Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

A new owner can help drive sales, and thats exactly what happened for what was Handyman Matters. Sales increased an astounding 614 percent in 2021, from $7 million to $50 million.

Acquired by Ace Hardware in 2019 and rebranded to Ace Handyman Services, the company has an internal goal for franchisees break even in 90 days.

We cant promise that to everybody, but people who are doing our processwere finding that were seeing great success in brand-new franchisees breaking even within 90 days, said Colette Bell, co-founder and vice president of development at Ace Handyman Services.

We have very specific onboarding processes, which entail getting owners out into their communities to make connections, and also launching the website early to gain traction online. The new brand name helps, too.

Ace Hardware saw an increase in customers asking for help with home projects. What they were really seeing was the shift in our society from do-it-yourself, which is what weve always been, to do-it-for-me, which is really where were at right now, she said.

Bell attributed the brands success partly to the Ace rebrand and partly to the pandemic, when people were at home noticing projects theyd like done.

Bell started the company with her husband in 1998 in Denver and started franchising in 2001. The company hires full-time employees, rather than independent contractors like some of its competitors. They work for our franchisees, they have background checks, Bell said. We put a one-year warranty on all of their work.

Ace Handymans continued success has been a product of Ace Hardwares investment, she said. They didnt just buy us and say, Make do, Bell said. Instead, what they did was they bought us and then they said, Oh, wow, youre growing. Lets continue to grow the corporate staff at the same ratio, so that our onboarding, our training, our marketing and our operations could all stay the same for new franchisees as they did for old franchisees. Thats a huge investment.

Continue reading here:
Ace Handyman Services Wants Franchisees to Break Even Faster - Franchise Times

The power of music will once again be utilized to help raise money for Meals on Wheels.

On Saturday, Oct. 8, Greenville Street Park will host the Coweta Blues Benefit, featuring a number of local musicians, including organizer Kris Youmans.

I enjoy using music to support local organizations, Youmans said. Everyone is so happy to help. I love how people in the community network and work together.

It began with Meals on Wheels of Coweta providing home-delivered meals, handyman services, pet care assistance and general companionship to area elderly and homebound.

Youmans said she enjoys bringing awareness to the charities that dont receive much focus, and Meals on Wheels in Coweta is one of those.

In response, Youmans created an annual local concert that brings together a variety of area talent, all willing and able to play a specific genre of music: the blues.

Several bands contribute to the show each year and the fundraiser has become a popular one amongst locals and visitors alike.

Blues Plate Special will be held at Greenville Street Park and begins at 4 p.m. The show will include performances by The Kris Youmans Band, Frankies Blues Mission, Leonard Washington, John Hensley Band and Mary Claire Martin.

Headlining the event is Eric Culberson, Youmans younger brother, and the lead of one of the top blues bands in the southeast.

Im excited about this show, everything has truly come together for the evening and I know it will be wonderful.

Youmans said the event wouldnt be possible without the help of More Music Foundation for Kids, PGRS Roofing, Bigham Masonic Lodge #53, Lubin An Law LLC and Serenity Healing Arts.

For more information, visit the event Facebook page at https://fb.me/e/4IuuUvklU .

Go here to see the original:
'Blues' fundraiser to benefit Meals on Wheels - Newnan Times-Herald

When it comes time to replace your windows, its important to remember that new windows arent just for your living room or bedroom: were proud to offer replacement windows for any room in your home. We offer replacement basement windows to keep your basement comfortable and energy-efficient. When choosing your windows, dont forget about the window shutters and screens were proud to partner with FlexScreen, a top-of-the-line window screen designed for easy use. FlexScreens come standard on all replacement windows from Window Nation.

When you choose Window Nation, you can feel comfortable knowing your replacement windows are built to the highest quality standards. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail from measurement toinstallation, ensuring your windows will be the perfect fit for your home. After your windows are installed, they will be protected by a lifetime warranty and a dedicated customer service team.

We understand there are many window replacement companies eager for your business. At Window Nation, we let the facts speak for themselves:

*Available only in certain markets

Follow this link:
Window Replacement - Home Window Replacement & Installation - Window Nation

Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are one of the most popular styles of window replacements. That means you have a lot of options in terms of materials and colors. With these, you have upper and lower sashes that will allow you to open the window at the top and bottom. These usually open inward, but can also slide open on a vertical track. Sometimes the sash can impede views, but theres a reason why this style is so popular.

Single-hung windows look similar to double-hung windows. The biggest difference is that there is only one sash that will open (thus single versus double.) Usually, the lower sash is the one that will open, and these can also slide vertically. If youre looking to cut costs and maintain quality, single-hung is the more affordable option between the two.

When looking to replace your windows, it may be time to consider reconfiguring your windows to start enjoying more of your view. Picture windows are one-glass panes that are great options for entryways, living rooms and bedrooms. They are energy-efficient, offer increased light and visibility, and require little maintenance. However, it is essential to note they are fixed windows, so they do increase ventilation and if they break, the entire window will need to be replaced.

Are you looking to add a decorative flair to your entryway or living room for more curb appeal? Usually offered in unusual shapes or with decorative glass accents, a fixed window may be just what you are looking for to replace your existing mundane windows. But note that you should place fixed windows where lighting and ventilation arent necessary.

Another of the most popular types of windows, casement windows have a hinge on one side and open outwardly. As a result, these bring in lots of ventilation and can be quite easy to open. You do have to think about the best places for windows like these because they open outwardly. If you have a tight space, or a high traffic area, this might not be the best choice.

Awning windows are designed to keep rain out when theyre open. Similar to casement windows, they open at the bottom, but instead of a side hinge, they are hinged at the top.

These windows are another of the most affordable options. Moving horizontally across a track, they usually have one moving panel and another that stays fixed. However, there are windows where more than one panel slides. Because of the shape, there can be obstructions from view, much like the hung windows. Sliding windows can also trap dirt and debris on the bottom track, which can impede closing if not properly maintained.

Also known as projection windows, these types of windows project outward from the house. Consisting of multiple fixed panels positioned at various angles, these allow lots of natural light to rooms. But they are more difficult to install and are often more expensive.

Visit link:
Best Replacement Window Companies Of September 2022

Three Brothers LLC Boise is a top-rated contracting company. In a recent update, the firm announced that they offer peerless local window installation services.

Boise, ID In a website post, Three Brothers LLC Boise firm announced that they offer peerless local window installation services.

The experts noted that window installation service in Boise is a significant investment that requires professionals to handle. The team appreciates that windows can transform the homes appearance, especially when installed correctly. That is why they have technicians that have undergone comprehensive training giving them ultimate professionalism to handle any project right the first time, regardless of their size.

The agency said their technicians know the ins and outs of Boise window installation service, including installation, repairs, and replacements. They can help clients pick the right windows with high-performance thermal efficiency, low maintenance, and durability. They use their unmatched experience to ensure that clients get the service they deserve.

Again, the team said their expertise and decades of experience had earned them a robust reputation as the best window installation contractor in Boise. Their passion for supporting and protecting the local community drives their deep commitment to offer excellent work consistently. Also, valuing the clients convenience, the agency prioritizes arriving on time to complete the project on the same day.

About Three Brothers LLC Boise

Three Brothers LLC Boise is a family-owned and operated business in Boise, ID. The company aims to provide the utmost customer satisfaction without cutting any corners. Besides, the team walks the extra mile by offering expert-friendly services to their clients. Their priority is to provide efficient services on time at competitive prices to suit their customers budgets. This way, they wont have to break the bank to have top-tier services.

Media ContactCompany Name: Three Brothers LLC BoiseContact Person: Devon RothEmail: Send EmailPhone: (208) 917-1616City: BoiseState: IDCountry: United StatesWebsite: https://threebrothersllc.com/

The rest is here:
Three Brothers LLC Boise Announces That They Are Offering Peerless Local Window Installation Services - Digital Journal

A South London council must fork out 100 after a woman was forced to wait more than two months for her windows to be fixed.

The housing watchdog found delays and failures in Kingston Councils handling of the unnamed womans complaint.

The woman claimed incompetence from the council had caused her a great deal of stress and inconvenience.

She also complained about the councils decision in December 2020 to keep a single point of contact to restrict communication with her.

The resident told the council on March 6, 2021 that there was water inside the double glazing in two window panes above the balcony and the seals and outer edge of the balcony window were broken.

The authoritys contractor later apologised for cancelling an appointment to repair the window on April 21 at very late notice due to a communication error.

It couldnt attend an appointment on April 29 that the resident requested, and rescheduled for May.

The Housing Ombudsman report found the delayed window repair was frustrating for the resident but said the old windows still functioned correctly.

It took around 49 working days, between March 6 and May 18, for the windows to be replaced after the initial complaint.

The report says: In this case, no evidence was seen to show theold windows stopped performing their required function before the replacements were installed.

"Nor was any information seen to show that theresident was adversely impacted by the water between the window panesinthe interim period.

But it adds: It is reasonable to conclude the resident was inconvenienced by thelate cancellationof the initial appointment on21 April 2021.

"The timelinesuggeststhe [single point of contact] could have notified the residentabout the cancellationprior to her allocated timeslot.

If they had, her overall level of inconvenience may have been reduced.It is also reasonable to conclude the resident had to make additional arrangements to facilitatea further (preventable) appointmenton5 May2021.

On that basis, the landlords apology was not sufficient to redressthe resident givenwhat went wrong.

"Generally speaking, an apology is ofteninadequateredressgivenmultiple issues.

"In this case, the evidence confirmsthe landlords failures includeddelay, a rescheduled appointment and incorrect information in the landlords stage one response.

"As a result, there was service failure in respect of the landlords responseto the residents report of window repairs, along with its subsequent complaint handling.

The council has been ordered topay 100 for the distress and inconvenience experienced by the woman due to the delays and failures.

More:
Kingston compensation for woman who waited more than two months for window repair - Surrey Comet

MANITOWOC -Proposed renovations to the Manitowoc County Courthouse are likely to cost $25 million to $30 million, which could increase property taxes by 5% or 6%.

According to County Executive Bob Ziegelbauer, the renovations would likely be funded through long-term borrowing, which would take the county 20 to 25 years to pay off.

We can do that in the current marketplace because we have low debt right now, he said. So, we can easily borrow the money.

He estimated county property owners would see a one-time increase of about $30 per $100,000, or 5%-6%, on their annual property taxes.

The courthouse has been a landmark of downtown Manitowoc since 1906 and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1981.

The courthouse itself is a focal point in Manitowoc County and we have to protect it and renovate it as necessary so that it lasts for another hundred years, Ziegelbauer said.

The restoration of the dome, along with replacement of all 120 exterior windows, is the third phase of a three-phase plan created in 2004 to address the restoration of the courthouse exterior.

The other two phases included replacing the roof and copper balustrade, along with replacing the exterior stairs and installing a ramp in 2010; and tuck-pointing the masonry on the entire building in 2012.

During a joint meeting between the Public Works Committee and the Executive Committee in August, a representative from Strang Architects presented the findings of a Dome and Facility Improvements Study that was published June 30.

Five projects were considered in the study courthouse tower restoration and repair, atrium interior dome restoration, courthouse exterior window replacement, and two HVAC-related projects.

According to the study, conditions of the courthouse tower were worse than expected as a result of water leakage.

The project intent would be a refurbishment of the historic construction to best prepare the tower for the next 100 years, the study states.

The entire project has yet to be discussed by the full County Board of Supervisors, which will need to approve the project before funding can be secured.

Ziegelbauer called it a once-in-a-century project.

Its our responsibility to preserve the building the courthouse for the long term," he said."Its not a luxury, its a requirement, I think, a responsibility that we all have.

The County Board is expected to consider the project after the 2023 budget has been finalized in November.

More:Manitowoc school board bans teachers from sharing views on controversial topics in classrooms

More:As a lawsuit lingers, Manitowoc tourism director says building new city department has been 'very fun and exciting'

Board member Paul Hansen called for ideas to fund the renovations during the County Board meeting Sept. 20. He said the Finance Committee, of which he is chairman, has been briefed by Ziegelbauer about the plans to fund the courthouse renovations through borrowing, but said the committee would like to hear from supervisors who might have different ideas about how to acquire those funds.

A basic timeline included in the study estimated that construction on the tower and dome would be done through 2024-2025.

ContactAlisa Schafer ataschafer@gannett.com. Followher on Twitter at @AlisaMSchafer.

See more here:
What to know as Manitowoc County mulls property tax hike to help fund courthouse renovations expected to exceed $25M - Herald Times Reporter

FP StaffSep 29, 2022 13:00:11 IST

LG Display showcased a rather bizarre new piece of tech that they hope will get adopted all over the world pretty soon. They are showcasing the Transparent OLED for Subway Trains at InnoTrans 2022, the worlds largest trade fair for transport technology. LG hopes the new OLED panel replaces traditional windows in Metro trains and subways all over the world.

Evidently, as a part of LGs pilot programme, two cities in China have already replaced the windows in some routes of the subway.

The Beijing (Line 6) and Shenzhen (Line 10) subway trains have been upgraded to replace some of the windows with 55-inch transparent OLED displays.

The technology uses specialized tempered glass that gives its transparent OLED displays increased strength and durability to withstand vibrations and strong impacts, according to LG Display, allowing it to replace standard train windows. The company suggests some useful applications for the tech, such as displaying maps, news, and weather forecasts on screen while transparent, thereby retaining its use as an actual window.

The main draw, however, will be for advertising, as rail corporations will definitely try to recoup the cost of installing these panels, but also eke out a nice profit.

LG is using the train upgrades as a way of demonstrating how important the company believes transparent displays are set to be. The application of transparent displays will become more diverse, said Dr. Chang-ho Oh, Senior Vice President & Head of the TV Business Unit at LG Display. LG Display aims to supply products to a wide range of industries in line with its vision as the leading display solution provider.

The two lines in Beijing and Shenzhen are just the start, with LG planning to expand the use of its transparent displays to more subways and will work closely with train glass manufacturers to speed up deployment. LG also sees the technology being used in self-driving cars, airplanes, and smart homes/buildings in future.

Excerpt from:
LG wants to replace Metro and other subway train windows with transparent OLED displays - Firstpost

WCU Stories September 28, 2022

By Camryn Eaton

On Aug. 18, Western Carolina University welcomed a new sculpture to the Apodaca Science Building.

The art installation, a breathtaking piece titled Illuminated Sphere, was brought to life by artists John Littleton and Kate Vogel. Littleton and Vogel are from Bakersville and have collaborated for more than 40 years on cast and blown glass artworks.

Illuminated Sphere

The installation was funded by WCUs allocation of $250,000 to commission works of art that contribute to the visual interest of the Apodaca Science Building. The WCU Fine Art Museum spearheaded the initiative for bringing public art to the campus. WCUs Public Art Program aims to beautify shared spaces on campus for the enjoyment of the greater WCU community.

In Littleton and Vogels most recent pieces of art, they look to incorporate motion and enable the viewer to interact with the piece of art. With its steel base, Illuminated Sphere elevates a set of five concentric glass spheres suspended in gimbaled steel rings. Upon first glance, the sculpture may appear static, however, a handle is affixed to the glass to put the golden sphere in motion.

Watching the reactions and response to the piece was very satisfying, Vogel said. We hope the sculpture will spark conversations among the staff, students and visitors to the Apodaca Science Building for decades to come.

Illuminated Sphere joins the Apodaca Science Buildings collection of works from artists including Joel Queen and Digalil Native American Student Organization, Martha Neaves, Janis Miltenberger and Amber Rousseau. Forthcoming installations planned through 2023 will feature the talents of Hoss Haley, Mark Nystrom and Joshua Adams, among others.

For more information about the artists and to view other works, visit http://www.littletonvogel.com.

Original post:
New Apodaca art installation showcases the talents of renowned glass artists - Western Carolina University News

A stained glass window once dedicated to Bristol slave trader Edward Colston is to be replaced by a depiction of the Bristol Bus Boycott, with Jesus among the campaigners.

The new stained glass window will be installed at St Mary Redcliffe Church next year, after church leaders invited people to submit designs in a competition.

The winning design is from Bristol based junior doctor and artist, Ealish Swift, whose design depicting the bus boycott is one of four panels designed to replace the four individual windows of the North Transept window.

Read more: Roy Hackett funeral: Tears, laughter and tributes as the legend of Bristol is laid to rest

For centuries, the church in Redcliffe had a four-panel window depicting the story of the Good Samaritan, which was dedicated to Edward Colston.

The parish church held annual services celebrating and commemorating Colston, including one in 2017 which saw schoolchildren given a 'Colston bun' on the same day as the church also was illuminated in purple to mark International Modern Slavery Day.

It was only after the statue of Edward Colston was toppled in June 2020 in the centre of Bristol, that churches in Bristol - including Bristol Cathedral and St Mary Redcliffe - re-examined how their buildings commemorated slavers like Colston, and the church leaders at St Mary Redcliffe made the decision to remove the four stained glass panels later in 2020. They were replaced temporarily with plain panels and then the church invited the public to submit new designs in a competition.

A spokesperson from the church said they launched the competition as 'part of an ongoing process of reflection and action to ensure that todays church building echoes St Mary Redcliffes stated values and is welcoming to all'.

The theme of the entries - And who is my neighbour?, was to explore a contemporary understanding of what it means to be a good Samaritan today.

Ealish Swift explained her design draws upon the "the deep and complex history of Bristol, from atrocities of the past to modern day concerns, to remind us of the journeys of our neighbours and how we have come to be together at this moment, looking forwards towards a shared future."

The four panels are captioned 'Love Your Neighbour - Leviticus 19:18' and the first panel depicts a boat in stormy seas full of people. The second depicts the Bristol Bus Boycott, and the third shows refugees making a perilous journey on an inflatable dinghy. The final panel depicts a multi-cultural Bristol with the Suspension Bridge in the background.

Each panel contains Jesus among the group, and in the bus boycott panel he's holding up a placard behind the organisers.

The Bristol Bus Boycott happened in 1963, and is widely-regarded as Britain's own civil rights movement. While Martin Luther King was leading bus boycotts, marches and rallies in the Deep South of the US, a group of black Bristolians were organising a boycott of the Bristol Bus Company, because they were operating a 'colour bar' which effectively stopped black and Asian people from getting a job working on the buses in Bristol.

The boycott lasted for much of the summer of 1963 and ultimately was successful - and also led directly to the Race Relations Acts that outlawed such overt discrimination in the 1960s and 1970s.

The boycott lost one of its leaders only last month, when Roy Hackett passed away - and his funeral last week was attended by hundreds.

Ealish was unable to be at the unveiling of her design as she was performing surgery, but was delighted to find out she was the winner. She said: "I am deeply honoured that my design has been chosen for this wonderful space that means so much to me. I can't wait to work with the amazing Steve Clare to bring my ideas to life.

"I'm thrilled that my design seemed to resonate so much with the local community and I hope everyone will come to visit to see the final piece and experience everything this wonderful church, and community, has to offer!"

The winning design is on display in a small temporary exhibition at St Mary Redcliffe until October 9, and next year will be recreated in stained glass.

Parish Priest, Dan Tyndall, said, The winning design is powerful and imaginative, managing to resonate with contemporary issues and yet will also stand the test of time. Ealish's concept was very popular with visitors to the church and will sit well within the current Victorian window".

Read more from the original source:
Jesus joins the Bristol Bus Boycott to replace Colston stained glass window - Bristol Live