Video shot/edited by Jennifer Hahn.

Samsung revamped one of its 2016 hybrids while simultaneously creating a challenger to Microsoft's Surface family. Last year's Galaxy TabPro S was a thin-and-light tablet powered by a Skylake Core M processor and featuring an OLED display. While stunning, the OLED display raised questions about the longevity of the device, and the tablet itself was lacking in connectivity options.

The new Galaxy Book tries to fix some of that while keeping the good parts intact: it's a slim Windows tablet, accompanied by a folio keyboard case and S Pen stylus, that's vying to replace your regular laptop by enticing you with Ultrabook-grade internals. The Galaxy Book comes in 10- and 12-inch models,but both are very different, not just in their screen size, but in internal quality as well. While Samsung managed to right some of the wrongs of the TabPro S, it's hard to make a case for the Galaxy Book replacing your everyday work device.

As the next iteration of the TabPro S, the Galaxy Book's kicker is its 12-inch, 21601400 Super AMOLED display. It produces highly saturated colors and rich blacks that make photo and video viewing (or editing) a vibrant experience. But since it is an OLED panel, I ran into the same issues that Ars' Peter Bright did while reviewing the TabPro S: the pixels in OLED panels degrade over time. Areas of the screen that are brightly lit grow dimmer more quickly than areas of the screen that stay dark.

This degradation is much faster and more uneven than the gradual backlight dimming of LCD screens. Samsung tries to slow that process as much as possible with the use of screensavers and screen-dimming software. You can turn offthe screensaver completely, but, just like withthe TabPro S, there's no straightforward way to stop the display from dimming after about 10 minutes of inactivity.

Samsung included this feature for good reason: similar to the Tab Pro S, screen-dimming will help reduce the effects of the pixel degradation. Since the Galaxy Book is positioned as a productivity two-in-one, users will be tapping, typing, and writing with the device, presumably for hours on end. Screen dimming will likely increase the longevity of the device overall, even if it was an annoying obstacle during our testing.

The bezels surrounding the display are a bit wide (the biggest measuring about .75-inches), but the bezel that sits at the top of the tablet in laptop mode holds the front-facing 5MP camera. Mirroring its placement on the back of the tablet is the 13MP rear camera. This isn't complemented by a cutout on the keyboard cast like the TabPro S's rear camera had. Instead, theplastic flap covering the camera is narrower than the other two sections of the case's back, so you can simply fold it down to reveal the camera and not much else. Still, having the cutout is more convenient because you don't have an extra step to complete before taking a photo.

Being a tablet, the Galaxy Book doesn't have many ports on its edges. Both of the short sides sport speaker grills, the right side holds the two USB Type-C ports and a headphone jack, and the opposite side holds a microSD card slot. The power and volume buttons are at the top edge of the device for easy access when in laptop mode. I appreciate that Samsung added an additional USB Type-C port since the TabPro S only had one, and I really appreciate that you can charge the device through either of those ports.That being said, I would have been elatedif some adaptors like USB Type-C to Type A were included in the box as well.

Otherwise, the Galaxy Book is your typical metal slab-like tablet. Our review model, the 12-inch Galaxy Book, is better positioned for work and serious productivity, not only thanks to its size but also its internals. Comparatively, the10-inch device requires compromising at every corner: it has a 10-inch TFT 19201080 display, Core m3 processor, 4GB of RAM, either 64 or 128GB of storage (but it does have the microSD card slot, so you can expand that to 256GB), no rear-facing camera, and no LTE option. Both the 10- and 12-inch models conveniently have onboard GPS and GLONASS, so you're not forced into the LTE option if you want a GPS on the tablet. The 10-inch Galaxy Book starts at $629, which is much lower than the $1,129 starting price of the 12-inch model (our model comes in at $1,329).

Samsung's Galaxy Book with keyboard cover and S Pen.

Valentina Palladino

Full-sized keyboard.

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The adhesive sleeve for the S Pen sticks to the bottom of the keyboard deck.

Valentina Palladino

Five magnetic connecting nodes.

Valentina Palladino

Keys are nicely sized and have good travel.

Valentina Palladino

Two USB Type C ports.

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Power and volume buttons.

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Connecting nodes on the device.

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One of the viewing angles provided with the keyboard case.

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OLED screen at 200-nit brightness.

OLED screen when automatically dimmed.

The 12-inch Galaxy Book starts at $1,129.

Valentina Palladino

The included keyboard case wraps around the entire Galaxy Book slab. Unlike the TabPro S, which had two viewing angles using the back magnetic flap of the case, the Galaxy Book has four. I typically kept mine on the second-highest angle, as that and the highest position are best forbasic work like Web browsing and typing. I didn't use the second-lowestposition much at all, but it's likely better for using the S Pen instead of the trackpad to navigate.I love taking notes, so the S Pen mostly came in handy with the Galaxy Book in tablet mode. Artists may also like the lowest mode thatleans the tablet back so much that it's nearly flat, using only the smallest flap (the one covering the rear camera) for support.

The absence of a kickstand makes the Galaxy Book look and feel much more like a tablet than a two-in-one. The keyboard case provides a fairly stable stand for the slab, even whileworking with the device on your lap. However, it's not nearly as secure as a device with a kickstand would be, like HP's updated Spectre x2or the newly announced Surface Pro devices.

The Galaxy Book isn't as stable as a regular laptop, either.You need stability for any two-in-one to succeed on a fundamental level, and devices with built-in kickstands (particularly those you can adjust to sit at different viewing angles) are arguably better suited for stability in unstable environments. The flap of the keyboard case sticks nicely to the back of the Galaxy Book, but just fiddling with it to adjust the viewing angle requires attention to make sure it's completely secure at the angleyou want. If you misalign the magnets, the tablet will fall backward.

The island-layout, full-sized keyboard is one of the better tablet keyboards I've used. There's decent travel between the keys, and Samsung didn't misplace or leave out any crucial keys. The Backspace key is slightly smaller than normal, but not small enough to impact my typing speed or cause many mistakes. I managed manyhours of typing on this device with no fatigue or discomfort. The trackpad is just as pleasant to use with its smooth-to-the-touch feel and gesture support. It's a Precision Touchpad, supporting the full range of built-in Windows touch gestures.

The included S Pen is similar to what's included in Samsung's Chromebook Pro. However, the Galaxy Book doesn't have a built-in slot to keep the pen close. Instead, the box includes an adhesive sleeve you can attach to an indentation on the keyboard case. The sleeve places the pen at the left side of the keyboard at all times. The pen's 0.7mm tip is precise and easy to use to write, sketch, or highlight, and neither the S Pen nor keyboard require charging, so younever have to worry about battery life with either of these accessories. The pen's latency was barely noticeable, but it wasn't exactly the same as the elevated writing experience found on the Chromebook Pro.

One of my favorite features of theTab S3is Samsung's Air Command, and that's also ready to go on the Galaxy Book. With the pen tip close to the display, you can bring up the Air Command menu by pressing the singular side button on the S Pen. By default, fiveapps pop up, letting you quickly grab a screenshot, write notes, select parts of the screen, and more. I will say that the side button is awkwardly placed, at least for me and how I hold a pen naturally. While taking notes and gripping the pen normally, I often accidentally clicked the side button

Air Command makes using the S Pen much easier in situations whereyou wouldn't necessarily think to use a stylus. There are plenty of shortcuts for Windows users already, but makingsome important ones (like taking a scribble-ready screenshot) readily accessible in a pen-only menu encourages users to pick up the S Pen more often. I only wish you could customize the app shortcuts in Air Command like you can on the Tab S3 Android tablet. On this Windows device, you have to make dowith just the five apps programmed into Air Command: create note, view all notes, smart select, screen write, and show window.

Samsungdoesn't add muchbloatware to the Galaxy Book, but the company hopes users will take advantage of Samsung Flow. Flow is Samsung's software for sharing information, including notifications, photos, and documents, between different Samsung devices that are connected via Bluetooth. If you have a Samsung smartphone, you can unlock the Galaxy Book by using your fingerprint on the smartphone's reader. You can also share documents easily between the two devices and receive smartphone notifications on the two-in-one.

Flow certainly makes life easier for those with many Samsung devices. Flow also provides the only biometric security features for the Galaxy Book. The Book doesn't have an IR camera or an onboard fingerprint sensor, so the only way you'll get around usinga password or PIN will be by using your fingerprint to unlock Flow on a Galaxy smartphone. I'm glad there's some form of biometric security available for the Galaxy Book, but I'm disappointed at the lack of IR cameranumerous times, I flipped open the Galaxy Book from its keyboard case and expected the camera to recognize my face and unlock my device.

Our review model of the Galaxy Book is powered by a dual-core Core i5-7200U processor, Intel HD 620 graphics, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of onboard storage. I like that Samsung added an 8GB of RAM optionthe 4GB on the TabPro S just wasn't enoughbut you'll still pay premium for it. The Galaxy Bookperformed just as well as similar Kaby Lake systems inall of our benchmark tests, and it performed a little better than Skylake devices like Microsoft's Surface Pro 4. However, it did get noticeably warm with consistent use.

We had to account for the Galaxy Book's screen-dimming feature before running our battery tests by runningan app that moves the cursor periodically to simulate activity and prevent the screen from dimming. Samsung estimates the Galaxy Book will last around 11 hours on a single charge, but our tests didn't even get close to that.The Galaxy Book lasted an average of 411 minutes on our default battery test, or just under seven hours. Manytwo-in-ones we've tested last anywhere between 600 to 900 minutes on this test, but the Galaxy Book performed most like Apple's 9.7-inch iPad Pro (which still lasted over an hour moreon the same test). The Galaxy Book did slightly better on our graphics test, lasting 241minutes, or about fourhours. It placed ahead of devices like the Dell XPS 15, the HP Spectre 13, and the 13-inch MacBook Pro with TouchBar.

Samsung succeeded in updating the TabPro S with the Galaxy Book. Adding 4GB of RAM, an extra USB Type-C port, and an LTE option bring the slab into the modern age, at the very least. The keyboard cover and S Pen are particularly good because they're included (similar accessories are extra when you buy a Surface Pro). The typing experience is much better than other hybrid keyboards, and the S Penis quite useful when paired with Samsung's Air Command software. Our model of theGalaxy Book was a capable machinethat performed just as well as other devices with U-series processors, two-in-ones or not.

But just because the Galaxy Book is a better TabPro S doesn't mean it's an ideal hybrid. I have yet to try a slab-folio keyboard combo that I would feel comfortable replacing my laptop with, and the Galaxy Book doesn't change that. While it is decently stable on your lap, itsoverall design simply isn't suited for my lifestyle as a primary PC. This type of device is best suited for hyper-mobile usersas in those who are constantly running around and need a lightweight device that packs plenty of power. Those users also value the laptop experience and the tablet experience equally. I need a laptop more than a tablet most of the time, so the Galaxy Book won't replace my current PC any time soon.

I also take issue with the OLED display and the price. The issues we had with the TabPro S concerning its OLED display haven't been quelled with the Galaxy Book, but I didn't expect them to be. Samsung uses OLED panels in many of its devices, and we'll probably have to make do with screensavers and screen dimming on its tablets for the foreseeable futureor at least untilthe longevity of OLED panels is aswonderful as the panels themselves.

In terms of price, you'll spend at least $1,329 for a Galaxy Book with this much power. Butyou still sacrifice a lot despite the high price tag, particularly with the lack of any Windows Hello support and the disappointing battery life. I'd hold off on the Galaxy Book for now and wait to see how new, similar devices perform, including the updated HP Spectre x2, which starts at $999, and the new line of updated Surface Pros, which start at $799.

Listing image by Valentina Palladino

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Samsung Galaxy Book review: A better TabPro S, but not a laptop replacement - Ars Technica

By LARRY C. BOWERS larry.bowers@clevelandbanner.com

Clevelands Historic Preservation Commission met Tuesday evening at the municipal building, approving two requests submitted by Historic District residents.

The two reviews were fairly routine, one for a roof replacement, and the second for a replacement to a backyard fence and the addition of a storage building.

In another issue, not on the meeting agenda, commission members expressed appreciation to city staff members Bryan Turner and Peggy Hathcock for the provision of a guideline of preservation issues which frequently are approved by city staff.

These are issues of repair, replacement, upgrades, and additions to homes and structures in the citys Historic District. The members feel the appendix will be helpful in reviewing various needs of Historic District residents, and the knowledge they are not required to decide on every mundane issue.

Requests for most projects come to the staff before being forwarded to the commission. The roof replacement approved Tuesday could be one of these requests, as long as the material was the same as that which previously existed on the structure. Many requests can be readily approved by staff members.

These are actions which are generally maintenance in nature, and do not require a panel discussion.

In Tuesdays voting action, the commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for the residence of George and Charlotte Thorogood at 1843 North Ocoee St. N.W. for a roof replacement.

They also signed off on a certificate of appropriateness for Dustin and Raven Tommey at 223 18th Street N.W.

The Tommeys are replacing a backyard fence which is well to the rear of the residential property. They are also planning the addition of a 9-by-13 foot storage building, which will be located off from the central area of the property.

The Tommeys provided an example of a unique storage building which they planned to build, and the potential design was praised by commission members.

The list provided to the commission of projects which could be considered minor included:

Masonry: Painting of previously painted surfaces; repointing using mortar to match the original; and removal of paint using chemical removal agents.

Wood: Painting of previously painted surfaces; repair or replacement with wood to match the original; and removal of paint using a heat gun, scraping or chemical removal agent.

Porches or porch components: Painting of previously painted spindles, columns, balusters and decorative detailing; repair or placement in-kind of wood elements such as columns, spindles, balusters, friezes, and decorative detailing; repair or replacement of features using wood epoxies or other appropriate imitative materials to match the original; and installation of screen panels which have minimal framing and are placed behind the porch columns or railings.

Entrances: Painting of previously painted and surrounds; repair or replacement of in-kind wood elements such as door panels, transom bars, and surrounds; and repair or replacement of glass and transoms.

Windows: Painting of previously painted surfaces, repair or replacement of in-kind wood elements such as sills, sash units and window surrounds; repair or replacement of glass; and addition of storm windows which meet design standards such as full-view design or one-over-one design with appropriate meeting rails.

Decorative features: Painting of previously painted wood trim and decorative detailing; repair or replacement of in-kind of wood elements such as vergeboard, brackets, rafters, and singles; and repair or replacement of features using wood epoxies or other appropriate imitative materials to match the original.

Roofs: Repair or replacement of existing asphalt, gravel and tar, or similar non-historic roof materials.

Light fixtures: Repair or replacement of in-kind of bulbs, wiring, globes, and shades.

Signs: Repair and painting of an existing sign; replacement of an existing sign with a new sign to match; and repair or replacement in-kind of sign lighting to match the original.

Fences: Installation of wood picket fences which follows the manual guidelines; and installation of wood privacy fences which follow the guidelines.

Solar collectors/satellite dishes: Installation of solar collectors and satellite dishes as rear facades or freestanding in rear yards which are not readily visible from the street.

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Historic Preservation Commission approves two residential requests - Cleveland Daily Banner

Whether your motivation is reducing home energy expenses, creating a more earth-conscious lifestyle or both, there are numerous ways you can make a significant impact on your home's energy efficiency.

Windows Faulty seals and cracks are responsible for as much as 20 percent of air infiltration into or out of the home, according to U.S. Department of Energy data. Windows are a major culprit for these types of leaks.

If a complete window replacement is out of your budget, there are still numerous ways you can improve the energy efficiency of existing windows. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that adding storm windows can reduce the amount of heat lost through windows by as much as 25-50 percent. Caulking and adding weather stripping around windows can also make a noticeable difference, as can window coverings such as blinds or drapes that minimize the transfer of heat and cold through window panes.

If you add new windows, there are several variables to consider. Generally, the goal is to optimize heat gain during colder months and reduce heat gain in the summer. Energy performance ratings can help you understand how particular windows transfer heat and light so you can make the best choices for your home's location, including the climate and orientation to the sun.

Doors Like windows, doors, and especially their perimeters, are a common source of lost energy. Poor insulation due to faulty installation or simply wear over time can contribute to energy loss. Aside from ensuring a properly installed, insulated and sealed doorway, the door itself can also make a difference when it comes to energy efficiency. For example, foam insulated entry doors offer greater energy conservation than wooden alternatives. Also remember that proper sealing and installation applies to all access points, including garage doors. For doors with large glass panes, such as patio doors, look for options that include a thermal break and multiple layers of glass to reduce energy transfer.

Fifth Wall (a.k.a., the Ceiling) An often overlooked home element, but one homeowners and interior designers are increasingly turning attention to, is the ceiling, affectionately dubbed the "fifth wall." Not only does this surface offer a blank slate for introducing new style to a room, it's also an ideal space to integrate energy-efficient features such as skylights.

"Skylights bring much more than natural light into a space. They give occupants the feeling of being outdoors with elements like a sky view, gentle breezes and the smell of fresh air," said Ross Vandermark, national product manager for Velux America.

Skylights engage all of the senses while providing balanced, natural light that reduces reliance on powered light and ventilation fixtures. In addition, skylights can work in concert with vertical windows to create the "chimney effect" where cool, fresh air enters through vertical windows and warm, stale air escapes from the skylights, cooling your home without using electricity. Some models like the Velux No Leak Solar Powered Fresh Air skylights, which along with installation costs are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit, are powered by solar energy, making them even more efficient. Additional features can further enhance the energy-saving benefits of installing skylights. For example, for added flare and light control, homeowners can add blinds to skylights, choosing from more than 100 colors and styles. Many models also offer remote control operation for convenience in raising and lowering the blinds and even opening skylights to let in fresh air.

Learn more about making the fifth wall part of your energy-saving plan at whyskylights.com.

HVAC System Climate control accounts for as much as half of the average home's annual energy costs, so while it's a behind-the-scenes home feature, it's an important one.

An outdated heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, or a system that isn't big enough or strong enough for your home's footprint, will draw more energy than necessary to maintain a desirable temperature. Regular service can help keep systems operating smoothly, but eventually all HVAC systems need replacing.

A consultation with a certified technician can help you determine the right system for your home, as well as supplemental heating and cooling options like attic fans that can reduce your overall energy reliance.

Other Vulnerabilities Keep in mind that leaks and cracks represent a substantial volume of lost energy, and even after windows and doors are sealed there are still plenty of places for air leaks to occur. Common problem spots include attics and crawl spaces, as well as fireplaces and ductwork or ventilation systems. Eliminate drafts and add insulation to reduce energy loss through these sources.

Optimize Energy Usage If you're uncertain about where improvements may be necessary to increase your home's energy efficiency, an energy audit is a good place to start. Learn more about how to evaluate your home, including which assessments you can tackle alone and what areas may require expert advice, at energy.gov.

Michael French mfrench@familyfeatures.com 1-888-824-3337 editors.familyfeatures.com

About Family Features Editorial SyndicateEstablished in 1974, Family Features is a leading provider of free food and lifestyle content for print and online publications. Our articles, photos, videos and web content solutions save you time, money and help create advertising opportunities. Registration is fast and free with absolutely no obligation. Visit editors.familyfeatures.com for more information.

To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ease-up-on-energy-consumption-300463227.html

SOURCE Family Features Editorial Syndicate

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Ease Up on Energy Consumption - PR Newswire (press release)

Deutsche Welle

The summer transfer window 2017 Deutsche Welle "Watford want [Walter] Mazzarri's replacement to play attacking football and to speak English, two of the main criticisms of Mazzarri," an article published in Tuesday's edition of the paper reported. it went on to say that Schmidt "fulfils both of ... and more »

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The summer transfer window 2017 - Deutsche Welle

Locations: 8900 Wicker Ave., St. John; 9900 191st St., Mokena, Ill.

Brett Davis, retail sales manager for Schillings, explains that the Best of the Region award helps the staff to raise their expectations higher.

Every year, we set a bar with our goals, Davis says. When we are recognized for our excellence, it makes us want to try harder, to see if we can improve even more.

Quality brands such as Andersen, Silver Line, Therma Tru, and Velux provide customers the knowledge that they are buying the best door and window products available.

Knowledgeable staff is another important asset to the business, according to Davis.

Marketing director John White explains that Schillings places its emphasis on retaining customers and having them return for all of their home improvement needs. The combination of great prices and brands, and thorough product knowledge contributes to Schillings Best of the Region win.

Locations: 3488 Eagle Nest Drive, Crete, Ill.; 1877 E. Summit St., Crown Point

Phone: 708-668-4010 (Crete), 219-306-4702 (Crown Point)

Location: 235 Ridge Road, Munster

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Best Door & Window Replacement - nwitimes.com

NORWALK Window replacement will begin at West Rocks Middle School this summer as part of a number of major overhauls to Norwalk Public Schools over the next several years.

West Rocks phase one will be worked on this summer, said Michael Barbis, chairman of the Norwalk Board of Education Facilities Committee. Theyre doing half of windows this year and half of them next year. The windows were almost falling out. In the facilities study that was identified as the single-largest thing that needed attention at that building.

The Common Council allocated nearly $1.03 million in Norwalks 2017-18 capital budget for the first phase of the door-and-window replacement at the 61-year-old building at 81 West Rocks Road.

Were going to have windows that are not that old single-pane glass where you dont have that much protection from the elements, said West Rocks Principal Lynne Moore. Its really going to be an enhancement to the building.

Moore said window replacement on the front of the building will begin June 15 and be done by the start of school this fall. Windows on the Aiken Street side will be replaced in summer 2018.

Major construction on two other Norwalk schools is expected to be start by early 2019.

In April, the council approved $41.9 million in capital funding to build a new South Norwalk School next to the former Nathaniel Ely School site, which Columbus Magnet School will move into, and a $43.4 million to reshape Ponus Ridge Middle School into a pre-K through 8 STEM-themed magnet school.

The council advanced all three projects this month by authorizing the filing of grant applications for state reimbursement. June 30 is the deadline to apply for reimbursement, which Barbis anticipates will cover 32 percent of the construction costs.

The city will file the grant applications and learn early next year whether the reimbursement has been approved.

The State Bond Commission meets and votes in January, Barbis said. They have to review, they have to approve it. They bond it and then we get notified that its been approved by the state and then we move forward. In the meantime, we will put this out to an architect.

Officials would like to see construction start on the new South Norwalk school and new Ponus Ridge Magnet School by 2018 but that may not happen until early 2019, according to Barbis.

The goal is to have the classrooms up and running by September 2020 but that would be very ambitious, Barbis said.

The South Norwalk and Ponus Ridge Middle School projects are part of the school boards $172.8 million five-year capital plan.

Kevin Schultz contributed to this story.

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Improvements to begin with window replacement at West Rocks Middle School - Thehour.com

ASHTABULA A $108,000 window replacement project is in the works at Kent State University Ashtabula, school officials said.

Workers are replacing all of the exterior windows on the first and second floors of C-Wing in Main Hall,said Dave Schultz, director of business affairs and operations.

The project is slated for completion by June 30, he said.

"The current C-Wing windows are the original windows that were installed when Main Hall was built in 1966," Schultz said. "They will be replaced with new, high-efficiency windows, which will aesthetically blend with the windows installed during the recent A-Wing and Commons renovations."

The new windows are being installed in preparation for the renovation of C-Wing next summer, he said.

During the window replacement, the school will close the Main Hall South Lot the parking lot near the gymnasium, school officials said.

Last summer, the campus was the site of a$1.8 million project, which included a new sign and main entrance facing Lake Road West. The project also included resurfacing the east-side parking lot and adding more green space to campus.

With the addition of the Robert S. Morrison Health and Science building on the west side of the campus, college officials decided it was time to update the entrance.

Parking lots forboth the east and west sides of campus now extend from the new driveway, bringing students and visitors to the center of the campus before branching off to the various buildings.

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New windows installed in C-Wing at KSU Ashtabula - The Star Beacon

Like many young couples Lia and Warren Raum shared a dream of owning a beautiful home in a desirable part of town. But the Raums dream was complicated by the fact that their town was New York City, and their neighborhood of choice was the citys exclusive Upper East Side. In 1998, the couple bought a historic five-story brownstone fully aware that the only way they could afford to make it their home was to share it with others as a temporary home.

After we were married we bounced around a bit, initially living in Lias studio and my apartment, but we knew that we wanted to buy a townhouse, recalled Warren, a financial investment consultant who grew up in Connecticut. When we bought this place, our first daughter, Morgan, was nine months old. At first we lived on the third floor and began restoring the house. As the work progressed, we moved to different floors and rented the finished floors.

For the first five years, Lia handled most of the day-to-day managerial and housekeeping tasks for the 6,500-square-foot house herself, with Warren pitching in as much as he could. In the beginning, we had no administrative help whatsoever, and very little housekeeping help. The gals that helped watch our daughters also did a little housekeeping, she remembered. In 2004 we promoted our babysitter, a college student from North Carolina, to become our first part-time office assistant. Now our staff consists of a house manager who is responsible for the smooth daily operation and a housekeeper who comes in every day and stays as needed.

When the Raums had time to research their home, they learned that it was one of four rowhouses on the block designed by New York architect John Sexton in the Italianate style. It was built at 130 E. 62nd Street, between Park and Lexington avenues, in 1871, hence the dwellings name: The 1871 House.

We learned that it was originally part of some wealthy familys estate. Around the Great Depression, the house was sold and divided into rental units, explained Lia, a native New Yorker. When we bought it, it had been owned by the same family for about 50 years. Fortunately, it was structurally sound and mostly needed cosmetic workplastering, painting, updating bathrooms and kitchens. Much of the flooring is original, and we had it refinished. Whatever is not original is repurposed antique flooring, such as the wide-plank oak flooring in the foyer which came from a deserted North Carolina tobacco factory and we installed in 2005.

In 2005 the Raums undertook another major restoration projectthe replacement of 23 windows in the front and street side of the house. Since the 1871 House is in the Upper East Side Historic District, one of NYCs largest landmark districts, the Raums had to apply for a permit to proceed with the window replacement. Although their request was approved, Lia noted that she and Warren received no grant or tax credit for the $60,000 project but said they consider it a necessary investment in their historic home. The new divided-light Landmark-approved windows look much like the original wood windows and provide triple glass insulation and superior sound-reduction qualities, important factors when youre providing lodging in the middle of Manhattan, smiled Lia.

One of the most satisfying tasks that Lia has undertaken for the past 20 years is decorating and furnishing the 1871 Houses seven apartment-style units, which range from a studio with kitchenette to a three-bedroom suite. Every detail in each reflects her discerning taste and passion for creating serene, comfortable quarters that resemble a guest room in the home of a genteel relative. For example, the rear library suite, which overlooks the private terracecovered with snow during our visithas soaring windows, floor-to-ceiling bookcases lined with an eclectic range of reading material (biographies, art books, cook books, New York architecture and history, and fiction), an original marble fireplace (one of eight in the house) with a resplendent antique mirror over the mantle, original parquet wood flooring and sumptuous ecru cotton bedding with a lofty duvet. Just the tonic after a day exploring the bustling streets of Manhattan!

In the beginning we furnished the rooms with pieces we already had, but we also love to hunt for antiques for the house, Lia shared. I just found a wonderful table the other day.

With their youngest daughter, Natalie, a high school junior considering colleges, Warren and Lia will soon be empty nesters. Having lived in most of the 1871 House at one time or another, their private nest is now the entire ground floor level which is connected to a restored two-story carriage house not visible from the street.

For us the house has always been a refuge from the hubbub of city life, and we hope that it provides this for our guests as well, Lia said. Its not just a business. We want people to be happy. People choose to come here because they want a home environment, not just a hotel.

For more information, visit http://www.1871house.com

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The 1871 Housea home away from home in bustling Manhattan - The Herald-Times (subscription)

Ever since the idea of holding an incentive auction to reclaim and repurpose broadcast spectrum for new wireless uses first surfaced, a major concern has been how to balance full power stations need to replicate their pre-auction signal coverage with low power television (LPTV) and TV Translator stations need for displacement channels in the remaining television band. Throughout the process, the FCC has announced a number of initiatives aimed at balancing those needs.

Included among these efforts is the FCCs creation of a new category of translator for full-power TV stations to fill in loss areas, a special filing window for LPTV, TV Translator and analog-to-digital replacement translator stations seeking displacement channels, and rules permitting LPTV and TV Translator stations to channel share, both among themselves and with full-power stations. Until last week, stations in these secondary services have had to stand on the sidelines and wait to see how these initiatives play out. That changed last Friday when the FCC released a detailed Public Notice outlining procedures and timelines applicable to LPTV, TV Translator, and replacement translator stations during the repack.

Most significantly, the FCC announced its intent to open a Special Displacement Window in the first quarter of 2018. The FCC stated that it anticipates releasing a public notice in November or December of this year that will give 60 days warning of the opening of the Special Displacement Window, which will remain open for 30 days.

Only LPTV, TV Translator, and analog-to-digital replacement translator stations that were operating on April 13, 2017 will be eligible to file displacement applications in the window. To be deemed an operating station, the station must have constructed its facilities and filed a license to cover application by that date. These stations can file a displacement application in the Special Displacement Window if they are displaced by a full-power or Class A TV station being repacked in Channels 2 through 36, or if they are on a channel higher than 36 and are displaced by the flexible uses envisioned by the FCC for the portion of the broadcast band repurposed via the auction.

In the filing window, applicants will have to provide interference protection to other users in the repacked TV Band and in adjacent bands, including land mobile operations, existing LPTV, TV translator and analog-to-digital replacement translator stations, full-power and Class A TV stations that were not repacked, repacked full-power and Class A TV stations as specified in the FCCs Closing and Reassignment Public Notice, and full-power and Class A television station facilities specified in applications filed in either of the two priority windows occurring prior to the Special Displacement Window.

Helping to balance those restrictions, displaced stations may specify as their displacement channel the pre-auction channel of a station being repacked or which relinquished its spectrum, subject to the condition that operations on the displacement channel cannot commence until the full-power or Class A TV station currently occupying the channel vacates it. To assist stations in developing their displacement proposals, the November/December public notice announcing the Special Displacement Window will also contain updated channel availability information identifying locations and channels that displaced stations cannot propose in their displacement applications.

To avoid a race to the courthouse when the window opens, all applications filed in the Special Displacement Window will be deemed to have been filed on the last day of the window for purposes of determining mutual exclusivity. In other words, an application filed on the first day of the window will have no higher processing priority than an application filed on the last day of the window. In cases of mutual exclusivity, the parties will be given an opportunity to resolve the mutual exclusivity among themselves via engineering amendments or settlements.

If applications remain mutually exclusive after the settlement period, the FCC will give priority to any application filed by a full-power TV station for displacement of an analog-to-digital replacement translator station or for a new digital-to-digital replacement translator station. The analog-to-digital replacement translator stations were authorized to fill in areas of a full-power stations analog contour that were lost in the digital transition. The digital-to-digital replacement translator stations are a new class of station intended to serve a similar role in filling in areas of a full-power TV stations digital contour that its repacked facilities can no longer reach.

Full-power TV stations can apply for new digital-to-digital replacement translator stations beginning with the opening of the Special Displacement Window and continuing through July 13, 2021. Whenever filed, digital-to-digital replacement translator applications will have priority over all prior new, minor change, and displacement applications filed by LPTV and TV Translator stations. If applying this priority does not resolve mutual exclusivity among applications filed in the Special Displacement Window, the FCC will resort to conducting an auction among the applicants.

Stations that can avoid having to file a displacement application by making a minor change to their existing facilities prior to the opening of the Special Displacement Window are encouraged to apply to do so as soon as possible. A freeze on filing such minor change applications will be announced, likely in October or November 2017, in preparation for the Special Displacement Window.

Stations that are not eligible for, or that simply do not file in, the Special Displacement Window will have to wait until a public notice is issued after the close of the Special Displacement Window lifting the minor modification application freeze, as well as the freezes previously imposed on the filing of non-window displacement and digital companion channel applications.

Digital LPTV and TV Translator stations that receive a displacement construction permit will have three years to build those facilities. Construction permits related to an LPTV or TV Translators transition to digital operation, or for new digital LPTV or TV Translator stations, will expire on July 13, 2021. Stations that experience difficulties in meeting their construction deadline can seek a 180-day extension of time to construct. For permits expiring on July 13, 2021, requests for an extension must be filed by March 13, 2021. After March 13, 2021, stations needing additional time must file a request for tolling of the permit expiration date. The FCC indicates it will look favorably upon extension and tolling requests where the station is able to demonstrate that it is unable to procure resources to construct due to the demand for those resources by full-power and Class A TV stations being repacked.

Analog stations making their initial transition to digital operation must air viewer notifications during the time period when viewers are most likely to be watching if the station has the ability to locally originate programming. Stations that do not have local origination capability may use other reasonable means, such as notification via newspaper or a crawl on the full-power station being rebroadcast. Stations have discretion with respect to the frequency, length and content of their viewer notifications.

Finally, the FCC noted that LPTV and TV Translator stations can continue to operate on their existing channels until the initiation of service by a repacked Class A or full-power TV station or the receipt of a notice from a new 600 MHz wireless licensee that the station is likely to cause interference. Such notice must be provided in writing at least 120 days prior to the new wireless licensee commencing operations or conducting first field application testing. If needed, a station can seek authority from the FCC to go silent to prevent interference to the new user of its frequency prior to the station completing the move to its displacement channel.

While the numerous points discussed above may already have your head spinning, Fridays Public Notice actually contains many additional details that will be important to those seeking to navigate the repack. In particular, LPTV and TV Translator stations will now need to consider their options carefully. The good news is that with this latest release of information, they are no longer trapped in the role of spectators at the auction, and can begin taking the steps needed to assess the impact of the repack on their facilities and respond accordingly.

Continue reading here:
Details of FCC's Repack Plans for LPTV and TV Translator Stations Emerge - JD Supra (press release)

(MENAFN Editorial) Superior Replacement Windows in Avondale, AZ has expanded their presence in the western part of Maricopa County, Arizona by renovating and growing the Avondale window and screen shop to include a showroom and customer services center.

Avondale, #UnitedStates - May 10, 2017 /PressCable/ --

Superior Replacement Windows in Avondale, AZ; a locally owned and operated residential glass service center, is excited to announce that its glass, window and screen shop has been expanded to include a showroom and customer services center. Superior Replacement Windows engaged in this expansion in response to the growing number of households and businesses in the Avondale area. The growing customer base for a products showroom and customer services center that will meet their product and service needs.

Superior Replacement Windows in Avondale was established with the primary aim of delivering premium affordable mobile residential and commercial replacement windows, glass shower doors and window repairs to customers scattered throughout Avondale and all its neighboring cities including Buckeye, Litchfield Park, Tolleson and Goodyear. Superior Replacement Windows specializes in delivering same day windows, shower glass doors, finest architectural glass, sliding glass doors, storefront glass and custom glass restoration for the residential and commercial buildings.

In order to achieve this worthy aim, the glass services company gathered experienced and well trained window glass experts coupled with the highest quality and cutting edge glass replacement and installation equipment. Through a perfect blend of expertise, experience and advanced equipment, Superior Replacement Windows Avondale has earned a standing reputation in the successful delivery of the most elegant glass, window repair, window replacement and installati services to the highest level of customer satisfaction, positive reviews and referrals.

"The company provides repair, restoration and replacements services for all types of glasses including custom glass, tempered glass, laminated glass, insulated glass and tinted glass" stated Mr. Peterson, the spokesman for Superior Replacement Windows in Avondale. Mr. Peterson continued, "We opened the new showroom and customer services center to ensure that we meet and surpass the needs of our valued customers. The showroom is for products display while the customer services center is the contact point of our valued customers".

The qualified and experienced team of experts at Superior Replacement Windows takes pride in the delivery of quality custom home and architectural glass, window repair and window replacement services. The team works with only the best residential and commercial glass and frames which exceed the builder's specifications.

"Our certified installation is supported by a lifetime warranty and we offer speedy and easy appointment setting and mobile technicians who bring the glass and materials to your home to seamlessly complete the installation job" stated Mr. Peterson, spokesman for the Avondale location of Superior Replacement Windows.

For more information about Superior Replacement Windows and its repair and installation services in Avondale, Arizona, please visit http://replacementwindowsavondale.com

Contact Info: Name: Todd Peterson Organization: Superior Replacement Windows Address: 103 West Lower Buckeye Road, Avondale, AZ 85323, #UnitedStates Phone: 1-602-492-9074

For more information, please visit http://replacementwindowsavondale.com

Source: PressCable

Release ID: 198314

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Superior Replacement Windows Avondale Announces Expansion of Window Glass Shop - MENAFN.COM