Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

MASON CITY | While the weather outside is frightful, the spring ideas for home and lawn care inside the North Iowa Events Center are delightful.

Billed as "A Million Ideas to Take Home," The North Iowa Home & Landscaping Show offers the latest ideas in landscaping, gardens, lawnmowers, energy-saving products, kitchen remodeling, sun rooms and gas grills.

Sandy Vanek is a landscape designer withEastvold Landscaping, Forest City.

"Everyyear they come out with new paver styles and colors and textures and blends. It is soexciting. The opportunities are just never-ending," Vanek said.

"Asyou can see in our booth here, we like to mix the different textures of pavers andcolors and shapes and patterns.There's lots of fun things youcan do. You can create outdoor rooms with a lot of the pavers."

Outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and fire pits are popular additions to any outdoor living area.

Vanek said raised planters, pillars, seat walls and grill surrounds are a growing industry.

White Oaks Cabinetry, Rudd, offers cabinet options including but not limited to red and white oak, maple, cherry, alder, hickory and ash in painted or glazed finishes. Countertop options include laminate, solid surface, granite, quartz and natural stone.

"Alot of people are going to thesolid surfacetops whether it begranite or quartz or like a Corian type top.They feel like the Corian because you can fix any scratches whereas in Formica you can't," said co-owner Julynn Mellmann.

But Formica can be a budget-conscious option for some homeowners remodeling their kitchen.

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Think Spring at Home Show

AN ambitious project to build a state-of-the-art office building in Bradford city centre to attract up to 3,500 public sector jobs has been welcomed.

The 20 million scheme would see Bradford Council's Jacob's Well office building in Nelson Street flattened, with the land sold to private developers to build a 200,000 sq ft public sector hub.

It is hoped the new building will attract tenants from across the country, such as Government departments, the NHS or the police, all working under the same roof - although no leases have yet been signed.

And it could be open for business in as little as three years' time.

Lobbying group Bradford Breakthrough, which campaigns for the city's regeneration, said the plan was positive news for the city. Chief executive Colin Philpott said: "It's just what Bradford needs. Bringing more jobs into the Bradford district generally - but into the city centre in particular - is obviously a good thing, for all sorts of reasons.

"I think what is particularly interesting about this is the idea of trying to relocate public sector jobs into Bradford - not necessarily ones to do with Bradford Council."

Alan Hall, of Bradford Civic Society, said bringing Government jobs to Leeds had given a huge boost to its regeneration, so if the same could be done in Bradford it would be a very positive step.

He said: "I wouldn't weep over Jacob's Well as a building going. I don't think it has any great merit at all, really.

"It depends what's built on there and what it looks like, but if it is something which the Council feels will attract employment and investment into the middle of Bradford then that can only be a good thing.

"If it acts as a catalyst to regenerate the centre of Bradford, then that's bound to be a good thing. But we will have to wait and see, won't we?"

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Ambitious 20m city centre office project welcomed as 'just what Bradford needs'

In a city where Craftsman bungalows are common, a value-enhancing move is to enclose the original porch or add a deck cover to extend seasonal use while increasing overall square footage of a house. This can be a simple weekend project, putting up a lattice deck roof or adding screened windows and enclosed walls for a sleeping porch.

At the other extreme, and with a contractors help, enclosing an open air porch can be much more elaborateand costly. To make sure the remodeling of a porch or deck is a cost-effective investment in an older home, its a good idea to consult building experts and discuss your space needs and budget.

Walls or Roof = Privacy

Homeowners on a budget may be motivated by a simple desire for added privacy, creating a social space around an open air porch or patio. Or, the house may have been designed without a sunroom or solarium, making the porch a simple pass-through to other living space. Curtained walls and a light-penetrating roof, of either modular plexi-glass or a lattice treatment, will answer these privacy needs economically. Nationwide experts estimate the cost of enclosing a porch, depending on amenities and intended use, at between $2,000 and $72,000, according to an informal survey of online remodeling sites.

Enclosing a porch and converting it to a full-use room can mean adding basics like an HVAC system, electrical outlets, internet access and plumbing. It also can be an opportunity to include more luxurious amenities that improve the value of the home and add to the occupants quality of life: A fireplace, hot tub, solarium, sun roof or solar panels.

Ryan Passow, of Passow Remodeling, meets with homeowners twice before beginning any substantial remodeling job, first to discuss their hopes and dreams for the house and, afterwards, to talk about specifics and establish a budget. We talk about the budget to see if its realistic in light of the improvements a homeowner wants, he said. In nine years of business, porch enclosures and deck roofing have comprised about 10 percent of his companys remodeling work, ranging from $1,000 for the simplest screened porch to more than $40,000to convert a porch into an additional finished room.

Outdoors Advantage

When the choice is between retaining an open-air porch for one or two seasons of use, or enclosing it with screening or finished walls, Georgia contractor John Paulin, offers this advice:

The real difference is in how that structure feels, says Paulin, in Remodeling. With an open porch, you have an unimpeded view. You can cook there, since screens dont hold the smoke in. The floor areaminus wallsfeels bigger. If its connected to an adjoining decka project we often buildone space flows seamlessly into the next. [www.remodeling.com]

If entomology is not your hobby and a goal in remodeling is to screen out pesky warm-season insects, leaving a porch open to the air still is an optionparticularly if a budget prevents enclosing the entire porch. Instead of finished walls and screened windows, open air porches can be kept comparatively bugless with citronella candles or an electric bug zapper. Privacy screens or awnings--even canvas duck Roman Shadesalso are economic alternatives to building walls and adding screens or windows.

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At Home Living: Porch enclosures create another living area

BNSF Railway Co. will spend an estimated $141 million this year for railway maintenance and capacity improvement projects in Colorado, including at several sites in Weld County, the company announced in a news release Tuesday.

The investment comes as part of BNSFs 2015 capital commitment of $6 billion across the U.S.

Because U.S. railroads own and maintain their own networks, the company allocates capital for the infrastructure and expansion projects that will make it possible to serve the growing needs of customers. This ensures the railway network operates efficiently each year.

The program in Colorado will include 580 miles of track surfacing and undercutting work, the replacement of nearly 16 miles of rail and close to 123,500 ties, as well as signal upgrades for federally mandated positive train control.

BNSFs 2015 capital projects in Colorado include:

Extending the sidings along the Brush subdivision in Bijou, Crest, Hudson, Messex, Roggen and Tonville. The work on extending the sidings in Barr, Keensburg, New Hillrose and Wiggins will also start this year, but will be completed in 2016. The siding at Messex also will be converted to Centralized Traffic Control to help manage rail traffic.

Constructing a new siding west of Commerce City enabling trains on the same line to pass resulting in better train capacity.

Extending the tracks at the Denver and Sterling terminals to improve throughput capacity.

Included in the $6 billion commitment is $2.9 billion to replace and maintain core network and related assets, nearly $1.5 billion on expansion and efficiency projects, $200 million for continued implementation of positive train control and $1.4 billion for locomotives, freight cars and other equipment acquisitions.

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Railway company will invest $141 million in Colorado rails, including at several Weld County sites

Scottish Premiership. Click here to bet.

The best bets from Gavin are here for the weekend's action in Scotland. Team news for the Scottish Premiership will appear here on Friday...

Last week I mentioned that the industry hadnt suitably reacted to the departure of Stuart Armstrong from the Dundee United line-up and we were rewarded for opposing them. Another, if slightly smaller, reward is on offer again this week but this time we are backing Jackie McNamaras men. The swing in opinion since Saturdays defeat to St Johnstone has been severe and I think maybe a little too severe. I was looking forward to profiting from an overrated Dundee United again on Tuesday but incredibly they went off as outsiders at home and I ended up backing them instead. Unfortunately for me they had their goalkeeper sent off in the opening minutes, going behind from the resulting penalty, but they came back manfully and forced a draw with Inverness. They will, of course, now be without Michal Szromnik this weekend following that red card but I dont see it as a bad thing as he was badly at fault for St Johnstones opener and replacement Radoslaw Cierzniak was a starter until recently so will be relishing the chance to reclaim his spot. Partick are currently on a run of four consecutive league defeats with Saturday's home defeat to Ross County the most devastating of the bunch. Somehow they are being dragged into the relegation picture and the pressure is building to stop the rot. A month ago Dundee United would have been 4/7 for this game and even taking into account the losses of Armstrong and Gary Mackay-Steven I cant have them any bigger than 8/11. Back Dundee United to win.

Dumbarton are in wretched form at the moment with six defeats in their last seven and in losing their last four home games they have conceded 15 goals to just three scored. Queen of the South on the other hand can be quite happy with how things have been going recently. A run of three consecutive wins and clean sheets was abruptly ended by Hearts at the weekend but the Doonhammers can be proud of that defeat as they took the lead and pressed the champions-elect in ways that only really Hibernian have managed to so far this season. I think there could be few goals in this one and Queen of the South should be able to beat the -1 handicap but if youre feeling really adventurous go for the -2.

Every time I have put Elgin up as value, the game has invariably been snowed off but this week I just cant help myself. Arbroath are probably better than Elgin, I think we can all agree on that, but not by anywhere near as much as the prices suggest. From bottom of the pile Elgin have almost impossibly blasted their way into the promotion race and following a run of seven wins in eight games (the other result was a draw at league leaders Queens Park) they lie six points adrift of fourth place with two games in hand. Jim Weir has absolutely transformed this side in a matter of weeks and whatever the result of this one I think its fair to say that he will be adding to January's manager of the month award. Another big part of this rise up the table has been the performances of former Inverness player Shane Sutherland, hes a pacy forward with Premiership experience and on his day he will really terrorise defences at this level. As good as Elgin have been recently, Arbroath have been almost as bad. The former league leaders are without a win in 2015 and will not be relishing the prospect of facing the league's form horses. The Elgin/draw double chance is a reasonable proposition and I wouldnt put anyone off, it but Im going for the win outright.

Will appear here...

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Tangerines look dream bet

Tucker, GA (PRWEB) February 24, 2015

ReRoof USA announces another successful project with commercial metal roofing in Tucker, Georgia. This standing seam metal roofing project was on a new construction single story commercial building about 7,067 square feet in size. ReRoof USA specializes in metal roofs for new construction, storm damage repair & replacement, and retrofits in and around Raleigh, NC. For more info call 770-456-1611 or visit the website at ReRoofUSA.com.

This project is right at the corner of Danbury Drive NW and S Norcross Tucker Road. It consists of about 4 long buildings offering non-climate controlled storage, and 1 shorter building which may possibly have some climate controlled areas for local residents.

It is a CubeSmart managed location which means it is well known for quality run by the most professional staff. The units at this location feature outside drive up access making it very convenient for people seeking self storage units in Tucker, Georgia. The office hours at this location are Mon to Fri 9:30am to 6pm, Sat 8:30am to 5pm, and Sun 11am to 3pm. The storage gate hours are Mon-Sun 6am to 10pm.

Metal Roofs are perfect for business owners who want to install solar panels on commercial buildings in Tucker, GA. ReRoof USA is a metal roofing installation contractor serving Tucker, GA and the entire Eastern United States with services for new construction, retrofit roof systems, inspections, storm damage repair, and much more. For more information call 770-456-1611 or visit the website at ReRoofUSA.com.

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Metal Roofing Company in Tucker Georgia Completes Installation and Contractor Services At American Self Storage by ...

Perry, GA (PRWEB) February 25, 2015

ReRoof USA is proud to announce the completion of another project at Perry Parkway Self Storage, 1820 Houston Lake Road, Perry, Georgia 31069. This was a new construction project which received a standing seam metal roof. ReRoof USA specializes in metal roofs for new construction, storm damage repair & replacement, and retrofits in and around Raleigh, NC. For more info call 770-456-1611 or visit the website at ReRoofUSA.com.

This project consisted of a single level commercial building about 13,000 square feet in size. They have built a custom modern website which represents a top of the line storage facility. They are also quick to let you know that having a great self storage is not just about the sizes of the units, but more about the quality and customer service.

The facility strives to make sure their friendly team offers the best safety, flexibility, and security in order to keep item stored under tight lock and key. Services include moving and storage supplies, and boxes in order to help customers keep belongings safe and secure. Unit sizes range from 5x10 up to 12x30 for indoor boat storage.

Metal Roofs are perfect for business owners who want to install solar panels on commercial buildings in Perry, GA. ReRoof USA is a metal roofing installation contractor serving Perry, Georgia and the entire Eastern United States with services for new construction, retrofit roof systems, inspections, storm damage repair, and much more. For more information call 770-456-1611 or visit the website at ReRoofUSA.com.

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Metal Roofing Company in Perry, Georgia Announces Roof Installation Completion At Perry Parkway Self Storage by ReRoof ...

Irvine, California (PRWEB) February 24, 2015

Socially responsible business and corporate philanthropy are fast becoming the norm across all industries, among all sizes of companies. Nonprofit organizations depend on the financial and volunteer support that businesses provide, and, increasingly, corporate philanthropy is becoming a way for employers to attract top talent. More and more, job seekers are looking for a deeper level of engagement within their careers and actively seek out companies that are committed to causes greater than themselves. Orange County-based Antis Roofing and Waterproofings recent hires, Morgan White and Cori Vernam, are two latest examples of this phenomenon.

When White and Vernam went looking for new jobs, the promise of a decent salary and short commute were not the only must-haves on their potential employer short lists. With a history of volunteering for nonprofits, they each sought jobs at a company that had a strong philanthropic bent.

As a member of the Junior League, having spent time volunteering with Ronald McDonald House and Crittenton Services for Families and Children, I know that without corporate sponsorship most nonprofits would not be able to function, said Vernam. When it came time to look for a job, I made sure the companies I researched were involved in philanthropy. She, and White, found what they were looking for in Orange County, California HOA and multi-family community roofing and repair firm, Antis Roofing and Waterproofing.

For years, Antis Roofing and Waterproofing has provided the roofing installation labor required for all Habitat for Humanity, Orange County Chapter home builds and renovations. In addition, Antis has helped facilitate significant roofing material donations from Eagle Roofing Products and OC Metals. Antiss dedication results in hundreds of annual volunteer hours benefiting Habitat for Humanity aid recipients, and an opportunity for Antis employees to feel good about themselves while helping their neighbors and the greater community.

We have always believed that giving back is a requirement of owning a successful companynot an option, said Antis owner and CEO Charles Antis. Habitat is our best known partner, but we use our resources and time to support numerous charities and causes. We do it because we can. We do it because we want to, but most important, we do it because its the right thing to do.

And doing the right thing is paying off. Over the past two decades, Antis Roofing and Waterproofing has grown from a one-man outfit to one of the largest roofing companies in Orange Countys HOA and community management industry. One reason for that success, said White, is the Antis teama group of good people who give their best effort not just for a business but for a cause greater than themselves. I go to work every day proud of what Im doing, she said. As an employee, I want to make Antis successful, because the more successful we are, the more we can give. I am so grateful that I have a job that reflects my values and my desire to help.

As marketing manager and business development manager, respectively, Vernam and White see firsthand the impact their philanthropic efforts make on Antiss growth and reputation. Our clients like the double benefit of working with a company that delivers high quality service while maintaining strong social outreach efforts, said Vernam. And because Antis employees are encouraged to participate in the various volunteer walks and benefits that aid their clients philanthropic efforts, the outreach becomes exponential.

There are so many worthwhile causes out there. And with social media, we are more exposed than ever before to peoples hardships, said White. Because of this exposure I think there is a generational shift underway toward wanting to work for a company that is going to make a difference, and this will lead to a higher level of expectation for all businesses.

Meanwhile, the Antis team will keep doing what theyre doing. Philanthropy is a part of who we are. It always has been, and it always will be, said Antis. We want people working for us who share that passion, and Cori and Morgan fit the bill. Im so proud of the Antis team. The defining characteristic of all our employees is that theyre good, enthusiastic peoplethey are the secret to our success.

Originally posted here:
When It Comes to Finding Quality Employees, It Pays to Give

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Heating and Cooling | Elite HVAC Contractors | Prices

Montgomery County could face difficult decisions if the state doesnt help fulfill the school districts funding request for capital projects, officials said Monday.

Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett has recommended approving the county school boards requested $1.74 billion fiscal 2015-20 Capital Improvements Program. Leggetts recommendation banks on the success of a state bill to direct more school construction money to the county.

The county wants to secure an added stream of state aid within the six-year capital program time frame, said county spokesman Patrick Lacefield. Theres no alternative to the continued efforts to get additional revenue, he said.

A meeting Monday between school officials and the County Councils Education Committee was part of an ongoing push for more state funding. County leaders want Maryland legislators to ramp up school construction dollars to support Montgomery projects that would add space amid rising enrollment and repair aging buildings.

County Councilman Craig L. Rice emphasized on Monday the countys reliance on state aid to fund the school district.

Its my hope that not only our representatives in Annapolis, but also our governor, certainly understands that the largest school system in the state, and one of the best school systems in the nation, is at risk, and its at risk of really losing ground when it comes to making sure that were continuing to be able to meet the need of our constituency, said Rice, the council committees chair.

If the Maryland General Assembly doesnt pass the school construction bill in the current legislative session, the county school district could face a cut of $213.3 million from its requested six-year capital program.

The school board has asked for an amended capital program totaling $1.74 billion. The boards request is $223.3 million higher than the previously approved program of $1.53 billion.

School board President Patricia ONeill said Monday that if the district doesnt get the capital money it requested, it might need to delay revitalization and expansion projects, additions and projects such as roof replacements and HVAC equipment.

In Annapolis, Leggett, ONeill and interim Superintendent Larry Bowers urged state lawmakers on Feb. 18 to support a bill to establish a Supplemental Public School Construction Matching Fund Program.

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Montgomery County officials continue plea for state school aid from state -- Gazette.Net