Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

In the early 1960s, as the city embarked on various capital improvement projects, it sought ways to both activate its riverfront and generate tourist activity.

An opportunity to do both came in the form of a land donation from the Southside Business Mens Club, providing the city with over a dozen acres of riverfront property right next to the Main Street Bridge. Local architect Taylor Hardwick, who would also design the citys new library building, formed a plan for a park on the property centered around a 200-foot-wide fountain.

By March 1965, after $1.75 million in construction, what was dubbed the Dallas Thomas Park and Marina made its debut to the public. The Fountain of Friendship, as city brochures referred to it, featured colored lights and was capable of ejecting 17,000 gallons of water each minute to a height of up to 120 feet. It was engineered to reduce its stream based on wind speed to avoid splashing park visitors.

Other features included circular covered pavilions, Midcentury Modern-inspired toadstool seating, and an open grass field that paralleled the fountain basin.

The park was initially named in honor of city commissioner Dallas Thomas. His name was dropped from the park after being indicted as part of the citys mid-60s corruption scandals. Its now commonly referred to as either St. Johns River Park or Friendship Park.

The park was a hit with tourists, who came to see what the city billed as the worlds tallest fountain.

By the end of the 60s, Jacksonville Childrens Museum had popped up next to the parks pumphouse, providing another riverfront amenity for the city.

In the 1980s, the city looked to further activate the riverfront. Inspired by San Antonios Riverwalk, work began on a similar project along the Southbank, and by 1985, the Southbank Riverwalk made its debut. Friendship Fountain was also refurbished that same year.

The Riverwalk was a big hit, at least initially, but major changes were soon to come at the park.

When the city began work on replacing the original Acosta Bridge, it had to demolish the existing Diamondhead Lobster House restaurant that stood in its way. The owners of the restaurant, which was a descendant of the original Lobster House that burned down in the 60s, were offered a significant portion of St. Johns River Parks property for development of a new restaurant called Harbormasters.

The new restaurant was constructed and opened in the late 80s, effectively cutting the park surrounding Friendship Fountain in half. But the restaurants owners later defaulted on their loan, resulting in a $2.9 million loss for the city and the restaurants permanent closure in 1992. River City Brewing Company moved in a year later, but the damage to Hardwicks original vision for the park was permanent.

By the turn of the century, the water pumps that powered Friendship Fountain were showing signs of irreversible damage. A rehabilitation project in 2001 managed to keep the fountain alive, for the most part, through Jacksonvilles stint as a Super Bowl host city. But shortly thereafter, two of the fountains three water pumps stopped working permanently. With replacement parts to repair the original pumps unavailable, the fountain limped along for the rest of the decade with just one functioning pump.

In 2010, the city embarked on a $3.1 million project to replace the old pumps with new ones. The project, a collaboration between JBC Planning & Engineering, Flagg Design Studio, M.V. Cummings Engineers, TLC Engineering and Architecture, and AC General, also involved replacing the fountains electrical system, removing broken concrete in the park, and adding new seating and lighting.

The park reopened in June 2011 and has remained unchanged since.

However, big things are in store for the parks future. A $6 million renovation project will soon reimagine Friendship Fountain as a water cinema, with new pumps, lighting, and sound systems allowing for coordinated light-and-sound shows displayed onto the water rising from the fountains basin. Those renovations are expected to be completed sometime next year.

The properties surrounding the park could soon look quite different as well. MOSH is in the process of raising funds for an expansion project that would add a new entranceway and caf facing the park. And a developer is eyeing the River City Brewing Company property for redevelopment as an apartment complex, which could potentially free up land to expand the park. If everything works out as planned, Friendship Fountain could once again become an innovative riverfront focal point something that the city desperately needs.

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A Brief History of Friendship Fountain and St. Johns River Park - The Coastal

Edd Pritchard|The Repository

CANTON Another sports-related anchorhas signed on to be part of the retail district planned forHall of Fame Village powered by Johnson Controls.

Topgolf Entertainment Group plans to have a Topgolf Swing Suites be part of the retail promenade, according to an announcement by Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment, the company developing the village.

It was the second major announcement from Hall of Fame Resort this week.The company also revealed that Shula's Restaurant Group will be part of the retail center.

Hall of Fame Village powered by Johnson Controls is a development that will wrap around the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

The retail promenade is part of the second phase of construction. Other parts of the project estimated to cost nearly $300 million includea 180-room hotel, football-themed water park and office buildings. A third phase, also estimated at $300 million, could include residential development, along with more retail and attractions.

Adding Shula's and Topgolfis part of an effort to create a destination entertainment center with the Pro Football Hall of Fame as the focal point, said Michael Crawford, president and chief executive officer of Hall of Fame Resort.

The project is turning Canton into a preferred location for flagship brands, Crawford said in anewsrelease announcing Topgolf.

Much like our company, Topgolf is all about generating excitement and bringing sports fans together through an immersive and interactive experience, Crawford said.

Topgolf Swing Suite is one of several sports entertainment options offered by Topgolf Entertainment. Technology developed by Full SwingGolf allows guests to play golf and other simulated sports on massive television screens indoors.

Swing Suite has locationsin 28 states and four countries. Guests can play a variety of games tied to golf, including rounds simulated at some of the world's leading courses. Zombie Dodgeball is a favorite game the company has developed, and there are games tied to baseball, hockey, soccer and most important football.

Fans can play the virtual games or use the screens to watch a favorite sports teamin real time in a lounge seating setting, with hand-crafted cocktails and a full-service menu available.

Topgolf has golfing sites in suburban Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati, but no Swing Suite locations.

Ron Powers, president of Topgolf Swing Suite, said the company believes it is the "perfect complement" to plans for creating asportsdestination.

We areveryproud to partner with the Hall of Fame Village andto have our virtual game technology entertainthe loyal fans visiting this prominent and exciting destination, Powers said in the release.

Hall of Fame Resort officials hope construction for the 82,000-square-foot retail promenade block will begin this year. Plans are for the structure to sit between the Constellation Center for Excellence already under construction west of Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium and the hotel, which will be near Fulton Drive NW.

The building will provide rooftop views of the stadium. Developers believe it will serve as an active hub in the village and a spot fans might visit before and after events.

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Topgolf will have a spot in the Hall of Fame Village retail promenade - Canton Repository

Setting term limits for the justices on the Supreme Court is a much better way to respond to the expected confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett than packing the court. Many who recommend term limits suggest that each term should last eighteen years. Justices terms would be staggered so that there would an equal number of openings during each presidential term. Such a plan would reduce the role of fortune in determining how many justices a president nominates, and the political parties would no longer be tempted to resort to all-out war every time a justice leaves the court, as their departures would be mandated and fairly distributed.

Term limits would also eliminate the incentive for presidents to pick young and relatively inexperienced judges just to try to prolong their time on the high court. And leaders from both parties could tell their voters that they have ensured that the other side will never again get a lifetime appointment, as stated in a Washington Post editorial. Steven G. Calabresi, a law professor at Northwestern, adds, In the case of early retirements or deaths, the president would nominate and the Senate would conrm a replacement to ll out the unexpired term with no possibility of reappointment.

When the founders were debating the Constitution and seeking to create an independent judiciary, they determined that lifetime appointments would be beneficial, helping to protect both judges and the Constitution from political influence that might undermine them. But many now believe that the pendulum swung too far the other way, with a high court too reflective of past political fights and thus unresponsive to contemporary realities, as Ilya Shapiro, Director of the Robert A. Levy Center for Constitutional Studies at the Cato Institute, wrote in the Atlantic.

The main shortcoming of the often-suggested implementation of term limits is that it will leave the current court in place, possibly for a decade or more, because the currently sitting justices would retain their lifetime appointments. This would leave in place a court many believe includes a justice who was appointed in an illegitimate way, who is expected to vote to undo health care rights (by demolishing Obamacare) and womens rights (by overturning Roe v. Wade), as well as play a key role in tilting the results of future elections in favor of Republicans.

For this reason, some advocate for packing the court. However, packing the court will make it difficult for the court to function smoothly. Imagine consensus building with fifteen members. If the Supreme Court would have different judges ruling on different matters, that would create a lot of tension in terms of what is assigned to which panel of justices. And the GOP may well come back in the future and pack or repack the court some more, turning its composition into even more of a political arena than it now is.

The way out of these difficulties is to make the terms limits retroactive. Such a law would immediately end the term of one liberal justice, Stephen Breyer, who was appointed in 1994, and a conservative justice, Clarence Thomas, who was appointed in 1991. This would allow President Joe Biden to appoint two liberal judges, which would still leave a conservative majority, but of the kind we have had recently, with a five to four makeup, rather than the six to three configuration that Coney Barretts confirmation is expected to cement. Chief Justice John Roberts could continue to provide glimpses of some kind of political balance by occasionally siding with the liberals.

One may argue that there is a strong norm against introducing laws that take effect retroactively. However, given the extremely unfair way the Republicans blocked the nomination of Merrick Garland and the way they are rushing through the appointment of Amy Coney Barrett, this seems merely to balance the books.

Beyond the number, there is a voice issue. The death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg left the Supreme Court not merely short of one liberal vote but also deprived of a powerful justice and persona. No one has ever charged Justice Breyer with these qualities. Hence, if Biden is able to replace him, he could appoint a liberal with a strong voice, so that liberal Americans feel that at least they have been heard, even in cases in which their views still will not be heeded.

Amitai Etzioniis a University Professor and professor of international affairs at The George Washington University. His latest book,Reclaiming Patriotism, was published by the University of Virginia Press in 2019 and is available fordownload without charge.

Image: Reuters.

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Forget Court Packing: Only Term Limits Can Save The Supreme Court - The National Interest

Is this the year you finally redo the bathroom? This checklist and guide will help you plan a successful bathroom remodel that will add comfort and value to your Wisconsin home.

Whether you're just adding a new coat of paint or updating the entire design with a new vanity and tub, a bathroom remodel is an exciting home project. To avoid costly mistakes, it's important that you stay organized and on track from start to finish. Use this checklist to help you make smart choices and ensure that your bathroom renovation goes as planned.

1. Design and Plan

Once you've made the decision to remodel your bathroom, you'll need a solid idea and plan for the design. Without a clear picture of what you want your bathroom to look like when the renovation is complete, you may run into mistakes that cost you money and time. A good design plan ensures that the contractor you hire knows exactly what you want and can work within your budget and schedule to complete the remodel.

For ideas and inspiration for your new bathroom, look at home improvement magazines and online for the latest design trends. You'll also want to get swatches from your local paint store to help you finalize the color scheme. Don't forget to take functionality into consideration as well. Take the time to choose a toilet, tub, and fixtures that are both appealing and practical for your needs.

2. Build a Contractor List

Depending on what changes you're making, bathroom renovations can be complex. Don't make the mistake of thinking your bathroom remodel is a DIY project. The last thing you want is to put you and your family at risk when renos aren't done correctly. It's best to hire qualified contractors who have the expertise and skills to do the job right the first time. Make a list of the contractors your remodel will require, such as electrical, plumbing, and tiling.

When you're ready to hire, look for local contractors in your area and get recommendations from family and friends for a qualified professional. Before hiring, contact each specialized contractor on your list to compare estimates.

3. Be in the Know About Permits

You won't need a permit for smaller bathroom makeovers if you're just adding a new coat of paint or retiling the shower. For larger bathroom remodels, check to see what permits you'll need if you're making electrical, plumbing, or structural changes.

Once you know what permits are required, you'll be able to get them at your local government office. Keep in mind that as an extra safety precaution, some local government regulations require that any electrical work be independently inspected and certified.

4. Create a Budget

How much do you want to spend on your bathroom remodel? Setting a budget will help you decide all the details of your renovation and keep you from spending more than you planned.

Include these points when creating a budget:

You may also want to factor in any loss of income if you need to take a day or two off work to be at home to complete the remodel.

5. Financing Your Bathroom Reno

If you need financing for your bathroom remodel, consider going to a local bank for a loan. To be prepared for any unexpected costs, apply for financing that's 20 percent more than your estimated budget.

Is it time to update and redesign your bathroom? Call a HomeAdvisor bathroom remodeler in Wisconsin.

This Patch article is sponsored by HomeAdvisor.

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Wisconsin Homeowners: Renovation Guide To Remodeling The Bathroom - Patch.com

AdventHealthhas broken ground on an innovative health care complex that will bring much-needed medical services to Clermont and south Lake County.

Located adjacent to the intersection of State Road 50 and Citrus Tower Boulevard, the complex includes an emergency room and health park, which brings primary and specialty care, and several other services under one roof to provide a seamless experience for the patient.

Were excited about the health park concept because its a new way to deliver care, which is designed around the consumers needs. We believe this is the future of medicine, said Brad Hillmon, vice president of ambulatory services for the AdventHealth Central Florida Division. As the Clermont area continues to grow, its important that residents have access to world-class physicians and services, and were honored to bring this care closer to home.

The Clermont health park will be the second AdventHealth has opened; the first, located in Kissimmee, opened in August.

The two-story, 36,000-square-foot Clermont health park will include a range of primary and specialty care practices, including imaging, physical therapy, lab services, a sleep lab, cardiology, gastroenterology, urology/UroGYN and orthopedics.

The health park will offer same-day appointments, expanded 7 a.m.-7 p.m. hours for patient convenience, and specially trained staff providing concierge-level service. The health park will give consumers a seamless experience, with a single check-in and a single bill for all services. In addition, all forms, registration and appointment scheduling can be completed online from home, or at an on-site kiosk, for a completely paperless experience which is especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic.

These new services will meet a significant need in Clermont, which has seen a shortage of physicians in nearly every specialty, including primary care, cardiology, pediatrics, gastroenterology, oncology, obstetrics and gynecology.

The ER will be approximately 19,000 square feet, with 24 patient rooms (including two pediatric-friendly rooms); respiratory therapy; diagnostic imaging, including CT scans, X-ray and ultrasound; and a full-service laboratory. The ER will be staffed by a comprehensive clinical team including board-certified emergency physicians and emergency nurses.

We are thrilled to offer whole person care to this thriving Clermont community, said Abel Biri, president and CEO of AdventHealth Waterman, who is also overseeing the Clermont ER project. Once complete, this ER and health park will modernize and expand the same world-class care AdventHealth has been providing in Central Florida, for over 100 years.

The architect on the ER is HuntonBrady, and the contractor is Robins and Morton. Architect for the health park is Little Diversified Architectural Consulting, and the contractor is Austin Commercial.

The ER and health park are expected to open in October 2021.

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AdventHealth Breaks Ground on ER, Health Park to Serve Fast-Growing Clermont Area - Clermont Report

Alpen High Performance Products announces field test of new cost-effective, energy efficient WinSert secondary interior window inserts for commercial buildings through Memorandum of Understanding with Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance.

LOUISVILLE, Colo. (PRWEB) October 08, 2020

ALPEN HIGH PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, developer of commercial and residential ultra-high performance window technology, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA, an alliance of 140 utilities and energy efficiency organizations) to field test Alpen's new cost-effective, energy efficient WinSert secondary interior window inserts for use in commercial buildings.

At a median age of almost 40 years old, buildings account for nearly 30% of U.S. energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. To develop effective, new, large scale energy saving strategies for commercial buildings, NEEA, in partnership with a group of local utilities, will field test the performance of state-of-the-art window upgrades at commercial buildings in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana.

"Alpen is encouraged by the work NEEA is doing to both promote the use of this new generation of secondary interior window inserts, and monitor and measure the results stemming from their installation," said Brad Begin, CEO of Alpen High Performance Products. "We feel this will provide credible feedback for the broader consumer concerning the great value and payback of these products to help address the biggest challenge and opportunity we have in the urgent climate change battlethe massive inventory of existing buildings with poor performing building shells already spilling energy unnecessarily. That's 98% of the problem in the current built environment."

Alpen is one of only five manufacturers to be selected for these commercial window upgrade tests, and was invited after publication of a DOE analysis of Alpen's thin glass technology--which is featured in its WinSert secondary interior window glazing systems. Previous third-party validation of the company's product also demonstrated more than a 50% improvement to the energy efficiency of existing windows at a fraction of the cost of a full window replacement. WinSert attaches to the interior of an existing window, resulting in improved occupant comfort, reduced noise and air leakage, and lower heating and cooling energy use. Alpen's secondary window can be installed year-round with no large tools, in as little as 20 minutes and often after business hours to avoid tenant disruption or relocation.

"We've been innovating super-insulating windows for more than thirty years, so these secondary inserts are a natural extension of all our ongoing advancements," Begin said. "NEEA's field-testing is truly a rubber meets the road' situation, and everyone here at Alpen appreciates this opportunity to demonstrate just how much money and energy building owners could save with WinSert."

About NEEA

The Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) is an alliance of 140 Northwest utilities and energy efficiency organizations working on behalf of more than 13 million energy consumers. NEEA leverages its strong regional partnerships to effect market transformation by accelerating the adoption of energy-efficient products, services and practices. Since 1997, NEEA and its partners including Avista Utilities, Bonneville Power Administration, Chelan County PUD, Clark Public Utilities, Cowlitz PUD, Eugene Water & Electric Board, Energy Trust of Oregon, Idaho Power, NorthWestern Energy, Pacific Power, Puget Sound Energy, Seattle City Light, Snohomish County Public Utilities, and Tacoma Power have saved enough energy to power more than 600,000 homes each year. Energy efficiency can offset most of our new demand for energy, saving money and keeping the Northwest a healthy and vibrant place to live.

NEEA Website

About ALPEN HIGH PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS

Alpen HPP manufactures super-insulating, thermally efficient residential and commercial windows and architectural glass utilizing nearly four decades of award-winning experience. The exceptional thermal performance of our window and glazing solutions grants the freedom to design with maximum glass across all building types and climate zones. Alpen HPP products provide a powerful combination of blocking summer heat, retaining winter warmth, eliminating harmful ultraviolet rays, reducing noise and maximizing natural daylight while providing exceptional energy savings. We have successfully coupled our thin glass window expertise with continued development of WinSert, our high performance thin glass interior window inserts, to further advance the commercial secondary window market.

Alpen HPP Website

For the original version on PRWeb visit: https://www.prweb.com/releases/towards_a_more_sustainable_northwest_alpen_high_performance_products_developing_energy_efficient_construction_alternatives_with_an_alliance_of_140_utilities/prweb17451745.htm

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Towards a More Sustainable Northwest: ALPEN HIGH PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS Developing Energy Efficient Construction Alternatives with an Alliance of 140...

Teresa Stepzinski|Florida Times-Union

A new 75-bed hospital at the heart of a new health and wellness campus in Durbin Park is one step closer to construction.

GATE Lands, a subsidiary of GATE Petroleum Company, recently sold 45 acres within itsDurbin Park development in northern St. Johns County to Flagler Health+ at an undisclosed price. Flagler Health+ is an extension of Flagler Hospital in St. Augustine.

We are thrilled to finalize our partnership with Flagler Health+ and begin work on Phase II of our development,Drew Frick, president of GATE Lands, said in a news release.

Frick also said the medical campus "is a strong anchor for the next phase of the development" at Durbin Park,located between Interstate 95 and State Road 9B.

"And [it] perfectly aligns with our vision for Durbin Park as a distinct destination where individuals and families can live, work, shop, and be entertained, Frick said.

More: Durbin Park: What stores, restaurants are now open, coming soon

Stellar, a Jacksonville-based construction company, is the design-builder for the estimated $150 million project. The company is partnering with architectural firm Gresham Smith, also of Jacksonville,on the five-year project.The projected completion is 2025, according to Stellar.

Stellar previously completed similar projects forFlagler Health+, includingtwo Health Villages one each at Murabella and Nocatee said Richard Lovelace, senior vice president ofCommercial Services at Stellar, in anews release.

TheFlagler Health+campus at Durbin Park is intended to bringa new concept in health care and well-being to Northeast Florida. The project calls for a full suite of consumer-centric outpatient services, green space, community health offeringsand an inpatient hospital.

The new hospital is anticipated to be one of the first initiatives resulting from a proposed collaboration between UF Health and Flagler Health+, which was announced in May.

To support Phase II of its Durbin Park development, GATE recently broke ground on a $40 million master infrastructure plan.

The plan focuses onthe creation of Flagler Health Wayto serve the health campus and East Peyton Parkwaya six-lane road that will open access to approximately 500 acres of future mixed-use development.

Phase I of the development included creatingThe Pavilion at Durbin Park an 80-acre commercial development. The Pavilion is a joint venture partnership between GATE Petroleum andGatlin Development Company.

The Pavilion at Durbin Park, located atRacetrack Roadand Bartram Park Boulevard, encompasses650,000-square feet of commercial space and features a wide variety of retail stores, restaurants, and a state-of-the-art Cinemark movie theater.

Almost 40 retail stores, restaurants, and other businessesare open or have committed to locating in The Pavilion at Durbin Park. Among them are Walmart, Home Depot, Burlington,Baptist Health Primary Care,Bonchon, Firehouse Subs, andKazu Sushi.

Eden Sutherland, manager of Gate Marketing and Communications, said currently they only are announcing Flagler Health+ and Bass Pro Shops as Phase II tenants.

"COVID-19 has undoubtedly been a speedbump this year for retailers and their ability to move forward on new projects," Sutherland told the TImes-Union. "We continue to have exciting and robust conversations with residential and commercial developers and look forward to being able to share more soon."

No construction timeline has been announced for the Durbin Park store.

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Durbin Park set to expand with Flagler Health+ 75-bed hospital, wellness campus - The Florida Times-Union

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Union Bank Plaza (UBP), a 701,888 square-foot, 40-story, office tower and retail plaza is redefining the Downtown Los Angeles skyline. The property was recently designated the first skyscraper in Los Angeles to become a historical landmark nominated by the esteemed Los Angeles Conservancy. At the same time, the office tower is undergoing a $20 million renovation while preserving its historic charm. UBP is owned by KBS Real Estate Investment Trust II.

Built in 1967, the office tower has been an iconic part of the Downtown Los Angeles skyline for over 50 years, according to Giovanni (Gio) Cordoves, regional president, western region for KBS.

The repositioning project provided the opportunity for Union Bank Plaza to be seen in a new light while still maintaining the historic characteristics that make it so unique, explains Cordoves. We made several upgrades to the property that are aligned with the needs of todays tenants and completely preserved the historic original shell of the building as well as the outdoor plaza.

The historic building was collaboratively designed by New York-based architectural firm Harrison & Abramovitz and Los Angeles-based firm A.C. Martin & Associates in the Corporate International architectural style. The Modernist-style outdoor plaza was designed by famed landscape architect Garrett Eckbo, one of the pioneers of this type of landscape design. In phase I, KBS completed a variety of interior and exterior renovations to the property high-level finishes in the buildings conference center; and a best-in-class lobby. In phase II, KBS will include an entirely reimagined two-story retail level and a spacious, modern outdoor seating area with fire pits which is scheduled to be completed in April 2021. The architecture, interior design and landscape design services for the property's repositioning were provided by HLW International LLP.

UBP is a one-of-a-kind property that spans a full city block and exudes the charm and rich history of 1960s architecture, which makes it a true landmark for Downtown Los Angeles, explains Tim Helgeson, senior vice president for KBS and asset manager for UBP. As Los Angelenos begin thinking about returning to the office, UBP offers them a building of classic design with all the modern touches and amenities that todays top tenants demand.

As part of its renovations, KBS also implemented a progressive spec suite program at the property in which it built out tenant suites without a committed tenant. This program kicked off with eight suites totaling more than 21,000 square feet, all of which were prelease prior to completion. The second phase is under way and includes 12 new spec suites totaling over 33,000 SF. We have also just completed the design of a full floor law firm layout spec suite and will be commencing construction on this 18,200 SF spec suite shortly. These suites are extremely high-quality and designed with downtown Los Angeles live-work-play tenants in mind, according to Helgeson. The new environment adds modern outdoor elements to support the outstanding restaurant options available to those working in the building and the surrounding neighborhood.

The newly added features and spec suite program further UBPs reputation as one of the most desirable office buildings in the Downtown Los Angeles market, says Helgeson. The completion of this repositioning for such a distinctive property matches well with KBS strategy of providing first-in-class environments for tenants at all of the assets in which we invest.

Union Bank Plaza is the perfect mix of old and new, says Mark Zwagerman, principal and managing director at HLW's Los Angeles office, who oversaw the extensive renovations. The completed design truly reimagines the amenity spaces and enhances the overall tenant experience. We could not be prouder to be a part of a project that reestablished the property as a Class A asset in Bunker Hills core and the collaborative effort by all parties involved to celebrate its history.

Harnessing the distinguishing features of the modernist era from which Union Bank Plaza hails, HLW created a timeless design approach which takes cues from the classic beauty of the building's original design. Working closely alongside KBS, HLW refreshed the entry lobby's arrival experience and conferencing center with new interpretations of classic materials such as creamy Carrara marble, rich walnut wood and matte brass architectural accents. The resulting scheme establishes a contemporary sense of place in the building's history with a clean, detailed and honest aesthetic.

UBP is located at 445 S. Figueroa Street in Los Angeles, California, connecting the Bunker Hill business district with the burgeoning Figueroa Corridor and offering access to both phenomenal entertainment and key transportation routes.

According to Adrian Scott Fine at the Los Angeles Conservancy, Union Bank Plaza is a significant historical and cultural monument for Downtown Los Angeles. Its architecture, especially the outdoor plaza, is extremely unique and was one of the first buildings to be completed as part of the Bunker Hill Urban Renewal project, marking a new era in how the downtown was redeveloped. We are thrilled to see this building become a landmark and for the continued support from KBS who worked closely with us throughout the entire nomination process.

KBS engaged Swinerton Builders to lead construction efforts. Renderings, floor plans, virtual tours and more can be found on the buildings newly launched interactive site: http://www.ubpdtla.com/.

KBS has created an entirely new vibe at UBP, said Justin Collins, executive director for Cushman & Wakefield and leasing agent for the building. With a new garden retail setting, a park-like experience on the plaza level including a variety of seating areas surrounded by new landscaping, fire pits, an indoor/outdoor conference center and a stunning new lobby, UBP is one of the most attractive and flexible work spaces in the Downtown Los Angeles marketplace.

Brokerage professionals Justin Collins, Pete Collins, and Brittany Winn from Cushman & Wakefield serve as exclusive office leasing agents for UBP.

For more information on the historical landmark designation, visit: https://www.laconservancy.org/locations/union-bank-square. To see the newly transformed photos, visit: here for pre-renovation photos, visit: here and for more information, visit http://www.ubpdtla.com.

About KBS

KBS is one of the largest investors of premier commercial real estate in the nation. As a private equity real estate company and an SEC-registered investment adviser, KBS and its affiliated companies have completed transactional activity of over $42 billion on behalf of private and institutional investors globally. Founded in 1992 by Peter Bren and Chuck Schreiber, KBS acquires and operates prime commercial real estate in some of the most successful epicenters in the country. The firm is committed in its business ethics, its business relationships and its constant focus on exceeding the expectations of its investors, partners and tenants. SEC registration as an investment advisor does not imply any particular level of skill or training. For more information on KBS, please visit: http://www.kbs.com.

About HLW

HLW is a leading international full-service planning, architecture, and design firm that is building the future from skyscrapers, to the workplaces of todays most cutting-edge companies. Sustaining a successful practice for over 130 years, HLW remains a strong, innovative, and progressive organization with a diverse portfolio of projects from broadcast and media, financial corporations, technology, academic institutions, and multi-family and mixed-use buildings. The firm's mission is to question the norm, design with passion, and build what's next. HLW is headquartered in New York City, with offices in Madison, NJ, Los Angeles, CA, Stamford, CT, and London. http://www.hlw.com

This release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements relating to KBS Real Estate Investment Trust IIs ability to invest in and manage a diverse portfolio, and the performance of Union Bank Plaza and of the Los Angeles, California real estate market. These statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause KBS Real Estate Investment Trust IIs and/or Union Bank Plazas actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

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Union Bank Plaza Designated First Skyscraper in Los Angeles as a Historic Landmark; KBS Completes Phase I of a $20 Million Repositioning and Historic...

SMi Group Reports: The 22nd Annual Global MilSatCom Virtual Conference and Exhibition will feature a series of briefings dedicated to Skynet 6, presented by the UK MoD and UK STRATCOM.

This conference is free to attend for all active military and government and registration can be made by visiting: http://ww.globalmilsatcom.com/PR6

Skynet 5s PFI is set to end in 2022, and so the Skynet 6 programme aims to provide a game-changing SATCOM solution to UK military personnel while remaining international by design to ensure allied interoperability and collaboration.

As Skynet 6 is such a pivotal and timely topic for the MilSatCom industry, Global MilSatCom will enable attendees to hear the breaking news on the Skynet 6 programme, with exclusive announcements, a dedicated panel discussion on future requirements, and updates on the very latest developments from the programmes management team.

The conference will open on day one with a keynote address from Air Vice Marshal Harvey Smyth, Director Space, UK MoD, and will be followed by two dedicated Skynet 6 presentations, which will explore the future of the UKs Skynet 6 programme and competition:

1) Roadmap for Skynet: Requirements and Development Commanding heights view of the programme - from the SKYNET 5 PFI to SKYNET 6EC Considerations for the future space operating environment, space as congested and contested SKYNETs ecosystem: exploring the use of HAPS and allied partnerships Key requirements for SKYNET 6 availability, coverage, flexibility and interoperability The long view how SKYNET 6 will shape SKYNET 7Presented by Captain David Moody, Deputy Head, Space, UK STRATCOM

2) The UKs MilSatCom Programme: A Primer Current capabilities offered by SKYNET 5: core services and commercial offerings in C, Ku and Ka bands SKYNET 6 timelines for the SDW stop gap and 6EC BLOS solution provision International by design: ensuring SKYNETs architectural ecosystem supports interoperability and collaborative allied operations Sovereign, shared and commercial delivering the right balance of capability for the UK Competition timelines for the SDW and 6ECPresented by Wing Commander David Black, Skynet 6EC Project Manager, ISS, UK MoD

Throughout the three-day event, attendees will also be able to network and hold meetings with Skynets programme managers and key stakeholders on SMis virtual conference platform. In this time of global disruption, there is no better place to be for SATCOM professionals who are interested in doing business with the UK MOD.

The full speaker line-up and three-day agenda for Global MilSatCom can be viewed online at: http://ww.globalmilsatcom.com/PR6

SMi Groups 22nd Annual Global MilSatCom10th 12th November 2020Virtual Conference & Exhibition: Online Access Onlyhttp://ww.globalmilsatcom.com/PR6

Gold Sponsor: AirbusSponsors: Boeing I GovSat I Inmarsat I Isotropic Systems I Leonardo DRS I Lockheed Martin I Northrop Grumman I Ovzon I ST Engineering iDirect I Thales Communications I ViasatExhibitors: Hytec Inter I Marlink SAS

For press enquiries, please contact Simi Sapal on +44 (0) 20 7827 6162 or ssapal@smi-online.co.uk

For sponsorship and exhibition enquiries, contact Alia Malick on +44 (0) 207 827 6168 or amalick@smi-online.co.uk

About SMi Group: Established since 1993, SMi Group is a global event-production company that specializes in Business-to-Business Conferences, Workshops, Masterclasses and online Communities. We create and deliver events in the Defence, Security, Energy, Utilities, Finance and Pharmaceutical industries. We pride ourselves on having access to the world's most forward-thinking opinion leaders and visionaries, allowing us to bring our communities together to Learn, Engage, Share and Network. More information can be found at http://www.smi-online.co.uk

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Hear Exclusive Insights on Skynet 6 at SMi Group's 22nd Annual Global MilSatCom - PR.com

Independent seeks readers military service stories, photos

The Verde Independent wants to share with readers the stories of local residents service in the U.S. military in a special section.

The section will be published in November in observance of Veterans Day.

Men and women who served in the U.S. armed forces may submit the history of their service, as well as photos, to bhelm@verdenews.com by Friday, Oct. 30.

Veterans may also bring their information to the Verde Independent, 116 S. Main St., Cottonwood.

All veterans who live in Yavapai County are welcome to participate in this salute to Veterans edition.

Submissions must include the veterans full name, city or town of residence, dates of service in the U.S. military, branch of service, military rank, medals and commendations, and contact information for editorial purposes only should there be questions.

For more information, call Bill Helm at 928-634-2241 ext. 6102.

Oak Creek Apples meet virtually, Oct. 17

Because the Sedona Library is still closed for meetings, The Oak Creek Apples Macintosh User Group will meet virtually at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17 at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82366520938.

To avoid having to transfer the Zoom address, you may email oakcreekapples@gmail.com with OCA Meeting in the subject line (no quotation marks). An autoreply email will provide the link that you may click or copy and paste in your browser to open the online Zoom session.

Find your local number at us02web.zoom.us/u/kf4MimFAl

Alan Gore will facilitate a general question-and-answer session. He often covers upcoming trends, as well as bugs and fixes. There is no charge to participate.

The usual monthly notices will appear in the local media to inform you of meeting plans for the remainder of 2020.

The OCAMUG is exclusively an educational institution for the public on the use of Apple Computers and other iOS devices, including maintenance, security, and software applications. OCAMUG is a 501 (c) (3) organization and donations are tax deductible.

Membership in the Oak Creek Apples is open to anyone. For more information, ask at the meeting greeting table.

Cottonwood Planning and Zoning vacancy

The City of Cottonwood is seeking applicants to fill one seat on its Planning and Zoning Commission for a partial term that expires Feb. 5, 2022.

This volunteer position is appointed by the City Council and serves without pay. All seven commission members must be residents of Cottonwood living within the incorporated city limits.

The Commission is responsible for the review of land use proposals (conditional use permits, zoning, subdivisions, code amendments and other special planning projects), as well as issues pertaining to architectural style, building design/materials, colors, landscaping, signs, etc. Preference will be given to applicants with a design-related background, training or experience, including architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, planning or fine arts.

The Commission typically meets once a month, however, may meet as needed as part of a public hearing process. On-going attendance is essential.

Cottonwood residents interested in serving the community are encouraged to consider applying for this volunteer position.

Commission applications are available at the Human Resources Office, located at 816 N. Main Street, by calling 928-340-2713, or online at cottonwoodaz.gov.

Completed applications must be submitted to the Human Resources office no later than 3 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 8. For more information about the Commission, call Scott Ellis in the Community Development Department at 928-634-5505, ext. 3321.

Airport design contest deadline extended

The City of Cottonwood Municipal Airport has extended the deadline for submissions to the compass rose design contest until Wednesday, Oct. 14, noon.

All local artists are invited to submit an original design for an aeronautical compass rose. The winner will paint their compass rose on the ramp at the airport about 50 feet in diameter as part of the national air-marking program.

In addition to aesthetic appeal and creativity, the design must also incorporate the technical requirements of a usable compass rose. An airport compass rose is used to calibrate the aircrafts magnetic compass. It is also often a unique airfield identifier found at many general aviation airports.

Artists are encouraged to provide a design that incorporates the essence of Cottonwood.

To download an informational flier with more information including compass rose examples visit cottonwoodaz.gov/compass-rose-extended.

Artists must live or work in the Verde Valley. Submissions may be made by individual artists or teams. Employees of the City of Cottonwood and their families are not eligible.

Entries may be submitted as either original artwork, photos of artwork, or as digital files (EPS, JPG, or PDF are acceptable digital file formats). Entries should be accompanied by examples of previous work by artist or team.

All entries must be received no later than noon, Wednesday, Oct. 14.

Hard-copy entries may be dropped off at City Hall, 827 N. Main St. Digital entries should be sent to pio@cottonwoodaz.gov. Judging: A committee comprised of City employees will select three finalists.

These entries will be posted, and the Cottonwood community will be invited to vote for their favorite. Whichever entry receives the most community votes will paint their compass rose on the ramp at the Cottonwood Municipal Airport.

Finalists will be announced Friday, Oct. 16. Community voting will be conducted online through Wednesday, Oct. 21. The winner will be announced Wednesday, Oct. 28.

El Valle plain air workshop Oct. 29

The El Valle Artists Association will host an outdoor plein air watercolor workshop Thursday, Oct. 29.

The workshop will feature local artist Sandra Beck. She will instruct at the Yavapai Vista Trailhead on State Route 179 in Sedona. Meet in the parking lot at 8:45 am. The class runs from 9 a.m. to noon.

If you are new to plein air, or a seasoned painter, you will benefit from Becks tricks to painting and catching ever-changing shadows, and how to simplify the subject matter.

The class size is limited to 12 participants. The cost is $30 for members of the El Valle Artists Association, $40 for non-members. Contact Nadine Cummins at 480-375-0982 or nadinecum@msn.com for information.

Shred-a-thon, free flu shots Oct. 16

Friday, Oct. 16, in the parking lot of Beaver Creek School, 4810 E. Beaver Creek Road, Rimrock, a Shred-a-Thon will be held. The event will run from noon until either 3 p.m. or until the Sir Speedy Shred Truck reaches capacity.

Bring as much as four medium size boxes to be shredded at no charge. Additional boxes will be shredded for a fee of $10 cash, per box, payable to the Sir Speedy truck driver.

Also on Oct. 16, in the Beaver Creek School parking lot, Yavapai County will conduct a drive-through for free flu shots from noon until 5:30 p.m.

Participants will be asked to social distance and wear a mask at these events.

These events are made available by AARP Arizona in coordination with Yavapai County District 2 Supervisor Tom Thurman and the Beaver Creek Community Action Team.

Lunch Wednesday at Camp Verde American Legion

From noon until 2 p.m. Wednesdays, Post 93 Camp Verde American Legion Auxiliary serves lunch at the legion, 286 S. 3rd St.

Lunch is open to the public. Cost is $6 and includes lunch and dessert, as well as a soda or water.

Menu changes each week, so call the post at 928-567-6154 to find out what is going to be served.

Manage adversity, trauma in time of COVID-19

The Sedona Women (TSW) will present Resilience: The Key to Managing Adversity and Trauma at 10 a.m. Oct. 14 via Zoom.

COVID-19 has introduced multiple stresses in multiple ways.

TSWs three-person panel of experts will discuss resiliency and offer actionable ways to cope during these stressful times.

Keynote Speaker Teri Pipe, Ph.D., RN, will address why some people handle crisis differently and triumph, while others crash.

Local resident Carmen Griffin will discuss her experience with resiliency and how she has personally used techniques to balance her life and successfully beat depression.

Barbara Litrell, TSW member and current President of The Mental Health Coalition Verde Valley, will moderate the panel as well as provide her own insights and experiences with resiliency.

Following the keynote speaker presentation, panelists will continue the discussion on resiliency and conduct an audience Q&A.

To register for this important virtual event visit thesedonawomen.com, click on the Events and Programs tab, and find October Program-Resilience.

Give blood in Cottonwood

The next blood drive in Cottonwood is from 9:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24 in the event room at Verde Valley Christian Church, 406 S. 6th St.

Contact Susan Van Gorp for more information at 928-851-6117 or visit Bloodhero.com (Sponsor code: VVCC). To schedule a donation, call 877-258-4825 or visit Vitalant.org.

Anyone who gives blood will receive a coupon from ACME Pizzaria for a free 10-inch cheese pizza.

Community Outreach Services

Join Catholic Charities Community Outreach Services in the Key Lime Room at Camp Verde Community Library between 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6 to learn about Veterans services, housing issues, mental health services, and other available community resources.

Room accommodations providing social distancing and sanitization have been implemented.

Camp Verde Community Library is at 130 Black Bridge Road, just off of Montezuma Castle Highway. For more information, call 928-554-8380.

Cottonwood's 66th annual Christmas Parade

Cottonwood's 66th annual Christmas Parade is scheduled Saturday, Dec. 5. This years theme is Arizona Dreamin, so put on your creative hats of all things Arizona that you dream of and come be a part of this truly hometown tradition. There will be floats, dancers, horses and much, much more. Prizes are awarded for Best Parade Theme, Best Commercial Float, Best Community Spirit and Best Marching/Walking Groups.

Registration is going on now. The early registration discount will disappear on Nov. 1, so do not delay. Non-Profit applicants are $10 and Commercial applicants are $25 until the end of October. After that Non-profits will be $20 and Commercial will be $40. This is a fun and effective way to get your organization or business recognized as a part of our great community.

You may pick up an application at the Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce offices, 849 Cove Parkway, Cottonwood, or go online to http://www.CottonwoodChamberAZ.org where you may register and pay. Registering online is faster and that is important because your position in the line-up is dependent on the order of registration.

The parade will begin at 11 a.m. Starting from the parking lot at the Verde Valley Fairgrounds, it will travel east on Cherry Street, turn left on Main Street and continue north all the way into Old Town Cottonwood. Bundle up, bring your chairs, and experience a true home town Christmas Parade. There are floats, fancy cars including one covered with toys, mountain men in authentic dress, dogs, horses, pigs, lambs, dancers, old tractors, fire trucks and much, much more!

Please contact the Chamber at info@cottonwoodchamberaz.org or call the Chamber of Commerce offices at 928-634-7593.

Clarkdale board and commission vacancies

Clarkdale residents are invited to make a difference in their community and help guide the future of the town by volunteering and applying for board and commission vacancies.

There are two positions on the Design Review Board and one on the Municipal Property Corporation.

The only qualification for applicants is that they must reside within town limits.

Boards and commissions usually meet once per month, but can meet more or less often depending on town business. A description of boards and commissions is posted on the website clarkdale.az.gov.

Applications may be downloaded from the website as well, and are also available at the Administration Building, 39 N. Ninth St., Clarkdale.

Return completed applications to MaryEllen.dunn@clarkdale.az.gov. Call 928-639-2453 with questions.

Republican luncheon Oct. 13

The public is invited to the Mingus Mountain Republican Club Luncheon at 11:15 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post #7400, 705 E. Aspen St., Cottonwood.

Arizona Senate President Karen Fann and Rusty Bowers, speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives, will be the events speakers.

Sen. Fann was elected in November of 2016 to represent Legislative District 1, which covers 8,000 square miles throughout Yavapai County and portions of Maricopa County.

Fann previously served this district from 2011 to 2016 as a State Representative. She continues to represent her community by serving as a precinct committeeman and is a member of the Rotary International and Elks.

Fann currently serves as the vice-chair of both the Finance Committee and the Transportation and Technology Committee and as a member of the Natural Resources, Energy and Water Committee.

Bowers has represented District 25 since Jan. 5, 2015. Before that, he was a member of the Arizona Senate from 19972001, and the Arizona House of Representatives from 19931997.

Bowers is also a classically trained artist with an emphasis in watercolor, oil painting and sculpting.

Doors open at 11 a.m., Lunch served at 11:15 a.m., meeting and programs begin at 11:30 a.m. Lunch is $12 and includes entree, salad, dessert, coffee or iced tea. No lunch charge is $5 venue fee, sodas are $1 extra.

RSVP by email before Friday Oct. 9 to, MingusMountainRepublicans@gmail.com or call Carol at 928-295-8769.

Windmill Park Farmers Market open through December

The Windmill Park Farmers Market in Cornville is open through December.

Located at 9550 Cornville Road, come to the market to shop for fresh local organic foods along the creek, under the trees, in the cool grass of a beautiful park.

Windmill Park Farmers Market is held Mondays from 2 p.m. until dusk.

Eight-week YC classes start Oct. 12

Yavapai College will offer a variety of eight-week classes to help students catch up, get ahead or even launch a new life direction.

The nearly 100 classes will start Oct. 12 and will offer something for the lifelong learner. A list of eight-week classes is at yc.edu/v6/marketing/pages/eight-week-classes.html.

Sedona cancels fall signature events

With Gov. Doug Duceys executive order prohibiting public group gatherings of more than 50 people and the citys desire to keep residents and visitors safe, Sedonas Parks and Recreation Department will not hold Oct. 17 Pumpkin Splash, nor the Oct. 31 Uptown Trick-or-Treat.

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Community events and announcements: Oct. 9, 2020 - Verde Independent