Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Parents of students at PS 42 Annex in Eltingville are venting frustrations after learning that the school will be closed for about two weeks to undergo deep cleaning due to a mold condition.

Parents received a letter, dated Sept. 16, 2020 and signed by Principal Brian Sharkey, saying, "a recent inspection conducted by the Division of School Facilities (DSF) and the School Construction Authority (SCA) determined the Annex should undergo mold remediation, deep cleaning, sterilizing and air quality control.

The notice was issued just before Mayor Bill de Blasio delayed in-person learning, but says that cleaning the Annex which holds first and second grade classes will be ready within the next two weeks," which would be just after the anticipated Sept. 29 opening of in-person classes for K-5 students.

A DOE spokesman said he expects the building to be safe in time for the new date set for the opening of in-person learning.

Parents, however, are not convinced the cleaning will be done in time and feel the issue should have been noticed sooner.

Thats a very short timeline to get rid of that amount of mold, said a parent of a second-grade student there. The parent wished to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal. So, the parents dont believe its going to be fixed in two weeks, the parent said.

Construction began on the buildings masonry early this year, but the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak stunted the work and left the building exposed, parents claim.

They up and left and abandoned the job, and they never came back to it, so they never sealed it, never covered it, never came back to check on it ... the building was left to rot from the outside in and just (got) saturated with water for six months, the parent said.

The Department of Education (DOE) confirmed that the exterior masonry work was scheduled to be done in the spring before being put on hold. Mold caused by leaks was then discovered in the school this summer.

While the second-grade parent did not witness the conditions herself, she said teachers informed her that mold was present on the tables and chairs making the classrooms uninhabitable.

Issues of water damage are not new at the PS 42 Annex building, Department of Buildings (DOB) records show.

There are 17 open Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings/Environment Control Board violations for the PS 42 annex building dating back to 2011, according to the DOB records. These violations are issued when a property does not comply with a part of the New York City Construction Codes and or Zoning Resolution.

When asked, a DOE spokesperson confirmed that the DOB records are out of date. It is not clear how many of those violations have been rectified.

The violations note water penetration through foundation that leads to a gas meter and electrical room and other issues, such as standing water being observed at the time of inspection. The most recent water violation, issued on Aug. 30, 2019, said there was water penetrating through walls, causing peeling and spalling at various locations.

I dont feel confident that our children should have been in there for years, the parent of the second-grade student said. So, to now find out weve been lied to for this long, its the worst, its the worst feeling.

Coryn, a parent of a third-grade student who attended the Annex for two years, wished to have her last name omitted, but said she first noticed mold as an issue on her sons very first day of first grade.

I have pictures of my son in the classroom and the condition of the wall behind him, Coryn said. I took a picture of him and my daughter and you can see it in the background.

You can see something visibly wrong with the wall, she said.

After suggesting there could be an issue with the presence of water damage in the wall and suggesting it be resolved, Coryn said she attempted to file Freedom of Information Law requests to receive air quality reports for the building all to no avail.

At that point, Im so annoyed that I basically got the run-around for three months, she said.

While Coryns child is no longer learning in the annex, she shares in other parents' concerns that the building could potentially be unsafe, even after students are brought back into the building.

My kids not in there anymore, but I would not want my kid in the building unless I was shown proof that it was safe to go in there," Coryn said. As a mom, who would want their kid there?

Nathaniel Styer, a spokesman for the DOE, said work is being done around the clock ahead of students entering New York City schools.

Our educators and students deserve safe, clean schools during this critical school year,'' Styer said. "Our facilities teams continue to work around the clock to address any concerns and ensure buildings are prepared for reopening. Both the School Construction Authority and School Facilities teams are performing repairs, cleaning, painting and disinfecting work to safely reopen the building with the resumption of in-person learning on the 29th.

Principal Brian Sharkey did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment.

In the letter to parents, Sharkey wrote, Your childs and my staffs health and safety is our number one priority.

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Parents at PS 42 annex vent frustrations after mold discovered in school - SILive.com

MOON TOWNSHIP, Pa., Sept. 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Amid the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic, the disinfection industry has boomed. Bactronix, a disinfection company with revolutionary technology, has risen to the top in the market throughout the industry's growth thanks to a diverse offering of services and products.

Due to the pandemic, consumers have become more health aware and the numbers prove it. According to a recent study by Global View Research, "the global surface disinfectant market size was estimated at USD 1.4 billion in 2019 and is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.6% from 2020 to 2027." (1) Yet another study by Arizton states that the electrostatic sprayer segment of the market is expected to reach $1.9 billion or more by 2025 (2). Companies like Bactronix, which began driving franchise expansion this year, are benefiting from the country's awareness and push towards more healthy and safe living conditions.

According to Jos Kleynjans, President and CEO of Bactronix and one of the founders of the company, there are many companies in the present market that specialize in one area or another, but not in all areas. "There are labs that do testing, companies the produce disinfectants and sell products retail, businesses that specialize in cleaning, treating and disinfection, but none that do it all," Kleynjans said. "Bactronix is the one 'One-Stop-Shop' for all of the above. This is the reason that Bactronix is recognized as one of the Top Franchising companies in the U.S."

Bactronix finds itself in the middle of the boom thanks to its diversified product and services that cover many disinfection industry segments: on-site testing and inspection, specialized disinfection and cleaning, proprietary product lines and distribution channels, and disinfection certification. Bactronix ensures 100% coverage through an electrostatically charged process that doesn't produce harmful VOCs or by-products. Other services provided by Bactronix include dryer vent and air duct cleaning, mold remediation, vapor barriers, and insecticide treatment.

Bactronix invites those interested in learning more about their diversified list of services to their website atwww.Bactronix.com. To learn more about the Bactronix franchise opportunity, visit their website athttp://www.bactronix.com/franchising-opportunities.

ABOUT Bactronix

Bactronix is an award-winning, science-based microbial control company that uses proprietary products and advanced equipment for a wide range of mold removal and disinfection services. Their certified personnel are highly trained in administering effective, eco-friendly disinfection treatments to commercial and residential facilities.

1https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/surface-disinfectant-market

2https://www.reportlinker.com/p05955552/Electrostatic-Disinfectant-Sprayer-Market-Global-Outlook-and-Forecast.html?utm_source=PRN

Media contact:Jos Kleynjans412-375-7886http://www.Bactronix.com

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Bactronix Flourishes Amidst Disinfection Industry Boom - The Wellsboro Gazette

ELLSWORTH Roughly $4.22 million in construction has been permitted in the city since the beginning of May, a figure that, despite pandemic restrictions and lifestyle shifts, remained almost unchanged compared to the same timeframe last year.

City staff issued 79 building permits for $4.27 million in construction between the beginning of May and the end of August 2019, compared to 80 permits and $4.22 million during those months this year, according to records.

But while the numbers are quite close, there were some differences: the bulk of this years permitting occurred in May and July, with permits issued for a total of $1.59 million and $1.44 million, respectively, in construction during those months. But that fell off in June and August, with fewer new homes and commercial projects on the docket, replaced with smaller, residential undertakings such as bathroom additions and woodshed construction.

Last year, May, June and July all saw more than $1 million in construction permitted each month, with building slowing significantly in August to less than $200,000 in total.

Both years saw a mix of residential and commercial development, with residents building sheds and decks, pouring driveway slabs and, in one instance, putting in an in-ground pool.

A number of new single-family homes were permitted this summer as well, including a 1,680-square-foot, $315,000 home on Birch Avenue for Susan Opdycke, a 2,439-square-foot, $280,000 home on the Nicolin Road for James Testa and a 1,638-square-foot modular home estimated to cost $248,586 on Ginnie May Way built by Broughman Builders Inc. On Wilson Way, Cheryl Jacobs VanPeursem was issued permits to build a single-family home valued at $280,000 with a basement to replace a camp and Sara Devlin and Matthew Dewitt were issued permits to build a $255,000, three-bedroom home on the Red Bridge Road.

On the commercial side, Ruger Properties LLC, one of the companies owned by local builder Jonathan Bates, was issued permits for a $900,000, 12-unit apartment building on Ruger Way, off Washington Street. The building is part of Bates Washington LUXE complex. Eastern Mold Remediation also received permits for a $92,502, 3,600-square-foot addition to its space on the Nicolin Road and the landscaping company Homsted Earthworks Inc. was issued permits for a commercial building on the Bangor Road estimated to cost $80,000.

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Over $4M in new city construction permitted - The Ellsworth American

Loudon County Courthouse is nearing the end of phase one renovations following weather delays earlier in the year.

Rainfall and safety concerns in May pushed the project 35 days behind schedule. The project is now progressing on a new schedule accounting for the 35-day delay.

We are close to schedule at this time, Susan Huskey, Loudon County purchasing director, said in an email correspondence. The delays in the early stage of this phase were due to the number of rain days. Once the structure was stabilized and the temporary roof installed, it allowed inside work to continue on schedule with the removal of debris and wet materials from the interior.

Loudon County Mayor Rollen Buddy Bradshaw said now that courthouse windows are sealed, the project should pick up momentum.

If you drive by there, youll notice the windows are out, everythings sealed, Bradshaw said. Weve got the air exchange unit running. Its just a matter of how quick they can get everything dried out and when its safe to go in really without respirators. That being said, once we get it there, I believe well see progress move pretty quick. Were going to be in the dry, so the work is not going to be so dependent on good weather. So whether rain or shine, once we get inside to work, well be in good shape, and Ive talked with several stakeholders as well as insurance and my purchasing director, Susan Huskey. Were going to get her back the way she was when we left and get it ready and get it open for business.

Stabilization of the building was completed in July. Construction workers are now focusing on mold remediation, dehumidifying the building and general cleanup. The building will then be inspected for cleanliness before a fungicidal coating is applied and a final inspection completed.

The architect is currently working with the contractor to establish a cost proposal for completing the restoration and reconstruction, which is considered phase 2 and ultimately the final phase, Huskey said.

Huskey said COVID-19 had a limited effect on the construction side of phase one, but created financial obstacles during discussion of an annex or addition to the original courthouse.

We scrounged everything, every dollar we could to put into this upcoming budget, this budget were in now, Bradshaw said. So I think the talk is there, I dont think its going to be immediate. Maybe a year or two years, maybe three years down the road we start looking at the annex or the expansion, whichever way commission chooses to go. Just with this whole COVID deal, we were really unsure about budgets and numbers and revenue coming in.

Bradshaw believes it will be well into 2022 or 2023 before Loudon County Commission continues annex discussions.

Weve been very good here in Loudon County, he said. Our revenues are extremely good and really above and beyond what we were expecting even coming in. But that being said, theres still a lot of unknowns, especially with the election coming up this November as far as how the revenues are going to maintain over the next little stretch of time. Well see how that goes. Its not off the table, but its not on the forefront either.

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Slow going on courthouse renovations | News - news-herald.net

A company based in Green Bay launches their new services aimed at helping their Wisconsin clients remove musty odors and harmful germs and viruses from their properties.

A company based in Green Bay launches their new services aimed at helping their Wisconsin clients remove musty odors and harmful germs and viruses from their properties.

CCS Property Services LLC launches their sanitation and odor elimination services, adding to their line of property repair and preservation solutions. Headquartered in Green Bay, the general contractors are well positioned to serve both residential and commercial clients throughout the state of Wisconsin.

Additional information can be found at https://ccspps.com

The companys newest launch is in keeping with the standards set by the CDC for sanitation and odor eliminator systems. Simple and cost-effective, the services can effectively neutralize bacteria, viruses, pet allergens, and harmful germs.

The process utilizes a spray and fog system that quickly and efficiently applies the companys proprietary products. This serves as a modern alternative to the more labor-intensive techniques found in outdated and less effective sanitation methods.

The experts often advise their clients that musty odors are often a sign of lingering bacterial contaminants. Beyond ridding spaces of the unpleasant smells, the team works on addressing these contaminants at their source before they get a chance to grow or mutate.

The companys commitment to using only quality products that are people, pet, and planet friendly means that their services can be safely administered in any setting. They usually cater to private homes, day care centers, schools, offices, gyms, hotels, restaurants, and manufacturing settings.

One of their satisfied clients states, CCS Property Services helped us with an odor problem at our house. We always had a stale smell from our basement. We spoke with the owner of CCS who shared with us a new product that they have been working with for odor elimination and sanitization. We decided to try it and it worked wonderfully. The house now smells fresh without the bad odor.

Aside from sanitation and odor elimination, CCS Property Services LLC is also well-trusted when it comes to water damage restoration, mold removal and remediation, fire restoration, and home inspection repairs. Their professional staff are available round the clock for emergency cases and are usually able to respond within an hour of receiving service calls.

Interested parties may visit the above website to learn more or call (920) 435-2288 to schedule a free assessment.

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Green Bay WI Sanitation And Odor Removal Services CDC Approved Systems Launched - Newswire

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Events DC, WashingtonDC's Official Convention and Sports Authority, announced its partnership with SurfaceGuard to deploy its high-grade COVID-19 remediation and health and safety reporting system at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Entertainment and Sports Arena, DC Armory and The Fields at RFK Campus as part of their venues' health and safety reopening efforts.

Events DC venues will be the first facilities in the nation to implement this first-of-its-kind safety protection and the Walter E. Washington Convention Center is the first the convention center to deploy this COVID-19 remediation. SurfaceGuard is a Washington, DC-based specialty coating company combining an EPA N List disinfectant with advanced technology designed to kill COVID-19.

"Events DC is dedicated to bringing operational safety procedures and cleaning standards to the next level and SurfaceGuard is a prime example of this," stated Gregory A. O'Dell, president and chief executive officer of Events DC. "Thewellbeing of our attendees, vendors and employees is first and foremost in our minds. The Convention Center, along with the Entertainment and Sports Arena, DC Armory, and Fields at RFK Stadium will be treated regularly by SurfaceGuard to kill COVID-19 and inhibit the spread of viruses. bacteria and germs. Events DC is focused on being a leader and advancing safety in the convention, sports and entertainment industries and partnering with SurfaceGuard is at the heart of this effort. We believe these actions will continue to help keep all customers, their attendees and our employees safe in these uncertain times."

SurfaceGuard uses BIOPROTECTTM, a groundbreaking, water-based non-toxic antimicrobial (Si-QUAT) that forms a durable surface protectant that inhibits the growth and spread of bacteria, mold, mildew, fungi and algae on both porous and non-porous surfaces for 90 days. Health and safety remediation data provided to EVENTS DC executives through SurfaceSafe, the company's digital sanitation and Covid remediation platform delivering unprecedented access to risk mitigation and quality assurance data.

The Global Virus Network, a coalition comprised of the world's preeminent human and animal virologists from 53 Centers of Excellence and 10 Affiliates in 32 countries, announced that two of its Centers of Excellence, the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity in Melbourne, Australia and the Rega Medical Research Institute of KU Leuven, Belgium, have confirmed that BIOPROTECT kills SARS-CoV-2 (the unique coronavirus that causes COVID-19) on surfaces and provides continuous residual viricidal activity for more than six weeks.

"We are honored to be selected by Events DC to partner with them in their effort to protect their attendees, vendors, community partners and employees. As a leader in the convention industry, Events DC continues to set the pace for safety and protection. We are pleased to be a part of this team," said Aubrey Vaughan, Managing Director of SurfaceGuard.

SurfaceGuard technicians use electrostatic sprayers, which use state of the art sprayer technology engineered specifically to positively charge atoms that, upon discharge from the sprayer, attach strongly to negatively charged atoms on surfaces. This enables the electrostatic spray to wrap around surfaces in a way that human hands simply cannot touch ensuring the greatest possible coverage of surface area. The disinfectant and antimicrobial products used by SurfaceGuard are nontoxic and safe for food preparation surfaces, the environment, humans, and pets.

About Events DCEvents DC, the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia, delivers premier event services and flexible venues across the nation's capital. Leveraging the power of a world-class destination and creating amazing attendee experiences, Events DC generates economic and community benefits through the attraction and promotion of business, athletic, entertainment and cultural activities. Events DC oversees the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, an anchor of the District's hospitality and tourism economy that hosts more than 1.7 million visitors and generates more than $400 million annually in total economic impact, and the historic Carnegie Library at Mt. Vernon Square. Events DC manages the RFK Stadium-Armory Campus (RFK Campus), including Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium, Festival Grounds at RFK Campus, The Fields at RFK Campus, the non-military functions of the DC Armory and the Skate Park at RFK Stadium. Stay current on the 190-acre RFK Campus Redevelopment Project at http://www.RFKCampus.com. Events DC also built and serves as landlord for Nationals Park, the first LEED-certified major professional sports stadium in the United States. Events DC manages Gateway DC, R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center and the Entertainment and Sports Arena (www.ESAontheRise.com), all conveniently located in the Congress Heights neighborhood of Washington, DC.

About SurfaceGuardSurfaceGuard LLC, is a Washington, DC based specialized safety coating company that deploys innovative and environmentally responsible solutions to protect surfaces and common touch points from Covid, bacteria, viruses, and other types of microbial contaminants. The products used by SurfaceGuard are non-toxic, EPA registered and safe for food surface contact. Risk mitigation and quality assurance data are provided through SurfaceSafe, the company's digital sanitation and Covid remediation platform. SurfaceGuard specializes in convention centers, arena and large format properties.

Social Media: Facebook/Instagram @SurfaceGuardUSAWebsite: http://www.surfaceguardusa.com

Contact:Ashley Forrester202-439-7109aforrester@eventsdc.com

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Events DC Deploys The SurfaceGuard System To Protect Its Facilities And Attendees - WFMZ Allentown

Four felony offenses were certified this week against the co-owner of a Roanoke home renovation and roofing company who is accused of failing to do construction work he was paid to perform.

Nathan Jay Laurain is a partner in HomeFront Renovations on Colonial Avenue. The four active counts against him are scheduled to be considered by a grand jury in October.

At his hearing Thursday in Roanoke General District Court, Laurain, 37, also saw the dismissal of five misdemeanor counts of working without a license.

A state police search warrant filed in July said that at least six HomeFront Renovations customers have claimed they paid for work that was not done. It claimed the operations in question had been undertaken in Botetourt, Bedford, Giles and Roanoke counties, and in the cities of Roanoke and Salem.

The warrant also says that since last October, the business has banked more than $1.25 million worth of checks.

On Friday, Laurain was also indicted in Salem Circuit Court on one count of construction fraud, according to Commonwealths Attorney Tom Bowers. A court date has not yet been set.

In August, Laurain resolved an embezzlement charge involving another company, ZJ Home Improvements, by pleading no contest to a reduced count of grand larceny. The three-year prison term he received was suspended in its entirety, but he was ordered to pay $45,000 in restitution to the company at a minimum of $300 a month.

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Charges certified against owner of Roanoke home renovation company accused of taking money but not doing work - Roanoke Times

9/16/2020

Paula Keefe, right, explains how a retaining wall and old stone stairs were restored at the old Tower House on Mendon Road. Partner Jeff Polucha is at left. (Breeze photos by Ethan Shorey)

CUMBERLAND Two weeks ago was the low point for the local couple restoring the Tower House at 2211 Mendon Road. Endless jackhammering of ledge in the basement and chipping of old mortar from some 6,000 bricks had led to deep discouragement, said Jeff Polucha and Paula Keefe.

But the two say they have turned the corner, getting a second wind after a new floor was poured in the basement and they reached the point of starting to put the 1825 home back together after a demolition phase of three months and the reinforcement of the homes main floor.

This week weve turned a corner, said Polucha during an impromptu tour of the property last week.

The couple said people stop by all the time, curious about what theyre up to after watching the home sit vacant for decades. They say theyve received all kinds of offers to help, which they appreciate but most of which they cant take people up on.

The main level of the home is now shored up and most of the rot has been removed. Polucha and Keefe have scraped off nearly all of the paint from the home and built a 12-foot by 13-foot new addition to function as the mudroom.

Polucha and Keefe say theyre getting closer every day to deciding to move into the home themselves but havent yet made that commitment.

The home, they said, will be perfect for a professional who works from home, with the basement/walkout level, including an entrance under a unique second-floor porch, having an ideal layout for living and working. It would also be great for either an in-law space or game room, they said.

Much of the granite around the property will be repurposed in the outdoor entertaining areas and other parts of the property, and four new granite posts have been added to the front of the property, running past a new driveway now located to the left of the house.

Keefe and Polucha say there has been significant interest in their corner lot next to the home, which was created by the town to help facilitate the old homes redevelopment, but so far havent sold it.

Extensive tree work has also been done, and piles of bricks and old lumber are stacked outside awaiting potential re-use. The two said they probably wont be able to use all of the granite on the property, but will certainly be able to use a lot of it, including in the outdoor space next to the new front door off the main driveway.

While some items will see major modern upgrades, including a new gas fireplace, other original features will be maintained, including a 42-inch front door thats something special, said Polucha. The old windows next to that front door arent salvageable and will be replaced by wooden Anderson 400 windows previously discussed with members of the Cumberland Historic District Commission. Two new doors will also be added.

The pair removed a cement apron around the foundation that they said was functioning to retain moisture and harbor insects. Old stone stairs have also been rebuilt. The owners dont plan to put a new fence back up near the street, instead sticking just with the old granite posts.

New utilities were also added during the demolition phase, with sewer pipes running under the newly poured concrete floor in the basement.

The 2,100-square-foot home will have three bedrooms and two full bathrooms when complete, with a storage/utility room included in the back of the basement. That room will be important without a garage or shed space, said Polucha. An old outhouse will be restored, likely as a small shed space.

Despite all of the issues with the home, including immense damage from insects previously compromising it, the home overall has proven solid with its post-and-beam construction, said the owners.

Riva Homes, which specializes in restoring old houses, is the contractor on the project, and Cruz Construction of Cumberland is doing much of the exterior work.

Keefe and Polucha, Cumberland residents who enjoy restoring homes as a hobby, say they have no regrets about tackling the project, saying theyve been fortunate to have the the right people around them advising them on the work. That said, a project of this complexity brings never-ending issues.

We had identified all possibilities, and all possibilities did come to fruition, said Polucha, laughing.

Jeff Polucha stacks some of the old lumber taken from the Tower House in Cumberland, much of which will be reincorporated into the home. At rear is an old outhouse that will be restored as part of the project.

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Couple turn the corner on restoration of Tower House - Valley Breeze

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Lambda Theta Chapter President Skyye Robinson and First Vice President Ranique Daniel.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. The Lambda Theta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta SororityInc. started the semester in a newly renovated house. The renovation, which was completed over the summer, has already created better visibility for the sorority, which residents believe will also impact equity for other historically Black organizations and African American students at the University of Arkansas.

The project, overseen by Facilities Management, transformed the original duplex into a modern multi-level sorority house. Contractors merged the two spaces, converted one kitchen to a living space, added an accessible bathroom and spare room, and made modifications to the existing bedrooms and bathrooms.

The sorority's previous house on North Duncan had been the place of many fond memories, but extensive structural damage to the building and maintenance concerns forced the switch to the duplex on Stadium Drive. Although initially hesitant about the move, the completion of the project has the tenants excited about the future possibilities of the house.

"We were just so excited to see the vision that we had been talking about with Facilities Management come to life," said Skyye Robinson, president Lambda Theta Chapter. "Honestly, they exceeded my expectations. What I expected was a great looking house that was livable, but I got much more than that. We got much more than that. We will definitely miss the history from 3 North Duncan, but we'll always have that. So we're grateful for this new beginning and extremely excited with the new relationship we have with Facilities Management because of the work that they've done here."

"I am extremely pleased with the renovation and teamwork from across the University to make this project a reality," said Parice Bowser, director of Greek Life. "For years, the Lambda Theta Chapter has continued to pave the way for many African American students on the UofA campus. They are actively involved and work diligently to make a difference in all they do through scholastic, social, and educational programming efforts. It's a joy to see them excited about their new home and the memories that will be made on Stadium Drive."

Involvement in a renovation process was a new experience for the women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., and the short timeframe made it additionally challenging. However, they credit the success to the relationships built with Facilities Management, the coordinators involved, and the expectations set by Vice Chancellor Mike Johnson.

"Mike really set the tone, and I think that makes all the difference. His leadership from day one laid a path for his team to follow," said Karrie Claybrook, primary advisor of the Lambda Theta Chapter.

"It also speaks to the value of having diverse coordinators on all university projects," Claybrook said. "Take Vel for example (Vel Moses, construction coordinator). As an African American, he brings a different perspective to the team. His understanding of our organization's rich history including the inequities the chapter has overcome in the past, shows in his attention to detail on the project."

The new house is located closer to the other sorority and fraternity houses on campus and is expected to help with awareness of the sorority. The women believe this will go a long way in increasing minority representation on campus.

"We're more visible," Robinson said. "Our presence has grown stronger just by a location change. And like I said, just being able to see us will make [other students] go research us to see what we're about and what we stand for."

Ranique Daniel, first vice president of the Lambda Theta Chapter, added, "It's what we needed to be able to head in the right direction towards creating equity for African American students as well."

Reflecting on the process, Claybrook said she believes the experience was an opportunity for personal growth for the women, which will impact them and future members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for years to come.

"I can see a change in them and their confidence and their belief in who they are and what they can accomplish. That's what a house can do. It's so small. It's so simple, but it's powerful."

About Delta Sigma Theta:The Lambda Theta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. was established in 1974 on the University of Arkansas campus as the first National Pan-Hellenic Council organization. A private, not-for-profit organization, Delta Sigma Theta Sororityis focused on the constructive development of its members and to public service with a primary focus on the Black community.

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Delta Sigma Theta Sorority House Renovation Creates Added Visibility - University of Arkansas Newswire

The Magnolia owners built a business based on what they love the most, so there is no doubt that their house is more than amazing. Their place is exquisitely decorated and filled with lots of love from their adorable family.

The home renovation gurus 45-year-old Chip Gaines and wife 42-year-old Joanna Gaines are usually sharing snapshots on their social media to show their fans and interior design admirers a glimpse of their gorgeous house.

The former Fixer Upper hosts are the owners of a Victorian-style house in Waco, Texas, which they bought in 2012, and sits on more than 40 acres. The residence, which they called The Farmhouse is home for them both and their five beautiful young children.

Being the favorite renovation and decoration expert duo in recent years, it is not surprising that the couple put all their hearts into remodeling their own house. So they did not move into the property until one and a half years later when they finally turned the house into their dream come true.

THE FARMHOUSE

Originally, the house had two bedrooms, but the Gaines brilliant ideas turned the place suitable for Drake, Ella Rose, Duke, Emmie Kay, and Crew, their lovely and playful kids. Three bathrooms and a couple of sitting rooms are perfect for the bunch to play, study, and even build puzzles together.

The kitchen must be Chip and Jos favorite place. It is big enough to even have the kids around while the parents make their meals. It is decorated in a white country-style, has a perfect marble island in the middle, and features lots of space to keep their stainless steel appliances.

Inside the house, the different spaces are open and filled with natural bright light during the day. White walls and neutral tones are key in the decoration but there are many details all over like a plant, a lamp, or a big picture. The residence also features large outdoors with gardens, a greenhouse, and a chicken coop, where the kids love to spend time playing around.

FAMILY MATTERS

The couple met after Chip knew Joanna was the daughter of the owner of the place where he used to fix his cars tires. He found a way to ask her out, and in 2003, a year later, they were getting married.

They joined forces as Chip had a love for renovating homes and Joanna for decoration. Their first project was their first house, and from then on they built their successful path. However, they have been open about the importance of family and that their kids come first.

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Glimpse inside the Perfect Home of 'Fixer Upper' Stars Chip and Joanna Gaines - AmoMama