against our nature, but we know it is the right thing to do. Please do what you can to remain healthy and look out for each other. The only way we get through this is together. When we do, Adventure Stage will be here to shelter you again."

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Adventure Stage Chicago Cancels Chicago Premiere of GHOST Due to the Current Health Crisis - Broadway World

Los Angeles will be on a form of lockdown its never seen in modern times amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Our decisions will determine the fate of our loved ones, the length of this crisis, Mayor Eric Garcetti said in announcing the restrictions Sunday. We need to take these steps to protect our city right now. The work we do now will have an impact on the citys history. We need to do everything now to stop the spread of this virus.

The restrictions are to last through March 31.

Here is what you need to know:

Source: City of Los Angeles

All Los Angeles Unified School District campuses -- and many other around the region -- are closed.

Los Angeles school officials were racing Sunday to organize the complex logistics of opening 20 meal pickup sites and 40 family resource centers to serve students who will be displaced from campuses beginning Monday in an unprecedented shutdown to limit the spread of the coronavirus.

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The food distribution sites and resource centers are widely seen as vital in a school system where 80% of students are from low-income households and 18,000 are homeless. The centers, scheduled to open on Wednesday, are intended as a stopgap to offer food, child-care, counseling, health screening and educational activities in a system of nearly 900 campuses.

As of 4 p.m. Monday, some municipal services are closed, and other are running with restrictions.

Recreation and parks

This agency, among the hardest hit, has closed 147 recreation centers, 28 senior centers and dozens of swimming pools. Griffith Observatory, Travel Town in Griffith Park, the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro and the Sherman Oaks Castle also have been shut down.

Golfers may continue playing at the citys 12 municipal golf courses, where workers are installing six-foot barriers to minimize contact."Golfers are now allowed to ride alone in carts without a penalty, said agency spokeswoman Ashley Rodriguez.

Park bathrooms are open during regular operating hours, which vary from park to park. Most parks are open from dawn to dusk, Rodriguez said.

Many senior centers will offer take-out meal service, but locations are still being finalized. The agency will work with the Department of Aging to distribute meals to older adults between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. each day this week. Older adults may pick up their meal or assign someone to pick it up on their behalf, Rodriguez said.

Water and power

The Department of Water and Power has suspended utility shut-offs for nonpayment, said DWP spokesman Joe Ramallo. We also continue to offer generous repayment plans that can be setup online, Ramallo said.

Housing Authority

The Housing Authority of the city of Los Angeles, which runs public housing and issues housing vouchers, has closed its public lobby but is continuing to accept documents through a drop box, its President and Chief Executive Doug Guthrie said.

Guthrie said the agency will continue to fulfill its responsibilities to people who have vouchers issued and are trying to lease up a unit.

The agency is also limiting its inspections to emergency matters, limiting its work orders at public housing sites to urgent issues, and closing the doors of its property management offices.

Fire Department

Firefighters, paramedics and 911 operators continue to respond to emergencies. Although the departments City Hall offices are closed to the public, the agency is providing some over-the-counter services -- such as reviews of sprinkler systems for new buildings -- in its offices on Figueroa Street.

We are using social distancing to reduce the number of individuals our inspectors come into contact with at inspection locations and at our public counter, said LAFD spokesman Peter Sanders.

Inspections of high-risk buildings are continuing as scheduled. But routine nonessential inspections have been postponed a week. In addition, fire stations have been closed to the public, so no school tours, youth programs or meetings in the stations community rooms.

Housing department

The Housing and Community Investment Department has closed its public counters, but people can still call 866-557- RENT or 866-557-7368 or submit questions to hcidla.lacity.org/ask-hcidla.

The department has also suspended its Systematic Code Enforcement Program inspections at apartment buildings -- routine inspections that are not triggered by a complaint. It will continue to send out inspectors for safety violations.

Libraries

Los Angeles public libraries will be closed through the end of March. Readers can still access digital services such as e-books and digital subscriptions at lapl.org. Librarians are also providing assistance by phone or through Ask A Librarian and Book A Librarian. No late fines are being charged and due dates are being automatically extended.

Sanitation

Sanitation crews equipped with face masks, gloves and protective suits are still doing cleanups of homeless encampments. (In rainy weather, however, such cleanings are more limited than usual.) The department is also working to distribute additional sanitation stations with sinks, showers and toilets across the city, according to spokeswoman Elena Stern.

The department has suspended a number of workshops and events, including composting and home gardening workshops and tours of its water reclamation plants.

Special events

StreetsLA is reviewing permits and applications for special events to decide if they should continue or be approved. People can still apply for permits, but the department is controlling the number of people at its public counters to maintain social distancing.

Street lighting

The Bureau of Street Lighting has closed its public counters and is issuing permits online. Street lights are still being repaired as usual.

Building and Safety

The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety is still operating and providing permits, checking plans and inspecting buildings, but it is limiting how many members of the public can be on each floor of its offices at a time. That will likely cause delays for customers, its spokesman Jeff Napier said. It has also canceled meetings of the Board of Building and Safety Commissioners.

Finance

Public counters for the Office of Finance are open in Van Nuys and West Los Angeles, but not at City Hall, according to city Treasurer Claire Bartels. People can also access online services or call by phone.

Cannabis regulation

The Department of Cannabis Regulation has closed its public counter where people can walk in to ask questions, but employees are still available to answer questions by phone. The cannabis department has also postponed a planned workshop on public health inspections and canceled a Cannabis Regulation Commission meeting.

Gov. Gavin Newsom called on the elderly to remain at home, and his request also extended to residents with underlying health issues, such as blood disorders, chronic kidney disease, asthma, chronic liver disease, compromised immune systems, pregnancies in the last two weeks, metabolic disorders, heart disease and other conditions that make them more susceptible to serious illness from the coronavirus.

He also urged family members to take care around the elderly and frail: People should conduct themselves around their grandparents as if they have it.

Garcetti announced the city would put a moratorium on residential evictions, aiming to protect people whose wages will be diminished or lost by coronavirus-related work stoppages. He said he has asked City Atty. Mike Feuer to look into whether Los Angeles can legally help prevent commercial evictions as well.

See the article here:
Coronavirus lockdown in LA: what's open and closed? - Los Angeles Times

Here it is, you'll believe me when you come check out this In Town Acreage on hard surface road!! This home sits on 9.15 wooded acres with great frontage on Memorial Drive and is located near Stone State park. The wildlife in this area is just one of the many reasons you will want to scoop this property up before it's gone. Tender love & care has been given to this home for many years. Front court yard is a peaceful and inviting entrance and the oversized 3 car attached garage is a huge bonus!! The entry foyer opens to the living room, with new carpet 3/19. Main floor family room also has new carpet 3/19. Family room, dining room and kitchen are all open to each other. The Kitchen is perfect size with white cabinets, new granite counters 5/19, new sink overlooking the backyard, engineered wood flooring, island, breakfast bar, lots of cabinets and 2 pantries. Off the dining room is 16 x 20 sunroom, which steps down to the 20x20 deck overlooking the gardens and a nature lovers dream backyard!! Water feature and wide array of perennial plants bring a park like feel to this lovely space. Moving back inside there are two bedrooms and full bath down the hall, and the master suite as well with newer carpet, WIC, 3/4 bath, and sliders to 8 x 8 wood deck. Lower level is great for entertaining. L shaped family room with wet bar & space for a pool table and other entertainment. 4th bedroom with 2 closets and 3/4 bath and laundry down. Lower level has storage room, safe room (5x10) and large pantry area (8x9). New water heater 2019. Cedar siding and new shingles 2017 and gutter guards. Outbuilding is 24 x 66, previously used as horse barn, has concrete floor, and a overhead garage door to store the lawn equipment, tractors, & toys galore!! Great pasture areas & property is close to Stone State Park with equestrian trails. Bring the horses and enjoy acreage living. The main yard has lots of flowers which will be waking up this spring. Oversized garage is heated and has 220..

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Homes Recently Listed in the Sioux City Area - Sioux City Journal

This press release was orginally distributed by SBWire

Bordentown, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/18/2020 -- As Bucks County's leading residential water well service, Paramount Well Service has helped countless families install and maintain irrigation wells. Irrigation wells are used to supply water to residential irrigation systems, which utilize a series of sprinklers and underground tubes to efficiently dispense water for lawns and gardens. In a recent blog post, Paramount Well Service outlined three major benefits of installing residential irrigation systems saving time and money, healthier plant growth, and reduced water waste.

Homeowners can save significant amounts of time and money by installing residential irrigation systems. Instead of manually setting up, turning on, turning off, and putting away traditional garden hose sprinklers each time watering is needed, irrigation systems allow the property owner to pre-determine when and where water is needed. An automated sprinkler system will eliminate the need to be physically present for watering, in addition to radically reducing waste that results from overwatering.

Reducing wasted water isn't just a cost-saving benefit it also benefits plant growth and the environment as a whole. When plants are overwatered, which often happens when sprinklers or hoses are used manually, the runoff carries vital nutrients away from the roots of plants. This deprives plants of their natural food. As far as the environment as a whole goes, conserving water wherever possible is a great way for homeowners to reduce their ecological footprint.

Homeowners who are interested in learning more about the benefits and applications of residential irrigation systems should contact Paramount Well Service today for additional details. Paramount Well Service also offers emergency well services to Bucks County and the surrounding regions visit https://paramountwellservice.com/contact-us/ to schedule services.

About Paramount Well ServiceWith over 30 years of experience, Paramount Well Service prides itself on providing the highest-quality water treatment and pump and tank issue management. As a family-owned and operated business, Paramount Well Service is a fully licensed and insured company that provides both residential and commercial services.

Residents and business owners interested in learning more about Paramount Well Service's areas of expertise and current specials are encouraged to call 800-352-0807 or visit them online at http://paramountwellservice.com/.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/paramount-well-service-advises-on-the-benefits-of-residential-irrigation-systems-1282666.htm

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Paramount Well Service Advises on the Benefits of Residential Irrigation Systems - Press Release - Digital Journal

Investigators will be back on the scene Monday to determine the origin of an early morning fire that caused extensive damage to a large building at the International Paper mill in Coosa.

It was as bad a fire as Ive ever seen out there, said Rome-Floyd County Fire Chief Troy Brock on Sunday.

Battalion Chief Clay Walker, who was with the first responding units, said the location of the fire made it difficult to get to. Once firefighters were close to point of origin, they had to back out and regroup because a portion of the roof and wall had collapsed.

The fire was so hot that it expanded the roof trusses, according to Division Chief Clete Bonney, and that helped push out a side wall of the building.

It caused extensive damage to the production lines, Bonney said.

Fire Marshal Mary Catherine Chewning said one mill employee was taken to the hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation but their condition did not appear to be serious.

We are grateful all of our team members and contractors are safe with no serious injuries reported, said mill spokesperson Jenna Guzman in a Sunday statement.

Walker said the mill sprinkler system helped contain the fire but at least five fire units were on the scene until almost 4 a.m. Sunday, making sure the blaze was out and there were no hot spots.

Debris was still falling from the roof at 3:30 a.m. as the building appeared to be settling at the end of the fire, Bonney added.

Chewning said the nature of the site, coupled with the collapse and the rain on Sunday made it very difficult to get in to investigate. She said International Paper would be flying in personnel from corporate headquarters to assist with the investigation.

The point of origin appeared to be in the area of the two large paper machines inside the building, Chewning said, but she could not pinpoint a specific location Sunday.

Guzman said that it was entirely too early to know what kind of impact the fire will have on production at the mill, which makes linerboard used in cardboard boxes.

The mill has has been the focus of major technological upgrades and close to $300 million in capital investment by International Paper over the last seven years.

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Fire investigators heading back to International Paper mill Monday - The Catoosa County News

The Research Report on Sprinkler Irrigation System marketis a Skillful and Deep Analysis of the Present Situation and Challenges. Experts have studied the historical data and compared it with the current market situation. The Research Reportcovers all the necessary information required by new market entrants as well as the existing players to gain a deeper insight into the market.

Moreover, the research study focuses on the product specifications, diversification, price, cost, production capacity, distribution channel, list of the distributors, and a profound analysis of the import and export data of the product. Upstream raw materials, downstream demand analysis together with the cost, supplier, and consumer list of this market have been examined consistently; product flow and marketing channel have been mentioned as well.

Get a Sample Copy of this Report @:https://www.reportsmonitor.com/request_sample/838343

TheMajor Manufacturers Covered in this Report:Valmont Industries, Inc., Lindsay Corporation, T-L Irrigation Company, Reinke Manufacturing Company, Inc., Nelson Irrigation Corporation, Rain Bird Corporation, Jain Irrigation Systems Limited, Alkhorayef Group, Pierce Corporation, Hunter Industries

The research study focuses on

Product Type SegmentationStationary Sprinkler Irrigation SystemTowable Sprinkler Irrigation System

Industry SegmentationFarmHorticultureOthers

On the basis of geographical segmentation, the report has been categorized into some of the major regions, with production, generation, revenue, usage, aggregate share and the development rate of the market in these geographies over the forecast period, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East and Africa.

Regional Segmentation:

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Some of the Points cover in Global Sprinkler Irrigation SystemMarket Research Report is:

Chapter 1: Overview of Global Sprinkler Irrigation SystemMarket (2020 2024) Definition Specifications Classification Applications Regions

Chapter 2: Market Competition by Players/Suppliers (2020 2024) Raw Material and Suppliers Manufacturing Process Industry Chain Structure.

Explore Full Report with Detailed TOC, Charts, Tables and [emailprotected]https://www.reportsmonitor.com/report/838343/Sprinkler-Irrigation-System-Market

The key takeaways from the report:

To conclude, the Sprinkler Irrigation System Industry report mentions the key geographies, market landscapes alongside the product price, revenue, volume, production, supply, demand, market growth rate, and forecast, etc. This report also provides SWOT analysis, investment feasibility analysis, and investment return analysis.

Contact Us:Jay MatthewsDirect: +1 513 549 5911 (U.S.), +44 203 318 2846 (U.K.)Email: [emailprotected]

Excerpt from:
Sprinkler Irrigation System Market To 2024 High Growth Opportunities | Emerging Trends | Industry Review | Global Forecast | Valmont Industries, Inc.,...

If you're tired of dragging that old lawn sprinkler around every few days, you may want to consider installing your own underground sprinkler system. By doing the job yourself, you can save 30 to 40 percent of the cost of a professional installation, and today's sprinkler components are easier than ever to assemble. Once your system is in place, you can program it to water your lawn on a regular schedule, and also set the startup time and watering duration.

STEP 1: Use a gauge to determine your water pressure.

To start this process, measure your water pressure at an outdoor faucet with a simple pressure gauge available at home centers (Step 1). Then, use a 5-gal. bucket to measure how much water the system delivers per minute. Send this information to the sprinkler manufacturer you have chosen, along with a scale drawing of your property.

In return, you'll receive a system layout and a materials list, including items not sold by the manufacturer. Rain Bird, the company I used for the primary sprinkler components, has a variable fee scale for its layouts that ranges from free to $50, depending on how you want the plans delivered and how soon you need them (rainbird.com). A system layout divides your lawn into zones, each controlled by a zone valve. I installed a total of eight zones and 48 sprinkler heads.

While you can install the entire system yourself and dig everything by hand, I installed the piping with a pipe-pulling machine that rented for around $180 a day.

In addition to the valves, heads and control panel from Rain Bird, I used a clever, self-tapping saddle valve called the Blazing Saddle (blazingproducts.com). This bright yellow valve snaps onto polyethylene pipe without a wrench.

In warm climates, you can run the entire system in PVC pipe. I used polyethylene pipe, a more flexible alternative, because the system has to withstand the freeze-thaw cycles that are common where I live. In any case, you must consult local plumbing codes before beginning work and you may be required to secure a building permit.

Finally, every system needs a backflow preventer to keep the sprinkler system from contaminating the potable water supply. One type is a standard, surface-level backflow preventer (about $150), which must be installed 12 in. above the highest point of the yard. I installed a reduced-pressure backflow preventer (about $350) because it's allowed below grade. I put it in the basement and will drain the system to this point each winter. The cost of an in-ground sprinkler system can vary widely. My eight-zone system ran about $1500.

Running Pipes

If you plan to dig the entire system by hand, dig the main runs first, then the branch lines. They should be at least 6 in. deep, but 8 to 10 in. will give you better fitting room.

If you've rented a pipe puller, begin by attaching the pipe to the machine's blade (Step 2). When running a main feed line, it's best to wrap the low-voltage cable around the pipe and pull it at the same time. With the piping connected, start the machine moving forward and lower the blade into the ground.

Bore through your home's rim joist, and run copper pipe and cable through the hole and to the ground. Make the conversion from copper to PVC at ground level with a threaded connector. Run the main PVC line, along with the cable, to the first zone-valve location.

Assemble the zone-valve sets above-ground, then cement them to the underground piping (Step 3). Install a plastic, inline drain fitting on the downstream side of each valve and connect the cable wires. My cable had 10 wires and each zone valve had two lead wires. Connect one of each pair of valve lead wires to a common (white) cable wire that will service all of the valves. Join a different color-coded wire to the other lead of each zone valve. Continue making connections in this way until you've reached the last set (Step 4). With all the valves connected and wired, install valve boxes and backfill.

The feed line needs to have a drain fitting at its lowest point. Thread a brass drain fitting into the threaded end of a PVC tee and install the tee downward at 45 degrees (Step 5). Dig a small depression under the drain, and fill it with sand and gravel.

STEP 2: Start the pipe puller moving forward and settle the blade into the turf. The blade will shimmy the pipe into the ground.

STEP 3: Assemble the zone valves above-ground, then connect them to the underground pipes. Each valve needs a drain.

STEP 4: Attach one of every valve's lead wires to the white common wire and connect a colored wire to each remaining lead.

STEP 5: Install a brass drain valve at each low spot of the feed line. Thread the valve into the tee with Teflon tape.

To tunnel under walkways and other obstacles, use a homemade sluice pipe. Attach a pointed sluice nozzle, available at home centers, to one end of a length of PVC pipe. Join a hose connector to the other end of the pipe and dig shallow trenches on opposing sides of the sidewalk. With the hose connected and the water turned on, push the pipe forward and back under the sidewalk to create the hole (Step 6).

STEP 6: Use a sluice pipe to tunnel under sidewalks. The brass fitting is sold at hardware stores and home centers.

Polyethylene pipe is joined by barb fittings. These can be secured by hose clamps, but stainless steel crimp rings (to have a look at these, go to http://www.oetiker.com) are a better choice. They're inexpensive ($16 for 100) and are a snap to use. Cut the pipe with a scissors-style pipe cutter (Step 7).

STEP 7: Use a scissors-type pipe cutter on the polyethylene pipe. It's quick and easy to use, and leaves a clean edge.

Slide the crimp ring onto each pipe and insert the barb fitting (Step 8).

STEP 8: Slide a crimp ring onto each pipe and insert the barb fitting.

Slide the rings in place and crimp them tight with the pliers (Step 9).

STEP 9: Draw the crimp rings together with crimp-ring pliers.

Installing the Heads

The sprinkler heads can be connected to the pipes in several ways. If drainage is not a problem, the simplest method is to install a 90-degree ell with a barb fitting on one end and a female thread on the other (Step 10).

STEP 10: If drainage isn't required, use a 90-degree ell at the sprinkler head. Thread a riser into the top of the ell.

If you're at a low spot and need seasonal drainage, install a 90-degree drain ell instead (Step 11).

STEP 11: To drain a low spot under a sprinkler head, use a 90-degree drain ell. Install it upright, with the threads at the top.

From there, you can connect a head to the ell with a threaded riser, or make an offset swing pipe. To make a swing-pipe connection, thread one 90-degree ell into the drain fitting and another into the bottom of a sprinkler head. Use Teflon tape on the threads. Then, join the two ells with a length of 3/8-in. polyethylene swing pipe (Step 12).

STEP 12: Connect the ell to the sprinkler head with 3/8-in. swing pipe. Use Teflon tape, but no crimp rings.

This fit is so snug that it doesn't need a crimp ring. Finish by filling the hole while tamping the soil with a rubber mallet every 4 in. (Step 13).

STEP 13: Backfill the hole 4 in. at a time and tamp the soil with a rubber mallet. Then top off the soil with sod.

When tapping into a continuous piping run, use the self-tapping saddle valve mentioned earlier (Step 14).

STEP 14: Press the saddle valve's collar around the pipe and snap it together. You will feel it click when it locks in place.

To connect the head, install either a swing pipe or a threaded riser in the top of the fitting (Step 15).

STEP 15: When the pipe is directly under a sprinkler, connect the head with a threaded riser.

I equipped my system with three types of heads: spray heads for small areas, rotary heads for the large areas and a bubbler for the flower garden. The bubbler sends a trickle of water through 1/8-in. tubing to various spots in the garden (Step 16).

STEP 16: A bubbler head is specially designed to allow you to soak a flowerbed without getting the foliage wet.

Final Touches

Local plumbing codes will dictate how you tap into your household water system, but my installation was fairly typical. I cut into the 3/4-in. water line just beyond the meter and upsized to 1-in. pipe for the sprinkler system branch line.

Soon after the tap, install a full-flow ball valve (Step 17).

STEP 17: Install a full-flow ball valve so you can service the backflow preventer without shutting down the house's water supply.

After the ball valve, install a brass nipple and the reduced-pressure backflow preventer (Step 18). Run piping from the backflow preventer to the pipe installed through the rim joist.

STEP 18: Install the reduced-pressure backflow preventer right after the ball valve. This type is designed for below-grade use.

This type of backflow preventer will occasionally back surge, so you'll need a catch basin with an air gap underneath it. Pipe the basin to a nearby floor drain with 1-in. pipe (Step 19). The piping after the backflow preventer will also need a drain valve so you can drain the overhead line in winter.

STEP 19: Install an air-gap catch basin on the unit and run a full-size drainpipe to the nearest floor drain.

Install the control panel. Run the cable into the panel, strip the wires and connect them according to the manufacturer's installation instructions (Step 20).

STEP 20: Run the zone-valve cable to the control box. Connect the wires according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Link:
How to Install a Sprinkler System - Installing an ...

TheNew Hope-Solebury Board of School Directorson Tuesday night willdiscuss the potential renovation of the districts athletic fields and track at a special meeting in the Upper Elementary School LGI Room.

All of the districts fields are in need of an upgrade, but issues with the stadium field and track are potentially the most costly.

The track needs to be resurfaced, and weve been talking about a turf field, explained Dr. Charles Lentz, Superintendent of Schools, in an interview last September.

The athletic field is currently comprised of natural grass,and the price tag for a new synthetic field was estimated at $1.5 million last year. A less expensive option would be to install a sprinkler system and drainage system, and re-crown and sod the field. Problems with overuse of the field would remain under that scenario, and reestablishing the crown and grass would be a chronic maintenance item, the district has asserted.

Other stadium improvements under consideration include installation of a new PA system, an upgrade to the lighting system to mitigate spillage into the surrounding homes, and a new multipurpose building to solve restroom lighting and ADA compliance issues and accommodateticket collection, a snack stand, press box and storage needs.

The NHSSD track, installed in 2004, has never been properly maintained due to a lack of adequate funds, resulting in damage to its foundation,according to the district. That fix would require a new macadam foundation, rubber surface and paint at a projected cost of $200,000.

The districts Campus Athletic Facility Project also calls for upgrades or repairs to Fields 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, and 12, along with the basketball courts. Many of the field issues involve poor drainage or lack of ADA compliance.

Tuesday nights special meeting at Upper Elementary School LGI Room begins at 6:30 p.m.

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Renovation of New Hope-Solebury athletic fields focus of special meeting Tuesday - New Hope Free Press

By: Conserva Irrigation | 11Shares 82Reads

March 11, 2020 // Franchising.com // RICHMOND, Va - Conserva Irrigation, the only national outdoor irrigation company founded on the concept of water conservation and part of the Outdoor Living Brands family of brands, announced Jason Butler as Conserva Irrigation Franchisee of the Year. The recognition highlights the franchisee who best exemplifies Conserva Irrigation through the successful growth of their network while serving as a strong advocate for the brand. As a franchise owner of two Outdoor Living Brands concepts, including Conserva Irrigation and Outdoor Lighting Perspectives, Butler was recognized for his stand-out leadership within the Conserva Irrigation system at Outdoor Living Brands Annual Meeting in San Antonio.

Since opening Conserva Irrigation of North Atlanta in 2017, Butler has driven his operation to be one of the top three in sales in the system and earned a spot on the Best of Gwinnett list by Guide to Gwinnett for three consecutive years. As owner of his own data and marketing company, Butler has learned to prioritize quality customer service and take a hands-on approach to business. As a result, he brings the same dedication to his franchise territory and local community as he does to Conserva Irrigation, which secured his position on the companys Strategic Advisory Board in 2018.

Its an honor to be recognized by Conserva Irrigation and Outdoor Living Brands, who invest in the continued prosperity of their franchisees and show a passion for responsible irrigation and helping to eliminate water waste across the country, said Butler. As an entrepreneur, Im often searching for business opportunities with a social responsibility component. Conserva is a forward-thinking partner hyper-focused on smart irrigation and utilizes the right tools to help eliminate water waste, while simultaneously saving our clients money. Im excited to continue expanding, while maintaining quality customer care throughout North Atlanta.

Franchisees such as Butler have found success with Conserva Irrigation thanks to the brands proprietary process to audit irrigation systems, which rates the water efficiency of a system based on a numerical scale allowing for homeowners to understand how much water their sprinkler systems are wasting. As a result of the System Efficiency Score, Conserva Irrigation has evolved rapidly within its segment, already adding seven territories across three states this year alone.

Dedicated franchisees like Jason Butler, who joined the company when we launched our franchise program in 2017, have been the backbone of our brand and have given us the power to quickly expand across more than 90 territories, said Russ Jundt, founder of Conserva Irrigation. Were very proud of Jason and his accomplishments and look forward to seeing his success continue. As we aim to eclipse 100 territories very soon, well continue to seek qualified candidates who share our passion for water conservation and environmentally responsible irrigation.

Conserva Irrigation is looking to expand further throughout the United States and is seeking single- and multi-unit operators with a range of experience levels, as well as those looking for add-on or conversion business opportunities. Incentives are also available for veterans, multi-territory agreements and those with existing businesses or are an employee of an existing franchisee.

Founded as a franchise in 2017, Conserva Irrigation is the only national outdoor irrigation company founded on the principle of water conservation. The brand is part of Outdoor Living Brands, a market-leading franchisor of premium residential and commercial outdoor living services. With 91 territories across the country and growing, Conserva Irrigation is helping home and business owners reduce water consumption through its use of a proprietary irrigation auditing system and water-efficient irrigation products. Conserva Irrigation recently debuted on Entrepreneur Magazines 2020 Franchise 500 list at #296. For more information about Conserva Irrigation, visit https://www.conservairrigation.com/or OutdoorLivingBrands.com.

SOURCE Conserva Irrigation

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Excerpt from:
Outdoor Living Brands Names Jason Butler Franchisee Of The Year - Franchising.com

Following multiple infrastructure evaluations, much deliberation and previous delays, a $22 million capital improvements bond will appear on the ballot for West Lake Hills residents May 2. Since its incorporation in 1953, the city has never gone out for bond, and according to Mayor Linda Anthony, the decision was four years in the making.

The bond is centered on the citys major infrastructure needs and encompasses a proposition for a new City Hall and police building as well as a proposition devoted to drainage and pavement projects. Various roadways, including Wildcat Hollow and Camp Craft Road, are subject to frequent floods and continuous maintenance, according to officials.

The neighboring city of Rollingwood faces similar challenges related to its aging infrastructure, according to a report by engineering firm K. Friese & Associates, which highlighted the citys major flooding and drainage concerns.

Both cities are dealing with issues related to flood damage in their respective municipal buildings, and in Rollingwoods case, black mold has been found. The mold led West Lake Hills to dedicate $12 million of the bond to the construction of a larger, safer and more accessible municipal building, Anthony said.

While Rollingwood has not taken official action on a bond, the city is devoting funds and extensive research toward evaluating the need for citywide upgrades, Mayor Michael Dyson said.

Failing facilities

Officials have frequently discussed the prospect of a capital improvements bond from inside the aging chambers of the West Lake Hills City Hall building, which was built as a residential property in 1982.

Anthony said the structure has faced numerous issues, including flooding, multiple roof repairs, electrical issues, accessibility issues and a number of building code compliance violations. She said when the city contracted a study by Brinkley Sargent Wiginton in 2018 it became increasingly clear that repairing the existing structure was impractical.

People may be under the impression that were a small city [and that] weve got adequate space, Anthony said. They dont realize that our offices are carved out of closets and hallways.

The architectural study concluded that the municipal building was in a state of disrepair, with the buildings connected police department presenting the largest shortcomings.

Police Chief Scott Gerdes said and his officers and staff work through these challenges on a daily basis. The building contains a single locker room for both male and female officers, lacks the necessary electrical abilities to charge devices and contains no fire sprinkler system.

Gerdes has previously told Community Impact Newspaper his department has no proper interview room or privacy for citizens filing police reports, and that is still the case. If a resident needed to report a crime, he or she would do so in the buildings lobby, next to individuals looking to pay their speeding tickets.

Rollingwoods officers also struggle with space and structural problems. In 2016, the city found mold in the police building attached to City Hall, forcing the department into a portable building on the property, out of which officers still operate.

The discovery drove the discussion on the overall inadequacies of the building, eventually leading the city to contract a facilities study by Brinkley Sargent in December 2017. The study concluded that the spatial needs of the combined municipal buildings are 3,896 square feet less than what would be considered adequate.

In terms of aging infrastructure, both cities have also conducted studies highlighting issues related to roadway and drainage improvements.

Critical mass sounds a little dramatic, Dyson said. But for lack of a better word, we realized any number of our infrastructure needs have reached that.

Roadway and drainage repairs

Discussion and assessment of potential drainage improvements are among the first priorities for Rollingwood, Dyson said, adding that the city will tackle drainage plans first, then roadways, then water line repairs.

The study by K. Friese identified 23 potential drainage projects within city limits, including repairs on Bee Caves Road, Edgegrove and Nixon Road. The projects, which totaled $19.72 million, were based on a variety of factors including resident input.

Dyson said the study, presented at the Feb. 19 Rollingwood City Council meeting, provided a detailed scope of the citys drainage ecosystem and took into account public surveys, fieldwork and hydraulic modeling.

What [the study] intended to provide is a kind of overarching foundational conversation supported by a lot of engineering data to help us understand exactly what our challenges are with regard to drainage, Dyson said.

Prior to implementing the reports suggestions, he said, more data is required regarding the citys easements and rights of way within its roadway system. This information would clarify the boundaries between city and private property.

West Lake Hills also contracted K. Friese to examine the scope of the citys critical roadway and drainage projects. The list of potential repairs was debated and edited for months prior to approving the total cost of $10 million.

The most expensive projects include drainage repairs on the Eanes Creek low-water crossing, which totals $2,084,900, as well as both drainage and roadway repairs on Redbud Trail at $2,806,100.

In total, the bond encompasses six roadway and drainage projects, which Anthony referred to as big-ticket items too costly to be funded by the citys general fund.

Sooner or later youre gonna have to spend a significant chunk of change to address our infrastructure needs, Anthony said, adding that minor fixes over the years have only served as temporary Band-Aids.

Finding funding

The West Lake Hills community has benefited from an arguably low tax rate for years, Anthony said. The rate of $0.07 per $100 valuation is significantly lower when compared with cities of similar median home value, according to City Administrator Travis Askey.

Anthony said keeping up with the citys aging infrastructure needs is not feasible at the current rate, and as a result, seeking a bond to fund the major projects was the best option.

The rate could potentially double if both bond propositions pass, and Anthony noted that even if that occurs, the city will still operate on a lower tax rate than comparable municipalities.

In some ways, weve done ourselves a disservice by keeping the property tax as low as we have for as long as we have and making the assumption that sales tax revenue can carry us, Anthony said.

The study by K. Friese originally called for a bond with a larger price tag; however, the city evaluated the data and decided to complete a number of smaller projects out of its general fund.

Dyson noted that as the city continues to build upon its own data pool, Rollingwood is also examining innovative funding options when developing an infrastructure plan.

I would argue that a bond election is our last resort, Dyson said, adding that a number of the citys drainage projects may be eligible for funding through federal or state grants.

Rollingwood is also looking to bolster its commercial district along Bee Caves Road to increase revenue. The citys funding is comprised of an 80% property tax and 20% sales tax ratio, and Dyson said he would like to see a more balanced revenue stream.

Officials recently commissioned what Dyson called a robust study from The Retail Coach, a retail consulting firm that provides market research and development strategies for city governments and other entities.

Information from that study shows one takeaway focuses on planning and zoning inconsistencies along Bee Caves that are potentially hindering potential and current business. The idea of mixed-used and multilevel developments was also considered.

It's maybe not just enough to address aging infrastructure, but in fact, we should probably consider new infrastructure, Dyson said.

Rollingwoods recent data-driven studies have provided the city with a strong overview of its current needs. According to Dyson, the conversation on project design and finances is on the horizon.

Now we can start having a conversation, Dyson said. Where do our needs and our expectations come into play with the actual dollars required to undertake these things?

Emphasizing community outreach

Dyson has stressed the need for a thoughtful and meticulous approach when tackling these infrastructure projects. While the city is acting on this plan there is no desire to rush the process, and Rollingwood will continue with additional studies and analysis on its infrastructure plan, he said.

The time is right. The question is, what is it right for? Dyson said. Thats the conversation the community needs to have, and its on us to give them the data points.

Dyson emphasized civic engagement as an invaluable component of any local government, and said moving forward Rollingwood officials hope for an open conversation with the community regarding its infrastructure needs.

Transparency and community involvement have been frequently discussed in association with the bond for West Lake Hills, and City Council is putting together a political action committee tasked with educating residents throughout the city and advocating for the bond.

To help place more emphasis on community participation, council will also continue to hold open houses prior to the May 2 election. Anthony said this bond is a new venture for both the city and its residents, and working together is the best option.

While the bond may be alarming to residents at first, Askey said, the need to invest in the citys infrastructure has been a long time coming.

I dont know any other municipality in Texas thats gone 60 years of their incorporation that has never issued debt, Askey said. Its unheard of.

Dyson said Rollingwood officials have also prioritized community outreachthat it is the citys duty to obtain the data and make it consumable for residents.

This isnt a community for me. This isnt a community for you. This is a community for us, Dyson said. Hopefully more often than not our needs align.

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Municipalities in the Westlake area work to improve aging infrastructure - Community Impact Newspaper