Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND Tongas main island could have its internet service restored within two weeks, although it may take much longer to repair the connection to the smaller islands, a cable company official said Tuesday.

The single undersea fiber-optic cable which connects the Pacific nation to the outside world was severed 10 days ago after a huge volcanic eruption and tsunami.

That left most people unable to connect with loved ones abroad. For days, people couldnt get through on their phones, by email, or through social media.

Since then, Tongas Digicel has been able to restore international call services to some areas by using satellite connections. Some people have been able to send emails or get limited internet connectivity.

Samieula Fonua, who chairs the board at Tonga Cable Ltd., the state-owned company which owns the fiber-optic cable, said a repair ship had left from Papua New Guinea and was due to stop over in Samoa by Monday to pick up supplies. It should then arrive in Tonga by Feb. 1.

Fonua said the CS Reliance had a crew of about 60 aboard, including engineers, divers and medical staff. He said its equipment included a robot which could assess the cable on the sea bed.

Fonua said preliminary estimates indicated the break in the cable was located about 37 kilometers (23 miles) offshore from the main island of Tongatapu. He said that all going well, the crew should be able to repair the cable by Feb. 8, restoring the internet to about 80% of Tongas customers.

The cable runs from Tonga to Fiji, a distance of about 800 kilometers (500 miles), and was first commissioned in 2013 at a cost of about $16 million. It was financed through grants from the World Bank Group and Asian Development Bank, and increased Tongas internet capacity fivefold.

But like many small Pacific countries, Tonga relies heavily on a single cable to stay connected and has little in the way of a back-up plan. Three years ago, a cable break believed to have been caused by a ship dragging its anchor also led to weeks of disruptions.

A second, domestic fiber-optic cable that connects Tongas smaller islands to the main island could prove much more difficult to repair. Fonua said that cable runs near the undersea volcano which erupted and may have been severely damaged. It might need extensive repairs or even a replacement, he said.

Fonua said the focus was on fixing the main international cable, and they could deal with the domestic connections at a later time.

He said Tongans had been somewhat understanding of the communication disruptions caused by the disaster, which killed three people, destroyed dozens of homes and tainted water supplies with volcanic ash.

People are calm. Coming out of a total blackout, just being able to call outside and send an email has settled them a bit, Fonua said. By the time they start getting more frustrated, Im hoping well have the cable connected by then.

jQuery(document).ready( function(){ window.fbAsyncInit = function() { FB.init({ appId : '404047912964744', // App ID channelUrl : 'https://static.ctvnews.ca/bellmedia/common/channel.html', // Channel File status : true, // check login status cookie : true, // enable cookies to allow the server to access the session xfbml : true // parse XFBML }); FB.Event.subscribe("edge.create", function (response) { Tracking.trackSocial('facebook_like_btn_click'); });

// BEGIN: Facebook clicks on unlike buttonFB.Event.subscribe("edge.remove", function (response) {Tracking.trackSocial('facebook_unlike_btn_click');});};

var plusoneOmnitureTrack = function () {$(function () {Tracking.trackSocial('google_plus_one_btn');})}var facebookCallback = null;requiresDependency('https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1&appId=404047912964744', facebookCallback, 'facebook-jssdk');});

jQuery(document).ready( function(){ window.fbAsyncInit = function() { FB.init({ appId : '404047912964744', // App ID channelUrl : 'https://static.ctvnews.ca/bellmedia/common/channel.html', // Channel File status : true, // check login status cookie : true, // enable cookies to allow the server to access the session xfbml : true // parse XFBML }); FB.Event.subscribe("edge.create", function (response) { Tracking.trackSocial('facebook_like_btn_click'); });

// BEGIN: Facebook clicks on unlike button FB.Event.subscribe("edge.remove", function (response) { Tracking.trackSocial('facebook_unlike_btn_click'); }); };

var plusoneOmnitureTrack = function () {$(function () {Tracking.trackSocial('google_plus_one_btn');})}var facebookCallback = null;requiresDependency('https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1&appId=404047912964744', facebookCallback, 'facebook-jssdk');});

Source link

See the rest here:
Internet to Tongas main island could be restored in 2 weeks - newsconcerns

Plans to control traffic, new development, and unsightly satellite dishes are being proposed for Cullompton.

Mid Devon District Councils cabinet, which met on Tuesday, January 4, has approved its draft version of the Cullompton Conservation Area Assessment and Management Plan (CAMP) following public consultation.

The consultation took place between June 28 and August 13 2021, with a public meeting being held on July 27, as well as face-to-face consultations.

Key areas identified for improvement in the CAMP include:

Volume and Nature of traffic, and Highway Management

The report states: Given the nodal connection to the motorway, there is high volume of traffic in the main streets of Cullompton which is passing through on its way to and from the motorway.

This includes heavy good vehicles passing through the historic core. The volume of traffic results in queuing at the principal junctions, and when deliveries are made along Fore Street.

Along with the narrow pavement widths, this makes the experience of the historic core quite unpleasant, with the noise, fumes and dirt from the traffic, and at times a feeling of danger for those on foot and bicycle.

Traffic Management

The report states: There is clutter from signage, road markings and traffic islands, some of which relates to highways for direction or for restrictions such as parking.

Public Realm

The report states: A number of negative impacts in the public realm have been identified within the conservation area appraisal. Some are site specific whilst others have an impact throughout the conservation area.

The report lists poor quality paving and surface materials which fail to enhance or re-inforce the historic identity of the conservation area , and that the public accessible pathways to the leat, Forge Way car park, and to Shortlands Road are not legible or welcoming.

It adds: The street furniture, as distinct from traffic control, has grown organically. This has led to a cluttered and uncoordinated appearance

The Higher Bullring is dominated by car parking, the volume and nature of traffic passing through it and associated traffic control measures, and street furniture which has been provided organically over time. The listed War Memorial is a key landmark building here. It is compromised by car parking, and uncoordinated street furniture.

Loss of original architectural details and inappropriate building materials

The report adds: Many of the unlisted, and some of the listed, buildings in the conservation area have been adversely affected by the replacement of original timber sash windows, casement windows and doors with uPVC or aluminium, the replacement of natural roof slates with man-made slate or natural slate being turnerised.

In the case of shopfronts there are a number of cases where the replacement or alteration of historic shop fronts and advertisements has spoiled the external appearance of a building and the local streetscape.

Lack of routine building maintenance and repair

The report states: Buildings in the conservation area are generally in good condition but there are instances of the neglect through lack of routine maintenance and repair which results in unsightly buildings.

Unsightly satellite dishes

The report states: Satellite dishes are a feature of modern living. Unfortunately, when located on the front of a historic building, a satellite dish can spoil the appearance of the building and the street scene.

They have a particularly noticeable adverse effect when a black dish is sited on a light background, especially render. In certain circumstances, satellites dishes may have been installed without the need for planning permission and/or listed building consent.

Sub-division of properties into flats

The report states: Sub-division of properties into flats or let for multiple occupancy can tend to erode external character through poorly maintained buildings, gardens and shared areas by absentee landlords. There can be a lack of external storage for bins etc. and multiple external wires for services.

Overhead power lines and telephone lines

The report states: A number of streets retain above ground servicing by telephone and power cables radiating out from and between telegraph poles which adds clutter to the street scene. In many cases the telegraph poles are metal and have been poorly maintained.

Negative sites and buildings

The report states: This appraisal has identified negative buildings and areas i.e. buildings and areas which clearly detract from the character or appearance of the conservation area and could suitably be redeveloped or improved.

In addition, there are is are vacant sites where some form of built development has the potential to improve the town-scape.

At the meeting Councillor Richard Chesterton (Lower Culm, Conservative), cabinet member for planning and economic regeneration explained: Overall, there were 67 submissions from individuals, 61 using the proforma, and were either online by post at the drop off point and six were letters.

Each of the comments made is responded to with an officer comment.

Overall, comments on the CAMP and its contents are positive and proposed changes to the CAMP are listed in detail with the draft CAMP, which has been updated to include all the changes.

The next stage is that the CAMP is taken to full council in accordance with Mid Devon's constitution and the recommendation which reflects this.

The recommendation is cabinet recommends to council that the Draft CAMP including proposed alterations to the extent of the Cullompton Conservation Area of the planning listed building and Conservation Areas Act 1990 is amended, be approved.

Councillor Nikki Woollatt (Cullompton North, Independent) added: What I really like about this is the management plan principles. I'm very keen to see those move forward into an action plan so this is a document that that does bring about improvements rather than just a policy document that gets referred to occasionally.

This could be used to really drive forward improvements in certain areas.

However, Councillor Graeme Barnell said that while it was a great document it did not address the issue of the motor car and the impact it is having on Cullompton.

The issue is the same across all of our towns, he said.

It's not just the road safety issues, it's the noise, air pollution, the continuing dividing of our communities by ever-increasing streams of traffic.

The issue in Cullompton and most of our towns is a debate between retailers who believe that through traffic brings custom and the rest of the population who have to put up with it.

I think we are continuing to duck the issues in many ways here.

I have great respect for Cullompton Town Council and for Nikki and all the other people involved in these issues, but we need to be taking a more robust approach to the need for through traffic and how we might deal with it in our towns.

He said that the Cullompton relief road plan would not make it all go away

He added: We're going to have to really think carefully about how we deal with through traffic through our towns and mitigate the impact it's having on our communities.

Get the best stories about the things you love most curated by us and delivered to your inbox every day. Choose what you love here

Read the original:
Traffic and ugly satellite dishes targeted in Cullompton - Devon Live

In 1969 when independent Indias finally got round to thinking about a replacement for George V under the canopy behind India Gate, three names were considered, Nehruji never wanted to remove George V from it, and plans to put Gandhiji there also got stymied. However, Netaji will finally prevail

A statue of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose will be installed at India Gate on his 125th birth anniversary. Image courtesy: News18

Amid the kerfuffle over the rejection of West Bengals tableau for the Republic Day parade and Prime Minister Narendra Modis announcement that a statue of Subhas Chandra Bose will be installed in the canopy that Edwin Lutyens designed for George V, not many will remember a factoid: a gigantic statue of Netaji had already graced Rajpath in 2005. It was part of the tableau of the justice department of the Union government, but that is beside the point!

While it is not known in what avatar West Bengal proposed to celebrate Netaji on their 2022 float, the one that featured in that 2005 Republic Day parade in New Delhi had him in military uniform, arm raised and finger pointing forward, simulating his famous Dilli Chalo! clarion call. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced that she will salute that Netaji tableau before Kolkatas Republic Day parade, so the effort has not gone to waste.

Also read: Excluding West Bengal's tableau from Republic Day parade is an assault on representative democracy

It cannot be said that Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose has been underrepresented in his home state and the city whose municipal corporation was his first political stomping ground. Besides a clutch of educational institutions and stadia major and minor around West Bengal, Kolkatas international airport bears his name as does a neighbourhood and, confusingly, two major roads in different parts of the city. And countless Netaji busts dot small parks and kerbsides.

But the most iconic statue, without doubt, is the one of a uniformed Netaji astride a rearing horse (with a curiously erect tail), installed in 1969 in the middle of Kolkatas busiest multi-road crossing at Shyambazar, amid a tangle of overhead wires. And last year, a Bengali autorickshaw driver spent all his savings and even borrowed money to the commission, finance and erect a fiberglass statue of his hero also astride a horse in his hometown of Basirhat.

His reason for doing so is telling. He is quoted by The Telegraph as saying, I spent only a few years in school. But I realised Netaji was the real icon of our country. I later heard about him from many learned persons and concluded that without his initiative, Independence would have come late. That feeling runs so strong in Bengali hearts that the announcement that Netaji is about to get pride of place in New Delhis Central Vista will undoubtedly resonate.

For a long time the Bengali community that formed a prominent component of the pre-Independence population of New Delhi has felt under-represented in the city of the Nehru-Gandhis. This, even though the capital has a Netaji Nagar (housing mid-level government servants) and a Netaji Subhas Park (renamed, not named) situated on Netaji Subhas Road near Red Fort that also has a bronze statue of the swashbuckling freedom fighter and stormy petrel.

But now, things cant get bigger (and better) than a statue of Bengals valiant son adroitly juxtaposed between a national war memorial and the Central Vista planned by the British itself being thoroughly reimagined and reconstructed. The commemoration of Bose will also shine a light on the oft-forgotten fact that India did not win freedom by satyagraha and ahimsa alone; and that many sons and daughters of India (including Bengalis) died fighting that good fight.

Interestingly, in 1969 when independent Indias government finally got round to thinking about a replacement for George V under the canopy behind India Gate, three names were considered. The first two names were Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. The international news agency Associated Press described the third name as a dark horse and a militant Bengali nationalist: Subhas Chandra Bose. Gandhiji was chosen but never made it to the canopy.

An RTI led to the Central Public Works Department revealing there was no move to install Gandhijis statue in the canopy but added that in 1994 PV Narasimha Raos cabinet decided to develop the area around India Gate as August Kranti Udyan and install a statue there but no specific spot was fixed. In 2009 replying to a question from Congress MP Rajeev Shukla, the Minister of State for Urban Development Saugata Roy said that the decision was taken in 1992.

Roy also said the plan to install Gandhijis statue was put on the backburner after a writ petition in 1995 when a Group of Ministers on directions of the Union Cabinet recommended that the statue be installed at the site of the canopy. In a response to that writ petition from heritage activists, the Delhi High Court passed an interim order in July 1995 restraining the government from altering/ removing/ demolishing the canopy at India Gate complex.

Though the Court disposed of the matter in March 2005, Roy told Parliament there is no immediate demand or proposal to install a Gandhi statue at the India Gate. By then, of course, Gandhijis statue made by the legendary sculptor Ram Sutar for the canopy had already been installed post-haste in the grounds of Parliament in 1993 after the then opposition MP George Fernandes accused the Congress government of leaving it in the middle of the road.

Curiously, the statue of George V continued to preside over Central Vista during the entire long prime ministerial tenure of the third candidate for placement under that canopy, Jawaharlal Nehru. This may seem an inexplicable incongruity, but it must be remembered that Nehru was also one of those who favoured a dominion status for India (recognising the British Crown) post-Independence, a position that was vehemently opposed by Netaji, who wanted total severance.

There will be attempts to stymie the placement of Netajis statue under the canopy too but as there is no proposal to dismantle the Lutyens designed structure, heritage activists may find little cause to oppose it. The proposal has the first-mover advantage as even political parties will now be averse to doing anything to deride the idea. Maybe Mamata Banerjee will propose replacing Queen Victorias statue at Kolkatas landmark Victoria Memorial with one of Netaji too.

Read all theLatest News,Trending News,Cricket News,Bollywood News,India NewsandEntertainment Newshere. Follow us onFacebook,TwitterandInstagram.

Originally posted here:
Netajis Dilli Chalo campaign finally finds fruition ..tussle over Bengal tableaus exclusion at R-Day parade - Firstpost

MarketsandResearch.biz cases Global Backsplash & Wall Tile Services Market from 2021 to 2027 offer all out-market examination and projections that offer total system-based assessment responses to ensure the most unprecedented efficiency in all segments and regions, with definite figures and estimates. The report consolidates Backsplash & Wall Tile Services force of the market, critical drivers of market improvement, market division portions, and progressing generally market changes.

This examination of the overall Backsplash & Wall Tile Services market includes partaking in market improvement segments and drivers and limitations. Moreover, there are various segments that are associated with the report, for instance, market affecting bits, related organization factors, market drive sections and areas, openings and current new developments, and fundamental market improvement information.

DOWNLOAD FREE SAMPLE REPORT: https://www.marketsandresearch.biz/sample-request/192814

The research noted the main categories of actual products:

The following core applications emphasized the study:

In the market research, there are several nations:

The global market is emphasized arising players:

ACCESS FULL REPORT: https://www.marketsandresearch.biz/report/192814/global-backsplash-wall-tile-services-market-2021-by-company-regions-type-and-application-forecast-to-2026

On the overall Backsplash & Wall Tile Services market, their couple of elements, for instance, thing headway, premium for the thing in the general market, invasion by various market sections, progressing new developments, association procedures, and boss market factors which are being considered for the overall assessment of the overall market.

Guess of the Study:

Customization of the Report:

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

Contact UsMark StoneHead of Business DevelopmentPhone: +1-201-465-4211Email: sales@marketsandresearch.biz

View original post here:
Global Backsplash & Wall Tile Services Market to witness an impressive growth during the forecast period 2021 to 2027 The Oxford Spokesman - The...

On a cold January night two years ago, Regina Cappelli, a single grandmother raising two young grandsons, got the call from her local county child welfare agency.

Another grandchild an infant had just been removed from Cappellis daughter, also the mother of the other boys. Come get the baby, or he would go into foster care, she was told.

Overwhelmed and unprepared, Cappelli called Karen Barnes, another single grandmother raising a grandchild.

I was devastated and I was in tears, the Delaware County woman recalled. When you get these kids, you get the clothes on their back and thats it. I said, I dont know what Im going to do.

Her friend wasnt just sympathetic. She was outraged.

Karen said, Thats it! Somethings got to be done!

That night, Barnes got on social media. The next day, when she showed up at Cappellis home, the grandmother couldnt believe her eyes.

She filled up my living room! said Cappelli, now raising her three grandsons. Four contractor bags full of clothes, diapers out the wazoo, formula, a Pack n Play, a stroller, blankets galore, wipes. I couldnt imagine something like that from just overnight.

Barnes was also amazed by the robust response her posts received. She took it to heart.

I said to myself, I have a gift and I am definitely being called, Barnes said. I can do this.

And thus, Grands Stepping Up (GSU) was born. A nonprofit organization, GSU provides support to grandparents raising their grandchildren and kinship guardians raising their family members.

Everything I do and try to empower others to do comes from saying yes, said Barnes, 58.

For this former volunteer program coordinator who had to stop working due to a chronic gastrointestinal condition, saying yes meant taking emergency custody and eventually adopting her granddaughter, Ellianna, now 9. It came to mean seeing other guardians who needed help, just like she often had, and deciding to do something about it.

Grands Stepping Up has come a long way since it started in 2020.

The program runs Denis Pantry, a place where any member of the Delaware County community and grandparents from anywhere can come for food, clothing, and baby goods. GSU estimates the pantry served about 500 families last year. It is located in the basement of Llanerch Hills Chapel in Havertown and named after Barnes brother, who died of COVID-19.

But Grands Stepping Up has expanded in other ways, too.

The group has partnered with other organizations like the Main Line Art Center and the Kiwanis of the Main Line to provide free art programs for the grandkids. GSU has also helped provide holiday meals for hundreds of grandfamilies.

GSU now has a legal clinic with local family lawyers offering their services on a sliding scale. There are three licensed therapists volunteering their services for trauma-focused counseling for the children and their guardians. The group also has been able to provide some financial assistance.

Often, GSU will put out a special request on its Facebook page and get it granted, like the funds raised to pay for a tombstone. Their appeals are seldom ignored, Barnes said.

I can tell you we always have our donors who come through for us, she said. A lot of people have been touched by so much stuff in their lives, they want to come forward to help.'

A lot of the grandparents raising grandchildren are living on fixed incomes. Some who do get governmental support say it is meager, but they are reluctant to get more involved with the child welfare system, even though it would mean more aid.

Some profess a lack of trust in the foster care system. They say they dont believe the intrusion would be in the best interest of their families. Others feel theyre to blame for their offsprings problems that rendered them unable to care for their own children.

I was so mortified, embarrassed. I was thinking this was my fault, Barnes said.

The bottom line, they say, is many of these family caretakers are struggling.

We truly are, as grandparents and most importantly the children, the silent victims of the opioid epidemic and the mental-health crisis in this country, Barnes said. We are the silent victims that no one was even considering because were all hiding.

But with a group like Grands Stepping Up, theyre no longer alone. They are helping each other.

Its like a parenting organization for grandparents, said Mary Eileen Johnston, 62, a Havertown grandmother raising her 4-year-old grandson. I know theyll always be there for me even if its just to ring and say, I need to talk.

Johnston discovered GSU on Facebook about two years ago. She stopped by the pantry to check it out, bringing some items to donate, and got to know some of the people active in GSU. A church organist who lost work when many congregations stopped in-person services, Johnston was able to find recreation opportunities for her grandson from GSUs partners. Thats included arts supplies and programs through the Kiwanis and the Main Line Art Center and dance lessons donated by Twirl, a Newtown Square dance studio. And Johnston has become a pantry volunteer.

Community members have heard about GSU and decided to pitch in, like Amie and Jim Cannon, a Havertown couple who adopted five children from the foster care system. Jim Cannon has extended his Cannon Handyman Services to fix grandparents heaters. Amie, meanwhile, helped run a project in which the grandchildren grew tomatoes that they presented to the grandparents.

Its kids learning to give back, she said.

Kathy Baggio, 68, a retired medical transcriptionist from Secane, is also a pantry volunteer and chair of GSUs support group. Raising her grandsons, ages 12 and 17, GSU has helped with desperately needed car repairs, utility bills, and funds toward a housing security deposit.

Theres definitely not enough support for the grandparents, and Im not saying that because I am one, Baggio said. A lot of grandparents have given up their savings, if they had any. They are on fixed incomes, and things have become so much harder out there.

Many of these families also have mental-health needs.

Beth Tyson directs GSUs trauma-focused therapeutic services. At present, three licensed therapists offer counseling at no charge, but Tyson hopes to find others who will also volunteer services. Many of the children have experienced trauma and need mental health, but many of the grandparents could use help as well, said Tyson, a child trauma consultant and author.

There are so many unique challenges that come along with raising your grandchild, she said.

In the coming year, she is planning on introducing webinars on trauma-informed parenting for these guardians, as well as hopefully yoga and meditation classes.

Expanding mental-health help and being able to offer more much-needed financial support are two of the ways Barnes would like to see Grands Stepping Up grow. Last year, the nonprofit got its first grant about $20,000 from the Phillies and Barnes hopes to apply for more.

All in all, Grands Stepping Up has done pretty well for a group that got started from a Facebook call for help. As much as its come along, its roots are still in the family. Chelsea Barnes, one of Barnes daughters, is her vice president. Randi Kobielnik, her oldest offspring, is her chief operating officer. Ellianna, the granddaughter she adopted, is one of her volunteers.

So is Elliannas mother. In the years since she had the child when she was 17, the young woman, who did not wish to have her name used, said she has turned her life around.

Ive been clean for six years, Im active in my daughters life, and Ive rebuilt my relationship with my mother, my sisters, and my daughter, she said. A lot of my moms grandparents and volunteers know Im Elliannas mom, and that I was a drug addict and Im clean. It gives them a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel, like, Maybe this could be for my family, too.

Barnes says she was touched by the help she got along the way. It inspired her. It still does.

I appreciate everyone who has ever done anything for me and my granddaughter, but I recognized I had a vision that was greater and bigger. I knew we could help better. I knew we could do more. We could get more people involved to make more of a difference, said Barnes.

Its just the power of saying yes and not giving up.

For more information about Grands Stepping Up, visit https://grandssteppingupinfo.com/ or call 610-355-6362.

Link:
Grands Stepping Up supports grandparents who are raising their grandchildren alone - The Philadelphia Inquirer

Watch an indoor dining tent at Lucile's get sanitized

Single-party structures can be used for outdoor dining in Colorado as long as they're ventilated between parties. Here's what that process looks like.

Erin Udell, erinudell@coloradoan.com

Late in the spring of 2020, roughly a dozenbistro tablesand matching chairs popped up in front of Old Town's Armstrong Hotel. Soonthey werecordoned off byblack roping, sleek iron stanchions and a handful of planters bursting with colorful annuals.

With that, the historic hotel's firstpatio, Ace Cafe, was born. And if plans at the city come to fruition this fall, it andother expandedoutdoor patios acrossFort Collins may be here to stay.

Like dozens of other patios that popped up across Fort Collins at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in Colorado, Ace Cafe's existence has hinged on the city'stemporary expanded outdoor patio program, which launched in late spring2020 as a lifeline torestaurants and bars trying to stay afloat during the pandemic's early days.

Over ayear and a half later, COVID-19still remains inFort Collins and so do upwards of 25 expanded sidewalk and parking lot patios, according to an estimate from the city.

Despite Colorado Gov. Jared Polis ending the COVID-19 health emergency order Fort Collins' expanded patio program had been originally tied to last July, the city has since allowed restaurants to keep their approved patios on a temporary basis.

Now, given the uncertainty of thepandemicamid the highly-transmissible omicron variantthe city of Fort Collins islooking at establishing an ongoing, nonemergency-related extended outdoor dining program that may launch this fall, according to SeonAh Kendall, therecovery manager forFort Collins'Economic Health Office.

Speaking of the fate of outdoor patios: Linden Street restaurants face new challenge amid two-block renovation

News of this potentially ongoing program comes after the city conducted an outdoor dining survey last year. The survey's results, which were released in September, showed64% of its 37 responding businessessupported sidewalk patios being made permanent and 42% supported patios in parking areas being made permanent.

Kat Reeves, who owns Oak Street's tiny Bistro Nautile with her husband, Mike,said the restaurant's expanded outdoor patio has served them well. The proofis in its plywood platform, which is rotting and ready to be rebuilt after more than a year and a half in use.

Itspop-up tent, which is put up on less windy days, has seen its fair share of action as well,with melted scarsfrom the restaurant's outdoor heaters serving as reminders of thefrigid nights it saw the restaurantthrough.

"It was like eating in Armageddon. It was so cold, but people came anyway and they had a great time,"Reeves said, largely referring to the end of 2020, when Larimer County restaurants were once again closed for indoor dining.

"I believe that when we first opened in (June 2020), itreally made the difference between sinking or swimming," Reeves said of the patio, which was built in the three parking spaces directly in front of Bistro Nautile.

From the restaurant's opening in June 2020 through the end of last year, Reeves said Bistro Nautile's outdoor patio accounted for 20% of its revenue. For the tiny restaurant, which typically has a capacity of 49 people, it also added 22 seats it desperately needed.

Reeves said the restaurant is hoping to build on the patio's success by using a $6,800 grant it was just awarded by Larimer County to rebuild and redesign it getting rid of its rotting plywood and revamping its overall look.

Commending the city for providing such an option and balancing the needs of Fort Collins' restaurants, Reeves said she supports the city's expanded outdoor patio program becoming permanent.

"It was really meaningful to us as we struggled through the pandemic, and it's still a really nice option to have," she said.

Of the roughly 130 responses the city received from the larger public on its outdoor patio survey, a majoritywere in favor of a permanent change,with 55% of individuals supporting permanent parking lot patios and 61% supporting permanent sidewalk patios.

Retail business ownerswhoresponded to the survey were more opposed to parking lot patios, compared with restaurantand bar owners whotook part in the survey, according to the city. Eateries and bars along College Avenue were especially in favor of a more permanent program than businesses in other locations, the survey also showed.

After getting a good reception to its sidewalk patio along College Avenue,Armstrong Hotel Manager George Prine said the hotel decided to keep Ace Cafe even as Larimer County's capacity restrictions on restaurants loosened in 2020 and expired entirely last April.

"We wanted to enhance a sense of arrival to our property, and there's nothing greater than having 10 to 12 tables out there in a French-style cafe," Prine said. "Especially during COVID,we wanted to bring energy back into Fort Collins. It really said not only is the Armstrong Hotelopen, but Fort Collins is open."

The hotel launched its Ace Cafe menu, which offered weekend brunch, lighterfare anda new daytime option at the Armstrong Hotel. Theaddition allowed the hotel to bringsome of its part-time employees on full-time and has brought in an additional 30% to 35% of revenue, Prine said.

"Its such a welcoming feeling when (our guests)see the vitality of people walking outside throughOld Town andsee all these restaurants," Prine added."It sends such a great message. Hopefully (the patio program)keeps growing."

Across townat Maya Cove, Fort Collins' loneAlabama bar that dishes up smoked barbecue and full-strength margaritas,owner Steve Fowler said while he's no longer able to have an expanded patio at his West Drake Road shopping center location,he would supportthe city's program becoming permanent.

Fowler set up a temporary expanded patio in Maya Cove's parking lot around early June 2020, roughly a week after getting approval the new patio program, he said.

"It just made sense," Fowler said. "(The county) had set rules that you couldn't have more than 50% (capacity) inside, but by making those rules, they also gave you an alternative (with the expanded patios).I thought it was very fair."

"It didn't offset the (capacity) limits inside, but it made it a lot easier," he added. "It basically allowed me to move my dining room into the parking lot."

A whirlwind end to 2021: Flurry of Fort Collins restaurants and breweries open, 1 closes

After restaurants returned to 100% capacity last April, Fowler said his property's owner asked him to take down the temporary patio, which he did. But even with the patio now gone, Fowler said it mayhave been one of the reasons Maya Cove was able to weather the pandemic's early days.

"When people drove by, they could see we were still open. It was almost like, 'Hey, Maya Cove is trying to do what they can during this. Let's support them,' " Fowler said. "It was very instrumental in us getting through this."

Erin Udell reports on news, culture, history and more for the Coloradoan. Contact her at ErinUdell@coloradoan.com. The only way she can keep doing what she does is with your support. If you subscribe, thank you. If not, sign up for a digital subscription to the Coloradoan today.

Read the original:
After nearly 2 years of expanded outdoor patios, Fort Collins mulls making them permanent - Coloradoan

No need to limit outdoor seating to warm, sunny days with these guys

Weve got our fair share of toasty days here in Tucson, but when the temps drop and the sun goes left unseen, these heated patio options wont leave you on the waitlist for indoor seating.

Did you ever think youd find a menu that includes craft pizza, ahi fish tacos, and New York strip steak in a redesigned barn here in Tucson? Well, The Barnyard Craft House & Eatery has made it possible.

Designed to serve the needs of their neighbors, families, and guests, theyve achieved their goal of creating a space where elegance and quality meet fun and fare. And with heated patio seating options, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the surrounding Tanque Verde Valley year-round.

The Barnyard is open for business Tuesday Thursday from 3 p.m. 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. 10 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. 9 p.m.

For more information, visit barnyardaz.com.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Blue Willow Tucson (@bluewillowtucson)

Blue Willows food is known to leave you feeling warm and cozy inside. And with menus for breakfast and lunch offering house-made items with fresh ingredients, you cant go wrong.

The deal gets even sweeter with a heated patio that makes outside dining during Tucsons colder days a piece of cake. Be sure to stop in and explore their gift shop while youre there, too.

Blue Willow is open daily from 8 a.m. 3 p.m.

For more information, visit bluewillowtucson.com.

This Sam Hughes neighborhood spot is full of charm, from the walls covered in Chicago-based sports memorabilia to the regulars quick to offer a friendly howdy.

Order a pint or two and settle in with good company on their heated patio. Dont miss the boat on those house-made chips while youre there.

Bob Dobbs is open Monday Thursday from 11 a.m. 10 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. midnight, Saturday from 10 a.m. midnight, and Sunday from 10 a.m. 10 p.m.

For more information, visit bobdobbs-tucson.com.

El Charro Cafe has an abundance of seating options, all with great views of locally-based artwork and murals. That includes a front patio with heaters when the weather demands.

Stop in sometime this year to celebrate their 100-year anniversary, and if you happen to see Chef Carlotta, offer her a warm congrats for her recent nod by Forbes in their list of 50 women over 50 in 2021.

El Charro Cafe is open daily from 11 a.m. 8:30 p.m.

For more information, visit elcharrocafe.com.

Now offering heated seating at both front and back patios, Ermanos Craft Beer & Wine Bar is consistently upping its game.

With a menu showcasing diversity in flavor and preference dont overlook their vegetarian-friendly items and libations via Portal Cocktails to brighten your spirits, your options at Ermanos are vast.

Ermanos Craft Beer & Wine bar is open Sunday Thursday from 11 a.m. 10 p.m. as well as Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. midnight.

For more information, visit ermanosbrew.com.

A 100% outdoor restaurant and bar with live music, craft beer and cocktails, a rotating food menu, and bocce ball in the middle of a Tucson parking lot? Yep!

From the plants they curated to the lighting structures they crafted specifically for the space, the intention and care of owners Austin and Devin Santos, co-owners of neighboring Bear Canyon Pizza as well, have been worked into the foundation of this passion project.

Of course, that care includes an abundance of portable heaters for those times when temperatures drop. Pay them a visit Wednesday Friday from 3 p.m. 10 p.m., or Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. 10 p.m.

Learn more by visiting The Gardens at Bear Canyons Facebook page.

Tucked away in the historic Presidio District of Downtown Tucson, LaCo is all about love and community, which youll recognize immediately upon entering their beautiful outdoor space.

The patio is dog-friendly, youll find live music being played most nights, and the heaters will help set the stage for a night out with loved ones. Out front on the Tallboys patio, on the corner of Telles St. and Court Ave., theres more seating if youre ordering off of that specific menu.

LaCo and Tallboys serve the community Tuesday Thursday from 9 a.m. 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. 10 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. 3 p.m.

For more information, visit lacotucson.com.

Locale unites their deep Italian roots with their love for quality by introducing a menu that combines old Italian classics with amazing local ingredients.

From the Seven-Layer Lasagna to their Pizza aTaglio made with local flour and freshly baked brioche, everything they do is fresh and homemade. Thanks to the addition of heaters, it can all be enjoyed from their beautiful courtyard, which was as carefully crafted as the items they dish up.

Locale Neighborhood Italian is open Tuesday Sunday from 11:30 a.m. 9 p.m.

For more information, visit localetucson.com.

It may not get more authentic than Opas Grill when it comes to Greek food being served up here in Tucson. The family-owned and operated spot is dedicated to providing consistently delicious food and family-friendly service, and they dont disappoint.

Their patio is tucked away just off of Fourth Avenue, with heaters ready to go for colder days and nights. They even have designated free parking just east of the building.

Check them out Sunday Thursday from 11 a.m. 9 p.m. or Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. 10 p.m.

For more information, visit opasgrill.com.

Postino WineCafe hasnt slowed down since they first arrived to the Tucson scene back in March of 2020. With an abundance of natural light and the feeling of being outdoors even when nestled inside, its hard to not feel youre in a trendy bar near a beach in San Diego.

Just as it gets colder in San Diego than most would think, so it does here in Tucson. Lucky us, theyve kept that in mind and equipped their patio with incognito overhead heaters fit for these cool Tucson evenings. Or, given your timing, you may even be able to snag a spot to cozy up near the fireplace. Check em out sometime, and dont sleep on their Happy Hour deals.

Postino WineCafe is open Monday Thursday from 11 a.m. 11 p.m. and Friday from 11 a.m. midnight. They also have brunch hours on the weekend, open Saturday from 9 a.m. midnight and Sunday from 9 a.m. 10 p.m.

For more information, visit postinowinecafe.com.

Smokey Mo brings a passion for Kansas City-style barbecue to the Sonoran Desert with smoked often for hours upon hours meats and their secret sauce recipe.

Pitmaster and partner, Ocie Davis, has been barbecuing since he was 16, and that experience and craft can be sensed with each bite. Experience it for yourself from their heated patio right off of N. First Ave.

Smokey Mo is open daily from 11 a.m. 8 p.m.

For more information, visit smokeymo.com.

Substance Diner made the move to set up shop at MotoSonora Brewery in 2020, and its been a match made in both food and beer lover heaven ever since.

Going by Moto for a beer, a night of trivia, or live music on the patio? Substance has your dinner option covered! Sure, a majority of seating is nestled outdoors, but colder temps dont need to be the rain on your parade thanks to heaters set up all throughout. They even have a community-beckoning fireplace centrally staged to gather around.

Plan your timing ahead if youre going for the package deal as hours differ.

MotoSonora Brewing is slinging tasty brews Monday Thursday from 3 p.m. 10 p.m., Friday Saturday from 11 a.m. 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. 8 p.m. while Substance Diner feeds the Tucson masses Monday Thursday from 5 p.m. 9 p.m., Friday Saturday from 11 a.m. 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. 8 p.m.

For more information, visit motosonora.com or substancediner.com.

Surly Wench is a total one-of-a-kind bar and venue with events such as burlesque and themed karaoke and dance parties.

Grab your pals and stop in for a game of pool, to throw a few songs on their old school jukebox, or to sit out back on their heated patio. Its always a good time.

Surly Wench is open Wednesday Friday from 4 p.m. 2 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. 2 a.m. with kitchen hours Wednesday Friday from 5 p.m. 1 a.m. and Saturday Sunday from 4 p.m. 1 a.m.

For more information, visit surlywenchpub.com.

For many, when considering breakfast-inclusive dining in Tucson, the mind doesnt tend toward the northwest side of town in search of innovative options. Thanks to Teaspoon, our horizons have the ability to expand.

Embracing their theme of being a creative, modern eatery, they offer innovative twists on classic flavors and dishes. And with the heated patio adding warmth on Tucsons cooler days plus a clear view of the fountain that sits front and center of the plaza where the restaurant is housed, Teaspoon is an experience all its own.

Join them as they serve up reinvented breakfast and lunch classics Monday Saturday from 8 a.m. 3 p.m. and Sunday from 7 a.m. 3 p.m.

For more information, visit teaspoontucson.com.

Vero Amore broke ground in the Tucson pizza scene in 2006 and never looked back. With accolades as Authentic Neapolitan Pizzeria #250 worldwide and #28 in the United States, their authenticity is undeniable.

Catch their Happy Hour daily from 2 p.m. 6 p.m. With $1 off all appetizers, $2 off wines by the glass, $1 off all beer, $4 well drinks, and $6 sangria, you cant go wrong.

For more information, visit veroamorepizza.com.

Read more:
15 Heated patios for those cooler days in Tucson - Tucson Foodie

Public health restrictions have closed most Ontario movie theatres this month, but you can still grab popcorn and sit in front of a big screen in Gananoque, Ont., at the 1000 Islands Drive-In.

Paul Peterson, who co-owns the movie theatre with his son Jamie Peterson, says people have been driving in from Ottawa, Montreal and Guelph, Ont., to catch a flick.

Peterson said their theatre is only doing one showing starting at 5:15 p.m., and people have been showing up as early as an hour and a half in advance.

It's different from the double-header setup he's used to, but that's not the only difference.

Most people don't think January when they think drive-in, but Peterson told CBC's All In A Day that no one has complained to him about being cold in their cars.

"If at first you succeed, try not to act surprised and take all the credit," Peterson said. "I think they bring a lot of blankets and we see an awful lot of people in their pajamas."

All in a Day10:24Drive-in movie theatre stays open for winter

In a town where tourism is crucial, businesses have struggled throughout the pandemic, but for Amanda Trafford, the business development coordinator for the town of Gananoque, it's also been a chance for the local community to come together.

"A lot of what I talk about is really like businesses supporting businesses, and I really did see that. I continue to see that a lot in the community," Trafford said.

One instance of this she saw was restaurants sharing outdoor space. Pistachio Caf has been sharing its patio with neighbouring restaurant Mavericks all summer, Trafford said. This continued into a holiday collaboration with the town to offer free hot chocolate and movies for kids.

The Thousand Islands Playhouse is also stretching its summer season with livestreams available at a pay-what-you-can price. Because COVID-19 restrictions kept audiences small, Trafford said many of its summer shows sold out.

It's also used the time it saved from another COVID-19-affected season to keep up a coat drive for Gananoque residents.

"They started it last year because they really had a lot of time on their hands," Trafford said. "Our local Salvation Army has not reopened since COVID hit, so that's taken a toll on the community and they saw that need and they're fulfilling it."

The theatre originally closed for the season on Oct. 31, when Ontario enacted public health restrictions that banned concession sales.

Peterson says his business doesn't make money off movie tickets, so concession sales are important.

"My son and I decided 'let's try reopening the drive-in,' and that's not the wildest thing I'd ever done, it was just the wildest thing that day," Peterson said.

Cinemas were later completely closed down by public health restrictions, though they can reopen at 50 per cent capacity, starting Jan. 31.

This was the theatre's first outdoor season, but drive-ins are not a new business for Peterson, who ran one in Picton, Ont., for 32 years, and he sees the appeal of going during the pandemic.

"It's very private. You get to see the movie without a whole lot of people around you, those kinds of interruptions and people are concerned about COVID without a doubt. This feels very safe to them."

Read more from the original source:
Patios and drive-in movies carry Gananoque through another pandemic winter - CBC.ca

This Oak Cliff home was built in 2018 and has three levels of living space, plus a rooftop patio that provides a view of the treetops. The home sits on a 0.185-acre lot just a few minutes from the Bishop Arts District.

The home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. offers clean lines, a contemporary feel and an extra-private primary suite.

Listing agent Jeremy Whiteker of Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate noted that this is the personal home of builder Adrian Cole of 419 Builders and his family. The company has constructed other homes in the Oak Cliff area, Whiteker said.

I think it really stands out for quality construction and durable materials, Whiteker said of the homes design.

The home has four bedrooms, four bathrooms and one half-bathroom in its 3,048 square feet.

The property is gated in the front and back yards, with landscaping throughout and patio space in the front and back. On the first level of the home, youll find an open-concept living room, dining room and kitchen. The space has ample windows that let in natural light and lighter-toned wood floors throughout. The kitchen is outfitted with a large refrigerator, double ovens and an induction stovetop. A waterfall-edge island offers more counter space and additional seating in the kitchen.

1/11Take a look at the home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. in Dallas.(Costa Christ Media)

2/11Take a look at the home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. in Dallas.(Costa Christ Media)

3/11Take a look at the home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. in Dallas.(Costa Christ Media)

4/11Take a look at the home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. in Dallas.(Costa Christ Media)

5/11Take a look at the home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. in Dallas.(Costa Christ Media)

6/11Take a look at the home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. in Dallas.(Costa Christ Media)

7/11Take a look at the home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. in Dallas.(Costa Christ Media)

8/11Take a look at the home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. in Dallas.(Costa Christ Media)

9/11Take a look at the home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. in Dallas.(Costa Christ Media)

10/11Take a look at the home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. in Dallas.(Costa Christ Media)

11/11Take a look at the home at 1201 Woodlawn Ave. in Dallas.(Costa Christ Media)

A staircase sits in the middle between the living room and dining room and leads to the second floor. On this level, the home has three bedrooms with en suite bathrooms plus a home office, a laundry room and a living room / game room. One of the second-level bedroom suites could act as an additional primary suite, according to the listing, because of its large bedroom, bathroom and closet.

The primary suite is set on its own level. Upstairs on the third floor, the primary bedroom is full of natural light and has a walk-in closet, a generous bathroom with dual vanities, a freestanding bathtub and a walk-in shower.

The rooftop patio is accessible through the primary suite and one other access point, Whiteker said.

The home is on the market for $1,150,000.

This is part of our Posh Properties series, providing a glimpse inside nice homes in North Texas for those who love to look at houses. It is not paid for or presented by area real estate agents or companies.

Looking for more Posh Properties stories? Follow Mary Grace Granados on Instagram, go to our luxury real estate page or subscribe to our free weekly newsletter.

Excerpt from:
This three-story home in Oak Cliff has a rooftop patio - The Dallas Morning News

Well, its official. Winter is here for the next eighty-some-odd days. And if you are lucky enough to have a backyard, deck, or patio space in your home, you have a big decision to make. You can either allow the cold weather to prevent you from enjoying this space. Or you can use a fire pit to transform your backyard, deck, or patio into an outdoor oasis that you, your family, and your friends can enjoy 12 months a year.

Creating a year-round outdoor oasis sounds pretty great. And if youre not quite sure where to start, the folks at Outer can help.

Outer is an outdoor furnishings company founded on the idea that backyards, decks, and patios should not be an afterthought. With most of us spending 90 percent of our days indoors, Outers mission is to help customers rediscover the simple luxuries that outdoor spaces have to offer. And if youre looking for a way to make your outdoor space an inviting place to relax and gather during cold weather months, you need to take a look at Outers gorgeous and versatile fire pit tables.

Whether you just want to stay warm and cozy while reading a book, or you want a safe way to entertain friends and family in the dead of winter, these Outer fire pit tables could very well change your life. And the best part? Outer offers 0% APR financing for 24 months to those who qualify. So turning your backyard, deck, or patio into a luxurious winter retreat doesnt have to break the bank.

Ready to start fantasizing about your chic winter get-togethers? Then you should keep scrolling.

Stay warm and cozy this winter with this stunning multifunctional backyard fire pit. With a sleek minimalist design that will suit any aesthetic and a body made of solid concrete, this piece will become the hub of your backyard hangouts and family gatherings for years to come. The ceramic stone spheres are specifically designed to add visual interest while also directing heat outward and serving as a wind guard that maximizes fuel efficiency. CSA-approved for safe fuel burning, this propane fire pit ignites gently and smoothly with the turn of a nob.

Click here to learn more or order.

Looking to do more than keep warm with your Outer Fire Pit Table? Then the Fire Pit Table Complete Set is for you. In addition to the beautiful table and ceramic balls, you also get a built-in but easily removable grill and griddle cooktop, plus a stylish propane tank cover. With this setup, hosts will never be stuck in the kitchen or tied to the grill again. Instead, they and their guests can cook, socialize, and eat around the fire pit together.

Click here to learn more or order.

Original post:
These Gorgeous Fire Pit Tables Will Transform Your Outdoor Space Into A Winter Oasis | The Weather Channel - Articles from The Weather Channel |...