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    Over $1.4 million in grants announced for coastal communities – Wisconsin Examiner - July 8, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Gov. Tony Evers has announced over $1.4 million in grants for Wisconsins coastal communities. The grants, funded through the Wisconsin Coastal Management Program, will support efforts to build sustainable, climate-resilient coastal communities. The grants will be used by local, state and tribal governments as well as planning commissions, universities and nonprofit organizations.

    All in all, the grants will help support 41 projects which total over $3.4 million. The Great Lakes are critical gateways to our state and provide fresh water, jobs, recreation, and an improved quality of life for folks across our state, especially those who call our coastal communities home, said Evers. From the Apostle Islands to Zoo Beach in Racine, these investments will help ensure we protect our vast and valuable freshwater resources by enhancing sustainability and resilience, and supporting local economies, jobs, and recreational and educational opportunities on our freshwater coasts.

    Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) Secretary-designee Kathy Blumenfeld praised the grants. The grants announced today will make a difference across the 800 miles of Wisconsin coastal communities through enhancing public access, sustainable use practices, education, development, and habit restoration, while addressing pollution and other concerns.

    Recipients for the 2022-23 grants were recommended by the Wisconsin Coastal Management Council. Among the 41 projects will be efforts in habitat restoration at the Lincoln Park Zoo in Manitowoc, flood exposure vulnerability mapping for northern Ashland, public access in Hika Bay, and preservation for the Port Washington historic lighthouse. The next round of request proposals will be available in August, with an application deadline of early November 2022.

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    Excerpt from:
    Over $1.4 million in grants announced for coastal communities - Wisconsin Examiner

    Havenwoods State Forest in Milwaukee is the result of ‘healing’ after a military past – WUWM - July 8, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    In early July, a group of about 20 first and second graders from Milwaukee's Atonement Lutheran School took a walk through a forest.

    "Today, since we're talking about animals, we'll be looking at animal homes, animal tracks," their guide, Alex Olson told them. "Youll probably see some squirrels and birds out there."

    The students got most excited when they spotted a big spider, squealing and commenting on how it's camouflaged to its surroundings.

    The school group was hiking in a 237-acre nature preserve, and they only had to travel a couple miles to find it.

    Havenwoods State Forest, at Silver Spring Drive and Sherman Boulevard in Milwaukee, is the only urban state forest in Wisconsin. Its an oasis of trees, prairie and wetland that is home to deer, turkeys, hawks, coyotes, snakes, turtles and frogs.

    A Bubbler Talk listener sent us a question asking why Havenwoods was created.

    Bubbler Talk: What have you always wanted to know about the Milwaukee area that you'd like WUWM to explore?

    With the help of the Milwaukee Public Library's Daniel Lee, we dug into the archives to look at Havenwoods' past. The history of the forest is one of punishment and war.

    In the 1800s, much of what is now Havenwoods was farmland owned by the Zautcke family, who were German immigrants. Milwaukee County bought the Zautcke land and some other parcels in the early 1900s, and built a House of Correction there.

    At the time, the area around Havenwoods was rural Granville township it hadn't yet been annexed by Milwaukee.

    Milwaukee Public Library

    /

    The Army seized the House of Correction property in 1945 to use as disciplinary barracks. It held military prisoners, and briefly prisoners of war. The last prisoners left the barracks in 1950.

    Between 1956-63, during the Cold War, it was one of eight Nike anti-aircraft missile sites in the Milwaukee area.

    Milwaukee County Historical Society

    /

    By the time Gaylord Yost moved to the Havenwoods neighborhood in 1975, the disciplinary barracks were empty and the property had fallen into disrepair.

    "It was really a sort of a lost part of the city is what it was," says Yost, now an 89-year-old retired forester. "It was just a roughly abandoned property. There was an old farm building down on the southeast corner of it. Mostly it was grassed over, trees, brush."

    As the city tried to figure out what to do with the old disciplinary barracks site, Milwaukee Alderman Ted Stude held a renaming contest in 1974. Custer High School student Lisbeth Sealy's entry of "Havenwoods" won.

    In the 1970s, a group of residents calling themselves "Friends of Havenwoods" rallied to turn the blighted city property into a nature preserve. Yost joined the group, which was led by environmentalist Cari Backes.

    "Cari Backes wanted it as a gem in the northwest corner an environmental inspiration to the area of what can happen to a well-used abandoned property," Yost says.

    There were others who wanted housing or factories on the site. The Milwaukee Tenants Union occupied the vacant barracks between 1969-71 to house evicted families.

    Milwaukee Public Library Historic Photo Collection

    /

    But the environmentalists got the attention of politicians, including Wisconsin Gov. Martin Schreiber. He offered for the Department of Natural Resources to take over the property from the city.

    The transfer happened in 1978, and since then, DNR has been working to restore the forest.

    "Its a healing process," says Milwaukee State Parks Superintendent Angela Vickio. "This is now decades worth of restoration, revegetation projects."

    Vickio says people use the six miles of trails here for hiking, dog walking and birdwatching. Last year, it had over 100,000 visitors.

    Havenwoods has an education mission. Families are invited to animal feedings at its nature center, which houses turtles and snakes. School groups frequently visit for field trips.

    "We are doing something positive where this didnt necessarily have a highly positive past," Vickio says. "There were a lot of things that were controversial in it. And you know, I think its to our benefit to ensure this continues to be a positive place for people to come."

    The forest sits in a predominately Black community, and Vickio says there is work to be done to better engage those neighbors.

    One group already doing that work is Nearby Nature, led by Steven Hunter. He brings schoolchildren to Havenwoods as part of a nature education class.

    "Bringing kids out here its a perfect place," Hunter says. "Were Nearby Nature. We hear from our white counterparts, 'Oh we went to Door County, we went to these places.' And Im like, OK, those are access conversations. But Havenwoods provides that same level of access right here in the city."

    DNR Secretary Preston Cole is putting more emphasis on green spaces located in diverse areas. For the first time in years, Havenwoods is getting a full-time educator to expand outreach.

    Vickio hopes more people get to experience the mental health benefits of being in nature.

    "One of the things that I like to do with groups when were outside is to take some time and purposely be quiet," says Vickio. "You hear birds chirping, you hear crickets, you hear animals moving around, you hear the wind moving between the leaves on the trees. And just to spend time to quiet your mind can really be useful in urban areas."

    After decades serving military and punitive purposes, Havenwoods is now a quiet sanctuary a haven.

    Have a question you'd like WUWM to answer? Submit your query below.

    See more here:
    Havenwoods State Forest in Milwaukee is the result of 'healing' after a military past - WUWM

    It was up there with some of the hurricane-force winds Powell residents wait for power restoration after storms – WATE 6 On Your Side - July 8, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    POWELL, Tenn. (WATE) Whole trees, limbs and leaves covered dozens of yards in Broad Acres after thunderstorms Tuesday and Wednesday. For many, its been a waiting game for the power to be restored.

    Powerful winds snapped a tree in half in Sam Pairs backyard.

    Weve got two big pine trees and now were down to one. It was kind of scary when it came down, he said.

    The tree narrowly missed Pairs home but destroyed his fence when it fell. He and his wife were watching the storm inside.

    I grew up along the Gulf coast and been through some hurricanes, Pair said. And it was up there with some of the hurricane-force winds Ive seen in my life.

    Pair stayed in a hotel with his family Tuesday night due to the lack of power but electricity at his house was on and off Wednesday.

    Next string of storms came through, it got knocked out again so were waiting on it to come back on, Pair said.

    His neighbors across the street are also dealing with their fair share of storm damage and they havent had power for about a day.

    [KUB] came earlier, and they made around, Joey Stottler said. They told us we had a live wire down in our backyard and not to go back there which we didnt last night. Wed already been out there so we luckily didnt get injured or anything.

    According to Stottler, his three kids are taking it in stride while his familys power is out and hell be working on getting things cleaned up.

    Its a huge neighborhood. The power lines run in everybodys back yard so I know its hard for them to get some of this stuff, so well just be at their mercy, he said.

    Marcos Pizza was out delivering dinner in Broad Acres for free to families who still didnt have power Wednesday. Stottler called that a blessing.

    Read more:
    It was up there with some of the hurricane-force winds Powell residents wait for power restoration after storms - WATE 6 On Your Side

    This Peugeot 604 Is One Man’s Obsessive Restoration – Car and Driver - July 8, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Manufacturing the turbodiesel badge affixed to the back of this 1984 Peugeot 604 took Harjeet S. Kalsi two full weeks. With painstaking precision, he recreated the original font, milling a single thin piece of aluminum, micron by micron. Prototypes were made and discarded. He then mixed two batches of resin, getting the tint just right before pouring them into the millimeters-deep cavity. The excess was carefully hand-sanded away, and the piece then buffed to a spotless sheen. That's how much effort went into just the badge.

    John Brendan McAleerCar and Driver

    Witness what is likely the most perfect Peugeot 604 on the planet. An uncommon car when new, the 604 is now basically extinct. Inquiries about parts availability are usually met with a Gallic shrug, and to be blunt, few people still care about this car. But Kalsi does. To him, restoring this car is about setting the world back in balance.

    We've met Kalsi before when Car and Driver featured a look at his unusually reliable 1982 Aston-Martin Lagonda. Yes, you've just read the words reliable and Lagonda in the same sentence. I don't think there's really any car I'm afraid of working on, Kalsi says. It's not bragging, just quiet confidence.

    John Brendan McAleerCar and Driver

    His Lagonda is completely bananas. Painted a bright teal, it looks like the kind of thing Lando Calrissian would win in an illegal Cloud City poker game. Low, long, and with a jaw-dropping interior, it is at once a car and also a rift in the space-time continuum.

    Next to that alligator-hide jumpsuit, the 604 appears as reserved as a scowling French banker. Look closer and the perfection of this car is just as shocking as the garish Aston. The shut lines are all even and identical. The Marchal lights are polished as bright as a young cat's gaze. The lower valence looks brand new. Further, no other 604 has mirror-straight flanks like this onethe factory manufacturing process always warped the rear doors into a slight concave. Kalsi smoothed them into perfection with the patience of one of the takumi who hand-chamfer the flanks of the Toyota Century.

    It's the work of a clearly very patient mechanic. But then, what else might you expect from someone who learned car restoration techniques by creating an essentially-immortal Aston Martin? The point bears underlining: Every technique used to bring this 604 up to such a high standard is something that Kalsi learned by doing on his Lagonda. Fiberglass repair, bodywork, welding, interior leather- and woodwork, and of course engine repair.

    John Brendan McAleerCar and Driver

    And it is also the work of someone who was realizing a childhood dream. Years ago, Kalsi's father assigned his car-crazed teenage son the task of picking out a new family car. The young man pored over his magazine collection and settled on a Peugeot 604. It was an unusual choice but not wildly so.

    In the 1980s, buying a Peugeot was not much different than choosing a Mercedes or a Volvo. European marques represented distinct personalities: a BMW for the leather-driving-gloves crowd, a Saab for the black turtleneck-wearing architects, a Citren for Grace Jones. Peugeots offered French motoring qualities in a relatively conventional package, and U.S. sales peaked in 1984 at 20,000.

    The 604 executive-class sedan boasted most of the ethereal comfort of a Citren, without the quirkiness. While not a commercial success, it was a convincing effort, receiving particular critical praise for elegant styling and pliable ride quality.

    Kalsi Sr. seems to have kept an open mind, and the family did go and look at a 604. However, there were concerns about the expense and effort of trying to keep a French car going on this side of the Atlantic. Visiting a local Peugeot dealership, an employee offered some brutal honesty. A 604 was perhaps too much work if you were not a true Euro enthusiast.

    Kalsi describes leaving short essays on the back door for his dad to read upon coming home from workhere are all the superiorities of a 604, it'll be the poshest car in the neighborhood, I'll always keep it washed and waxed. The entreaties were considered, but practicality prevailed. The Kalsi family bought a sensible 1982 Ford Escort GLX.

    Harjeet was bereft, but also unswayed.

    I knew at some point I would get one, he says, I was sure of it.

    A Majorette model of a 604 was a constant childhood companion. He customized it to have a detailed turbodiesel engine and working suspension. It sat on his desk through school and university. He still has it.

    John Brendan McAleerCar and Driver

    However, attrition was coming for the 604. By around 2010, Harjeet started noticing that fewer were around whenever he was idly searching, and the examples that cropped up were usually afflicted with rust. The search became more serious. He found this U.S.-spec version in Washington state in January 2017. It was in original condition but had not run in decades.

    Getting the engine turning again was the first priority, but not an easy task. Some internet sleuthing and a cold call turned up a cache of Peugeots in a field in nearby Langley, BC. Kalsi waded through blackberry thorns to get at a 604 with what turned out to be a surprisingly well-preserved turbodiesel four-cylinder engine. He pulled the engine himself with hand tools and the help of the farmer's tractor and hauled it back to his home in Surrey.

    It should be noted here that Kalsi is not running a restoration shop. This was work done on his own, an all-consuming side project performed at the same time as he was also doing an extensive property renovation. It was exhausting.

    I did come pretty near to my limit toward the end, Kalsi says. It was pretty frustrating to be 99.9% there but not yet done. I would love to have just woken up and not had anything to do.

    Parts availability was tricky. When pieces could be tracked down, the pandemic slowed shipping to a crawl. Yet Kalsi persevered. The project felt like a Zeno's paradox, inching tantalizingly closer, yet never quite complete.

    John Brendan McAleerCar and Driver

    But the day came, and it was worth it. While what you can see is impressive enough, it's the hidden qualities that make it so special. For instance, 604 dashboards all crack and warp, so Kalsi built a metal frame to hold it in place, hidden beneath the carefully re-wrapped vinyl. Original labeling was recreated for the underhood area and behind the fuel door. The driver's seat is formed from the foam of three seats sectioned into one.

    Sinking in, it's as comfortable as when the car was new. In fact, the whole car feels new. The steering is excellent, more responsive than you'd expect from a car first launched in the 1970s. The suspension is sufficiently soft that a driver can just ignore speedbumps, but the 604 doesn't wallow in the corners. In its day, keeping the turbodiesel torque on the boil, this would have been a decently quick cross-continental European tourer.

    To Kalsi, it is also righting a wrong. His father's pragmatism was probably correct at the time, but this 604 is capturing the car that once got away. Today, he parks it in his garage next to his Lagonda. They represent two very different dreams, both willed into reality by a man who can make even a badge into a work of art.

    John Brendan McAleerCar and Driver

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    This Peugeot 604 Is One Man's Obsessive Restoration - Car and Driver

    Restoration work at Olean Legion thanks to DRI fund – Olean Times Herald - July 8, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    OLEAN Local Legionnaires had two reasons to celebrate the holiday Monday the nations birthday and a finally-completed fresh look for the Legion hall.

    The American Legion Post 530 hall, at 307 E. State St., recently saw completion of a $20,500 exterior restoration thanks to work by PaintMedics and the citys Downtown Revitalization Initiative funding from 2018.

    Jim Tambash, first vice commander of the post, led the effort to secure the funds for the Legion, which were part of a $600,000 allocation of the citys $10 million award for the creation of the Downtown Revitalization and Rehabilitation Fund. The Olean Business Development Corp. was responsible for administering the fund on behalf of New York States Homes and Community Renewal project.

    OBDC reported earlier this year that 26 businesses applied for up to $40,000 in grant money per storefront, with property owners fronting the entire cost of construction to be reimbursed 80% after completion. Funds were made available to businesses and nonprofit organizations inside the geographical DRI zone stretching from Olean General Hospital to the South Union Street bridge.

    As of January, work had been completed at Southern Tier Health Care System, Jamestown Community College and Green Acres Cafe on North Union Street, as well as Jims Park and Shop on Front Street.

    It was a long road, Tambash noted.

    It was over three and a half years, he said, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related delays which dragged the project out far longer than anyone anticipated.

    The local Legion post was founded by veterans recently returned from World War I. The Victorian-style structure that later became the groups current home was built in 1880, with the brick addition for events constructed after World War II.

    We kept it the same as it was, the woodwork, Tambash said, keeping with the requirements of the funding and preserving the historical look of the 140-year-old building.

    Work included repairing the wood trim of the building, as well as some masonry work. Fresh paint rounded out the work.

    For Jim Veno of PaintMedics, the job was also a way to support area veterans.

    Im proud to do this job its one of my proudest jobs, he said.

    Tambash was pleased to have PaintMedics help restore the structure.

    Its beautiful he did a great job, he added.

    See the article here:
    Restoration work at Olean Legion thanks to DRI fund - Olean Times Herald

    Renowned Dermatologist – Dr. Matt Leavitt joins Gore Range Capital as an Executive Partner – Business Wire - July 8, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Matt Leavitt, DO, FAAD, Executive Chairman and Founder of Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery, has joined Gore Range Capital as an Executive Partner. Dr. Leavitt is a board-certified dermatologist, and hair restoration / loss specialist recognized internationally as a leading physician, surgeon, educator, clinical researcher, lecturer, author, and philanthropist.

    He is responsible for building the Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery which currently has a premier practice with more than 160 offices nationwide. Its research division has undertaken studies for major pharmaceutical companies, ranging from skin cancer and melanoma to several related to hair loss and products. Dr. Leavitt is the former Program Director and current Chairman of the Orlando Dermatology Residency Program which he founded in 2015. Dr. Leavitt is also the Founder and Executive Medical Advisor of Medical Hair Restoration (MHR) which merged with Bosley to become the largest surgical hair restoration practice in the U.S.

    Ethan Rigel, Founding and Managing Partner of Gore Range Capital, said, The Gore Range team is thrilled to have Dr. Matt Leavitt join us as an Executive Partner. He brings his extraordinary entrepreneurial experience and success having founded, grown, and sold multiple companies in the skin health space. Dr. Leavitt joins our team of expert investors, renowned dermatologists, and leading scientist working with the best entrepreneurs to create groundbreaking and innovative solutions to advance aging sciences. The addition of Dr. Leavitts medical dermatology and aesthetic medicine expertise to our investment process helps to further establish Gore Range as the leading investors in Skin Health, Aging, and Wellness.

    I am excited about leveraging my experience to help great entrepreneurs build and grow world-class companies. Joining Gore Range Capital as an Executive Partner is a great opportunity to continue my vision of improving the current state of healthcare. My goal is to support and enhance startups that are working on transformative products and exploring new ways to improve the lives of patients, said Dr. Leavitt.

    Dr. Leavitt has served as President of the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD) and is a founding father of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery, where he served as its first Vice President. Dr. Leavitt is also one of the founding members and is President of the Hair Foundation. Dr. Leavitt served as Chapter President of the Central and Northeast Florida Crohns and Colitis Foundation and as a member of the National Board of Trustees for the Crohns and Colitis Foundation of America. He is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery (Founder), The American Osteopathic Association and the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (Past President).

    The Gore Range team is thrilled to have Dr. Matt Leavitt join us as an Executive Partner. He brings his extraordinary entrepreneurial experience and success having founded, grown, and sold multiple companies in the skin health space, says Ethan Rigel, Founder and Managing Partner of Gore Range Capital. Dr. Leavitt joins our team of expert investors, renowned dermatologists, and leading scientist working with the best entrepreneurs to create groundbreaking and innovative solutions to advance aging sciences. The addition of Dr. Leavitts medical dermatology and aesthetic medicine expertise to our investment process helps to further establish Gore Range as the leading investors in Skin Health, Aging, and Wellness.

    Dr. Leavitt is the Founder and Chairman of the KCU-GME/ADCS Orlando Dermatology Residency Program and established a dermatology fellowship program for physician assistants and nurse practitioners. He serves as a clinical assistant professor in dermatology for the University of Central Florida and for Kansas City University. He has received numerous grants and awards, including the prestigious Golden Follicle, from the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgeons. He has been featured as the cover article for The Dermatologist, and has authored numerous articles for dermatology, hair, and cosmetic dermatology journals, as well as authoring chapters in textbooks and presenting before the U.S. Congress on issues pertaining to debilitating skin diseases and Crohns and Colitis. In 2022, he was listed as one of the best 150 Medical Dermatologists in the US by Newsweek Magazine.

    Link to Full Profile

    About Gore Range Capital

    Gore Range Capital is a venture capital firm investing in early-stage healthcare businesses with a focus on skin health. The firm blends the hands-on approach of operationally focused private equity with the early-stage guidance needed in venture capital. Gore Range offers not just capital, but operational, clinical, and scientific expertise that leverages the teams deep industry relationships and its renowned industry advisory board. For more information, visit: https://www.gorerangecapital.com/

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    Renowned Dermatologist - Dr. Matt Leavitt joins Gore Range Capital as an Executive Partner - Business Wire

    Save the Date – Flint Township View – MiHomepaper - July 8, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Food trucks, concert

    GRAND BLANC The second installment of the Grand Blanc food truck festival will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, July 8, in downtown Grand Blanc. Sponsored by the City of Grand Blanc and Downtown Development Authority.

    The Beatles tribute band Toppermost will perform in Physicians Park. The Grand Chalet Shoppes will be open and there is plenty of fun for youngsters at the park and splash pad. L.R.

    Story time

    GRAND BLANC The Grand Blanc McFarlen Library, 515 Perry Road, will host story time at 10:30 a.m. on Fridays, and evening story time at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays in July. Stories, songs and play for ages 5 years old and younger. Information: 810-694-5310. L.R.

    Cemetery restoration class

    GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP Jonathan Appell will present a free headstone restoration class from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, July 11, at Evergreen Cemetery on Hill Road. Free and open to the public.

    Topics: proper cleaning, repair, re-leveling and resetting of historic headstones. Appell will discuss preservation, cemetery safety, stone identification, explanation of carvings, and weather and how it affects stones.

    Participants should bring chairs, coolers, snacks and lunch. There will be a one-hour lunch break which will provide time for visiting local restaurants. L.R.

    Sleeping Beauty puppet show

    GRAND BLANC Stevens Puppets will present a Sleeping Beauty puppet show with hand-painted scenery and hand-carved marionettes at 2 p.m. Monday, July 11, at the Grand Blanc McFarlen Library, 515 Perry Road. Register at http://www.thegdl.org/events/. L.R.

    Drum circle

    GRAND BLANC Lori Fithian will lead a drum circle for all ages at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 16, at the Grand Blanc McFarlen Library, 515 Perry Road. Drum, sing and dance. Fithian will bring her collection of hand drums and percussion toys. Register at http://www.thegdl.org/events/. L.R.

    See the original post here:
    Save the Date - Flint Township View - MiHomepaper

    Learn to make the most of your garden at these summer events – OregonLive - July 8, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Events are free unless noted. Please email calendar submissions at least two weeks in advance to events@oregonian.com.

    ONGOING

    Leach Botanical Garden Tour: 1:30 p.m. Fridays and 10:30 a.m. Saturdays through July. Learn about the gardens history, heritage trees, seasonal plants, habitat restoration and more. Register at leachgarden.org; Leach Botanical Garden, 6704 S.E. 122nd Ave.

    Bumble Bee Hike: 10-11 a.m. Wednesdays through July. Toddlers can look for wildlife, listen to the wind and creek, smell plants and flowers, and touch the trees and leaves. Register at leachgarden.org; Leach Botanical Garden, 6704 S.E. 122nd Ave.

    Mountain Rose Herbs Sunday Annex Series: 1-3 p.m. Sundays through July. Learn from teachers, businesses and plant-minded locals about herbalism, healthy living and more. Cost/sliding scale donation varies; Mountain Rose Herbs Mercantile Annex, 152 W. Fifth Ave., Eugene; mountainroseherbsmercantile.com

    Forest Grove Sesquicentennial Open House and Open Garden Series: July 17 and Aug. 13. Experience a series of tours of homes and gardens in Forest Grove and the surrounding area. $10 per event includes beverage and snack; precise addresses are provided after registration at fhfg.org or 503-992-1280.

    Art in the Garden: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. through Sept. 3. Local artists will showcase handcrafted pieces throughout the 80-acre botanical garden. Free with garden admission ($12 per adult); The Oregon Garden, 879 W. Main St., Silverton; oregongarden.org

    Grow Your Own Produce, The Workshop Series: (online via Zoom) 7-9 p.m. second Thursday of the month through Nov. 10. Permaculture expert Marisha Auerbach helps you learn to maximize your yield with a monthly overview of key garden activities. $100 for a five-class series or $25 per class; permaculturerising.com

    Harvest & Design Workshop Series: 10 a.m. second Saturday of the month through November. Take a monthly guided tour of a flower farm and learn about the plants you will harvest for your arrangement that day. $85 per workshop; Charles Little and Company, 34573 Seavey Loop Road, Eugene; charleslittleandcompany.com

    Little Sprouts Take-home Class Kits: (online instruction) Monthly through December. Kids will learn about a variety of seasonal garden-related topics with these hands-on activities. $10 registration required; Garland Nursery, 5470 N.E. Highway 20, Corvallis; garlandnursery.com, 541-753-6601 or 800-296-6601

    Portland Dahlia Society monthly meeting: 7 p.m. second Tuesday of the month through December. Take part in a monthly discussion of seasonal topics. Oaks Park Dance Pavilion, 7805 S.E. Oaks Park Way; portlanddahlia.com

    Tualatin Valley Beekeepers Association meetings: 6-8 p.m. last Tuesday of the month; Jessie Mays Community Hall, 30975 N.W. Hillcrest St., North Plains or online via Zoom; tvbabees.org or email tualatinvalleybeekeepers@gmail.com

    SATURDAY, JULY 9

    Summer Pruning for Fall Blooms: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Learn how to extend the bloom season of your clematis with summer pruning. $25; Rogerson Clematis Garden at Luscher Farm, 125 Rosemont Road, West Linn; rogersonclematiscollection.org

    Lavender: Wands and More: 10-11 a.m. Use fresh cut lavender to weave fragrant wands and explore other uses including decorative, household and culinary applications. $30; Blooming Junction Garden Center and Farm Market, 35105 N.W. Zion Church Road, Cornelius; bloomingjunction.com

    Succession Planting in the Home Vegetable Garden: 10 a.m.-noon. Discuss which crops are best planted as successions, planting methods and tips, and how to plan for a continuous harvest. Donations welcome; Portland Edible Gardens Demonstration Garden, 4628 N. Willis Blvd.; eventbrite.com

    SUNDAY, JULY 10

    NatureScaping - Art in the Garden: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy a plant sale and a day of art, music, demonstrations and more. NatureScaping of SW Washington Wildlife Botanical Gardens, 11000 N.E. 149th St., Brush Prairie; naturescaping.org

    THURSDAY, JULY 14

    Vinegar Making Workshop: 5-8 p.m. July 14 and 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. July 16. Discover skills of vinegar making on a 32-acre organic farm on Sauvie Island. Cost/sliding scale donation varies; Wapato Island Farm, 15115 N.W. Gillihan Road; wapatoislandfarm.com

    SATURDAY, JULY 16

    Lavender Wreath Class: 10-11 a.m. Use lavender and materials from the farm, and receive instruction on how to make a six-inch ($35) or 10-inch ($40) wreath to take home. Blooming Junction Garden Center and Farm Market, 35105 N.W. Zion Church Road, Cornelius; bloomingjunction.com

    Plant Swap Party: 7-10 p.m. Trade plants, seeds and cuttings over cocktails and mocktails. Freeland Spirits, 2671 N.W. Vaughn St.; eventbrite.com

    SATURDAY, JULY 23

    Tomato Pruning Workshop: 10-11:30 a.m. This hands-on workshop will clarify which types of tomato plants need pruning and provide instruction on when and how to prune. $5 at eventbrite.com/e/378925174397; Clark County Extension, 1919 N.E. 78th St., Vancouver

    Open Garden Invertebrates, Wildlife & Us!: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy garden tours, bee nesting stations, educational displays, hands-on activities and more. WCMGA (Washington County Master Gardener Association) Education Garden at PCC Rock Creek, 17705 N.W. Springville Road; washingtoncountymastergardeners.org

    SUNDAY, JULY 24

    Cornell Farm House Plant Swap: 4-5 p.m. Meet other house plant enthusiasts and trade your labeled cuttings and plants. Cornell Farm, 8212 S.W. Barnes Road; eventbrite.com

    MONDAY, JULY 25

    Drip Irrigation in the Home Garden Workshop: (online via Zoom) 6 p.m. Join WSU Extension Clark County master gardeners Linda and John Tracy for an introductory presentation on origins, concepts, and pros and cons of drip irrigation. Register at wsu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwpduivqjgsH9XQADwDEPEhrxB67c-QIF14

    SATURDAY, AUG. 6

    Portland Rose Society Mini-rose Show: Noon-4 p.m.; $12; Pittock Mansion, 3229 N.W. Pittock Drive; portlandrosesociety.org, royalrosarians.com

    SATURDAY, SEPT. 10

    Salem Hardy Plant Society Fall Plant Sale: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Peruse the display gardens, a selection of garden art and plants for sale. Sebright Gardens, 7185 Lakeside Drive N.E., Salem; salemhardyplantsociety.org

    -- Corey Sheldon

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    Learn to make the most of your garden at these summer events - OregonLive

    This 1971 Datsun 510 May Be The Attainable Japanese Icon You Need – Top Speed - July 8, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    The little brother of the original GT-R

    The Datsun 510 was the predecessor to one of the most iconic Japanese cars of all time the Nissan Skyline 2000 GT-R Hakosuka. While the Datsun 510 is the much smaller sibling, it shares much of the aesthetics of the Skyline C10 chassis, including the boxy design, quad-headlights, and even the taillight design. More importantly, like the GT-R, the 510 was a successful race car.

    It was Australian racing driver, Peter Brock, who managed to utilize the full potential of the Datsun 510, which boasted an exceptionally nimble chassis, rugged engine, and tight handling. The 510 proved capable around the Trans Am racing circuit, earning it the nickname The Giant Killer. This particular example, listed for sale in Lavergne, Tennessee, pays homage to that racing history by scoring parts of the Brock Racing Enterprises (BRE) livery on the sides.

    Under the hood, theres a peppy, 1.6-liter SOHC, carbureted inline-four that produces 96 horsepower (71.5 kilowatts) at 5,600 RPM and 100 pound-feet (135 Nm) at 3,600 RPM. The engine is part of the L-series family, which is known from the Datsun Z-cars. Those, however, were equipped with the inline-six versions. A four-speed manual sends power to the rear, resulting in a 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) time of 1.6 seconds. Contributing to the cars exceptional weight is the curb weight of 2,105 pounds (955 kg).

    This particular one is also a two-door and bright red, and has the dual four-spoke wheels fitted. The interior of the Datsun 510 is quite spartan, but this one has been updated in a very neat, two-tone color scheme in order to celebrate the 510s racing heritage. On paper, the performance figures of the small Datsun arent anything to write home about, but as the saying goes, Its not the size of the dog in a fight, its the size of the fight in the dog, and this one, with just 24063 miles (38725 km) on the odometer, has plenty of that left inside. As for the asking price, its set at $22,995, which all things considered is not too bad if you are into classic JDMs. These used to go for just a few grand back in the day, but those days are long gone.

    Source: Classic Cars

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    This 1971 Datsun 510 May Be The Attainable Japanese Icon You Need - Top Speed

    Get inspiration from these amazing home improvement projects in Alabama – AL.com - April 19, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Need inspiration for a home improvement project? Look no further than the 2022 Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards.

    The annual awards, presented by the Home Builders Association of Alabama, honor outstanding craftsmanship, innovation and attention to detail in remodeling projects throughout the state. The competition expanded last year to include custom builds, as well.

    To qualify for entry in the 2022 competition, projects had to be completed in Alabama between June 30, 2020, and December 31, 2021. A panel of judges -- made up of builders and remodelers from around the state -- reviewed and scored the entries.

    Winners in 20 categories were announced at an April 9 event in Montgomery. The winner of a Peoples Choice Award was revealed on April 15: a Sam Jacksons Emporium project in downtown Tuscaloosa, created by The Builders Group. Its also this years champ in the Commercial Renovation category.

    Here are details on the winning projects, from luxurious custom home to a fancy basement bunkhouse. Youll find a photo of each project, info on the winning builder and a description in the story below.

    More photos are showcased in the gallery at the top of this post, highlighting a few winners and runners-up that especially caught our eye. In some cases, weve also included before images that provide sharp contrasts to the finished products. (See the full list of 2022 winners and runners-up here.)

    This project won in two categories: Best in Show and Custom Home Over $1 Million. The "LaPrado Custom Home" was created by River Brook Design & Construction of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: River Brook Design & Construction (LaPrado Custom Home), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: This 4,200 square foot custom build was designed with a European feel to fit into its historic neighborhood, with a cedar roof, copper gutters and locally-cut natural fieldstone to add to its charm. To give the interior an open feel without being TOO open, a large entry way was created to separate the kitchen, living and dining rooms. With outdoor views a priority, the kitchen was situated in front of a bank of windows. To keep the view open, a traditional vent hood was eliminated, and a Wolf vent installed that pulls air up from the cooking surface of the LaCornue French range.

    Keeping outdoor entertaining in mind, a butlers pantry was created near the outdoor living space. It does double duty as a laundry room, with the washer and dryer hidden behind casework and cabinets designed to conceal full size laundry baskets. The owners suite continues the homes European influence with marble slab fronts on the vanity and full marble slabs in the shower. Outdoor living spaces, including a covered patio with a large fireplace, help the owners take full advantage of their surroundings.

    An open concept is integral to the "Hawksbury Lane" remodel by Precision Homecrafters of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. The overall remodel won in the category of Whole House Remodel Under $250,000. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: Precision Homecrafters (Hawksbury Lane), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: These homeowners wanted a new layout for their homes main level, which originally consisted of several small, cut-up spaces including a galley kitchen, a small living/dining room, and a porch that was unconditioned and could only be used 6 months out of the year. To achieve a more open-concept and functional plan, interior walls were demoed to create a new kitchen, living and dining space. The kitchen was relocated to the back of the house, where it could better take in the backyard views.

    A large center island offers plenty of space for storage, prep work, and seating. A combo laundry room and pantry were built to double the storage that the kitchen originally had, with a barn door closing off the space. The porch was converted into a powder room, giving the family a much needed first-floor bathroom. In the kitchens original location, an 8 foot wall was built to create an entry way, and a mud bench installed for a convenient place to store bags and coats upon entry. New lighting, including glass pendants above the island, undercabinet LED lights, sconces, and recessed can lights provide ample lighting throughout the finished space.

    This "Waterfront Dream Home" was remodeled by J. Manifold Construction of the Lee County Home Builders Association. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: J. Manifold Construction (Waterfront Dream Home), Lee County Home Builders Association.

    Description: The water frontage on this property was what attracted the family to this lake home, but they knew theyd need a full house remodel to turn it into their dream getaway. The roofline was raised in order to bring dimension to the once-drab interior. An open concept was created for the kitchen and family area by removing a center wall that divided the original space. The kitchen features a large island and contrasting cabinets.

    Reclaimed rough sawn beams were installed to highlight the vaulted ceiling. The beams and heart pine flooring continue into the sunroom, where floor to ceiling windows bring in the lakefront views. A once-unusable basement space was redesigned with built-in bunks, a new bathroom, and space to play. The original owners suite had low ceilings, small closets and a non-functioning bathroom. Incorporating wood into the new bath design and on the bedrooms vaulted ceiling helps reflect the homes natural surroundings.

    This bathroom is part of a whole-house remodel, "Shandwick House," from R & R Construction of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: R & R Construction (Shandwick Place), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: The main goal of this remodel was to create space to accommodate the homeowners parents while maintaining a sense of privacy, independence, and comfort for both families. The exterior underwent a full remodel, with modified roof lines, the addition of wing walls, brick, stone and Hardi accents, new windows, and fresh exterior paint. An addition was built featuring separate living quarters which include a secondary living suite with a full bedroom, bath, kitchen, rec room and concrete storm room.

    Tying the two separate living spaces together is the original kitchen, which underwent a total transformation. Dark hex tile and marble countertops contrast with the white cabinetry and a large center island can accommodate multiple family members. A screened porch with outdoor fireplace allows the family to enjoy indoor/outdoor living year round.

    This "Modern Transformation" kitchen was created by Precision Homecrafters of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: Precision Homecrafters (Modern Transformation), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: These homeowners wanted to relocate and enlarge their small, dark galley style kitchen, which was located at the front of the house right as you walked in the front door. The main interior walls were demoed to create a more functional kitchen with a new laundry room and pantry. The original back window was widened to give more of a view at the kitchen sink. All new two-toned cabinets with darker bases and white upper cabinets were installed to create a larger visual space.

    The gray picket backsplash tile provides a contrast of texture and color. Two deep, full-height cabinets provide pantry storage. The laundry area has upper cabinet storage, a hanging rod, and a quartz folding counter above the washer and dryer. A barn door keeps the laundry room and pantry more open to the kitchen and allows a natural flow between the two. An entryway with mud bench area was created where the kitchen originally stood, with custom drawers and cubbies for added storage.

    This "Hollywood Kitchen" was created by j. fante studio of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: j. fante studio (Hollywood Kitchen), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: Set in a 1930s home in a historic neighborhood, this kitchen required serious overhaul with the plumbing, electrical and gas systems before the transformation could really begin. The original kitchen was gutted and turned into a mudroom and walk-in pantry, and the old master bedroom became the new kitchen location. Locally crafted custom inset cabinets with honed marble countertops were installed. Cabinet panels conceal appliances, including the 30-inch column refrigerator and freezer pair, which are next to a pantry cabinet housing a coffee maker and small appliances.

    The LaCornue range is highlighted in a dual radius arched opening. A hidden niche on one side and recessed shelves on the other allow for quick access to everyday cooking needs for this former professional baker. Reclaimed wood beams tie in with the new character white oak flooring and island. New Bessemer Glass French doors and triple casement windows over the sink bring a balance of old Southern tradition and new construction techniques.

    This "Chef's Kiss" kitchen was created by Taylor Burton Company, Inc. of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: Taylor Burton Company, Inc. (Chefs Kiss), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: The existing kitchen was choppy, dark, and tucked away. Several load bearing walls were removed to open up the space, and a triple window was installed flush with the countertop to add natural light. A 12-foot island was built to include a six-foot sink with two Waterstone faucets. Other features include a Wolf range with Waterstone pot filler, quartzite countertops and backsplashes, and brass and stainless steel fixtures. Built-in fridges, wine coolers, and a wet bar make for easy entertaining.

    A unique trayed ceiling above the island was created by repurposing the kitchens flooring and cutting and installing the boards in a herringbone pattern. New custom white oak flooring was installed to match the rest of the home. Dated wooden handrails on the adjacent staircase were replaced with custom handmade iron handrails.

    This "Powder Bath at the Lake" was created by Precision Homecrafters of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: Precision Homecrafters (Powder Bath at the Lake), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: A lack of counter and storage space, meager lighting, and dark, drab paint colors made this powder bath feel small and uninviting. To create a better functioning and updated space, an adjacent coat closet was demoed and incorporated into the bath. The sink area was moved to a larger wall and became the focal point of the project. A local craftsman created the new vanity with a single inset drawer and polished nickel tapered legs. A vessel sink sits on a 3-inch piece of silestone quartz.

    The entire sink wall is covered from floor to ceiling in a herringbone pattern tile to create a beautiful backdrop. An oversized infinity mirror was installed to complement the large size of the vanity. Plumbing fixtures and accessories in polished nickel were added, and recessed LED can lights and sconces at the mirror provide ample lighting for the new space.

    This "Bear Trace Bathroom" was created by Precision Homecrafters of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: Precision Homecrafters (Bear Trace Bathroom), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: These homeowners were ready to exchange their poorly lit builder-grade bathroom with an awkward layout for new cabinetry and lighter finishes. The old bathroom was demoed and the unused jacuzzi tub was removed, enabling the shower to double in size. In place of the previous large shower threshold was built a zero-entry shower with a bench and several niches. The new shower features large, polished wall tiles with minimal grout lines, and the shower head wall is highlighted with a 2 by 4-inch specialty tile pattern.

    All new cabinetry with tower storage was installed. Custom pull-outs in the linen cabinet provide easy access for harder to reach items. Gold-tone fixtures and hardware echo the warm veining in the tile. The once-dark bathroom was updated with a new lighting scheme that included rows of recessed LED can lights throughout the shower area and clear sconces flanking the mirrors to reflect plenty of light in the new space.

    This "Hollywood Addition" was created by Precision Homecrafters of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: Precision Homecrafters (Hollywood Addition), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: The owner of this 1928 Tudor-style home wanted to expand the breakfast nook into the garden area and create a new dining room, covered porch and grilling area. To create the new interior addition while connecting it to the kitchen, the backdoor was filled in to become an interior window opening looking into the new dining room. The kitchen countertops were replaced to extend down the wall and into the opening for more counter space. A bar area was created with stools on the dining room side for additional seating.

    The exposed brick openings coordinate with the rustic flagstone flooring and rough-sawn cedar and pine ceiling. Outside, copper gutters and a custom steel and copper awning were installed. Recessed down lights and modern black ceiling fans highlight the covered porch. New flagstone walkways were designed to flow through the garden area. The small entry porch on the driveway side of the house received a new roof to match the dining addition.

    The exterior remodel of "Shandwick Place" was created by R & R Construction of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: R & R Construction (Shandwick Place), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: The exterior of this home, built in the 1990s, was overdue for a facelift. To help give it a modern look, the brick was painted white. The rooflines were modified and wing walls created. Stone, brick and artisan Hardi board were added. New windows were installed. At the rear of the home, a new screened porch was designed to bring the outdoors in. Dark shutters and trim tie everything together.

    This "Porch with a View" was created by Precision Homecrafters of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: Precision Homecrafters (Porch with a View), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: This aging deck was not in keeping with the dramatic city skyline views enjoyed by the homeowners. To create a space worthy of the views, three specific areas were designed, beginning with a 475 square foot open deck large enough for a grilling area and a new dining table with seating for 10. A 270 square foot covered porch was built for relaxation and entertaining, with a comfortable seating area. A fireplace was built featuring Eldorado stacked stone and hearthstones, and a custom reclaimed cedar mantle taken from an old bar in Tennessee.

    An intimate two-person dining area was created near the homes existing French doors. A new staircase and landing were constructed to allow for the underdeck and backyard access. A wrought iron gate at the top of the stairs provides a safe place for the owners dogs to be let out to enjoy the new outdoor space.

    "A Tight Squeeze Reno" was created by J. Manifold Construction of the Lee County Home Builders Association. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: J. Manifold Construction (A Tight Squeeze Reno), Lee County Home Builders Association.

    Description: Removing an obsolete fireplace and hearth helped turn once unusable space in this basement into a bunk room for this growing family. Durable shiplap painted white was used to construct the six bunks, while the bunk steps received a contrasting stain. The stairwell leading into the basement was also updated with drywall, stained wood steps, and an iron railing to add personality to the space. The old half bath was reconfigured for a full bath large enough for a full shower, double sink vanity, and private water closet. A large wall-mounted TV provides entertainment in this new space, that can now comfortably sleep nine without overcrowding.

    This "Lake House Laundry Room" was created by Precision Homecrafters of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: Precision Homecrafters (Lake House Laundry Room), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: These homeowners wanted to turn their 90s laundry room with minimal storage into a new laundry with custom organization and a state of the art washer/dryer. To give the space the storage it needed to also serve as an extra pantry and coat closet, an entire wall of full-height cabinets was designed with custom organization and pull-outs. Double door cabinets with roll-out shelving provides ample storage for pantry items and small appliances. A new Samsung Flexwash and Flexdryer were installed that can accommodate up to four loads at a time.

    A pull-down hanging rod above provides additional hanging space for clothes. Double base cabinet pull-outs to the right of the dryer house laundry supplies. A new sink area was created underneath the feature window to take in lake views while providing a functional folding counter. The sink wall features Calacatta marble hex tile with light gray veining that matches the Shaker-style cabinetry. Warm-toned accents and new lighting brighten up the space.

    This remodel of "Historic Duplex," comes from Trick Construction & Remodel of the Home Builders Association of Tuscaloosa. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: Trick Construction & Remodel (Historic Duplex), Home Builders Association of Tuscaloosa.

    Description: The new owner of this 100-year-old house had lived in it as a college student and had a strong sentimental connection to the property, which he wanted to turn into a duplex for rental purposes. The overgrown lot was cleared and the weak foundation shored up. The siding was replaced and a new metal roof installed. The brick on the front was cleaned and shored up. Inside, the ceiling was lowered to 9 feet to accommodate a new attic joist and firewall while offering a way for more efficient heating and cooling.

    A fresh coat of paint brightened things up, and new modern cabinets and appliances were installed in both units of the duplex. The uneven floors were leveled to create a smooth, seamless floor, and new tile was installed. Two exterior patios and storage rooms were added along with a fence at each unit for a small but enjoyable outdoor living space.

    This remodel project, "Condemned to Custom Craftsman" comes from Willow Homes of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: Willow Homes (Condemned to Custom Craftsman), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: The original structure on this lot was not only an eyesore, but it was also in complete disrepair and had been condemned by the city. A new 2,300 square foot, four bedroom home was designed to take its place. Wanting to pay homage to the Craftsman style of the original home, plans were drawn with a similar front elevation. Inside, bold paint colors and built-ins throughout the main level play up the Craftsman character.

    The kitchen includes a large island topped with Carrara marble, stainless steel appliances and designer light fixtures. The primary bath features a large soaking tub, slate hexagon floor tile, spacious semi-frameless shower, and separate double vanities with quartz countertops. The new home blends into its historic surroundings and looks like its been there as long as its neighbors.

    This bedroom is part of the Eggers Residence, a custom home from Valere Homes of the Baldwin County Home Builders Association. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: Valere Homes (Eggers Residence), Baldwin County Home Builders Association.

    Description: The exterior of this European-style home features copper roof accents, wood working shutters, and steep gables. The grand foyer shows off the 12-foot ceilings that also run throughout the great room and kitchen. An ornate fireplace and coffered ceiling add drama to the greatroom. In the kitchen, a massive island with oversized corbels is the rooms centerpiece. Commercial grade appliances and 10 foot tall cabinets give inspiration to any level of cook.

    The primary bedroom and bath offer rest and relaxation. The bedroom includes a large sitting area with ample natural light for reading, looking out at the pool, or watching wildlife. The primary bath features separate vanities, a free standing cast iron slipper tub, and an oversized shower with three separate spray functions. Carefully crafted trim and woodwork throughout help make this an elegant yet relaxing home that the homeowners can enjoy in their retirement.

    This commercial renovation of Sam Jacksons Emporium was created by The Builders Group of the Home Builders Association of Tuscaloosa. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: The Builders Group (Sam Jacksons Emporium), Home Builders Association of Tuscaloosa.

    Description: Located in the heart of downtown, this 10,500 square foot building had originally served as a supermarket, then later a local emporium. The new owners wanted to renovate it to serve as its office space but still salvage as much of the original character as possible. Not keeping in its original character was the metal awning on the front exterior, so that was removed. The buildings signature church steeple was refinished, and a functioning clock added.

    The reception area features a built-in desk framed by custom made, LED color-changing signage, creating a statement for clients when they enter. A sitting area and a large conference room, both located along the front of the building, are brightened by the upgraded storefront windows. Individual offices were created as well as a large open workspace designed to be used as floating workstations. Two insulated phone booths were constructed to give the occupying agents maximum privacy for client meetings and conversations. The use of original materials such as the scraped tin ceiling tiles and brick left exposed throughout help preserve the buildings history.

    This home, "Blue Haven" was remodeled after a fire by BMR Homes, Inc. Remodeling & Restoration of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders. (Courtesy of Home Builders Association of Alabama)

    Winner: BMR Homes, Inc. Remodeling & Restoration (Blue Haven), Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders.

    Description: Already in need of updating, this home was ravaged by a devastating fire. The restoration gave the homeowner the opportunity to keep her homeplace while making some much-needed changes inside and out. The green paint exterior was updated to a bright blue. The back stairs were dangerous, so they were rebuilt to code, making them safer to navigate. The kitchen and dining areas were rebuilt to provide comfortable places for hosting extended family gatherings for holidays and birthdays. Not only is the home now a beautiful, welcome sight on her neighborhood corner, but it has also greatly improved the homeowners quality of life.

    The rest is here:
    Get inspiration from these amazing home improvement projects in Alabama - AL.com

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