Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

"Wrecked" Season 2 kicks off right where it left off, Brian Sacca told TooFab ahead of the premiere on Tuesday.

"The first episode of the second season is the pirates attempting to ransom me and I'll just say, it doesnt go as planned," Sacca said of his character, Danny Wallace.

Sacca teased exciting additions to the show, including a "really super exciting cameo" and a "badass" pirate named Barracuda. "It's like Rihanna comes to the island, but shes some psychopathic killer," the actor said.

Wrecked," a single-camera parody of the 2004 drama Lost," follows a diverse group of airplane passengers who are stranded on a deserted island facing the hardships of survival, like living without indoor plumbing, wi-fi, social media and most importantly, Chipotle.

Read the interview in its entirety (below) to find out more about the pivotal role pirates will be playing in Season 2.

There's a lot going on there. Its a very light way to end a half=hour comedy now that you describe it that way. By the way, that's how we take up the second season - right in that moment Im faced with that choice of what will I do. I hope that you would assume that I'm not going to give up my friends and let them all die because then that would make a really boring TV show if it was just me suck on an island for ten more episodes. But that's where we pick up pirates are there, the first episode of the second season is the pirates attempting to ransom me and I'll just say, it doesnt go as planned. There are some things that happen that cause the pirates to have to stay on the island for a bit, so we have some new neighbors for the first half of the second season. It's funny and crazy. The pirates are amazing because they are not, as you can see from the end of the first season -- they are not your average Somali pirate. What's fun is there is a leader of the pirates who comes and kind of runs the island. Her name is the Barracuda. She is the most badass human, both as an actress and a character so it's this awesome new energy that comes to the island with Barracuda because she can strike fear in anybody; it's like Rihanna comes to the island, but shes some psychopathic killer.

There's a bunch of stuff that happens in the first episode. The last of which makes my character really sad. They find out a bunch of truths about different aspects of his life and so for the first couple episodes of this season, I am a sad sack of a character and then I kind of find my way back to life through jealousy. I become a little bit of ajealous guy in this season, jealousy from my friends relationship with some other people.

Danny sees this as his opportunity to start new, to start fresh and disconnect from his family which changes, but this as the opportunity for him to be the person hes always wanted to be, which is why he adopts the role as the cop on the island and tries to be a heroic figure, a almost blue collar figure although we learn thats not him in any way and I think that's why hes always optimistic, he sees it as an incredible opportunity for himself. This second season, all that changes for him.

In fact, it's foreshadowing first scene of second season. My father comes back and if this can tell you anything, there is a lot of story that happens in the second season. The creators really went for making this a serialized show so we're really telling a story. But of course, it's still about a bunch of stranded people trying to survive this plane crash.

I always imagine it as a hunting club like you know those rich people who dress up and go hunting together. It seems like a rich Virginian sport, like were gonna go shoot ducks this weekend thing. Thats were I imagine he knows how to shoot a gun because I thought about that.

I shot the gun. In the pilot, we used a live gun, but we shot blanks. It was fun. In Puerto Rico there was a scene where it cuts away to a glimpse of me shooting the gun in the ocean trying to shoot fish and me and the stunt guy were climbing over coral to try and get this shot and the stunt guy was like, We have about five minutes to get this shot and then were going to be in trouble. So we shoot the shot and we turn to go back and he goes, Oh sh-t. Here are a pair of leather gloves, just hold on no matter what happens because the tide came in. So we start walking over this coral again and huge waves were coming in and knocking us all over the place and I have this live gun that Im trying to keep above water so it doesnt get wet and it was just a crazy moment that could have been in the TV show.

No, I would be crying like a baby if I was in a plane crash. Oh my god, that's still my nightmare. I mean if a plane had a little bit of turbulence, my palms start sweating. I cant handle it.

I wouldnt be leader, I would be logistics. In high school, I always wanted to be on student council, but never wanted VP or president because its too much responsibility so I ran for treasurer because I knew I would win and I knew I could make sure the logistics work. I would take a global cellphone, a life supply of chocolate pudding and a portable shower that has a solar water heater in it. I just wanna have an easy life when Im stranded on an island and I'm very serious about the political situation so I'd love to call home and say, 'OK, what's going on? Give me updates.'

First tip, dont get stranded on deserted island because its not gonna workout well for you. Second, bring a mirror because you will lose a lot of weight and if you lose weight, you'll gain confidence. Third, write memoirs in your head for book deals because once your get picked up, youll have a lot of people reaching out and you gotta think about the money deals.

Later in the season there's a really super exciting cameo that comes out and I was so overjoyed that he came on our show to work with us. I cant wait for people to find out that this person's a part of the show!

Hes previously worked closely with a member of our cast.

View Photos 19 Worst Film and TV Dads in Honor of Father's Day

Read more here:
'Wrecked' Star Brian Sacca Spills Season 2 Details About 'Exciting Cameo' and 'Psychopathic' Pirate (Exclusive) - TooFab

0 of 32

The NFL's coaches and players may be on vacation at the moment, but there is plenty to do before the league's offseason comes to a close.

Just because both sides take a few weeks off to decompress doesn't stop teams and individuals from trying to improve during the down time.

After all, players report for training camp next month, and the Hall of Fame Game featuring the Dallas Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals is only 44 days away.

Before the league reaches either point, front office personnel continue to tinker with their squads. While most franchises have a general idea of what their team will look like this fall, inherent limitations exist due to the 53-man limit. Even the league's best have problem areas found within the roster.

Plenty can still be accomplished in a short period. Bleacher Report identified three to four areas each team needs to address before the offseason is complete.

1 of 32

The Arizona Cardinals left free agency with multiple roster holes. The organization did little to address its needs.

First and foremost, the Cardinals defense features the NFL's best cornerback in Patrick Peterson, yet the franchise has yet to find a true bookend. Justin Bethel and Brandon Williams will go into camp still competing for the position. This year's sixth-round pick, Rudy Ford, will also receive a chance to earn playing time as he transitions from safety to cornerback.

Secondly, the franchise failed to acquire Carson Palmer's heir apparent. The 37-year-old signal-caller contemplated retirement after the 2016 campaign before he decided to return. At the moment, former top-10 pick Blaine Gabbert is the most promising young backuphe's still only 27on the roster even though he's already failed during two previous stops.

Arizona will feature a versatile defense with plenty of potential spearheaded by the additions of Haason Reddick and Budda Baker via the draft. However, multiple questions linger regarding unaddressed positions and the team's overall depth.

2 of 32

Continuity is an often overlooked aspect of offensive line play. A team can feature multiple talented blockers, but their skills sets are nullified when surrounded by unfamiliar circumstances. An offensive front develops into a truly special unit when the same starting five players start alongside each other over the course of multiple seasons.

The Atlanta Falcons don't have this luxury. Instead, the team is looking to replace Chris Chester after the right guard retired. Chester started all 32 games over the last two seasons. Wes Schweitzer and Ben Garland will compete to replace Chester.

Keeping the offensive line intact is important for a pair of the Falcons' skill-position performers. The league's reigning MVP, Matt Ryan, deserves an extension with only two years remaining on his current contract, while starting running back Devonta Freeman is a free agent after the 2017 campaign. These are two major pieces in need of new deals, who also benefited from the offensive line's strong play last season.

3 of 32

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco is being set up to fail.

Two offensive line starters from last year in Rick Wagner and Jeremy Zuttah are no longer with the team. Flacco's favorite target, Dennis Pitta, was released after he suffered yet another hip injury. The team doesn't have a true No. 1 wide receiver. And none of the running backs on the roster ran for more than 774 yards last season.

The Ravens defense appears devastating, but the offense doesn't pass the sniff test.

Head coach John Harbaugh has time to address each of these problem areas before the regular season begins. John Urschel and James Hurst have starting experience and should take over at center and right tackle, respectively. The team could consider a veteran free-agent option like Nick Mangold, for example.

Competition will ensue at both tight end and running back. It falls on the coaching staff to have each of these units prepared, because neither is viewed as anything more than average.

4 of 32

The Buffalo Bills were one of two organizations to experience a complete overhaul this offseason with the additions of a new head coach and general manager. How they came together didn't follow a traditional course, though. The team hired head coach Sean McDermott in January. Nearly four months later, Bills owners Terry and Kim Pegula hired Brandon Beane to be the general manager after firing Doug Whaley once the draft concluded.

McDermott and Beane's previous relationship with the Carolina Panthers should help create a naturalsynergy, but the Bills have yet to establish a course under their new leadership.

A good place to start is at quarterback, where Whaley remained non-committal toward Tyrod Taylor. By placing the organization's full confidence behind Taylor and adding the right pieces around him, the Bills would be on track to finally challenge in the AFC East.

Right now, the wide receiver corps is banged up and Taylor is working under a contract that is essentially a one-year deal.

5 of 32

Because of his style of play and a porous offensive line, Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton takes a beating. At 6'5" and 245 pounds, the 28-year-old signal-caller can take more punishment than most signal-callers, but the physicality takes a toll.

Newton didn't throw during minicamp sessions while he recovered from offseason rotator cuff surgery.

"It's doing all right," Newton said before the team's final minicamp, per ESPN.com's David Newton."... I can't really throw yet, overhand, but underhand everything is A-OK."

The team's major injury concerns extend beyond the quarterback position, too.

Offensive tackle Michael Oher, once expected to start this year,has yet to be cleared by the league's concussion protocol after missing 13 games last season. The organization could consider cutting the former first-round pick, according to the Charlotte Observer's Joseph Person.

6 of 32

What the Chicago Bears need is a clear direction at the game's most important position. It'll be difficult to achieve after the team traded up to select the top quarterback in April's draft. Even with Mitchell Trubisky's addition, the organization remains adamant in veteran Mike Glennon being the starter this fall.

If that's truly the case, the coaching staff needs to give Glennon every first-team rep to fully prepare him for the 2017 campaign.

"I think it's going to be an ongoing process," Glennon said after minicamp practice, per ESPN.com's Jeff Dickerson. "A new offense with a lot of new guys. I think there have been some good things and some things that we've got to work on, but that's what these OTAs and minicamp are for."

The coaching staff and front office can't waver if the 27-year-old signal-caller struggles. Otherwise, cries for Trubisky to play will be deafening.

7 of 32

The Cincinnati Bengals made some interesting draft choices in recent years, and those picks will have a major impact on the team's success or failure this fall.

During the 2015 draft, the team chose back-to-back offensive tackles in Cedric Ogbuehi and Jake Fisher with its first- and second-round selections. The duo combined to start 16 games over the last two seasons and tended to struggle. Yet the Bengals surely drafted them to become full-time starters and keep quarterback Andy Dalton upright.

Head coach Marvin Lewis can't let their play pull down the rest of the offense. The Bengals are loaded at the skill positions. If Ogbuehi or Fisher continue to struggle leading up and into the preseason, the team must find different answers along the offensive line.

Meanwhile, this year's draft picks help make the Bengals offense far more explosive. For running back Joe Mixon, the key is finding the right influences. The rookie expects to train with Adrian Peterson during his down time, according to ESPN.com's Katherine Terrell. He'll work with Adam Jones, too. Due to the background of both veterans, these may be questionable choices for Mixon, but he can also learn from their mistakes.

Also, first-round pick John Ross and his speed can be a perfect complement to A.J. Green, but the Washington product is dealing with a shoulder injury, which could cost him some reps in training camp.

8 of 32

Everyone in Cleveland held their collective breath toward the end of minicamp when this year's No. 1 overall pick, Myles Garrett, fell to the ground with a foot injury. The team later announced Saturday the defensive end suffered a lateral foot sprain, and he'll be ready for training camp. Even so, the organization must be careful with Garrett throughout the healing process since the defense will be built around his tremendous skill set.

On offense, head coach Hue Jackson must set the groundwork for a smooth transition into a quarterback competition. Cody Kessler, Brock Osweiler and rookie Deshone Kizer will compete to become the team's starter. It'll be beneficial for all parties to know how Jackson plans to rotate each of these signal-callers even before they report for camp.

Until then, the offense will be built around the team's talented offensive line and running game with Isaiah Crowell potentially poised for a breakout campaign. The running back has yet to agree to a long-term contract with the organization, though.

9 of 32

The Dallas Cowboys rebuilt their secondary this offseason. Growing pains will ensue, but the potential exists for this young and talented group to improve upon last year's 26th-ranked passing defense.

"We've been going back and forth, not only me but all the DBs and all the wideouts," Pro Bowl wide receiver Dez Bryant told theDallas Morning News'Jon Machota. "I think this is the best we've ever competed against one another."

The team's secondary includes rookie cornerbacks Chidobe Awuzie and Jourdan Lewis.

However, a pair of rookies from last year's class will help determine the team's success. The Cowboys are still awaiting the results of an NFL investigation into running back Ezekiel Elliott for allegations of domestic violence. Plus, the organization hopes last year's second-round pick, Jaylon Smith, returns to form after suffering a devastating knee injury during his final collegiate game.

10 of 32

The Denver Broncos are only a year and a half removed from being Super Bowl champions, yet the team is vastly different today than the one that captured a title in 2016. Vance Joseph was named the head coach in January, and he already faces an extremely difficult decision. Should he start Trevor Siemian or Paxton Lynch at quarterback?

How the two prepare between now and the preseason is moot, though. Joseph won't name a starter until he can see them in live situations.

"Probably zero to none [impact]," the coach said regarding quarterbacks' performances during minicamp, per ESPN.com's Jeff Legwold. "... It's going to be won on the football field. It's going to be won in the games in the preseason, and that's the way the evaluation starts; that has not changed for myself or for the staff."

Thus, it falls on the two young signal-callers to be as prepared as possible to excel once the competition truly begins. Until then, they'll be playing behind a revamped offensive line, which has yet to establish its starting offensive tackles. First-round pick Garett Bolles is on track to take over the blind side, but the staff is making him earn it. Meanwhile, a competition will ensue at right tackle between Menelik Watson, Donald Stephenson and Ty Sambrailo.

11 of 32

OTA injuries are the worst. The Detroit Lions experienced a major blow to their offensive line when left tackle Taylor Decker suffered a torn labrum that will keep him out of the lineup for the next four to six months, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

In response, the team acquired Cyrus Kouandjio and former No. 2 overall pick Greg Robinson.The Lions still have a long way to go before they actually replace Decker. Thus, their ability to absorb both incoming options into the locker room and have them prepared to play during training camp will be vital to protect Matthew Stafford's blind side.

Keeping Stafford upright is of the utmost importance because the team wants to keep him healthy. This will be especially true if/when the organization agrees to a contract extension with its franchise quarterback. The former No. 1 overall pick is entering the last year of his current deal. He shouldn't be expected to actually play out his contract. Instead, the 29-year-old signal-caller should become the NFL's newest $100 million man before he takes another practice snap.

12 of 32

Last year's 31st-ranked pass defense wasn't good enough if the Green Bay Packers are going to compete as legitimate Super Bowl contenders. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is a wizard, but he can do only so much when the Packers secondary serves as Swiss cheese.

A heavy emphasis was placed on improving the team's defensive backs this fall. The team spent its first two draft picks to address the secondary in cornerback Kevin King and safety Josh Jones. The key for the team as it prepares for training camp is finding a consistent group to work together.

"Our biggest challenge was that we had so many guys going through the cornerback position," head coach Mike McCarthy said, per the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Tom Silverstein. "Teams that are playing the best are the teams that are playing together."

With King and Jones added to a mix that already features veterans Davon House, Damarious Randall, Quinten Rollins and LaDarius Gunter, the Packers now have a talented group of corners who should be able to match up against the league's better passing attacks.

13 of 32

A few problem areas can be found within the Houston Texans lineup, but the quarterback position creates a gravitational collapse that forms into the black hole and defines the entire roster.

The Texans can play defense. The offense has weapons at wide receiver and running back. But who will be pulling the trigger?

Tom Savage serves as QB1 right now. However, it's only a matter of time before rookie Deshaun Watson takes over as the Texans starter. The team didn't trade up 13 spots in the first round just to have him sit on the bench this fall.

Instead of trying to force Savage into a role he proved incapable of holding, head coach Bill O'Brien should do everything in his power to prepare Watson.

"Mentally, he has it," wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins said of the first-year signal-caller, per Texans TV's Drew Dougherty.

14 of 32

Like most organizations, the Indianapolis Colts are defined by their quarterback. Andrew Luck came into theleague as a prodigy, yet he hasn't fully realized his potential due to multiple injuries. Luck missed all of the team's offseason workouts after he needed shoulder surgery.

The Colts must bring Luck along slowly to make sure he properly heals before throwing him back into the fray.

"To be honest, I have not thought about it," Luck said about his potential return for training camp, per the Indianapolis Star's Zak Keefer. "If I'm ready for it, then great. If I'm not, then that's the way it is."

The quarterback wouldn't even speculate how long he needed to complete his rehab. This places the Colts in stasis. Yes, general manager Chris Ballard put together a strong free-agent class to make the defense more athletic and explosive, plus found value in the draft, but Luck's presence in the lineup is the most important dangling plot to Indianapolis' offseason.

15 of 32

The Jacksonville Jaguars are at a crossroads. A year ago, the team became a chic pick to challenge for a playoff spot. Instead, the team regressed and finished with a 3-13 record.Owner Shahid Khan fired Gus Bradley after a forgettable tenure, and interim head coach Doug Marrone was granted full-time status.

The front office clearly wants to build around quarterback Blake Bortles. In order to do so, the coaching staff must take pressure off him. It can do so by making this year's fourth overall pick, Leonard Fournette, into a workhorse. The rookie is ready.

"I'm going to be here for most of the time lifting weights, running, conditioning," Fournette said during minicamp, per ESPN.com's Michael DiRocco. "I know how important this month is going to be off for us to just stay in shape, the mental things, learning the playbook more and more until I have it like it's the back of my hand."

Khan is willing to invest heavily in his team as evidenced by the massive free-agent contracts defensive lineman Calais Campbell and cornerback A.J. Bouye received. The Jags must first be able to forge an identity, and it starts before the team even steps onto the field for a training camp practice. Everyone must accept the new approach for it to be effective.

16 of 32

The Kansas City Chiefs will look quite different at the start of the 2017 campaign. The team's all-time leading rusher, Jamaal Charles, its No. 1 wide receiver, Jeremy Maclin, and its Pro Bowl nose tackle, Dontari Poe, are no longer with the franchise. Even quarterback Alex Smith is treading water after the team decided to select Texas Tech's Patrick Mahomes with the 10th overall pick in April's draft.

Under head coach Andy Reid's supervision, the Chiefs have been one of the NFL's most disciplined teams. They don't play an exciting brand of football, yet they consistently win with a ball-control passing attack and an opportunistic defense. Clearly, the team needs more explosive options, particularly on offense.

Tyreek Hill will receive a much larger role this year, but the team lacks a reliable top option without Maclin in the lineup. Chris Conley and Demarcus Robinson will both receive opportunities to take over the role.

Others need to fill voids as well. Pass-rusher Dee Ford must supply a more consistent presence off the edge. Spencer Ware has a chance to be the team's lead back. Bennie Logan steps in as the team's new nose tackle. The coaches only have a matter of months to develop these talents and have them playing to the level of their predecessors.

17 of 32

These aren't the same old Chargers. The franchise now resides in Los Angeles. Head coach Anthony Lynn is leading the way, and disappointing seasons under Mike McCoy are a thing of the past. If not for quarterback Philip Rivers and tight end Antonio Gates, the team's transition period would serve as a fresh start.

"The facts are, and I deal in the currency of the truth, we won nine games the past two years," Lynn told The MMQB's Albert Breer. "We're below average. So we have to change some things that we're doing. We have to approach it better. We have to play better."

Lynn also stated his team is talented, and it is. Wide receiver is particularly deep with Keenan Allen returning from injury, Tyrell Williams, Dontrelle Inman, Travis Benjamin and this year's seventh overall pick Mike Williams.

On defense, Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram should terrorize opponents.

But everything comes down to the team playing together under the direction of a new staff and staying healthy. The Chargers have enough to deal with after making the move to L.A. The football part of the equation should be easy.

18 of 32

While the Los Angeles Rams hope Jared Goff turns into the face of the franchise, the team already features the game's best defensive player. Aaron Donald is a monster, and he should be rewarded for his elite play. At 26 years old, Donald is entering the prime of his career with two years remaining on his rookie contract. The window to renegotiate his current deal opened this offseason, and the Rams would be wise to address the situation before it begins to fester. The former 13th overall pick skipped minicamps due to the fact he doesn't have a new deal in place.

Meanwhile, the Rams are trying to build an offense and culture around Sean McVay's vision. The new head coach is tasked with preparing last year's No. 1 overall pick, Jared Goff, for a full-time starting role after a horrific rookie campaign. As McVay tends to the game's most important position by giving Goff the type of mental exercises necessary to succeed even when the team isn't practicing, the coach feels he's gotten a good head start in creating a new culture.

"By no means are we where we need to be for what were striving to accomplish, but I think in terms of what we were trying to get done in the offseason program, we felt like it was a successful offseason program," McVay said, per ESPN.com's Alden Gonzalez.

19 of 32

The Miami Dolphins' primary concerns lie along the team's trenches, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.

Continue reading here:
Every NFL Team's To-Do List for Rest of Offseason - Bleacher Report

Windsor Windows & Doors renovated its third employee home through the organization's Employee Home Makeover program early this month. Daniel Marquez-Ramirez, group lead for insulated glass production and 11-year Windsor veteran, was the most recent recipient of the home makeover.

The Marquez-Ramirez home in the Capitol Park neighborhood in Des Moines received roofing and siding repair, window and door replacement, exterior paint and landscaping updates with the help of more than 25 Windsor employee volunteers. Through the planning process and over the course of six days, 25 volunteers donated approximately 675 hours to the project. All expenses were covered by Windsor Windows & Doors.

To date, Windsor volunteers have donated an estimated 768 hours on two previous home makeover projects. The program launched in August 2016 and recipients are selected by a company selection committee. Employees are encouraged to submit individual applications for home improvements they would like assistance with, but may not be able to make on their own due to financial reasons or labor requirements.

Read more here:
Windsor Windows & Doors Gives Employee Home Makeover - Window and Door

HOT SPRINGS - The Harlou Building, located at 407 N. River Street, in Hot Springs, was recently awarded an historic preservation grant from the South Dakota State Historical Society.

The Deadwood Fund Grant, totaling $16,329 a local match will join this will assist with the repair of windows, the installation of storm windows on the second floor, and the replacement of a non-historic storefront window.

The Harlou Building was constructed in 1893 with Hot Springs iconic building material, local sandstone.

There are four large arched windows with prominent keystones across the second-story faade of the building.

It is called the Harlou Building because HARLOU is carved into a central plaque at the top of the building. The name is a union of the names of the two men who had it built, Dr. Hargens and S. Loudenback.

The second story is from the Victorian era and architecturally, it borrows from Romanesque design, with extremely tall, found, arched windows with large keystones and triangular cornice decorations.

The Harlou Building was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 as contributing to the Hot Springs Historic District.

It previously housed both grocery and furniture stores, the public library, a bakery, Masonic rooms and professional offices.

The Harlou Building joins four other properties that received Deadwood Grants this year. These include:

Wylie Park Pavilion, Aberdeen -- Built about 1912, this pavilion received a $10,000 grant to assist with repair and replacement of wood siding and for painting.

Mortimer Cabin, Oakwood Lakes State Park. This 1869 structure received $13,000 grant award to assist with the replacement of chinking and to repair logs, the stone foundation, and the gable roof ends.

Gale & Ward Bank Building, in Canton was built in 1880. It will receive $12,000 to aid with the re-pointing of the brick masonry as part of a larger rehabilitation project

Ipswichs First Baptist Church, built in 1926, will receive $12,000 to help with replace the roof.

These new recipients represent a total award amount of more than $63,000 with planned matching funds topping $157,000.

The grants are awarded through the State Historical Societys Deadwood Fund grant program. Funding for the program is from Deadwood gaming revenue earmarked by state law for historic preservation projects throughout the state. The program is administered by the State Historic Preservation Office at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

This is the 20th year for this historic preservation grants program, said Jay D. Vogt, director of the State Historical Society. In 2016 we awarded $108,204 between 11 projects which had matching funds of $291,301. The resulting total public-private investment is $399,505. This program is designed to encourage restoration or rehabilitation of historic properties and is one more way we can promote and protect our history and culture.

Deadwood Fund grants are awarded twice annually. Grant application deadlines are Feb. 1 and Oct. 1, with applications reviewed at the spring and winter meetings of the State Historical Societys board of trustees.

The South Dakota State Historical Society is a division of the Department of Education, and is headquartered at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. The center houses the societys world-class museum, the archives, and the historic preservation, publishing and administrative/development offices. Call (605) 773-3458 or visit http://www.history.sd.gov for more information.

For more information on the Deadwood Fund grant program, contact the State Historic Preservation Office at the Cultural Heritage Center, 900 Governors Drive, Pierre, SD 57501-2217; tel. (605) 773-3458; or website history.sd.gov/Preservation.

Read more:
Harlou Bldg. receives preservation grant - Rapid City Journal

Summer renovation and maintenance work is set to begin on the Bement school campus as part of $2.8 million of building upgrades.

Due to a late start because of a delay in state approval, construction of two secure entryways will take place next summer. Window replacement is expected in September.

But there is still plenty to be done before students return this August, according to Bement Superintendent Sheila Greenwood.

Well be remodeling bathrooms, the ceilings, the roof, fire alarm system. All of those things well get done this summer, she told the school board at its June 14 meeting.

She said window work will require the relocation of some classrooms for short periods of time while the more energy-efficient windows are installed this fall.

To fund the work, the district intends to levy $2.4 million in funding bonds and $425,000 in fire prevention and safety bonds. Greenwood said it should not result in a tax increase since some borrowing went off the books in 2016-17.

No one testified during a mandated public hearing held during the June 14 meeting in regards to the bond issue, which will be considered for final approval at a special school board meeting scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 21.

Although not part of the $2.8 million project, Greenwood said some athletic field work is also planned. That will include repainting of the football field and possibly hiring a contractor to help finish work at the

Bement Foundations baseball field. The ball field work is currently being done by volunteers, but is in its fifth year of renovations and the high school team has not played there in several years.

CEO program High School Principal Doug Kepley gave a report on a possible CEO program that could be available to high school students in DeWitt, Piatt and Macon Counties in the fall of 2019. The community-based program has no cost for participating schools, and would see students report to off-campus businesses the first 90 minutes of their school day.

Students basically work through how to set up a personal business, work with businesses within the community to job shadow, to work with them to see how those organizations work, said Kepley. But it also has them to where they have to start up their own business.

Helping coordinate the effort would be the Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship, which has programs in operation in 39 communities involving 160 schools.

Although there is no cost to schools, the program would need to raise about $35,000 to $50,000 per year to fund it, mostly to pay a local facilitator.

New teachers Two new teachers were introduced, including a retired Spanish instructor who will be able to provide guidance for the Bement Spanish program for up to 100 days during the school year. A long-term substitute filled the position in 2016-17.

Rachel Halliday has been a substitute teacher in Bement since retiring from Georgetown Ridge Farm, and jumped at the chance to teach Spanish.

Its a perfect fit, as far as Im concerned, said Halliday, who now lives in Monticello. I just like to teach.

Other staff and substitutes will fill the remainder of the school days for Spanish.

Also introduced was recent Eastern Illinois University graduate Marika Rosenberger, who will be a full-time high school math instructor in Bement this fall. Her plans include working with the science department to learn and observe the rare total solar eclipse on Aug. 21, just five days after school begins.

In other business,the board: heard from Kepley that the every other year trip to Washington D.C. went well. A total of 15 students teamed with students from Freeburg, Illinois and Anna, Texas to tour the sites during their four days in the nations capital;

was told enrollment projections for 2017-18 are close to the year before. High school enrollment is expected to be about 100 students, just under the 104 of this year, while 70 middle schoolers should start the school year, up slightly from 68 in 2016-17;

Heard from Kepley that BHS SAT scores averaged 1,005 in the first year of taking the exam for state purposes, compared to the state average of 1,022. He said sophomores will now be required to take the PSAT to prepare them for the SAT exam;

accepted the resignation of kindergarten teacher Sarah Snyder and high school secretary Linda Craney, the latter on Sept. 29;

approved extra-curricular assignments for 2017-18;

approved intergovernmental agreements with: The Cerro Gordo school district for the employment of Jennifer Thomas as part-time art teacher; with the Monticello school district for the shared services of social worker Jill Clodfelter; and with DeLand-Weldon for the shared services of speech language pathologist Erin Anderson;

approved a renewal of the district food services contract with Aramark;

voted to employ Shannon Connelley as district paraprofessional; and

approved the mandated prevailing wage resolution.

Read more:
Summer work scheduled at Bement schools - Piatt County Journal-Republican

Randy Parson, an employee of Tira Builders of Hillsboro, cleans up the front entryway of the Highland County Courthouse Tuesday afternoon in preparation for the installation of new front doors. Work continues on restoring the interior and exterior of the courthouse and adjacent Highland County Prosecutors Office, including the offices HVAC system, which has caused maintenance headaches - and even fires - for years.

David Wright | The Times-Gazette

In the oldest continuously used courthouse in the state of Ohio, battling the elements seems to be a part of everyday life and, while temperatures rise, work continues on climate control solutions at the adjacent Highland County Prosecutors Office.

Highland County Prosecutor Anneka Collins told The Times-Gazette Tuesday afternoon that her offices HVAC system has been faulty for some time, and her staff has reached a consensus on the matter.

Its hot, the prosecutor said over the hum of fans set up throughout the office.

Assistant prosecutor Molly Bolek said the best way to combat the heat is with a cold treat.

Its a good excuse to eat ice cream at 10:30 in the morning, Bolek said, to which Collins added, She had to eat it fast because it would have melted.

Bolek insisted that the morning ice cream fix was important for her pregnancy.

According to Bolek, the extreme temperatures in the past have come with a cost she nearly lost a pet fish to a wintry blast before former Highland County Sheriff Richard Warner revived the aquatic pet.

He saw its mouth move, and he put it in warm water and saved it, Bolek said.

A fish in Collins office, however, was not so lucky the creature froze to death during a cold snap, according to the prosecutor.

Collins said the climate control issue has plagued the courthouse for years due to the buildings outdated HVAC system. According to Collins, bad wiring in the walls caught fire twice last year, and that wasnt the first time it had happened.

Were used to it at this point, she said.

Collins, whose office is located on the second floor of the old stone county jail building adjacent to the courthouse, said she appreciated the Highland County Board of Commissioners for their efforts to address the problem. But she said she hopes its fixed sooner rather than later preferably in time for upcoming grand jury deliberations.

We mean this all in good fun, Collins said. They have been actively trying to fix this although I would like for the grand jury to not have to step over fans.

Highland County Board of Commissioners President Shane Wilkin said the commissioners are working with Plug Smart, a Columbus-based energy efficiency company, and Greenfield-based Wellers Plumbing and Heating to find a fix.

We are working with Plug Smart and Wellers to find a solution as quickly as we can regarding the HVAC issues they have been experiencing in the courthouse, Wilkin said.

In the meantime, work continues on restoring the courthouses exterior. A two-man crew was out Tuesday afternoon installing new front doors in the buildings main entryway.

Brad Tira, owner of Tira Builders of Hillsboro, told The Times-Gazette that the project was a little more complicated than he had anticipated, but that they would have a set of new, custom-made mahogany doors installed by Wednesday.

Reach David Wright at 937-402-2570, or on Twitter @DavidWrighter.

Randy Parson, an employee of Tira Builders of Hillsboro, cleans up the front entryway of the Highland County Courthouse Tuesday afternoon in preparation for the installation of new front doors. Work continues on restoring the interior and exterior of the courthouse and adjacent Highland County Prosecutors Office, including the offices HVAC system, which has caused maintenance headaches and even fires for years.

http://www.timesgazette.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/web1_courthousedoors.jpgRandy Parson, an employee of Tira Builders of Hillsboro, cleans up the front entryway of the Highland County Courthouse Tuesday afternoon in preparation for the installation of new front doors. Work continues on restoring the interior and exterior of the courthouse and adjacent Highland County Prosecutors Office, including the offices HVAC system, which has caused maintenance headaches and even fires for years. David Wright | The Times-Gazette

HVAC issues plague prosecutors office

.

Read more from the original source:
Heating, cooling headaches at Highland County Prosecutor's Office - Hillsboro Times Gazette

Fix-It Chick: Some tips on choosing and installing a new thermostat Lawrence Journal World Instead they set average heating and cooling schedules based on the manual adjustments occupants make to the thermostat throughout the week. Step 2: To replace a thermostat, use the breaker or fuse in the service entrance panel to turn off the power to ...

Visit link:
Fix-It Chick: Some tips on choosing and installing a new thermostat - Lawrence Journal World

For years, building spec homes with only the most basic appliances seemed the norm. The idea was to put in good, reliable products, but keep the process simple. Upgrades were possible but didnt generally aid profits, so they werefor most buildersmore of a hassle than anything else. Oddly enough,builders seemed more likely to upgrade faucets than appliances. Then the housing bubble burst, and things changed considerably. With the resurgence of homebuilding bringing back stiff competition, what part does building with premium appliances play in making a sale?

Id say quite a bit. In fact, building with premium appliances can really set you apart from the competition and win over clients who truly value the most important room in the house.

This article is geared towards the builder, decorator, or even the remodeling Pro who either specs kitchens, or remodels them. Still, the serious DIYer may also take away some valuable information, so keep reading. Over the years, weve noticed many kitchen trends and pitfalls. One trend seems to stand above all others: remodeling using premium appliances. Whether its a voluntary redesign, or an insurance claim remodel, premium appliances are flying into kitchens faster than ever before.

One sure way to increase customer satisfaction and raise the level of your work is to carefully consider the appliances you install. After all, this is where the homeowner is destined to spend a considerable amount of time both cooking and entertaining. Kitchens matter, and choosing appliances that enhance the home ranks highest on our recommendation list.

What were getting at is very simple: you have competition. If youre a remodeler, you constantly bid against other remodelers. Whats going to set you apart? While you may not need every job, if you go through a bid process you want to win the project. What sets you apart? There are times when the lowest bidder wins, but thats almost never the case when talking about kitchens. Kitchensparticularly when the owners have already been through the starter phaseare ripe for upgrades. If you spec a home or remodel with only the most rudimentary appliances, youre going to come across as bland and unimpressive.

That could be costing you a lot of business!

Contrast that with a contractor or remodeler who specs premium appliances. Those impress. They make the work of a kitchen easier. They will update and upgrade the overall home value. According to a 2014 study by Remodeler Magazine, a kitchen remodel can recoup as much as 80% or more of its value upon sale of the home. Thats to say nothing of the appeal to the homeowner who gets to use and enjoy that kitchen during their time owning the home.

We have used Bosch appliances for years. My first Bosch was a dishwasher that defied trends with its incredibly quiet operation and triple racks. But Bosch makes more than just great dishwashers, so well use them to illustrate some of the things that can really win over consumers and increase your appeal as a contractor or remodeler. Overall, Ive found them to match the three criteria most important to increasing appeal and profitability: Sleek design, energy efficiency, and advanced features & functionality. Lets go through all three to explain why each of these can justify building with premium appliances or specing them in a remodeling project.

New appliances are wonderful, but premium consumer-level appliances have a look that typically surpasses what you find in builder-grade models. For Bosch, that includes things like hidden control panels and surfaces (dishwashers and refrigerators) as well as quiet operation. While their dishwashers are the quietest in the industry, even their refrigerators and ovens do well at eliminating noise pollution in the kitchen.

We love the look of stainless steel, but its not all the same. On their dishwashers, Bosch uses models with stainless steel both inside and out. Even their less expensive Ascenta seriesmade in North Carolinahas stainless steel tub walls set down into a plastic base. When the door is inevitably opened on that appliance, the internals will look as good as the outside finish.

On refrigerators, French door designs are all the rage. Models with a single lower drawer, however, are getting a bad rap as being difficult to organize. The Bosch B21CL81SNS 36 inch Counter Depth French Door Bottom Freezer 800 Series offers that beautiful stainless steel look and French door functionality. It just does it with dual bottom freezer doors.

The inside is just as impressive. Open it, and youre greeted with a full-width chiller drawer with an adjustable divider. A retractable shelf also lets you fit taller 2-liter bottles and other large items.

This Bosch refrigerator offers a super-clean look on account of it hiding the ice dispenser within the top freezer drawer. With an appliance like this, the idea would be that youd install a water filter and dispenser at the sink. We did something similar in our home with a Franke DW12080 cold water dispenser and filtration system.

When it comes to ovens, solid surface is the way to go for that clean look. For an even bigger step into the future, however, induction rules the day. An appliance like the Bosch HIIP055U 30 induction range features a smooth black glass top that really steps up the look of any kitchen. Induction ovens are also a conversation piecemaking this oven one of the few appliances that can impress with its futuristic (but practical) cooking technology. Any foodie (or hobbyist chef) will appreciate just how quickly it heats and cooks. Actually, anyone who has watched a few minutes of the food network channel has been exposed to the advanced technology of induction cooking. This is one upgrade that is super-attractive in any modern kitchen upgrade or remodel.

Microwaves may seem run-of-the-mill, but Ive seen these botched more often than not. Designs falter with too much emphasis placed on features and not aesthetics. Bosch does a nice job of pairing both with its OTR (over-the-range) models. Of course, the latest trend includes push-button drawer microwaves which eliminate reaching up to insert and remove food. Still, a good over-the-range model can strike a mix of practical and upscale when done correctly. Bosch doesnt clutter the front of their microwaves. Theyre sleek, easy-to-use, and lack offensive front-facing grills or vents like some other brandsweve seen and used.

As more and more consumers consider the environment, being able to tout energy efficiency can give you a real leg up. EnergyStar rated appliances are almost a must, but not all energy efficient appliances are the same. Some models go too far,sacrificing quality and productivity for energy efficiencyyou know who you are! Bosch, in particular, seems to strike a nice balance. I like, for example, the efficiency of their Ascenta dishwashers. In a typical year, Bosch estimates their EnergyStar-certified dishwashers (any of them, in fact) will use just 624 gallons of water and consume just 269 kWh of power. Thats less than $32/year operating cost for electric!

As you consider energy efficiency, its hard to ignore washers and dryers. For this, Bosch doesnt have a ton of options for the single family homeowner. If, however, youre remodeling a condo, small apartment, or anything that requires space-savings,Bosch has you covered. Their 24 Compact Washer 800 Series washer and condensation dryer (WAT28402UC and WTG86402UC) are one of few compact EnergyStar rated systems on the market. These 24-inch washers and dryers can be stacked or mounted side by side with optional pedestal drawers.

The condensating dryer is also a thing to behold. It dries clothes without the need for exterior or interior venting. The washer even plugs into the dryer so that you can run everything off a single 240V circuit. Again, this will mostly appeal to those applications where a pair of 24-inch compact laundry products is desired, but the advanced features and ultra-quiet 63 dBA SPL running are hard to ignore.

If youre considering how to differentiate yourself by building with premium appliances, advanced features may do the most to win over your clients. While lots of appliances look good, features and performance matter. These real-world advancements in technology take your kitchen appliances and truly give consumers something to talk about and look forward to using. Want to sell a kitchen? Show off appliances with advanced technology that will impress whoever is going to find themselves in there the most. We already discussed induction ranges. Thats one of the most impressive pieces of technology to hit the kitchen in quite some time. While still priced at a premium, induction cooking is so far ahead in convenience and functionality, those who try it almost never go back. Quick heating, flexible timers, multiple and instant levels of heatinginduction has it all.

When it comes to ovens, however, Bosch also includes features like a telescoping top shelf for easy access to your primary dishes. You can get convection cooking for a nice, even heating of your food. Temperature probes are available, and even the lighting and door windows in Boschs premium appliances have received welcome upgrades.

When it comes to Dishwashers, Bosch blows away most of the competition with its InfoLight system that literally shines a red dot on the floor to let you know when the dishwasher is running. Their 500-series and up feature a third rack for utensils and other items, maximizing space and helping you get more dishes clean in less time. Finally, interior lighting in their Benchmark dishwashers sets a new bar for what a premium dishwasher should provide.

On refrigerators, some of the shelving options have already been discussed, but Bosch uses a Dual AirCool system to deliver even temperatures. It also reduces the transfer of odors between the refrigerator and freezer. Their B21 series of fridges also include two humidity controlled CrisperDrawers to help keep food fresh for longer periods of time. Finally, its the little things that always seem to impress. An advanced refrigerator will have LED lighting to provide illumination without the heat. These new lights also last as long as your fridge and never have to be replaced.

Its not justfoodies who like their food fresh. Products like the Bosch Benchmark refrigerators use SuperCooling and SuperFreezing tech to temporarily drop the temperature of the fridge or freezer sections when new food is added. This keeps everything where it needs to be and helps your food cool faster.

Think all stainless appliances are the same? Or that energy efficiency doesnt matter, and tech is invisible? That cant be more wrong. When you put it all together, upgrades matter. Building with premium appliances can land you more business and differentiate you from your competition. Youll become known as the builder or remodeler who builds the nice kitchens. Word of mouth is your best friend. As your reputation for offering premium products grows, youll find that you end up with higher-paying clients who, more and more, appreciate the attention to detail and quality products.

Not everything should go premium in a new home or remodel, but the kitchen only (hopefully) gets done once. Why not steer your clients to something theyll truly enjoy and, more importantly, tell others about.Building with premium appliances can do just that.

For more information on current Bosch home appliances, check out their website.

Originally posted here:
Building with Premium Appliances Upgrades Matter - Pro Tool Reviews (blog)

by Amy Lignor

There are a whole list of summer activities for you and the kids planned. Most of them, of course, you want to be nothing but fun, such as grilling outside on the patio or swimming in the pool. However, having the backyard pool and patio are two things you really need in place before either of those activities could be enjoyed. And building this area could be a great summer project in order to not only get the house you really want, but add value to the home for a future sale.

Whether youve been dreaming of updating, customizing or integrating more smart technology into the design of your current home, there are certain projects that provide a way for you to create that high-value The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) has compiled a list of the highest ranking projects being done, as well as the high percentages of cash that homeowners are recouping from these various renovations.

The largest and most popular project in the U.S. is remodeling the kitchen. According to the NAHB, the number of remodelers working on kitchens is over 81%, with the average cost being spent on the remodel of $20,000. These minor kitchen remodels have homeowners recouping over 80% of the cost at the time of sale. (Major remodels of the kitchen have raised to an average of $62,000 in price, with a lower recoup of 65%).

It is important to take note with the kitchen area that before diving into the renovation project, have a plan in place. Interior designers have stated to look at this area like a work triangle between sink, refrigerator and range. Creating that safe and enjoyable triangle that offers easy functionality includes taking into account lighting fixtures, storage and work surfaces, as well as the heavy traffic areas of those who run through each and every day.

The second project that has homeowners recovering almost 65% of costs spent comes in the form of remodeling the bathroom. When upgrading the bath, adding to the trends and great design pattern would mean making the room more accessible (widening doorways, adding grab bars to the tub, enlarging cabinets, and replacing lighting fixtures). In addition, creating a decorative space that offers the perfect vinyl wallpaper surrounding new tile work, updated shower controls, and more.

Another project comes in the form of room additions. Adding extra rooms to the house, such as a family room or a master suite, can range in cost from minor to major considering the plan you have in mind. However, up to 71% of these costs can also be recovered at sale time, depending on the design. Staying on trend is a good thing when it comes to the latest in technology, lighting and heating fixtures, and music systems, yet buying into all color and design trends on the market the minute youre doing your renovation can be a mistake for resale value. After all, trends come and go, but the classic colors remain the same.

Lastly, if youre looking for a project that will raise the value of your home even higher, replacing windows, doors, and insulation are good things. Starting with the front door of the dwelling, replacing this has earned the second-highest return on investment when compared to other remodeling projects, with homeowners who spent an average of $1,413 recouping 90.7% of the cost. (Remodelings 2017 Cost vs Value Report). And when it comes to garage door replacements, as well as upscale window replacements, not only do homeowners recoup a great percentage of costs, but they also improve curb appeal and make the home more energy-efficient. You can also receive financial tax credits from various local, state or federal tax credit programs in the U.S.

So, as you plan your summer renovation project, just know that money can be made whether adding a room or even converting the basement into a multi-functional living space for the whole family. Of course, if youngsters are present, you can add a little added extra home improvement by sound-proofing the walls.

Source: Baret News

View original post here:
Add Value with Summer Home Renovation Projects - Staugnews

Idaho Statesman

The building boom in big Treasure Valley office buildings is about to end Idaho Statesman Commercial construction in Downtown Boise had barely started to rebound from the Great Recession when the Gardner Co. decided in 2012 that the time had come to think big. Gardner executives liked the area's swelling population and pent-up demand, ...

Read this article:
The building boom in big Treasure Valley office buildings is about to end - Idaho Statesman