BGS Glass Service offers a wide variety of commercial glass servicesfor all types of office, industrial and retail buildings. BGS Glass Service's windows are looked in, gazed out, and peered through all over southeast Wisconsin.

Our services include complete remodeling of your storefront windows. We can give your commercial building an immediate facelift by updating to a modern look.We have installed commercial glass for everything from bank doors and teller windows to the windows on fast food restaurants.

Whether you need a new glass entrydoor, a window replacement or need the seal on your patiodoor fixed, our team of glass specialists has the tools and experience to get the job done quickly and cost-effectively.

Our residential glass services include installation and repair of:

BGS Glass Service is renowned for our attention to detail and exceptional service. We do extensive work in Waukesha installing residential windows, thermopanes, and glass shelving & tabletops.

BGS Glass Service offers a window of opportunity for your Wisconsin home or commercial building with a large variety of glass colors, textures, and finishes. Choose textured, tinted glass for your Waukesha bathroom shower door installation, or a custom finished full viewglass storm door to increase your Milwaukee homes energy efficiency. Enjoy a clear, unobstructed view of the outdoors with a double pane picture window installation.

From large scale glass installations in Milwaukee office buildings to the smallest custom glass cutting request, call BGS Glass. All glass glazing, replacements and installations from BGS Glass Service are completed with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality.

BGS Glass Service provides superior shower door installations in southeastern Wisconsin. A glass shower door is a useful, elegant addition to any home. We offer an incredible selection of styles and textures, so you can find one just right for your shower.

Framed shower doors are the most affordable option and feature a metal frame which goes around all panels, including the door itself. They are available in two distinct styles: sliding or hinged.

Our framed shower doors feature a thinner glass, which can be customized in any of our glass designs or trim colors to complement your bathroom. Framed doors are durable, easy to clean and instantly transform the look of your bathroom.

With our many hardware options, you'll find the perfect look for your bathroom shower door.

Semi-frameless shower doors have a metal border around the entire structure except for the main door. These doors are a hybrid between framed and frameless shower doors.

A semi-frameless shower door offers modern styling at a great price. They are available in sliding or hinged styles. The glass can be customized to fit your tastes and will give your bathroom an instant facelift.

Our glass experts will help you find just the right look for your shower door.

Frameless shower doors have thicker glass than the framed and semi-frameless doors. This style is the most durable glass shower door we offer.

Our shower doors also keep steam and excess water trapped in the shower, leaving your bathroom floors clean and dry.

With the help of our shower designers, you'll get the best frameless shower doors to complete your bathroom remodeling project.

Our glass professionals are committed to providing the highest quality glass products, factory direct pricing, impeccable installation and excellent service. While other Milwaukee glass companies cut corners to get the job done, the only thing BGS Glass Service cuts ishigh-quality glass to exact specifications.

See through the tinted truth of other Milwaukee glass installation companies and commercial glass glazing contractors. With dedication to complete customer satisfaction, attention to detail, on-time glass installations, and quality craftsmanship, its crystal-clear BGS Glass Service is the number one choice for Milwaukee glass window replacement and new glass installation.

From windows to glass doors, even glass tabletops and glass shelving, BGS Glass Service is the clear choice for all your glass replacement and installation needs. Dont live life in a fog; see clearly again with a quality thermopaneglass replacement from BGS Glass Service Milwaukee.

It's unfortunate, but there are areas around Milwaukee where crime is so rampant it's necessary to have bullet-resistant glass to keep employees safe and deter robberies. Bullet-resistant glass isn't actually glass. It's made of high-strength polycarbonate and acrylic panels. It can also be made by laminating polycarbonate between two sheets of regular glass. Thickness ranges from about a quarter of an inch to 3 inches. As you might expect, the thicker the "glass," the better it's ability to stop a bullet.

What's the difference between bullet-proof glass and bullet-resistant glass?

"Bullet-proof glass" is a bit a misnomer because no glass (or polycarbonate) is completely bulletproof. With repeated shots or a shot from a large enough caliber firearm, any "bulletproof" glass can be pierced. The correct term is "bullet-resistant glass."

Online "window shopping" is fine to get some initial ideas and inspiration, but we suggest you stop by the BGS Glass Service Window and Door showroom located in Waukesha, WI for a clear look at our fine quality glass products. You'll be able to browse a large variety of shower door glass and finish styles, mirrors, and windows. To make your glass-buying experience as easy as possible, our Waukesha glass specialists are on hand to help find the best glass solution for you.

BGS Glass serves homeowners and businesses throughout Waukesha, Milwaukee and all of southeastern Wisconsin

More here:
Milwaukee Window Replacement | Commercial Glass ...

**UPDATE** Wow. We've raised over 10 times the orginial campaign ammount. That is truly amazing. Thank you so much to everybody who has donated. I am truly humbled. I never expected this campaign to get this big. This has been great for the charities, but it hasn't been so great for me personally. I have already said all I am going to say on the matter, and any further requests for comment will be ignored. Thank you so much for your genorosity! I will be leaving this page up until Sunday Evening (GMT) if anyone else wants to donate, after which time 100% of the funds will be split between the two charities. Thankyou for all the interest, it's been a truly humbling 24 hours. I now need to concentrate on my University studies, which have been poorly neglected over the last day. Thanks again, Liam x

I recently took a girl I met on tinder to Nandos. We had a lovely evening, and enjoyed each others company very much. After our meal, we repaired back to my house for a bottle of wine and a scientology doccumentary.

About an hour in to Louis Theroux and chill, my date got up to use the toilet. She returned with a panicked look in her eye, and told me she had something to tell me.

"I went for a poo in your toilet", she told me "and it would not flush. I don't know why I did this, but I panicked", she continued "I reached into the toilet bowl, wrapped it in tissue paper, and threw it out of the window".

I was understandably concerned, and told her we would go outside, bag up the offending poo in the garden, bin it, and pretend the whole sorry affair had never happened. Unfortunately, owing to a design quirk of my house, the toilet window does not in fact open to the garden, but instead into a narrow gap of about a foot and a half, seperated from the outside world by another (non-opening) double glazed window. It was into this twilight zone that my date had thrown her poo. Here are two photos to illustrate:(the offending package within the window)

(The gap)

As can be seen in the picture, the inside window opens at the top, into the gap that is seperated from the garden by a non-opening double-glazed window pane. Seeing only one solution, I messaged our house group-chat, and went upstairs to find a hammer and chisel to smash open the window.

My date had other ideas.

Being an amateur gymnast, she was convinced that she could reach into the window and pull the poo out, using the tried and tested "inside out blag as glove" technique. Unfortunately she couldn't reach. She climbed further in and had the same problem. Eventually I agreed to give her a boost up and into the window. She climbed in head first after her own turd, reached deeper into the window, bagged it up, and passed it out, over the top and back into the toilet from whence it came. She called out to me to help her climb out from the window, I grabbed her waist and I pulled. But she was stuck. Stuck fast. Try as we might, we could not remove her from the window. She was stuck fast, upside down in the gap. Here is a picture to illustrate:

(My date, upside down in the window)

Unfortunately for my date, at this stage I could see only one way out of our predicament. She had been upside down in the window for around 15 minutes at this point, and I was starting to grow concerned for her health. I called the fire brigade.

Bristol's finest were on scene sirens blairing in a matter of minutes. Once they had composed themselves after surveying the scene in front of them, they set to work removing my date from the window using all of their special firemen hammers and tools. It took them about 15 minutes. Here is a picture of them working:

(Easy does it)

Unfortunately, although they rescued my date unharmed from what must have been a rather unpleasant confined space to find yourself in, in the process they had to completely destroy the window with their special fire tools. I'm not complaining, they did what they had to do. Problem is, I've been quoted north of 300 to replace the window. As a postgraduate student, that is a significant chunk of my monthly budget (in fact, that is my monthly budget).

So I'm turning to the internet for help. If people could donate just a couple of pounds/dollars/yen/ruppee/North Korea Won to help me repair my (now broken) window I would be enternally greatful. If the window is not replaced my landlord may well kill me, so you would be literally helping to save a life.

Oh yeah, and if by some miracle I manage to raise more money through this page than the cost of the window, any remainder will be split 50/50between two charities:

First, toilet twinning, a charity building and maintaining flushing toilets in the developing world. 60% of people worldwide don't have access to a flushing toilet, which, when you think about it, really is pretty shit.

Seccond, to the firefighters charity. The guys who came to the house were brilliant, took everything in good humour, and profesional. This call out was pretty funny, but they do risk their lifes on a daily basis, and the firefighters charity provides financial, psychological and medical help to the brave men and women who risk their lives for us.

Thanks in advance gofundme!

(I'm keeping myself and my date anonymous for pretty obvious reasons. She knows about this gofundme page and is cool with it, so plaes respect our privacy)

Link:
Fundraiser by Liam Smith : Replacement window

How much does it cost to install or replace windows?

Windows are an integral part of every home. They let in sunlight and air, and provide a view to the outdoors. No window lasts forever, though, and it's common to need to replace your windows roughly every 20 to 25 years, if not sooner. Common reasons to replace windows may include wanting to increase the energy efficiency of the home, rotting frames or sheathing, water leaks, which have lead to mold or insulation problems, or the desire to increase the value of your home.

There are a number of factors that can affect the cost of window replacements. The material, size of the window, condition of the existing frame, and the type of glass can all impact your final cost. The national average cost of replacing a 3-foot by 5-foot double hung, vinyl 2 window is $1,500, while using a wood window frame costs an average of $1,875 for the same project.

If there is no damage to the existing window frame, and you're replacing your windows for energy efficiency or resale value, the replacement will cost significantly less than if the frames need to be rebuilt. New construction, meaning that the window frames must be created on site to accommodate the new windows, costs approximately 50% more than a simple replacement. So, for the same double-hung vinyl1 window, the cost would be $2,300, or a nearly $800 difference.

A large percentage of the cost of your new windows will come from the type of window pane you choose. Windows come with several options, which can not only affect the cost, but also the efficiency of the window.

Single

($47)

Double

($96)

Low-E

($110)

Triple

($128)

Laminated

($750)

Tempered

($750)

Argon Filled

($40-$55/sq.ft.)

Costly, may be difficult to find in some window types

Many types of window glazing, or glass, including gas filled and Low-E glass, are recommended by Energy Star to improve the performance of the windows and lower your energy bills. While things like Low-E glass cost about 15% more than standard glass, you can save about 30% to 50% in energy loss, which results in lower energy bills.

There are many different types of windows you can choose from. Your style choice will affect the total cost of your project. A range of prices is provided below for each window type (window materials only). Lower prices correspond with lower quality materials, while higher prices correspond with higher quality materials.

Awning

($90-$400)

Double hung

($150-$400)

Sliding

($220-$760)

Half Round

($300-$400)

Round

($300-$500)

Sash

($300-$850)

Casement

($300-$1,400)

Picture

($450-$880)

Bay Window2

($1,200-$3,500)

Aluminum

($75-$300)

Vinyl1

($130-$500)

Wood

($150-$800)

Steel

($300-$1,500)

Fiberglass3

($750-$1,500)

There is a number of factors that can affect the final cost of your windows. In addition to the material, type of window, and type of glass that you choose, the size of your window, it's location, and in some cases the color of the frame may also play a role. Generally, larger windows will increase the cost. Windows for skylights will also be more expensive than traditional windows, with the average skylight running around $450 - $1,500, as will any window installation that requires additional framing, such as a non-standard sized window or increasing the size of a current window while replacing it.

Window replacement labor generally adds between $100 and $200 per window to the total costs. This involves removing the existing window, making any necessary repairs to the frame, installing the new window and caulking4 or sealing up any air gap surrounding it. Windows are installed from the exterior or outside of the house, so ladders or scaffolding5 may be required to assist in the installation. Windows located in difficult to reach locations may cost about 12% more to install than those that are accessible from the ground if scaffolding5 is involved. On average, each window takes around 30 minutes to replace and install providing that the frame is in good condition and requires no additional work.

In the vast majority of cases, the company installing your new windows will both remove your old windows, and dispose of them properly once they are done for no additional fee. If you wish to keep your old windows, you will need to notify the installation team prior to them getting started.

You may want to opt for tempered, safety, or impact resistant glass if you live in an area subjected to things like natural disasters or hail stones. This may increase the cost of the windows by about $14 per foot of glass.

Opting for Energy Star rated windows will decrease energy loss by 30% to 50%. These windows typically cost about 15% more than traditional windows of the same size.

Look for windows with the National Fenestration Rating Council sticker on them. The NFRC rates each window for insulating properties, how well light passes through, potential air gap, and solar heat gain, or how well the windows resist unwanted heat gain during the summer months, the lower the number, the better the resistance. The NFRC label shows all of this at a glance, making it easier for you to choose a window that meets your needs.

Sometimes it's not the window that's causing energy loss, but the air gap around the frame. This can be fixed by sealing the frame with caulk4, and can be done at the same time as a window replacement. Some installers will do this free of charge, while others will add on a cost of around $30 to the project. All window installers will strive to create a watertight seal around the window frame by tightly fitting the new window, and potentially caulking4 this area as well.

The average cost to replace a window ranges from $650 to $1,500. The type and size of window will affect your final cost.

New windows can be installed in just a few hours, provided that you are exchanging the windows for new ones of the same size and shape. Changing the size and shape can add a few days to the timeline.

Labor for window installation typically runs between $100 and $200 for a total of $650 to $1,500 depending on the type of window you choose.

Pella replacement windows have a wide range of costs depending on the size and type of window. Expect to pay between $75 and $1,500 per window.

The average window replacement cost is $650 to $1,500, including labor and the window. Costs range depending on the type and size of window that you choose.

Andersen replacement windows have a wide range of costs depending on the type and size of the window. Low-cost windows start around $75 and costs for high-end bay windows may go as high as $1,000 or more.

Read more:
Window Replacement Cost - Estimates and Prices at Fixr

It's usually pretty easy to tell when your home needs new windows. You can see the drafts blowing the curtains, water damage is clearly visible, or frost is present on the inside layer of glass during the winter. What may not be so apparent; however, is what replacement window option best suits your needs, and what installation methods may pose potential headaches for you and your contractor.

There are basically three different replacement options: sash replacement, frame-and-sash replacement and complete unit replacement. Each has its benefits and drawbacks, and each carries its own installation quirks.

Sash replacement is a good option if the window frame is in good condition with no signs of water damage and the opening is still square and true. These are installed by removing old sashes and parting stops and installing new jamb liners. Most replacement sashes are compression-fit into the liners, making an airtight seal. This is the least expensive way to upgrade energy efficiency; there is no need to disturb trims or casings. However, the overall performance may fall short of other two options, and the new look may make the frame and sash appear too bulky.

"You can get virtually any glazing package with sash replacements that you could on any complete unit," says Brad Oberg, chief technology officer at IBACOS Inc. (www.ibacos.com), an architectural and engineering consulting firm in Pittsburgh. "There's no real sacrifice in performance with these units or the frame-and-sash units, but there may be in aesthetics for some people."

Sash-and-frame replacement can work well if the windowsill is showing signs of moisture damage or air is leaking between the sash and frame but everything else is in good shape. Typically, a single unit is fit into existing jambs and against the interior or exterior stops, then screwed or nailed into the jambs. These are the most expensive units to buy, but homeowners save in reduced labor costs. However, this option can reduce the daylight opening much more significantly than sash replacement.

Complete unit replacement basically a new window with new flashing, sealants, caulking and insulation is the best option for significantly compromised or damaged windows and openings. Requiring removal of old casings and trim, it often causes significant disturbance to interior and exterior finishes and siding. Although this may seem like the most invasive method, with proper installation you will get the best performance of all three options.

When it comes to choosing quality windows for a home, Brad recommends that homeowners look at these key areas:

Just as in replacements, there are different options available for framing:

Vinyl. Typically the least expensive, virtually maintenance free, only available in light colors (dark colors absorb too much heat from the sun and warp).

Fiberglass/composite. More expensive than wood or vinyl, but more durable as well. Requires virtually no maintenance, and can be painted any color, with faux woodgrains also available.

Wood. A popular choice for aesthetics, typically only a little more expensive than vinyl, requires diligent maintenance, can take any stain or color and available in many species.

Aluminum clad. Typically the most expensive but maintenance free, wood exteriors can be stained to match existing dcor, while aluminum exteriors can take almost any color. May not be suitable for coastal environments where saltwater is a concern.

Continued here:
Choosing and Installing Replacement Windows | HGTV

Residents deal with costly expenses after Baltimore steam pipe explosion in June

BALTIMORE, Md. (WBFF) -- There are some frustrated car owners, after that steam pipe explosion in downtown Baltimore.

The blast damaged more than 30 vehicles two months ago and a Baltimore County couple is still worried about who will pay for their repairs.

In Perry Hall, Michelle Muir and her husband are dealing with an explosion expense.

"Everything that has to be done to this car, we have to pay for," said Muir.

Muir said the cost to repair the damage to her 2002 Honda Accord is estimated to be close to more than a thousand dollars.

A blown out back window has been replaced, so the car is drivable. Still, theres so much more to do.

"The sunroof, they said, was over $400. So, it's a total of close to $2,000 for window replacement," said Muir.

Muir said the damage was caused by the pipe explosion that happened in downtown Baltimore in June.

But now, two months later, the Muirs say theyre still waiting for Veolia, the company that owns the steam line, to pay for the damage done to the car.

She says the damage is caused by the pipe explosion in downtown Baltimore in June.

But now, two months later, the Muirs ares still waiting for Veolia, the company that owns the steamline, to pay for the damage done to the car.

"They say until, again, until they are found at fault, they are not going to pay for anything. And that's frustrating because we weren't at fault," said Muir.

The couple had gone downtown for a baseball game. They showed us pictures of their car covered in dirt and debris, with a dented hood, shattered back window and other broken windows. Its a car casualty situation for the couple when patience is running so low.

"Patience is ok, if we had full coverage on the car, we don't. So, basically, we're paying out of pocket," said Muir.

We reached out to a Veolia spokesperson who tells us, if its determined that Veolia is responsible for the cause of the steam pipe explosion, the company will pay for damages to cars.

See the original post:
Residents deal with costly expenses after Baltimore steam pipe explosion in June - Fox Baltimore

Chris Brunskill Ltd/Getty Images

The summer transfer window closed on Thursday for Premier League sides, and we can all breathe a sigh of relief that it's over, including the Chelsea powerbrokers.

The Blues ran the gauntlet this summer, waiting until deadline day to make some key signings. And even as the clock ticked down, we weren't sure they would get some deals over the line.

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte may not have signed all of his targets, but Chelsea have emerged with a squad that looks fresher than it did this time last season. Regardless of whether it's only marginally, the Premier League champions have been able to regenerate a dressing room that's needed change for some time.

But how well have Chelsea performed in the transfer market? Did they do a good enough job with the players they bought and sold? Join us as we grade the Blues' transfer window activity.

Grading Chelsea's most significant signings

Chelsea signed six players this summer, with two coming on deadline day. We've graded them below based on squad requirements and the overall business decision.

Willy Caballero

Fee: Free

Grade: A+

To grade Caballero so highly will undoubtedly raise eyebrows. He arguably has the lowest profile of all Chelsea's summer signings, andBlues fans aren't expecting to see much from him in the club's colours as the back-up toThibautCourtois.

Here's the thing, though: Caballero was brought in as the replacement for Asmir Begovic, who was sold to Bournemouth for 10 million. In so doing, Chelsea got a like-for-like replacement and made a significant profit.

It wasn't a move to get overly excited about, but in terms of the whole package, it was excellent business. Uncharacteristically for the Blues, the deal for Caballero was announced in early July, too.

Tiemoue Bakayoko

Fee: 40 million

Grade: B

Chelsea have signed potential with Bakayoko. His exploits in a Monaco shirt last season suggested he has a fine career ahead of him, but it was just one standout season from the 22-year-old. He still has a lot to achieve if his transfer is to be regarded as shrewd business.

Still, 40 million in this summer's market for a player we're expecting to be a regular does outline some transfer acumen from the Chelsea board. At a time when fees are escalating beyond all sense of logic, Chelsea signing an up-and-coming talent gives them a strong possibility to make a dividend on their investment either in future transfer windows or on the pitch, where it's hoped Bakayoko will excel.

The early signs are promising after his debut against Tottenham Hotspur.

Alvaro Morata

Fee: 58 million

Grade: A

Two games at Stamford Bridge have brought two goals and two assists for Morata. From a personal perspective, it's been a great start for the Spaniard.

Morata has done exactly what all strikers must when they arrive at a new clubhe's made a big impact, and with that, he already has the momentum to suggest he can replace Diego Costa's goal threat.

The 24-year-old is now Chelsea's record signing, with the 58 million paid to Real Madrid surpassing the 50 million Liverpool raked in on the sale of Fernando Torres to the Blues in 2011.

It took Torres 14 games to open his Chelsea account and a full 19 for him to tally the two goals Morata already has to his name. Those early days came to define Torres' Chelsea career, andMorata seems to have overcome any hoodoo immediately.

Antonio Rudiger

Fee: 29 million

Grade: B

By the same token that we've applauded Chelsea for the fee paid to Monaco for Bakayoko, the 29 million invested in Rudiger represents good business in this transfer window.

Transfer fees have spiralled out of control, with the huge figures we're seeing for the most talented players hiking up prices for those below them. Rudiger may not arrive with the same hype as a Virgil van Dijk, for instance, but he cost Chelsea a fraction of the price they would've been expected to pay for the Dutchman.

Rudiger is already showing himself to be a good squad player, and over the course of the season, his attributes will benefit the Blues. He fits into the system Conte likes to play, meaning that, regardless of names and profile, he's an ideal signing.

Danny Drinkwater

Fee: 35 million

Grade: B

Talk about leaving things lateChelsea had to wait until a couple of hours after the transfer window had closed before they announced the capture of Drinkwater. They left fans waiting until the early hours to confirm a deal that had been rolling on for weeks.

It all seemed to be about the price, with the Blues hierarchy haggling with Leicester City, as reported by theTelegraph'sJohn Percy in the days leading up to deadline day. By hook or by crook, they got their man, though, and Conte's midfield looks stronger for it.

Drinkwater adds Premier League and Champions League experience and bolsters the homegrown quota in the Stamford Bridge dressing room. He's not a marquee signing, but he's certainly one of substance.

The only negative here is the fee, with the Blues paying much more than their initial valuation of the former Manchester United man.

Davide Zappacosta

Fee: 23 million

Grade: C

There will be a Costa in the Chelsea squad this season after all. Well, sort of, with Italian Zappacosta's surname giving us a hint of rock'n'roll royalty blended with Chelsea's bad boy frontman who remains in exile.

Zappacosta's signing was a big surprise, with his name only being linked with the Blues on transfer deadline day following their failure to land Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who signed for Liverpool. Chelsea fans won't be feeling too confident with his signing as he plans to compete at wing-back, but remember last season's deadline-day business?

Marcos Alonso came in under the radar, seemingly a move from left field that stunned many. And now look at him; the Spaniard has become an essential part of Conte's side, adding something to defence and attack.

Zappacosta has a reputation for being strong in attack and is a fine crosser of the ball. With Morata getting on the end of his crosses, he may well prove a fine asset himself.

We've given Zappacosta's signing a C grade, as it comes with a sense of the unknown and being knee-jerk. With nothing linking him to Chelsea until all else failed, he smacks of being a last resort.

But let's hope he can have an impact in the same way Alonso did.

Grading Chelsea's most significant departures

More players left Chelsea than came in this summer, but that isn't necessarily a negative thing. The Blues were able to offload some ageing stars and made good money from them in the process. We're only grading the most significant permanent transfers here, so this does not include the ever-growing loan army.

John Terry

Fee: Free

Grade: A+

All good things come to an end, and this summer Chelsea fans discovered that when Terry departed for Aston Villa on a free transfer. It's a sad moment when legends eventually have to leave, but Terry's departure should've come much earlier than it did.

There isn't a bigger hero in west London than the former Blues captain, yet his presence at Stamford Bridge held Chelsea back at times in recent seasons. It meant managers could only play one way with him at the back, so when he was injured in the early part of 2016/17, it was the ideal time for Conte to change things around.

The manager did, and it revolutionised the way his team performed. It made Chelsea Premier League champions and ended Terry's Blues career in the process.

Nemanja Matic

Fee: 40 million

Grade: A

Forget that Matic has joined Manchester United, a direct rival of Chelsea. The point with this transfer and why we've given it an A grade is simple economics. Chelsea sold a 29-year-old for 40 million; they made a 19 million profit on a player in decline.

Matic moving to United is a short-term answer to the club's midfield problems. But with the overall fee Chelsea were paid for him effectively bringing in Bakayoko from Monaco, it has provided a long-term solution to theirs.

We don't buy the notion that Matic will win United the title this season, either. Before he was sold, Matic was among the most criticised players at Chelsea for good reason; the Serb was seen as a weak link, with his presence in midfield overshadowed by team-mate N'Golo Kante in a defensive sense, while he failed to matchCesc Fabregas' effectiveness going forward.

The Matic Chelsea signed in January 2014 was a different player to the one United paid 40 million for. In the long term, Chelsea will be happy with the business they did here.

Nathan Ake

Fee: 20 million

Grade: B

It's a shame Ake has been sold, as he has more than hinted at having a bright future in the Premier League. But like an old gun-slinging western town from a Sergio Leone movie, Stamford Bridge isn't big enough for two outlaws or, in this case, a pair of up-and-coming defenders.

Ake's sale to Bournemouth for a healthy 20 million has meant Andreas Christensen has taken his spot in the Chelsea squad after returning from loan. So, with the addition of Rudiger, the Blues now have a solid-looking setup at the back that also includes David Luiz, Cesar Azpilicueta and Gary Cahill.

Without Christensen, it would have been disappointing for Ake to have been sold. But Chelsea seem to be putting their faith in the Dane, and that meant Ake was pushed out. And that's footballChelsea can't hoard every talented young player.

Bertrand Traore

Fee: 8.8 million

Grade: D

With Diego Costa's problems this summer and Chelsea also needing reinforcements in their attacking-midfield options, losing Traore was a disappointment.

Is he talented enough to be starting every week at Stamford Bridge? No. But that's not the point with Traore. His season on loan with Ajax proved he could play a supporting role for the Blues, earning more experience with the view to eventually becoming a regular.

He is just 21, and his age alone tells us he has so much more time to develop his game. Allowing him to join Lyon for an initial 8.8 million, regardless of buy-back clauses, is short-sighted from Chelsea at a time when they don't boast hordes of attacking stars.

Nathaniel Chalobah

Fee: 5 million

Grade: D

While Traore still has some developing to do, Chalobah was arguably ready for first-team football at Chelsea. Clearly, the player himself believed that and forced through his move to Watford.

Had the Blues signed a world-class player to take his place in the squad, Chalobah's sale wouldn't grate so much. The fact is they haven'talthough Drinkwater's capture was astute enough to hint at the Blues being a strong midfield unit.

Chalobah left at the wrong timethe time when Chelsea needed him most, as they faced the beginning stages of 2017/18 with just three central midfielders, and one of them was Cesc Fabregas, who is far from adept when it comes to competing physically.

Chelsea should've done more to keep Chalobah, as he has everything that hints at him being a star of the future. He's still young and has his career ahead of him.

Dominic Solanke

Fee: TBC by tribunal

Grade: B

How do you grade Solanke's move to Liverpool this summer? Do we applaud Chelsea for making a stand in refusing to give a young player a bumper contract when he'd made just one senior appearance? Or do we side with Solanke and suggest the Blues should've shown more faith in one of England's best prospects?

Continue reading here:
Grading Chelsea's Transfer Window Activity - Bleacher Report

Wilmington, NC (WWAY) More eyes and ears will help keep an eye on downtown Wilmington.

After nearly two year of planning, and several months afterWilmington City Council approved a new downtown Municipal Service District, new programs were unveiled to help grow the downtown area.

The MSD programs are being directed by Wilmington Downtown Incorporated (WDI).

One new service is an Ambassador team, which consists of a group of seven people. You will see them wearing bright orange shirts around downtown. They will walk around to give directions and referrals, escort workers, visitors, or residents to specific destinations, identify street light outages, address graffiti. According to a news release, the will provide a safety and security presence, along with additional cleaning for the area.

WDI contracted with Allied Universal to hire and manage the new Ambassador team and all members are certified through the North Carolina Private Protection Service Board.

The Ambassadors work Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The Ambassadors can be reached by phone or text during operating hours at (910) 524.3600. They can also be found on the web at http://www.downtownambassador.com.

In addition to the Ambassador program, WDI also announced two new matching grant programs to help spur investment.

The Faade Improvement Grant program is designed to help renovate buildings and storefronts. Funds can be used for a range of improvements such as window repair or replacement, exterior painting, awnings, signs, lights and other similar work to the front of a building. The grant will award up to $2,500 of the total cost of the project on a matching basis. Funds will be awarded on a first come-first served basis and money is available for up to six projects.

The Landscaping Grant program is designed to encourage new planting areas to buffer or improve parking lots or vacant properties. This grant will provide up to $1,500 on a matching basis for irrigation, plants, fencing or other similar upgrades. Funds will also be awarded on a first come-first served basis and money is available to two projects.

Complete information and an application form for both the Faade Improvement Grant and the Landscaping Grant programs are available. Call the WDI office at (910) 763.7349 or visit http://www.wilmingtondowntown.com/msd.

The MSD has additional programs in the planning phase.

One project is examining physical enhancements with an emphasis on improving pedestrian safety and protecting the urban tree canopy. Another effort is underway to bolster marketing to better connect with area residents, workers, customers and visitors. WDI expects to announce additional MSD services in the coming months.

The programs announced today reflect the priorities of Downtown property owners, businesses and residents, said WDI Chair Tom Davis. The Ambassadors will be a resource and a re-assuring presence for people throughout the central business district and the new matching grant programs are designed to spur additional investment that can help property owners and small businesses within the MSD area, he said.

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New programs, including Ambassador team, launched in downtown Wilmington - WWAY NewsChannel 3

The Alexis Sanchez saga twisted and turned until it ultimately lost itself in the mess that is Arsenal Football Club in the transfer market.

The Chilean was on the brink of making the switch to Manchester City, where he would reunite with Pep Guardiola, play wonderful football and compete for major honours. All that needed to happen was Arsenal signing a replacement and thered be nothing in his way.

Whether it was a token effort or a genuine one, Arsenal tried to sign Monacos Thomas Lemar. A 92m offer was made. The bid was accepted. Then, when things seemed to be going along nicely, the deal came to an abrupt end. Arsenal didnt have enough time to complete the deal. Other reports suggested Lemar didnt want to join Arsenal. With just a couple of hours left in the window, Lemar wasnt joining Arsenal and, as a result, Alexis wasnt joining City.

The player will have been left understandably furious by the developments. Likewise, the fans of both clubs would be bemused and would like to know just who was responsible for the whole mess.

Its tempting to say this is entirely down to Arsenals own incompetence. Arsenal made the late decision to sell Alexis and gave themselves little time to find a replacement. With such limited time, it ended up being a case of Lemar or nothing. This was made all the more risky by Arsenal not even knowing if Lemar wanted to join them or not.

Arsenal may have wanted Alexis to stay but they absolutely must have been aware of the players desire to leave. A sensible club would scout out possibly replacements just in case, and ensure some groundwork was laid to make a quick signing. Arsenal didnt have to wait until the last minute to make that Lemar bid. Nor did they have to ignore the likes of Riyad Mahrez or Julian Draxler the whole time. Had the Lemar bid failed, say, three weeks ago, Arsenal would have had enough time to pursue other options.

On the other hand, Arsenal will rightfully point out that Citys plot to leave a bid right until the end of the window did them no favours. City would have known that Arsenal would want to sign a replacement its a fairly common practice in the transfer window yet gave Arsenal little time in which to do it. Had they made a serious offer last month, they would have gotten their man.

Theres another layer to all this: the year remaining on Alexis contract.

Alexis isnt a priority signing for City, which might explain why they left it so late. They knew full well that if they couldnt sign Alexis this summer, they could sign him for free next year. For them, this could have been a case of putting Arsenal in the most difficult position possible. Either they signed the player this window, leaving Arsenal little time to find a replacement, or they sign him for free next summer without giving Arsenal any money to buy a replacement with.

Its all conjecture, of course, but Arsenal are undoubtedly in a more awkward place than City are. Arsenal cannot complain if Alexis turns out to be disruptive, because it was their reluctance to sell that dragged the saga out for so long. We had our chance to get rid of the guy and didnt take it.

Ultimately, it may all work out for the best. Still, theres no denying that this whole could have been resolved much sooner and much more efficiently than it has been.

Read more:
Arsenal or Manchester City: Who is to blame over the Alexis debacle? - Daily Cannon (satire) (blog)

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Arsenal are preparing for a potential exodus of players in the finals days of the transfer window, with the club finalising the 7 million departure of Kieran Gibbs to Watford and prepared to sell Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Shkodran Mustafi and Lucas Perez.

Major incoming signing are now unlikely but a combination of Oxlade-Chamberlains ongoing refusal to accept a huge new contract offer of 180,000-a-week and Wengers desire to reduce his squad has meant that there will still be significant transfer activity at Arsenal between now and Thursday.

Oxlade-Chamberlains participation against Liverpool today is in doubt following his failure to agree a new contract and, unlike their stance with Alexis Sanchez, Arsenals attitude is that they are ready to sell rather than potentially lose him for nothing next year if the valuation is met. Chelsea and Liverpool are interested and preparing to bid but, as of Saturday morning, Arsenal had not received the expected 35 million offer.

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Arsenal prepare for player exodus in finals days of transfer window - will Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain be one of them? - Telegraph.co.uk