A new nonprofit organization aims to help low-income Carter County residents perform needed home improvements and upgrades that they would be otherwise unable to afford.

The Carter County Home Improvement Project, Inc., was recently formed to repair and improve substandard housing of county residents. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit group, which means that all donations to the group are tax deductible.

The organization plans to place a particular emphasis on wheelchair ramp installation, floor repair or replacement, repair of unsafe windows and doors, and gutter repair and replacement.

The board of directors for the organization consists of Jim Speaks, president, Chris Yates, vice president, Robert Caummisar, Secretary, Steve Kuhner, treasures, Pearl Crum, Jason Greer, Jackie Clevenger, and Ronnie Graves.

We would welcome new board members who could commit to regularly attending meetings, said Caummisar. More than anything, however, we would love to get together with skilled individuals who would be willing to volunteer services such as carpentry, roofing, window repair, and other valuable work.

The organization will follow federal poverty guidelines in determining eligibility for work. Individuals must be at or below poverty in order to qualify for help.

Its important to note that this is for property owners only. We cant work in tenant situations because we wouldnt be helping the tenant as much as we would be helping the landlord, said Caummisar.

Both the Grayson and Olive Hill branches of the Carter County Public Library have applications available for those who would like to be considered for assistance. The group also says it is in the process of developing an online presence, both on the web and in social media, so that applications can be taken online.

Joe Lewis is a freelance writer for The Journal-Times.

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Help with home improvements - Journal-Times

World Read Aloud Week celebration at Reynolds Elementary School in Upper Saddle River(Photo: Photo courtesy of Stefanie Slacin)

UPPER SADDLE RIVER Increased spendingforhealth benefits and special education are among the line items drivinga 2.15 percent tax hike in the school district's preliminary2017-2018 budget.

Under the proposed $24.2 million spending plan,employeebenefits spendingwill riseby about $500,000to $4.8 million, Business Administrator DanaImbascianisaid.

The costperpupilisalsoexpected to growto$18,156, an increase of $719 fromthecurrent schoolyear.

The K-8 district welcomed an additional 45 students this year, pushing the total student population to 1,236.A demographics study commissioned by the board projected the district will add144students over the next five years, due to housing construction in the borough.

The districthas alsobudgeted$330,000for its ongoingwindow replacement project at Reynolds Elementary andCavalliniMiddle School.

Upper Saddle River man suing over denied public-records request

Upper Saddle River BOE to present demographic study

If approved, the totalamount to be raised by taxesin the 2017-2018school yearwould be$21,798,681.The average homeowner with property assessed at $755,500wouldpay $7,628 in school taxes, up $117 fromthe 2016-2017 schoolyear, said Business Administrator DanaImbasciani.

Funding from state aid remained flat at $546,679 forthesecond year in a row.

The Board of Education will vote on adoption of the budget on May 1.

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Upper Saddle River BOE proposing 2.15 percent tax hike - NorthJersey.com

Chris Mooney and Juliet Eilperin The Washington Post

Environmental Protection Agency officials are proposing to eliminate two programs focused on limiting children's exposure to lead-based paint - which is known to cause damage to developing brains and nervous systems.

The proposed cuts, outlined in a 64 page budget memo revealed by The Washington Post on Friday, would roll back programs aimed at reducing lead risks by $16.61 million and more than 70 employees, in line with a broader project by the Trump administration to devolve responsibility for environmental and health protection to state and local governments.

Old housing stock is the biggest risk for lead exposure - and the EPA estimates that 38 million U.S. homes contain lead-based paint.

Environmental groups said the elimination of the two programs, which are focused on training workers in the safe removal of lead-based paint and public education about its risks, would make it harder for the EPA to address the environmental hazard.

One of the programs falling under the ax requires professional remodelers to undergo training in safe practices for stripping away old, lead-based paints from homes and other facilities.

The training program for remodelers was set up under a 2010 EPA regulation that aims to reduce exposure to toxic lead-paint chips and dust by requiring renovators to be certified in federally approved methods of containing and cleaning up work areas in homes constructed before 1978.

The rule applies to a broad range of renovations, including carpet removal and window replacement, in homes inhabited by pregnant women and young children.

Some operators in the home renovation industry have criticized the rule as too costly, noting that some customers simply opt to hire contractors who deliberately skirt the federal standards.

Lead is a potent neurotoxin, and particularly harmful to children and the elderly. Its many dangers in gasoline, paint, and drinking water have been scientifically documented over many decades, which has led to stronger regulatory protections.

In a 2014 report, the Centers for Disease Control found that 243,000 children had blood lead levels above the danger threshold - and that permanent neurological damage and behavior disorders had been associated at even lower levels of lead exposure.

"The most common risk factor is living in a housing unit built before 1978, the year when residential use of lead paint was banned in the United States," the CDC found.

EPA spokeswoman Julia Valentine said in an email that the two programs facing cuts are "mature," and that the goal of their elimination is to return "the responsibility for funding to state and local entities."

The Lead Risk Reduction Program, which would be cut by $2.56 million and 72.8 full-time equivalent employees, is charged with certifying renovators who work in buildings that may contain lead-based paint and upholding federal safety standards for such projects. Located in the agency's Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, the lead risk reduction program also helps educate Americans about how to minimize their exposure to lead in their homes.

The second cut, a much deeper $ 14.05 million, would zero out grants to state and tribal programs that also address lead-based paint risks.

"The basis for the EPA reduction is that states can do this work, but then we're going to take away the money we're going to give to states," said Jim Jones, who headed the EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, which administers the lead-based paint program, in the Obama years. "I think it's just one of many examples in that budget of the circular thinking there that just doesn't hold together."

But the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, which represents some of the industry's biggest players, welcomed the plan to abolish the two programs. The association's chief executive, Fred Ulreich said in a statement that the group "has long supported moving" the Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program "from EPA down to the individual states."

Fourteen states - Alabama, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin - currently run programs to train contractors how to properly handle renovations involving lead paint, according to the EPA's website. The rest rely on the federal government to provide training.

Ulreich said in his statement that his group "believes that the program can be better run and enforcement can be more vigorous the closer it is to the local contractors."

But Ulreich added that the group would object to states who seek to run a lead "abatement program." The group has successfully delayed a program in Maryland that goes further than the current federal requirements when it comes to lead paint removal.

Erik Olson, who directs the Natural Resources Defense Council's health program, said in an interview that the move leaves children in dozens of states unprotected.

"If the state doesn't have a program, which is true in most states, and if the EPA doesn't have a program, how are you going to have compliance with the lead rules?" Olson asked. "Basically, this is the guts of the program that protects kids from lead poisoning from paint."

State efforts to reduce lead risks have had mixed results. In 2004, New Jersey created the Lead Hazard Control Assistance Fund, which was supposed to provide loans and grants to homeowners and landlords to help them remove lead-based paint from aging housing stock. The program was supposed to be funded by sales tax revenue from cans of paint, which was expected to be $7 million to $14 million every year.

Instead, over the next dozen years the legislature and Democratic and Republican governors diverted more than $50 million from the fund toward payment of routine bills and salaries.

The EPA's Valentine said in an email that the agency is "working towards implementing the president's budget based on the framework provided by his blueprint" and "while many in Washington insist on greater spending, EPA is focused on greater value and real results."

"Administrator EPA in a more effective, more focused, less costly way as we partner with states to fulfill the agency's core mission," she added.

The cuts to the lead-paint programs would not directly affect EPA programs related to lead in drinking water, as in the case of Flint, Michigan. Those programs fall under the agency's Office of Water. But the EPA memo does propose reducing funding and staff for the agency's drinking water programs as well.

Changes to how the federal government addresses lead paint could affect hundreds of thousands of renovators, noted Remodeling magazine editor in chief Craig Webb.

The latest U.S. Census classified 78,000 firms as being in residential remodeling, with 278,921 employees. But since the 2010 rule also affects many siding, painting and wall covering contractors, as well as individual proprietors, the total number could be much higher.

The EPA announced in November 2016 that they had pursued more than 100 enforcement actions for lead-based paint hazards - much of those focused on the nation's largest companies.

In 2014, Lowe's home improvement chain agreed to pay $500,000 and create a compliance program across its 1,700 stores as part of a settlement agreement with the EPA.

Lowe's had "failed to provide documentation showing that the contractors it hires to perform renovation projects for Lowe's customers had been certified by EPA, had been properly trained, had used lead-safe work practices, or had correctly used EPA-approved lead test kits at renovation sites," the agency charged. (The company did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday.)

Later, Sears reached a similar settlement with the agency. Sears also declined to comment for this story.

The National Association of Home Builders has objected to EPA's regulation, charging that it is "an inefficient tool for achieving the environmental and health goals of the underlying statute and rule."

On Tuesday, association spokeswoman Elizabeth Thompson said in an email, "At this point, it is premature to comment until something official has been announced."

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Trump's EPA moves to defund programs that protect children from lead-based paint - Norwich Bulletin

It started with Jim, who was professional and incredibly knowledgeable at advising us on the right solutions as well as follow-up with signing the contract. Joanne was courteous and prompt in providing warranty information when we contacted the office. Randy was respectful, thorough, and transparent when he came to do the detailed measurements. The dream team of Claude, Nancy, and Alex completed the installation last week. I do not have enough vocabulary to properly praise Claude and family for the excellent work they did. They were diligent, respectful, punctual, and friendly. We were very impressed and thankful to have had Claude and family perform the install for us. The windows came out looking beautiful. We are anticipating our first winter after install to test out the energy efficiency that these new windows from Cossins will provide. We are still working out closing the doors properly as they currently require a bit of a push to click into place. If we sense this to be an ongoing issue, we will contact your office for suggestions on how to rectify.Thank you and kindest regards

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Replacement Windows and Doors in Calgary - Cossins Windows ...

If you are in need of professional window replacement services in the Birmingham, Alabama, area, youll want to make certain you hire an experienced and trustworthy technician for the job. In doing so, youll reduce the chance of running into problems or dealing with windows that were installed incorrectly. Additionally, it will be helpful to hire a company that also sells the premium windows you are looking for. This will prevent you from having to work with multiple companies for your window replacement project.

To hire skilled and reliable experts for your home improvement project, turn to the professionals at Durante Home Exteriors. We perform top-notch installations and offer high-end windows that are both aesthetically pleasing and long lasting, making them great investments for any homeowner in the Birmingham, AL, area. The window styles we offer include bay, bow, specialty, casement, sliding, awning, double hung, and more. No matter which style you choose, you will be able to enjoy the beauty, durability, and energy efficiency of your new windows.

Plus, you can feel good about turning to us for your window replacement services, as we:

If you would like to learn more about the window replacement services we offer to homeowners in the Birmingham, AL, area, contact Durante Home Exteriors today. One of our friendly and knowledgeable customer service representatives will be happy to answer any questions you have and can speak to you in detail about the wide variety of exceptional products and services we have available.

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Window Replacement Birmingham AL - durantewindows.com

Weather Tight is committed to offering only the highest quality in windows by using the Restorations Innovative Window System. Being the only company in Southeast Wisconsin that carries this exclusive brand, our windows are stronger, more durable, and more energy efficient that other companies. Weather Tight proudly sells energy efficient double hung windows, bow & bay windows, garden windows, sliding windows, full-frame windows and casement windows. We are committed to standing behind our windows, with a lifetime transferable warranty.

Weather Tight specializes in custom vinyl replacement windows. All of our windows are custom sized to fit any project. We dont stock standard size windows here in our warehouse and try to find the closest fit to what you need. We create a window to exactly fit the opening that the old window was in, or can even make the replacement window larger or smaller than your existing window.

There are also many options to pick and choose from as far as window and hardware color, glass, grid and casing. Our wood grain options give you the wood style you love without having to maintain the wood throughout the years. With our full frame installation option, you can have the energy efficiency of replacement windows with the look of original windows. This installation option maximizes your glass space without the chunky frame that is typically associated with replacement windows with the slim lined design. Our design consultant will stop by your home, free of charge, and help go through and make decisions regarding our over 50,000 window options.

This day in age, people are concerned with energy efficiency. Why would you want to replace your old drafty windows with new drafty windows? Our windows carry the highest rating for preventing draftiness and condensation on the market. We offer energy efficient triple pane glass options, expanding foam insulated mainframes and fiber core-reinforced stiles and rails that make our windows some of the most energy efficient on the market. Our windows are strategically designed to address common issues like mold, condensation, energy efficiency, rotting, etc.

We dont just sell windows here at Weather Tight. We also sell piece of mind. You do the windows the right way with us, and you never have to worry about them again. We have a phenomenal warranty that covers the parts and the installation for life.The warranty is not limited, which means it truly does last a lifetime. On top of that, warranty is transferable. So if you decide to move, the new homeowners can take advantage of the same great warranty that you had!

Whether you are looking for double hung, bay, bow, garden, sliding, or casement windows, our selection of colors and glass choices allow you to get the exact look and quality you want. So many homeowners want to maintain that great look of an original wood window, but fear the maintenance and energy loss associated with them. Up until now vinyl windows had not been designed to capture this great look,but with Restorations weve patented our window design, there is nothing else like it.Our double-contoured, narrow-line exterior mainframe provides a striking accent to your home and our mortised locks and wood-style cove trim around the glass create an overall effect of unmistakable elegance. All this helps to provide more visible glass as our window design offers up to a 27% more viewing area than other replacement windows.

Still not convinced that Weather Tight windows will help save you money? Well the truth is clear as day, in our glass that is. Competitive window brands generally only utilize single layer Low-E coating structures. Our Restorations Windows Insulated Glass Systems incorporate multiple layers of heat reflective metallic coatings into our panes of glass, this helps to keep the heat in during the cold winter months and the heat out during the warm summer months.

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Weather Tight Windows | Milwaukee, WI Replacement Windows ...

Vinyl replacement window

Vinyl replacement windows come mounted in a new jamb, and are simply tilted into the old frame and fastened in place.

Top frame cutaway. The inside stop molding helps hold the new window in place.

Vinyl trim and caulk seal the gap at the bottom of the new window. The window fits against the existing stool on the inside.

Installing replacement windows looks complicated, but actually requires only basic tools and skilldespite the high prices charged by some window replacement companies.

However, before deciding to tackle the job yourself, check the condition of your existing window frames. If theyre rotten or badly out of square, the whole unit, including the frame, may need replacing. This is a much bigger and more complicated job than installing a vinyl window insert and may require a pro.

If the frames are sound, the next step is to measure the interior width and height of each window frame side to side and top to sill. Double-check these measurements to ensure their accuracy so you don't end up with a window that doesn't fit. In most cases, the old frame dimensions will match a standard- size vinyl window.

Use these measurements to order the windows from a lumberyard or home center. The price will vary depending on the manufacturer and the features you request. Order windows with insulated glass (two layers). Then consider whether to copy the style (single or multiple glass panes) of the old windows or to change it.

The windows install from the inside. Give yourself at least half a day to install the first unit. Once you've learned the steps, the second installation will go much faster.

Here's a summary of the steps:

Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you startyoull save time and frustration.

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here's a list.

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How to Install Vinyl Replacement Windows

COTTONWOOD Three of Cottonwood-Oak Creeks schools will see improvements this summer in the last phase of the districts Capital Bond projects.

Thanks to the $15 million Capital Bond approved three years ago by the communitys voters, parking lot work at Dr. Daniel Bright, Mountain View Preparatory and Oak Creek schools, as well as drainage and surface work throughout the district will be started and completed this summer.

On Haydon Corporations summer agenda are a redesign of the parking lot at Dr. Daniel Bright School, as well as a separation of bus lanes from the parent pickup and drop-off lanes at Oak Creek School and Mountain View Preparatory.

The redesign of the parking lot at Dr. Daniel Bright School will include moving the parent pickup and drop-off lanes from beside the bus lanes to up on the hill, and keeping the bus lanes below.

Haydon Corporation will also construct a new stairway and wheelchair ramp expected to improve student- and parent-access to the schools front entrance.

New asphalt will also be added at the three schools after construction is completed. Also, the walking track at both Cottonwood Elementary and Cottonwood Middle schools will be repaired and resurfaced.

Other Capital Bond work at COCSD this summer includes window replacement in the 500 and 800 buildings at Cottonwood Middle School, remodeling the front office at Cottonwood Middle School, as well as work in several of the bathrooms throughout the district.

The district will replace fire alarm systems at Cottonwood Elementary, Cottonwood Middle and Oak Creek schools, as well as at the District Office, also known as the Clemenceau Building. Cottonwood-Oak Creek will also contract to upgrade some of the oldest carpet in classrooms at CES, CMS and OCS.

The cost of these projects is expected to use most of the remaining bond funds, according to COCSD.

Though the district has another seven years to spend the remaining bond funds.

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Cottonwood-Oak Creek prepares for summer Capital Bond projects - Verde Independent

THE MAYOR'S UPDATEVolunteers make many things possible in Kiel Tri-County News The renovations will include interior painting of the rooms, new carpeting of the living room and porch areas, window treatments, new furniture and interior dcor upgrades. Exterior upgrades will include window repair and paint, door replacements, deck ...

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THE MAYOR'S UPDATEVolunteers make many things possible in Kiel - Tri-County News

Patch.com

Mayor Announces $9 Million to Go to School Repairs Patch.com In 2016, Mayor Walsh invested $25.1 million for door and window replacement at seven schools, which leveraged nearly $16.4 million in MSBA accelerated Repair Funds. This project will allow for nearly 3,000 windows to be replaced at these schools by the ...

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Mayor Announces $9 Million to Go to School Repairs - Patch.com