WGRZ 5:31 PM. EDT May 30, 2017

Downtown Jamestown (Photo: WGRZ)

JAMESTOWN, NY-- Ten million dollars from Albany will help revitalize downtown Jamestown.

State leaders were in town on Tuesday to announce ten projects that will get a share of the money, that Jamestown won in a state-wide competition.

That includes a redevelopment of the Key-Bank building, turning the city's Renaissance Center into the Jamestown Brewing Company and making the city more pedestrian-friendly.

"Once you focus on making it a walkable community, and you have bump-outs at the intersections to shorten the distance where a pedestrian or bicyclist is exposed to traffic, it gives you a greater senese of security," said NYS Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul.

Here is the list of projects according to the Governor's office:

Redevelop the Key Bank Building-Transform a mostly abandoned bank building in the center of downtown Jamestown into a mixed-use downtown anchor which will increase residential opportunities, bring new commercial activity, and create jobs in the downtown. The renovations will provide 10,000 feet of office space, 8 market-rate apartments, a restaurant space, 4-6 pop-up retail spaces, a wine tasting room, and an escape the room-type attraction.

Bring a Full Service Hotel to Downtown Jamestown Convert the former Ramada hotel site into a Hilton DoubleTree, returning a full-service hotel to Downtown Jamestown. There is currently only one hotel in Jamestown, and it is a limited-services facility. This project will address a financing gap and allow the development to move forward with the full renovation of the vacant hotel to provide a new, higher-end lodging option for visitors to the Comedy Center and other downtown attractions. The new hotel will include 144 rooms, a 4,000 square foot banquet space, two restaurants and a bar, which will enhance the street-level experience in the area.

Improve the Riverwalk Experience Enhance public space along the Chadakoin Riverfront and improve public access to transform it the riverfront into a destination that appeals to a variety of user groups and increases visitation both to the riverfront and to downtown. The project will install state-of-the-art LED lights to improve visual aesthetics and activate interest in the waterfront as an evening destination, support construction of kayak and canoe launches, and install a catchment system to collect contain debris flushed downstream from the Warner Dam before it reaches the downtown riverfront.

Redevelop the Jamestown Renaissance Center into the Home of Jamestown Brewing Company Complete interior and exterior renovation of a large, vacant space in downtown Jamestown to transform it into a new restaurant and craft brewery that will increase the dining options downtown, provide banquet space for special events, and create a new draw for visitors from the region. Upgrades to the building will include faade improvements and exterior decks that will have a positive influence on pedestrian activity and vibrancy in the immediate area.

Rehabilitate the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts Transform the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts into a modern arts facility that can continue to develop into one of the premier cultural institutions in the region. The Reg Lenna Center for the Arts encompasses seven connected buildings in downtown Jamestown. This project will implement key parts of a master plan to consolidate and improve the facilities, creating a more attractive and functional cultural downtown anchor. Improvements will include renovation of street-level retail space, upgrades to the theater lobby including addition of a cafe, installation of a multi-media studio, renovated offices and apartments, and space, and other safety and functional upgrades.

Install Necessary Rail Infrastructure to Support the Advancement of a Regional Excursion Train Connecting to Buffalo and Niagara Falls Undertake key improvements necessary to bring the regional excursion train that will connect Buffalo to Niagara Falls into downtown Jamestown and allow passengers to disembark at the National Comedy Center. The project includes installing passing rail siding, providing a walkway from the disembarkment area to the Jamestown multimodal center, and providing necessary utility connections at the Jamestown station that is part of a regional excursion train initiative.

Improve Streetscape and Pedestrian Environment Make targeted investment in three locations downtown to enhance the pedestrian experience in downtown and encourage pedestrian activity. Investments will include street trees, planting beds, and accent paving in the furniture zone to enhance the aesthetics of the streetscape. Pedestrian amenities such as benches, bike racks, and trash cans will be distributed throughout the streetscape, with the majority located adjacent to the primary attractions to support connections between destinations.

Coordinate and Supplement Local Efforts to Provide All-Season Programming to Attract People Downtown--Fund and execute all-season programming to attract a range of audiences to the Downtown and Riverwalk through a fund that will coordinate and supplement efforts. All-season programming will attract a range of audiences to the downtown and Riverwalk throughout the year, and will encourage an influx of patrons to downtown businesses especially in shoulder seasons. Increased financial resources will improve coordination and supplement efforts currently undertaken by individual cultural attractions and local foundations.

Improve the Visitor Experience to the Robert H. Jackson Center Undertake needed upgrades to improve the visitor experience to the Jackson Center and enable the center to grow as a local cultural and historic anchor institution. Upgrades to the historic 858 Italianate mansion that houses the center will include stabilizing and improving the structure, modernizing infrastructure, and creating more useable space that enhances the Centers collection and is conducive to program expansion opportunities. The upgrades will improve the facilitys visitor experience and enable more productive partnerships with local, regional, national, and international groups.

Implement Critical Upgrades to the Lucille Ball Little Theater Make needed upgrades to the historic Lucille Ball Little Theater to allow it to provide space for year-round events, attract high-quality performances, and draw visitors to the downtown. Installation of new air conditioning and fly systems and upgrades to the buildings faade, and the addition of outside display cases will contribute to the theater's ability to draw an audience, expand programming, and provided needed overflow event space for the National Comedy Center during peak visitor seasons.

2017 WGRZ-TV

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Jamestown gets $10M to revitalize downtown - WGRZ-TV

V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding of Meriden, CT, has received GAFs 2017 Presidents Club Award. A GAF Master Elite(R) contractor since 2003, it has become synonymous with roofing, siding, and home-remodeling services in central Connecticut.

Meriden, CT May 26, 2017

V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding, Inc., of Meriden, Connecticut, has received the most prestigious contractor award GAF offers: The GAF Presidents Club Award. This highly coveted award recognizes V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding as one of the elite of the elite residential roofing contractors in the United States.

GAF is North Americas largest roofing manufacturer, and only GAF Master Elite(R) Contractors can compete for its residential Presidents Club Award. To qualify for this award, a residential roofing contractor must meet specific criteria in at least one out of three different pathways: the Performance pathway, where contractors focus on giving their property owners the best possible service, quality, and protection; the Reliability pathway, where the contractor has a long history of offering their customers the best quality and protection; and the Service pathway, where contractors consistently offer their customers the best protection available in the marketplace.

V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding has been a GAF Master Elite(R) Contractor since 2003; the company received the Presidents Club Award due to its excellent performance in 2016. To become a Master Elite(R) Contractora status that less than 2% of roofing contractors nationwide are able to achievea candidate must demonstrate proper licensing, maintain insurance (in states that require it), have a proven reputation, and show commitment to ongoing professional training.

Owned and operated by the same gentleman for more than 50 years, V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding is a company that customers hire for its longevity in the industry and its excellent reputation. If customers live in Connecticut, theyve probably heard of our company, says president Vincent Nanfito. Weve been here since 1965, and weve always prided ourselves on using the finest quality materials for every project we build.

Providing residential and commercial remodeling and roofing services throughout Connecticut, the companys wide range of services meets the needs of every customer. In addition to roof repair and replacement, V. Nanfito Roofing offers services in window replacement, vinyl siding, gutter installation and repair, and a full spectrum of remodeling services that includes kitchens and bathrooms, basement refinishing, addition, enlargements, and expansions. Other available services include interior and exterior trim, custom decks, dormers, chimney repair, shutters, railings, and awnings.

Maintaining affiliations with local, state, and national trade organizations, including the National Remodelers Association, the Remodeling Contractors Association, and the National Association of Home Builders, the company stays involved in the industry. V. Nanfito Roofing also has ties to local communities, holding memberships in the chambers of commerce of Wallingford, Southington, and the Greater Meriden and Quinnipiac regions. An EPA-certified lead-safe firm, the company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

The companys community ties are displayed in its commitment to the No Roof Left Behind program. In 2015, we gave away a free roof to a deserving family, explains Nanfito. In 2016, we doubled our contribution and gave away two roofs, because this program has filled our hearts with such joy. Helping the community is a personal responsibility that we constantly take on, giving above and beyond to help local families and charities flourish. Our company doesnt focus just on sales; we care about our community and about working with our customers.

Growth is the keyword going forward. Wed love to surpass our current amount of customers, concludes Nanfito, and continue to have a successful No Left Roof Behind giveaway. Although were growing exponentially and adding expert staff, we still maintain the personalized service, face-to-face consultations, and quality workmanship that put us on the map decades ago. So well continue to growbut also continue to provide great quality and service at a reasonable cost. V. Nanfito Roofing provides customers with the services and care that they need!

About V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding, Inc.

Founded in 1965,V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding has become synonymous with roofing, siding, and home remodeling in central Connecticut. The company provides a full spectrum of home and commercial general-contracting services, from basements to roofs and everything in between. V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding uses the finest materials from quality manufacturers and employs expert staff who are licensed and trained in multiple disciplines.

V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding 558 Hanover Street Meriden, CT 06451 (203) 639-1634 http://www.vnanfito.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/V-Nanfito-Roofing-Siding-Inc-134375610014218/

About GAF:

Founded in 1886, GAF is the largest roofing manufacturer in North America. The Company is an operating subsidiary of Standard Industries.

GAF products include a comprehensive portfolio of roofing systems for residential and commercial properties, which are supported by an extensive national network of factory-certified contractors. Its success is driven by its commitment to Advanced Quality, Industry Expertise, and Solutions Made Simple. GAF was the first roofing manufacturer to offer a Lifetime limited warranty on all of its laminated shingles, which then evolved with the introduction of the GAF Lifetime Roofing System by extending the Lifetime coverage beyond just the roofing shingles.

With a focus on social responsibility, GAF developed Advanced Protection(R) Shingle Technology, providing excellent durability and wind resistance while reducing the use of natural resources. The Company has also developed single-ply and asphaltic roofing membranes with excellent durability and high reflectivity to meet the most rigorous industry standards while helping commercial property owners and designers reduce energy consumption.

GAF also supports the roofing industry through CARE, the Center for the Advancement of Roofing Excellence(TM), which has provided education to over 230,000 professionals. CAREs mission is to help professional contractors and distributors build their businesses through sales and management education, and to provide product and installation training to contractors, distributors, architects, property owners, and related industry personnel.

For more information about GAF, visit: gaf.com

About Standard Industries:

Standard Industries is a privately-held, global, diversified holding company with interests in building materials, aggregates, and related investment businesses in public equities and real estate. With over 7,500 employees and operations in more than 80 countries, Standard maintains a team-oriented culture of meritocracy and operational excellence, and a passionate focus on investing in its people.

Media Contact Company Name: V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding Contact Person: Vincent Nanfito Email: vnanfito11@aol.com Phone: (203) 639-1634 Country: United States Website: http://www.vnanfito.com

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V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding Receives GAF's Prestigious 2017 President's Club Award - MilTech

ROSELLE, ILLINOIS (PRWEB) June 01, 2017

When BathWraps first opened its doors for business 20 years ago, it set out on a mission to transform peoples homes. It started with the realization that consumers were constantly searching for simple solutions to replace outdated or damaged bathroom wetspace. Recognizing that demand for its one-day transformation services was only continuing to climb, even during the housing market crash when many companies suffered, BathWrapsoriginally Liners Directhas since leveraged its position as a recession-proof expert acrylic manufacturer to cater to customers needs. Now, with its two decades of professional experience and innovation, paired with an exciting new partnership with Jacuzzi, BathWraps is perfectly poised for its strongest year yet.

After going by BathWraps by Liners Direct for the last five years, the brand decided to drop its original Liners Direct name completely to make room for a massive rebrand focused on manufacturing and installing custom showers and bathtubs. To better direct its rebranding, BathWraps did extensive research with its dealer and customer networkincluding those who opted not to buy their products. Using that feedback as fuel, the brand redesigned its image and boosted its digital footprint between July of 2016 and January of 2017.

Updating our branding and finding new ways to acquire new partnerships with dealers nationwide has been a natural next step for our brand. Because our internal business had already evolved to stay ahead of the latest industry trends, we wanted to accurately represent ourselves externally to both our customers and our dealers, said Dave Azer, director of marketing for BathWraps. To say that this reimaging has been a success would be an understatement. Theres been a significant spike in activity in the first quarter of 2017 alone, and were eager to leverage our new brand positioning to further our development efforts in the months and years ahead.

Moving into the second quarter of 2017 and beyond, BathWraps is focused on expanding its network of local dealers. Right now, the brand works with more than 120 independent business owners who typically operate within other segments of the one-day installation home improvement industry, including window, siding and sunroom companies and contractors. And theres no upfront cost or agreement required for dealersBathWraps instead provides them with the opportunity to add this service to their existing businesses as another revenue stream that fits seamlessly within their current business model.

Teaming up with BathWraps gives dealers the ability to become an exclusive supplier of its products in a specific territory, allowing them to offer their customers 100 percent virgin durable acrylic thats available in a wide range of colors, with the option to add accessories to complete a bathrooms transformation. That commitment to quality then extends to the brands lifetime guarantee that covers the product for the life of a clients house.

By partnering with BathWraps, these dealers also gain access to a support team that guides them through the brands products and services. The brand boasts the best dealer support system in the industry, and gives its partners access to an in-home sales app designed to determine the best product for every individual client. Every installer is also factory-certified and kept up to date on the latest trends through ongoing training and marketing support, with BathWraps oftentimes accompanying its dealers on their first installation to ensure that it goes well.

BathWraps is currently engaged in successful relationships with major dealers and contractors across the country, yet there is still a high demand for BathWraps products in communities across the U.S. Now, the brand is looking to build on its strong foundation by expanding even further into key states in 2017 including New York, Mississippi, Alabama, Nebraska, North Dakota and Washington.

We pride ourselves on partnering exclusively with outstanding quality dealers, and were looking forward to expanding our reach in the months ahead with contractors who pride themselves on the same quality of work as BathWraps provides, said Eileen King, senior marketing manager of BathWraps. The BathWraps brand now features additional products too, and were excited to show more dealers how we can help them expand their businesses and boost their bottom lines.

One of those new products comes from BathWraps new partnership with Jacuzzi, enabling the brand to distribute walk-in bathtubs made by the original inventor of the popular hydromassage bathtub. The strategic partnership stands out to prospective dealers and home improvement-centric business owners who are looking for new ways to diversify their portfolios and tap into an additional revenue stream.

Theres no doubt that this is an incredibly exciting time to be a part of the BathWraps brand. From our new partnership with the nationally recognized Jacuzzi brand to our ongoing efforts to grow in new communities, weve once again found ourselves on the cutting edge of the custom bath and shower manufacturing industries, said Jeff Conner, owner of BathWraps. Were looking forward to working with more dealers to bring the best possible products and services to customers and business owners across the country. Our number one priority remains helping customers transform their homes, and were confident that these new initiatives will allow us to do this on a larger scale.

About BathWraps: Backed by 20 years of experience transforming peoples homes, BathWraps is a leading force in the bathtub and shower manufacturing industries. Originally founded as Liners Direct in 1997, the brand creates and installs custom fixtures that are long lasting, easy to maintain, safe to use and simple to install. Its commitment to quality and innovation in the segment stand out among consumers and dealers alike, fueling BathWraps ongoing expansion initiatives. With a network of 120-plus dealers currently operating across the country, the brand plans to continue growing in key communities across the country throughout 2017. For more information on BathWraps services and to inquire about becoming a dealer, please visit https://www.bathwraps.com/.

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BathWraps Launches Plan to Reach New Dealers Across the Country - PR Web (press release)

Eddie Fitzgerald EFitzgeraldNBSJ

New Bern aldermen approved a second request to change the city Land Use Ordinance on Tuesday evening to allow a local car dealership to use material that was not allowed in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard/U.S. 17 corridor.

The Board of Aldermen met in special session at City Hall and held a public hearing to consider allowing corrugated deep-ribbed panels and removing a prohibition on metallic finishes allowed on buildings along the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard/U.S. 17 corridor. The vote was unanimous.

Only one citizen asked a question about the type of material that will now be allowed in the corridor.

In February, the Board of Adjustment denied Cella Fords request for a variance to upgrade its dealership building from a stone-type finish to ACM, an aluminum composite material, which also was not allowed in the corridor.

Jeff Ruggieri, director of Development Services, said in April the Board of Aldermen agreed to support Cella Fords request and on April 4, the Planning and Zoning Board unanimously approved adding ACM to the list of permitted sheathing materials along the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr./U.S. 17 corridor.

When the request came back before aldermen May 9 for final approval, the city ordinance was amended to allow ACM in the MLK/U.S. 17 corridor.

Also at the boards May 9 meeting Cella Ford requested an amendment to add corrugated deep-ribbed material, which, like ACM, was not allowed in the MLK/U.S. 17 corridor, to the city ordinance.

The New Bern Planning & Zoning Board was asked to hold a special meeting May 16 to consider Cella Fords new request. That board opposed recommending to the Board of Aldermen the change to the city ordinance by vote of 6-3, Ruggieri said.

Raymond Layton, chairman of the planning board, said during his boards meeting he was concerned with the request.

What I dont want to do is open up the door for pre-engineered metal buildings along Highway 17/ MLK Boulevard corridor because I think that is what we are trying to prevent, he said.

Some of the other comments made by planning board members May 16 were that it was a knee-jerk reaction to one proposal, was in opposition of what the Land Use Ordinance tried to protect, and was a recipe for one building and could not be done for every building, Ruggieri said.

Ruggieri told the Board of Alderman if the ordinance was changed to allow the cheaper deep-ribbed corrugated material it could lower property values significantly. An acre of land along the MLK corridor is valued at $743,000. A building on the property with deep-ribbed corrugated metal could drop the the value to $322,879, he said.

Alderman Jeffrey Odham thanked Stephen Cella for his patience while trying to upgrade the 40-year-old Cella Ford building.

He said he respected Ford and did not think the company would come up with a design that was cheap. He also there may be some truth in the planning boards characterization of it as a knee-jerk response, but unfortunately it was an issue the Board of Aldermen had to deal with.

Odham said he did not think Cella Ford would devalue his property with the proposed upgrade nor his neighbors property.

According to a study Development Services did for the board, the pros of the corrugated metal include its less expensive than brick, concrete or fiber cement; its comparable in cost to vinyl siding and with lower installation costs, its resistant to fire, weather, rot and insects; has minimal maintenance costs, is recyclable; and does not absorb moisture.

However, corrugated metal as a building material also can decrease property values in a commercial corridor, which leads to decreased ad valorem taxes, the study shows.

The current property value of land along MLK from Glenburnie Road to the U.S.70 overpass is $114 million. If the property was redeveloped with traditional stone or brick commercial buildings, it would have a value of $131 million. If it was redeveloped with corrugated buildings, the property value would fall to $59 million, the study shows.

The amended ordinance now specifically allows deep-ribbed aluminum panels with exposed fasteners. The exterior finish of the panels has to be laminated or baked-on enamel paint prepared to the wall to manufacturer's standards. And the panels shall not exceed 35 percent of the primary building facade, excluding windows and doors.

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Aldermen change city ordinance to allow Cella Ford upgrade - New Bern Sun Journal

Foster Remodeling Solutions will launch its new 3,270-square-foot Home Design and Selection Center in Lorton with an open house on Saturday, April 22 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The event will include seminars on a variety of topics ranging from Kitchen and Bath Design to How to Plan a Successful Remodeling to steps for introducing aging-in-place modifications into the home. Seminar presenters are recognized experts in their respective specialties. Representatives from top manufacturers will also be on hand to answer questions about specific products, appliances and emerging technologies. Several manufacturers will also be contributing new products as raffle items.

Visitors can arrive as early as 10 a.m. and freely browse the newly-expanded Design and Selection Center, which offers over 3,000 square feet of display space. Current and leading-edge building materials, home improvement products and Smart House devices are featured. Chef-prepared hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be served throughout the day.

There will be several full-sized kitchen and bathroom designs on view, vignettes featuring cabinets, vanities, flooring and lighting even a full-sized outdoor courtyard which spotlights break-through materials and styles being applied to roofing and siding.

The open house will also be a forum for conferring with experts affiliated with some of the nation's leading building products manufacturers, and to meet with a home improvement finance specialist.

Our goal is to make it easy for attendees to find answers to an array of home improvement questions in a single day, says David Foster, who has operated Foster Remodeling Solution for over 34 years. We encourage attendees to come prepared with questions, drawings and photos and to bring interested friends and neighbors. All of the offerings are free and open to the public.

Design and selection

The new show room is 30 percent larger than its predecessor. The company has also expanded its offices to 9,400 square feet, allocating more space for staff technical training and conferences with vendors. There are three design consultation rooms that allow homeowners to review in-progress design details of a home improvement on a flat screen television.

Home improvement is a very dynamic industry, Foster observes. You have to stay ahead of changing technologies and evolving practices. We're expanding on methods for bringing ideas to homeowners that have already proven successful.

The larger showroom and growing list of workshops is appreciably an organic response to the demand for useful information we encounter every day, he adds. But this open house will be more of an exposition than we've offered in the past; we're building what we've learned about local homeowner interests.

The three one-hour seminars will be held at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. so that interested parties can attend all three without conflict.

Design consultant Sean McLarty, a veteran remodeler with 33 years of professional experience, will provide critical tips on Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling at 11 a.m.;

Dory Clemens, a space planning specialist, will conduct a seminar at 1 p.m. on aging-in-place applications. The session will focus on how to assess which modifications to your home are most appropriate for short-term and foreseeable needs;

At 3 p.m., Chris Arnold whose 25 years of remodeling experience embraces every facet of the industry will discuss How to Plan a Successful Remodel, including best options for financing a project.

Manufacturer and vendor participation

Top-tier vendors and manufacturers participating in the Design Center have increased substantially in recent years.

Ferguson Enterprises, one of the largest wholesalers of such as bathroom fixture brands as Kohler, Moen and Mirabelle will have a representative on hand to answer questions and discuss trends and innovations.

Chris Clark of NVB Mortgage will help attendees assess current financing options.

A representation from DNB Wireless, a Florida company that specializes in Smart House technologies, will offer demonstrations on home systems management that can be operated via a Smartphone app. DNB Wireless, a certified dealer for Control4 Home automation systems, recently established an office in the Design Center.

While younger people readily embrace Smart technologies, we're finding more people over 60 getting educated in this newer area of home improvement because they recognize the value these conveniences can bring to their lives, Foster notes.

Smart devices, which are increasingly manageable via a Smartphone, can be programmed to control everything from house lights to HVAC to security systems.

The front door bell can activate an audio/video system that allows a homeowner to see and talk to whoever is at the front door even when they're not in the house, the remodeler says. This can be a significant boon to personal safety and comfort.

Break-through applications, however, are by no means limited to the electronics arena, Foster points out.

For instance:

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) looks like wood, but is less expensive and much easier to replace. Optional cork or foam backing makes walking easier.

Ink-jet printing now being applied to porcelain tile has greatly expanded the aesthetic possibilities of this durable flooring material. Shades can range from high- gloss to textured. This has significantly augmented the interior designer's palette.

Quartz is gradually becoming more popular than granite, marble or natural stone for counter surface applications. It is low maintenance and offers a variety of colors, tones and shades.

Further, texturing techniques such as brushing now lend visual distinction to traditional hardwoods; ceramic-infusion, when applied, has resulted in floors that last longer.

Raffle

Several recently-introduced home improvement products are being offered as raffle prizes. Ferguson is donating a Moxie showerhead with wireless speaker that plays music in the shower via Bluetooth technology; DNB Wireless will provide a Sonos Connect Wireless Amp for streaming music and a free custom installation for a flat screen TV of up to 65 inches; Appliance Connection has contributed a KitchenAid Mixer.

Attendees only have to drop their raffle tickets in bowls designated for the prizes they are most interested in, Foster explains. Winners will be notified even if they don't stay for the entire event.

We find it's important to help homeowners make informed decisions, Foster says. But we hope this will also be an enjoyable and festive day for everyone.

Interested parties can register for the showroom opening and for individual seminars online at http://www.fosterremodeling.com, or by calling (703) 350-1371.

John Byrd has been writing about home improvement for 30 years. He can be reached at (703)715-8006, http://www.HomeFrontsNews.com or byrdmatx@gmail.com

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Design and Selection Center aims to educate homeowners with remodeling plans - Fairfaxtimes.com

Dent County voters went to the polls Tuesday to consider a number of election issues and several local offices.

The most discussed decision for many was Proposition 1 and Proposition 2, each a countywide half-cent sales tax to construct and operate a new Dent County Jail, respectively. Despite some outspokenness in online forums, an overwhelming majority cast ballots to authorize both taxes.

With all precincts reporting, both propositions passed by wide margins.

Proposition 1 passed by a vote of 1,525 yes and 731 no. Proposition 2 passed by a tally of 1,485 to 758.

Both measures had to pass in order for the jail project to move forward.

Proposition 1 has a 21-year sunset for the construction of a new 84-bed jail. Proposition 2 would be ongoing to fund the continuing operating costs of the new jail.

The taxes will not go in effect until October.

The project has been in development for more than a year. With the victory, the next phase of the $11 million facility will commence.

Incumbent West Ward Alderman Chad Heithold won a second term by defeating challenger Gene Baker. The final tally was 261-146.

Incumbent East Ward Alderman Haydn "Buzz" Powell was also reelected by defeating Jerry (Jay) Gibbs by a vote of 170-127.

Oak Hill R-Is proposed tax levy increase to fund improvements to school facilities passed by a margin of 160 to 105. The proposition increases the levy from $3.0850 per $100 of assessed value to $3.43. The school board voted to include a 10-year sunset clause in the ballot language, meaning the increase will go away after the 2026 tax year.

An onsite building project is planned to be funded, including a stud-wall wooden framed structure with sheet metal roof and siding.

Other concerns are the energy inefficiency of 56-year-old exterior windows and doors as well as 56-year-old heating systems that are costing the district each year in the form of high energy bills and repairs.

The levy will provide the funding necessary to make the building more energy efficient through the installation of new insulated windows and doors as well as replace the current HVAC units with high efficiency central heating and air conditioning units.

The levy increase is for improvements to facilities only. Revenue from this increase will be earmarked for Capital Projects only.

Incumbents secured their seats for the Salem Memorial District Hospitals Board of Directors

Sue Terry defeated Willie Strader by a vote of 1,087-915 in the District Four contest. George Gruendel also secured his District Six seat by a vote of 1,018 to 897 over Sheri Green.

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New Dent County Jail approved by a wide margin - The Salem News

On Aug. 5, 2016, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) Council 10 completed another major upgrade at its facility at 4224 Ricker Hill Road in west Davenport. The floor of the main ballroom area was professionally finished, thereby dramatically increasing the rooms appeal and ensuring a safe environment for people of all ages.

Support for this project was provided by the Scott County Regional Authority (SCRA). Since 2011, the SCRA and the Riverboat Development Authority (RDA) have provided much appreciated and much needed assistance in renovating the local LULAC facility. The SCRA has also underwritten the installation of new air handling equipment and new siding.

During that same time span, the RDA has sponsored the installation of a new ceiling in the main hall area, two restroom upgrades and numerous event sponsorships, including the LULAC scholarship banquet.

All of these initiatives have been vital to what LULAC Council 10 is doing for our community. The council leadership and its members offer their heartfelt gratitude for the wonderful support provided by the Scott County Regional Authority and the Riverboat Development Authority.

Link:
Letter: LULAC values support - Quad City Times

How much does it cost to replace siding?

House siding is crucial to curb appeal,necessary to close the exterior surface of the building envelope, and offers an opportunity to choose enhancements in appearance as well as insulating properties. Therefore, a good-quality siding can have a major impact on the resale value of a home.

The typical cost of installed average house siding will vary by siding material, its finish quality, the house size, the number of windows and doors, the insulation, climate, the amount of decorative detail,the labor rate and whether or not the material in question needs to be painted or primed by the installer.

The Material choices and typical costs for installed house siding include:

Lowest cost

Wood finish

Economy appearance

Surface maintenance

Lowest cost

No painting

Economy appearance

Easily dented

Not insulating

It might fade over time

It can corrode in some climates

Low cost

No painting

Insulating

Economy appearance

Easily dented

It might fade over time

It can corrode in some climates

Low cost

No painting

Insulating

Economy appearance

Cracking

It might melt in hot climates

Visible seams3

No painting

Better appearance

Insulating

More costly

Easily dented

Wood finish

Good appearance

No painting

Good appearance

Insulating

No maintenance

Stylish

Durable

Costly

Long construction

No maintenance

Stylish

Durable

More costly

Long construction

No maintenance

StylishDurable

Very costly

Long construction

Durability

Low maintenance

Highest return on investment

Costly

Durability

Low maintenance

Insulating

Nicer appearance

An example of a house siding project requires 1,500 square feet of siding not including the window and door areas. The project is to install the house siding and trim around doors and windows. Removal costs (not included) for old siding are shown in the following tables.

In the following tables the Material Cost figures are what the alert DIY persons should expect to pay for all material necessary to complete the installation.

Fir Faced Plywood1 Siding

Standard Grade Non-insulating Aluminum

Standard Grade Insulating Aluminum

Standard Grade Insulating Vinyl2

Deluxe Grade Insulating Aluminum

Redwood4 Faced Plywood1 Siding

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Cost to Replace Siding - Estimates and Prices at Fixr

FITCHBURG -- At first, Andrea Gendron didn't believe her daughter when she called Monday evening with the news the room right above their first-floor apartment had erupted into flames.

She hopped into her car and rushed home from work to 433 Princeton Road, where she saw thick black smoke billowing up from the newly-renovated multi-unit home she shared with her children, grandchildren and others.

"That's when I knew it was my house," said Gendron, who on Tuesday afternoon packed her car with clothes and what other of her belongings that fit.

Gendron and 10 other residents including Roger Caron and his three children, ages 1, 2, and 16, must find a place to live until their home is repaired, a process expected to take up to six months.

"It was amazing, no loss of life," said Gendron. "But three to six months is a long time to sleep on a couch."

Landlord and owner Yesenia Gil said the fire began in her second-floor unit, which she shares with her 26-year-old son.

Fitchburg Fire Chief Kevin Roy said Tuesday the fire was started by careless disposal of smoking materials and caused approximately $70,000 in damages to the two-story wooden-framed structure.

Gil, her hands covered in black soot, said her son was home when flames broke out after 5 p.m. Firefighters managed to contain the flames within two of the home's four units, said Roy.

One of those units had just been installed with new cabinets, one of the many projects Gil undertook before the fire cut short progress on her $40,000 renovation plan, which included the installation of a new boiler, roof and siding.

Caron, a contractor whose job it is to clean up fire-damaged buildings, said he wasn't prepared emotionally with the extent of the heavy fire and water damage.

"To come home to being a victim of something I help people with on a daily basis, it's a weird feeling," Caron said.

After a fire at this multi-family home on Fitchburg s Princeton Road on Monday afternoon, residents were cleaning out their things until it is repaired. Fire Chief Kevin Roy said the fire was caused by careless disposal of smoking materials. SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE/FILE PHOTO

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11 displaced by Fitchburg fire - Sentinel & Enterprise

The annual Erie Home & Garden Expo takes place Friday through Sunday.

A nearly 1,400-square-footmanufactured homearrived in two piecesMonday at the Bayfront Convention Center.

Then crews got down to work, that is, once the pieces just narrowly made it through theConvention Center's large bay doorsearly Tuesday morning.

Three days of drywall, siding, painting, electrical work, interior decorating, landscaping and hardscaping left the home ready for visitation as the centerpiece attraction of the annual Erie Home & Garden Expo, whichbegins Friday and runs through Sunday.

Hawk Manufactured Homes, ofYoungsville, is showcasing the1,387-square-foot home, which is priced at $88,900.The home's 27-foot-by-52-foot floor planfeatures three bedrooms, two full baths, a kitchen, dining nook, utility room and many other amenities.

Manufactured homes are popular with young couples juststarting out and with retirees who are looking to downsize, Hawk Manufactured HomesManagerShawn Finefrock said.

About 8,000 to 10,000 visitors are expected to attend the three-day show, which will feature more than 160 exhibitors,according toshow organizer Mark Concilla, of Erie Promotions & Expos.

The show marks the ninth year Concilla has showcased a manufactured home at the Erie Home & Garden Expo.

"It has been a success for this show and the show we do in Buffalo,'' Concilla said.

The home was deliveredto the Convention Centeron Monday. Tuesday morning, crewsstarted bringingit inside the facility.

"It just barely squeaked past the doors inside here,'' Concilla said. "Watching them pull the two pieces together is quite an art because they have a lot of very sophisticated trucks and they can kind of shift it together.''

After the housewas put together, crews worked on the inside handling drywall,and installation of carpetingand flooring. Exterior work included installation of siding and roof shingles, ramps, steps and landscaping.

Crews from Johnston's Evergreen Nursery and Afton Landscape Supply set up the exterior landscaping, Frontier Lumber crews built an exterior wooden ramp, and staff from Ergo Audio Unlimited outfitted the house with electronic devices.

Painting crews from Elk Creek Painting took over on Wednesday and painted the interior in about five hours.

Arthur F. Schultz Co. furnished the home's interior.

Early Thursday morning, a truck containing all of the home's furniture, art, lamps, window treatments and accessoriesarrived at the Convention Center, andinterior designer Randall Farabaugh, of Arthur F. Schultz Co.,got busyoverseeing the project's interior decor.

A crew of six furnished the home in about four hours.

"The theme is rustic lodge,'' Farabaugh said. "We have a lot of dark browns and leathers and animal heads. It's just a very rustic look. We love doing this project. The majority of the people who walk through that door say, 'I could live here.' We get that all the time. We want it to look like you can actually move in. We don't want it to look unfinished, we want it to feel like somebody actually lives here.''

Ron Leonardi can be reached at 870-1680 or by email. Follow him on twitter at twitter.com/ETNleonardi.

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How a home is assembled in 3 days inside Erie's convention center - GoErie.com