Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

The entire progress of their attempt can be seen on their Facebook page, VentilaTM. Short time ago, one of the team members announced their four prototype enters into production, after improving their work up until the doctors approved the mechanism.

According to http://www.start-up.ro, theproject was initiated by Radu Ticiu, and a design team made up of specialists from Symme3D, led by Clin Brandabur (the Timisoara startup has created 3 years ago a 3D bio-printer that can print live tissue). The prototyped versions of the ventilator were tested with doctors from the Pius Branzeu Center of UMFT by spirometry methods but also on animals from the biobase of the center.

Same source mentions thatThe Symme3D founder stated that the production price of the device will not exceed EUR 200 euros, and we will offer them free of charge with the help of several foundations including eMAG, BMW and many more (the list is very long) in hospitals in Romania and beyond.

VentilaTM team is also looking for 3D printers owners who want to help out with this project. You can notice them using this form.

Moreover, up until now, in Timisoara, the team behind VentilaTM has developed a separation flow and decontamination area for medical personnel entering and leaving the patient care section of the ICU section of the Orthopedics department of the County Hospital, and also a quick wiring for the installation of a Centralized Patient Monitoring System in the same section.

See more here:
The initiative group VentilaTM to create first ventilators with 3D printed components - Business Review

According to the United States Energy Information Administration, space heating and air conditioning make up more than half of the average homes energy consumption. If youre looking to cut down on your heating and cooling costs, a smart thermostat is a solution.

The latest smart thermostats include features like remote sensors, geofencing, AI machine learning, automation, scheduling, and much more. Because they can run your homes climate systems (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, or HVAC) more efficiently, theres a sustainability factor as well. Our guide recommends models that are a breeze to install, could help increase energy savings, and are effortless to operate whether manually, using an app, or over voice control.

When we examined each model, we considered its smart features, automation capabilities, and capacity for energy savings. We also noted how easy they are to install and operate. We explain our testing and research procedures in more detail as well as other models we looked at that didnt make the cut.

Our pick for the best smart thermostat overall is the Google Nest Thermostat E, which is also our pick for the best thermostat in general. We like it because its well-priced and it ticks the boxes on our checklist.

Updated on 3/30/2020 by James Brains: We selected new recommendations based on new research and testing. We also noted what other smart thermostats we looked at, as well as how we picked which to recommend.

The Thermostat E (model number T4000ES) from Google Nest is a more affordable yet feature-rich version of the flagship Learning Thermostat (third generation). Its not only our pick for the best smart thermostat overall, its also our best thermostat recommendation overall.

With the companion Nest app on your phone, you can control your homes HVAC system from anywhere, since the Thermostat E is connected to your home Wi-Fi. The app also guides you with simple instructions for installation, saving energy, and making temperature adjustments.

You can use the app to easily set up a schedule that keeps you feeling comfortable while at home, and save on energy costs when youre away or asleep. With its built-in sensor and geofencing feature, the thermostat can also turn down the heat or AC when you leave the house (additional sensors can be installed for larger homes). Nest has a learning function that automatically makes adjustments or recommendations based on your energy usage history. It supports both Alexa and Google Assistant, but it plays better with the latter, of course.

Although it functions like the more expensive Learning Thermostat, it only comes in durable white plastic (the Learning Thermostat is made out of metal and comes in many colors); it has a lower-resolution display that can be difficult to read; and its compatible with 85% of HVAC systems (compared to 95% for the Learning Thermostat). You also cant pull up the time or weather on the display, as you can on the higher-end model.

However, the Thermostat E offers the same great smart functions as its sibling: Remote control, auto temperature adjustment, and the ability to learn your household habits and adjust the climate accordingly. As long as your HVAC system is compatible and you can do without the frills, the Thermostat E is a great buy. We also think the white plastic looks good, too.

Pros: Excellent app, features eco mode with geofencing, uses machine-learning AI to optimize your schedule, simple installation, attractive look

Cons: Doesnt work with most non-Nest/Alexa devices, the screen is difficult to read due to low contrast, doesnt support all HVAC systems

The third-generation Google Nest Learning Thermostat (model number T3007ES) and our top pick, the Thermostat E, share a lot in common. Both work with several two-wire systems. Both integrate well with Google Nest smart devices and support Alexa. And, both have outstanding learning capabilities: The thermostats will start heating or cooling based on how long it takes for your home to adjust to the setpoints you have scheduled, so the temp will be where you want it, when you want it.

The biggest differences between Google Nests top thermostats is the Learning Thermostat has a two-year warranty (versus one-year for the E), the Learning Thermostats big display has a higher contrast for easier readability, and this model only costs about $45 more.

The Learning Thermostat is also available in four trims to complement your dcor: stainless steel, bronze, copper, and white. If a longer warranty, higher contrast display, and choice of trim are important to you, this model may be worth the extra expenditure. Otherwise the Thermostat E works just as well with most HVAC systems.

Whether you pick this or the Thermostat E, both are solid options.

Pros: Learns from your behaviors and your homes thermal characteristics, geofencing, works with Google and Alexa smart home, easy to install, terrific app, high-contrast display

Cons: Pricier than Thermostat E with nearly the same functions

The Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat (model number ST55) stands out because it provides many of the same high-end features found in top-of-the-line smart thermostats that cost twice as much. The intuitive app has several video tutorials that make installation and programming tasks a breeze. And, it works with Amazons Alexa.

You can set up geofencing in the app and also choose a custom flexible schedule. Saving on your energy bills is effortless thanks to the usage report generated by the device. If there are extreme temperature or humidity conditions in your home, the app will send you notifications immediately so you can avoid potential problems.

The unit itself looks more like a traditional thermostat and less like a smart home device. If you want the latter, Emerson has the newer Sensi ST75, but it costs $50 more and requires a C-wire.

Note: The first-generation Sensi Thermostat was recalled due to fire safety issues. You probably wont find this model for sale anywhere, but do make sure you buy one from a reputable retailer.

Pros: Accurate temperature readings, the app makes installation effortless, access HVAC settings from anywhere, custom temperature control settings and options, cheapest of our recommendations

Cons: Requires a strong Wi-Fi signal, not compatible with all smart home products

The GoControl Z-Wave Battery-Powered Smart Thermostat (model number BRO-NTBZ48) takes a unique approach to the smart paradigm. Rather than connecting to your homes Wi-Fi for remote access, the GoControl unit relies upon Z-wave technology. This has its pitfalls and advantages. Z-wave is great because it doesnt require much power so it can be used in a two-wire setup with batteries, or you can power it using a C-wire.

However, to get many of the features common in most smart thermostats, you have to rely heavily on your Z-wave hub or controller. One of the most popular solutions is the Samsung SmartThings hub, which allows you to adjust your homes setpoint from anywhere and to make a schedule. Unfortunately, on its own without a good Z-wave hub, the GoControl unit is basically just a non-programmable digital thermostat.

Pros: Affordable, uses low power-consuming Z-wave technology, doesnt require C-wire, can be battery-powered, can control multi-stage heating and cooling appliances

Cons: Requires a high-quality Z-wave smart home hub for most common smart features, including remote access and programming

All of our recommendations support voice assistants via a smart speaker, but the Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control is unique in that it has a built-in Alexa smart speaker, similar to an Amazon echo product. That means the SmartThermostat not only controls your homes climate system, but it can also stream podcasts and music, send messages or make calls, control other Alexa-compatible devices, and other skills you would use Alexa for.

If you already have Amazon Echo devices installed in your home, adding another one might be overkill. But, if youre outfitting your home to be smart from scratch or you hate having devices littered all over the house, this hybrid thermostat/smart speaker is an elegant solution. When placed in a social area, you can also use it for entertaining.

The SmartThermostat comes with a SmartSensor, which takes temperature readings and senses occupancy in the room where you place it. It reports this information back to the thermostat, which then adjusts the heat or AC.

I installed the SmartThermostat with two SmartSensors in my house. The sensors do a great job of taking accurate temperature readings and help regulate the comfort settings in my drafty, three-story house. I had a little trouble keeping the SmartSensors connected at first, but this was due to a bug in earlier models; Ecobee has since fixed this problem.

I like that I can easily set up a schedule using the app. And, after a few minor tweaks during first use, I no longer have to think about adjusting the thermostat anymore.

Although its fun to ask my thermostat to tell my Roomba to start cleaning, I ultimately found the voice control to be more of a novelty. On the other hand, the speaker is quite useful: My thermostat is in the dining room, where its nice to have a little background music once in a while.

Pros: Dual-band Wi-Fi, built-in Alexa, high-quality speaker, works with the most popular home automation systems, intuitive app

Cons: Doesnt work with all HVAC systems, difficulty connecting remote sensors

While researching this guide, we considered dozens of smart thermostat models. Here are five that just missed the cut.

Honeywell Home RCHT8612WF T5 Plus Wi-Fi Touchscreen: Theres a lot to like about this thermostat. Its affordable, supports Apple HomeKit and Alexa, and according to expert sites, like The Wirecutter, it works as advertised. However, it isnt as easy to use as the models in our guide, and you need a C-wire to install it. It also lacks the high-end features you find with the Nest and Ecobee units, like auto-creating custom schedules.

Ecobee4: The fourth-generation Ecobee was in the last update of our guide because it was the first thermostat to have a built-in digital assistant, Alexa. Plus, you can use it with a variety of other smart home systems. Its also easy to use and well designed. Though its more expensive, the latest Ecobee SmartThermostat is a better solution since it has an outstanding speaker and comes with a SmartSensor.

Honeywell RCHT9610WFSW2003 RCHT9610WFSW Home T9: This Honeywell unit comes with a remote sensor that gauges the rooms occupancy, humidity, and temperature and delivers comfort where you want it most. It also has geofencing, monthly energy reports, easy installation, and works with the most popular home automation systems, except HomeKit. Unfortunately, the thermostat doesnt allow you to use a schedule and geofencing at the same time you have to choose one or the other.

Glas by Johnson Controls: The highlight of the Glas is its artistic, transparent display that allows it to blend with the wall that its mounted on. In its resting state, theres no info on the display, but when it senses motion, it offers up the current room temperature, setpoint, and system state in large, easy-to-read characters. At this price point, one might expect all the whistles and bells, but the Glas is missing geofencing and on-thermostat password protection.

Schneider Electric Wiser Air Wi-Fi: Consumer Reports recommends this Schneider thermostat because its EcoIQ mode can learn the heating and cooling characteristics of your home and your behaviors and automatically adjust accordingly for maximum comfort. On the downside, it lacks geofencing, password protection, and the only way to create an operating schedule is in the app you cant do it on the thermostat.

There are many characteristics I look for in a high-quality smart thermostat. When possible, I test units firsthand. I also research the assessments of other established reviewers, like Consumer Reports and CNET. Im able to compare the key performance indicators of top models after looking through the manufacturers specs and analyzing my and other experts testing and research.

Installation: You can save hundreds of dollars by installing your thermostat yourself instead of hiring a professional. First, you must determine whether the thermostat is compatible with your wiring. Most manufacturers provide steps for doing this. Specifically, youll want to determine whether you have a C-wire. If not, youll need a thermostat that doesnt require a C-wire. Also, we try to find thermostats that install quickly typically in under an hour without the use of specialized tools.

Smart features: If youre shelling out the big bucks for a smart thermostat, you want the smart features. Popular features we look for are geofencing that can sense when you are home or away, learning based on your behavior and how your home heats up and cools down, remote sensors, compatibilities with digital assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, etc.), integration into smart home systems, and more.

Ease of use: Whether youre adjusting it manually, accessing it remotely via the app, or using voice controls, smart thermostats must be easy to use. This includes having an intuitive menu interface and maintaining a consistent Wi-Fi connection.

Automation: Though ease-of-use is nice, you also want to be able to set up your thermostat and forget about it. At a basic level, you should be able to schedule your thermostat to provide the most comfort when you are home and awake and to save money when you are away or asleep. Several smart features aid with the automation, such as sensors that adjust based on the temperature and occupancy of specific rooms, geofencing tracking whether youre home or away, and algorithms assessing how long it takes to heat and cool your home.

Energy savings: Though most smart thermostats are sure to pay for themselves in energy savings, the best models leverage smart features and your energy use history to save you even more. Energy Star certification is important and can earn you a rebate. All of the Wi-Fi-enabled smart thermostats in our guide are Energy Star-certified.

Link:
The best smart thermostats - Business Insider

Cleverly located in downtown Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Tarpon River Brewing is probably the most local-friendly pub youll ever find. Its also incredibly dog-friendly; patrons can bring their furry friends into the exterior portion of the brewery as they mingle and share drinks. But they needed an integrated audio system and had an issue on how to do it within their 1920s-style large space venue.

Tarpon River Brewing Company + SoundTube

Tarpons team wanted to add integrated audio to the 11,000+ square foot venue for a while, but the layout of the old, converted warehouse didnt quite lend itself to typical audio system installations. Inside the large 1920s warehouse, Tarpon had built a 1,000 square foot pub and restaurant. Tasting for site-brewed spirits and beers was hosted outside the pub, and Tarpon wanted both venues to be integrated into the same audio system. They reached out to Eric Manev of PiElectronix in Pompano Beach for the solution.

Building Layout Issues

Due to large amounts of floor space, two separate spaces, and the large brewing machines located in the venue, this project posed a huge design challenge. Coverage for each area quickly became a question for the clients budget to answer.

Budget Limitations

Since Tarpon River Brewing Company had such a generous indoor space, coupled with the fact that there were two inner buildings to be wired and fitted for speakers, it was apparent that many audio systems available werent going to be their best option. Tarpon was looking for a solution that met their budget and didnt compromise on quality.

List of Needs

In addition to the budgetary and unusual installation requirements, the Tarpon River Brewing team wanted to integrate a system that was unnoticeable no logos and little-to-no visible wiring. This is a pretty typical ask of a quality sound system; audio should be heard and not seen. According to Manev, distributed sound adds to the cozy environment where people can mingle and share a conversation without being overpowered by the sound system.

SoundTube Installation

PIElectronix discovered SoundTube and MSE Audio through a local sales representative in Fort Lauderdale. After reviewing options and going through the design needs, it was apparent that the best speakers for Tarpon River Brewing were the quality, affordable SoundTube EZ series speakers. These speakers deliver exceptional performance and met the budget requirements. With this product, the auditory environment wouldnt feel forced, and the customers would enjoy the superb intelligibility for background and foreground music.

Design Hurdles

Installation was straightforward and there were no significant challenges; however, the design-level planning was a bit difficult. Due to a large amount of space in the outer portion of the venue, speakers had to be placed strategically for maximum coverage without the loss of sound quality. Once the layout was solidified and plans were made up, the installation was fairly simple, and only complicated by the creative wire runs through surfaces so that the cables would not be visible from the customersperspectives.

Product Usage

For Tarpon River Brewings project, the following equipment was used:

8 SoundTube SM82-EZ-II (main bar and private dining room)

2 SoundTube SM82-EZ-II-WX (outdoors at the main entrance)

4 SoundTube SM52-EZ-BK (main dining area and additional bar seating)

4 SoundTube RS62-EZ (open ceiling areas)

2 SoundTube CM62-EZ-II (front retail area)

SoundTubes WX speakers were chosen for the outdoors area due to their outstanding weather performance harsh Florida conditions are no joke!

For system control and additional input, the client installed the following:

1 Ashly ne8250.70 8ch 70v Amplifier

1 dbx ZonePro 1261 DSP

1 RTI XP3 Control system processor with iPad License

1 Audio Technica ATW-1302, 2.4GHz Handheld Wireless Microphone System.

Revisiting Tarpon River Brewing Company

Tarpon River Brewings unified SoundTube sound system was installed in early 2018. Two years later, the bartenders and other employees that help run Tarpon River Brewings speak highly of the speakers and their quality when Eric Manev from PIElectronix returns for a visit. According to Manev, It seems the installation was so successful that the sound is just part of the venue and is not even thought about until we ask.

This is a huge success from a quality standpoint; the design for the SoundTube speakers are so low-profile that they simply melt into the background of the venue. Manev continued, The lack of logos on the speakers paired with their clean appearance helps avoid judgment from patrons that base opinions solely on brand names allowing them to just enjoy great sound.

Clearly, the SoundTube EZ speaker lineup was a perfect match for both Tarpon River Brewing Companys unique design needs as well as the budget they had to work with. Everyone at this venue has been able to finally enjoy a unified, non-invasive background music for entertainment, drinks, and great company.

See the original post here:
Tarpon River Brewing Company - An 11,000 Square Foot... - rAVe [PUBS]

Global Wall Grooving Machines Market 2020 by Manufacturers, Regions, Type and Application, Forecast to 2025 is a compilation of intelligent, broad research study which gives the authentic data on the global market. The report is designed by a detailed investigation of all necessary data related to the global market. All aspect of the global Wall Grooving Machines market is analyzed in thorough detail in the report to provide a review of the markets workings. The report necessities and improvement focuses are assembled following a better understanding of the progression of the market. The study demonstrates the brief profile of leading players in the industry along with their plans and current developments. It offers specific and reliable recommendations for players to better tackle challenges in the global Wall Grooving Machines market during the forecast period from 2020 to 2025.

Industry Dynamics:

The industry dynamics section of the report compiles important drivers, restraints, challenges, trends, and opportunities available in the global Wall Grooving Machines industry. The report helps players to understand how the global industry is progressing and helps them to plan effective strategies for future growth in the future. Further, the report analyzes the market status, growth rate, risks and entry barriers, sales channels, distributors and Porters Five Forces Analysis.

DOWNLOAD FREE SAMPLE REPORT: https://www.mrinsights.biz/report-detail/229199/request-sample

For each manufacturer covered, this report analyzes its global Wall Grooving Machines manufacturing sites, capacity, production, ex-factory price, revenue, and market share in the global market. The following manufacturers are covered: Zwick, Ridge Tool, Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation, MAKITA, ROTHENBERGER, Otto Baier, REMS, FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, SPARKY Power Tools, Eibenstock, ROTOX GmbH, LEISTER Technologies AG,

Based on type, the report split into: Electric Type Grooving Machines, Hydraulic Type Grooving Machines

Based on the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, consumption (sales), market share and growth rate for each application, including Electrical Wiring Installation, Cable Installation, Construction, Other

Region coverage (regional production, demand & forecast by countries, etc.): North America (United States, Canada and Mexico), Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia), South America (Brazil, Argentina, etc.), Middle East & Africa (Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa)

Data and information by manufacturer, by region, by type, by the application has been added. Consumption assessment by regions, industrial chain, upstream and downstream situation are included in this market. The report gives analysis on production, revenue, price, cost and gross margin their SWOT analysis. A thorough analysis of the key aspects like opportunities and restraints are provided in this report. The report facilitates decision-making on the basis of strong historical and outlook of the global Wall Grooving Machines market report.

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Customization of the Report:This report can be customized to meet the clients requirements. Please connect with our sales team ([emailprotected]), who will ensure that you get a report that suits your needs. You can also get in touch with our executives on +1-201-465-4211 to share your research requirements.

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Global Wall Grooving Machines Market 2020 Growth Drivers, Investment Opportunity and Product Developments 2025 - Packaging News 24

Written by Matthew Ponsford

Lawns are an American obsession. Since the mass proliferation of suburbs in the 1950s and '60s, these pristine carpets of green turf have been meticulously maintained by suburbanites, with grass length and other aesthetic considerations enforced with bylaws and by homeowner associations.

But for nature, lawns offer little. Their maintenance produces more greenhouse gases than they absorb, and they are biodiversity deserts that have contributed to vanishing insect populations. Residential lawns cover 2% of US land and require more irrigation than any agricultural crop grown in the country. Across California, more than half of household water is used outside of the house.

If attitudes toward lawn care are shifted, however, these grassy green patches represent a gigantic opportunity. In 2005, a NASA satellite study found that American residential lawns take up 49,000 square miles (128,000 square km) -- nearly equal in size to the entire country of Greece.

A small, shady garden at Kronish House, a villa by Ricahrd Neutra in Beverley Hills, California designed by Marmol Radzinerm, winner of the ASLA 2016 Professional Honor Award in Residential Design Credit: Roger Davies

According to environmental scientists, transforming lawns into miniature modular bio-reserves could not only boost biodiversity, but could cut water and petrol consumption and reduce the use of dangerous lawn chemicals.

Yet the question for many homeowners remains: how?

In Western states such as California, Colorado and Arizona, droughts have led to restrictions on water usage, forcing many to reconsider their thirsty lawns. Some inventive families and landscape architects have transformed yards, producing oases of life for hummingbirds, bees and butterflies, by employing scientific insight, design and imagination.

"This new garden model is giving people permission to play," said Cook, who has redesigned home lawns across Orange County, with an emphasis on "ecosystem-centric" design. Ripping up a generic lawn can reveal a canvas for personal creativity -- to plant with food, flowering plants and herbs, or to shape into wildlife habitats that invite in local fauna.

Yard, by 2.ink Studio, winner of the ASLA 2018 Professional Honor Award in Residential Design Credit: Stephen Miller / ASLA

"It seems to me that they are yearning for an authentic experience of nature close to home," said Cook. There is increasing evidence that close contact with natural environments can reduce stress and anxiety, and even help maintain memory as we age.

According to Cook, the families she's worked with have been delighted to reconnect with eclectic natural processes, such as watching rain cascade down water-drainage swales. "They don't want to travel to a wilderness park to see ecosystem interactions."

Nationwide Trend

What Cook sees in California reflects an emerging trend across the country. In Minnesota, homeowners have been offered rebates to replace lawns with flowering plants beloved by bees. Cities and municipalities, such as Montgomery County in Maryland, have also offered to pay families and homeowner associations to design gardens that collect storm water in water features and underground rain barrels.

A contemporary remodel of a suburban ranch home in Portland, Oregon by Courtney Skybak from Samuel H. Williamson Associates Credit: Samuel H. Williamson Associates / shwa.net

Such policies can lead to big changes. Images of intensely irrigated lawns in Phoenix, ringed by the red sand of the Arizona Desert, were once a disturbing case study of America's lawn addiction. But in recent decades, the state has taken action, charging more for water in the summer and banning lawns on new developments. At the turn of the millennium, 80% of Phoenix had green lawns, now only 14% does.

Landscape architects are seeing families change their preferences, according to a recent poll by the National Wildlife Federation's (NWF) Garden for Wildlife initiative, which encourages Americans to design gardens with food, water and shelter for wild animals.

A graphic patterned garden in Portland, Oregon by Courtney Skybak from Samuel H. Williamson Associates Credit: Samuel H. Williamson Associates / shwa.net

Changing Tastes

These gardens today represent around 3,600 acres. According to Green America, they have the potential over the next 10 years to capture the carbon equivalent to taking 70,000 cars off the road for an entire year.

Xeriscape Colorado, a program by non-profit Colorado WaterWise, promotes water-saving approaches to landscaping Credit: Kristen Vance

"I think homeowners are trying to seek a higher sense of community, and so they want to be in their front yard, interacting with their neighbors," she added.

Faced with the choice between a wildlife garden or astroturf -- the latter has also become increasingly popular in drought-hit areas -- Mary Phillips, senior director of NWW, urges people to consider nature. She refers to recent research that shows wildlife gardens can support bee biodiversity comparable to natural parklands and, as a result, a greater number and diversity of birds, especially songbirds.

Yard, by 2.ink Studio, winner of the ASLA 2018 Professional Honor Award in Residential Design Credit: Stephen Miller / ASLA

"When we share those kinds of stories, that is what's motivating people," said Phillips. "Because they're actually seeing on the ground, visually, these bees and these butterflies and the birds visiting the property, and they see that they can make a significant difference."

A Few Simple Rules

Even small changes can make a difference to the environmental impact of lawns. The "entry-level option," according to Philips, for families that still want room for their kids to play, is to inject more wildflowers into the turf. That includes plants that are typically viewed as nuisances.

"The stuff that people are usually trying to get out of their lawn, we're saying 'No, that's good to have in your lawn!'" said Philips. "So reintroduce native violets -- and even dandelions -- certain clovers, low-growing thyme and things that flower, which provide pollinator benefits and are better for the soil."

Once a wasteland, Tessa Charnofsky planted hundreds of California native plants and built decks and stairways. "Within a couple of years, it was transformed into a wildlife paradise, and became a Certified Wildlife Habitat. So many species of bumble bee and sweat bee, butterflies and moths, lizards, migrating birds, birds of pray lived here, dined here, or just passed through." Credit: Tessa Charnofsky

The more advanced option means "taller meadow or prairie-like native plants," Phillips said. These types of plants have root systems that better manage storm water runoff, in addition to absorbing more carbon, she explained.

When one home commits to a wildlife-friendly lawn, others often follow. "(It's) an unspoken message to their neighbors, it is evidence that they care about the environment," Cook said. "In many areas, the first house on the block has set off a domino effect, as others take permission to experiment."c

"Each small garden acts as a stepping stone for birds, pollinators and other wildlife, becoming something much larger, impacting whole watersheds," she added.

Pomegranate and Boston Ivy on the wall of a Bel Air home owned by TV writer-producers Amy Lippman and Rodman Flenders, designed by Naomi Sanders Credit: Jennifer Cheung

Top photo: a front garden at Kronish House, a villa by Ricahrd Neutra in Beverley Hills, California designed by Marmol Radzinerm

Original post:
Designing an end to a toxic American obsession: The Lawn - CNN

When you think of Springtime outdoors, you may picture butterflies floating from flower to flower and birds singing in the trees. You should consider designing your yard to attract wildlife, whether you are interested in conservation, you are a wildlife admirer, or you want a beautiful landscape for an affordable cost. In order to turn your central Alabama yard into an oasis for native birds and pollinators, you need to recruit DSLD Land Management, the experts of residential landscaping in Birmingham, AL. There are several steps you can take to attract butterflies and birds as well as improve water quality and increase the quality of life for existing wildlife.

Plant specific perennials and annuals

Planting the appropriate shrubs, perennials and annuals can give pollinators both food sources and the necessary habitat to complete reproduction. Plant native flowers and trees if at all possible. Here are some examples:

Native plants for butterflies: wisteria, dill, sassafras, common blue violet, foxglove, nettles, and milkweed.

Native trees for butterflies: dogwood, beech, Loblolly pine, black cherry, cottonwood.

Invasive species to avoid: butterfly bush, Lantana, tropical milkweed (click here for a more detailed explanation from AL Butterfly Atlas)

Juicy, overripe fruit can be a nice treat for butterflies as well, but its not just about feeding the butterflies. Its also about having a place for them to successfully lay eggs. Certain invasive species may provide good nectar but are toxic to eggs and/or caterpillars. For a more extensive list of host plants and flowers, visit Alabama Butterfly Atlas.

Consider leaving dead trees alone

Its ok to clean up your landscape to freshen it up and make it look its best, but consider leaving that dead or dying tree alone if youre wanting to attract native birds. Obviously this ONLY applies if it isnt a potential danger to you or your home. A dead or dying black cherry tree (for example) can be the perfect habitat and shelter for birds and the insects they eat.

Here are some landscape and garden reminders from the Alabama Wildlife Center:

Add a water feature

Ponds and other similar low-lying water features are a great addition to your landscape because they provide birds and other animals water for drinking and bathing. Surrounding a pond with small pebbles is even better because it gives pollinating insects a warm place to rest. DLSD Land Management has a waterscapes team that can help make a pond or other water feature work seamlessly with your landscape.

These are just a few ideas on how to attract birds and butterflies to your yard. With the help of DSLD Land Management, you can turn your landscapes into an oasis of native plants and animals!

DSLD is a full-service design/build landscape contracting firm located in Birmingham. The family-owned and operated company is headed up by David Sharp, a brilliant design engineer who is backed by a team of professionals that have decades of experience in taking Alabamians landscape nightmares and turning them into dreamscapes. They do commercial and residential. I speak from experience here AlabamaWX friends: Give David and his team a call. Theyre amazing! Bill Murray

Category: ALL POSTS, Partner News Stories

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How To Attract Butterflies And Birds To Your Yard - alabamawx.com

Fitter and Faster Swim Camps is the proud sponsor of SwimSwams College Recruiting Channel and all commitment news. For many, swimming in college is a lifelong dream that is pursued with dedication and determination. Fitter and Faster is proud to honor these athletes and those who supported them on their journey.

Kaitlyn Bacik, a senior at Beavercreek High School and a member of the Coffman Family YMCA in Springboro, Ohio, has announced her commitment to swim for the University of Kentucky in the fall of 2020. A sprint/middle distance freestyler and backstroker, Bacik will be joining a Wildcats team that has built a reputation for producing top-level backstrokers, most recently two-time All-American Ali Gayler.

At the 2020 Ohio High School Division I (big schools) State Championship meet, Bacik took 12th place in the 100-yard freestyle (52.91) and led off Beavercreeks 200-yard freestyle that finished in 12th place as well. At the 2019 YMCA Great Lakes Zone Championships, she took 4th place in the 200-yard freestyle (1:56.85) and 6th in the 200-yard backstroke (2:06.90).

Top Times in Yards:

Bacik will join backstrokers Abbie Shaw and Torie Buerger as well as Anna Havens Rice, Kaylee Williams, Kristyn Sabol, Leah Luckett, Sofie Davis, Tori Orcutt, Van McKinley, and Megan Drumm as the members of the Wildcats class of 2024.

If you have a commitment to report, please send an email with a photo (landscape, or horizontal, looks best) and a quote to [emailprotected].

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Backstroker Kaitlyn Bacik Commits to the University of Kentucky for 2020 - SwimSwam

In recent years, scientific data about global warming has become more prevalent in the news.

In India and China, dangerous levels of air pollution prompted people to wear masks as they went to work. Plastic bottles and other trash in the ocean have led to new inventions for collecting debris and people have organized volunteer efforts to collect trash from beaches. Rising sea levels are a reality rather than speculation and melting glaciers alarm scientists in Antarctica. Just as astronauts have described Earth as one planet, everyday citizens understand that environmental conditions affect more than just their own country. Air pollution flows across the borders of countries as if those borders are nonexistent. Now, we are witnessing the connectedness of people around the world as the coronavirus spreads from region to region.

Before January, most young kids werent familiar with the term pandemic and many adults wouldnt have known the difference between a surgical mask and an N95 mask or respirator. The number 95 refers to the fact that N95 masks filter out 95% of the particulates in the air, protecting the individual from dangerous particles such as air pollution, bacteria or viruses. Yet, for construction workers, dentists, nurses and physicians, these items are part of a typical workday. Painters, firefighters and teams who clean up hazardous waste areas are often required to use masks for their own protection.

As coronavirus spread from China to Europe, it was only a matter of time before cases appeared in the United States. It spread faster than some people expected, although many medical researchers and health care professionals werent all that surprised. There have been predictions of pandemics for many years in medical journals as well as in some governmental emergency response departments and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In early March, headlines described shortages of medical supplies like N95 masks and ventilators and some predicted dire shortages of hospital beds in large cities such as New York. Companies instructed employees to work from home, public schools closed, and restaurants and many stores have followed. Grocery store shelves have emptied out, toilet paper has become a sought-after commodity, and take-out is the new go-to at many restaurants. Families are cooking tried-and-true traditional family recipes and kids are calling their grandparents more often.

Parents and volunteers have sprung into action to provide meals for schoolchildren because in many parts of the country, meals at school are the only food they consume each day. College administrators have told students to de-densify by moving out of dormitories and traveling home, much to the chagrin, and sometimes delight, of their parents. Through the end of the academic year, these college students will be finishing their classwork online and participating in discussions through Zoom.

Just after elbow bumping became the craze, most people decided to stop any type of physical contact. Social distancing has become an art, while running outdoors is more popular since gyms have closed. Things keep changing quickly as we collectively hunker down and adjust to new routines.

Good-news stories, however, are plentiful on Facebook. In Denver, a 7-year-old girl made a Get Well card for a state legislator who was diagnosed with coronavirus. The girls dad delivered it to the legislators home along with some candles, which cheered her up the legislator is quarantined at home while her family takes care of her. In the front yard of a home in downtown Colorado Springs, there was a table with dog treats and home-baked cookies for passersby to enjoy. In Ohio, two siblings took their cellos to their front porch and played music for the neighbors. The pandemic has even affected animals routines, such as the penguins at Chicagos Shedd Aquarium, who were let out of enclosures to wander around near the fish tanks.

With the exception of walking our dog and grocery shopping, we havent left our house. Jigsaw puzzles, decks of cards, and the kids laptops from college sit near Lysol wipes and Kleenex boxes. From a distance of six feet or more, we wave at neighbors and thank postal service workers delivering the mail. I hope weve all learned something in this time of dramatic change. Maybe more people will appreciate health care professionals and first responders who have been working even longer hours than usual taking care of patients. I hope theres a deeper appreciation for things we took for granted, like hard-working grocery store cashiers, schoolteachers, waitresses and busboys.

No one is getting through this alone or getting by without some help. Only a fool on April Fools day would think they could do it on their own. It takes a village and even more apparent, that village is global.

Julie Richman is a freelance writer, project manager and consultant. She and her family have lived on Colorado Springs northeast side for 21 years. Contact Julie with comments or ideas for her column at woodmennotes@pikespeaknewspapers.com.

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The ever-changing landscape of America | Northeast Notes - Colorado Springs Gazette

On a half-acre near downtown Littleton, a couple creates a retreat reminiscent of a quaint European garden.

In the late 1800s, an enterprising couple bought 720 acres of land on the east side of Littleton and developed it into a subdivision designed for city dwellers who also wanted country homes. These entrepreneurs carved out a home for themselves there and planted 75 acres of orchards, plus a nursery of peonies, roses, and grapevines.

It seems only fitting that more than 130 years later, the original farmhouse (remodeled on the inside but still showcasing its 19th-century charm) has a backyard oasis that pays tribute to a bygone era and the patina of time. Owners Ona and Craig Belk, who have lived in the farmhouse for more than 20 years, love to cook and entertain, and several years ago, they turned their attention to the half-acre of land outside their back doors. We wanted to create a space where we could hang out together with our children and their significant others and our grandchildren, Ona says. We call this place the happy house, and it was time to extend that love of hospitality to our outdoor area.

The couples friend and architect, David Robb, joined in their conversation about what the yard could become. Their chats began with ideas for expanding the indoor kitchen and dining space to a wraparound porch outside. A small outdoor cooking area would be nice, they agreed, and so would a water element beyond the porch. Then Robb and the Belks visited the War Memorial Rose Garden in Littleton, where a beautiful little fountain caught Onas imagination, so they dreamed up a poolbigger than a pond and smaller than a lap pool, Robb saysand a small adjacent spa. Theyd need a pump house for the pool, and the contractor, Jeff Slough of Eagle Alliances, mentioned that an outdoor fireplace would be an ideal addition to that structure, so Robb added a Rumford fireplacea tall, shallow design that distributes heat well.

Of course, the counterpoint to all these structures would be plantslots of them. I didnt want a Disneyland backyard with a huge pool and hard materials, says Ona, who has been an avid gardener for more than a decade. Landscape designer Kaylin Kittle of Ivy Street Design created a whimsical plan to give softness and Old-World charm to the yard. We wanted it to feel like a European garden that you just discover as you wander through the gate, Kittle says. To achieve that style, she chose buff flagstone stepping stones spaced in an organic way and surrounded by lush green groundcover to give the impression that nature had taken over the harsh surfaces. The flagstones carve out paths among the pool, fireplace, porch, and the large potager garden, where raised beds separated by gravel pathways feel quite French. There, the Belks grow varieties of tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, fennel, beets, herbs, and edible flowers such as calendula and pansies.

Beyond the garden, the entire yard is full of delectable plants: The Belks wanted a useful garden, Ona says, by which she means a plot of land filled not merely with ornamental vegetation, but with plants that they can use in cooking and in Onas homeopathic tinctures and salves. The landscape is dotted with red and black currants, gooseberries, hawthorn, elderberries, and raspberries, and in a side yard, a small orchard of fruit treesplum, peach, apple, and cherryoffers up a bounty of sweetness.

Three years after its completion, the yard has fulfilled its owners dreams for a warm, vibrant area to entertain and garden. My very favorite thing is to get out there first thing in the morning, with a cup of coffee, to see whats growing, whats blooming, and then to decide what Im going to harvest and make for the day, Ona says. And then, after working in the garden all morning, once the day gets really hot, we take a dip in the pool. Its justbetter than I could have ever imagined.

This recipe, a favorite at the Belks home in the warm months, is best made one day ahead so the flavors can mix well.

Lithuanian Cold Beet Soup (Saltibariai)Serves 8

3 hard-boiled eggs1 cup scallion greens, finely chopped2 cucumbers, peeled, quartered, and finely chopped6 tablespoons whole-milk Greek yogurt1 quart unsweetened kefir1 cup water3 medium red beets, cooked, peeled, and coarsely grated1 cup beet greens, finely chopped1 cup sorrel leaves, tightly packed1 bunch fresh dill (or more to taste), finely choppedEdible small garden flowers or petals(such as pansies or nasturtiums), optionalSalt to taste

Separate the egg yolks from the whites. Crush egg yolks with scallion greens and salt. Add cucumber, finely chopped egg whites, yogurt, kefir, water, beets, beet greens, sorrel leaves, and dill. Mix well. Refrigerate. Serve in individual bowls and sprinkle with dill and small edible garden flowers or petals.

Hilary Masell Oswald is the editor at large for 5280 Home and a 5280 contributor.

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The Backyard Oasis of Our Dreams - 5280 | The Denver Magazine

Goooooooooooooood morning, everyone. I hope your week has started strong youre all feeling right as rain on this Tuesday morning.

We can all breathe a sign of relief now that the team has officially announced the signing of Bryan Bulaga, Linval Joseph, Chris Harris, and Nick Vigil. With the recent reports of the Ravens not signing Michael Brockers and the Jaguars not signing Darqueze Dennard, I started to worry about at least one of these signings falling through for one reason or another.

Could you imagine if Bulaga bounced after failing a physical? There would be a riot. Thank goodness we dont have to deal with that.

Enjoy the links and have a great Tuesday.

https://www.chargers.com/news/los-angeles-chargers-announce-free-agency-moves

The Los Angeles Chargers today agreed to terms with tackle Bryan Bulaga, cornerback Chris Harris Jr., defensive tackle Linval Joseph and linebacker Nick Vigil.

https://www.chargers.com/news/los-angeles-chargers-kcbs-kcal-iheartradio-team-up-for-lausd-live-fundraiser

On Thursday, Apr. 2, the Los Angeles Chargers are joining CBS 2/KCAL 9 and iHeartRadio for a day-long fundraiser to help raise money, supplies and awareness for Los Angeles Unified School District students and their families who are struggling during this unprecedented COVID-19 crisis.

https://www.chargers.com/news/los-angeles-chargers-sign-wide-receiver-darius-jennings

Jennings, a four-year NFL veteran, comes to the Chargers from the Tennessee Titans. Over the last two seasons with Tennessee, he returned 31 kickoffs for 894 yards, including a 94-yarder for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins. In 2018, Jennings led the NFL with a 31.7-yard average, returning 22 kicks for 698 yards.

https://www.chargers.com/news/chargers-mock-draft-tracker-6-0

The Chargers reportedly wont look for a QB in free agency, which means Tyrod Taylor is the man ... for now. But the team will have a decision to make at No. 6. Herbert had a solid 2019 season but improved his stock during the Senior Bowl and combine.

The 2020 NFL Draft may set ratings records

No one can go outside. There are no sports events on television and there is nothing on the horizon. The country is essentially staying at home and there are only so many things to watch on Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, or the streaming app of your choice. There is one respite, one light at the end of the tunnel, one major sporting event that gets great ratings and will absolutely dominate the sports landscape for the next month: the 2020 NFL Draft.

Chargers stack deck in Draft Wire's 4-round mock draft

The majority of the signings and trades have concluded. Now all thats left to the roster-building process for the Chargers and the rest of the teams in the league is the 2020 NFL Draft.

https://boltbeat.com/2020/03/30/la-chargers-great-sixth-nfl-draft/

This draft is likely going to yield the teams future plans for a franchise quarterback, which will impact at least the next half-decade and how successful the Chargers will be. You can afford a bust when you are picking a defensive tackle in the first round, it hurts more when it is a quarterback.

https://boltbeat.com/2020/03/30/la-chargers-draft-order-locations/

The LA Chargers have the sixth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and it will be the first time in franchise history that the team has selected sixth in the NFL Draft. We had all intentions of doing a greatest sixth overall picks in team history but that cannot be done without any history.

https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2883401-the-br-goat-sim-ranking-the-top-10-contenders#slide0

The B/R GOAT Sima 32-team Madden simulation tournament in which every NFL franchise will compete using rosters comprised of legendskicks off this week on Bleacher Reports Twitch.

https://247sports.com/Article/Tyrod-Taylor-provides-coronavirus-relief-to-hometown-LA-Chargers-Virginia-Tech-Hokies145556796/

On Monday, former Virginia Tech star Tyrod Taylor announced he would be donating $25,000 towards the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank via the Tyrod Taylor Foundation. The donation will go towards a truckload of food to help those economically impacted by the coronavirus in Taylors local community.

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Chargers Daily Links: Chargers make FA signings official, Tyrod gives back to the community - Bolts From The Blue