Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

Although preparing your home for winter is a fairly consistent process year-to-year, many homes have seen significantly more use this year due to COVID-19 restrictions. If your home will serve as your office or school throughout the winter months, its important to address issues that may have been noticed but tolerable during winters past.

Consider these tips from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry to help ensure your home is ready before winter weather strikes.

Improve indoor air quality

Beyond proper physical and structural considerations of winter preparations, the increased daily usage of your home naturally increases the importance of indoor air quality. Since windows and doors will likely be closed more often, moisture levels within your home can be significantly affected. Use a humidifier, if necessary, to maintain a relative humidity between 45-50%, which is healthier and can feel more comfortable. It can also keep wooden doors and windows functioning properly and wood furniture and floors looking good.

Get your furnace checked

To keep your furnace from failing when you need it most, get it inspected by a professional before you need to rely on it to heat your home in the dead of winter. If youre not leaving the house and turning down the thermostat each day, this will be especially important this year. Regular tune-ups can prolong your furnaces life, help prevent carbon monoxide leaks and ensure your unit is working at maximum efficiency. If a whole-house humidifier is included as part of the heating system, also inspect the humidifier and replace the element, if necessary.

Seal leaks around windows and doors

Air infiltration is one of the largest culprits of reductions in a homes efficiency. Small air leaks can add up to significant heat loss and a corresponding increase in energy consumption. If replacing window screens with storm windows and installing a storm door on your house isnt realistic, increase energy efficiency by sealing gaps around window and door moldings with caulk to help keep heat from escaping. If any pipes or ducts travel through an exterior wall of your home, you can also use caulking and weather-stripping to help block potential entry points for cold air.

Check your gutters

Improper drainage away from the home is one of the biggest causes of water leaking into basements and crawlspaces. Gutters and downspouts have the single purpose of routing water away from your home to help prevent damage to your foundation. Once leaves have fallen and before the first snow, ensure your gutters are properly secured and clear of debris. Clogged gutters can lead to improper drainage and potential overflow, ice damming or other water-related issues. Also adjust downspouts so they direct water at least five feet from the house to help minimize the possibility of water run-off back toward the foundation.

Prep the plumbing

When water freezes, it expands. Any residual water in pipes that is exposed to freezing temperatures, including interior lines located in exterior walls or unheated areas, can burst. Start by disconnecting hoses and shutting off exterior faucets, draining any water that remains in them and storing hoses indoors to prevent cracks. Drain any other pipes, valves or in-ground sprinklers that may be exposed to the elements and, for an extra layer of protection, wrap water spigots with covers to prevent damage. Sometimes a simple trick like keeping a cabinet door cracked open to allow warm air into the space can prevent frozen pipes.

Find more expert tips to get your home ready for winter at remodelingdoneright.nari.org

Source: National Association of the Remodeling Industry

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Get your home ready for work and school this winter - Amsterdam News

She said she had a simple method to freshen up carpets without needing to buy expensive products.

"A little tip I thought might be helpful to others," the Facebook user wrote.

"I cleaned my stair carpet with lemon juice diluted with water, I used a cloth and just rubbed it.

"It's great for stains and took the mucky bits from my dog's paws out.

DON'T MISS

"So if anyone's looking to freshen up their carpet I definitely recommend this method."

The homeowner revealed simply using lemon juice and water can remove stains and make carpets look as good as new.

When asked for more information, she explained people do not need fresh lemons to make her cleaning solution.

While sharing her tips, the homeowner also suggested using warm water for the best results.

The experts recommended using natural products and hoovering the carpet for the best results.

"Bedroom carpets can be ten times dirtier than a toilet seat, so its really important to clean them regularly," they said.

"At least once a week, give your carpets a good vacuum, and use natural cleaning sprays for a quick refresh."

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Carpet cleaning: Mrs Hinch fan shares cheap way to freshen up carpets and remove stains - Express

I was sent a test unit of the Neato D7 to review, and instantly put the robot vacuum to work. My needs ranged from general daily cleaning to picking up mud and dog fur after long post-rain walks. This Neato collected everything that was left behind, along with plenty of smaller dust and dirt particles. While it doesnt empty its dust bin when its done, the D7 makes up it with its powerful performance and numerous features.

As with other Neato robot vacuums, this one has a unique D-shape that allows it to better avoid obstacles and clean up against walls and other tricky places. The design looks a bit clunky but its surprisingly efficient.

Setting up the vacuum was a simple and straightforward process, and I quickly found myself setting up zone cleaning and floor mapping. With so many boundaries in place, I confidently walked away and let Neato handle the cleaning without worrying about it venturing into forbidden places.

If you have an Alexa device, you can conveniently ask it to tell the Neato to begin cleaning or return to its base. Although I dont have carpets, the Neato expertly climbed and cleaned a few area rugs. The anticipated run time of 120 minutes is pretty accurate, but using Turbo mode can drain the battery a bit faster.

An ultra-performance filter captures even the smallest particles and prevents them from escaping back into the air, which is a big plus for allergy sufferers. A spiral combo brush thats specifically designed to pick up pet hair on various floor surfaces makes this vacuum an especially practical choice for pet owners.

You can choose between eco and turbo modes depending on the task at hand. While eco mode helps to conserve energy, turbo mode boosts suction power and speeds up the brush to tackle messier areas.

This Neato runs up to 120 minutes per charge and automatically recharges then resumes cleaning when necessary.

Unless you want the vacuum to clean an entire level at once, youll want a way to block it from off-limit areas. Virtual barrier lines keep the vacuum inside designated areas while it cleans. You can simply push a button to have the vacuum clean within specified zones. You can create No-Go Lines for each floor plan in your living space.

This Neato has WiFi connectivity and works with 2.4 and 5GHz networks. Its compatible with Alexa, Google Home, Neato Chatbot and IFTTT. Laser mapping technology and a distinctive D-shape ensures the most efficient cleaning pattern. Regular software updates mean the D7 will only get better over time.

Choose the Neato Botvac D7 if you want:

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15 Best Robot Vacuums 2020: Compare & Save (Updated!) - Heavy.com

Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman on scouting first-round pick Lucas Raymond in world junior tournaments and the Swedish Elite League. The Detroit News

Detroit Wake up, the NHL Entry Draft is finally over.

And the Red Wings are happy with that fact and the way it turned out for them.

In a draft that lasted approximately seven hours which has to be some sort of second-day record the Wings added 11 players to forward Lucas Raymond, who was drafted Tuesday in the first-round.

More: 2020 NHL draft: Meet the newest Red Wings

"That was a long day, wasn't it," said general manager Steve Yzerman of the marathon day. "Fortunately we had 12 picks so we were relatively busy through it all. All of you that stuck around, I commend you."

The Wings added two picks after making trades with Minnesota, Vegas and St. Louis during the day although the Vegas traded netted a 2022 fourth-round pick and gave themselves the larger number of draft picks they need to accelerate and bolster the rebuild.

William Wallinder was the Red Wings' first pick of the second round.(Photo: DraftGeek)

Yzerman, after a long day, was pleased with the way it ended.

"The accumulation of 12 picks and players we liked in those particular spots, everyone feels pretty good," Yzerman said. "We were able to add 12 prospects. Hopefully a few of them become NHL players someday."

This was the first virtual draft in the NHL because of the pandemic, and Yzerman was satisfied with how it went. There were minimal glitches with the broadcast, and teams selected smoothly - albeit slowly.

Subscription: Wojo: Yzerman pulls off a crafty draft, boosts Red Wings stock

"I don't think there was any hiccups," Yzerman said. "At least technically. We got it done."

There was a balance between forwards and defense, which wasn't intended, but the Wings were pleased with it.

I look at the balance of the picks and Im comfortable with that, Yzerman said. Its not the biggest priority, we want to get the best prospects available, but Im OK with the balance.

"We're pleased we're developing a pool of prospects and now they have to get to the NHL. We have good prospects we feel good about. But we have to get them to the NHL."

The Wings need help at every position after having the NHLs worst record and they drafted for help in every department:

Forwards: Theodor Niederbach (second-round, 51st overall), Cross Hanas (second-round, 55th overall), Sam Stange (fourth-round, 97th overall), Chase Bradley (seventh-round, 203rd overall) and Kienan Draper (seventh-round, 187th overall).

Red Wings draft pick Lucas Raymond, left, is pursued by Slovakia's Michal Beno during the 2018 Hlinka Gretzky Cup in Edmonton, Alberta.(Photo: CODIE MCLACHLAN, AP)

Yes, Drapers son, who used to bounce around the Red Wings locker room at Joe Louis Arena back in the day.

Defensemen: William Walinder (second-round, 32nd overall), Donovan Sebrango (third-round, 63rd overall), Eemil Viro (third-round, 70th overall), Alex Cotton (fifth-round, 132nd overall) and Kyle Aucoin (sixth-round, 156th overall).

Goaltender: Jan Bednar (fourth-round, 107th overall).

These were the Wings trades:

Trading the 125th (a fifth-round) pick to Vegas in exchange for a 2022 fourth-round pick.

The Wings dealt a third-round pick (65th overall) to Minnesota for picks No. 70 (third-round) and No. 132 (fourth-round).

With the day almost ending, the Wings acquired a seventh-round pick (203rd), in exchange for a seventh-round pick in 2021.

Kris Draper, director of amateur scouting, was excited about the additions to the organization.

Were excited, it was a long day, but we feel we touched on a lot of needs, Draper said. We felt we had good balance of what we added to the organization and in what weve added with the positional players. Were proud of the selections we made and now the work starts.

Yzerman wanted to accumulate more picks, more chances to add depth in the organization, and it appeared it was a task accomplished.

It seemed like I made 10 trades, and we made four, Yzerman said. It was busy. Last night was relatively quiet after we made our pick. Today was busy, but I was pleased we were able to move back and get extra picks.

ted.kulfan@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @tkulfan

Kris Draper, Red Wings director of amateur scouting, talks about 18-year-old forward Lucas Raymond's transition from an underage player to the pro SHL. The Detroit News

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Red Wings add 'good balance,' 11 picks on busy second day of draft - The Detroit News

Corvaya Jeffries|Palm Beach Post

Readers: In 1848, Florida, a state for only three years, had only about 58,000 residents. Its government was so small an oxymoron today it sought private tenants to fill some of the offices in its new 23,000-square-foot, three-story capitol!

Now, Tallahassee boasts 28 major state buildings and a 22-story capitol tower. Nestled at the towers base, making a stirring site on the approach along Apalachee Parkway, is the Old Capitol. Saved from the wrecking ball when the new building opened in 1978 and restored to its 1902 appearance, it has been turned into a state historic museum that both displays and is part of the states past.

You'll recall from our column in March 2019 how Tallahassee became the seat of government.

Read more Florida history: Here are Floridas top 25 stories of all time

The first statehouse, a log cabin, was replaced in 1826 by a two-story masonry building; it was never finished and its contractor went bankrupt. A state-of-the-art building, begun in 1839 and opened in 1845, the year Florida became a state. The building was extensively damaged in an 1851 hurricane.

At the turn of the century, when Floridas population had grown to about a half million, the capitol now featuring the luxuries of telephones and indoor plumbing was expanded to 44,000 square feet. The dome and north and south wings were added. It still held all of state government. East and west wings were built in 1923nand the north and south wings were expanded in 1936 and 1947.

Then Florida started to grow. At the end of World War II, it was ranked 27th in population. By 1960 it was tenth. In the 1960s, concluding the old edifice couldnt handle more additions, state officials began to build a brand-new capitol. It was dedicated March 1, 1978.

Florida Time archives: Get caught up on the stories youve missed

The old building was scheduled for the wrecking ball. But Florida Secretary of State Bruce Smathers gathered public support to save it. In 1982, the restored Old Capitol opened as a museum. Its now the Florida Historic Capitol Museum and is managed by the Legislature.

The museum brings in two or three temporary exhibits a year, but has several permanent ones.

Visitors can walk through the restored Governors Suite, rotunda, halls and chambers for the Supreme Court, House of Representatives and Senate. Eight second-floor rooms have been filled with exhibits of photographs and artifacts interpreting Floridas history.

READER REWIND: What airport memories do you have? Share yours with us by leaving a voicemail at (850) 270-8418.

Next week:The UFO sightings near Pensacola

Last week:Gamble Mansion of the Souths antebellum plantation era

Eliot Kleinberg has been a staff writer for the past three decades at The Palm Beach Post in West Palm Beach, and is the author of 10 books about Florida (www.ekfla.com). Submit your questions, comments or memories to FloridaTime@Gatehousemedia.com. Include your full name and hometown. Sorry; no personal replies.

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Florida Time: The Old Capitol that dodged a wrecking ball - Daytona Beach News-Journal

The 2020 NHL Draft has concluded, but the New York Rangers' 2021 roster is far from set.

Of the nine draft picks the Blueshirts brought in during the two-day virtual draft, only one will make an immediate impact No. 1 overall pick Alexis Lafrenire. It'll be years before we see any of the others on the NHL stage, if they get there at all.

If the Rangers are going to make any other additions to next season's roster, it will happen after the free agency period opens Friday at noon. It's likely they will, either through free agency or trade, but it could only be a minor move or two. They still have to consider what to do with their own restricted free agents and how much they're willing to pay for them and leave some salary cap space to account for potential performance bonuses from their entry-level players.

As an exercise in identifying where the Rangers stand currently, I've focused on two areas. The first is what their NHL lineup would look like if they hit the ice today, and the second is what the organizational depth looks like beyond the projected NHL lineup. For the latter, I've broken each position into two categories top prospects in terms of upside and which players are most likely to be called on if needed in the coming season.

DRAFT TAKEAWAYS: Rangers add grit and keep RFAs

NHL DRAFT TRACKR: Analysis of every Rangers pick

I should note that I've included all of the RFAs the Rangers extended qualifying offers to. Most will likely be retained, but one or two could be gone.

With that, here is my post-draft, pre-free agency lineup projection:

FORWARDS

First line Chris Kreider (LW) - Mika Zibanejad (C) - Pavel Buchnevich (RW)

Second line Artemi Panarin (LW) - Ryan Strome (C) - Kaapo Kakko (RW)

Third line Alexis Lafrenire (LW) - Filip Chytil (C) - Julien Gauthier (RW)

Fourth line Brendan Lemieux (LW) - Morgan Barron (C) - Brett Howden (RW)

New York Rangers right wing Kaapo Kakko (24) celebrates with center Mika Zibanejad (93) after Kakko scored against the Dallas Stars during the second period of an NHL hockey game in Dallas, Tuesday, March 10, 2020.(Photo: Michael Ainsworth, AP)

DEFENSEMEN

First pair Tony DeAngelo (L) and Jacob Trouba (R)

Second pair Ryan Lindgren (L) and Adam Fox (R)

Third pair Libor Hjek (L) and Brendan Smith (R)

New York Rangers' Tony DeAngelo (77) celebrates with teammate Jacob Trouba after scoring the game winning goal during the overtime period of an NHL hockey game against the Minnesota Wild Monday, Nov. 25, 2019, in New York. The Rangers won 3-2. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)(Photo: Frank Franklin II, AP)

GOALIES

Starter Igor Shesterkin

Backup Alexandar Georgiev

Igor Shesterkin #31 of the New York Rangers makes a save against the Carolina Hurricanes during the first period in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Qualification Round prior to the 2020 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena on August 04, 2020 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.(Photo: Andre Ringuette, Getty Images)

My thoughts We know the Rangers are looking to add a center, but as it stands now, it would almost certainly be Strome and Chytil on the second and third lines. The fourth line would likely be a training camp battle between Barron and Howden, with the other possibly ending up on a wing.

Of course, I'm sure many of you are wondering about Vitali Kravtsov. It's entirely plausible that he ends up making the NHL roster, especially if he keeps up his strong play in the KHL. But as of this moment, he's still in Russia. We don't know yet if the Rangers plan to bring him back for training camp, or let him continue in the KHL. For sure, though, the 2018 first-round pick is a candidate to crack the top nine probably as the right-winger on the third line.

I'm also sure many of you are clamoring for Lafrenire in the top six. That will happen soon enough, but I believe the Rangers will ease him in. It'll be interesting to see if they try out any of their left-wingers on the right.

As for the defense, general manager Jeff Gorton told us they're giving serious consideration to moving DeAngelo or Fox to the left side. This makes a lot of sense, especially if they don't bring in a top-four caliber lefty. To me, it seems logical to keep the Lindgren-Fox pairing together and give DeAngelo a shot next to Trouba. That would balance the bigger, more physical presences (Trouba and Lindgren) with the mobile puck-movers (DeAngelo and Fox).

Lastly, highly touted prospect K'Andre Miller should have a chance to earn a spot on defense out of training camp. But he won't be handed an NHL role until he moves past Smith and Hjek on the depth chart.

LEFT WING

Top prospects 1. Lafrenire (NHL); 2. William Cuylle (OHL); 3. Brett Berard (NCAA)

Current depth chart 1. Phil Di Giuseppe (NHL/AHL); 2. Tim Gettinger (AHL); 3. Patrick Newell (AHL)

My thoughts With the Rangers qualifying Di Giuseppe on Wednesday, there's a decent chance he sticks on the NHL roster as the 13th forward. Each of the top three long-term prospects was taken in this year's draft, although you could debate between Berard and 2019 fifth-round pick Leevi Aaltonen at No. 3.

Alexis Lafreniere #11 of Team White is presented with the winners trophy following the final whistle of the 2020 CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game against Team Red at FirstOntario Centre on January 16, 2020 in Hamilton, Canada.(Photo: Vaughn Ridley, Getty Images)

CENTER

Top prospects 1. Barron (NHL/AHL); 2. Karl Henriksson (SHL); 3. Oliver Trnstrm (Allsvenskan)

Current depth chart 1. Justin Richards (AHL); 2. Patrick Khoderenko (AHL); 3. Austin Rueschhoff (AHL)

My thoughts It remains to be seen if the Rangers prefer Barron in the middle or on the wing, but it makes sense to at least give him a chance here. If he ends up on the wing, Henriksson, a second-round pick in 2019, becomes the organization's top guy. As for the AHL guys who are next-in-line, the leading candidates are the trio of undrafted centers the Rangers signed out of college last winter.

Cornell's Morgan Barron, center, makes his way down the ice during their game against Colgate at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019.(Photo: Heather Ainsworth, AP)

RIGHT WING

Top prospects 1. Kravtsov (KHL); 2. Gauthier (NHL); 3. Lauri Pajuniemi (Liiga)

Organizational depth 1. Kravtsov; 2. Ty Ronning (AHL); 3. Jake Elmer (AHL)

My thoughts Kravtsov is both the top prospect and the first guy the Rangers would want to recall. Beyond him, they would probably use Barron, Howden or Di Giuseppe as a RW option in the event of an injury.

Rangers prospect Vitali Kravtsov and other Rangers prospects practice at the Rangers training facility in Greenburgh Sept. 5, 2019. (Photo: Frank Becerra Jr./The Journal News)

LEFT DEFENSE

Top prospects 1. Miller (AHL/NHL); 2. Zac Jones (NCAA); 3. Matthew Robertson (WHL)

Organizational depth 1. Miller (AHL/NHL); 2. Tarmo Reunanen (AHL/NHL); 3. Brandon Crawley (AHL)

My thoughts The Rangers feel good about their depth here; now it's just a matter of development. Miller and Reunanen will have a chance to compete for NHL roles in camp, while the top three prospects at this position are the strongest group of any in the organization. They also have Yegor Rykov, Jacob Ragnarsson and Simon Kjellberg.

K'Andre Miller on the ice during the first day of New York Rangers development camp June 24, 2019 at Chelsea Piers in Stamford, Conn. (Photo: Tania Savayan/The Journal News)

RIGHT DEFENSE

Top prospects 1. Nils Lundkvist (SHL); 2. Braden Schneider (WHL); 3. Hunter Skinner (OHL)

Organizational depth 1. Darren Raddysh (AHL); 2. Lundkvist (SHL); 3. One of the lefties

My thoughts Having prospects the caliber of Lundkvist and Schneider behind Trouba, Fox and DeAngelo could eventually create a logjam, but it's a good problem to have. As for the immediate depth, it's probably either Raddysh or move one of the lefties over. By the time the SHL season finishes, though, Lundkvist could sign.

June 25, 2018: The New York Rangers host a development camp for their prospects at the MSG Training Center in Tarrytown, NY. Pictured is Nils Lundkvist.(Photo: Cam Camarena/MSG Photos)

GOALIES

Top prospects 1. Shesterkin (NHL); 2. Tyler Wall (AHL); 3. Dylan Garand (WHL)

Current depth chart 1. Adam Huska (AHL); 2. Wall (AHL); 3. Oolf Lindbom (Allsvenskan)

My thoughts It seems silly to list Shesterkin as a prospect, but he's still eligible for the Calder Trophy next season. As for the depth behind him and Georgiev, it'll be interesting to see how playing time is divided in Hartford between Huska and Wall. For now, in the event of an emergency, the Rangers would probably recall Huska first because he's more experienced.

June 25, 2019: The New York Rangers host their prospects at development camp at Chelsea Piers in Stamford, CT. Pictured is Tyler Wall.(Photo: Jared Silber/MSG Photos)

Vincent Z. Mercogliano is the New York Rangers beat reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Read more of his work at lohud.com/sports/rangers/ and follow him on Twitter @vzmercogliano.

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Examining NY Rangers prospect depth and lineup possibilities after the NHL Draft - The Journal News / Lohud.com

Whether you are a media specialist seeking excellent additions to your collection or titles to recommend, or an educator seeking gold for both remote and in-person learning, youll find plenty of options here, with accurate and authentic booksby and about Native Americans and First Nations people.

Our world is experiencing a social and political reckoning. In such turbulent times, literature can serve as a tool of enlightenment and escape. Whether you are a media specialist seeking excellent additions to your collection or titles to recommend, or an educator seeking gold for both remote and in-person learning, youll find plenty of options here. Most importantly, the accurate and authentic books here are by and about Native Americans and First Nations people.

According to a Diversity in Childrens Books 2018 infographic, one percent of books published in the United States and Canada in 2018 had content about, or depicted characters with, Native American/First Nations backgrounds. Of that one percent, 40 books were by Native American/First Nations people and 56 were about Native American/First Nations people. This data does not reflect the quality of those representations, only quantity. Many of the books published each year about Indigenous people contain misrepresentations of Native people and cultures. While the number of books by Native American/First Nations authors released by U.S. and Canadian publishers has slowly increased over the past decade, with this past year signaling perhaps a watershed moment, there is a long way to go.

In-person, remote, and hybrid instructional models this year will all yield even less actual teaching time than previous years. To maximize time with students, the titles we use must meet high standard: They must serve as instructional resources, they must be accurate and authentic, and they must be engaging enough to return to time and again as mentor texts.

The featured picture books, board books, and graphic novel are for all ages. These titles showcase beautiful language and a higher vocabulary, and can be used with multiple levels of readers. They also explore prevalent themes and important concepts, which can be used across subject areas.

Additionally, these books transcend standards for pre-K12 learning. They can be used in reading, writing, and language instruction. Some are appropriate for social studies and even science. They can also serve as mentor texts and touchstones, which provide continuity for students while saving instructional time by using familiar books. The best part? They will ignite curiosity and keep readers engaged.

CHILD, Brenda J. Bowwow Powwow. illus by Jonathan Thunder. tr. from Ojibwe by Gordon Jourdain. Minnesota Historical Society. 2018. ISBN 9781681340777.Gr 2-4 This recipient of the 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Award for Picture Books is an Ojibwe dual-language celebration of the history of Ojibwe song and dance, past and present, according to the authors note. Intriguing illustrations that blend historical with contemporary powwows depict Windy Girl, her uncle, and her dog Itchy Boy dancing, enjoying food, and bonding with friends at a summer powwow. Windy Girl falls asleep that night and dreams of a different powwow, the kind Itchy Boy would love.

FLETT, Julie. Birdsong. illus. by author. Greystone Kids. 2019. ISBN 9781771644730.Gr 2-7 Set against the backdrop of the four seasons and sprinkled with Cree words, this gorgeous taleand 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Honor Award winner for Picture Booksfollows young Katherena as she and her mother move from the city to the country, and as she and Agnes, her elderly neighbor, forge an unusual friendship. How Katherena deals with Agness health is just one of the lessons she learns throughout the year.

LINDSTROM, Carole. We Are Water Protectors. illus. by Michaela Goade. Roaring Brook. Mar. 2020. ISBN 9781250203557.Gr 2-4 This multilayered picture book was written in support of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, who protested the Dakota Access Pipeline. It can be used on a surface level with younger children and on a deeper, more informed level with older students. The authors and illustrators notes provide valuable information, and there is a pledge children can sign to protect the environment.

MAILLARD, Kevin Noble. Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story. illus. by Juana Martinez-Neal. Roaring Brook. 2019. ISBN 9781626727465.Gr K-4 Fry bread is so much more than a food! It is shape, sound, color, flavor, time with family, and tradition. Weaving history and the strength of Native people into the story of fry bread, this picture book showcases Indigenous diversity of appearance and nation. Dont miss the authors note and recipe in the back.

PEACOCK, Thomas. The Forever Sky. illus. by Annette S. Lee. Minnesota Historical Society. 2019. ISBN 9781681340982.Gr 3-5 So many Native people share stories within families, clans, and tribes to strengthen ties with each other and to ensure the stories will live on through generations. This beautiful picture book follows that tradition for the Ojibwe, using a traditional story-within-a-story structure to tenderly answer young Niigaaniis question: Where does Grandmothers spirit go when it leaves this world? Lees stunning illustrations depict the northern lights and all the relatives dancing in the circle of the Forever Sky. A 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Honor Award winner for Picture Books, this is an exceptional book that deals deftly, comfortingly, and culturally with a challenging time for young people.

ROBERTSON, Joanne. The Water Walker. illus. by author. tr. from Ojibwe by the author. Second Story. 2019. ISBN 9781772601008.Gr 3-8 This is the new dual-language edition of the story of Josephine Mandamin, an Ojibwe grandmother, and the Water Walkers, who walked around the Great Lakes to raise awareness of the need to protect the water. With contemporary references and illustrations, Robertson creates a call to action for environmental issues.

SORRELL, Traci. At the Mountains Base. illus. by Weshoyot Alvitre. Penguin/Kokila. 2019. ISBN 9780735230606.Gr K-5 Native American women and men have served at high rates in all branches of the military. A 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Honor Award winner for Picture Books, this lovely poem is a tribute to them and their loved ones back at home. Glimpses of daily life through the lens of a World War II pilot and a fictional Cherokee Nation family illuminate this era in history.

VAN CAMP, Richard. Kiss by Kiss. illus. by author. Orca. 2018. ISBN 9781459816213.Gr PreS-K This delightful rhyming counting book in Cree and English will have the youngest learners asking for it over and over. Beautiful close-up photography of faces will entrance, while the rhythmic words will pull kids in.

VAN CAMP, Richard. Welcome Song for Baby. illus. by author. Orca. 2018. ISBN 9781459820104.Gr PreS-K This dual-language book is a poem, a lullaby, a declaration, and a pledge to every child reader. Lyrical language describes the value of each child, each identity, while exquisite photos capture the diverse beauty of babies and adults.

VANDEVER, Daniel W. Fall in Line, Holden! illus. by author. Salina Bookshelf. 2017. ISBN 9781893354500.Gr K-12 This is one of those rare, multilayered picture books that can be used with all ages of students, from the tiniest readers to high schoolers. On the surface, younger readers will delight in the imaginative Holdens impatience for recess and difficulty standing still in line. But the text serves as an allegorical tool to open discussions of Native boarding schools, a grim period in American history. From the first paragraph to illustrations of mouthless students, this book is a treasure complex enough for secondary students and accessible and engaging for primary students.

AKULUKJUK, Roselynn & Danny Christopher. Putuguq and Kublu and the Qalupalik! illus. by Astrid Arijanto. Inhabit Media. 2019. ISBN 9781772272284.Gr 1-3 This graphic novel for newly independent readers will have students in stitches as Putuguqs imagination runs away with him. He and his big sister, Kublu, listen to their grandfathers story of the qalupaliitstrange creatures that live under the sea ice and snatch children. Grandpa tells them to be extra careful on their way and listen to the sea ice. Told with humor, modern-day relevance, and traditional story-within-a-story structure, this gem uses an attractive graphic novel format to show a grandfathers care to keep children safe and aware as they cross the ice.

Kara Stewart, an enrolled member of the Sappony Tribe, is a literacy coach and reading specialist in the public schools of Orange County, NC.

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Native Perspectives: Books by, for, and about Indigenous People | Great Books - School Library Journal

The future of the New York Rangers is becoming brighter and clearer by the day.

The Blueshirts added seven new prospects on Day 2 of the NHL Draft, maneuvering with two trades aimed at targets they view as long-term fits. They came out of the draft with a total of nine additions to their system, most notably No. 1 overall pick Alexis Lafrenire.

They also said goodbye to a player who turned out to be a bad fit, sending former first-round pick Lias Andersson to the Los Angeles Kings to move back into Wednesday's second round.

But as for the present, particularly the team that will take the ice when the new season is scheduled to begin on Jan. 1, many questions remain.

One of those questions centers around their second-line center.

The Rangers waited until close to the 5 p.m. deadline to extend a qualifying offer to restricted free agent Ryan Strome. Allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent was never an option, but general manager Jeff Gorton took his time exploring the trade market for last season's 59-point scorer.

"Ryans due a significant raise and we had some things we were talking to some teams about," Gorton said candidly. "I wanted to keep the options open until the very last second."

Nov. 16: The New York Rangers center Ryan Strome from the Edmonton Oilers.(Photo: Brad Penner, USA TODAY Sports)

The right deal never came but that doesn't mean it won't.

Gorton can still trade Strome in the coming days or weeks, but he's clearly not going to give him away. And the fact remains the Rangers don't have a replacement at the moment, unless they want to roll with the unproven trio of Filip Chytil, Brett Howden and Morgan Barron as three of their four centers.

LIAS ANDERSSON: Trade completes divorce with former top-10 pick

NHL DRAFT TRACKER: Analysis of every NY Rangers pick

In order to trade Strome, Gorton was probably seeking a second-round pick if not more.

He was able to fetch that in exchange for Andersson, landing one at the very end of the round, No. 60 overall. With it, the Rangers selected tough-minded winger William Cuylle.

The value falls well short of the No. 7 overall slot where Andersson was drafted in 2017, but this conclusion was inevitable. Once Andersson left for Sweden and requested the trade, the Rangers had their backs against the wall.

"Obviously, you take a guy that high, you hope that he has an impact sooner than later," Gorton said. "At this point in his career, it's hard to say. Maybe we brought him over too soon. I don't know. It's just a lot of things didn't go the way we wanted it to. He's still a young guy. I think he needed a fresh start, so we just made a decision to move and start over."

Nov 7, 2019; Raleigh, NC, USA; New York Rangers center Lias Andersson (28) takes a shot against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena.(Photo: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports)

If Andersson goes to L.A. and succeeds, the Rangers will deserve some criticism for mishandling him. The bigger criticism is simply making the wrong pick. (Although, to be fair, none of the players selected immediately behind Andersson are looking like stars.)

But considering Andersson turned down the Rangers invitation to join the team for the summer restart, and was clearly not coming back to New York anytime soon, this deal could have been worse.

Waiting, rather than forcing a trade back in the winter, was the right move. Allowing Andersson to play in the Swedish Hockey League where he's posted 16 points in 19 games boosted his trade value and made getting a second-round pick possible.

"I think it's helped him to go back and play," Gorton said. "From speaking to him and his agents, he was more comfortable there. He just felt more and more confident playing over there each day, so I think teams were able to see him. For sure, there's been some teams that have called me and checked in."

Cuylle described himself as a player who models his game after Washington Capitals bruiser Tom Wilson.

He joins No. 19 overall pick Braden Schneider, as well as some of the Rangers' later picks, as players who are known for toughness and aggressive play. Clearly, that was a strategy for the Rangers in this draft.

"We definitely want to be harder to play against and had identified some players that we saw had some grit to their game, some size, but also some skill, too," Gorton said. "A lot of those bigger players, we feel like have some upside, too. ... That's definitely a need we identified and think we've addressed."

Jeff Gorton.

The Rangers waited until the third round to address their top need at center, drafting Swedish center Oliver Trnstrm at No. 92. They also wisely used two of their seventh-round picks to acquire a fifth-round choice (No. 127 overall) from the San Jose Sharks, where they tabbed Evan Vierling. They added two other forwards on Day 2, drafting 5-foot-9 winger Brett Berard at No. 134 and 6-foot-8 center Matt Rempe at No. 165.

All of those players are known for having high motors, which continues the grit theme.

The Rangers have loaded up on skill in recent years, both in the draft think Chytil, Kaapo Kakko and Vitali Kravtsov and with the addition of Artemi Panarin. Now they're working on balancing the roster.

"We addressed a lot of needs," Gorton said. "Some emphasis on size. We had a lot of Canadians which, lately it seemed to have just worked out that we had a lot of Europeans. It's one of those years where it worked out that we ended up with some players from North America."

They also drafted two goalies Dylan Garand at No. 103 and Hugo Ollas at No. 197.

It came down to the wire, but the Rangers ultimately qualified all five of their NHL RFAs Strome, Tony DeAngelo, Brendan Lemieux, Phil Di Giuseppe and Alexandar Georgiev.

All five are arbitration eligible if they can't come to terms with the Rangers on their own. Any of them could still be traded, or signed to an offer sheet by another team. But the Rangers have the right to match any offer sheet.

They also extended qualifying offers to AHL RFAs Gabriel Fontaine, Brandon Crawley and Darren Raddysh, while declining to extend Ryan Gropp and Dawson Leedahl.

Gorton added that he expects their top UFA, veteran forward Jesper Fast, to "at least see what's out there" once free agency opens on Friday.

New York Rangers' Tony DeAngelo (77) shoots during the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Minnesota Wild, Monday, Nov. 25, 2019, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)(Photo: Frank Franklin II, AP)

Interestingly, Gorton discussed a possible position shift for DeAngelo.

The Rangers are top heavy with right-handed defensemen, with DeAngelo, Adam Fox and Jacob Trouba representing a formidable NHL trio. They also have Nils Lundkvist playing in the SHL as their top defenseman prospect, plus this week's addition of Schneider.

And while they have a deep group of prospects on the left side, none are proven in the NHL. Beyond Ryan Lindgren, there are only questions marks.

With that in mind, Gorton acknowledged the possibility of trying one of their righties out of the left side.

"Weve talked about our right side and who is the best person to move other there," Gorton said. "I dont think itll be Troubs. Weve talked about Foxy and Tony. Those are ongoing conversations (about) trying to get them more ice time. Listen, we have a very talented right side that can move the puck, and we do think we have two guys that are very capable. Actually, our organization thinks we have a young player in Sweden (Lundkvist) that can do it, too, and play the offside. So, we're pretty comfortable that they can do it."

If the Rangers can come to terms with DeAngelo, it's very possible that their top-two pairs would consist of their four-best defensemen DeAngelo, Fox, Trouba and Lindgren.

Vincent Z. Mercogliano is the New York Rangers beat reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Read more of his work at lohud.com/sports/rangers/ and follow him on Twitter @vzmercogliano.

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Takeaways from NHL Draft Day 2: NY Rangers add grit and keep RFAs, but not done yet - The Journal News / Lohud.com

Jacob Myers|The Columbus Dispatch

Columbus 2, FC Dallas 2 | Caleb Porter postgame press conference

Columbus Crew coach Caleb Porter addresses the media following a 2-2 draw at FC Dallas on Oct. 3, 2020.

When homegrown midfielder Aidan Morrissubbedinto Saturdays game at FC Dallasfor the injured Lucas Zelarayan late in the first half,the Crewhadessentially thelineupthat ended the 2019 season.Key offseason additionsDarlington Nagbe,Zelarayanand VitoWormgoorwere all out.

Butin the absence of two key players Saturday goalkeeper Eloy Roomexited with an injury in the 71stminute the Crew found an extra level to earna2-2 drawthat kept the clubatop the Eastern Conference and Supporters Shield race.

The second half the character they showed, the personality they showed, the aggression they played with that's the way we need to play, coach Caleb Porter said after the game. That's our game."

Morris made an immediate impact by winning duels to help the Crew control the second half in possession, and midfielder Pedro Santos continued to show his good form from last season with the tying goal in the 62ndminute his fourth goal in the past six games.

Injuries last season derailed the Crew before Porter made additions to the roster in July.There have been no personnel changesin 2020, but the unknown prognosis on Zelarayan and Room could affect that.

To remain competitive forthe top record in the MLSin the finaleight games while key players recover,the Crew needs to avoid more injuriesandtoperformas it did in the second halfSaturday.

"We're hanging in, Porter said. Not exactly the way we completely want it to be, but I think survival a little bit in these next couple weeks for everyone.

The Crew has been withoutWormgoorsince the first game of the MLS is Back Tournament in July, and has weathered through games without Nagbe and Zelarayan already this season.Porter said Thursday that Nagbe was probably still one to two weeks away but was making progress.

The Crew changed its formationagainst Dallas to a 4-1-4-1because of the lack of depth in the central midfield with Nagbe and FataiAlasheout with injuries. The change in formation had midfielders Youness Mokhtar, Santos, Zelarayan and Luis Diaz all in the lineup, giving the Crew all its best scoring-chance creators on the field at the same time.

In the 43rdminutewhenZelarayan went to the ground grabbing his right hamstring, Porter was forced to returnto hispreferred4-2-3-1formation.Zelarayan appeared to suffer the injury when extending for a ball in the box after a cross from left back Milton Valenzuela. When Zelarayan attempted to kick the ball a second time, he hopped awkwardly on his left foot before getting a shot away.

Santos isnt as talented or skilled in possession as Zelarayan, but the Portuguese winger has proven to bea more than adequate replacement to an injured central attacking midfielder in the past 18 months. Hell need to bring the same intensity he showed in the second half if Zelarayan missestime.

"I feel like I'm playing very good soccer, Santos said. Every time I move to theNo. 10I know my job and my teammates know that I can help the team.

Rooms injury occurred after he dived on a ball around the 66thminute. He appeared to aggravate ita few minutes later when he slipped while clearing a ball out of play. If hes unable to go, Andrew Tarbell will take over again. He allowed one goal in three earlier starts.

There arent many teams around MLS that arent dealing with multiple injuries. Porter said he was confident the Crew would win a lot of games if it clones the second half in Dallas. That might be required to stay atop the East until key players return.

jmyers@dispatch.com

@_jcmyers

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With more injuries against FC Dallas, how Columbus Crew can continue to stay atop the East - The Columbus Dispatch

While were already expecting a fairly large number of unscheduled free agents to join the market this winter by way of COVID-induced non-tenders, Major League Baseball could also get significant additions to free agency by way of international players coming to the States.

One player, in particular, might just be the prize of the class, and hes reportedly on his way.

Meet Ha-Seong Kim, a soon-to-be 25-year-old Gold Glove, base-stealing, high-contact, offensively well-above-average shortstop set to make his Major League Debut for some lucky team in 2021. He is likely one of the best prospects in baseball:

As you can see by his stats, Kim has been an impactful player throughout his time in the KBO, leveling off with a consistent 140 wRC+ over his last two seasons, while always hitting above average overall. Best of all? Gotta love those trends in strikeout rate, walk rate, and power. He keeps adding a bit more power and walks while striking out less and less.

Hes also considered a plus on the bases and in the field, with every ability to stick at shortstop long-term.

I think Kyle Glasers notes on Kim from back in May before his excellent 2020 season, mind you do a good job of illustrating his skillset and projected abilities:

Hes a 24-year-old shortstop who hit .307/.389/.491 with 19 home runs, 104 RBI and 33 stolen bases in 37 attempts for Kiwoom last year. Kim is a solid all-around player who projects to stick at shortstop. He is a good athlete with good instincts at the position and has the average arm strength to stay on the left side of the infield. He projects to be an above-average hitter and has enough power to hit 12-15 home runs per year in the majors.

Kim is likely to face an adjustment period at the plate when he first arrives in the U.S., but he has the athleticism and twitch to adjust and eventually hit major league velocity. He is a plus runner who adds value on the bases as well.

Again, if that write-up makes you excited, remember that Kim went on to slash .304/.396/.522 (140 wRC+) this past year with 27 home runs and 21 more stolen bases in his age-24 season. Because of his age and talent level, Kim would obviously be a top-100 prospect and one of the top-10 free agents available this winter.

Of course, just because he has become available and can negotiate with all 30 teams at once doesnt mean that process looks similar to a normal MLB free agent. Specifically, whenever Kim does eventually sign a new deal, the winning team will have to pay a fee to his current KBO team, and that fee is on-top of (not withdrawn from) whatever contract Kim signs.

Posting Fee Schedule:

20% of the contracts first $25M

17.5% of the contracts next $25M

15% of anything beyond $50M

So lets say, for example, that Kim signs a deal worth $75 million (which is completely made up, because, frankly, I have *no clue* what a player like him will be able to command given the current financial landscape). The team would actually pay out $88.125 million total ($75M to Kim and $13.125M to the KBO Kiwoom Heroes). Thats just something to keep in mind.

But Ive strung you along long enough lets talk about the Cubs.

Do I think Kim is an interesting potential Cubs target? Well, of course! Hes young, talented, and available at a position of theoretical need by which I mean the Cubs have a hole at second base and have a shortstop, Javy Bez, heading into his final year of team control.

The Cubs could theoretically 1) play Kim at second base alongside Bez for a year before moving Kim to short long-term and letting Bez walk, 2) play Kim at shortstop immediately with Bez shifting to second for a year, before letting Bez walk, or 3) keep both in their long-term plans up the middle by signing Kim and eventually extending Bez, playing these guys at whichever position suits them best. (Drools.)

But given the Cubs financial situation this offseason, I really dont know how much money will be available, even for a seemingly perfect fit like Kim. The Cubs likely dont have zero money, but every indication is that things will be tight. Could they make an exception for a very young, long-term piece like Kim? Might they view this and next years offseason budgets together as one unit, since so much money will come off the books after the 2021 season? Maybe Im stretching because I want the Cubs to add a potentially perfect bat to the mix? Yup!

Of course, even if Ha-Seong Kim does not wind up a realistic target for the Cubs, that doesnt mean that his availability on the free agent market wouldnt impact them at all. Specifically, it could affect them by way of pushing Bez slightly closer toward an extension.

Consider that this offseason, shortstops Didi Gregorius, Marcus Semien, and Andrelton Simmons will all be free agents. And next offseason, shortstops Trevor Story, Brandon Crawford, Jose Iglesias, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa, Francisco Lindor, and Bez will all be free agents. That is a LOT of starting shortstops becoming available over the next 12-14 months (i.e., a lot of competition on the market). Might the existence of another, even younger talent like Kim push Bez to extend sooner than later to avoid being left on the outside looking in? I could see it.

Increasingly, we see the guys viewed as the tip-top of the market getting tip-top dollars, and then everyone else getting squeezed out. Right now, especially after this past season, its hard to argue that Bez is the tip-top guy among that list of names. Playing out the 2021 season and hitting free agency could come with a lot of potential reward for Bez, but also a lot of risk.

Ultimately, the dream scenario for the Cubs is probably locking up Bez AND grabbing Kim while you can especially considering the Cubs top positional prospects play completely different positions (catcher (Miguel Amaya) and center field (Brennen Davis)), and its not yet clear if Nico Hoerner is an everyday guy or a super-sub long-term. And given the financial realities of the franchise at the moment, that might be a heck of a lot more doable than dreaming on a massive deal for Seager, Lindor, or Story.

In any case, for now, the headline is that Kim is coming, and a whole lotta teams are really going to want him. We hope the Cubs are one of those teams, and well be tracking this story closely in the coming weeks.

Brett Taylor contributed to this post.

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Top Korean Hitter Ha-Seong Kim to Be Posted to Major League Baseball - bleachernation.com