Friday, March 13, 2015 | 12:20 p.m. CDT

BY The Associated Press

ST. LOUIS The $380 million effort to remake the Gateway Arch grounds and the area around the Arch is taking another step forward with demolition of the parking garage.

Demolition work that began last week is expected to take about three months. The 1,200-spot parking garage will make way for grass, pathways and gardens on the north part of the Arch grounds.

CityArchRiver, the foundation leading the renovation project, said there are plenty of other parking spots in the downtown area for Arch visitors. But business owners on Laclede's Landing, an area of shops, restaurants and bars near the Arch, said the garage was important for their customers.

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Demolition begins on Gateway Arch parking garage

By T.L. Stanley2015-03-13 09:37:02 UTC

Are you suffering from garage fever, biker dudes? Itching to hit the open road on a throaty American-made motorcycle, hug the curves, catch some scenery, feel the horsepower?

Subzero temperatures and record snowfall have made that impossible in most of the country this endless winter. Whats a gearhead to do, except wait for the thaw?

Thats where virtual reality steps in, with executives from Minnesota-based Victory Motorcycles hatching a promotion that uses Oculus Rift to give motorcycle enthusiasts a trip to Sturgis without leaving a trade show floor.

The simulated ride through the Badlands comes complete with 3D, 360-degree images of Needles Highway, a famous stretch of desert road in South Dakota, throttle control, sound effects and a tactile transducer to recreate the vibrations of a speeding bike.

The project, produced by digital agency space150, means to put butts on seats at high-traffic trade shows, which executives say is one of the best ways to move product. It rolled out at the recent Chicago International Motorcycle Show and will repeat, with additions and tweaks, at future events. It may also become part of a museum exhibit in New York.

If you sit for a ride, youre more likely to own one of our motorcycles, according to internal studies, said Lisa Grimm, director of public relations and emerging media at space150. So we wanted to use technology to create something immersive and solve a business challenge.

Victory Motorcycles joins a handful of companies using the Facebook-owned Oculus Rift and its VR competitors as a marketing tactic. HBO may have been the first to do so, with its Ascend the Wall experience for Game of Thrones at last years SXSW that reviewers called mind blowing.

More recently, Toyota created a simulation to warn teens about the dangers of distracted driving, and Mountain Dew showed what it would be like to glide along next to a pro skateboarder. Marriott took consumers to Maui and central London via its #GetTeleported Oculus Rift promotion, and Elle magazine has captured behind-the-scenes fashion shoots in recent months for virtual reality streaming.

The trend will likely continue and intensify, Grimm said, with some brands doing a better job than others in using the sexy, emerging technology.

More here:
Oculus lets motorcycle enthusiasts take a virtual trip to Sturgis

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) -

Three bills moving through City Council could reshape the way accessory dwelling units or ADU's - are built, and inhabited, in Honolulu.

Two of the bills deal with zoning, and making ADU's more achievable for homeowners and renters alike. The third bill cracks down on illegal vacation rentals.

"Cottages, garage additions, additions on your family rooms, that type stuff" said City TOD Administrator Harrison Rue.

It's a way for homeowners help ease the affordable housing crunch - building accessory dwelling units on their properties for long term rentals. Bills 20 and 21 aim to accomplish that by altering current zoning regulations to encourage construction.

"We're making it a little simpler so you only need to require one parking space for a basic ADU, and if you're within one half mile within a rail station, no parking required" said Rue.

Bill 20 is Mayor Kirk Caldwell's. 21 was introduced by Councilman Ron Menor.

There are differences between the two. Rue says either bill will be a benefit to consumers, though he leans towards the mayor's.

"It has a potential for really solving the rental housing problem for a lot of people, providing affordable housing, providing extra income for homeowners and I think for small builders opens up a market opportunity as well".

Bill 22 cracks down on illegal vacation rentals. Pre-existing units would be allowed to continue to operate - provided they obtain proper certification and meet certain criteria.

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HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) -

Three bills moving through City Council could reshape the way accessory dwelling units or ADU's - are built, and inhabited, in Honolulu.

Two of the bills deal with zoning, and making ADU's more achievable for homeowners and renters alike. The third bill cracks down on illegal vacation rentals.

"Cottages, garage additions, additions on your family rooms, that type stuff" said City TOD Administrator Harrison Rue.

It's a way for homeowners help ease the affordable housing crunch - building accessory dwelling units on their properties for long term rentals. Bills 20 and 21 aim to accomplish that by altering current zoning regulations to encourage construction.

"We're making it a little simpler so you only need to require one parking space for a basic ADU, and if you're within one half mile within a rail station, no parking required" said Rue.

Bill 20 is Mayor Kirk Caldwell's. 21 was introduced by Councilman Ron Menor.

There are differences between the two. Rue says either bill will be a benefit to consumers, though he leans towards the mayor's.

"It has a potential for really solving the rental housing problem for a lot of people, providing affordable housing, providing extra income for homeowners and I think for small builders opens up a market opportunity as well".

Bill 22 cracks down on illegal vacation rentals. Pre-existing units would be allowed to continue to operate - provided they obtain proper certification and meet certain criteria.

View post:
Bills address accessory dwelling units

11 March 2015 | Art & Photography | By: Londonist Staff

The old footy stadiums of Wembley and Highbury may be gone but theyre far from forgotten as these nostalgic prints prove. They are the latest additions to the Lost Destinationseries of pictures from design studio and firm Londonist favourite, Dorothy (we previously featured their beautifully brutalconcrete huggers).

There are four dear departed sporting venues in all (the two in London plus Maine Road and Roker Park) taking their place alongside other lost gems, including the Euston Arch and Stockwell Bus Garage. For the record: Wembley was demolished in 2003, while Arsenals Highbury was yuppified in 2006 into new flats although the Grade II listed parts were retained as part of the development.

All fourillustrated prints are availablein two sizesfrom Dorothys website, as are the previous designs in herLost Destinationseries of prints.

Tags: dorothy, Highbury, Lost Destination, prints, Wembley

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Artful Prints Conjure Up Lost Football Stadiums

Paso Robles, Calif. (PRWEB) March 11, 2015

Already home to an abundance of exciting attractions and innovative businesses, Paso Robles (Paso) continues to expand its offerings for visitors and locals. Whether a long-time resident or planning a rejuvenating weekend getaway, the city truly has something for everyone. Featured below are some of the newest additions and changes to the hospitable community of Paso Robles.

Meet Mistura, Paso Robles New Peruvian Restaurant In a celebration of Perus cuisine and multicultural spirit, Nicola Allegretta opened Mistura a modern Peruvian restaurant in November 2014. Aptly named mixture in Portuguese, Mistura offers the perfect fusion of Native Pre-Columbian and Incan heritage with Chinese, Italian, Japanese and Spanish influences. In homage to traditional Peruvian cuisine, Chef Nicola incorporates Andean Native ingredients into his dishes along with locally-sourced free range meats, sustainable seafood and fresh organic produce. Adventurous guests can try popular items, including Alpaca Carpaccio and Grilled Octopus, along with a variety of other unique and flavorful offerings. Whether seated at a table in the restaurants open dining area or enjoying Misturas cuisine at one of its beautiful event venues, this is an exciting new culinary destination for food lovers. For more information about the multi-cultural and culinary delights of Mistura, visit MisturaRestaurants.com.

The Spa Central Coast and Organic Farms Juice Move in Together The Spa Central Coast and Organic Farms Juice now share the same new Paso Robles location along with preexisting and passionate ideas regarding health, detoxification and rejuvenation. The spa currently features eight treatment rooms with plans for adding a cleansing Himalayan salt room and the organic juice bar enhances guests experience with a wide variety of free-pressed, certified organic juices. The two business owners Kitty Arosteguy and Dr. Aracely Plateroti have worked in their respective fields for many years and started this collaboration to help cleanse guests bodies and prevent disease. For more information about the two companies and their new shared location, visit The Spa Central Coast and the Facebook page for Organic Farms Juice.

Pelletiere Estate Vineyard & Winery Now Open in Paso Located in the heart of the Willow Creek district, the new Pelletiere Estate Vineyard & Winery opened January 2015. While the property underwent several renovations following the change in ownership, the winery itself will continue to produce Italian varietals in honor of the current owners and predecessors Italian heritage. Family-owned and operated, the vineyard is committed to gentle winemaking techniques and sustainable farming. The Farmhouse one of the renovated buildings is a chic country getaway, complete with French doors opening onto a private multi-level deck overlooking the vineyards. Whether searching for a great winetasting destination or the perfect location for a weekend getaway in Paso Robles, Pelletiere Estate Vineyard & Winery offers both. The new vineyard and winery also features the Pelletiere Wine Club, whose members receive exclusive benefits and regular shipments of handcrafted, limited-production wines. For more information about Pelletiere Estate Vineyard & Winery, visit Pelletiere.com.

First-Ever Eroica Vintage Cycling Event in the United States Eroica, Tuscanys renowned vintage bike ride, will come to the United States for the first time ever, April 11-12, 2015. An event for cycling enthusiasts and bike collectors, Eroica California will feature three routes starting and ending in Paso Robles. Registration for the event is limited to 1,000 participants, who must use bicycles built prior to 1988. In addition to the ride on April 12, the event includes a two-day festival complete with live music and delicious food. Attendees will also have the unique opportunity to enjoy the World Class Vintage Bicycle Concourse dElegance, showcasing the best vintage road racing bicycles owned by collectors. Started in Italy with the intention of reconnecting people with the heritage of cycling, this memorable experience will occur in six countries this year alone. Hospice of San Luis Obispo, a local charity, will volunteer at the event and receive part of the events proceeds. For more information about Eroica California in Paso Robles and to register for the event, visit EroicaCalifornia.com.

Exciting New Additions to Hearst Ranch Winemaking Team Jim Saunders and Steve Hearst owners of Hearst Ranch Winery and close friends welcomed winemakers Soren Christensen and Guillaume Fabre to the team in February. The winery, founded and run with a Legacy of Quality in mind, produces handcrafted wine from local vineyards in Paso Robles and San Simeon. With nearly 15 years of experience, Christensens role will involve creating high quality wines worthy of the Hearst name and award-winning label. Fabre, born into a winemaking family in France, has spent the last 10 years of his life working in Paso Robles wine industry. As evident by the acclaim surrounding Fabres own brand of wine Clos Solne both he and Christensen are valuable additions to the Hearst Ranch winemaking team. For more information about Hearst Ranch Winery, visit HearstRanchWinery.com.

Next Door Bistro Opens in Paso Robles Paso Robles, home to a vast and varied culinary scene, welcomed Next Door Bistro September 2014. With everything made from scratch excluding the bread and cheese the menu features inventive, comforting meals. Chef Ed Drake is committed to serving fresh ingredients from local farmers markets and offering dishes that accommodate every guests dietary needs. Guests can either eat indoors surrounded by the bistros refreshingly simple dcor, or on the outdoor patio while enjoying the Paso Robles sunshine. Sharing a space with Di Raimondos Italian Market & Cheese Shop at 822 13th Street, the restaurant is a rustic, old-world style eatery open every Thursday through Monday. For more information about one of Paso Robles newest small but sensational culinary destinations, visit Next Door Bistros Facebook page.

Spearhead Coffee Opens in Paso Robles Spearhead Coffee a specialty wholesale and resale business - officially opened in Paso Robles January 2015. Owned by three friends - Joseph Gerardis, Matt Klomp and Jeremy Sizemore Spearhead Coffee works to create drinks with the highest quality products. With this in mind, the company imports its green coffee beans from communities and countries overseas. The store, with its artistic lighting and glass storefront, has a welcoming, creative atmosphere. Customers can either take their drinks to go or sit at one of the various tables or hand-made window bars. For more information, visit SpearheadCoffee.com.

New Tasting Room in Downtown Paso by Lusso Della Terra Cellars Paso Robles, known for its expansive vineyards and delicious wines, will welcome Lusso Della Terra Cellars new tasting room March 2015. Lussa Della Terra meaning Luxury of the Land is owned by winemaker Ed Cholakian. While relatively new to Paso Robles, Cholakian is a long-time wine lover who began creating wine in his house and garage seven years ago. After relocating to Paso Robles, he quickly fell in love with the area and knew it was the perfect destination to open a tasting room. While Cholakian also produces Sangiovese and Zinfandel wines, the tasting room will specifically feature Lusso Della Terra Pinot Noir and Chardonnay made with grapes from Paso Robles, Napa and Sonoma. For more information about Lussa Della Terra Cellars and the flourishing Paso Robles winery scene, visit LDTCellars.com.

Read more from the original source:
Paso Robles Celebrates New Business and Events

Some of Collaroy's finest houses date from when the suburb's post office was established in 1923. In those days, Collaroy was often used as a holiday destination away from the city. As a result, the earlier houses, often second homes, were built in weatherboard, a more affordable option than brick. They featured stone fireplaces, timber floors and wraparound sandstone verandahs used as sleep-outs.

A drive around the suburb now uncovers some of these golden oldies and also hails the return of the timber beach house. New homes are being built in weatherboard and feature indoor-outdoor living and lush subtropical gardens. It's a welcome trend.

Collaroy has examples of architecture from across the past century including a few art deco-style homes which are mirrored in Collaroy's landmark cinema. Another architectural marker is the 1967 beachfront Flight Deck apartment block.

Source: Domain Group.

Apartments make up almost a third of the suburb's housing with blocks concentrated along Pittwater Road and its offshoots. Last year, 141 units sold in Collaroy. They are not only entry points to the market (the lowest price for a unit last year was $340,000) but also an option for downsizers leaving behind big family homes.

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Most Collaroy buyers are locals but of late, agents are fielding interest from expats who have been waiting for the dollar to hit favourable conditions. So far this year, buyers have been acting swiftly to secure property in Collaroy.

What locals love

The choice of swimming spots between tranquil Fishermans beach, the aquatic reserve, the surf at Collaroy beach and the rock pool offers something for everyone. Locals love the walk up Long Reef Point by the golf course and the off-leash dog park. The tennis courts are popular as is the upgraded Collaroy Beach Park playground. There is also the cinema, just enough cafes and The Collaroy Hotel on Pittwater Road.

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Neighbourhoods: Collaroy undergoing a beach-house revival

VIEW GALLERY

This stunning four-bedroom home in Ormesbys Dew Lane is packed with design features and luxurious touches just perfect for contemporary family living.

At its heart is a dining kitchen and family room that overlooks the garden and there are four bedrooms, all with en suites.

Eco friendly additions include underfloor heating, solar power, a wood burning stove and rainwater storage - and theres a spacious garden which boasts its own arctic cabin that has seating around a central barbecue pit. The home also has a town meets country location close to Ormesby Hall.

Compton House is the market for offers over 695,000. Contact Thirlwells estate agents, Middlesbrough for more information on 01642 245796.

Location: Dew Lane, Ormesby

Bedrooms: Four, all with en suites

Reception rooms: Two

Bathrooms: Four

Gardens and outside space: The home has a secluded rear garden with an arctic cabin, a lawned area and established trees, a vegetable patch and terraced areas

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Dream Home: 695,000 Ormesby home boasts own arctic cabin and eco friendly features

Cicero As the list of needed repairs at the towns facilities grows, the Cicero Town Board approved $1,275 in emergency snow and ice removal from the roof of the highway department at its Feb. 11 meeting.

This is a chronic problem that we had to take care of, explained Supervisor Jessica Zambrano.

At the Jan. 28 board meeting, the board heard the Buildings Advisory Committees safety concerns regarding the highway garage. Snow and ice have been building up on the garages eaves and falling off, causing a hazard to town employees and the public alike.

Committee member Don Snyder presented the board with a laundry list of other problems the committee has identified at the towns facilities, including roof leaks, poor and molding insulation, inadequate GFIs (ground fault interrupters, which protect against electric shock) and insufficient office space and vehicle parking, to name a few.

If we [addressed] all those things, we would still end up with a building that doesnt meet our needs, Snyder said.

The Buildings Advisory Committee also examined the police station, which Snyder said is a maze because of the many additions that have been tacked on over the years. Snyder said water was leaking in an investigators office, which Town Clerk Tracy Cosilmon had taken it upon herself to fix in order to avoid spending money on repairs.

Snyder said the committee will do a space review to determine what kind of building the police department would require in order to function more efficiently. He said the police building, which is an offshoot of the highway garage, has the same issues with snow and ice removal.

Its a residential building that were using as a commercial building. There really isnt any security there, he said.

Snyder said the parks and highway departments share a portion of a building for storage, repairs and employee breaks. He said the building lacks proper insulation and heating.

Excerpt from:
Ciceros building woes

LAKE BUENA VISTA --

Downtown Disney is rockin' a new "glow."

The fresh vibe is already apparent as the entertainment district transitions into Disney Springs - expanding from 75 to more than 150 shopping, dining and entertainment venues.

The complete transformation won't be done until next summer, but guests are already trying out the new amenities.

We got to chat with the vice president of Downtown Disney, Keith Bradford, in the new Exposition Park:

ALLISON WALKER: Everyone's dying to know about present and future milestones.

KEITH BRADFORD: We're actually standing in Exposition Park, one of our newest additions to Downtown Disney. It's all about food trucks in this park... Four food trucks, each themed after one of our theme parks. [Namaste Caf with flavors from Disneys Animal Kingdom (think butter chicken and Tandoori spiced shrimp); Superstar Catering with favorites from Disneys Hollywood Studios like a Margarita Flatbread; Fantasy Fare with Magic Kingdom Park goodies like the corn dog, and World Showcase of Flavors with Epcot tastes from grass-fed beef sliders to Pierogies]. We're actually on our 3rd revision of the menu. So it's constantly changing and responding to what guests are asking for. In addition to that, we have nightly entertainment in the park. Guests are loving it.

AW: What about the restaurants? Where can we eat next?

KB: The first one of those is the Boathouse... That'll be opening up in the April time frame. [We're] very, very excited about this restaurant... That restaurant is all about boats and our love for the water, right? So it's seafoods, steaks, chops, raw oyster bar. Later this year, a couple more restaurants will be coming online. STK - which is a fascinating steakhouse. What I really like about [it] is that it's going to have a rooftop bar overlooking the springs. So it's a first one of those. In addition to that is [our first Pan-Asian restaurant] Morimoto Asia. It's been a thrill to work with Morimoto as he designs and looks at the menu offerings. I think our guests are really going to enjoy that. All of that is going to be in the heart of Downtown Disney.

AW: I see that huge, 4,000 space parking garage on the west side. Is that open?

The rest is here:
Inside Downtown Disney's transformation to Disney Springs