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More than 40 years since setting up shop in a rented warehouse as the modern worlds first biotech company, Roches Genentech is now up for a major expansion at its South San Francisco home in California.

Tuesday, the local city council approved Genentechs expansion proposal, which aims to almost double its headquarters building space to 9 million square feet from the current 4.7 million square feet.

That extra buildout, all within the boundary of its existing 207-acre campus, allows the Roche unit to add as many as 12,550 employees at the HQ on top of the 10,000 or so who are there right now, according to the master plan (PDF).

Of course, the development wont happen overnight. The company describes it as a vision or guideline for potential future growth, rather than an indication of immediate changes or expansion to the existing campus.

In fact, the blueprint covers 15 years, and the new hiresif they eventually happenwill span the next several decades, the companysaid in the master plan. Plus, construction of any individual new buildings, details for which are expected over the next 20 years or so, will require separate approvals.

RELATED:The top 15 pharma companies by 2026 sales | 1. Roche

The additional building space could be used for a variety of functions including R&D, manufacturing, infrastructure, office, on-campus amenitiesandemployee support, according to Genentech.

Through the level-up, Genentech said it intends to maintain its current ratio of lab-to-office space; they now each makeup roughly one-third of the total building space. As for on-campus manufacturing, which now occupies a little less than 1.3 million square feet, the company expects it to be retained but not substantially expanded, with possibly some potential redesign or reconfiguration. That being said, the master plan intentionally permits some flexibility in how the company allocates space to each function.

As part of the expansion, Genentech expects to shell out more than $250 million in city fees and investment in South San Franciscos transportation, housing and community programs.

RELATED:Roche drops $500M into new global operations hub, with 500 jobs to follow

Genentech settled in South San Francisco in 1978. Thanks to the biotech industry, the city prospered even after its steel industry died. The Genentech site, where Bethlehem Steel used to stand, has already added about 2 million square feet of building space from the previous 2007 master plan to the current 4.7 million square feet.

Aside from the Genentech site, Roche recently unveiled a plan to invest $500 million over five years to establish a global technical operations center at its Canadian pharma headquarters in Mississauga, Ontario.

Read more from the original source:
Roche's Genentech cleared for massive headquarters expansion that will add up to 4.3M square feet - FiercePharma

We all need to take a long, hard look in the mirror and realize that the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is one of us. As we settle into month eight of staying at home, working from home, sheltering in place, quarantining, and every variation of the words that redefined what "normal life" has looked like in the year 2020, we, as a nation, should hold the Norway spruce to the same standards that we hold ourselves to. You know, rolling out of bed and immediately signing into work meetings, jeans collecting dust in the back of our closets what even is a hairbrush? You see where we're going here.

On Nov. 14, the famed Christmas tree arrived at Rockefeller Center after a two-day drive, and people had the audacity to judge its appearance. Sure, she was missing a few branches and immediately got the meme treatment as a stark representation of the year we're all having, but she's doing her best! According to the New York Times, it's normal for the tree to look like this after being wrapped tightly during travel. It will "take the branches time to settle." Also, after arriving in New York City, employees discovered an adorable little owl had been chilling in the branches. It's unknown how long the owl had been in there, but he's now in good hands at a wildlife rehab facility. Just like us, the 2020 tree is going through it!

The "symbol of hope" before the holidays looked more like an anticlimactic shrub straight out of A Charlie Brown Christmas, but let's give our girl some time to freshen up! She'll get her lights, her extensions, her glitz, and her glamour just in time for the Dec. 2 lighting ceremony, the same way we will when we're ready to reenter society. Glow up, girl, we believe in you! Check out some funny reactions to the tree ahead, including one from the Rockefeller Center Twitter account who said it best: "Wow, you all must look great right after a two-day drive, huh? Just wait until I get my lights on! See you on December 2! ;)."

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We're All the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree This Year - POPSUGAR

Prescribed burning by Forest Service. Photo by George Wuerthner

There has been a spate of articles in various newspapers and magazines asserting that if the Forest Service were following burning practices of Indigenous people the large wildfires we have seen around the West would be tamed.

Here are some representative of Indian burning will save the forest articles.

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/oct/23/karuk-tribe-california-slater-fire-insurance

https://www.vox.com/first-person/21517619/california-wildfires-indigenous-controlled-burns

https://www.wweek.com/news/2020/10/07/oregons-indigenous-communities-know-how-to-stop-megafires-will-the-state-let-them/?utm_campaign=2020-10-07+WildNews&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Pew

The October 7th 2020 article Wildfires have ravaged the Western United States this year, sending firefighting experts to Indigenous communities for guidance by Jim Cowan in the New York Times is typical of the erroneous assertions about Native American burning and its influence on large wildfires..

Long before California was California, Native Americans used fire to keep the lands where they lived healthy. That meant intentionally burning excess vegetation at regular intervals, during times of the year when the weather would keep blazes smaller and cooler than the destructive wildfires burning today.

And the Guardian article, like most of these recent publications, implies that the loss of native burning is contributing to large blazes: a century of practicing fire suppression over traditional tribal land stewardship, has led to larger, more destructive wildfires.

The idea that tribal burning impacted the broad landscape is asserted by some scholars (Williams, G.W. 2004), but often with scant evidence to back up these claims except for oral traditions of Native people.

MAJOR ISSUES

MYTH OF INDIAN LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT

As Barrett et al. 2005 noted: For many years, the importance of fire use by American Indians in altering North American ecosystems was underappreciated or ignored. Now, there seems to be an opposite trend. It is common now to read or hear statements to the effect that American Indians fired landscapes everywhere and all the time, so there is no such thing as a natural ecosystem. A myth of human manipulation everywhere in pre-Columbus America is replacing the equally erroneous myth of a totally pristine wilderness.

We believe that it is time to deflate the rapidly spreading myth that American Indians altered all landscapes by means of fire. In short, we believe that the case for landscape-level fire use by American Indians has been dramatically overstated and overextrapolated.

Noss, et al. 2014 asserts: Despite ample evidence that lightning fire was a primary ecological driver in the NACP [North American Coastal Plain], the myth persists that most fires before the arrival of Europeans were set by Native Americans. For example, Mann (2005; 361) provides a map that shows essentially the entire pre-Columbian NACP, including the lightning-riddled Gulf coast and Florida peninsula, as dominated by anthropogenic fire or with widespread forest clearing for agriculture. No evidence is offered to support these claims.

Most evidence for the widespread influence of indigenous burning is based on oral tradition which is notoriously subject to variation of interpretation and misinterpretation.

DID INDIGENOUS BURNING PRECLUDE LARGE BLAZES?

The question is not whether Indian burning occurred, but rather to what extent it influenced the landscape as the whole and precluded the occurrence of large mixed to high severity blazes or what some people term mega fires. Is it a panacea for precluding large blazes as implied? Furthermore, it needs into the notion that high severity blazes are somehow unnatural and ecologically destructive.

The idea that fire suppression has led to some fuel build up in some plant communities is accurate, but fuel build-up is not the primary cause of large high severity blazes. Most of these blazes are burning in plant communities like lodgepole pine, spruce/fire, juniper, and other plant communities that naturally had long intervals between fire events and naturally accumulate fuels. In other words, fuel build-up in these plant communities is completely natural.

Mountain hemlock, like many forest communities has naturally long fire intervals and fuel build up is completely natural in such communities. Photo by George Wuerthner

There is ample evidence that Indian burning had little effect upon the occurrence of large fires on the landscape. Except for some high-use areas, Indian burning did not significantly alter fuels across the landscape; more importantly, it did not preclude larger blazes.

Large mega fires have occurred for thousands of years, and Indigenous burning did not preclude them. Plus, the idea that low severity fires dominated western landscapes ignores the fact that numerous species depend on the high severity snag forests that result from large high severity blazes. The second-highest biodiversity after old growth forests is found in the snag forests and down wood that results from these blazes. These high severity habitats would simply not exist if such Indigenous burning were as successful as advocates suggest

.The snag forest that results from large blazes is critical habitat for many species and has the second highest biodiversity after old growth forests. Photo by George Wuerthner

Indeed, the effectiveness of fire suppression can be questioned. For instance, in the early part of the 20th Century, as much as 50 million acres burned annually in the United States during several drought decades. https://www.nifc.gov/fireInfo/fireInfo_stats_totalFires.html

https://www.nifc.gov/fireInfo/fireInfo_statistics.html

LIVING WITH FIRE

Just as today, wildfire was a natural force that influenced where people lived. One of the ways tribal people lived with fire was to locally reduce fuels so as to safeguard their villages, trading centers, and traditional gathering areas from large dangerous blazes.

This is the model that we should be promoting todayworking from the home outward to reduce local flammability of homes and edge of communities.

Since most tribal people lived in lower elevation landscapes like valley bottoms with grasslands or dry ponderosa pine forests where wildfire was naturally more frequent, Indigenous burning likely favored the continued existence and even expansion of these plant communities.

It is important to note that these community types are often a small percentage of the landscape. For instance, dry montane forests (largely ponderosa pine) make up only 4% of western Montana and northern Idaho. http://www.northernrockiesfire.org/drymont.htm

Pondoersa pine is a common dry forest species. Photo by George Wuerthner

Cultural burning was also done for a variety of other purposes as well. To create favorable conditions for the growth specific plant foods that might be favored by fire, to create fresh new growth of grasses and other plants favored by wildlife like deer, elk or bison. Fires were also used in warfare to burn out enemies that might be hiding in dense brush.Camas roots were among the plants that Indian burning sought to increase. Photo by George Wuerthner

However, the question remains as to whether this cultural burning was sufficient to change fire regimes across the landscape to the point it precluded larger wildfires.

While there is no doubt that Indigenous burning was widely practiced, the idea that cultural burning was a major influence on landscape-scale fire influences is questionable.

There are multiple lines of evidence to suggest that Indian burning likely was local in nature and did not affect the larger landscape.

FUELS DONT DRIVE LARGE FIRES

Perhaps the biggest problem with the Indigenous burning will preclude large blazes is that it feeds into the narrative that fuels are driving the large fires we see around the West. The problem with this explanation is that large fires are primarily climate-weather driven events-and have always been a consequence of climate-weather. There is abundant coloration between extensive drought and large landscape fires. Conversely, during periods of wet, cool climates, there are fewer large blazes.

If you have severe drought, low humidity, high temperatures, and most importantly wind, you get large landscape fires. If you do not have these weather/climate conditions, you get fewer ignitions, smaller fires that mostly self-extinguish.

While Indian burning likely did influence fuel loading in some localized areas, it did not change the basic weather/climate ingredients that drive all large blazes (Whitlock, C et al. 2010).

Furthermore, unless you have these extreme fire weather conditions, you simply will not get large acreages to burn.

CLIMATE/WEATHER DRIVES LARGE BLAZES

First, most cultural burning, like the prescribed fires set today by state and federal agencies, was practiced in the spring and fall when fire spread was limited by moist fuels, high humidity, cool temperatures and when winds are calm. High fuel moisture and cool temperatures limits fire spread. In other words, you will not burn very much acreage. Under such conditions, most fires simply self-extinguish and are difficult to maintain.

Despite the implied notion in some of the above articles that somehow the Forest Service is ignorant of burning practices, this is the same reason federal and state agencies usually do prescribe burning during these seasons.

By contrast, all our larger landscape fires occur during extreme fire weather conditions which is typically in the summer and early fall months. These include extreme drought, low humidity, high temperatures, and most importantly wind.

Why is this important? Because most fires, even natural fires, are small. Unless you have these extreme fire weather conditions, 97-99% of all fires will burn 1-5 acres even if you dont suppress them. Whether the ignitions are from lightning or humans, if you dont have the right weather conditions, you will not burn a significant amount of the landscape.

For instance, a total of 56,320 fires burned over 9 million acres in the Rocky Mountains between 1980-2003. 98% of these fires (55,220) burned less than 500 acres and accounted for 4% of the area burned. By contrast, Only, 2% of all fires accounted for 96% the acreage burned. And 0.1% (50) of blazes were responsible for half of the acres charred. (Baker 2009 Fire Ecology in Rocky Mountain Landscapes).

In another example, between 1972 and 1987 Yellowstone National Park did not suppress backcountry fires. During this period, there were 235 blazes. Of these 222 charred less than 5 acres, and most burned less than 1 acre. And all 235 blazes self-extinguished.

Then in 1988 more than a million acres burned in Yellowstone. Did fuels suddenly balloon overnight to sustain large high severity blazes? The reason Yellowstone burned in 1988 was that it was the driest year on record since the park was established, with humidity as low as 1-2% and winds exceeding 50 mph.

Even large, high severity blazes burn in a mosaic pattern seen here in the aftermath of the 1988 Yellowstone fires. Photo by George Wuerthner

Thus, it would require setting thousands of these small fires when the climate/weather is not conducive for fire spread to burn any substantial amount of the landscape. So, the idea that Indian burning which can be characterized as primarily low severity frequent fires were of sufficient size and scale to affect larger landscapes is questionable just based on the timing of such ignitions.

Native people were wise enough not to purposely set fires in the middle of extreme fire weather. Setting a blaze under conditions with variable high winds, and during a drought was a recipe for disaster because it easily leads to uncontrollable fires that would threaten villages and life.

ECOLOGICAL EVIDENCE

Most of the plant communities in the West tend to naturally have long to very long fire rotations, of many decades to hundreds of years in length. This includes aspen, most fir species, mountain hemlock, western hemlock, west-side Douglas fir, chaparral, sagebrush, juniper-pinyon, lodgepole pine, white pine, western larch, and various spruce species.

This means wildfire historically did not burn in these communities except at infrequent intervals almost always dictated by climate/weather.

During extreme weather conditions, the relative importance of fuels diminishes since all stands achieve the threshold required to permit crown fire development. This is important since most of the area burned in subalpine forests has historically occurred during very extreme weather (i.e., drought coupled to high winds). The fire behavior relationships predicted in the models support the concept that forest fire behavior is determined primarily by weather variation among years rather than fuel variation associated with stand age (Bessie, and Johnson 1995).

Many of these species have few adaptations to withstand frequent fires and would simply not exist if tribal burning affected them.

HISTORICAL EVIDENCE FOR LARGE BLAZES

Though most fire ecologists concede that native burning likely declined after European American settlement due to native population decline resulting from disease, warfare and displacement, there is plenty of evidence for large fires before large scale Euro American occupation.

For instance, in Oregons Willamette Valley most large trees were established after large, high severity fires that occurred long before Euro-American influences on native populations. The 1865 Silverton Fire burned more a million acres of the western Cascades. The 1853 Yaquina Fire burned nearly a half million acres. Recent records from Washington estimate that a series of large fires in 1701 may have burned between 3 and 10 million acres in a single summer. To quote from a recent article on fires in Washington state: 1701 is given as the best estimate for the last devastating fire that occurred throughout Western Washington, a fire that burned an estimated 3 million to 10 million acres. At the upper end of that range, the area is roughly equal to 10 Olympic National Parks. (https://www.pugetsoundinstitute.org/2020/05/western-washington-wildfire-what-are-we-facing-this-year-and-beyond/).

Although individual accounts can vary, the detail of the observer can provide some hint of the accuracy of early accounts. For instance, David Douglas, (for whom Douglas Fir is named) traveled down the Willamette Valley in 1826 carefully noting the vegetation from the Hudson Bay Post at Fort Vancouver across from present day Portland. Douglas reported seeing burnt patches but noted that most were small (Knox and Whitlock 2002).

Peter Skene Ogden noted extensive areas of burns in the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon and attributed it to natives. But there is no way for Ogden to know whether the fires were human ignitions or due to lightning.

On the other hand, numerous travelers who kept meticulous notes like Lewis and Clark and John Fremont seldom mention encountering Indian burning. The absence of evidence is not the same as no evidence, nevertheless, when someone like Lewis and Clark or John Fremont fail to report extensive Indian burning, it does raise a cautionary note about how to interpret historic accounts.

The other consideration is that Douglas, like most people traveling through the landscape, used the Indian trails and natural travel routes, and since human occupation is greatest in such areas, it may provide a bias view of the occurrence of human ignitions. Even today the majority of wildfires occur near roads. Also, since most of these areas were dominated by grasslands and low elevation dry pines where fire is more frequent even today, does not provide support for wider influence of human burning on the landscape.

FIRE STUDY TECHNIQUES GIVE A BETTER LANDSCAPE SCALE PICTURE OF FIRE

Beyond just historic accounts of fires, there is proxy evidence for past fire occurrence. Scientists use various methods to determine the fire history of any location.

The scientific evidence for historic fire regimes is based on a few different methods. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages (Whitlock et al 2004).

The most common method for reconstructing fire history are fire scars, but other methods including use of charcoal and pollen, among other techniques result in different perspectives.

When a fire burns through an area at low severity (i.e. typically does not kill mature trees), it can leave a scar in the surviving trees. The scar eventually heals and is recorded in the tree rings. By examining tree rings, one can count the years between fires, and in some cases even determine the season of the burn. Thisthe most popular method of determining fire histories.

Fire scar on a ponderosa pine. Photo by George Wuerthner

There are, however, some problems with fire scar methods that some researchers believe results in an overestimation of fire frequency and influence (see Baker and Ehle 2001). For more detail on the problems of fire scar historical reconstructions see (Wuerthner 2018) https://www.thewildlifenews.com/2018/07/14/fire-scar-historical-reconstructions-accurate-or-flawed/

Ecologically speaking, from a landscape perspective, it is the larger fires that significantly influence both vegetative communities as well as the fuels available for mega fires.

There have been numerous studies that have looked at Indian burning and its influence on fire regimes. Most work done by fire ecologists who focus on large landscape fires do not find any additive influence from Indigenous burning. Rather climate/weather appears to control periods of significant wildfire activity (Baker W.L. 2002).

In other words, they find evidence for more frequent fires during major droughts and in the immediate area of villages, along major travel corridors, trading centers, and other high use areas, but across the landscape as whole, they do not find evidence that human ignitions were additive to total landscape acreage charred by wildfire.

The best way, in my view, to document whether human ignitions were an important influence for landscape scale fires is to use charcoal or pollen studies. But other techniques such as air photo, General Land Office (GLO) surveys, and even historic accounts of early Euro Americans can also provide insights.

Charcoal studies are a proxy for wildfires that rely on examination of core drillings in lakes and ponds to extract sediments where charcoal from major wildfires are recorded. By examining such cores, researchers can document the larger wildfires in a landscape going back thousands of years.

Pollen from the same core samples also documents the major vegetation present in surrounding lands.

To give another example, one can show that Indian burning was more frequent in the Yosemite Valley where Indian people resided much of the year, but not evidence for wide-spread human burning in the majority of what is now Yosemite Valley or the Sierra Nevada Mountains as a whole (Vale 1998).

For instance, Vachula et al 2019 did a study of Yosemite National Park where historically large Indigenous communities resided. Their research found a direct correlation between climate and the amount of burning on the landscape.

View of Yosemite Valley, Bridalveil Falls and El Capitan. Yosemite NP, CA. George Wuerthner

We analyzed charcoal preserved in lake sediments from Yosemite National Park and spanning the last 1400 years to reconstruct local and regional area burned. Warm and dry climates promoted burning at both local and regional scales

Regional area burned peaked during the Medieval Climate Anomaly and declined during the last millennium, as climate became cooler and wetter and Native American burning declined.

Our record indicates that (1) climate changes influenced burning at all spatial scales, (2) Native American influences appear to have been limited to local scales, but (3) high Miwok populations resulted in fire even during periods of climate conditions unfavorable to fires. However, at the regional scale (< 150 km from the lake), fire was generally controlled by the top-down influence of climate. (Vachula et al 2019)

In another study in the Willamette Valley found that the mean fire interval in Oregons Coast Range was 230 years and the presence of fire sensitive species like Sitka spruce indicates a lack of frequent fire (Knox and Whitlock 2002).

Sitka spruce in Oregons coast range. Fire was infrequent in these forests due to high moisture and cool temperatures. Photo by George Wuerthner

Regarding Indigenous ignitions in the Willamette Valley, Whitlock notes: The idea that Native Americans burned from one end of the valley to the other is not supported by our data, says Whitlock. Most fires seem to have been fairly localized, and broad changes in fire activity seem to track large-scale variations in climate she says. (Fire Science 2010).

In other charcoal study of Washingtons Battle Ground Lake, Megan Walsh (Walsh et al 2008) concluded that Fire frequency was highest during the middle Holocene when oak savanna and prairie were widespread near Battle Ground Lake. She suggests: The vegetation and fire conditions were most likely the result of warmer and drier conditions compared with the present, not from human use of fire (Fire Science 2010).

Hoffman et al. 2016 looked at Indian burning influence in coastal British Columbia and concluded: fires. At the decadal scale, fires were more likely to occur after positive El Nio-Southern Oscillation and Pacific Decadal Oscillation phases and exhibited 30-year periods of synchrony with the negative phase of the Arctic Oscillation. Fire frequency was significantly inversely correlated with the distance from former Indigenous habitation sites.

Though the Karuk and other tribes in northern Californias Siskiyou Mountains assert that their traditional burning precluded large fires, and fire suppression of native burning practices contributed to the large high severity blazes now burning the region. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/oct/23/karuk-tribe-california-slater-fire-insurance

Columbaroil and Gavin (2002) documented that large fires always occurred in the Siskiyou Mountains, primarily due to climate/weather, even during the pre-European period. Fire is a primary mode of natural disturbance in the forests of the Pacific Northwest. Increased fuel loads following fire suppression and the occurrence of several large and severe fires have led to the perception that in many areas there is a greatly increased risk of high-severity fire compared with presettlement forests. To reconstruct the variability of the fire regime in the Siskiyou Mountains, Oregon, we analyzed a 10-m, 2,000-y sediment core for charcoal, pollen, and sedimentological data. The record reveals a highly episodic pattern of fire in which 77% of the 68 charcoal peaks before Euro-American settlement

Biscuit Burn Illinois River Rouge Siskiyou National Forest, Oregon Photo by George Wuerthner

Odion et al. (2004) (Conservation Biology), conducted in a 98,814-hectare area burned in 1987 in the California Klamath region, found that the most fire-suppressed forests in this area (areas that had not burned since at least 1920) burned at significantly lower severity levels, likely due to a reduction in combustible native shrubs as forests mature and canopy cover increases: The hypothesis that fire severity is greater where previous fire has been long absent was refuted by our studyThe amount of high-severity fire in long-unburned closed forests was the lowest of any proportion of the landscape and differed from that in the landscape as a whole (Z = -2.62, n = 66, p = 0.004).

Early timber surveys also record large high severity fires (Leiberg, J. B. 1903).

Contrary studies that presume to substantiate a major influence of Indian burning tend to focus on major village sites, foraging areas, and other areas of high human use where no doubt Indigenous burning was additive to the background fire regime.

Unfortunately, this evidence of increased burning is then extrapolated to the larger landscape where human activities were less frequent. A good example is a study by Kimaszewki -Patterson (2019) who looked at Indian burning in a meadow of the southern Sierra Nevada, and then inferred this represented the fire regime of the southern Sierra Nevada.

This is the same error made by William Cronon in his book Changes in the Land (Cronon 1983) about Indian burning in New England. Cronons conclusions were challenged by Parshall and Forester 2002. The major factor influencing the distribution of fire across New England is climate, which has a direct effect on the physical conditions conducive to fire ignition and spread and an indirect effect on fire through its control on the distribution of vegetation at this spatial scale. We find evidence that other factors exert some control over local fire regimes as well including landforms and their impact on vegetation composition, firebreaks and prevailing winds. Native Americans likely influenced the local occurrence of fire, but their impact on regional fire regimes in New England is not apparent from this or other studies.

More recent review of the evidence by David Foster of the Harvard Experimental Forest came to the deduction that Native American burning was localized (Oswald et al. 2020). The researchers conclude: Our new research, published in the journal Nature Sustainability, tests this human-centric view of the past using interdisciplinary, retrospective science. The data we collected suggest, in New England, this assumption is erroneous.

Our study contradicts the theory that people had significant ecological impacts in southern New England before European arrival. Instead, it reveals that old forests, shaped by climate change and natural processes, prevailed across the region for thousands of years.

The lush green of eastern decidious forests precludes large blazes except during exceptional drought. Photo by George Wuerthner

Read the original:
Indigenous Burning Myths and Realities - The Wildlife News

1. Pay Your Respects At The Reflecting Pools

As you approach the museum, youll arrive first at the outdoor memorial. The memorial pays tribute to those who lost their lives here.

The twin reflecting pools, each nearly an acre, feature the largest man-made waterfalls in North America. The names of the men, women, and children killed in the attacks of September 11, 2001, and February 26, 1993, are inscribed in bronze on the edges of the pools. More people were killed in the 9/11 attacks than in any other attack on American soil. That fateful day also saw the greatest loss of rescue personnel in the history of the country.

This is a place to reflect on name after name, each someones family or friend, and all deserving remembrance.

An audio guide that details the events of 9/11, the victims, and the design of the memorial is available. You can also use the guide to locate the name of a loved one.

One pear tree was discovered still living in the rubble of the towers. With its broken branches and roots, it was dug up and planted outside what is now the museum. It has since flourished among the many other trees that have been planted in the plaza. A plaque declares that the tree is a living reminder of resilience, survival, and rebirth.

See more here:
11 Moving Experiences At The 9/11 Memorial & Museum - TravelAwaits

Keith Vandervort

ELY City Council members received a near-final draft of an ordinance providing for the licensing of short-term rentals. A public hearing is scheduled for next month to allow the public to weigh in before final approval.City Attorney Kelly Klun said the ordinance has been in the works for more than two years. Klun added that consultations with St. Louis County and the Minnesota Department of Health to incorporate their rules and regulations were also part of the ordinance. The citys building official was also consulted in drafting the ordinance.The purpose of the ordinance is to regulate vacation or short-term rentals within the city, and to allow property owners to offer their property for rent for a period of less than 30 days.The draft ordinance stipulates:Property owners are required to obtain a permit from the city for all short-term rentals. A license from the Minnesota Department of Health is required for each short-term rental unit.Short-term rentals are required to pay city lodging taxes.Short-term rental licenses are required in Zones R-1, R-2, RT and SMU (Shoreland Multiple Use). Short-term licenses are not required in C-1 and C-2 and for previously licensed lodging establishments.Occupancy by use of recreational vehicles, tents, garages, sheds, and other structures is not allowed.Limits on occupancy are required.Council members approved the first reading of the short-term rental ordinance on a 5-2 vote. Council members Paul Kess and Angela Campbell voted against the measure.Kess objected to allowing short-term rentals in R-1 Zoning areas.If we allow rentals in these (residential) areas, it changes the character of the neighborhood, he said. There is the potential for constant changeover for people who live right next door. Suddenly there is a short-term hotel right next to you that you have no control over. He also mentioned public safety, traffic, noise, and other disturbance factors in his objections.Kess also asserted that as more and more houses are switched over to short-term rentals, fewer dwellings become available for long-term rental.It is difficult now in Ely to find an apartment, he said. If we allow this to happen everywhere in the citys R-1 districts, it will be more and more difficult to live in Ely.He also noted that the short-term rental ordinance is unfair to the commercial lodging establishments in the city. A public hearing on the proposed ordinance will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 4:30 p.m. in City Hall.

Other businessIn other business, the city council: Approved a recommendation from the Heritage Preservation Commission to accept a retaining wall design for the Pioneer Mine Site. Accepted the Planning and Zoning Commissions recommendation to review the COVID-19 plan for the Ely Winter Festival before allowing the event to be held next February. Accepted the resignation of Adam Borchert from the Ely Police Department. He accepted a similar law enforcement position with the Lake County Sheriffs Department. Approved paying $15,000 to Premier Pyrotechnics for the Fourth of July fireworks in 2021. Approved a temporary liquor license to the Ely Folk School for an event on Dec. 12 at Semers Park. Approved a resolution authorizing the Ely Blue Line Club to apply for a raffle permit.

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Ely zeros in on short-term rental ordinance - Tower Timberjay News

There will be no temporary interstate or state route closures permitted between noon on Wednesday, November 25 through 6:00 a.m. Monday, November 30 in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday

District 47 - West TN NorthernCARROLL COUNTY, SR-22A: Bridge repair in Huntingdon over Brier Creek at LM 0.34 and overCSX Railroad at LM 3.10.Restrictions: Monday, March 9, 2020: SR 22A will be reduced to one lane traffic with a traffic signal system.

DYER, LAKE, OBION COUNTY, SR-78: The resurfacing on SR 78 from SR 103 in Dyer County, through Obion County to south of SR 79 in Lake County will cause temporary lane closures throughout the project.

DYER COUNTY, SR-3 (US-51): The repair of bridges on US 51 (SR 3) over SR 211 in Dyersburg will cause temporary lane closures throughout the project. *Speed limit has been reduced to 55 MPH.

Restrictions: Sunday, July 19, 2020: Traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction with a 12 lane restriction.

DYER COUNTY, SR-3 (US 51): The resurfacing with hot in-place recycling on US 51 (SR 3) from near SR 105 in Dyer County to South Main Street in Obion County.

DYER COUNTY, SR-20: The repair of bridge on US 412 (SR 20) over Hogwallow Road will cause temporary lane closures throughout the project. *Speed limit has been reduced to 55 MPH.

DYER COUNTY, SR-104: The resurfacing on SR 104 from SR 182 to the SR 181 including bridge deck repair will cause temporary lane closures throughout the project.

HENDERSON COUNTY (New Lexington By-Pass): The grading, drainage, construction of bridges and retaining walls, signals and paving on US 412 (SR 459) from US 412 (SR 20) west of Lexington to near SR 22 south of Lexington. Motorists should watch for trucks entering and exiting the roadway.

HENRY COUNTY, SR-54: The grading, drainage, construction of bridges, retaining wall and paving on SR 54 from near Rison Street to near Smith Road. Motorists should watch for trucks entering and exiting the roadway. *Speed limit has been reduced to 35 MPH.

Restrictions: Monday, November 25, 2019: Bridge work on SR 54 at LM 12.02 (Bridge nearest Guthrie) is causing a 10 lane restriction. *Traffic has been shifted to Phase 3 of traffic control.

OBION COUNTY, Future I-69 (Phase 3): Grading, drainage, construction of bridges and paving on future I-69 from west of SR 21 to US 51 (SR 3) will cause possible lane closures throughout the project.

Tuesday, October 13, 2020: Bethlehem Road north from Clifford Rives Road to Lindenwood Road will be closed. Claude Tucker Road north from Cloys Road to Section Line Road will be closed. Detour routes are posted.

District 48 - West TN Middle/Southern

CROCKETT COUNTY, SR-20: The miscellaneous safety improvements on US 412 (SR 20) from near the SR 54 ramp (LM 10.40) to Old SR 20 (South Cavalier Drive) (LM 12.80) may cause possible temporary lane closures both eastbound and westbound.

CROCKETT COUNTY, SR-54: Wednesday, November 11 through Friday, November 13, 6:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.: There will be temporary closures on SR 54 LM 3.00-5.00 for in place resurfacing.

CROCKETT COUNTY, SR-20 (US 412) (Non-TDOT work): Thursday, November 19, through Tuesday, November 24, 7:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and Wednesday, November 25, 7:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.: There will be possible lane closures on SR 20 (US 412) eastbound in Bells, TN at SR 88, for the installation of a turning lane in the median.

HARDIN COUNTY, SR-69: The construction of a Bulb Tee bridge over Doe Creek along with grading, drainage, and paving may cause temporary lane closures on SR 69 at LM 10.06. Motorists should watch for trucks entering and exiting the roadway.

HARDIN COUNTY, SR-142: The miscellaneous safety improvements including high friction surface treatment (HFST) on SR 142 from near Kimberly Lane (LM 5.94) to the Mississippi State Line

(LM 10.44) may cause possible temporary lane closures both east and westbound.

HAYWOOD COUNTY, SR-19 (Brownsville Bypass): The construction of an I-Beam bridge along with grading, drainage, and paving may cause temporary lane closures on SR 19 (Brownsville Bypass) from east of SR 87 to west of Windrow Rd. One lane will remain. Motorists should watch for trucks entering and exiting the roadway. Speed limit is reduced to 45 MPH within the project limits. Shaw Chapel and King Road will be closed at SR 19 and a detour put in place on August 27, 2020.

HENDERSON COUNTY, SR-20: The resurfacing with hot in-place recycling on US 412 (SR 20) from Crucifer Road to near Sea Horse Drive will cause temporary lane closures daily.

HENDERSON COUNTY, SR-20: The resurfacing with hot in-place recycling on US 412 (SR 20) from east of SR 22 to near the Chesterfield By-Pass, including bridge expansion joint repair and thin epoxy overlay will cause temporary lane closures daily.

MADISON COUNTY, I-40: The widening of I-40 east of US 45 (SR 5) MM 82.0 to east of US 70

(SR 1) MM 87 in Jackson, including bridges, retaining walls and installation of TDOT Smartway Intelligent Transportation System.

Wednesday, November 18 through Tuesday, November 24, 7:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: I-40 east and westbound will have intermittent nightly left and right lane closures for widening activities from east of US 45 (SR 5) (MM 82) to east of US 70 (SR 1) (MM 87).

LOOK AHEAD

Monday, November 30, at 7:00 a.m.: Traffic control for Bridge Demolition on Campbell St. over I-40 will be installed. A temporary traffic signal will be utilized to control traffic.

Monday, November 30 through Wednesday, December 2, 7:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: I-40 east and westbound will have intermittent nightly left and right lane closures for widening activities from east of US 45 (SR 5) (MM 82) to east of US 70 (SR 1) (MM 87).

Wednesday, December 2 through Wednesday, December 9, 7:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: I-40 east and westbound will have intermittent nightly left and right lane closures for widening activities from east of US 45 (SR 5) (MM 82) to east of US 70 (SR 1) (MM 87).

Friday, December 4, 7:00 p.m. through Monday, December 7, 6:00 a.m.: I-40 east and westbound at Exit 83 will be detoured onto the ramps at Campbell St. and the Campbell Street bridge will be closed for Phase 1 bridge demolition. A detour will be posted for Campbell Street traffic.

MADISON COUNTY, SR-186 (US 45 Bypass) and I-40: Interchange improvements on SR 186 (US 45) north and southbound from the I-40 ramps to Old Hickory Blvd for paving and construction of retaining walls. Widening of I-40 from just east of Exit 79 to just east of Exit 82.

Thursday, November 19 and Friday, November 20, 9:00 a.m.3:00 p.m.: SR 5 (Highland avenue) will have intermittent left and right lane closures both north and southbound from Vann Drive to the Carriage House/Ridgecrest intersection for bridge construction activities.

Saturday, November 21, 6:00a.m.-6:00 p.m.: SR 5 (Highland Avenue) will have intermittent left and right lane closures both north and southbound from Vann Drive to the Carriage House/Ridgecrest intersection for bridge construction activities.

Monday, November 23 and Tuesday, November 24, 9:00 a.m.3:00 p.m.: SR 5 (Highland Avenue) will have intermittent left and right lane closures both north and southbound from Vann Drive to the Carriage House/Ridgecrest intersection for bridge construction activities.

LOOK AHEAD

Monday, November 30 through Wednesday, December 2, 9:00 a.m.3:00 p.m.: SR 5 (Highland Avenue) will have intermittent left and right lane closures both north and southbound from Vann Drive to the Carriage House/Ridgecrest intersection for bridge construction activities.

MADISON COUNTY, SR-186: The resurfacing on US 45BP (SR 186) from Channing Way to Passmore Lane Overpass, including bridge expansion joint repair and thin epoxy overlay.

Wednesday, November 18 through Friday, November 20, 7:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: Intermittent lane closures north and southbound for resurfacing on US 45BP (SR 186) from Channing Way (LM 4.40) to Passmore Lane Overpass (LM 8.18).

Friday, November 20, 7:00 p.m., through Monday, November 23, 6:00 a.m.: Intermittent lane closures both north and southbound on US 45BP (SR 186) from Channing Way (LM 4.40) to Passmore Lane Overpass (LM 8.18) for bridge work.

MCNAIRY COUNTY, SR-57: The resurfacing with hot in place recycling on SR 57 from the Ramer City Limits to the Hardin County Line, including bridge expansion joint repair will cause intermittent lane closures daily.

TDOT District 48 MAINTENANCE:

Wednesday, November 18 through Tuesday, November 24, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.: There will be possible lane closures at various locations in Region IV in order to repair pavement on an as needed basis.

Wednesday, November 25, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.: There will be possible lane closures at various locations in Region IV in order to repair pavement on an as needed basis.

Madison County, SR 186 (US45 Bypass): Saturday, November 21, 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.: There will be intermittent lane closures on SR 186 (US45 Bypass) southbound at the intersection of SR 1 (Airways Blvd.) for paving operations.

District 49 - West TN Southwest

FAYETTE COUNTY, SR-196: The repair of bridge over Shaw Creek will cause a lane closure with temporary traffic signal near MM 7.0.

LAUDERDALE COUNTY, SR-19: The resurfacing with hot-in-place recycling on SR 19 from near Eastland Avenue to Haywood County Line will cause temporary lane closures daily.

SHELBY COUNTY, SR-3: Resurfacing on SR 3 (Union Ave) from Bellevue Blvd to BB King Blvd.Wednesday, November 18 through Tuesday, November 24, 6:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: There will be intermittent lane closures on SR 3 east and westbound between Bellevue Blvd and B.B. King Blvd for asphalt paving operations. One lane in each direction will remain open. Weather Permitting.

LOOK AHEAD:

Monday, November 30 and Tuesday, December 1, 6:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: There will be intermittent lane closures on SR 3 east and westbound between Bellevue Blvd and B.B. King Blvd for asphalt paving operations. One lane in each direction will remain open. Weather Permitting.

SHELBY COUNTY, SR-4: Widening on SR-4 from the Mississippi state line to Shelby Drive

Friday, November 20 through Sunday, November 22, 7:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: There will be a right lane closure on northbound Lamar Ave (SR-4, LM 0.8) beginning south of the Holmes Road intersection to Shelby Dr (LM 1.48), for overlaying the existing northbound lanes. One lane in each direction will remain open. Weather Permitting.

Monday, November 23 and Tuesday, November 24, 7:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: There will be intermittent lane closures om northbound and southbound Lamar Ave (SR4), beginning at the Mississippi state line to Shelby Dr, for the purpose of relocating traffic from Phase 1 to Phase 2. One lane in each direction will remain open. Weather Permitting.

SHELBY COUNTY, SR-14: Resurfacing on SR 14 from the Mississippi State Line to SR 175

Thursday, November 19 through Tuesday, November 24, 5:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.: There will be temporary lane closures on SR 14 (Third Street) north and southbound for resurfacing. One lane will remain open in each direction.

Wednesday, November 25, 5:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.: There will be temporary lane closures on SR 14 (Third Street) north and southbound for resurfacing. One lane will remain open in each direction.

SHELBY COUNTY, SR-14: The grading, drainage, construction of concrete Bulb-Tee and I-beam bridges, signals and paving on SR 14 from east of Old Covington Pike to SR 385 will cause possible lane closures throughout the project. *Speed limit has been reduced to 45 MPH.

SHELBY COUNTY, SR-14: Construction on SR 14 for a widening project from SR 385 to east of Kerrville Rosemark Rd. There will be possible temporary lane closures throughout the project. Access to SR-14 from McCalla Rd West will be permanently detoured to Donnell Rd. *Speed limit has been reduced to 45 MPH.

SHELBY COUNTY, SR-205: The addition of turn lanes on SR 205 (Airline Rd) from Brooks River Drive to south of I-40Thursday, November 19 through Tuesday, November 24, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.: There will be intermittent lane closures on SR 205 north and southbound from Brooks River Drive (LM-15.75) to just south of I-40 (LM-16.07) to perform temporary road widening work. There will be one lane traffic with flaggers present at times. *Speed limit has been reduced to 35 MPH. Weather Permitting.

SHELBY COUNTY, SR-385: The resurfacing of SR 385 from MM 34.0 to MM 35.0

Wednesday, November 18 through Tuesday, November 24: INTERMITTENT lane closures on SR 385 east and westbound from MM 34.0 to MM 35.0 for resurfacing activities.

TDOT District 49 MAINTENANCE:

Thursday, November 19 through Tuesday, November 24, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.: There will be possible lane closures on all interstates and state routes in District 49 for routine maintenance activities on an as needed basis.

Wednesday, November 24, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.: There will be possible lane closures on all interstates and state routes in District 49 for routine maintenance activities on an as needed basis.

TDOT District 49 On-Call Guardrail/Concrete Barrier Rail Repair:

Wednesday, November 18 through Tuesday, November 24, 8:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: There will be night time lane closures at various locations on SR 3 (Shelby County), SR 14 (Shelby County), I 40 (Fayette and Shelby Counties), I 269 (Fayette and Shelby Counties), I 55 and I 240. One lane will be CLOSED to repair damaged guardrail. THP will assist with traffic control. Weather Permitting.

Thursday, November 19 through Tuesday, November 24, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., and Wednesday, November 25, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.: There will be daytime lane closures at various locations on

SR 195, MM 3.0-MM3.4 (Fayette County), SR 3, MM 10.0MM 24.0 (Lauderdale County), SR 206,

MM 2.3 (Tipton County), and on SR 59, MM 20.6 (Tipton County). One lane will be closed. Flagmen will be used to direct traffic. Weather Permitting.

Wednesday, November 18 through Tuesday, November 24, 8:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: There will be nighttime ramp closures in Shelby County at the I 55 southbound EXIT 5A Off ramp to eastbound Brooks Rd and the I 55 southbound EXIT 7 On ramp from SR 14. Weather permitting. If weather prohibits, the closures will be on the next available night.

LOOK AHEAD:

Monday, November 30 and Tuesday, December 1, 8:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: There will be nighttime ramp closures in Shelby County at the I 55 southbound EXIT 5A Off ramp to eastbound Brooks Rd and the I 55 southbound EXIT 7 On ramp from SR 14. Weather permitting. If weather prohibits, the closures will be on the next available night.

TDOT District 49 On-Call Sweeping and Drain Cleaning

Wednesday, November 18 and Thursday, November 19, 8:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: There will be nighttime lane closures on I-55 southbound from Hickory Hill to the Mississippi State line (MM 4.0 to 0.0) and I-240 north and southbound from I-40 to I-40 (MM 13.0 to MM 26.0) for the purpose of drain cleaning. Weather Permitting.

LOOK AHEAD:

Monday, November 30 through Wednesday, December 2, 8PM6AM: There will be nighttime lane closures on I 240 north and southbound from I 40 (MM 13.0 to MM 26.0) for the purpose of drain cleaning. Weather Permitting.

TDOT District 49 Random On-Call Signing of various Interstates and State Routes

Monday, November 30 and Tuesday, December 1, 8:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: There will be nighttime ramp closures in Shelby County on I 40 eastbound EXIT 1A On ramp from Third Street and I 40 eastbound Exit 1B to Danny Thomas Boulevard to install new overhead signs. THP will assist with traffic control. Weather Permitting.

Monday, November 30 and Tuesday, December 1, 8:00 p.m.-6:00 a.m.: There will be two lanes closed at various locations on I 40 east and westbound in Shelby County, MM 0.8MM 1.5, and one lane closed from MM 3.8MM 6.8 to install new overhead signs. THP will assist with traffic control. Weather Permitting.

From your desktop or mobile device, get the latest construction activity and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras at http://www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 from any land-line or cellular phone for travel information, or follow us on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/TN511 for statewide travel or for West Tennessee follow https://twitter.com/NicLawrenceTDOT.

As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for your destination. Drivers should never tweet, text or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.

In 2016, the Tennessee Department of Transportation lost three workers in the line of duty. All three were struck by passing motorists. Those tragedies bring the total number of TDOT lives lost to 112. We dont want to lose another member of our TDOT family. Were asking you to WORK WITH US. Click on the WORK WITH US logo to learn more.

More:
West Tennessee Weekly Construction November 18-25, 2020 - tn.gov

Home Design

One silver lining of spending more time at home? Dozens of new renovation ideas. Start your next remodeling adventure with our 2021 guide to the regions top designers, builders, makers, and shops, specially curated to help you transform the spaces that matter most.

SLC Interiors/Photo by Read McKendree/JBSA

High-End Remodeling, SouthCambridgeport Construction

Randy Milburns background in church restoration combined with Jim Burkes degree in mechanical engineering shines brightly in Cambridgeport Constructions stellar portfolio of renovations. Remodels, which include a cleverly transformed Georgian-style house in Brookline with a cedar-clad dry sauna, exude unfussy elegance and gorgeous craftsmanship inside and out. The icing on the cake? Architects confide that Cambridgeport Constructions operation is leaner than that of flashier firms, resulting in less cumbersome paperwork for homeowners and better value all around.

cambridgeport.com.

Cambridgeport Construction; interior design by Kate Coughlin Interiors/Photo by Sarah Winchester Studios

High-End Remodeling, BostonFBN Construction

These revered builders deliver the complete package. Bob Ernst, who has served as the Boston companys president since 1995, has been known to personally walk potential clients through every line item of a bid. Plus, dedicated onsite foremen ensure quality work (column-adorned bathrooms, gleaming custom kitchens, party-ready wraparound decks) and maximum efficiency throughout the renovation process. Designers value FBNs collaborative approach, while homeowners appreciate the weekly meetings that keep them abreast of budgets and timelines. One designer noted, I never walked on site to find a surprise. We believe it.

fbnconstruction.com.

High-End Remodeling, NorthPremier Builders

Premier Builders Ken Kumph treats every job, large and small, with equal attention, and his way of doing business trickles down. Crew members are not only attentive, punctual, and respectful, but a pleasure to chat with whether youre after a simple bathroom upgrade or a full-home renovation. Bonus: The companys robust in-house woodshop turns out artisanal-level architectural millwork and custom cabinetry, so you can rest assured that your projects finishing touchesfrom coffered ceilings to luxe built-inswill be handled with the same care and precision.

premierbuildersinc.net.

High-End Remodeling, WestKistler & Knapp Builders

Principals Rene West and Douglas Stevenson of Kistler & Knapp build to impress, carrying on the tradition of the 42-year-old companys now-retired founders. Case in point: a sprawling farmhouse in Sudbury with a stone-clad exterior, vaulted ceilings, and exposed beams. And then theres the church turned condo in the South End, complete with arched custom windows, which speak to the groups technical expertise. Theres nothing, it seems, this well-loved firm cant do.

kistlerandknapp.com.

Custom FurnitureSaltwoods

For the team at Saltwoods, crafting tables, benches, and kitchen islands isnt just about giving customers beautiful, one-of-a-kind furniture. Its about a connection between client, craftsmen, and the planet. It starts with materialsoften reclaimed oak sourced from downed trees or centuries-old deserted barnsthat, as finished pieces, display the geographic coordinates of their source. The level of care and attention to detail doesnt stop there, though: The same craftsmen who built your piece will also personally deliver it to your home.

saltwoods.com.

Colin Flavin/Courtesy photo

Illustration by Holly Wales

Custom Window TreatmentsJ&I Custom Drapes and Upholstery

Theres a reason this small workroom in Lynn, operated by a mother-daughter duo with decades of experience, is beloved by local homeowners and design pros alike. J&Is bespoke creations include classic valances with intricate pleating, quirkier numbers with fringe, and elegant panels in brilliant patternsall sold alongside decorative rods and essential hardware to help complete the look. Plus, not only will the team design and craft any treatment your heart (or window) desires, theyll come to your home to install the one-of-a-kind piece, too.

gotcustomdrapes.com.

Decorative PainterPatina

For Pauline Curtiss, every facet of an interior is a canvas. She can add stenciled motifs, abstract graffiti explosions, and serene landscapes anywhere you let her (hello, two-story statement foyer). Working closely with her small team, this RISD grad turns bare floors into rugs, walls into rich suede, and wood into tile. Shell even camouflage a bedside table to disappear against your bedroom wall. Extra points for her gorgeous porcelain dinnerware, adorned with delicate, hand-sketched patterns.

patina-designs.com.

FabricsZimmans

Overflowing with bins and never-ending displays, this family-owned, 40,000-square-foot textile emporium will leave you swooning over the possibilities. About a million yards of fabric, all bought straight from mills, run the gamut: Unique cottons, sumptuous Belgian linens, rich leathers, and delicate silks, just to name a few, all have a place hereto say nothing of the treasure trove of trims, discount fabrics, and hardware youll find in the shops large basement.

zimmans.com.

FireplacesCommonwealth Fireplace

Whether youre fired up about a wood-burning stove or would rather remote-click to set a gas model ablaze, these Norwood experts help up your flame game. Their 4,800-square-foot showroom is a creative hotbed of some 50 lit fireplace and stove displays from the likes of Mendota, HearthStone, and Pacific Energy. And service will make you feel warm and fuzzy, too: Once they convert your existing hearth with inserts or install a completely new unit, theyll explain the safest, most efficient way to run it to last.

commonwealthfireplace.com.

Hardwood FlooringApex Hardwood Floors

Theres nothing quite like the gleam of hardwood floorsand no one quite like James Du and his team to sand, refinish, repair, or install them for you. Consistently praised by clients for their professionalism, craftsmanship, and top-notch communication skills, the Revere-based crew handily works with a range of wood types and custom finishes, laying down new planks and breathing life into tired ones with equal care and attention.

apexfloorllc.com.

Home AccentsNeatly Nested

If ever you were tempted to judge a book by its cover, youd be right to do it in the case of this Southie dcor shop, curated by interior designer Danielle McClure. The smorgasbord of pieces youll discover insidefrom handwoven baskets to rattan pendant lights to tassel-adorned pillowsis just as charming as its exterior, equipped with a yellow-and-white awning and a teal front door. Swing by in person or shop online for soft Dash & Albert rugs, chic tabletop wares, and folding mango-wood stools.

neatlynestedboston.com.

Home Gym EquipmentPrecision Fitness Equipment

Heres a thing you didnt know about Bruins goaltender Tuukka Rask: He trains on cardio and strength machines from Precision Fitness Equipment, headquartered in Framingham. Why? Perhaps its because of the staff who guide customers (famous and not) toward the right bench, elliptical, or interactive recumbent bike from brands such as Powerblock, Matrix, and WaterRower, while sharing advice on proper use. Or maybe its because the team offers design consultations, transforming lackluster home gyms into inviting spaces with members-only vibes. Either way, youre in good company.

precisionfitnessequipment.com.

WallcoveringsDebsan The Decorating Store

When you have the countrys largest selection of sample books (900, for those counting), clearly you can help impart a wow factor to any space. And thats exactly what owner Ben Greenberg and his team do. With intimate knowledge of designer collections, theyve even been known to find prints for some of the areas tough-to-style period homes. Get your feet wet with an accent wall in your powder room or cover every square inch of your home office with offerings from Thibaut, Schumacher, Waverly, and more.

debsan.com.

Wine Cellar ContractorBoston Wine Cellar Designs

Need a safe home for your prized Chteau Latour or Leeuwin? Brian Wilson has been pouring over the citys most refined wine cellars for some 25 years. From straightforward spaces (cases below, bottles above) to more elaborate schemes with grand stone arches and tasting tables, his vino-storage solutions are magnificent. Design speaks loudly, while Wine Guardian climate systems are whisper-quiet. Cheers to enjoying your winenot worrying about it.

bostonwinecellars.com.

Sashya Thind/Photo by Joyelle West

You feel incredibly fortunate to work from home but could really use a change of scenery. Sound familiar? Read on for a few easy ways to refresh your workspace, courtesy of Ideate Design Studios Sashya Thind.

Let There Be LightTheres no substitute for natural lightespecially in an environment where youre potentially working eight hours or more a day. Find a sunny spot, and if you have a view of the outdoors, go for it.

Pick a Good ChairWorking from home has its perks, but we all know that we end up spending way more time sitting at our desks than we would if we were traveling to an office. An ergonomic chair is more comfortable and can reduce back pain. Some great brands that we recommend to our clients are Herman Miller, Steelcase, and Haworth, which have multiple models you can test.

Get OrganizedBeing able to put stuff away at the end of the day leads to a space that is peaceful and welcoming the next morning. A small file cabinet on castors, for instance, can tuck under the desk to store extra stationery, pens, and files. Cable management is also important to hide unsightly wires.

Dont Forget to DecorateDisplaying art or framed photographs immediately creates a warm and inviting space. A fresh coat of paint can transform a room, toojust make sure you go with uplifting colors instead of dark, saturated ones.

Illustration by Holly Wales

CW Design/Photo by Lara Kimmerer

Bathroom DesignerCW Design

Clean-lined console vanities. Meticulous tilework. Freestanding soaking tubs, bathed in natural light. With equal weight placed on function and form, designer Cassia Wyner conjures sophisticated bathrooms that feel as good as they look, combining elegant fixtures and thoughtful finishes to undeniably blissful effects. Plus, her customer-service record is unparalleled. As one scroll through ample glowing reviews will attest, its not just Wyners design and problem-solving skills that make clients happy; its her approachability, organization, and attentiveness, as well.

cwdesignllc.com.

CabinetryBespoke of Winchester

Between remote learning and daily Zoom calls, your kitchen is getting a lot more action than usual. Bring order to the chaos with an assist from Bespoke of Winchester. Made in Revere, their custom cabinets hide appliances and cookware, while their cantilevered shelves (equipped with integrated lighting) showcase impressive barware collections and delicate dishware. Need a pick-me-up? Ask the crew to install mood-boosting pink racks for a pop of color.

bespokeofwinchester.com.

FixturesThe Inspired Bath

After perusing the rain showers and touchless faucets, youll leave this Waltham-based showroom with a long list of kitchen-and-bath must-haves. Offering top brands such as Grohe and Kohler, the Inspired Bath provides all the essentials youd ever dream of, as well as innovative add-ons including sparkling-water taps. Opt for the Amazon-powered smart mirror to turn down the lights via voice-command while you unwind in your new soaking tub. Alexa, more bubbles, please.

theinspiredbath.com.

HardwareMack Designer Hardware

This four-year-old Burlington shop may be a relative newcomer to the scene, but the staff at Mack Designer Hardware have decades of experience. The talented team can deftly walk you through their various brands (Rocky Mountain Hardware, Formani) to find the perfect style and finish for your space. With Macks massive selection of handles, locks, door hinges, and more, we wont blame you for stopping by for a simple cabinet latchand leaving with crystal pulls and a quartz doorknob.

mackdesignerhardware.com.

Stone FabricatorThe Granite Place

The pros at the Granite Place think of themselves as artistsand after working with them, youll agree. Their finely cut Italian marble islands will add a sleek look to your kitchen, while their Cambria quartz counters will create luxe vibes in the bathroom. And best of all, their fireplace surroundscrafted from heat-resistant granitewill have you looking forward to winter in New England (really).

thegraniteplaceinc.com.

TileLaFauci Tile & Marble

Drive to Watertowns Tile Milea popular stretch of shops near the Charlesand keep your foot on the gas until you reach LaFauci Tile & Marble. When you step inside the showroom, youll first be dazzled by the myriad marble, porcelain, and glass options (think: Moroccan-inspired cement mosaics and Terra Bella waterjet masterpieces) for your floors and walls. But youll be even more impressed when you confuse your own bathroom for a spa once the team installs whatever goodies you choose.

lafaucitile.com.

Venegas and Company/Photo by Michael J. Lee

Kitchen DesignerVenegas and Company

Whats the recipe for a beautifully designed kitchen? A functional layout, sleek cabinetry, gorgeous stonework, and carefully selected finishes to tie everything together. Thats how Venegas and Company achieves their stunning results, at least. Considering all of your needs (double islands, pantries, Teppanyaki cooktops), owner Donna Venegas and her team have been whipping up crowd-pleasing schemes since 2009. Among their recent successes? A revamped 19th-century space boasting blue-gray cabinets, a porcelain-clad hood to match the countertops and backsplash, and a hidden coffee bar.

venegasandcompany.com.

Arazi Levine Design/Photo by Joyelle West

Transitional ArchitectArazi Levine Design

Israel-born Dana Arazi Levine has amassed quite the following since establishing her Boston studio in 2017and its easy to see why. The pros schemes showcase an impressive blend of architectural training and killer interior-design instincts, resulting in spaces that feel both timeless and contemporary. Take, for instance, this issues feature on a historical Back Bay condo [page 50], whichthanks to Levines thoughtful interventionpairs resized rooms, scaled for how we live today, with classic details like molding and mahogany paneling.

Transitional Interior DesignerAna Donohue InteriorsGazing at a space designed by Ana Donohue is a little like visiting an exciting new exhibition at your favorite museumyouve got no idea where to look first. But thats a good thing. Full of personality and texture, every facet of the Oklahoma natives thoughtfully layered interiorsfrom the carefully selected furnishings, upholstered in hard-to-ignore hues like emerald and lime green, to the bold artwork that ties her rooms togetherdemands (and deserves) attention.

Michael DAngelo Landscape Architecture; architecture by Flavin Architects/Photo by Nat Rea

Landscape ArchitectMichael DAngelo Landscape Architecture

Trust us when we say that landscape architect Michael DAngelo is a force of nature. Able to work in a variety of settings, the University of Rhode Island grad counts a tiered yard in Cohasset, beautifully connected to the rocky coastline, and a bamboo-laden roof top in the South End among his many fine creations. And no plan is too extravagant for DAngelo. Need proof? Consider a forthcoming Brookline scheme, outfitted with lush plantings, a rejuvenating sauna, and a terrace for at-home yoga sessions.

m-d-l-a.com.

Landscape Design/Build, BostonPerennial Gardens

These days, having access to a private green space is more of a luxury (or, dare we say, a necessity) than ever. Thats where Perennial Gardens comes in. In addition to designing and installing plantings and patios at sprawling estates, the firm has a particular knack for revitalizing petite urban gardens and rooftops. Equipped with an eye for color and scale, an understanding of irrigation systems and environmental conditions, and, occasionally, a crane to help out on installation day, principal Ellen Abdow and team create lush oases with luxe features such as custom outdoor kitchens.

perennialgardens.net.

Landscape Design/Build, NorthAndover Landscape Design and Construction

Tap the pros at Andover Landscape and youll have it all: a garden blooming with perennials, a lap pool to keep you active, and a bluestone patio equipped with a fire pit for roasting marshmallows. Founder John Nardozza and architect Russell Stottalong with masons, arborists, and electricianshave a hand in every step of the transformation, from the first rendering drawn to the last shrub pruned. Plus, theyll plant an herb garden so you can spice up home-cooked meals.

andoverlandscape.com.

Landscape Design/Build, SouthMainStay Landscape

Everyones idea of outdoor heaven looks a little different. Luckily, this Westwood-based team wields the know-how to create just about any open-air hangout you can imagine, from private but roomy urban patios to colorful wildflower meadows bordering beachfront pools. But the small firm, founded by green-industry vet Jay MacMullan in 2015, doesnt win our vote for its beautiful spaces alone; the crews extensive horticultural knowledgenot to mention its first-rate maintenance servicesare equally divine.

mainstaylandscape.com.

Landscape Design/Build, WestA Blade of Grass

Youve got a beautiful home, but youre lacking the landscape to match it. Its a tale as old as time for the pros at a Blade of Grass, who know a thing or two about solving a predicament like this one. Take, for example, a stately home in Wayland that the crew enhanced with a series of patios, surrounded by manicured greenery and flowers. Theres also the decidely Instagrammable poolside in Carlisle, complete with a sculptural pergola. Wed call those success stories.

abladeofgrass.com.

Custom Outdoor FurnitureJanus et Cie

For four-plus decades, Janus et Cies creative, contemporary designs (a pod-like chaise lounge, for example) have transformed many an outdoor space. It should be no surprise then that there are very few limitations to what the Design Center standout can create beyond its collections, too. Want to take a sofa from the existing stock and change the size, fabric, and finish? Easy as pie. Plus, those with more traditional tastes can turn to the showroom for exclusive pieces by Maine-based Weatherend Estate Furniture, which uses boat-building techniques to craft custom wooden pieces.

Original post:
Best of Boston Home 2021: Our Guide to the Region's Top Home Experts - Boston magazine

Staff reports| Herald Democrat

It may be Thanksgiving week, but that will not stop the Texas Department of Transportation from continuing its work on area roads. The crack sealing operations in Grayson County will continue this week as will the work on U.S. Highway 75.

"These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues," a news release from the department said. "Motoristsare advised toremain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones."

As always, the department asks drivers to, "avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems."

The following projects are scheduled for the week of Nov. 23-27.

The annual contract to perform crack sealing operations in Grayson County is in progress. Daytime lane closures will be present during crack sealing operations and drivers should expect delays. The following roadways in Grayson County will be crack sealed this year; Business US 377D in Tioga, Business US 377C in Collinsville, SH 289 from the Collin County line to US 82, FM 996 from FM 120 to FM 1417, SH 91 from US 75 to FM 1310, the US 82 frontage road in Sherman, FM 120 from FM 1753 to the Oklahoma State line, FM 1897 from US 69 to the end of State maintenance, FM 898 from SH 11 to the Fannin County line, FM 121 from FM 3356 to SH 289, FM 120 in Pottsboro from Chrissa Drive to Vine Street, and the US 75 frontage roads from FM 902 to the Collin County line.

US 75, Grayson County: from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on northbound and southbound US 75 between Center Street and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes and the new South Travis Street Bridge. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91 as crews work on building detours and installing drainage structures. The northbound exit ramp for Houston and Lamar Streets (SH 56) is currently closed, and exiting traffic is requested to use the Park Avenue exit ramp. The southbound exit ramp for Park Avenue is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Houston/Lamar Street (SH 56) exit. The northbound frontage road from South Travis Street to near Park Avenue is closed for crews to work on building the remaining portion of the retaining wall along US 75 at the South Travis Street intersection. Traffic is requested to use the US 75 mainlanes during this closure. The southbound Washington Street exit ramp is currently closed, and exiting traffic is requested to use the North Travis Street exit. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.

The US 75 pedestrian bridge near Pecan Street in Sherman is closed to pedestrian traffic. The east side over the frontage road has been removed. The remaining pedestrian bridge will be removed at a later time. Pedestrians wishing to cross US 75 are advised to cross at the Houston Street signalized intersection.

US 75 Full Depth concrete repair, Grayson County: Crews will be working on US 75, weather permitting, each week from Sunday night through Thursday night. Lane closures will be present during the nighttime only in order for crews to replace failed concrete slabs. Lane closures begin at 7:30 p.m. and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m.

FM 1417, Grayson County: from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for lane shifts and shoulder closures between US 82 and SH 56 while crews are working to construct a portion of the new Sand Creek bridge and the approaches to the bridge. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews perform utility work. A reduced speed limit of 45 mph has been set for this construction project.

FM 121, Grayson County: from Jim Jones Road to FM 3356. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to build portions of the new bridges and roadway. Watch for lane shifts and narrow lanes throughout the project as crews have moved traffic to the temporary detour section. The ultimate roadway will be a five-lane section consisting of concrete pavement when the project is completed.

US 377, Grayson County: Willis Bridge at the Oklahoma State line. Watch for occasional lane closures on the existing bridge as workers pour concrete for the new bridge structure.

US 75 Ramp Reversal in Denison, Grayson County: on the southbound US 75 main lanes and frontage road between Spur 503 and FM 691. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures on the southbound US 75 frontage road while construction crews work on completing the remainder of the project. A new traffic pattern has been implemented where westbound Spur 503 will be shifted to the southbound US 75 frontage road and will travel through the FM 691 intersection and then enter southbound US 75 using the on-ramp after FM 691. The new FM 691 exit ramp is open to access FM 691.

US 377, Grayson County: from US 82 to FM 901. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install safety treatments on fixed objects.

US 75 debris pickup, Grayson County: from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday during the daytime.

US 82 & US 69, Grayson County: from FM 131 to FM 1897 on US 82, and from SH 56 to US 75 on US 69. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install safety treatments on fixed objects.

FM 131, Grayson County: between FM 120 and US 82. Watch for daytime lanes closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.

FM 1753, Grayson and Fannin County: from FM 1897 to SH 78. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.

The annual contract to perform crack sealing operations in Fannin County is in progress. Daytime lane closures will be present during the crack sealing operations and drivers should expect delays. The following roadways in Fannin County will be crack sealed this year: FM 1396 from SH 78 to FM 2029; FM 1752 from US 82 to FM 1753; US 82 from SH 121 to the Grayson County line; SH 11 from SH 121 to SH 78; SH 78 from SH 11 to US 69; and FM 68 from SH 78 to SH 34.

FM 898, Fannin County: from the Grayson County line to SH 121. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.

FM 2815, Fannin County: from FM 1629 to SH 11. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.

FM 1743, Fannin County: from SH 56 to FM 1550. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.

FM 824, Fannin County: from SH 56 in Honey Grove to the Lamar County line. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.

FM 1550, Fannin County: from County Road 3330 to SH 34. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.

SH 121, Fannin County: from the Collin County line to SH 56. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install safety treatments on fixed objects.

US 82, Fannin County: from SH 121 to the Lamar County Line. Watch for slow moving construction equipment as crews work on widening US 82 from a two-lane roadway to a four-lane divided section. Westbound US 82 traffic has been shifted to the new pavement on the eastern end of the project between the Fannin and Lamar County line and County Road 2975. Eastbound traffic will remain in its current lane, while crews work on the inside lane to work on building the crossovers and turn lanes. Drivers who frequent this roadway are advised that all driveways, county roads and farm-to-market roads approaching the new westbound main lanes on US 82 will have a full stop before crossing over to the median. The SH 121 and US 82 frontage road intersections have been converted to signalized intersections. The on-ramp to westbound US 82 from SH 78 has been closed while crews work on building the new westbound main lanes. The westbound exit ramp for SH 121 is closed as crews work on building the new main lanes in this area. Exiting traffic for SH 121 is asked to use the SH 78 exit and continue along the frontage road to SH 121.

County Road 3530, Fannin County: at Wafer Creek. County Road 3530 is closed for crews to remove the existing bridge and build a new culvert. Traffic on CR 3530 will need to use an alternate route during construction.

More:
TxDOT road work continues through Thanksgiving week - Sherman Denison Herald Democrat

The backyard before lacked cohesion and visual interest.

When Chase and Kate Jarvis bought their Seattle home, they knew it would be a project. The spec house sat on an awkward triangle-shaped lot, the front door was elevated nine feet above the sidewalk thanks to a sloping street, and the poorly used patchy lawn was bordered by what Chase calls a drive-by fence. Meaning, it looked like they installed it while driving by the site, he says.

When it came to revamping their outdoor space, rather than seeing the funky topography and layout as a challenge, the couple saw it as an opportunity to create zones for different activities: a patio for entertaining and cooking, a fire pit for lounging, a spa area with a hot tub and plunge pool to meditate and relax. They wanted to maximize the space and create an oasis they could use year-round.

Seattle carries with it a whole bunch of baggage about what people think about the weather, says Chase, an artist and entrepreneur, but we actually have a pretty amazing climate.

The fence, with its contrasting cedar and concrete, also sets the tone for the programmatic zones inside, where the pull of hard versus soft, black versus white plays throughout the space. We both wanted to be represented in the space, says Kate, a producer and mindfulness teacher, who has a background in meditation. I wanted softer spaces that feel contemplative, with beautiful plantings. Chase, on the other hand, likes a clean, modern look.

They first enlisted general contractor Dovetail, a company they had worked with previously on commercial projects, and Dovetail connected the Jarvises with Robert Hutchison Architecture to bring their vision to life. The result, completed in 2017, feels like a resort, according to the couples friends, with thoughtfully designed spaces for entertaining and relaxation that feel distinct yet cohesive.

The first step was to remove everythingthe boulders used for site walls, the shoddy wood fence, all of the landscapeand reshape the site, allowing them to gain 800 square feet of usable space for a total area of 2,700 square feet. Dovetail poured 275 linear feet of five-foot concrete retaining walls around the property, integrating a new staggered entry stair that incorporates planters and creates a grander front entrance.

A zen garden, planted with ferns, grasses, and leafy, sculptural flowers, leads to the spa area, where the flooring transitions to a patio of black flagstone in organic shapes and ipe decking around the circular plunge pool and rectangular hot tub.

Continued here:
This Backyard Design Will Change the Way You Think About Outdoor Space - Architectural Digest

Express News Service

BENGALURU: Massive relief is in store for vehicle users heading from Banaswadi, Kalyan Nagar, Hennur and Kasturi Nagar towards Old Madras Road.

Work on the Road Over Bridge (ROB) that was hanging fire for the last seven years began last month and is likely to be completed early next year. This will ensure easy access to the upcoming Baiyappanahalli railway Coaching Terminal for residents.

The bridge, proposed in 2010, was intended to provide easy access between the Coaching Terminal and Swami Vivekananda Metro station. It ground to a halt three years later, with 70% of the work completed. A ramp was constructed on one side of the bridge but completion of the other ramp depended on the handing over of land by the Defence Ministry and this caused enormous delay.

The Defence Ministry handed over the required 10,207 square metres of land to us in August 2019 and some work had begun when construction ground to a halt for five months due to the labour shortage caused by the pandemic, said Chief Engineer, West, Constructions, South Western Railway, R K Singh.Work started in October and has been going on at a brisk pace since then.

We are targeting opening of the ROB by March 2021. Even if it gets a bit delayed, we are sure of opening it up by April next year, he added.The ramp being constructed towards the Swami Vivekananda Metro Station has nine spans, with each span running into 30 metres.

We are yet to build 270 metres of the ramp and 190 metres of the retaining wall for it. So a total length of 460 metres is to be constructed with the width running to 7.5 metres, said another official.

The wall of the Defence property presently falls within our construction area. Another wall needs to be constructed to safeguard Defence land before we can demolish the present wall, he added.

A subway three metres in length and height of 2.7 metres was also being built for the use of two-wheelers and pedestrians. The subway will give relief to many vehicle users. Work on it will begin within 10 days and we plan to open it for public by the first week of December, he said.

Original post:
Work on Bengaluru's Baiyappanahalli road bridge restarts after seven years - The New Indian Express