by CHRIS ROGERS

On Monday, the Winona City Council is expected to vote on an issue Winonans have been working on for nearly 50 years: returning the island city's riverfront park to its former glory. The Levee Park Committee will present its new plan for Levee Park, an effort that will likely cost a few million dollars and would widen the Main Street railroad crossing, erect a large open-air performance structure, in-fill parts of the park, and leave the levee wall largely untouched.

"I think there is a real interest in the community for fixing up Levee Park and reconnecting with the river," said Winona Mayor Mark Peterson. Peterson and Levee Park Committee Chair Frank Pomeroy both described numerous things happening within the next few years that, if the city makes Levee Park shine, could be great opportunities to draw visitors to the downtown riverfront. They listed the construction of the new interstate bridge in 2016, the construction of a new bicycle trail and railroad overpass in Aghaming Park, streetscape planning by the downtown revitalization group Main Street, and the possibility of new river cruise ships stopping in Winona. "These are things that can have a big impact on a community, and I think if we put the effort into fixing up Levee Park, I think we will be a destination for those boats to stop again," Peterson stated.

Winona has faltered on improving Levee Park in the past, but if Winonans do not act now, we will always regret it, said Levee Park Committee member Mike Kennedy. "It would be a tremendous missed opportunity," he said. "It's time to commit and get it done," he added.

At the Monday meeting, the City Council is expected to vote on whether it approves of the committee's ideas for the park. While the committee's recommendations outline a rough plan for funding, the council is not yet being asked to vote on major funding for the park project, which has been the Achilles' heel of past Levee Park efforts.

It is still unclear how much the proposed changes will cost. The committee provided rough cost estimates for some parts of its plan, totaling $1.56 million to $1.78 million. However, there are still no cost estimates for several other parts of the park plan.

The proposed changes

Under the committee's proposed plan, the city would widen the pedestrian railroad crossing at Main Street to be as wide as the street and the stairs leading up to the former Wilkie site. The committee is also interested in improving and widening other pedestrian crossings at Center and Lafayette streets; however, crossings require approval from the Union Pacific (UP) Railroad, and while approval of a wider Main Street crossing seems likely, UP is opposed to adding new park entrances. The Main Street crossing changes are estimated to cost $115,000.

At the former Wilkie site, the committee has proposed a large stage and open-air pavilion that would take up most of the circular "patio" and provide a space for hosting concerts and other performances. This is estimated to cost $880,000 to $1,100,000. The committee recommended building a ramp leading up to the patio from the parking lot to the west that would accommodate handicapped visitors and vehicles needed for setting up special events. The committee also recommended rebuilding the stairs facing Main Street. Those costs are unknown.

The pavilion would be situated at a 45-degree angle to the river and, under the plan, the grassy area to the southwest of the patio would be in-filled to make it level with the patio height. That area would be used for overflow performance seating. Engineering for that in-fill is estimated to cost $100,000. Construction costs are unknown.

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Vote on new Levee Park plan Monday

This approval includes State Requirements for Education Facilities (SREF) compliance.

Leesburg Concrete Company, Inc. received official notification from the Department of Business Professional Regulations designating two Easi-Set precast concrete buildings as produced by LCCI are "APPROVED" for use at schools.

Leesburg Concrete received the formal approval for the Type IIB Modular Construction Carson Model Flush Restroom and 30' x 8' Dugouts. The approval states: Pursuant to the requirements of the Department of Business Professional Regulation the above referenced documents have been reviewed for compliance with the 2010 Florida Building Code, 2012 State Requirements for Educational Facilities (SREF), 2012 Florida Accessibility Code, 2010 Florida Energy Code, 2010 FMC, 2010 FPC, 2008 NEC and 2014 Florida Fire Prevention Code.

All mandatory comments have been satisfied and your plans are APPROVED for construction

"This is a great step forward." noted Kirk Rouse, "These buildings are manufactured in our plant under rigid quality controls, meet the specifications required and are third party inspected. Our intention is to continue submitting our other buildings for approval such as concession stands, classrooms, etc."

Leesburg Concrete Company Inc. looks forward to increased manufacturing and delivery of these buildings to schools, parks and other markets throughout the state of Florida and other States that recognize Florida's strict standards.

Leesburg Concrete Company, Incorporated LCCI produces precast concrete in their Leesburg, Florida NPCA certified plant. They specialize in precast concrete and metal fabrication. Leesburg Concrete is proud of their continued diversification expansion and success. Family owned and operated since 1983, Leesburg Concrete Company, Incorporated was first a leading manufacturer of precast concrete steps decks, walkways, landings, and ADA compliant modular precast concrete wheelchair ramps, with steel guard rails, and handrails. LCCI has grown to include architectural precast wall panels and precast concrete stairs in its product offerings. LCCI also offers a wide array of custom precast product options. "We Take Pride in exceeding our customer's expectations" stated Kirk Rouse, Vice President of LCCI. This American, family-owned company demonstrates a philosophy of quality and innovation.

Leesburg Concrete Company, Incorporated is focused on meeting the needs of commercial building construction and renovation projects. Their experienced staff provides turnkey service, and it only takes one call to find the solution to your building needs. For more information visit their website at http://www.leesburgconcrete.com, (800) 882-4177, or KRouse@leesburgconcrete.com.

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Leesburg Concrete Receives DBPR Manufactured Building Approval

Bath, England Yes, there really is a natural hot spring beneath the city of Bath, but soaking in the above-ground sights and sounds will leave you plenty relaxed.

With its Georgian brick buildings and lush green hills, almost everywhere in Bath feels like a living postcard. With landmarks from Roman and medieval times, you may feel youve landed back in time, but the juxtaposition of stately terraced houses and people hustling about on smartphones brings you out of that fantasy.

Bath somehow weaves together threads of small-town life with cosmopolitan sophistication. It has galleries, museums and theaters. Its a college town anchored by the University of Bath. And it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Even on a mere day trip from London, just 90 minutes away by train, Bath bubbles over with charm.

Bath Abbey

A majestic landmark in the center of town, Bath Abbey is the third place of worship to occupy this site in 1,200 years. The first church, built in 757, was replaced by a cathedral soon after the Norman conquest of England in 1066. That one gave way in the 15th century to the abbey thats there today.

Walk inside and eye the vaulted ceiling and stunning stained glass windows showing 56 scenes from Christs life. A floor plaque marks Queen Elizabeth IIs 1973 visit. Tours of the church tower are available; its just 212 steps to the top.

Roman Baths

You might say the Romans were the first in Western Europe to come up with the spa weekend.

The Roman Baths date back to the year 70, with a sprawling pool of natural, hot spring water called the Great Bath located below street level. You can see the steam swirling from a terrace on the street above. People dressed in period clothing such as a Roman soldier or stone mason stand in the archways.

The complex includes several underground spaces and displays.

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Soaking It in in Bath

Falls are serious at any age, but are particularly dangerous for people age 65 and older. Falls among older adults are the leading cause of injury deaths and the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma.

Older adults should take these precautions to reduce the risk of falling:

* Increase lower body strength. Work with your doctor and physical therapist to develop an appropriate and effective exercise plan.

* Have your vision and hearing tested often. Even small changes in sight and hearing can make you less stable.

* Look carefully at floor surfaces in public buildings. Many floors are made of highly polished marble or tile that can be very slippery. Stay away from a freshly washed floor.

* Have all the medicines you take reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist to reduce side effects such as dizziness, confusion, disorientation or slowed reflexes.

* Stand up slowly after eating, lying down or resting.

* Use a shoulder bag, fanny pack or backpack to leave hands free.

* Make sure your sofas and chairs are a good height for you, so that you can get into and out of them easily.

* Wear rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes (inside and outside).

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Preventing falls

Penny Porter

Penny Porter is a full-time professional writer and a contributor to "Kraze" magazine. She is pursuing a bachelor's degree in journalism at Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, Kentucky.

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Building a brick walkway often seems like an intimidating task, due to the time and attention to detail necessary to piece the walkway together. This task seems more intimidating when you make the decision to build a curved brick walkway. Building a brick walk that includes sharp or gentle curves requires additional steps to cut the bricks to fit the space before installing or laying the bricks into the walkway's space. Laying a curved brick walkway may take more than a week to accomplish.

A curved walkway adds flow to a yard and balances the corners of a home. Bricks bring a long-lasting, classic look to...

How to Make a Curved Walkway With Pavers. A curved walkway has a unique charm that appeals to a lot of homeowners....

Outdoor walkways and paths can make your yard more inviting and can make a large yard easier to navigate. A durable brick...

Here's a method of laying out a path so that you can experiment with the shape and create smooth curves. ... How...

Forget the Spanish bond brick pattern altogether for curved walks, as it will require the brick be turned a 90-degree angle to...

Using bricks or pavers to build your home's walkway adds an elegant touch to your home that concrete or asphalt cannot match....

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How to Lay a Curved Brick Walkway (10 Steps) | eHow

ANDREW BROWN | Gazette

Ted Armbrecht III, a South Hills resident and avid cyclist, points out some of the locations in Charleston where he believes bike routes could be improved.

Efforts to rethink and redesign the walkways and bike paths of West Virginias capital city are underway.

On Wednesday, city officials and employees with Alta Planning and Design held open-door meetings to discuss the creation of the citys Bike and Trail Master Plan.

The goal of this is to create a master plan that will be implemented over several years, said city manager David Molgaard.

The meetings were the first steps taken in a 10-month process that will eventually provide a road map for how to improve bike routes throughout the city, something the people in attendance appreciated.

The city should be commended on what they have done so far, said Ted Armbrecht III, a resident of South Hills.

While the public meetings were meant to define residents expectations, they were also used to pinpoint where the citys infrastructure is currently failing cyclists.

Jarret Smith, who lives in Davis Creek but works in Kanawha City, said there are certain areas of Charleston that are safer than others. While Smith said he feels relatively safe cycling along the roads in the East End, he said biking in parts of Kanawha City and on the Patrick Street Bridge can be a little dicey.

All the bridges are a little disconcerting, said Jill Watkins, a resident of South Charleston, adding that when you bike across the citys bridges you usually sit above the guardrails.

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Charleston residents advise officials on new city bike and trail plan

Stage One of Rotorua Lakes Councils proposed Boulevard Gardens project in Kuirau Park is set to become a reality as a result of a $273,000 grant from the Francis Moss Boord Trust.

The gardens project is a component of the councils wider strategy to redevelop and upgrade Kuirau Park over a number of years, improving connectivity with the inner city and encouraging more widespread use of the park.

Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick said the council was extremely grateful to the Francis Moss Boord Trust for its generous donation to a special community project that will be enjoyed by many people - locals and visitors alike - for many years to come.

"It seems very fitting that a philanthropic trust set up through the will of Rotoruas well-respected former MP and mayor, the late Ray Boord, will contribute to such an important community project as this. The Boulevard Gardens project will now gather real momentum because of this partnership between the trust and the council.

"We acknowledge the trustees foresight and were particularly delighted that theyve been able to share our vision for this very exciting project. Were sure former mayor Boord would approve."

Speaking on behalf of the Francis Moss Boord Trust, Perpetual Guardians client manager Jan Middlemiss said the $273,000 grant for establishing new gardens, walkways and picnic areas in Kuirau Park was the most significant distribution of funds ever made by the trust.

"The project fits very well with the objectives of the trust to benefit the Rotorua community, and it certainly honours the legacy left by Ray Boord."

The Boulevard Gardens concept is for a series of five specialty and feature gardens in Kuirau Park. They will be connected by a combined public walkway and cycle path, integrated with the new Green Corridor currently under construction, and linking key attractions and activities within the unique geothermal reserve.

Sculpture within a landscaped entrance area will be part of a meeting and information point to help form a gateway into the inner city. This entrance will lead into Kuirau Park and to five new gardens, including a contemporary New Zealand garden of Rotorua-specific native vegetation, an interactive scent garden, a hosta garden for spring and summer months, and climbing gardens with vertical structures.

Stage One will run from near the Ranolf/Haupapa streets intersection side of Kuirau Park and meander through to the main foot pool and public restrooms area. This will be implemented in steps over the next 18 months as weather and resources allow, with completion and official opening scheduled for Spring/Summer of 2016.

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Boulevard Gardens project in Kuirau Park to become reality

Former Rotorua mayors legacy funds Boulevard Gardens project for Kuirau Park

Stage One of Rotorua Lakes Councils proposed Boulevard Gardens project in Kuirau Park is set to become a reality as a result of a $273,000 grant from the Francis Moss Boord Trust.

The gardens project is a component of the councils wider strategy to redevelop and upgrade Kuirau Park over a number of years, improving connectivity with the inner city and encouraging more widespread use of the park.

Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick said the council was extremely grateful to the Francis Moss Boord Trust for its generous donation to a special community project that will be enjoyed by many people - locals and visitors alike - for many years to come.

It seems very fitting that a philanthropic trust set up through the will of Rotoruas well-respected former MP and mayor, the late Ray Boord, will contribute to such an important community project as this. The Boulevard Gardens project will now gather real momentum because of this partnership between the trust and the council.

We acknowledge the trustees foresight and were particularly delighted that theyve been able to share our vision for this very exciting project. Were sure former mayor Boord would approve.

Speaking on behalf of the Francis Moss Boord Trust, Perpetual Guardians client manager Jan Middlemiss said the $273,000 grant for establishing new gardens, walkways and picnic areas in Kuirau Park was the most significant distribution of funds ever made by the trust.

The project fits very well with the objectives of the trust to benefit the Rotorua community, and it certainly honours the legacy left by Ray Boord.

The Boulevard Gardens concept is for a series of five specialty and feature gardens in Kuirau Park. They will be connected by a combined public walkway and cycle path, integrated with the new Green Corridor currently under construction, and linking key attractions and activities within the unique geothermal reserve.

Sculpture within a landscaped entrance area will be part of a meeting and information point to help form a gateway into the inner city. This entrance will lead into Kuirau Park and to five new gardens, including a contemporary New Zealand garden of Rotorua-specific native vegetation, an interactive scent garden, a hosta garden for spring and summer months, and climbing gardens with vertical structures.

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Former mayors legacy funds Boulevard Gardens project

by Peter Boon, reporters@theborneopost.com. Posted on March 16, 2015, Monday

SIBU: Steps have been taken to reduce the number of snatch thefts in the country, which has shown fluctuation in cases over the past three years.

This was disclosed by Deputy Home Affairs Minister Dato Sri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar yesterday when responding to the call by Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) for law enforcement agencies, including local authorities and NGOs, to work together to fight the menace.

MCPF vice-chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye had suggested that various measures be taken, including for the police to implement more effective measures, to nab snatch thieves.

To this, Wan Junaidi said: Actually, the snatch theft figures for 2012, 2013 and 2014 showed fluctuation.

In 2012, the nationwide total stood at 2,500 cases, down to 2,118 cases in 2013 before increasing to 2,379 in 2014.

Selangor recorded the highest number of incidents of snatch theft and it does not seem to reduce in number.

Sarawak indicates similar trend, record showed only 97 cases in 2012 then increased to 183 cases in 2013 and went down to 140 cases in 2014.

One of the ways taken by the authorities to reduce the risk, he added, was by erecting fencing along walkways and building proper pedestrian pathways.

Others included the installation of CCTVs at strategic locations by the Ministry of Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government in collaboration with the local authority and police, he said.

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Site Last Updated 1:41 am, Monday

What's being dubbed "The Big Thaw" may be bringing record-setting warmth to much of the country and putting happy faces on people in the Northeast this week, but don't be fooled by the glow.

Winter isn't over yet and some of its most vicious storms have battered the country in March. Not surprisingly, forecasters are calling for more snow in parts of the Northeast for winter's last weekend before spring officially arrives March 20.

The worst snowstorm ever recorded in terms of casualties happened in March 1888. Known as The Great Blizzard, more than 400 people died when as much as 50 inches of snow fell throughout the Northeast. The storm was so fierce that more than 200 ships reportedly sank.

A bit closer in memory is the so-called The Storm of the Century in March 1993, which left more than 300 dead and billions of dollars in property damage along the Eastern seaboard.

Today, Canada's Weather Network is calling for a late start to spring, reminding viewers that "March is a winter month." Ice on the Great Lakes and deep snow cover across the Atlantic region will contribute to slower warming, it reported. That's important intel for those living in the northern United States.

Meanwhile, the southern U.S. is getting sopped with heavy rains and flood watches. With tropical moisture impacting the Gulf Coast and snow melt - albeit in drips and drabs - threatening other areas, there are some steps you can take to prevent more damage than what this winter has already caused.

Try building a rain garden next to driveways and walkways to help with water runoff by sponging water on more impervious surfaces such as asphalt and cement.

Such gardens can stop water build-up, thereby thwarting basement and street floods. They also stop excess water from entering drains, which helps mitigate water pollution. As runoff flows, it can pick up pollutants and toxins, facilitating their travels to water sources or shorelines.

To plant a rain garden, use native plants that adapt well to the local climate. Wildflowers, shrubs and ferns are good bets. The soil mix is key to draining: 60% sand, 20% compost or biochar and 20% topsoil.

Rain garden not your style? You can also build a berm, a small mound or raised garden placed in front of the area you are trying to protect or redirect water away from. By using soil, grass and more water-friendly plants you can redirect water flow.

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Don't let this week's spring thaw fool you