Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

As we approach the final quarter of 2020, the profound business shifts caused by the coronavirus are more apparent than ever, from day-to-day operations to fundamental values. We asked seven interior designersMelissa Bodie, Kati Curtis, Javier Fernandez, Taj Hunter Waite, Christina Nielsen, Alisa Popelka and Danielle Rollinshow the virus affected their firms and how theyve adjusted to the changing times.

Alisa PopelkaCourtesy of Alisa Popelka

Keeping it realIve added a COVID clause to my contract and have had open dialogues with each client regarding how they are most comfortable moving forward with projects during the pandemic, whether that is to continue in-person, change to virtual services or put their projects on hold. By remaining transparent and keeping the lines of communication open regarding issues such as longer lead times, freight and shipping delays, and managing scope creep (as clients are spending more time in their homes and adding to their projects), it establishes that we are all on the same page. Each party understands we are working under abnormal circumstances, but still striving for excellent customer service, a great client experience, and a well-designed space clients will love to live in. Alisa Popelka, Alisa Cristine Interiors, Dallas

Javier FernandezCourtesy of Javier Fernandez

Back in actionIn the early days of COVID, most of my projects were placed on hold. That time was quite scary, not knowing if the client would call back. Around the end of April, the phone calls and emails from existing clients, as well as new ones, started coming in fast and furious. After a great big sigh of relief, I went to work and have not stopped. The projects range from sprucing up a couple of rooms to full-on remodels, including participating in The Hampton Designer Showhouse to boot. What I have learned from this moment is that our homes are critical to our well-being. With more time at home, I sincerely believe that clients are investing in their homes because they have fallen back in love with them. Javier Fernandez, Transitional Designs, New York

Taj Hunter WaiteCourtesy of Taj Hunter Waite

A different paceWhen the COVID shutdown occurred, there was so much uncertainty initially. As weve slowly started again, delivery of custom orders are all moving at a snails pace. For the most part, on full design service jobs, budgets havent been affected. [The most significant change] I have experienced is clients wanting to be a bigger part of the process. When I encounter that, I suggest our virtual service options. If you want to actively be a part of the process, I can source and advise you along the way. Considering the lines between work, home and family responsibilities are more blurred than ever before, I find being flexible in offering new methods of design delivery to be key. Taj Hunter Waite, All Things Taj, Miami

Kati CurtisCourtesy of Kati Curtis

creative licenseWeve had to get creative with installs. Some buildings wouldnt allow our contractors in, some would only allow a certain number in at a time, and some have only allowed work in one unit per day, so if someone else was working wed have to wait. Weve also had some clients on a tighter deadline, meaning we have to work quickly and be extra-efficient. Some materials have been delayed due to international shipping. Its all about adapting and finding new solutions to still deliver exceptional results for our clients. Kati Curtis, Kati Curtis Design, New York

Christina NielsenCourtesy of Christina Nielsen

Here comes the boomI am extremely grateful to say that COVID has impacted my business in a positive way, and I have never been busier. As the power of home is more prevalent than ever, my clients are looking to either upgrade their homes or move into new ones. While commercial projects have stalled, New York and the surrounding area is a buyers market, which has created a boom in residential design. It has, however, been a huge learning experience to transition from in-person meetings and appointments to purely virtual. I miss having the connection of clients and showrooms, but it is clear that the design industry remains incredibly resilient and continues to adapt. Christina Nielsen, Christina Nielsen Design, New York and London

Melissa BodieCourtesy of Melissa Bodie

A closer look Fortunately, business has been solid and consistent, thanks to our introduction of e-design services. But reading the startling statistics about the viruss effect on people of color holds up a microscope to the systemic, institutional racism in the U.S., and has propelled us to continue to strive for more diversity, inclusion and equity. We continue to examine our role within the design business, reassessing the brands with whom we work and from whom we source. Melissa Bodie, Melissa + Miller Interiors, New York and Philadelphia

Danielle RollinsCourtesy of Danielle Rollins

Full speed aheadI think the home industry is in for a major boom. People [have] started really seeing their home as a place of shelter, rather than a transient dwelling they pass through. I am seeing a major shift in how people view their spacestheyre making a major investment in the things they had put off or didnt see value in investing in before. My clients are going full throttle on curtains, carpets and fully decorated spaces. Danielle Rollins, Danielle Rollins Interiors, Atlanta

Homepage photo: A project by Danielle Rollins from her forthcoming book, Home for All Seasons | Courtesy of Rizzoli

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7 designers on how COVID has impacted their businesses - Business of Home

A New Initiative to Provide Three Days of Inspiring Programming and Connect the Design Community Through Open, Interactive Events.

(August 26, 2020 -- Washington, DC) -- The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) has announced its first-ever Virtual Conference, seeking to unite design professionals nationwide. Created to support and inspire the design community despite the travel and health restrictions of COVID-19, the Virtual Conference will provide programming, resources, networking, and a virtual exhibit hall to connect designers and design partners, promote wellness and wellbeing, and demonstrate the impact of design. The Virtual Conference will be hosted on the ASID Academy and will also be accessible via mobile app from September 15-17, 2020 with a preview of the Exhibit Hall starting September 8, 2020. Additionally, the event is free and open to all of the design public, not just ASID members.

The ASID Virtual Conference will offer a diverse range of digital programs, including signature events like the ASID State of the Society. The event invites design professionals, students, educators, and manufacturers to join together and experience the Societys design impacts lives mission, free of cost. Harnessing timely topics through its CEUs, keynotes, and other programming, the Virtual Conference is set to empower designers through personal and professional development opportunities, support industry manufacturers through virtual networking, and connect and support the design community nationwide - without the limiting factors of cost or travel.

Being able to share the mission of design impacts lives with designers from around the country truly demonstrates the far-reaching power of design," states ASID Interim CEO Gary Wheeler, FASID. We are thrilled to bring the entire community together through a packed line-up of enlightening events and interactive engagements, all thoughtfully curated to spark inspiration and push our industry forward."

As part of the ASID Virtual Conference, exclusive training and events for ASID chapter leadership will also be offered simultaneously through a supplemental board agenda. The Virtual Chapter Leadership Conference will provide invaluable education and professional development for the next slate of ASID chapter leaders to succeed in their new roles.

Ranging from morning mindfulness sessions to informative CEUs and exhibitor pop-ups, the Virtual Conference will touch on topics including designs role in a post-COVID world, occupant wellbeing, industry resilience, diversity and equity in design, and more. In line with its innovative virtual format, ASID will reimagine the traditional opening program and kick off the event with a crowd-sourced keynote titled: Whats Next? Designs Impact on People, Places and Planet. Highlighting the best names in design, an array of luminary speakers - including ASID Designers of Distinction, Student Portfolio Winners, Fellows and more - will explore the meaning of design impacts lives.

Speakers for the Virtual Conference include:

Gary E. Wheeler, FASID

Interim CEO, ASID

Gary E. Wheeler, FASID, is a renowned professional with more than 30 years design experience and a passion for creative excellence. He has led practices at Perkins&Will, Gensler, and most recently, HDR. Distinguished for his strategic approach to workplace design, Gary began his career as co-founder of the Wheeler Group in 1978. Gary has worked with companies in a variety of industries, including Apple, JPMorgan Chase, Time Warner, Bates Advertising, Leo Burnett Worldwide and Marsh. His many ASID accomplishments and milestones include being named the Designer of Distinction (1999), granted fellowship and serving as National President (1994). During Wheelers time as ASID President, he was a transformative leader that ushered in a new era for the organization by expanding the ASID Foundation and investing in research and evidence-based design. Wheeler has also been inducted into the Interior Design Hall of Fame and received the Senior Fellow Award from The Design Future Council (DFC) in 2002. He is one of the few designers with Fellow distinction with ASID and IIDA.

Kerrie Kelly, FASID, NKBA, CAPS

Chair-Elect, ASID Board of Directors

Creative Director, Kerrie Kelly Design Lab

With over 25-years of experience, Kerrie Kelly is creative director for Kerrie Kelly Design Lab. Kerri is an award-winning California interior designer, author, and contributor; and a product designer and multimedia consultant helping national brands reach the interior design market. Kerrie is a fellow, chair-elect to the National Board of Directors, and chair of the Foundation Board of Trustees for the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID); Houzz Pro Advisory Board Member; and the 2020 Trends Expert of the National Kitchen and Bath.

Jennifer Kolstad, ASID, Assoc. AIA

Chair, ASID Board of Directors

Global Design Director, Ford Motor Company

Jennifer Kolstad is the global design director of Ford Motor Companys built environments. Her role seeks to unify Fords brand language across typologies through architecture and design, investigating opportunities for cultural and behavioral change, elevating design impact internal and external to the global Ford ecosystem. With a core belief in collaboration, her mission is to ideate future-state readiness for the physical infrastructure of a next-gen mobility company. Dedicated to the longevity of the interior design profession holistically, Jennifer is the 2020 chair of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) National Board of Directors. Since joining the national board in 2016, her focus has been the broader application of the interior design professional's human-centered expertise in every design equation.

About ASID

The American Society of Interior Designers believes that design transforms lives. ASID serves the full range of the interior design profession and practice through the Societys programs, networks, and advocacy. We thrive on the strength of cross-functional and interdisciplinary relationships among designers of all specialties, including workplace, healthcare, retail and hospitality, education, institutional, and residential. We lead interior designers in shared conversations around topics that matter: from evidence-based and human-centric design to social responsibility, well-being, and sustainability. We showcase the impact of design on the human experience and the value interior designers provide.

ASID was founded over 40 years ago when two organizations became one, but its legacy dates back to the early 1930s. As we celebrate nearly 85 years of industry leadership, we are leading the future of interior design, continuing to integrate the advantages of local connections with national reach, of small firms with big, and of the places we live with the places we work, play, and heal. Learn more at asid.org.

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ASID Announces First Ever Virtual Conference - Vegas Magazine

Where does your drinking water come from? A city supply, private well, bottles? Sometimes it feels like it magically appears, ready for use, and then it goes down the drain or toilet. Poof! All gone! Or is it?

I am going to reveal the secret life of water.

We all know the water cycle where water evaporates up to the clouds where it collects until it gets dense enough to rain (or snow if it is cold enough). It then falls back to earth to become groundwater again. When water seeps in from the surface and reaches the water table, it begins moving towards points where it can escape, such as wells, rivers or lakes.

Many homes in this area get their drinking water from either a private or public well. This is why it is important to prevent drinking water from becoming polluted by managing potential sources of contamination in the area that supplies water to a well.

Much can be done to prevent pollution, such as the wise use of land and chemicals. Public health is protected and the expense of treating polluted water or drilling new wells is avoided through wellhead protection efforts.

So, now where does it go after I flush?

Some of us have a septic system that consists of a tank and drain field. Wastewater enters the tank. The solids sink and begin to break down. The liquid drains from the tank to the drain field where the remaining impurities naturally decompose and the water returns as groundwater.

City residents are probably connected to the city sewer system. The wastewater collected in the city sewer system is piped to the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District (WLSSD) in Duluth for treatment. The treatment is similar to a septic system, but on a larger scale.

So, you might be asking why I am interested in the secret life of water. Well, the quick answer is that water is a limited resource. There is the same amount of water on Earth as there was when Earth was formed. The water from your faucet could contain molecules from water that dinosaurs drank.

Cool! But wait, theres more.

Nearly 97% of the worlds water is salty or otherwise undrinkable. Another 2% is locked in ice caps and glaciers. That leaves just 1% for all of humanitys needs all of our agricultural, residential, manufacturing, community and personal needs.

Water is part of a deeply interconnected system. What we pour on the ground ends up in our water, and what we spew into the sky ends up in our water.

So, the final point of my interest in the secret life of water is keeping it safe. One way I am doing this is by eliminating as many chemicals as possible in all of my cleaning. I am replacing the chemicals with things like baking soda, lemon juice, vinegar and salt. This saves money both in the cost of cleaning supplies and in the costs of treating used water.

Natural cleaning products result in a purer environment. Using natural cleaners also contributes to a healthier environment. They help reduce pollution to waterways and air. Conventional cleaners can easily seep into a water supply, and water treatment plants have difficulty treating a large volume of such chemicals.

The city of Carlton is going to give away two natural cleaning kits in October. Every address in town will be entered in the drawing. Two winners will be contacted.

Natural cleaning recipes are available to everyone. Visit http://www.cityofcarlton.com for cleaning recipes and sewer and septic tips or contact me if you would like a copy: 218-384-4229 or carlton@cityofcarlton.com.

Jodie Johnson is the deputy clerk for the city of Carlton.

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Johnson column: The secret life of water - Pine Journal

G&R Plumbing Inc., a leading plumbing company, has issued an update on their preparedness towards the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cincinnati, OH - September 14, 2020 - This exceptional Cincinnati plumbing service provider has announced how they prepare themselves to offer undisrupted plumbing solutions on their website. As a critical industry, the company stated that they are taking all the necessary precautions to prevent any virus's further spread.

The company maintained that they duly understand the seriousness with which this disease comes with. That is why it takes the necessary precautions to avoid further spread of the virus that has disrupted services across the country. Even better, the company said that they need everyone to feel secure while still getting the services they may require.

As an essential industry serving homes and businesses, the company is fully aware that everyone will still need plumbing services even in the face of the pandemic. To enhance such services' continuous flow, the company assures its clients that they have been and will continue to have all their technicians wear appropriate PPE whenever entering someone's home or business.

Moreover, they alluded that clients should rely on them to come to their aid on time for any Cincinnati plumbing services. In doing so, their technicians will adhere to the safety precautions by wearing gloves, masks, eye protection, and other protective gear. Besides, they also understand the need for everyone to keep safe, be staying at home, and maintaining social distancing altogether.

About G&R Plumbing Inc.

G & R Plumbing, with over 37 years of operations, backed with a combined experience spanning 100 years, this exceptional plumbing company brings exquisite expertise and knowledge on various plumbing needs. The services and scope touch on repairs and installations of plumbing systems for residential to commercial premises.

Additionally, the company boasts itself in having skilled technicians who can handle any plumbing at affordable prices.

Media ContactCompany Name: G & R Plumbing, Inc.Contact Person: Adam PartinEmail: Send EmailPhone: 513-528-5151Address:562 Clough Pike City: CincinnatiState: OHCountry: United StatesWebsite: gandrplumbing.com/

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G&R Plumbing, Inc. Gives an Exclusive Update on their COVID-19 Preparedness - Press Release - Digital Journal

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) Construction is underway to rebuild the historic Greek Orthodox church destroyed 19 years ago Friday.

CBS2s Jenna DeAngelis takes a look at the history of St. Nicholas National Shrine in Lower Manhattan.

An old photo shows the majestic Twin Towers shining light on St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, a place of peace and prayer for 85 years on Cedar Street, until darkness took over on Sept. 11, 2001.

Luckily nobody was in the church that day, but as the towers were hit, obviously, the south tower came down on top of the church, said Father Evagoras Constantinides, spokesman of the archdiocese.

Only a few sacred items were found in the rubble: Icons, a candelabra, bell, tattered books.

But out of the ashes also came the commitment to rebuild.

It was the only house of worship that was destroyed on that day, and now it will be the only house of worship back at the site, Constantinides said.

credit: CBS2

He brought DeAngelis on the site of the new church to the welcome sight and sounds of crews working, a resurrection nearly two decades in the making.

Construction began at the Liberty Street location in 2015, but setbacks including financial troubles halted it two years later, leaving behind an empty dome, until the nonprofit Friends of St. Nicholas was formed.

We raised $45 million in January to March to help finish the church, said John Catsmitidis, the vice chairman of Friends of St. Nicholas.

But then came COVID-19, delaying construction again until early August.

They often say that, you know, good things come to those who wait. And I sincerely believe that St. Nicholas at the World Trade Center is the best thing. So its OK for us to wait a little bit, Constantinides said.

DeAngelis walked through whats to come, including the entryway, where people will come to light candles.

Inside, there will also be a nondenominational bereavement center a beautiful, open space, which, on the outside, will glow. A symbol of hope, strength, and unrelenting faith, for all.

Whether youre Greek Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Jewish, you come here to pray, to find solace, to find reason, Catsmitidis said.

The souls, the lives, the memories of those 3,000 people and their families and their relatives and their friends. All of the people, every single one of us, who has been affected by 9/11, this is a place for us, said Constantinides.

Completion was set for Sept. 11, 2021, and even though the pandemic set construction back, a ceremony is still planned for a year from now to commemorate the 20th anniversary of a day we will never forget.

The archdiocese says while that target date remains, its likely not going to be completed until next winter or early spring of 2022.

You can get the latest news, sports and weather on our brand new CBS New York app.Download here.

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Rising From The Ashes: Construction Continues On St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, Only House Of Worship Destroyed On 9/11 - CBS New York

On this day 9/11 in 2001, two planes flew into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City.

Today, 19 years later, the sad and emotional memories resurface for families and friends of the victims who unjustly lost their lives.

As the Twin Towers horrifically collapsed from the impact, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Manhattan was also buried.

St. Nicholas was the only other building besides the Twin Towers completely destroyed during the 9/11 terrorist attack.

Saint Nicholas Church, which commenced services in 1922, was named after Agios Nikolaos, Patron Saint of Sailors, as it was the first stopping point for many Greek migrants after they left Ellis Island, the United States busiest migrant inspection station.

For 85 years, the Saint Nicholas Church stood at 155 Cedar St, New York City, until the shocking terrorist attack occurred.

No one was inside the church during the September 11 attack, as a committee member and electrician were able to escape minutes before the south tower came crashing down destroying the church.

Amongst the rumble, only a little bit remained of the church including the damaged icon of St. Dionysios of Zakynthos, the icon of The Mother of God of the Life-giving Spring and a small handful of other religious items.

The churchs most valuable physical possessions, including the relics of St Nicholas, St Catherine, and St Sava which had been donated to the church by Nicholas II, the last tsar of Russia, were never recovered after the attack.

A devastating number of 2,753 people were killed in the 9/11 attack, including 36 Greek-Americans.

After the 9/11 attacks, it was said that the Church would reopen as a national shrine. Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, the churchs new look is inspired by Hagia Sophia and the Church of the Holy Savior in Chora, two Byzantine-era shrines in Constantinople.

The rebuilding and reopening of Saint Nicholas is referred to a beacon and some kind of miracle.

Construction of the new Church was halted when the money ran out and according to reports, a lot of the funds donated for the construction of St. Nicholas Church was used to cover unrelated expenses.

Earlier this year, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America used sprigs of basil and holy water to bless the restart of construction works at the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. Construction was set to resume in the spring, then COVID hit, grounding all non-essential projects statewide to a halt for months.

The aim is to have the new St. Nicholas open on September 11, 2021 the 20th anniversary of the attacks to offer comfort to New Yorkers of all faiths.

On the 19th anniversary, we remember those who lost their lives in the tragedy.

60 Minutes showcases the rebuilding of the Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church

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Remembering The Tragic 9/11 Terrorist Attacks, And The Destroyed St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church - GreekCityTimes.com

The founding ceremony of the symbolic Hagia Sophia, which will be a miniature and replica of the historic church in Constantinople that was turned into a mosque earlier this year, took place in the Syrian province of Hama.

Greek Orthodox militias supporting the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad recently announced that they would build a new church in Syria, a copy of Hagia Sophia, with the help of Russia.

This was in response to the decision by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoan to convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque in July.

When will it be ready?

The commander of the Russian Armed Forces group in Syria, Lieutenant General Alexander Chaiko addressed the audience in the ceremony saying, It will be a historical bridge between the best and spiritually moral traditions of the past, present and the future.

According to Chaiko, the construction is projected to be completed within one year and the church will function as an Orthodox place of worship.

What will the mini Hagia Sophia look like?

According to reports, this is a private funding project and has no political framework.

This is a private project, it will also be privately funded. Even the plot on which the church is to be built belongs to a family of Syrian Christians, whose ancestors resisted the Turks in the 1920s, like all Syrians at the time. You do not have to wait for a majestic construction: it will be a small church, said Nabil Abdallah, the commander of the pro-Syrian government National Defense Committee in the city a few days ago.

I do not think it deserves the echo of Hagia Sophia.

He added that the construction of the church was blessed by the Patriarch of the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch.

The question remains, will the Greek state contribute to this construction?

With Greece and Syria formalising renewed relations, it appears that Greece can begin its re-established ties with Syria by supporting the Greek Orthodox community in the construction of this cathedral.

Abdullah obtained the approval of Bishop Nicola Baalbaki, the Metropolitan of Hama and its dependencies, to build a new church in the city of Suqaylabiyah in Hama province. The more than 17,000 residents of Suqaylabiyah are overwhelmingly Greek Orthodox, as previously reported by Greek City Times.

The Greek Orthodox militias in Syria, who have remained loyal to the government battling Turkish-backed jihadists, have successfully defending their towns and churches without any assistance from Greece.

For Greece to emerge stronger after this crisis with Turkey, Athens must seriously consider supporting all Greek Orthodox communities wherever they exist in the region, whether it be Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan or Egypt. By not forging strong connections with the Greek Orthodox communities in these countries, we only use geopolitical leverage and influence.

If Greece wants to better secure its geopolitical positioning, it must forge pathways with these countries via the Greek Orthodox community. Greece already disgracefully abandoned Syria and the Greek Orthodox communities to the hordes of Turkish-backed jihadists.

Now if Greece wants to reestablish ties with Syrias Greek Orthodox community, what better way is there then assisting the construction of a Greek Orthodox church in Suqaylabiyah?

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Hagia Sophia Replica Location In Syria Is Blessed; Why Isn't Greece Assisting With Construction? - GreekCityTimes.com

Here is the weekly road construction report for District 29:

BRADLEY COUNTY SR-60 Construction of small drainage structures (LM 15.85 and LM 15.90): During this reporting period the contractor will be working on the northbound shoulder of SR-60 (25th Street) near LM 15.85 just north of the intersection with SR-2 (Keith Street). The shoulder of SR-60 will remain closed for the duration of this work. Motorists accessing the shopping plaza at this intersection are advised to use caution and watch for workers and equipment moving in the area.[Whaley Construction, LLC/Wagner/CNU227]

BRADLEY COUNTY Utility Work on SR-2 (KEITH ST.

BRADLEY COUNTY Utility Work on SR-74 (OCOEE ST. N.E.) in both directions from LM 16.26 to LM 16.88: Shoulder and single lane closure between Westview Drive NW and Keith Street NW. Signage and cones will be present. Motorists should use caution through the area and be aware of personnel and equipment between 9 AM and 3 PM with an estimated completion 11/30/20.

BRADLEY COUNTY I-75 North and South at MM 30: TDOT Materials & Tests crews will conduct core drilling operations on a bridge deck on I-75 in both directions at mile marker 30 on 9/16/20 between 7PM and 2AM. The outside lane will be temporarily closed during drilling operations. TDOT Maintenance will assist with traffic control.[TDOT Materials & Tests]

HAMILTON COUNTY SR-319 Repair of the bridge over the Tennessee River and Riverpark Drive (LM 2.2): The contractor will be performing repair operations to the bridge that will require lane closures in both directions. Extra caution should be observed of trucks entering and exiting the work-zone. During this report period the inside shoulder and inside lane of each direction are closed. Traffic is shifted to the right in both directions. Additional flaggers will be present as needed.[Mid-State Construction Company, Inc./Osbonlighter/CNU205]

HAMILTON COUNTY The tunnel cleaning of the McCallie Tunnel on US-11(US-64, SR-2), the Stringers Ridge Tunnel on US-127(SR-8), and the Bachman Tubes on US-41 (US-76, S.R.8): On Wednesday, 09/16/20 (8 PM - 6 AM), there will be a tunnel cleaning operation at the McCallie Tunnels. This will be supported by a flagging operation. Later that night, the Stringers Ridge Tunnel will be cleaned & supported by a signed detour.[Diamond Specialized, Inc./Micka/CNU182]

HAMILTON COUNTY I-24 Replacement of Belvoir Ave. bridge over I-24 and I-24 bridges over Germantown Road near MM 183: Lane shifts are in place on I-24 EB and WB under the Belvoir Avenue Bridge, at North and South Terrace approaching the Belvoir Avenue Bridge, and on Germantown Road under the I-24 Bridge. Alternating single and double lane closures will be required on I-24 EB and WB on 09/10/20 and between 09/13/20 through 09/16/20 from 9 PM and 6 AM. Additionally, there will be single lane closures in the north and south directions of Germantown Road under the I-24 Bridge and at the intersections with North and South Terrace. These closures will occur on 09/10/20 and 09/11/20, and between 09/14/20 through 09/16/20 from 9 AM to 6 AM the following morning. Motorists should be aware of the Belvoir Avenue Bridge closure and detour that was put into place on 04/20/20, and the new traffic pattern at Exit 183 on the ramp leading to the intersection of South Terrace and Germantown Road on 08/10/20. There is a 45 MPH speed limit reduction throughout the project corridor on I-24.[Bell and Associates Construction, LP/Blevins/CMGC03]

HAMILTON COUNTY I-24 Resurfacing from the Georgia State line to near the ramp to SR-2 (US-41, US-64, US-11, Cummings Hwy): There will continue to be a paving operation on I-24 EB/WB involving lane closures as follows: Sunday - Thursday (8PM - 6AM). This project is continuous from MM 171 at the Georgia line through MM 178, just west of the US-27 split. Expect significant queueing of traffic. Manned attenuator trucks, variable speed limit signs, and two officers will be assisting in this operation.[Talley Construction Company, Inc./Micka/CNT374]

HAMILTON COUNTY I-75 at I-24 Interchange Reconstruction: Watch for trucks entering and exiting project. Traffic should expect multiple lane shifts traveling through the interchange. Lane closures will occur Sunday nights through Thursday nights between 9 PM and 6 AM at the following locations: I-75 NB MM 1, I-75 SB MM 3 and I-24 EB MM 184.0 Traffic pacing may occur throughout interchange Sunday nights through Thursday nights between 9 PM and 6 AM. Additionally, there may intermittent shoulder closures at various locations for access to the median and roadside areas. I-75 NB to I-24 WB split has been moved back 1500 feet from its previous location. Welcome Center traffic intending to use I-24 WB now, will have to detour on I-75 NB to Exit 3. Detailed detour information will be available at the Welcome Center. The speed limit has been reduced to 45 MPH throughout the interchange. RESTRICTIONS: There is a 14' width restriction on the NB I-75 to WB I-24 interchange ramp. This affects wide loads at approximately MM 1.7.[C.W. Matthews Contracting Company, Inc./Blevins/DB1801]

HAMILTON COUNTY US-27 (I-124) Widening from I-24/US-27 interchange to north of the Olgiati Bridge over the Tennessee River, including widening the Olgiati Bridge: Work on this project continues with activities occurring in the median and shoulders of US-27. Motorists should be alert for construction vehicles entering and exiting the activity area. Motorists should pay close attention to the detour signage posted. The speed limit on US-27 in the construction zone remains 45 MPH. Weather permitting, the contractor may implement temporary lane/shoulder closures on weeknights between the hours of 7 PM and 6 AM. At least one lane will remain open in each direction on US-27. Currently EXIT 1C from northbound US-27 to 4th St. has been closed and is scheduled to reopen on 09/15/20. Motorist should use alternate posted detours at EXITS 1A and 1B from US-27 northbound, to 4th Street. On Thursday, 09/10/20, thru Wednesday, 09/16/20 between the hours of 9 AM to 9PM temporary lane closures will be in place for southbound US-27 from the Olgiati Bridge to I-24 for milling and leveling of the asphalt. A State Trooper is requested for the duration of these scheduled lane closures. On Thursday, 9/10 (9AM 1PM) the US27 SB loop ramp servicing MLK will be closed to support a drilling operation for an overhead sign. Traffic will be signed & detoured to 6th St. RESTRICTIONS: I-124 (US-27)Southbound Exit 1C 4th St Of Ramp: No oversize/over dimensional loads; I-124 (US-27) Southbound Exit 1-B Martin Luther King Blvd. Off Ramp: No oversized/over dimensional loads; Martin Luther King Blvd. between Chestnut St. and Gateway Ave.: No oversized/over dimensional loads.[Dement Construction Company, LLC/Micka/CNP230]

HAMILTON COUNTY TDOT Bridge Inspection on I-24 both directions from MM 178 to MM 181.5: From 7 AM to 5 PM on 09/10/20 and from 7 AM to 5 PM on 09/14/20 through 9/16/20, structure inspections will take place closing the shoulders with a mobile attenuator operation.

HAMILTON COUNTY TDOT Contractor on I-24 in both directions from MM 184.0 to MM 171.0: On Thursday, 9/10/20 (9AM - 6AM), the contractor will be installing Emergency Mile Marker signs along the median of I-24 WB. Work start at about MM 184.0 and proceed WB. On Sunday, 9/13 thru Wed ,9/16, the contractor will proceed with the sign installation. Once he gets inside the I-24 OGFC project (MM 178 to MM171), the contractor will coordinate with Talley Construction related to the direction of the installation (EB or WB).

HAMILTON COUNTY TDOT Contractor on SR-317 (BONNY OAKS DR.) westbound from LM 1.734 to LM 4.545: On Thursday and Wednesday of this reporting period, there will be intermitting lane closures on Bonny Oaks from 9 AM-3:30 PM. There will be flaggers directing traffic at several spots in this area.

HAMILTON COUNTY Utility Work on SR-2 (BROAD ST.) northbound from LM 6.13 to LM 3.12: Shoulder and single lane closure between W. 35th Street and W. 33rd Street. Arrow boards, signage and cones will be present. Motorists should use caution through the area and be aware of personnel and equipment between 9 AM and 6 PM from 09/10/20 through 09/23/20.

HAMILTON COUNTY Utility Work on SR-2 (BROAD ST.) southbound at LM 6.98: Shoulder and single lane closure between W. 24th Street and W. 27th Street. Signage, cones, and flaggers will be present. Motorists should use caution through the area and be aware of personnel and equipment between 9 AM and 3 PM through 09/18/20.

HAMILTON COUNTY Utility Work on SR-319 (HIXSON PK.) northbound at LM 14.73: Shoulder and single lane closure between Heron Cove Lane and Freedom Bay Drive. Signage, cones, and flaggers will be present. Motorists should use caution through the area and be aware of personnel and equipment between 9 AM and 3 PM through 09/25/20.

HAMILTON COUNTY Utility Work on SR-319 (HIXSON PK.) northbound at LM 7.98: Shoulder and single lane closure between Brookaire Road and Destiny Drive. Signage, cones, and flaggers will be present. Motorists should use caution through the area and be aware of personnel and equipment between 9 AM and 3 PM through 09/25/20.

HAMILTON COUNTY Utility Work on SR-320 (E. BRAINERD RD.) westbound from LM 3.29 to LM 5.77: Lane closure between Bel-Air Road and Greens Road with flaggers, signage, barrels and/or cones. Motorists should use caution and be aware of personnel and equipment when traveling through the work zones. This is a nighttime lane closure between 7 PM to 5 AM starting 09/14/20 through 09/18/20.

HAMILTON COUNTY SR-29 (US-27) Repair of the bridge over Big Soddy Creek (LM 20.6): During this report period the contractor will have traffic restricted with one lane of SR-29 southbound closed over Big Soddy Creek. Additionally, one lane of SR-111 southbound will be closed as it approaches the SR-29 junction.[Mid-State Construction Company, Inc./Osbonlighter/CNU046]

HAMILTON COUNTY SR-2 (US-64, US-11) Improvement of the intersection at Edgmon Road in Collegedale (LM 22.7), including grading, drainage and paving: During this report period, the contractor will be performing grading, drainage and paving. Extra care should be taken while trucks and heavy equipment are entering and exiting the roadway. The roadway may be temporarily restricted to a one lane roadway by flagging operation.[Talley Construction Company, Inc./Osbonlighter/CNU012]

HAMILTON COUNTY SR-317 (Apison Pike) Improvement project from SR-321 (Ooltewah-Ringgold Road) to east of Layton Lane: Lane closures and flagging operations will be required on SR-317, Apison Pike, to install power poles and transfer lines. The flagging operations will be performed on 09/10/20, 09/11/20, 09/14/20, 09/15/20, and 09/16/20 from 7 AM to 1 PM and 3 PM to 7 PM. Closures will last about 2 hours per location. There will also be very short lane closures for blasting that will last five minutes or less. The contractor will have intermittent flagging operations during daytime non-peak hours for utility work, delivery of materials and equipment.[Wright Brothers Construction Company, Inc./Osbonlighter/CNT336]

MCMINN COUNTY SR-39 Resurfacing from Maple Street (LM 15.2) to east of County Road 469 (LM 19.7): During this reporting period, the contractor will have intermittent lane closures Monday through Friday between the hours of 7 AM and 5:30 PM for the installation of permanent pavement markings. Motorists are advised to use caution in the work zone and watch for flaggers assisting with traffic control.[Rogers Group, Inc./Wagner/CNU211]

MCMINN AND POLK COUNTY SR-163 Resurfacing from west of CR-750 (Piney Grove Road) (LM 9.0) in McMinn County to US-411 (SR-30) (LM 1.0) in Polk County: During this reporting period the contractor will have intermittent lane closures on SR-163 Monday through Saturday between the hours of 7 AM and 5:30 PM for the installation of rumble stripe, permanent pavement markings, and snowplowable pavement markers. The speed limit has been reduced to 45 mph in the work zone. Motorists are advised to use caution and watch for flaggers assisting with traffic control.[Wright Brothers Construction Company, Inc./Wagner/CNU137]

MEIGS COUNTY SR-58 Resurfacing from north of Ten Mile Road (LM 31.3) to the Roane County line (LM 35.1): During this period, the contractor will have one lane closed while performing resurfacing operations. One lane will always remain open. Additional flaggers will be on-site to assist with traffic control as needed.[Rogers Group, Inc./Osbonlighter/CNU163]

MEIGS COUNTY SR-58 Repair of bridge over Hiwassee River (LM 5.22): During this report period, the contractor will have the roadway reduced to one lane controlled by temporary traffic signals. Additional flaggers will be on site as needed.[Mid-State Construction Company, Inc./Osbonlighter/CNT103]

POLK COUNTY Utility Work on SR-33 (HWY. 411) in both directions from LM 9.9 to LM 14: Mobile lane closures from the SR-40 junction to Ocoee River Bridge as crews transition work zone. Motorists should use caution and be aware of personnel and equipment when traveling through the work zones. Signage, cones, and flaggers will be present between 9 AM to 3 PM with an estimated completion of 09/30/20.

POLK COUNTY SR-40 (US-64) Bridge over the Ocoee River: During this reporting period, the contractor will be working on the westbound shoulder of US-64 (SR-40) to construct a new haul road. The westbound shoulder of US-64 (SR-40) will be closed for the duration of this work. Motorists are advised to reduce speed in the work zone and watch for trucks entering/leaving the highway.[Charles Blalock and Sons, Inc./Wagner/DB1802]

POLK COUNTY SR-40 (US-64) Emergency slope stabilization near LM 20.5: During this reporting period, the contractor will be working to stabilize a slope near LM 20.5 on SR-40 (US-64). The eastbound truck climbing lane is closed at this location and will remain closed for the duration of construction. Motorists are advised to reduce speed to 35 mph in the work zone due to a lane shift and to watch for trucks entering/leaving the highway.[Wright Brothers Construction Company, Inc./Wagner/CNU909]

POLK COUNTY SR-40 (US-64) Repair of bridges over North Potato Creek (LM 26.93): During this reporting period, the contractor will be working on painting the steel beams on the eastbound bridge and installing a new concrete railing on the westbound bridge. Traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction on US-64 for the duration of this work. Motorists are advised to use caution and reduce speed in the work zone due to decreased lane widths. RESTRICTIONS: 12 ft. maximum width LM 26.93 Westbound 14 ft. maximum width LM 26.93 Eastbound.[Jones Bros. Contractors, LLC/Wagner/CNT062]

POLK COUNTY Boanerges Church Road construction of a bridge over Old Fort Creek: During this reporting period, the contractor will be working to install concrete walls for portions of the new bridge and construct new bridge approaches. This work will occur weather permitting. Boanerges Church Road is closed to all traffic for the duration of construction. Detour signs are posted diverting traffic around the closure onto SR-313 and US-411.[Summers-Taylor, Inc./Wagner/CNT279]

RHEA COUNTY SR-302 Resurfacing from SR-30 (LM 0.0) to SR-68 (LM 8.9): During this period, the contractor will have one lane closed while performing resurfacing operations. One lane will always remain open. Additional flaggers will be on-site to assist with traffic control as needed.[Rogers Group, Inc./Osbonlighter/CNU215]

RHEA COUNTY Utility Work on SR-68 (WATTS BAR HWY.) in both directions from LM 15.16 to LM 15.10: Shoulder and single lane closure between Peakland Road and Watts Bar Drive. Signage, cones, and flaggers will be present. Motorists should use caution through the area and be aware of personnel and equipment between 9 AM and 3 PM from 09/14/20 through 09/18/20.

RHEA COUNTY The grading, drainage, construction of bridges, paving and signals on a S.I.A. route serving Nokian Tyres: The portion of US-27 in front of the Nokian Tyres SIA entry will continue to experience a traffic shift with no shoulders. There will be the movement of construction vehicles in and out of the site as construction and material deliveries continue. The travelling public should be alert.[Dement Construction Company, LLC/Micka/CNU014]

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Weekly Road Construction Report - The Chattanoogan

Three years ago, the 130-year-old Sweetest Heart of Mary Catholic Church on Detroits east side was forced to repair or remove its two steeples or the city would condemn the building.

The cost to fix the problem would have left the parish devastated.

The 130-year-old Sweetest Heart of Mary Catholic Church faced an unfortunate fate three years ago when its two steeples started falling apart.

To restore the spires, it would have cost $2.5 million. The estimate to remove them: $765,000.

If the church didnt have enough money to do either, it could have been condemned by the city.

We saved part of Detroits skyline.

Larry Wilk has a deep connection with the church. His 92-year-old mother still attends mass and volunteers.

I was baptized here," he said. "My daughter was married here. We have a long standing relationship with the parish. My grandparents were part of this parish.

So, when he heard the news three years ago, he asked Father Greg Tokarski if he could help.

I dont claim to be a steeple repair expert by any means.

Larry has a construction background and volunteered to be the project manager. After negotiating contracts, he was able to get a team together to make the repairs at $500,000.

It wasnt an easy task.

The spires were in awful condition and the team found bullet holes in them. At some point, they had to shut down the streets and bring in cranes to get the work done properly.

It was a monumental task. We had many challenges. My contractor suffered a heart attack in the middle of the project.

Thankfully, he bounced back and now they have completed the project using new materials and copper.

Father Greg wanted to do something special for Larry, so the church is dedicating the steeples to his late daughter.

We will have these spires, hopefully, for another century or more.

The church is continuing to collect donations for other repairs to be done. You can donate at: https://www.motherofdivinemercy.org/

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Historic Detroit church completes three years' worth of repairs with help from community - WXYZ

Construction resumed last month on the only house of worship destroyed on 9/11. As we reported last spring, the faithful have spent nearly 20 years struggling to rebuild St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church into a national shrine at Ground Zero. At times opposed by the powerful, sabotaged by human frailty, the project is rising again, thanks to those who never lost faith in the resurrection of St. Nicholas.

In 1922, a tavern found religion. During prohibition, Greek immigrants consecrated a Lower Manhattan bar with a cross.

Bill Tarazonas: The first time I walked in, and alright, I saw that little place in there, beautiful little place, I felt something.

Bill Tarazonas was the last caretaker of St. Nicholas.

Bill Tarazonas: It was my pride and joy.

Scott Pelley: You called the place Uncle Nick?

Bill Tarazonas: That's the first thing when I walked in, say, "Hi, Uncle Nick. How are you?" That was my thing.

"Uncle Nick" was traditional. The tomb of Jesus was carried through streets on Easter. On the epiphany, the cross was raised from the river, symbolizing the baptism of Jesus. His face was humble but inside there was soul. Rich images of Jesus, Mary and the saints, known as iconography. Developers coveted the land but the lone church stood its ground.

Regina Katopodis: They were set that no one was gonna take their church. My father spoke for all. There was not to be any compromise.

Regina Katopodis' father, Jimmy Maniatis, was president of the church and frustrated developers for 34 years.

Regina Katopodis: He said, 'They offered me 15 million dollars and I said no.' There was absolutely no hesitation about it.

Scott Pelley: There was even a time that the Archdiocese itself wanted to sell the church. How could he turn down the Archdiocese?

Regina Katopodis: My father was a man of principle. And a church is a body of people. All he had to do was say no.

For eight decades, St. Nicholas remained defiant at 155 Cedar Street, an address that would mark its place in history.

Bill Tarazonas: Before we knew it, hell broke loose.

Bill Tarazonas was there on 9/11.

Bill Tarazonas: The building just went like this. What's goin' on here? and then I walk outside. That was the worst thing in my life.

A landing gear wheel bounded into the parking lot. Tarazonas opened his van to find human remains across his seat.

He fled on foot just before tower two collapsed.

Scott Pelley: That's when you knew that St. Nicholas was gone.

Bill Tarazonas: Yep I lost part of me. I lost a part of me.

The days that followed yielded only fragments.

Greek Archbishop Demetrios comforted rescue workers.

Archbishop Demetrios: A group of workers came and they said, "We would like to ask you to pray for us." I say, "Why?" They said "Here, as we work, we know that we deal also with remnants of human bodies. Please pray for us."

Among the dead was 31-year-old John Katsimatides, a bond broker in one of the towers, who had discovered St. Nicholas on a lunch hour. His sister, Anthoula Katsimatides, told us his remains were never found.

Anthoula Katsimatides: I don't have a gravesite to visit. and it's incredibly difficult, because we never buried anything or, you know, said goodbye.

Scott Pelley: What was it about the church that was so special to your brother?

Anthoula Katsimatides: With all these buildings and concrete, I think that he felt, I know that he probably felt at peace lighting a candle and just saying a prayer for whatever was going on.

Those buildings and concrete became the 9/11 memorial and plans were drawn for a small domed church, the St. Nicholas National Shrine.

But, as the congregation prayed at the site each year, there were delays and a budget that quadrupled to $85 million. Construction began in 2015. The dome rose a year later. But in 2017, the money, from private donations, ran out. Construction stopped.

Only faith kept St. Nicholas alive, as we discovered 5,000 miles away.

On the Greek coast, Mount Athos is a hermit peninsula of 20 ancient orthodox monasteries. Behind the walls of the Xenophontos Monastery, work on St. Nicholas never wavered.

Father Jeremiah: Xenophontos is one of the oldest monasteries on Mount Athos. The first historical witness we have is from the year 998.

Father Jeremiah hails from a town named for a saint, San Angelo, Texas

Father Jeremiah: This was where God wanted me, and here I am.

Scott Pelley: You've been here how long?

Father Jeremiah: Twenty-two years.

The Xenophontos Monastery is a fortress against time.

Father Jeremiah: About 50 monks live at this monastery. There's traditional tasks or what we call obediences in the monastery. The monks who work in the refectory. The monks who work in the garden. The monks who work among the olive trees, among others we have, of course, the iconographers who are very, very cultivated and have really mastered their art form.

Master iconographer Father Lukas is painting the iconography for the new St. Nicholas in the old craft of egg tempera.

Father Lukas: God has called me to do this work. to communicate the spirit of Mount Athos to the people.

Father Lukas granted us an early look at 56 icons for the project. He painted St. Nicholas, by tradition, as the patron of seafarers, lifting a man from a violent sea. But what's troubling these waters is 9/11.

Father Lukas: I personally want this church, through the iconography to open up a new horizon for people, That they come away with hope. If this happens, the icons will have fulfilled their purpose.

Near Father Lukas' studio we met the designer of the church at ground zero, Spanish architect, Santiago Calatrava. He'd been to Mount Athos twice before, for inspiration.

Scott Pelley: You know I wonder, what does an architect see when we walk through this courtyard?

Santiago Calatrava: I believe you see, that you do not need to be an architect, or know a lot about the history of architecture, to, to feel architecture. It's like music or something like that. You just have to open your heart.

For St. Nicholas, in Manhattan, his inspiration came from the Hagia Sophia, the former orthodox church in Istanbul. Inside, Calatrava sketched an icon of Mary and he thought since she carried Christ her body was a church.

Santiago Calatrava: So there, herself becomes a kind of temple, isn't it? Containing something that, according to the Orthodox faith, you know, is almost uncontainable, you know? Which is the idea of God.

The vestments of the new St. Nicholas will be white marble, crowned with a translucent dome. At night, it will be a beacon.

Santiago Calatrava: Light. Very important.

Scott Pelley: Why is the light very important?

Santiago Calatrava: You know, light, in my eyes, is to architecture what sound is to music.

Light, candlelight, illuminated the Easter celebration on our visit to Mount Athos in 2018. Abbot Alexios led the procession and, at midnight, quoted the angel in the book of Mark, "He is risen, he is not here."

In the sanctuary, chandeliers were propelled into orbits to symbolize the joint celebration on Earth and in heaven, recalling the psalm, "Praise him sun and moon, praise him all you stars of lights."

But in Manhattan, there has been little sound or light since construction stopped in 2017. An investigation into finances revealed that millions meant for St. Nicholas were spent on other expenses of the archdiocese.

Scott Pelley: About three-and-a-half million dollars was used elsewhere by the archdiocese. Is that correct?

Archbishop Demetrios: It was a transferring of money from the St. Nicholas to another kind of account. Afterwards we heard about that, I ask, "Why you did that?" I said, "You should not have touched the St. Nicholas money at all for no matter what. It was a mistake, has been corrected.

The money was returned. Last year, Archbishop Demetrios resigned. A new archbishop and New York state named an independent board to raise the last $45 million and manage construction. Fresh hope for Anthoula Katsimatides who lost her brother.

Anthoula Katsimatides: I know that once St. Nicholas opens, my mom and I will visit and say a prayer for John there. a place of love and hope for all family members and for all people from around the world who are gonna come and visit and pay their respects to everyone that died that day.

Last summer, Father Lukas left his refuge on Mount Athos for Manhattan to take the measure of God's empty gallery. He told us the walls anticipating his paintings represent the most important work of his life. The feeling is familiar to Regina Katopodis whose father had refused to sell the old church.

Regina Katopodis: I'm in it for my dad and for everybody else that has gone and perished and hoping to, with their last breath, that they would be able to see St. Nicholas rebuilt.

Scott Pelley: 100 years from now, what will that little church on the plaza say to the world?

Regina Katopodis: That the good of mankind can conquer evil no matter what.

It was the orthodox church that made the cross the symbol of Christianity. But, during construction, it was discovered the dome of St. Nicholas, alone, had reached the maximum height allowed by a higher power, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey which controls the site. In another act of salvation, officials decided a few more feet of heaven could be spared. If all goes well, and it rarely has, St. Nicholas will be born again, next year, on the 20th anniversary of 9/11. A monument to death and life and unremitting faith.

Produced by Ashley Velie and Dina Zingaro. Broadcast associates, Ian Flickinger and Annabelle Hanflig. Edited by Warren Lustig.

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Nearly 20 years after being destroyed on 9/11, a New York City church is being resurrected - 60 Minutes - CBS News