Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

Seeing the Angels take batting practice before Tuesdays game at Yankee Stadium was standard operating procedure.

But Shohei Ohtani out there taking swings in the late afternoon sunlight?

That was about as common as witnessing people surfing in the Bronx.

This was a rarity, a truly special phenomenon, because Ohtani who is followed around by dozens of reporters and TV cameras any time he gets within a few blocks of a ballpark almost exclusively prefers to do his pregame preparation indoors, where his every movement cant be tracked.

The last time Ohtani did so? It was at the World Baseball Classic, before Samurai Japan faced Mexico in the semifinals. The media that chronicles him regularly was surprised by his appearance, and stunned by the display he put on that evening. Ohtani launched rocket after rocket into the rightfield upper deck of loanDepot park, nearly clearing it on a few occasions.

His explanation then? Ohtani said he knew Mexico was watching, so he wanted to show them what would happen if any of their pitches wound up in the wrong place (Im paraphrasing, but you get the idea). For the soft-spoken Ohtani, that was a bold statement.

Ohtani provided similar fireworks Tuesday, smacking what had to be a 500-foot rocket over the batters eye in centerfield, above Monument Park. There were other mammoth shots. But that was only batting practice, right?

The Yankees wished that were the case. Because once the stadium swelled to a crowd of 37,883 and Clarke Schmidt gave up a leadoff double to Taylor Ward in the first inning, Ohtani wound up in a favorable 2-and-0 count. You can guess what happened next.

Schmidt tried to get an 88-mph sweeper past Ohtani and instead watched it sail into the Yankees bullpen, a 391-foot shot, his fourth homer of the season. Later, when asked about his public power flex during BP, Ohtani didnt cop to making any type of statement for the Yankees to see.

I just wanted to see my balls flight, Ohtani said through an interpreter after the Angels 5-2 victory, adding that such a thing would be impossible if he didnt take BP outdoors.

Well take him at his word. That maybe Ohtani really did want to see how the ball was flying off his bat. With a first-pitch temp of 52 degrees (and dropping) along with a stiff breeze at times, there was an element of that. But we also wouldnt be surprised if it was about something more, that Ohtani being on baseballs biggest stage, with all the attention, wanted to take advantage of the opportunity.

Ohtani clearly enjoyed his WBC title run with Samurai Japan, and soaked up every minute of the international exposure, right down to striking out his Angels teammate Mike Trout to close the championship game. Now beginning his walk year, with a potential $600 million payday looming, why wouldnt Ohtani want to bust out? And he understands theres no better place than New York for those moments.

He thrives in any atmosphere, Angels manager Phil Nevin said. You could put him on a back field where no ones watching and hes going to have the same competitive nature that he does in front of 40,000 at Yankee Stadium. Thats what makes him special and makes him one of the best in the game.

Sure. But then how do you explain his stolen base in the fifth inning, his first since July 26 of last season? Was that just a coincidence? Or was Ohtani feeling something a little extra under these brightest of lights? When he bolted for second, Kyle Higashiokas throw sailed into centerfield, allowing Ohtani to cruise into third. He then scored on Anthony Rendons sacrifice fly to solidify the Angels lead at 5-2.

Oddly enough, it was Aaron Boone who brought up Ohtanis wheels before the game, an unexpected reply to a question about the former MVPs supernatural skills.

I think that's the last thing you talk about and you watch him get down the line and youre like, Oh and hes the fastest guy out there," Boone said. It's amazing what he's doing. It really is. What he's doing on the mound, in the batter's box, and then you add the speed element. Just a special talent that maybe we've never seen and maybe never will again.

Ohtanis two-run blast Tuesday was 100 years to the day that Babe Ruth opened Yankee Stadium with a home run of his own, so it was a fitting celebration from the modern heir to Ruth and this millenniums two-way star. Ohtani said he was aware of the 100-year anniversary, and mentioned that he appreciates each trip here.

Its a beautiful field, passionate fans, Ohtani said. I always look forward to playing here.

Whether the Bronx could ever be a more permanent home for Ohtani remains to be seen (though we highly doubt it). So just try to enjoy his visits as much as Ohtani does.

David Lennon is an award-winning columnist, a voter for baseball's Hall of Fame and has covered six no-hitters, including two perfect games.

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Yankee Stadium's short porch beckons Shohei Ohtani, not that he needs it - Newsday

VIRGINIA The Northern Virginia region is full of interesting places to visit and lovely weather to take in, especially this time of year. Throughout the area, several homes for sale take advantage of the region's splendor with stunning porches and convenient locations.

A home for sale in Leesburg is more secluded,with plenty of space for the new owners to stretch out. It also has luxury features like a golf simulator, multiple wet bars, and a winding driveway.

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Another home for sale in Fredericksburg has an eye-catching 1970s style along a lakefront. It's situated within the woods and allows for plenty of privacy.

Patch has put together a collection of beautiful homes on the market in Northern Virginia and Fredericksburg. You can find photo galleries of properties in the listings linked in each article.

$5M Leesburg Estate Boasts Golf Simulator, Wet Bars, Marble Floors

$1.1M Fredericksburg Home Features 1970s Style In Secluded Woods

Relax On Screened Porch With Fireplace At Custom Vienna Home

Inside this $3.2 million home, there are seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms. The chef's kitchen lives up to its name with a six-burner stove. The lower level is an entertainer's dream with a media or game room, rec room, exercise room, wet bar and fireplace. There's more space to enjoy outside with a spacious backyard as well as a front and back porch, or the screened porch with a fireplace provides an option for all seasons.

Riverfront Views Are The Backdrop Of This Luxury Alexandria Townhouse

The Potomac River views are unparalleled at this luxury townhouse in Old Town Alexandria. Residents will enjoy river views from the home, especially from the Georgian Palladian windows. The main level boasts an open floor plan with an expansive living room, luxury kitchen with a custom island, and formal dining room with room for large parties. The master suite is updated and has vaulted ceilings and river views. Two other bedrooms were updated along with the bedroom on the lower level.

Fit For A King: Here's Your Chance To Own A Regal Estate In McLean

Once owned by the Saudi Royal Family, this palatial estate is situated on over three acres near the Potomac River in McLean. This spacious property is tucked away down a private drive, surrounded by lush and mature foliage, providing a sense of peace and serenity. Features include a gated driveway, a four-car garage as well as a stunning grand foyer resembling a scene from your favorite fairy tale.

Relax On The Unique Amenity-Rich Porch At This $1.1M Manassas Home

Updated Home Near Del Ray Shows Off Plants For Spring

Enjoy the vibrant plantings and close proximity to Del Ray at this home in the Mount Ida subdivision. The four-bedroom home is move-in ready and located on a quiet street. Mature and landscaping make the outdoor space appealing. Out back, there's a fenced yard to enjoy.

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Feature-Filled Decks + Stunning Locations, Views: VA Dream Homes - Leesburg, VA Patch

Colorful backyards, with bold planters, painted walls, and lively-hued furniture can become a home's eye-catching focal point, and turn the outdoors from ordinary to one-of-a-kind. And with the weather turning warm, there's no better time than now to cozy up and create the most welcoming outdoor space where you can lounge around and spend your days.

To help you out, we reached out to top experts, to understand how to add vibrancy to backyard ideas. Here are 10 ways to inject hue into the outdoors.

(Image credit: NJ+ Arquitetura)

Add a splash of color to your outdoor seating with colored sofas, stools, and chairs. Even adding a colorful hammock could make for a fun, welcoming space.

'It's so easy to embrace bold colors in the outdoors since there are so many wonderful and durable outdoor fabrics to choose from today,' says Victoria Holly (opens in new tab), principal, and founder of Victoria Holly Interiors. 'This wasn't the case 10 years ago, but now there have been many improvements in fabrics, and dyes and there are so many exceptional offerings out there for throw pillows, cushions, table clothes, and more. Microfibre, polyester to Sunbrella (opens in new tab), you can choose the ones that suit your needs.'

'There are many playful outdoor furniture options too available in bold colors, or furniture made in powder-coated or repainted hues,' says Victoria. 'And of course, so many design-forward styles of planters to mix and match with.'

'The theme here was to create a more fresh and citric atmosphere, to enjoy the hot summer days,' says Nildo Jose (opens in new tab), founder of NJ+ Arquitetura of this backyard with vibrant green furniture. 'This space is completely uncovered and is used by the family quite a bit. We added an outdoor kitchen to this space that serves intimate dinners, and complemented it with brightly colored outdoor seaters.'

(Image credit: Ellie Mroz Design)

You can also embrace bolder backyard color trends by adding vibrant pillows to your existing outdoor sofas. If you have a wonderfully set up outdoor seating and you want to warm it up and add a bit of layering, consider throw pillows, seat cushions, or upholstered poufs. This allows you to easily redo your backyard color scheme without completely starting over.

'For outdoor cushions, man-made fibers like coated polyester, acrylic and olefin both wear better than natural fibers and are also resistant to moisture,' says Ellie Mroz (opens in new tab), founder of Ellie Mroz Design. 'I also suggest options such as Sunbrella, Perennials (opens in new tab)or Inside Out (opens in new tab). These will tolerate harsh outdoor conditions.'

(Image credit: Kit Kemp for Annie Selke)

To warm up the exteriors, and add texture and movement to the space, you need to choose the best outdoor rugs that will suit the size and function of the area. Today outdoor rugs are available in myriad colors, patterns, and sizes, plus they look a lot like their indoor counterparts, making them seem decorative and helping to turn your backyard space in to an outdoor living room of sorts.

The difference is that outdoor rugs are generally designed with long-lasting materials that will hold up against weather and resist stains and fading. The best outdoor rugs are typically made from synthetic materials. From polypropylene, polyester, and Nylon, to jute and sisal, you can consider any of these textured materials to add a touch of color and design to your backyard seating.

(Image credit: Kathy Taslitz Studio design)

A clever way to create a vivid landscape in the exteriors is undoubtedly through planting, and a climbing plant is especially effective as it can cover an outdoor wall or structure like a pergola or garden trellis to bring color to your garden's vertical planes.

'The gorgeous pink hue of this Bougainvillea is a delicious complement to my Bring It On the dining table,' says Kathy Taslitz (opens in new tab), founder of Kathy Taslitz Studio Design. 'I love matching and mixing my custom furniture with my clients surrounding floral and fauna for an explosion of color.'

(Image credit: Stacy Zarin Goldberg. Studio credit Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture )

Painting an exterior door, a deck or an entire structure is a quick way to add color to your home's exterior. Choose the best exterior paint for doors and windows, and make sure the hues match the home's existing exterior palette. If your home is set within a row of homes, this could be a great way to set it apart and make it stand out.

Another thing to note is that an effective exterior color scheme doesn't always have to have bright paint colors. Even a muted palette accented with hints of black can work. Simply paint the door frames and shutters so the look is crisp and clean instead of one-note.

(Image credit: MKCA Designs)

Consider bright-toned backyard or patio flooring to build the outdoor scheme from the ground up.

'Ceramic and porcelain are durable tiles to utilize in outdoor areas, but I also love incorporating natural materials like limestone for the outdoors,' says Victoria. 'And incorporating outdoor tiles is a great way to lean into the architectural style of your home. For Mediterranean-style homes, there are beautiful stone-blend tiles such as those from ARTO tiles (opens in new tab). Or for a more modern home, going with a clean porcelain or limestone look can add warmth while still working with the bones of the home. You can incorporate tiles on the stairs leading to your home, or also in your pool/fountain area, as another way to tie in the material throughout.'

'We love using patterned tiles outdoors,' says Lauren Lerner (opens in new tab), founder, and principal of Living with Lolo. 'Opt for ones that are good for your climate, such as terracotta or porcelain. Some of these can get very hot, so they may not be the best choice in climates that are extremely hot in the summer. When choosing a pattern, opt for something neutral to stand the test of time.'

(Image credit: Jennifer Hughes. Design: Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture)

Furniture made in metal is generally affordable and available in many colors, making it easy to find one or more to suit your garden or patio. Outdoor dining chairs in bright yellow, red, and pink look particularly striking, especially if your backyard looks out to a lawn. Consider flea markets and vintage sales for pieces you can transform with a fresh coat of paint.

This design, created by Richardson & AssociatesLandscapeArchitecture (opens in new tab), uses multi-colored chairs to bring a riot of color to an otherwise subdued backyard - the perfect talking point for al fresco dinner parties.

To add more intrigue to the outdoor dining room and to add more color, consider a vibrant tablecloth over your outdoor table. Brightly colored glassware, placemats, or napkins can also elevate backyard entertaining. Balance out the colors with runners made of natural materials such as rattan or bamboo.

(Image credit: thejoyofplants.co.uk)

'Spring is the perfect time to plant various flowers, such as daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, crocuses, and irises,' says Richa Kedia, founder of Simplifyplants (opens in new tab) & Nurserylady. 'These flowers come in a range of colors and can add a vibrant touch to your backyard. If you're looking for low-maintenance options, consider planting pansies, petunias, or marigolds. These flowers are easy to care for and can bloom for a long time.'

'Another option is to plant wildflowers, which can attract bees and butterflies to your backyard,' says Richa. 'Some popular wildflowers include black-eyed Susans, coneflowers, and phlox. Ultimately, the flowers you choose for your terrace or tropical garden, or backyard, will depend on your taste and the climate in your area. But with so many options available, you're sure to find something that will make your backyard bloom with color this spring.'

(Image credit: Pelargonium for Europe)

Want to create whimsy in your small porch or backyard? Consider colorful flower pots, that along with greenery, spread the joy of hues around the area. Suspended flowerpots along the fence for colorful wall art. If you wish, you could do a weekend DIY project with terracotta pots and coat the bases with spray paint.

To create an interesting outdoor vignette, consider pots in various sizes, and textures to add dimension. A large container can help you add in more flowers and plants, adding more hues to the outdoors. Plus, add decorative accessories such as sculptures, rocks, and accent furniture to amp up the area.

(Image credit: Dentro Fotografia. Studio credit Dobra Arquitetura)

Let your home's pergola become the perfect starting point for the outdoor color scheme. Consider interesting hues as such blue, green or pink, and paint the entire structure so it emerges as a jewel within your outdoor backyard or garden. Fill the space with accent chairs and lively green throw pillows for a coordinated look.

Consider paints in satin or eggshell finishes as these have low reflection, which means that they hide bumps and imperfections on the surface. If it's semi-gloss or gloss finish you're interested in, consider these for trim and doors. The glossier paints are more durable so they will hold up well on these trim surfaces that take the brunt of the weather.

To add more layering to the exteriors, you could bring in colored string lights on the exterior to give the backyard a lively look.

'Multi-colored string lights arent just for Christmastime,' says Sheva Knopfler, co-founder of Lights.com (opens in new tab) and creative director and decor expert. 'They add a fun pop of color to your outdoor spaces throughout every season. Define your outdoor space by stringing the lights around the perimeter. You can hang them on the fence, or drape them between trees or on poles. The multicolored LED lights create a warm look and are great for parties.'

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Colorful backyards 11 color schemes for porches and patio - LivingEtc

Lausen Mitchell Ost and Alexis Coralynn McCoy have been respectively designated as salutatorian and valedictorian for the 2023 graduating class of Sulphur Springs High School.

To perform so consistently over four years these [students] are obviously among our best and brightest, SSHS principal Josh Williams noted. As a father and a principal, I would trust them with anything.

Alexis McCoy has a 4.47 GPA and plans to attend the University of Alabama, where she hopes to concentrate in biological research and business administration.

Alexiss awards and honors include academic all-state volleyball, National Honor Society (secretary), UIL state academics medalist, Hopkins County High School Leadership, key club, and National Merit Scholars.

Alexis extends her thanks to her parents JD and Jennifer McCoy, and her teachers, especially Ms. Millsap, Ms. Herman and Mr. Grafton.

Im probably going to be what they call a life-long learner, McCoy said. It has made them [parents and teachers] so proud, and it makes me so proud.

Lausen Ost has a GPA of 4.46 and will attend Texas A&M University at College Station, where he hopes to study civil engineering, specifically transportation.

Lausens honors and activities include varsity choir, UIL journalism, UIL current events, National Honor Society (president), National Technical Honor Society, 2023 TMEA All-State mixed choir, and 2022 UIL Latino History Essay state champion.

Lausen extends his sincere gratitude to his parents Dr. Loren and Christine Ost, as well as his teachers and God.

My parents always taught me to put my hardest work into it. To come to the end, its nice for me to know Ive reached my potential, Ost said.

By Taylor Nye. Photos by Chloe Kopal

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McCoy, Ost named top SSHS Graduates in 2023 - frontporchnewstexas.com

Arlington, VA, April 20, 2023Coverings has announced Coverings Installation & Design (CID) Awards for 17 projects that showcase distinction in creativity, craftsmanship and outstanding use of materials.

The 2023 award recipients were celebrated during an awards ceremony and reception, which took place April 19 at Coverings 2023 in Orlando, Florida.

This years award winners were recognized and celebrated for their outstanding accomplishments in the design and installation of ceramic tile and natural stone for residential and commercial projects. The winning projects were completed between January 2021 and December 2022, and they showcase highly distinctive tile and stone applications that demonstrate an original or unusual use of materials, incorporate innovative technology, display installation excellence, or successfully combine aesthetics with function in unique and interesting ways.

Projects were judged by a panel of editors and industry leaders who evaluated the project submissions in terms of seven design and installation categorical designations. The categories included commercial ceramic tile design, residential ceramic tile design, residential stone design, commercial ceramic tile installation, residential ceramic tile installation, commercial stone installation, and residential stone installation.

Projects receiving special recognitions were awarded within eight categorical destinations, including artistic use of tile, ceramic art installation, glass mosaic, historic renovation, international, stained glass mural, technical excellence, and wellness.

2023 CID Award Winners-Design and Installation

Commercial Ceramic Tile-Design: Bastone, Z-Space design, Atlanta, Georgia

Residential Ceramic Tile-Design: Mountain Modern Boho, Old World Stone Imports Flooring and Design, Highland, Utah

Residential Stone-Design: Golden Harbour Exterior Stone Design, Sketch. a design studio, Boca Raton, Florida

Commercial Ceramic Tile-Installation: 8 California Street, Pennacchio Tile, San Francisco, California

Residential Ceramic Tile-Installation: Mansion in a Rockies, LFT Professionals, Alberta, Canada

Commercial Stone-Installation: 95 State Street Lobby, Kepco+, Salt Lake City, Utah

Residential Stone-Installation: Kokel Marble Project, Fusillo Tile and Stone, Warren, Ohio

2023 CID Award Winners-Special Recognitions

Special Recognition-Artistic Use of Tile: Sunset at the Ranch, Sarah Wandrey Mosaics, Royce City, Texas

Special Recognition-Ceramic Art Installation: The Worlds We Speak - A New Mosaic Mural for LaGuardia Airport Terminal C, N.Y. Tilemakers Flushing, Queens, New York

Special Recognition-Glass Mosaic: HomeGrown Custom Glass Mosaic Faade, Mosaico Boutique, Miami, Florida

Special Recognition-Historic Renovation: Religiously Detailed Historical Renovation, J&R Tile, San Antonio, Texas

Special Recognition-International: Casa MYM, Estudio Nmero 26 + Pastor y Gonzalez Arquitectos, La Albatala, Murcia, Spain

Special Recognition-International: Pabelln gora Valencia, Arqueha + Miguel Arraiz, Valencia City, Valencia, Spain

Special Recognition-International, Torres Blancas Unit 1040, Studio.Noju, Madrid, Spain

Special Recognition-Stained Glass Mural: Fly Fishing At Mt. Adams, Custom Mosaic Creations,

White Salmon, Washington

Special Recognition-Technical Excellence: 3D Tile Pillar Wrap, Footprint Wood & Stone, Prior Lake, Minnesota

Special Recognition-Wellness: Koi Pond Yoga Sanctuary, Tarkus Tile, Park City, Utah

The CID Awards judging panel included Chris Abbate, Novit Communications, representing Ceramics of Italy; Eric Astrachan, Tile Council of North America (TCNA); Bart Bettiga, National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA); Scott Carothers, Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF); Kristin Coleman, Novit Communications, representing Ceramics of Italy; John Cox, Cox Tile; Lori Dolnick and Catherine Hoy, Frank Advertising, representing Tile of Spain; Andrea Lillo, Designers Today; Kathy Meyer, Tile Council of North America (TCNA); Robert Nieminen, i+s and Architectural Products; Jennifer Richinelli, BNP Media, Stone World, Contemporary Stone & Tile Design, TILE Magazine; and Nyle Wadford, Neuse Tile.

Related Topics: CERAMICS OF ITALY, Coverings

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Coverings Announces 2023 Installation & Design Award Winners ... - Floor Focus

Colorado Water Garden Society members, including Jim Arneill of Centennial, will conduct tours of the ponds at Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. in Denver, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on April 20. They will also have advice for prospective water gardeners.

Installation coming to museum

Abstract Expressions, a new sound and garden installation, will open on the terraces of the Clyfford Still Museum in Denver in May, envisioned by artist Nathan Hall, in collaboration with Kevin Phillips Williams, assistant curator and horticulturist, Denver Botanic Gardens. The museum is at 1250 Bannock St. in downtown Denver. See clyffordstillmuseum.org.

Highlands Ranch Concert Band

The Highlands Ranch Concert Band will present Natural Wonders Across America at 3 p.m. on May 7 at Littleton High School Auditorium, 199 East Littleton Blvd. Rob Yost will conduct. Free.

Arapahoe Philharmonic

Summer Songs of Support will be a fundraising concert, banquet and silent auction held by the Arapahoe Philharmonic at 7 p.m. on June 2 at The Dome at AMG, 6295 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village. Tickets, $75. Featuring Sauel Chang, piano; Jackson Bailey, violin; Jacob Martin, cello.

Benefit craft fair

A craft fair to benefit the ACC Foundation will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 6 in the first-floor, west-side Summit Room at Arapahoe Community College, 5900 S. Santa Fe Drive in Littleton. Vendor registration fee benefits ACC Foundation and Study Abroad Programs.

Dog walks

Historic Littleton Inc. leads dog walks along a different section of the City Ditch. Meet in Ridgewood Park, 2492 West Euclid Ave. See some of the oldest sites in Littleton. Tour guide is Rebeca Kast, with Dog-Mayor Murdoch and friends. Questions? email historiclittleton@gmail.com. Park in small lot at Lower Ridgewood Park. Dogs are welcome. Tours are free. Donations are welcome. Next one is at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 7.

Spring Show

The Arapahoe Community College Art and Design Department is hosting its annual Spring Show at Aspen Grove April 20-May 7. Reception: April 20, 5-7 p.m.7301 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton.

Lone Tree

The Mary Louise Lee Orchestra will perform music of Natalie Cole at 8 p.m. April 21 at Lone Tree Arts Center. Tickets: $31-$45. See lonetreeartscenter.org.

Artists invited

Douglas Land Conservancy announces Plein Air Community Day at Sandstone Ranch Open Space. Artists, both professional and casual are invited. Five awards will be given at the end of the day, to young artists. See douglaslandconservancy.org.

Stories on Stage

Stories on Stage will perform Confessions of a Wedding Singer at 2 p.m. on May 7 at Su Teatro, 721 Santa Fe Drive, Denver. Virtual performance May 11 and after. Tickets: $24. 303-494-0523, storiesonstage.org.

Book launch

Mary Taylor Youngs new Bluebird Seasons will launch at The Bookies, 4315 E. Mississippi, Denver, at 2:30 p.m. on May 7.

The Little Prince

The Little Prince by Rachel Portman will be presented at Lamont School of Music April 20-23 in University of Denvers Newman Center. bit.ly/lamontopera.

Art in Highlands Ranch

Ken Caryl Art Guild Exhibit will be at St. Andrew UMC, 9203 S. University Blvd., Highlands Ranch, from May 5 to June 14.

Vintage Theatre

The Inheritance by Matthew Lopez runs through May 14 at Vintage Theatre, 1468 S. Dayton St, Aurora. Part 1 and Part 2 add up to three hours with intermissions. See website to arrange timing for tickets: vintagetheatre.org.

Aurora Fox

Treasure Island: a New Musical for a New Generation, directed by Nick Sugar will run April 28 to May 21 at Aurora Fox Arts Center. Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. See aurorafox.org.

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Water gardeners to show off ponds | Castlerocknewspress.net - Castle Rock Newspress

Are you looking to add value to your home? If so, then outdoor design is an excellent way to do it. With a few simple changes, you can transform your outdoor space into one that will be the envy of all your neighbors and enhance the overall look and feel of your property. Read on to explore some of the top outdoor design ideas that are sure to increase the value of your home. From adding decorative features like landscaping or water features to making more practical improvements such as installing new fencing or patios, these ideas will help you make the most out of any backyard project. So let's get started!

Installing a deck or patio is one of the best ways to add value and functionality to your outdoor space. Decks are great for entertaining guests and providing additional seating, while patios offer more of an intimate setting. Both options can be constructed from a variety of materials such as wood, composite, and stone. This addition can not only increase curb appeal of your home but also adds an area for outdoor living. When installed correctly and properly maintained, decks and patios can last for decades. And while they may require time and effort to install, the return on investment is worth it.

A well-built deck can be a great addition to any home, providing extra space for entertaining or relaxing. But if your deck is looking a little worse for wear, it may be time to give it a makeover. A fresh coat of paint or stain can really bring life back into an old and worn-out deck, while adding new furniture or decorations can make the space more inviting and elevate the ambience. Additionally, if youre looking for ways to maximize your space, consider building benches or creating planter boxes that can also serve as storage units.

Adding attractive landscaping is one of the most popular outdoor design ideas for homeowners looking to increase the value of their homes. From planting trees or shrubs to using specialty plants or flower beds, there are so many creative ways you can spruce up your outdoor space. Not only does this add beauty and color to your yard, but well-maintained landscaping can also help boost property values by as much as 20%.

Planting shrubs and trees along your property line is a great way to add privacy, block noise from neighbors, and create attractive views. Installing pathways made of brick or stone can also help draw the eye away from any potential problems in the landscape, like unsightly fences or power lines.

Grass Landscaping: An important part of any outdoor design is the grass. Grass adds a natural beauty to your outdoor space, while also providing a soft surface for walking and playing. Installing sod or seed can create an instant green lawn, but its important to choose the right type of grass for your region - some thrive in wetter climates while others do best in dry, sunny areas.

Concrete Landscaping: Along with the natural elements, you can also use concrete to create interesting and unique designs. Using stamped concrete, pavers, or other materials helps bring a more finished look to your outdoor space while also providing an easier surface for walking and maintenance. Adding retaining walls can help contain soil erosion and increase usable space in larger yards.

Adding a water feature is a great way to create an inviting outdoor atmosphere. From ponds and fountains to swimming pools or hot tubs, there are countless ways you can use water in your design. Not only does it add beauty, but it also helps increase the value of your home by making it more attractive to prospective buyers. Additionally, a water feature can be used to create a peaceful and calming atmosphere or to make your outdoor space more entertaining and charming.

Ponds: Adding a pond is one of the most popular ways to add a water feature to your outdoor design. This addition can increase the value of your home while also creating an inviting environment for wildlife. From fish and frogs to turtles and birds, ponds are great for attracting wildlife to your backyard.

Swimming Pools: Swimming pools are perfect for those looking for more of an active water feature. Not only do they provide entertainment during summer months, but they can also be enjoyed year-round in some areas, especially if you have a heated pool. Whether you choose in-ground or above-ground options, swimming pools offer endless possibilities for fun and relaxation.

Hot Tubs: Hot tubs are another popular addition to any outdoor space. They provide a great way to relax after a long day or even entertain friends and family. With so many different styles available, you can find the perfect hot tub to fit your needs and budget.

Lighting is an important aspect of any outdoor design project that should not be overlooked. Not only does it help set the mood for your outdoor living area, but it also provides necessary illumination for safety purposes. From solar-powered lights to string lights or landscape lighting, there are many creative ways you can use lighting in your outdoor area.

Solar-Powered Lights: Solar-powered lights are a great way to add a warm ambiance to your outdoor space without breaking the bank. They operate using energy from the sun and come in a variety of styles and shapes. Plus, they are environmentally friendly!

String Lights: String lights are perfect for creating an inviting atmosphere in your outdoor living area. You can use them to line pathways or hang them around deck railings for a festive look.

Landscape Lighting: Landscape lighting is ideal for emphasizing special features in your yard like trees, flowerbeds, gardens, or water features. There are many different types of landscape lighting available such as flood lights, spotlights, and path lights.

There are many creative ways you can use to design and enhance your outdoor space. From choosing the right types of plants and grasses to adding water features or lighting, there are endless possibilities when it comes to landscaping and creating beautiful outdoor living areas. With careful planning, creativity, and a bit of hard work, you can create an inviting outdoor space that reflects your own unique style.

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The Top 4 Outdoor Design Ideas to Improve Your Home's Value - fine homes and living

This installation is part of a design exhibition in London.

Apr 21, 2023

Acclaimed Artist Recreates Water Lilies From Iconic Bricks| This installation is part of a design exhibition in London.

While LEGO bricks are usually thought of as a toy, there are a myriad of other uses for these colorful interlocking pieces. So much so, that an acclaimed Chinese artist is using them as a medium for some of his greatest work.

Ai Weiwei, an artist and activist, just opened an exhibition at the Design Museum in London, UK, on April 6, reported Euronews. Titled Ai Weiwei: Making Sense, the exhibition features large onsite installations including his Water Lilies #1, the largest artwork made from LEGO bricks. The piece utilized 650,000 LEGO bricks in 22 colors to recreate one of Claude Monet's famous paintings.

In the original painting, Monet depicts the lily ponds in his garden which is seen as a celebration of nature, according to The Smithsonian Magazine. But Ais recreation has a different meaning.

There is a dark spot in the installation, symbolizing a door, put there by the artist as a tribute to his father and the years the family lived in an underground dugout in exile in China. The artist's early life colors the way he sees the world.

Without a personal narrative, artistic narration loses its quality. In Water Lilies #1, I integrate Monets impressionist painting, reminiscent of Zenism in the east, and concrete experiences of my father and me into a digitized and pixelated language, Ai said in a statement.

Toy bricks as the material, with their qualities of solidity and potential for deconstruction, reflect the attributes of language in our rapidly developing era where human consciousness is constantly dividing, he said.

Ai is an artist, architect, filmmaker, designer, and a political activist. His early life steered him in all these directions, reported Euronews.

Ai was born in Beijing, China, in 1957 but grew up in the far northwest of the country where he lived in primitive conditions. Thats because his father, Ai Qing, a famous Chinese poet was denounced by the government and the family was sent to a labor camp where they lived for 16 years.

As harsh as this life was, Ai was exposed to art and literature and this greatly influenced his life choices. After the end of the cultural revolution, the family returned to Beijing where Ai enrolled in the citys film academy. Ai was one of the founders of Stars, an early avant-garde group.

He moved to the US to study in 1981 where he was influenced by the works of contemporary artists like Andy Warhol. Thats when he began creating conceptual art by altering everyday objects, a style he still uses today.

Ai returned to China in 1993 where he worked as an artist and activist and he became an outspoken critic of the Chinese government. He was arrested in 2011 and detained for 81 days. He now lives in the west where his art is a testament to his commitment to social justice.

(Courtesy The Design Museum)

The Making Sense exhibition in the Design Museum is Ais first solo show in eight years. While the Water Lilies installation which is 15 meters long and covers an entire walls the centerpiece, there are dozens of other pieces that explore the themes of past and present and construction and destruction, reported The Guardian.

These include a Han dynasty urn with a Coke Logo and a sculpture of an iPhone cut out of a jade ax head as well as a piece that was made from thousands of fragments of the remains of the sculptures destroyed in 2018 when the Chinese government demolished Ais studio.

According to Euronews, the exhibition also features three works revolving around toilet paper that capture the Covid-19 lockdowns when people became dependent on ordinary objects. The exhibition opened on April 7 and will run through July 30, 2023.

(Courtesy The Design Museum/ Ed Reeve)

Bonnie has dedicated her life to promoting social justice. She loves to write about empowering women, helping children, educational innovations, and advocating for the environment & sustainability.

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TRENTON Governor Phil Murphy today announced a proposed investment of nearly $100 million for projects to develop or update parks and preserve open space, including a new initiative to fund construction of inclusive playgrounds for differently abled children. The funding, announced during Earth Week 2023 through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protections (DEP) Green Acres Program, will enhance the quality of life for residents across New Jersey, especially in many overburdened communities.

The proposed investment includes $92.2 million in funding subject to approval by the Garden State Preservation Trust, and an additional $7.7 million for Urban Parks projects, bringing the total to $99.9 million. The investments are especially timely as this years national Earth Week theme is Invest in Our Planet.

The projects recommended for funding to the independent Garden State Preservation Trust will help build and update New Jerseys outstanding parks, recreation, and open space inventories while providing for construction of inclusive playgrounds, said Governor Murphy. These grants and loans will benefit numerous communities across the state by providing opportunities to engage in healthy activities, enjoy the outdoors, and spend quality family time together.

"From our incredible Green Acres investments in local parks, to our historic investments in the restoration of natural resources throughout the state, the Murphy Administration has put its money where its heart is,said Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette.This Earth Week, with Governor Murphys vision and leadership, we are again investing in our planet with Green Acres awards in every county, accelerating our work to ensure that our neighbors across New Jersey can connect with nature and one another at quality open and recreational spaces."

Green Acres funding allows governments and nonprofits to leverage millions of additional preservation dollars through matching federal, state, county, and local funds, as well as from private sources. For the first time, Green Acres is providing non-matching grants to incentivize projects in Adversely Stressed Overburdened Communities in Urban Aid municipalities.

BY THE NUMBERS

The $92.2 million in projects recommended to the Garden State Preservation Trust includes:

After approval by the Garden State Preservation Trust, the Legislature must formally appropriate the Green Acres funds for these projects that will establish, expand, or revitalize new and existing parks; acquire land; improve waterfront access; develop athletic fields and playgrounds; improve parking lots; create open space; and enhance land stewardship.

In addition to these projects, DEP has approved $7.7 million for park development projects serving Adversely Stressed Overburdened Communities in Urban Aid municipalities, further emphasizing the Murphy Administrations commitment to environmental justice. These communities are so designated because they have a combined stressor total higher than the 50th percentile for total environmental and public health stressors.

Funding for these projects comes from both the DEPs Green Acres Program, funded by the Corporate Business Tax, and the Urban Parks Program, which is funded by a state budget appropriation.

URBAN PARKS PROJECTS

Sixteen municipalities in nine counties have been recommended to receive funding for projects in their communities. Among them:

INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND PROJECTS

New this year, the Green Acres Jakes Law Pilot Program provides 75% matching grant funding to county governments to construct Completely Inclusive Playgrounds in compliance with standards established by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. The eight Completely Inclusive Playground projects recommended for funding are:

GREEN ACRES PROJECTS

Major local projects recommended for matching grants of $1 million or more include:

Atlantic County:

Bergen County:

Cumberland County:

Essex County:

Hudson County:

Mercer County:

Middlesex County:

Passaic County:

Union County:

New Jersey has long been a leader in preserving open space and creating parks. The Green Acres Program, the oldest of its kind in the nation, was created in 1961 as the result of an innovative bond referendum. To date, the Green Acres Program has protected more than 720,000 acres of open space and provided hundreds of recreational facilities around the state.

Green Acres projects create jobs and stimulate economic development by making communities more attractive places to live and work, consequently boosting civic pride. They also improve air and water quality, providing New Jerseyans a better quality of life.

The DEP is a partner in the Governors Population Health Challenge, which calls on state agencies to promote health through their policies. Studies have found that investments in parks and recreational amenities positively impact health and fitness, resulting in less strain on the health-care system. Studies also demonstrate that people are likely to be more physically active if they live close to parks and recreational facilities.

To learn more about the Green Acres Program, visit http://www.NJGreenAcres.org

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Office of the Governor | Governor Murphy Announces Nearly $100 ... - NJ.gov

PRESS RELEASE

Published April 19, 2023

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 19, 2023 / Ximen Mining Corp. (TSXV:XIM)(FRA:1XMA)(OTCQB:XXMMF) (the "Company" or "Ximen") announces that it has received the Final Mines Act Permit for its Kenville Gold Mine project in southeastern BC.

"The Kenville Gold Mine, which began operations in 1888, was one of the first underground gold mines in British Columbia. After years of working on this particular permit, the Kenville Gold Mine is now on track to becoming one of the greenest and environmentally-friendly gold mines in Southern BC. While there is still very much to do, our team's tenacity has brought us this far, and we are ready for the next phase of milestones that will finally bring this gold mine to fruition." States Anderson CEO Ximen Mining Corp.

Ximen Mining Corp's - Kenville Gold Mine - Manager Lloyd Penner

A Mines Act Permit was issued to the Company for the Kenville Mine Project approving the following work:

The permit is comprehensive and includes several conditions for Health and Safety, Geotechnical, Environmental Land and Watercourses, and the Reclamation and Closure Program. Items to be addressed before starting include:

Several other items are required once operations commence, as is typical for permits of this type.

The Company is very happy to have this permit in hand and can finally focus on developing the Kenville gold mine project. Design work for water management infrastructure is underway and the Company is looking forward to starting the mine development and finally getting the project underway.

Photo of ore-type vein material from Kenville.

Photo of rock truck and scooptram to be deployed at Kenville mine.

Technical disclosure in this news release has been approved by Dr. Mathew Ball, P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and VP Exploration for Ximen Mining Corp.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

"Christopher R. Anderson"

Christopher R. Anderson, President, CEO and Director 604 488-3900

Investor Relations:Sophy Cesar,604-488-3900,[emailprotected]

About Ximen Mining Corp.

Ximen Mining Corp. owns 100% interest in three of its precious metal projects located in southern BC. Ximen`s two Gold projects, The Amelia Gold Mine and The Brett Epithermal Gold Project. Ximen also owns the Treasure Mountain Silver Project adjacent to the past producing Huldra Silver Mine. Currently, the Treasure Mountain Silver Project is under an option agreement. The option partner is making annual staged cash and stocks payments as well as funding the development of the project. The company has also in addition acquired 100% interest in the Kenville Gold mine near Nelson British Columbia which comes with surface and underground rights, buildings and equipment.

Ximen is a publicly listed company trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol XIM, in the USA under the symbol XXMMF, and in Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin Stock Exchanges in Germany under the symbol 1XMA and WKN with the number as A2JBKL.

This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the receipt of TSX Venture Exchange approval and the exercise of the Option by Ximen. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "aims," "potential," "goal," "objective," "prospective," and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "can," "could" or "should" occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include the possibility that the TSX Venture Exchange may not accept the proposed transaction in a timely manner, if at all. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's reports, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at http://www.sedar.com for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any state in the United States in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Ximen Mining Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/750054/Ximen-Receives-Final-Mines-Act-Permit-for-the-Kenville-Gold-Mine--Nelson-BC-Canada

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