drawer pulls

We report clever crimes.. but the day I got burgled the culprit was

2011-09-08T18:01:00.001-07:00

HE'S seen some of the toughest criminals and most brutal thugs in the land... but when Crimeline's Con Muprhy was robbed himself, it was by the dopiest gang in Ireland.

"Maybe he was but if he was the real man he portrayed himself to be he could have apologised in person."Jack lost the plot with me in a rant littered with f words, b words and even the c word was thrown in."But there are a lot of people in football like that, ask anyone in the media who works regularly with the Irish squad and they will tell you that for every player like Kevin Kilbane and Shay Given who make their jobs easy, there are a fair few snotty ones who just don't want to know. They are average players with very inflated opinions of themselves."Con said: "A good few years ago Marthat tina Navratilova played a match in the RDS, I was at the Press conference afterwards and she answered every single question openly and honestly, there was no hiding behind platitudes and giving one word answers."Eventually I ended up having an ear drum transplant to try and improve the situation."It wasn't a nice experience and in the days Big break... Con helped afterwards we did kind of feel violated that someone had been through our most personal belongings"."The guys we feature on Crimeline go to work slightly more prepared."To this day she remains the person i would most like to sit down and interview properly.".Con said: "The death of Latvian woman Baiba Saulite, who was shot in North County Dublin, is one that annoys me, mainly due to the fact that it was so cold-blooded and her kids, indeed her very young kids, were in bed."Sometimes the TV earphone is put on to the bad ear and I cannot hear the producers. It gets more complicated when they put it on the good ear, I can clearly hear the producer, but then cannot hear the people I am talking to all that well. Sure we manage somehow".He said: "I have only 20 per cent hearing in that ear, and it can cause me problems. It came about through my having a series of infections and diffi-culties with it when I was a kid."The main suspect is outside the jurisdiction at the moment, but I know the guards won't let this one rest and I really really hope they nail whoever pulled the trigger."He said: "Overall current affairs wouldn't appeal to me - maybe that's the area they might find me out in," but added: "I'm happy where I am and things are going grand."Despite his success on Crimeline, viewers need not expect to see Con reading the news any time soon."Now that I could just about deal with, but next day one of his people in the FAI came over and apologised on his behalf, saying that Jack was really sorry for what he had said.Con's home was burgled when he was just a teen living in Dublin. The radio and TV star said: "I was about 16 and I was the first person back to my house in Churchtown one evening.That wasn't a problem with downto-earth tennis legend Martine Navratilova."There's also the fact that whoever shot her seemingly did it purely for the money."The burglars had already left and, I swear to God this is true, they were later caught cycling down the Stillorgan dual carriageway with our video in a basket on the front of the bike."To be honest I hadn't a lot of time for him after that, and, of course, who put us out of the World Cup, Holland did, so maybe there was a point to my question after all."Funnily enough I worked in three different travel agencies and all three have closed down, maybe I got out in time before I single- handedly wrecked the entire industry."Before conquering the airwaves Con had worked as a travel agent: "I got into it because I had a belief I might get to see the world. Little did I realise that the bosses get all the good trips and the workers like me get the bus trip to Pontins and Butlins.Con said: "The biggest rollicking I have ever received in my life was from Jack. Back in 1994 we played Holland over there in a pre- World Cup friendly and we won 1-0. "Interviewing Jack on the pitch afterwards I made reference to the fact the Dutch had taken half their team off at half time and suggested that there was surely better to come from them at the World Cup itself.In his time as a sports presenter Con met all the greats, but Irish soccer boss Jack Charlton was a great disappointment.Con has had to battle twice as hard as his co-presenters as a childhood illness left him deaf in one ear."He was yelling: 'We have just come here and beaten the bl**dy Dutch and all you want to talk about is them, why won't you admit how well we played?' "He then removed his headphones, screamed at me that if we used the tirade on air he would 'Never speak to effin RTE again' and stormed off.Con, 44, who started his broadcasting career off as a sports presenter with RTE, got his big break with a stint covering for Marian Finucane and Ryan Tubridy - but he says he was still surprised to get the Crimeline call."The buzz for me is when information we receive on the show leads to an arrest, it's a good feeling to know that you played a part, however small, in catching a villain". But one unsolved crime still haunts him, the callous slaying of young mum Baiba Saulite.He said: "They rang me up and asked me to do it, I work mainly in sports so it was a bit of a shock, but they asked me so I thought I'd give it a go.

He said: "Overall current affairs wouldn't appeal to me - maybe that's the area they might find me out in," but added: "I'm happy where I am and things are going grand."

Creating A Classic Bedroom Look With Wood Furniture

2011-09-08T06:01:00.001-07:00

A bedroom should be a place where you can escape from the busy day to relax and rest. Therefore, the environment needs to be calm, cozy and warm. The best way to achieve this goal is with the use of classic wood furniture, especially pine and oak. When these types of woods are added to any space, they instantly create a welcoming atmosphere. Wood pieces are also known to endure for a very long time. Even if the wood does suffer some bumps or nicks, it adds to the character and enhances the look of the piece. Anyone looking to produce a bedroom with a classic decor needs to use pine or oak furniture pieces.

The lines of the furniture can be arched, curved or straight. Each feature will produce a different effect. In addition, the thickness of the wood will also contribute to the look. Very thick, chunky oak will be a dominating force in the room. It tends to look more rustic than thinner, less bulky, pine furniture. Pine also has elements intrinsic to the wood like dark, circular knots that will vary with each furniture piece. Oak may have visible grain patterns throughout that add character to any item. Pine and oak can be given a dark or light stain to alter the color of the wood. The type of hardware used will also contribute to the style of the furniture. Stainless steel drawer pulls in a simple round shape tend to look more modern when with paired with pieces that have clean, simple lines and flat surfaces. Chunky pieces with large wrought iron or metal drawer pulls give off a more rustic vibe. Another thing to think about is the about of detailing on each piece such as an inlaid design, molding or abstract designs carved into the wood.Solid wood wardrobes have increased in popularity over the years. They are the perfect way to add additional storage space to any bedroom. There are many different types and plenty of interior configurations. Some may have just a hanging bar inside, while others may also have a shelf above the rack. Other wardrobe have either interior or exterior drawers, in addition to the hanging bar. These days, wardrobes can be used for more than just storing clothing. They can even house television sets or computers. Finally, remember that factors like the wall color, lighting, flooring, draperies and bed linens will all contribute to the atmosphere of any bedroom.

Solid wood wardrobes have increased in popularity over the years. They are the perfect way to add additional storage space to any bedroom. There are many different types and plenty of interior configurations. Some may have just a hanging bar inside, while others may also have a shelf above the rack. Other wardrobe have either interior or exterior drawers, in addition to the hanging bar. These days, wardrobes can be used for more than just storing clothing. They can even house television sets or computers. Finally, remember that factors like the wall color, lighting, flooring, draperies and bed linens will all contribute to the atmosphere of any bedroom.

Does Your Business Really Have a Strategy?

2011-09-07T18:01:00.001-07:00

Bad strategy -- not a bad economy -- is what is dooming many American businesses to failure.

About Rich HorwathAdd to Digg Bookmark with del.icio.us Add to NewsvineA survey in the Harvard Business Journal reports that nearly 50 percent of the business failures in the U.S. resulted from flawed strategies -- not the poor economy.Discovery -- In this phase, you are pulling together everything you know about strategy, market intelligence, competitive intelligence, customer data and industry data so you have a solid bank of information on which to base your primary business assumptions. Strategic Thinking -- Getting together with your development team, you take the information from discovery phase and then use tools and models to generate new insights and discover what is going on in your business and how your business is moving forward in the future. Strategic Planning -- This takes the insights from strategic thinking and channels them into an action plan to achieve your company's goals and objectives. Strategy Rollout -- Research suggests that 95 percent of company employees don't understand company strategy, so it is imperative for companies to present the plan to the employees, who are ultimately responsible for enacting the plan. Strategy Tune-Up -- Like that diagnostic tune-up of your car, this step forces companies to look under the hood of their strategic plans to evaluate what is different, what has changed and what is new since they created the plan. This allows companies to then make adjustments in their tactics to fit the new conditions. It helps answer the ongoing question "Are we on the right path?"Horwath believes that a simple five-step process could unlock the potential of the strategic plan.Rachel Friedman Rachel@newsandexperts.comPart of this phenomenon is that companies create strategies, write the plans, and then let them languish in a desk drawer, according to Rich Horwath, author of "Deep Dive: The Proven Method for Building Strategy," ( www.strategyskills.com ).Rich Horwath is a strategist, speaker and author of the bestselling book on strategic thinking, "Deep Dive: The Proven Method for Building Strategy."

Rachel Friedman Rachel@newsandexperts.com

Preschoolers' room should be full of fun

2011-09-07T06:01:00.001-07:00

By Jura Konciusand Liz Seymour

Question: We have a back deck off our main floor, along with a brick patio from the walk-out basement, which makes for a shaded sitting area. My question is how to decorate under the deck. We were thinking of stringing solar-powered lights and getting a bistro- style patio set.Answer: Start with something like one fun pillow in a shade you would never have chosen. Go to a place like West Elm or Pier 1 Imports or Marshalls or Target. With brown and green, you might add touches of sky blue, red or even lavender.Question: I'm trying to figure out what shade of blue I should use for my front door. The house is red brick with white window trim and a cedar and white front porch. I've decided to paint the porch floor navy blue.Answer: I really like Ikea for kids' furniture, especially beds and dressers. I went to Anthropologie and got really fun drawer pulls that I used instead of standard ones on the dresser. I also got beanbags from the Company Store for my kids' rooms, and they love them.Reader: Why not have the preschoolers make the artwork themselves? Buy some sturdy paper or pulled canvas and a few different paint colors that match the color scheme of the room. Then have the kids go at it! Frame the pictures and update them every few months.The Washington PostAnswer: Would you consider a black door to go with what you describe as a very classic house?Question: The color palette in my home is very safe. Lots of neutral browns and greens. I would love to add bright and unexpected colors but have no idea where or how to start. Any suggestions for a decorating newbie?Answer: Buy nice planters and get small trees or bushes to put in them. Boxwood, camellia, hibiscus or oleander make a nice tall statement. An outdoor rug is also fun. What about a fire pit?

Answer: Start with something like one fun pillow in a shade you would never have chosen. Go to a place like West Elm or Pier 1 Imports or Marshalls or Target. With brown and green, you might add touches of sky blue, red or even lavender.

It's certainly not nice toe see you two!

2011-09-06T18:01:00.001-07:00

Byline: Andy Hirst

Imagine a circle drawn around the hole in the sock, about 1/4 inch (6mm) larger than the hole on every side. With your needle and thread, stitch around this circle using a simple running stitch, your needle piercing the fabric down, then up, about every 1/8 inch (3mm). Complete the circle and add five more stitches. Clip off the remaining thread.Thread a darning needle with thread that's similar in colour and weight to the fabric of the sock. Don't knot the thread. Trim the ragged threads around the edges of the sock hole.I thought the right foot felt a little strange halfway there but reckoned the new sock must have just got bunched up.And when I got there to examine the damage it was double dismay as the other sock had done the same thing.See, couldn't be simpler. I think I'll just go and buy some new socks. But not from the same place that the last lot came from.I'd sort it out when I arrived, but then it clearly felt that something was sticking through what it shouldn't be sticking through - my toe through the sock.CAPTION(S):Where there is no fabric, your thread will simply lie flat across the hole. Continue stitching parallel vertical lines all the way across the hole.Finally clip off the remaining thread.Although there won't be a next time for these.Now darners are few and far between these days so I thought I'd peruse t'internet to see how to fix the problem. It must be easy. Surely.With their colour-coded toes and heels they'd be easier to spot in the wash, marry up and then pop back in the drawer for the next time.Rethread the darning needle with another length of thread (again, don't knot it). Starting at the top of the hole, just outside the circle you've stitched, make a series of vertical lines all the way across the hole. Where there is fabric, weave your needle through the fabric in a running stitch.They cost a fiver for seven pairs which may have seemed, on the face of it, something of a good buy.* HOLY SMOKE: My rubbish socks zz310811socks.jpg or zz310811socks2.jpgI'M claiming a new world record for the shortest-lasting pair of socks.They were put on at 9.30am and 20 minutes later I set off to walk to a friend's house nearby in the village.When you've covered the hole with vertical lines make horizontal stitches, weaving your needle under and over the vertical lines you just made. Once the entire area has been filled up, make another six or seven running stitches (simple up-and-down stitches) in the sock outside the darning area. This will hold the stitches in place.On Tuesday morning I pulled on my pair of brand new 'essentials' socks from a high street store.

* HOLY SMOKE: My rubbish socks zz310811socks.jpg or zz310811socks2.jpg

Commentary: Making criminals out of volunteers

2011-09-06T06:01:00.001-07:00

Suppose a Maryland politician were to advocate passing a new law that would make it a criminal offense for attorneys to volunteer more than a couple of hours of their legal services on behalf of their favorite candidates in this year's election. Would that strike you as outrageous? Surprise! That is the proposition currently being advanced by the Maryland State Board of Elections.

Who else would qualify as a professional? No one knows because the only source authority is the 1992 private letter ruling, and it only discussed graphic designers. Certainly attorneys and CPAs are professionals. This is significant because, in many political campaigns, CPAs volunteer as campaign treasurers. Other people serve as volunteer fundraisers, volunteer strategic advisers, volunteer finance committee chairpersons and volunteer office managers. Are these people also considered "professionals"? The question is important, for a violation of the election laws by a "professional" could earn the unfortunate volunteer up to six months in jail. And, as more and more volunteers are characterized as "professionals," the greater is the likelihood that the "professional exception" announced in the 1992 private letter ruling will overwhelm and entirely swallow up the clear statement of the law in Section 13- 233.The Maryland State Board of Elections has recently sought the advice of Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler on this issue. In light of the fact that the 2010 campaign is already well under way, we urge Mr. Gansler to complete his analysis quickly. The 1992 private letter ruling was incorrect and unconstitutional when issued and remains so. The attorney general should promptly acknowledge this fact and thus relieve attorneys as well as all other "professionals" in Maryland from any anxiety that they might face imprisonment if they volunteer their time this year in support of their preferred candidates for public office.Editorial Advisory Board members Elizabeth Kameen and Donna Hill Staton did not participate in this opinion.First Amendment issueMaryland's campaign laws prevent anyone from contributing more than $4,000 to any single candidate or more than $10,000 to all candidates over the course of the four-year gubernatorial election cycle. Thus, the 1992 ruling would mean that any attorney who volunteers his or her services on behalf of a candidate for more than a couple of hours each year has, over a four-year period, violated the state's election laws and is subject to being sent to jail for up to six months.In this regard, one obvious question is, "Who is a professional?" The 1992 private letter ruling suggested that a graphic designer performing voluntary work designing a campaign's literature would be considered a "professional." Recently, the Maryland State Board of Elections relied on the 1992 private letter ruling in suggesting that a person serving as a voluntary "spokesman" for a candidate would also be considered a "professional."In ruling that the contribution limits challenged in that case were constitutional, the Supreme Court explicitly stated, "The Act's contribution ceilings thus limit one important means of associating with a candidate or committee, but leave the contributor free to become a member of any political association and to assist personally in the association's efforts on behalf of candidates."End the anxietyRecently, the Board of Elections pulled out of its file drawer an unpublished private letter ruling issued by an assistant attorney general in 1992, which stated that a "professional" who provides voluntary professional services to a political candidate will be deemed to have made an in-kind contribution to that candidate. In such a situation, the value of the in-kind contribution will be computed by multiplying the number of hours spent by the professional times the professional's hourly rate.Who's a professional?The more recent Supreme Court decision in Meyer v. Grant is even more directly on point. In that case, a Colorado law made it illegal to pay people to circulate petitions seeking to amend the state constitution. Stating that such a restriction requires "exacting scrutiny," and finding the rationale for the law proffered by Colorado to be without justification, the Supreme Court overturned the Colorado law as unconstitutional.In light of the fact that it has been held unconstitutional to prohibit paying people to work for a political campaign, isn't it clear that it is equally unconstitutional to prohibit professionals from volunteering their time on behalf of a political campaign? At least in the Meyer case, Colorado had relevant legislative history that it could point to as a means of trying to justify its law; in this case, there is no legislative history on point because the restriction on professionals was entirely the creation of an assistant attorney general in 1992, and the private letter ruling contains no clue as to the basis for the ruling.In its seminal Buckley v. Valeo decision, the U.S. Supreme Court held that the process of electing candidates to public office is integral to the operation of the system of government established by the Constitution and that "legislative restrictions on advocacy of the election or defeat of political candidates are wholly at odds with the guarantees of the First Amendment."Now the Maryland Board of Elections seems to be determined to not only place limits on campaign contributions but in addition to place narrow restrictions on the rights of professionals to assist personally in the campaigns of their favored candidates.Even more important than the utter lack of statutory support for the proposition advanced in the 1992 private letter ruling is the obvious First Amendment issue inherent in any attempt by the State of Maryland to restrict the right of its citizens to volunteer their time and talents to assist in the election of their favorite candidates.

Editorial Advisory Board members Elizabeth Kameen and Donna Hill Staton did not participate in this opinion.

Beverly Hills Cigar Club Offers Three Great Picks for a Laid Back Holiday

2011-09-05T18:01:00.001-07:00

With the Boys of Summer Gone, Suggestions for a Labor Day Smoke

Cigar Aficionados, the true keepers of the leaf, should lock the humidor this Labor Day weekend. Keep all that vintage tobacco "on ice" and celebrate the coming of fall humming one of Lee’s suggested favorites, a 601 Blue Label Maduro by tobacco genius Pepin Garcia and Miami's own Eric "Shorty" Espinosa. Of course it wouldn't do that cigar justice to smoke a Blue Label if you didn't drink one as well. So make sure to invite Johnny Walker along on your trip to Baja. Lee does suggest you press your cubes with AquaHydrate Mineral Water. No sense in watering Walker down with anything less.Lee encourages his fellow cigar enthusiasts, those who can easily name off their top five faves, to enjoy this year’s Labor Day with the Rocky Patel Decade. This fine Sumatra cigar was 10 years in the making. With a 95 rating from Cigar Insider, the Rocky Patel Decade is a great complement to one of Lee’s own picks, the 2008 Native Yeast Chardonnay of Iron Horse Vineyards, especially if sharing both with that special someone.For the beginning cigar enthusiast, Vin suggests you tie one on and tie one off for summer 2010 with the Alec Bradley Prensado. This full bodied, sophisticated cigar was rated a 93 by Cigar Insider. A superbly constructed Honduras cigar designed for a weekend celebration of the good life, it is box pressed, giving even the most amateur smoker that extra hint of style that will impress the ladies. Light one up and then cool down with a chilled mug of Ionizer Lager from Lightening Breweries of San Diego.BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. -- For this Labor Day, Vin Lee, Beverly Hills Cigar Club CEO, has pulled out his best pick of the sticks -- three top drawer smokes to go along with any level of celebration to cap off the summer. So whether you are stoking up the Santa Anas of Southern California, enjoying the cool breezes of the Boston shore or hanging with the hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, heed Lee’s advice, as these cigars are sure to make it that much cooler or that much hotter.

Note: Vin Lee, CEO of Grand Metropolitan and Beverly Hills Cigar Club, is available to provide more tips or comment.

KITCHEN/BATH SPOTLIGHT: bathroom storage

2011-09-05T06:01:00.001-07:00

The contemporary Malibu master bath from Wood-Mode is designed to be dually relaxing and functional. It features separate lavatory areas divided by back-to-back storage cabinets, and glass-fronted doors allow a peek at what's inside, while also providing added space for decorative storage elements.

FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #32FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #30Songe from Sonia is a staid, boxy contemporary vanity that is flexible and adaptable, with plenty of storage for bathroom essentials. It's available in a multitude of colors and in a one-color set-up for those who want a more dramatic look.FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #35Keystone Wood Specialties: CIRCLE #42New River Cabinetry is a newly formed company offering semi-custom cabinetry. The company offers 70 popular finish colors available in both stains and paints, and 20 fashionable new door styles and eight wood species.SieMatic: CIRCLE #47The bathroom linen pantry from Studio Marler hides the medicine cabinet and provides easy access. The cabinetry is eco-friendly and frameless, built with 100 percent recycled materials, water-based dyes, no added formaldehyde and an ultraviolet finish.In and Out Cabinetry: CIRCLE #41SalonCenter from Armstrong Cabinets is designed to provide convenient solutions for the bath. A self-contained pull-out system, it allows for organization of hair dryers, curling irons and other vanity items. Several other cabinet accessories complete the bath, making it work well and look good (shown here in Waverly door style in new Vanilla Cream finish).FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #38The New Blox modular component system by Xylem allows homeowners to design their own personal bathroom space. The mix-ormatch bath furniture system offers storage flexibility including some unique storage components. Its vanity drawer units have large European-crafted drawers that are open-sided and pull out with the entire face of the vanity. for more info circle #29Crown Point: CIRCLE #40Wellborn Cabinets: CIRCLE #48FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #37The new Logix EasyTrax Cabinet from Diamond Cabinets features a sliding shelving system with five trays that can be rotated along a heavy-duty ladder system. The sliding trays can be quickly changed into one-, two-, three-, four- or five-shelf combinations at varying heights.FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #28FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #34Quality Cabinets: CIRCLE #44FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #36Rutt Custom Cabinetry: CIRCLE #45Poggenpohl: CIRCLE #43ADDITIONAL RESOURCESAllmilmo USA: CIRCLE #39The Merillat base vanity hamper is designed to conveniently store laundry outof-sight. Its tilt-out design makes it easy to store dirty laundry, and the removable basket can be taken directly to the laundry room.Kohler Co. expands its Persuade furniture collection combining design and performance. Options include a contemporary console table, timeless petite vanity, or a full-height vanity with storage space. The petite vanity has two pull-out drawers, and a frosted glass bottom shelf, while the full-length vanity is ideal for discrete storage of bathroom products.The custom-designed hamper complete with side vents is part of a Venetian-inspired master bath and dressing area from Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry. The smooth black painted finish and Vogue door style also is incorporated on the adjacent vanity.Canyon Creek Cabinet recently introduced Newcastle, a cabinetry line designed to provide a high-quality, entrylevel product for today's price-competitive marketplace. It features four wood door styles in maple in six different stain colors, and one thermofoil door in white.FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #33FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #31

Wellborn Cabinets: CIRCLE #48

Kitchen Cabinet Hardware � A Great Way To Spruce Up The Look Of Any Kitchen

2011-09-04T18:01:00.001-07:00

The kitchen, it is the one room in the home that you and your family end up spending the most time in. Then, why is it that people tend to neglect it when it comes to decorating and making it look beautiful? If you are spending the most amount of time in there, then it should be equally gorgeous, if not more, than the rest of your home. One way to get your kitchen space on the right track is by purchasing some new kitchen cabinet hardware to give it a stellar, completed look.

Now, you might be thinking, how is new kitchen cabinet hardware going to make my kitchen that beautiful? Well, because it has a pleasing look which comes from the many different materials it can be made from. Those materials include aluminum, brass, stone, wood, ceramic, steel, zinc, pewter, plastic, wood, granite, even porcelain and glass. Each has a gorgeous appearance, plus, they are available in a number of different finishes like brushed, antiqued, satin, polished, dull, and rubbed. With the material and finished options, you can find the perfect ones to complement the kitchen cabinetry that you have, achieving any kind of look that you want in your kitchen. For example, maybe you want a trendy, contemporary look and feel in your kitchen. Then, a great choice for you would be ones crafted out of metal that have a brushed finish. Or, if you want more of an antique feel, then a great option are ones that are also made from metal, but instead have that antique finish to them. Really, you can create any kind of look that you want in your space because of all the many selections that are available. All of these materials are also very durable, which is ideal for you because they will last for years and you will not have to worry about having to replace them because they break or get damaged.So, if you and your family end up spending the most amount of time in your kitchen, then it should probably be one of the rooms in your home that is the most beautiful. One easy and simple way of making your kitchen space into an elegant dream is by purchasing some fabulous kitchen cabinet hardware for it. Extremely beautiful, these wonderful accent pieces will give your kitchen a completed look that is sure to please.

So, if you and your family end up spending the most amount of time in your kitchen, then it should probably be one of the rooms in your home that is the most beautiful. One easy and simple way of making your kitchen space into an elegant dream is by purchasing some fabulous kitchen cabinet hardware for it. Extremely beautiful, these wonderful accent pieces will give your kitchen a completed look that is sure to please.

Readers' Poems […]

2011-09-04T06:01:00.001-07:00

> THE HANDY MAN My name is Tom and what I do Is a general handy man I can fix those things that go wrong each day And I do the best I can If your toilet''s blocked and all gunged up I'll free it right away With a plunge plunge here and a flush flush there It will be fixed without delay When your lights go out and you're in the dark And you don't know what to do Ill be there in a 'flash' with my box of bulbs "I think a 60 watt for you" If your telly picture''s fuzzy I'll pop round and take a look Cos it's not much fun having nowt to watch When you feel a little crook If your kitchen sink gets clogged and blocked With rubbish from the dishes I'll unclog, clean and rinse it out To comply with your wishes When your wardrobe drawers just fall apart As you pull the damn things out I'll come straight around to fix them All you have to do is shout I'll take them to my workshop Cos I know just what to do Some glue, some pins and you will see They'll be as good as new So if you've got a job for me to fix Be it toilet, sink or pan I will always give it my best shot Cos I'm a general handy man By TOM HUTCHINSON, Forest Hall.

Commentary: Mom had a tough job

2011-09-03T18:01:00.001-07:00

My mother was a genius, and so was yours.

He's back in my office, the dog having won that argument. I should hit save and send this before he pushes that butThere is a terrible noise coming from the living room. It is not, as I had feared, an invasion of Huns here to lay waste to our otherwise perfectly manicured subdivision. It is merely the dog and the boy yelling at one another over who has rights to said dog's tail. Since the dog outweighs the boy by a ratio of four to one, my money's on the dog.Working at home raises a plethora of questions best left to the Human Resources Office. Should the parent be charged with a sick day if he works from home? What if she doesn't work a full eight hours? Is it simpler to have the employee off and tell him not to work, or is some work better than a full day lost?Assuming tomorrow's appointment goes about like the last one, my productivity for Tuesday and half of Wednesday will be greatly reduced. Despite that, I have been able to read and respond to e- mail, check my calendar, and adjust the greeting on my voice mail so that if you tried to call me at work today you would know that I'm not there.It was coffee grounds. Non-poisonous, which has become my only criterion for concern. If it doesn't involve the CDC, I don't panic.He has re-closed the office door and is chewing on the wire connected to the speaker on the bookcase. I'm guessing that's unhealthy.There is an upside: I am writing in pajama pants, T-shirt and slippers. Downside: I have eaten two bowls of Cap'n Crunch, six handfuls of Cheez-Its and a bag of popcorn. The baby has eaten toast, organic risotto and a handful of dog food.No one, as I recall, was so desperately busy all of the time until we got the tools to make things easier.We are here because said baby spent most of the night impersonating Vesuvius. There were a lot of sheets and jammies to wash, but not much sleep to be had. It seemed that might warrant a trip to the pediatrician, who does not have an appointment available until tomorrow afternoon. The last time we had an afternoon appointment at the pediatrician we showed up 10 minutes early and sat in the waiting room until our appointment time had come and gone and an additional hour had passed. After our five-minute visit with the doctor, we waited another 40 minutes in the exam room for the nurse to come administer the vaccinations. The explanation: She got busy on the phone and forgot we were in there.I have also managed a conference call today and, with a little luck, the completion of this column, which I shall e-mail to the office. None of those things were possible when our parents were raising us. If there was a sick child, someone stayed home and did nothing but care for the patient, and that was usually Mom's job. She still managed to take care of work, without the benefit of a smart phone, e-mail, or conference calling, but it waited. There were no three-hour doctor's visits then, and even if Mom couldn't do business for a day, it didn't seem to significantly impair the speed of commerce.He has learned to open the large drawer that holds the kitchen trash containers. I don't know what he has just removed from the trash bag, but it's headed for his mouth. I'll be right back.He has wandered into my home office and pulled the door closed behind him, which surprises him, so the current ambient noise is frantic baby-banging on a glass door.

He's back in my office, the dog having won that argument. I should hit save and send this before he pushes that but

Republicans target Wisconsin's prevailing wage changes

2011-09-03T06:01:00.001-07:00

State Rep. Mary Williams keeps in her Capitol office a tangible reminder of a law she says is holding down Wisconsin's construction industry.

"If the intent is to increase the cost of construction, then a repeal of Wisconsin's prevailing wage law will also accomplish that," Kahl said.Williams said she doesn't have a timeline for introducing her new bill. But she's keeping her gift from a frustrated contractor close to her as she considers how to draft the legislation.Williams last year introduced a bill that would have repealed those changes. It failed to gain support in the Democrat-controlled Legislature.Kahl pointed to data released by the Federal Highway Administration, which shows Wisconsin, while paying roadworkers an average of $23.60 an hour, spends less money per mile of construction than such states as Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Alabama, all of which pay workers in the $10- to $11-an-hour range.But Williams now is preparing to introduce new legislation that could seek changes beyond those in her previous bill. She could, for instance, propose a complete repeal of the prevailing wage law or at least seek a higher threshold than the original $234,000.A year ago this month, Wisconsin's prevailing wage law changed, requiring contractors prove they are paying competitive wages to employees working on state and local government projects valued at $25,000 or more. The previous threshold for proof was $234,000, and the law required less paperwork.Williams' legislation, Kahl said, would "create a lot of $10-an- hour jobs with no benefits to replace a lot of family supporting jobs, and eliminate construction workers as a skilled profession.""This is a document a contractor had to work with to do a job because of prevailing wage," Williams said. "It's just huge. There's all this paperwork in the front to fill out. It's a mess."Opening the top-right drawer of her desk Wednesday afternoon, the Republican from Medford pulled out a thick stack of paper and let it drop like a brick, smacking the surface with a thud."I think we have to roll back the changes, at least to start," Litjens said. "When (towns are) laying a new layer of asphalt on a road and it's costing $50,000, it's not an efficient use of tax dollars."Litjens rejected Kahl's argument that repealing changes to the law would undermine construction work as a profession."I have a funny idea," she said, "it's going to have to come sooner than later."Robb Kahl, executive director of the Construction Business Group, a joint labor-management organization, disagreed, saying the prevailing wage law actually makes projects cheaper for Wisconsin municipalities."So, this was a big sea change for towns, particularly rural areas, where we did not get federal stimulus money for road projects."But Lee Turonie, a lobbyist for the Wisconsin Towns Association, said he is hearing just the opposite from his members. The association wants lawmakers to repeal the 2010 changes to the prevailing wage law. The $25,000 threshold has blocked new road projects in rural areas, Turonie said, though he did not provide specific examples.Higher wages, Kahl said, attract workers who care more about their jobs and build better roads. Watering down prevailing wage guidelines might add more jobs, but they would be the construction equivalent of fast-food jobs.Construction groups perhaps have been the most outspoken critics of the prevailing wage law, but Williams said her desire to change it stems from municipalities in her district.Towns in her district, she said, "are putting off projects, and counties are using their own employees and not subbing it out to third parties because it costs so much more."Fales noted the bad economy is mostly to blame for the lack of money municipalities have to pay for construction projects. The prevailing wage law has just made those projects even more expensive, he said."I don't think this is anything against any group of workers," she said. "This is putting people to work.""So, it's between (last year's bill) and the full repeal," Williams said. "We'll probably come out somewhere in between."Williams is gaining support from other Republican lawmakers, particularly those in rural areas. Rep. Michelle Litjens, R- Oshkosh, said prevailing wage was a hot issue during her fall campaign.That includes her hometown of Medford, which struggles with the costs of basic projects now included in the $25,000 threshold."For a town, $234,000 is more than a lot of towns spend on roads in a year," he said. "The road projects were very much protected from this (under the old threshold).

"I have a funny idea," she said, "it's going to have to come sooner than later."

"We found it by the curb!" When we saw this discarded vanity, we thought, Can one person's trash really be another's treasure? The answer is absolutelymeet our smashing new desk

2011-09-02T18:01:00.001-07:00

SHOPPING LIST: OUR SECRET WEAPONS

MORE SURPRISING SALVAGE RENOVATIONS: sunset.com/salvage* Start with a vibrant color splash (we used Charlotte's Locks paint by Farrow & Ball; 1pt ., $30; farrow-ball.com).* DecoColor Liquid Gold Opaque Paint Marker defines small details ($2.50; amazon.com* A Preval spray gun makes painting furniture easy ($10; preval.com).* Extra credit: Tuck a collection of photos under a glass top (when ordering glass, ask for clear spacers).* If there are drawers, do they slide smoothly in their tracks? If not, walk on by.BY MIRANDA JONES | PROJECT BY AARON JONES* Stick to pieces made from solid wood; you'll run into trouble trying to sand a veneer.HOW TO TELL IF YOU'VE GOT A KEEPER* A Mona Lisa Gold Leaf Kit (from Flax; $11; 415/552-2355) adds gilded drama to the dull drawer pulls.

BY MIRANDA JONES | PROJECT BY AARON JONES

The wonder goal wasn't THAT good!

2011-09-02T06:01:00.001-07:00

Byline: Pete Barrow

Some say it was 26 passes, some say it was 25 and some say 24, but all that matters is that the way the ball was worked through for Esteban Cambiasso to score was simply stunning.The problem with claiming a goal to be the 'best ever' is that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and every football fan will have a different take on what constitutes a superb goal.CAPTION(S):FOR fear of sounding like disgruntled of Tunbridge Wells, why oh why oh why do football commentators have to keep telling us that what happened last week was the 'greatest thing ever'? Apparently no one has ever scored a goal as good as Wayne Rooney's overhead kick that settled the Manchester derby, and this just seven days after Newcastle United's Ivorian international Cheik Tiot had been lauded as scoring the greatest ever goal as he bagged the Magpies' fourth as they recovered from four goals down to draw at home against Arsenal.So I will concede that Rooney's strike was pretty special, but can certain sections of the media get a grip? Come on chaps you know it makes sense - and it could save you a fortune in those laundry bills you must be running up to get your smalls done!Again this is purely my opinion, but really has there ever been a much better goal than the one Argentina scored against Serbia and Montenegro in the 2006 World Cup finals.In no way am I trying to rubbish the efforts of United's Shrek-like striker, it takes athleticism and technical ability out of the top drawer to pull off a stunt like that, but the way some of the pundits and portrayers on television, and particularly on radio, reacted you had to wonder if they needed to change their underwear soon after.Personally I would place two other categories ahead of the eye-catching finish - namely the solo run and the team goal.Then you have to consider the team goals.But then Marco Van Basten's volley from an acute angle as Holland beat Russia in the 1988 European Championship final is arguably one of the best instant strikes of all-time, if that is what floats your boat.The spectacular individual effort will certainly tick the box for many fans and in that category I would instantly put Trevor Sinclair's bicycle kick effort from outside the area for QPR against Barnsley in January 1997 ahead of Rooney's goal.And in this category you can start to throw in David Ginola's goal for Spurs at Oakwell (sorry I seem to be picking on Barnsley) or Ricky Villa's FA Cup final winner for Tottenham against Manchester City, or even John Barnes waltzing through the Brazilian defence to net at the Maracana.Surely George Best drifting past what appeared to be the entire Sheffield United defence before producing the perfect finish has to involve more skill than a one-off strike.

* LUCKY STRIKE: Wayne Rooney (centre) scores against City

FEEDBACK

2011-09-01T18:01:00.001-07:00

Following is a collection of your opinions on various subjects taken from email and the RD B blog.

I've been a builder most of my life; I'm 72 so that's a long experience, all in custom building. I've built two marinas, boats, liveaboard-floating-homes, land homes, and even computers. In my view~ production homes are not built "incorrectly" but they are built with expethence ... shortcuts are in cosmetics and detailing. Doors will be functional but not beauti�il; moms will not have crown moldings; floors will be carpeted or even tiled but not finer hardwood with embellishments; and windows will not have multiple lites or panes. These, then, are examples of the expethent manner of building a production home. It doesn't diminish anything but the lifestyle enhancement For most people, that's OK. Some, even most, people never develop their tastes beyond that and can accept production because it is in their means. When their tastes do develop, it sometimes manifests in improvements to their production home. You may be seeing that result in your new first home and find it a comfort and maybe even attractive. I hope you do.WHY DO PRODUCTION BUILDERS GET A PASS?Degnan Design Buildershttp://bit.Iy/hXg88oTim CapaldiDobbs Ferry, NY.As an architect, I took great offence to Jay Grant's recent article "Marketing a spec home without buying the lot" (January 2011, page 8). His advice is very good for the home builder, a decent deal for the landowner, and all built on the expense of the architect who is "paid for his plan only if the effort results in a sale." Architects are notoriously bad businesspeople, and giving away free work with no reward (other than being paid the usual fee) is among the top of the list. Architects who participate in any such arrangement should either pull out a house plan they already have in the drawer (and been previously paid for design) or agree to a higher than usual fee to compensate for the risk. Otherwise, your magazine is promoting for builders to capitalize on the same bad business practices architects face from maltors, banks and others who have created the current housing economy.Capaldi Building Co.Gene MaioranoI'm a custom home builder and design/build remodeler. But I'm also very connected to the rest of our market in the Madison Area Builders Association (Madison, Wis). The "big dog" builder in our market has seen its ups and downs (before the companies merged and became who they are now), but I can say that they are genuinely concerned about their quality control, and they have the National Housing Quality award to prove it. I even overlap with them on numerous subcontractors, and when it comes to those subs, they are among the best of the best. in fact, knowing what I kno~ I would sooner refrr someone to the biggest production builder in our market than to some of the midsize, "semi-custom" builders in our market. As a remodeler, I get to see the worst of the worst and sometimes some pretty good work, too.RD B BLOGLEARN OUTSIDE THE COMFORT ZONEDeForest, Wig.It's definitely a challcnge to push yourself outside that comfort zone from time-to-time but when you do and you embrace it, the feeling is amazing. I look at it as a way to not only be a better person but to also be that much better at what I do in the buikling industry. I pushed outside of my comfort zone this past summer and decided to start writing a blog (crafti 945. blogspot.coin). I had no idea what I was doing at first but found my way and made a commitment to keep pushing on.DavidM. Hammer, AIABirmingham, Mich.http://bit.ly/elWmoe

Birmingham, Mich.

Shop these streets: three cities, three streets, and three distinct styles for your home

2011-09-01T06:01:00.001-07:00

Retro cool in San Diego

For accessible modem design, walk down Kettner in Little Italy3 | Boomerang for Modern set in tight spaces, the couches, tables, and chairs by the likes of Charles and Ray Eames are displayed on a scale that makes it easy to imagine them at home. Closed Sun; 2475 Kettner Blvd.; boomerang formodern.com or 613/239-2040.Cowboy mod in Santa FeSTAY The El Rey is Santa Fe's hipster-vintage motel of choice, cozy casita-style rooms, heated pool, and all (for more details, see "50 Under $150," page 89).EAT El Diablo, a spacious family place with a huge square bar in the center and) funky red lamps, supplements a surprisingly wide taco selection with chocolate-drizzled churros. $; 101 Broadway; 303/954-0324.1 | Victoria Price The daughter of actor Vincent, Price blends contemporary furnishings with a traditional Southwest vernacular. Look for the work of locals Sherry Stein, who sews sturdy canvas workbags, and Yuki Murata, creator of minimalist tableware. Suite B102; victoriaprice.com or 505/982-8632.1 | Mixture A sunny loft space offering large-scale contemporary furniture--such as a curved sectional with a chaise that looks like a cushioned slide, or a Moooi lamp, its shade atop a lifesize black horse. Can't fit that into your carry-on? Choose from books, colorful tea towels, and tableware. Closed Mon; 2210 Kettner Blvd., mixturehome.comSanta Fe cowboy modEAT There's not a red-checkered tablecloth in sight at airy Bencotto, run by transplants from Milan and Modena. Choose from eight sauces (such as spicy pancetta) and homemade pastas. $$; 750 W. Fir St.; 619/450-4786.Eames rocker ($475) from Boomerang for Modern.2 | Form Function At Santa Fe's go-to lighting source, don't miss the Japanese-paper sconces from Jacqueline Mallegni--who makes her ethereal lights using rattan and willow from Abiquiu--or the tapers in saturated shades like pumpkin and seafoam. Suite A101; formplusfunction.com or 505/820-7872.Can't get there? Order thesewhile you are thereSoule Studios ceramic cafe bowls ($40 each) from Santa Fe Modern (santafemodern.com).For kitsch-free Southwest style, look to the Pacheco Park complexSTAY There's not much nearby, but downtown favorites like the Teatro (from $189$; hotelteatro.com) and the Oxford (from $220; theoxford hotel.com) are just a 15-minute drive away.Ceramic vase ($44) from Mixture (mixturehome.com).2 | Decade Alongside clothing aimed at the Etsy girl--colorful scarves, flowery dresses--you'll find the quirky likes of ceramic bird-adorned drawer pulls and canvas wall hangings. An old tomcat, Stella the Fella, struts around like he owns the place. 56 S. Broadway; decade-gifts.comEAT At the Chocolate Maven, around the corner, refuel on a grilled chicken sandwich, and save room for a chocolate buttercream cupcake. $$; 821 W. San Mateo Rd.; 505/ 984-1980.San Diego retro coolFor that vintage-meets-handmade look, head to South BroadwayDesign book ($50) from Mixture.5 | Santa Fe by Design New Mexico designers hold their own on this showroom's A-list of international kitchen-and-bath fittings names. We're fans of a local blacksmith's hand-forged iron door hardware and curvy vessel sinks by Stone Forest. Closed Sat-Sun; Suite D101; santafe bydesign.com--KATIE ARNOLDBamboo, wool, and silk yarns (from $6) from Fancy Tiger Crafts (303/733-3855).1 | Lee Alex DecorGeorge Nelson clock ($545) from Boomerang for Modern (boomerang formodern.com).4 | T-Trove Asian Decor The exterior may look like a warehouse, but the chi inside this showroom is fantastic. Check out the desk devoted to calligraphy, including how-to books and brushes. Closed Sun; 189 S. Broadway; t-trove.com or 303/722. -0949.--STEVE KNOPPERFirebird MonoRail pendant lamp (from $290) by Tech Lighting from Form Function (formplusfunction.com).Solar lanterns by Allsop Home & Garden ($23 each) from T-Trove Asian Decor (303/722-0949).Denver boho chicSTAY Porto Vista welcomes pets and holds yoga classes on the roof. But the boutique hotel also embraces a kind of '60s Bond-girl lifestyle, with black-and-white photo murals to illustrate. From $99; portovistasd.com1930s Double Saddle Navajo blanket ($4,200) from Victoria Price (505/982-8632).ANDREA GOMEZ ROMERO (5)2 | Architectural Salvage The gently musty aroma in this 5,000-squarefoot treasure trove will quicken the pulse of any This Old House fan. Piles of drawer pulls and house numbers beckon, though you can also take home entire doors or windows--or maybe just some soda-pop signs from the 1950s. 2401 Kettner Blvd.; architecturalsalvagesd.comBoho chic in DenverSearch beyond the Sputnikera lamps and refurbed vinyl sofas for tinted martini glasses and tribal wooden beads. As of April, the store was to move down the street (from #66) to a bigger space. 24 Broadway; leealexdecor.com4 | Subtext Gallery The gallery-plus-store's aesthetic runs from pop surrealist to lowbrow, but is always affordable. In a mix of photography, illustration, and graphic design, the sweet spot is limited-edition silk-screen prints ($40-$100). Open by appointment; 2479 Kettner Blvd.; subtextgallery.com or 619/546-8800.5 | Klassik The midcentury couches and club chairs at this vintage furniture and accessories shop look trim but feel solid. Many have been reupholstered in deep reds and earth tones, and are so comfy you'll wish you'd brought a book. 989 W. Kalmia St.; klassikdesign.com or 619/640-6995. -KATRINA BROWN HUNT3 | Santa Fe Modern3 | Fancy Tiger Crafts The DIY knitting, felting, and crocheting capital of Denver lures craftkids in thick-framed glasses with Japanese pink-robot-print fabrics, silk and bamboo yarn, and clumps of multicolor wool. 1 S. Broadway; fancytiger.com or 303/733-3855. The same crowd hits Meininger Art Supply (499 Broadway; 303/698-3838) to scour racks of colored pencils, markers, and papers.4 | Four What happens when four artists, designers, and antiques dealers join forces? An eclectic mix of old and new, from 100-year-old Persian rugs to sleek leather handbags from Colombia. Coolest find: a super-soft felt throw of churro wool made in the high desert north of town. Suite C202; 505/995-8411.Wide planks set off furniture pieces like an armchair made from Plexiglas and driftwood (surprisingly comfortable). Black-and-white horses gallop by on the walls, compliments of local photographer Tony Stromberg. Closed Sat-Sun; Suite A105; santafemodern.com or 505/ 992-0505.

Solar lanterns by Allsop Home & Garden ($23 each) from T-Trove Asian Decor (303/722-0949).

Kitchen Organizers That Make Mealtime a Cinch

2011-08-31T18:01:00.001-07:00

Preparing meals is often a hurried task, with time pressing in before and after. When it�s difficult to find spices or other food items, containers or utensils, meal prep times can become frustrating events. But there are plenty of kitchen organizers available to make mealtime a cinch instead of a trial.

Keep spices convenient to the food preparation area by storing them in the Spice Stack. The three tiers of this organizer hold up to twenty-seven full size spice bottles, or up to fifty-four half-size bottles. A drawer pulls out of each tier and flips down on hinges so you can see what you have. The drawers are color-coded so you can organize your spices even better, and the whole unit fits inside a standard sized kitchen cabinet.Organizers aren�t limited to cabinets or the pantry. The refrigerator can use a little help too, in order to help you quickly find what you need when it�s time to prepare dinner. The Fridge Roll Out Caddy keeps foods readily accessible. Each wheeled bin rolls smoothly on your refrigerator�s glass shelves, allowing you to pull a refrigerator�s depth worth of items out for a quick look. Made of rugged plastic, these caddies are also dishwasher safe.Another organizer that allows you to see and access food stuffs quickly at meal prep time is the Adjustable Door Rack. Hanging on the inside of the pantry door, this 67 inch high frame features seven wire baskets, each 5 1/2 inches deep. They can hold canned goods, cereal boxes or other food items�whatever you need to get to quickly. And that means that meal prep time will go faster.These days, it�s easy, inexpensive and fun to get the kitchen organized. And an organized kitchen means an organized cook. With the right accessories, you�ll never feel like a harried cook again�no matter how little time you have to prepare that next meal.When it�s time to prepare a meal, you need to get to your cooking and baking ware faster, too. The Free Standing Bakeware Holder sits inside any cabinet and allows you to organize bakeware, serving trays or platters. Made of rust resistant coated steel, this holder is durable as well as handy.Set up the Stackable Roll Down Water Bottle Rack inside your refrigerator to free up valuable space. You can store water bottles or soda bottles on the gravity-fed racks so that the next bottle is always within sight and reach. Stack a couple of these racks and you�ll find that you still have plenty of shelf space on top of the upper rack. Smaller items like tubs of butter or cream cheese will fit there perfectly, leaving other areas of your refrigerator clear for taller items.Kitchen pantries are great places to store a lot of canned goods and other food items. But it can often be a chore to dig through what�s in there in order to find what you need. So why not keep your most commonly needed items closer to hand? The Slim Slide Out Pantry fits between the refrigerator and the kitchen counter. Casters give it an effortless glide so you can pull it out and quickly see and grab the exact item that you need.If you have very limited space for your spice collection, consider the Spice Clip Set. This allows you to hang your spice bottles inside a cabinet door or on the wall near your meal prep area. The three tiers hold four bottles each, so you�ll have up to twelve bottles of spices within easy reach when you�re rushing to prepare a meal.Who hasn�t wished occasionally that she could whirl refrigerated items out of the way to see what�s behind them? Place the Fridge Lazy Susan in your refrigerator and you�ll find yourself accessing commonly used items faster than ever before. You�ll no longer have to dig for that bottle of ketchup or jar of pickles. And not having to dig around means you�ll be more efficient when it comes time to set out condiments for lunch. And this special organizer will stay in place because of the suction cups on its legs.You can fit more canned goods in a cabinet when you use the Three Tier Can Rack Shelf. These racks feature three angled shelves that allow cans to roll down�the next can is always in the front. The vinyl-coated wire racks hold up to sixty cans, so you�ll quickly see how much room you can save with these space-savers. You�ll also be thrilled at how quickly you can access what you need because you can see it and reach it easily.

These days, it�s easy, inexpensive and fun to get the kitchen organized. And an organized kitchen means an organized cook. With the right accessories, you�ll never feel like a harried cook again�no matter how little time you have to prepare that next meal.

Perfectly Matched Decorative Cabinet Knobs and Pulls Enhance Popular Moen Bath Suites

2011-08-31T06:01:00.001-07:00

Moen products are known for the attention to detail. And now, homeowners can add yet another striking design statement -- as well as functionality -- in the bath with perfectly matched decorative cabinet knobs and pulls.

Contact: Tammy Howard Marketing Communications Manager Creative Specialties International (800) 321-8809, Ext. 2346 tammy.howard@moen.com Kristi Stolarski or Alissa Kiktavy Falls Communications (216) 696-0229 kstolarski@fallscommunications.com or akiktavy@fallscommunications.comImage Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=1639512For more information about decorative cabinet knobs and pulls from Moen, visit moen.com or call 1-800-BUY-MOEN (1-800-289-6636).Each collection features a knob and a three-inch drawer pull Designed to match seven popular Moen ® suites in both style and finish: 90º -- Chrome and Brushed Nickel Bamboo ® -- Brushed Nickel Icon -- Chome and Brushed Nickel Iso -- Chrome and Brushed Nickel (coordinates with the Level collection) Kingsley -- Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze Rothbury -- Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze Waterhill ® -- Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze Limited Lifetime WarrantyCustomers have come to rely on Moen, the #1 faucet brand in North America, to deliver dependable products and service. Moen is part of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO) ( www.fortunebrands.com ), a leading consumer brands company.Add to Digg Bookmark with del.icio.us Add to Newsvine

Spruce Up Your Home Without Busting Your Budget

2011-08-30T18:01:00.001-07:00

Do-it-yourself tips for summer remodeling projects

One of the simplest ways to add pizzazz to the kitchen is to install new cabinet hardware, says home improvement expert Don Vandervort of www.hometips.com. "At your local hardware store you'll find a wide array of drawer pull designs - from painted ceramic or metal knobs, to whimsical designs shaped like knives and forks. Simply unscrew your existing cupboard hardware, replace with the new, and presto, you've completed a quick an inexpensive update for your home."Expand space with drawer organizers.Brighten it up."One problem with using a flat paint on interior walls is that it doesn't take kindly to scrubbing," he says. "If you scrub it with a damp cloth, you'll remove the dirt or smudge, but the exposed pigment particles can ruin the finish. To avoid this, choose a high performance paint (not flat), that can stand up to a good washing."A beautifully designed faucet can change the look of your sink area and the way you feel about your drinking water. Simple faucet design lines can make a clean and modern addition to the kitchen or bathroom sink, while some faucet models can even improve the taste of the water coming from the tap. "Not everyone likes the taste of their tap water," says Vandervort. "For those who choose the filtration route, an attractive, yet practical solution is the ClearTap Water Filtering Kitchen or Lavatory Faucet, made by American Standard. It removes contaminants, retains fluoride, and produces clean, good tasting water with the turn of a faucet handle."Pour on the charm: upgrade the faucet.Jazz up cabinets with snappy new drawer pulls.(ARA) - Ah, summer. Between neighborhood softball games and trips to the community pool, it's the biggest time of the year for moving and home remodeling.Make a tiny bathroom look larger.Kids climbing the walls? Try scrubbable paint.Gain a foothold on more attractive flooring.For an easy and inexpensive way to brighten up a kitchen, install under-the-counter lighting. A small purchase at the hardware store is all it takes to completely change the way the light hits the surfaces of a room. You can also save energy dollars by choosing the right lighting. "Switch from incandescent light bulbs to highly efficient compact fluorescents, and you'll use about one-quarter to one-third less energy to produce the same amount of light," Vandervort says. Another tip: move natural light further into rooms by bouncing it off the ceiling. A window located close to the ceiling works for this, as do louvers or operable blinds that can help direct light.Flooring makes a huge difference in the appearance of a kitchen or bath. "Oftentimes vinyl flooring is dated and worn," Vandervort says. "But the good news is that you can go ahead and lie new vinyl or laminated wood material right over the old flooring. Many of the items available today give the look of ceramic tile or natural wood at a lower cost."For more easy and inexpensive tips on sprucing up your home this summer, visit www.americanstandard-us.com or www.hometips.com.Even a bathroom the size of a phone booth can look larger with a little ingenuity, according to www.americanstandard-us.com. Try using lighter, cooler colors: they feel airy and trick the eye. Wallpaper with a smaller pattern also helps expand the space. Try some on the ceiling, or emphasize horizontal lines with a coordinating border. Or try installing bath tile that contains a subtle pattern and then repeat it onto the floor. If your bath is really petite, try using a trim pedestal lavatory or wall hung fixtures - both free up valuable floor space. Also, remember to go heavy on the lighting and choose reflective surfaces, such as a shiny marble vanity.Ketchup, food, scuff marks, mud all these things can just be wiped clean with some of the new high-performance paint finishes available today. "Interior paints have a scrubbability rating, established through standardized testing," Vandervort says. "Though this rating may not be posted on the can, a paint retailer should have information on the rating."Is a small-sized kitchen or bath cramping your style? Try adding drawer organizers to increase your storage space. These days, you can find a nice range of inexpensive racks and slide-in baskets at discount and hardware stores. Whether you store cleaning utensils, Grandma's vintage pie pans, or your favorite bath salts you can create new nooks and crannies for all of your stuff, and get the clutter off the counter.

For more easy and inexpensive tips on sprucing up your home this summer, visit www.americanstandard-us.com or www.hometips.com.

Discover the Ideal LG Fridge Freezer Style for You

2011-08-20T17:19:00.001-07:00

LG is a company that many people trust to manufacture superior electronics, and their line of fridge freezers is frequently no exception to this rule. Fortunately, there is something for everyone when it comes to these products, which you will likely note as you look for the best LG fridge freezer for you. Consider some of the types available before you purchase one.

If you prefer an updated kind, consider the French door fridge, which features the freezer on the bottom and two doors on top for the refrigerated section. This kind of LG fridge freezer often has tons of space, particularly for the refrigerated part, as well as a drawer on the bottom that pulls out easily. Of course, this kind comes with all the great features that most appliances come with, and then some, such as extra drawers and large shelves to keep food fresh and organized.Clearly, nearly anyone can attain a good LG fridge freezer for them, no matter their preferences when it comes to appearance or function. Just consider your price range, the number of doors you need, and the style you like most. Then it is time to start browsing for the perfect LG fridge freezer for your home.For those who seek ultra modern appliances, LG makes a fridge that possesses four doors instead of two or three. This is in the style of the typical French door fridge freezer, but features two drawers on the bottom instead of one. Both bottom drawers are dedicated to the freezer, allowing you to be extra organized. This also lets you keep the items you do not need frequently in the bottom drawer, and those that you use a lot in the top one.

Clearly, nearly anyone can attain a good LG fridge freezer for them, no matter their preferences when it comes to appearance or function. Just consider your price range, the number of doors you need, and the style you like most. Then it is time to start browsing for the perfect LG fridge freezer for your home.

Author: Heather Mills

Furniture hardware

2011-08-17T16:52:00.005-07:00

Doug Mockett & Co.

www.mockett.comCIRCLE 106Skinulis, Richard and Peter Christopher.

CIRCLE 106

Architectural inspiration; styles, details & sources

2011-08-17T16:52:00.003-07:00

Architectural inspiration; styles, details & sources.

Doug Mockett & Co. offers a new 304-page catalog containing its line of furniture hardware, components and accessories. The full-color publication is divided into product sections such as technology-into-furniture integration, wire and cable management, drawer pulls, knobs and door handles, supports, furniture togs and casters, specialty hardware and accessories, and kitchen, bath and closet. A part number index and price list are also included. The company says that the free catalog features many new ideas, concepts and products, as well as many old stand-bys.For anyone who is planning to build or remodel a home or those who just dream of it, this is the book to have at hand. Author Kinulis and photographer Christopher cover every aspect of home design outside of the basic architecture, including exterior cladding and roofs. Chapters are arranged by function: doors and windows, flooring, walls, ceilings, light and heat, followed by sections on kitchens and bathrooms and the elegant little touches of hinges, doorknobs and drawer pulls. The photographs are beautiful and clear. The book includes a list of architects and designers as well as sources for the materials. While not everyone can afford a Chihuly chandelier, we can all revel in these wonderful examples of home design, using them as a guide for projects and daydreams. Oversize: 10x11.5"528 pagesSo, if you and your family end up spending the most amount of time in your kitchen, then it should probably be one of the rooms in your home that is the most beautiful. One easy and simple way of making your kitchen space into an elegant dream is by purchasing some fabulous kitchen cabinet hardware for it. Extremely beautiful, these wonderful accent pieces will give your kitchen a completed look that is sure to please.NA2840Boston Mills PressWhen it comes to kitchen cabinet hardware, there are different types that you can purchase depending upon what you want to replace in your kitchen area. You might need new knobs and hinges for your cabinets, pulls for your drawers, and maybe even a slide or track for inside your drawers. Probably the best thing to do though is to get ones that match because having a miss-matched look in your kitchen is pretty tacky. To find exactly what you are looking for, a fast and easy way is to hit the Internet for some comparison shopping.Hardcover

([c]2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR)

Kitchen Cabinet Hardware � A Great Way To Spruce Up The Look Of Any Kitchen

2011-08-17T16:52:00.001-07:00

(800) 523-12692007

Author: Jesse Akre

PRODUCTS

2011-08-17T13:21:00.005-07:00

Widebelt sander

336.854.1211An NC through-feeding boring machine, the Bre. Ma. Vektor from Biesse America, is able to sequentially drill, mill and route panels of varying dimensions (X/Y/Z) without manual intervention. It can route and drill on all six sides of a panel and insert hardware on five, suiting it to processing a variety of components such as case goods, doors and windows. The Vektor line can be equipped with 10-position revolver units, independent spindle units and insertion units.www.biesseamerica.com704.357.3131www.stilesmachinery.comChemcraft div Akzo Nobel Coatings Inc.That includes not just intricate designs with deep undercuts or wonderfully complex geometric shapes, but also fairly large sculptures and other pieces of artwork.704.827.1345www.biesseamerica.comDelmac Machinery GroupGrizzly Industrial Inc.www. akzonobel. com800.334.8556Sliding table sawswww.outwater.com704.587.3400Laguna Toolswww.delmac.com www.fogco.comOutwater Plastics Industries Inc.Stocked in nearly 50 patterns and sizes - 24 by 72 inches, 36 by 48 inches and 48 by 72 inches Outwater's woven wire grilles also are available in custom sizes and finishes. Stock finishes are Antique Copper, Statuary Bronze, Antique Brass, Antique Silver, Antique Pewter, Satin Nickel and Bright Brass.Bamboo cabinet componentswww.grizzly.com www.accuride.com www.scmgroup-usa.comClimate control systemModel 3832 Touch Release and 3832 Heavy-Duty Touch Release drawer slides from Accuride hold drawers or rollout shelves in a closed position until activated by touch. Pushing on the drawer front propels it open about 2 inches, eliminating the need for drawer pulls and allowing for simple, clean drawer fronts.Martin Woodworking Machines Corp.Blum Inc. offers a waste/recycle bin set for its Servo-Drive drawer opening system. A light touch of the drawer front allows the drawer to open. The waste/recycle bin set comes with all the components needed for a new installation or retrofit. The product can be used with Tandem or Tandembox drawer runner systems.Woven wire grilles"We can create things you could never do with a mold casting or machine process," said general manager Bob Wood.704.357.3131336.854.1211770.813.8818360.647.0801949.474.1200The IDM Genesis KS sizing and squaring edgebander from Delmac is designed for companies with multishift operations. It is equipped for high-speed sizing and edging of panels with PVC in coils or strips. Working units are designed for rapid setup and quick changeover.Laguna Tools is offering a new widebelt sander with time-saving features such as digital readout of panel thickness, NC controlled thickness and an automatic wood gauge sensor. The tool can be configured as a thickness sander for dimensioning or a finish sander by changing the belts and grit setting.For some people, having the same cabinet knobs as a million other people just won't do. What if you want something unique -- say, a certain species of trout for the bathroom in your fishing cottage or a favorite flower, vegetable or utensil for your kitchen?www.holzher.comThe Weeke Vantage 34M from Stiles Shop Solutions is a CNC router featuring Beckhoff CNC control technology, Weeke's S/C Tech construction technology and high speed/high acceleration drive and motor package. The Vantage 34M is fitted with a 5 ? 10 work area, an HSK-63 main spindle, seven independent vertical drill spindles and an automatic tool length measuring system.Panel saw616.698.8456770.813.8818608.781.6355800.521.5458Stiles Machinery Inc.Touch-release slideswww.lagunatools.com562.903.0200www.martin-usa.comAkzoNobel Wood Coatings North America offers the Ora Verde line of urethanes in five finishes. The line includes Verde Chiaro - ultra clear poly- urethane, Verde Bianco - pig- mented, high-solid primers and topcoats and Verde Tinto - water-based stains.The Morbidelli Unix KTB panel saw from SCM Group-USA can be used as a stand-alone machine or an inline machining center. The Unix uses clamps to position the panel loads two panels at a time. The machine is designed for small batch sizes, closets and cabinet components.Delmac Machinery Group201.498.8750www.delmac.com704.525.3963The BiesseSand Regal 500 Series widebelt sanders from Biesse America are available with up to five independent working units, cross-belt unit with sectional platen, super-finishing unit with a chevron belt, knife planer/sander versions and mobile or fixed-table designs.www.stilesshop.com www.holzher.comBut unusual knobs, handles or drawer pulls are an even better way to infuse a room with personality and style.The Contriga edgebander from Holz-Her can glue and machine at feed speeds up to 30 meters per minute and in edge thicknesses up to 30mm. Its slit nozzle technology offers a maximum level of precision for glue application.Grizzly offers the G9980 51-inch, widebelt sander, which is pre-wired for a 220V three-phase power source and can be converted for 440V. The sanding motor is 30 hp, the conveyor motor is 2 hp and the table elevation motor is 14 hp. The machine also features digital readout table positioning and powered table elevation controls.Biesse AmericaWalzCraft Industries Inc.

www.fogco.com

PRODUCTS

2011-08-17T13:21:00.003-07:00

Touch-release slides

480.507.6478PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTEHolz-Her Inc.The Sigma Impact 107P panel saw from SCM Group-USA has a loading platform and was designed for woodworking shops looking for flexibility in material handling.Stiles Shop SolutionsA 21/2-inch stone crab knob in a standard finish costs $100, and a 3.98-inch starfish knob imbedded in a delicate lattice of coral will set you back $167 a piece. A 10-by-51/2-inch doorknocker in the shape of a turtle costs $778.Fogco SystemsWalzCraft offers Caramelized and Blond flat-grain Bamboo custom cabinet components that use non-urea formaldehyde glue to bond the multiple layers of Bamboo. Bamboo drawer boxes, moldings and veneers also are available.www.walzcraft.comWidebelt sanderMartin Woodworking offers the T74 with a compound machine frame for optimum vibration dampening. It features full, cast iron machine tables and a durable, wear-free sliding table system. All T74 models come with an overhead touch screen monitor, threeto five- axis control and CAN-bus technology.Model 3832 Touch Release and 3832 Heavy-Duty Touch Release drawer slides from Accuride hold drawers or rollout shelves in a closed position until activated by touch. Pushing on the drawer front propels it open about 2 inches, eliminating the need for drawer pulls and allowing for simple, clean drawer fronts.Stiles Machinery Inc. carries the Weeke Vantech series of routers, available in three sizes, with Windows-based WoodWop software as a standard feature. Other features include the Quik-Pod system, a dual-drive gantry and pneumatic positioning pins.Accuridewww.blum.comThrough-feed boring machineWaste/recycle bin setwww.scmgroup-usa.comThe IDM Genesis KS sizing and squaring edgebander from Delmac is designed for companies with multishift operations. It is equipped for high-speed sizing and edging of panels with PVC in coils or strips. Working units are designed for rapid setup and quick changeover.Urethane finishesEdgebanderEdgebander704.587.3400SCM Group USA Inc.Like a sheet of baklava, the design is laid down, one minuscule layer at a time, in stainless-steel powder that is held in place by a laser-activated binder. Each layer is just 1/4,000 of an inch.Holz-Herlnc.Panel saw562.903.0200CNC routerThe Bench Horse from Blum Tool is an 18-inch by 48-inch portable workbench. It features a torsion box-constructed top made from Baltic birch plywood with pipe clamps used as vises. The legs feature tubular steel with rotatable fittings for easy foldup.SCM Group USA Inc.The Contriga edgebander from HoIzHer can glue and machine at feed speeds up to 30 meters per minute and in edge thicknesses up to 30mm. Its slit nozzle technology offers a maximum level of precision for glue application.

www.scmgroup-usa.com

Knobs can infuse a room with style

2011-08-17T13:21:00.001-07:00

By Gretchen McKay

Portable workbenchwww.blumtool.com616.698.7500Undermounted lighting and fancy molding are great ways to dress up a boring cabinet door.Fogco carries its ceiling-hung Revolution climate control system, which broadcasts a focused air stream mixed with fog in a full-circle around the unit, according to the company. The system aims to help wood products keep their ideal equilibrium moisture content for better quality control and less waste in manufacturing, finish and storage.MetalTec Innovations, a division of Irwin, Pa.-based ProMetal/Ex One Co., has just the ticket. Using a printing process, artists there are able to take any computer-aided design plan and -- in a marriage of art and math -- turn it into a solid, three-dimensional product.Accuridewww.accuride.comBlum Tool Co.

A 21/2-inch stone crab knob in a standard finish costs $100, and a 3.98-inch starfish knob imbedded in a delicate lattice of coral will set you back $167 a piece. A 10-by-51/2-inch doorknocker in the shape of a turtle costs $778.

Author: Gretchen McKay

Drawer slide

2011-08-17T10:18:00.005-07:00

Accuride Intl

3 tablespoons minced cashewsThe same blanching water can be used two or three times. Keep it at the required level. Change the water if it becomes cloudy.Zucchini Tuna Salad: Coarsely shred 2 unpeeled medium-sized zucchini and 2 medium-size carrots. Mix with a 6-ounce can of tuna that has been drained. In a separate bowl, mix together 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon chopped sweet pickle, 1 teaspoon celery seed and 1 tablespoon pickle juice. Toss dressing with zucchini mixture.

CIRCLE 157

Doug Mockett Initiative Aimed at Cancer Cure

2011-08-17T10:18:00.003-07:00

Manhattan Beach, CA - Doug Mockett & Company, the Manhattan Beach, CA-based manufacturer of architectural hardware, is offering a limited edition Pink Sombrero grommet/wire manager as a fund raiser, with proceeds from sales of the product going toward cancer research.

"This is strictly an effort to aid in the fight against women's cancer," said the company, a leading supplier of drawer pulls, knobs, door handles, speciality hardware and kitchen/bath accessories.Accuride offers Action-Assist, a unique slide that the company says helps users open and close drawers with ease. The user starts the opening and closing action and the slide does the rest. When the drawer is opened, at about the mid-point of travel the assisting forces balance, resulting in a neutral zone where the drawer remains in a steady position. Once the drawer is further extended to about two-thirds of its travel, the slide finishes the opening process. Conversely, as the drawer is pushed inward past the neutral zone, the Action-Assist kicks in and pulls the drawer closed. It does not require electricity to operate and there are no wires or transformers, Accuride says. Other than minor drawer box changes, installation is very similar to a standard, side-mount 3832 full-extension slide, the company adds.

Additional information is available by contacting the company, at (800) 523-1269.

Zucchini can be sneaky

2011-08-17T10:18:00.001-07:00

"Any time is zucchini time," says the booklet of 460 zucchini recipes I keep in my desk drawer. I pulled it out after seeing a photo of a co-worker's 5-pound specimen.

To blanch in boiling water:The company, which announced the initiative last month, said that it is not charging anything to manufacture the item, and designer Andrea Ruggiero has waived his royalty.(562) 903-0200In another bowl, mix together yogurt, mayonnaise, salt, cashews, sesame seeds and orange peel. Add zucchini mixture, and toss lightly.Additional information is available by contacting the company, at (800) 523-1269.1/2 cup sliced water chestnutsOf course, you won't want to put all your zucchini in the freezer right away, so here's a recipe from the above-mentioned "Zucchini Time" recipe book that's cool and crunchy.The blanching time for zucchini is 3 minutes for 1/4-inch slices and 6 minutes for 1/2-inch slices.- Bring water to rolling boil. Immerse wire basket, blanching basket or mesh bag containing vegetable.accuride.com1/2 teaspoon salt2 tablespoons sesame seeds- Cover the kettle, and boil at top heat the required length of time (this varies by vegetable and size of pieces). Begin counting time as soon as the water returns to a boil.CIRCLE 1571/2 teaspoon grated orange peelYou'll need a large kettle -- at least 2 gallons -- a colander, basket or net bag for dipping the vegetables into the water, large pans for cooling and ice cubes for the cooling water.Zucchini should be picked when it's about 6 inches long, according to K-State Research and Extension, which gives us our tips today for freezing zucchini.1 cup yogurt1 large apple, dicedCombine zucchini, apple, celery and water chestnuts.- Use 1 gallon water for each pound of vegetable except for leafy greens, which need 2 gallons per pound.Zucchini Salad Dressing: Grind, grate or chop raw zucchini. Add mayonnaise to taste. Season with pressed garlic or herbs. Use as dressing on lettuce and tomato salad.3 cups zucchini, thinly slicedSource: Sunset magazineHoliday Day Salad1/2 cup mayonnaiseLike all vegetables, zucchini should be blanched before freezing, and here's how Extension says to do it:- Drain the vegetables thoroughly. Extra water will form too many ice crystals.Send recipe requests and recipes to be shared to Recipe Exchange, Topeka Capital-Journal, 616 S.E. Jefferson, Topeka, 66607, or e- mail lisa.sandmeyer@cjonline.com.He wasn't trying to win a contest or anything, he just forgot to check the vines for a few days.1/2 cup diced celery

Send recipe requests and recipes to be shared to Recipe Exchange, Topeka Capital-Journal, 616 S.E. Jefferson, Topeka, 66607, or e- mail lisa.sandmeyer@cjonline.com.

Ultimate beauty set

2011-08-17T07:18:00.005-07:00

FROM tomorrow, for one week only, the Boots No7 Ultimate Collection, a set of skin care and cosmetic products, will be available for pounds 40 - saving a third (usual price pounds 60).

A pull out drawer contains - 12 No7 Stay Perfect eyeshadows, two Sheer Temptation and four Moisture Drench lipsticks, two Natural Blush cheek colours, an Extreme Length mascara and a make-up brush set.

Box clever with advent calendar your children can use again and

2011-08-17T07:18:00.003-07:00

I LOVE the re-usable advent calendars you see in the shops with pull-out boxes, but most of them are of trees or trains. I'd like one with a Nativity scene for my grandchildren. Where can I find one?

ZENA SAYS: John Lewis (www.johnlewis.com, 0845 604 9049) has a wooden Nativity Advent Calendar for pounds 15 with 24 drawers that you can fill with your own treats. The Bethlehem Advent Stable from Lakeland (www.lakeland.co.uk, 01539 488100), now reduced to pounds 39.99, has 24 drawers all containing characters from the Nativity scene that your children will love to play with. Letterbox (www.letterbox.co.uk, 0844 557 5263) has a soft padded fabric Nativity Advent Calendar for pounds 34.99 with 24 velcro-backed characters such as the holy family, wise men, shepherds, animals, stars and trees.

Author: Zena Alli

A spoon for thought - The FlyLady on MormonTimes.com

2011-08-17T07:18:00.001-07:00

Last Friday we got up to our first snowfall of the season. Snow always puts me in a cooking mood. Since I might be needed to shovel later I decided that a nice bowl of oats would be a great start to my day. I grab our box of Quaker oatmeal and read the directions. It had been a while since I had made any. I measured out the last of that box, noticed that I had a fresh box in the pantry. That means I need to put oats on our grocery list. I hate to run out of things. It is so nice to have a backup. That really isn't what I wanted to talk to you about. It was when I reached into our utensil drawer and pulled out a spoon that got me to thinking about things.

Read the full column on MormonTimes.com.

Gunman sought in robbery at mall

2011-08-17T04:19:00.005-07:00

WEST VALLEY CITY -- Police are searching for a man who robbed a cell phone store near Valley Fair Mall Saturday night.

L'Or�al Paris HIP High Intensity Pigments Metallic Shadow Duo in Platinum ($8, drugstores)May bell Ine Line Stilletto Precision Liquid Liner ($8.49, drugstores)DuWop Venom Gloss in Tulip ($18, Sephora)

-- Lana Groves

All-out all-star

2011-08-17T04:19:00.003-07:00

CoverGirl ShineBlast Lipgloss in Gleam ($7.49,

It's time for an all-star makeup intervention. Rock a competition look that's pretty-not scary!-with these fun products that enhance your look, not cover your eyes brow-to-lash with a thick coat of glitter. Yuck! Lucky for you, there are more ways than ever to wear your team colors without looking like you've been playing in the arts and crafts drawer.The Body Shop Define & Sparkle Uner /Mascara In Black ($18, The Body Shop)-- Lana GrovesFOR TIPS ON HOW TO PULL OFFA COLORFUL COMPETITION LOOK, VISIT AMERICAN CHEERLEADER.COMRimmel London Eyeful Eye G listener in Stand Out ($6.90, drugstores)tacking the tile creates a very interesting modern vibe. Stay away from the common square tile in any size.The man -- described as a Hispanic male in his mid-20s about 5- feet-6 with some facial hair on his chin -- walked into the cell phone store, Diamond Wireless at 3567 S. Constitution Way (2700 West), and said he wanted to make a payment on his cell phone, West Valley City police said.Pixi Energy Blush in PlekMe-Up Pink ($21, Target)Draw the bath and enjoy the modern luxuries of your new space.1. Cabinetry - When it comes time to selecting the design of your cabinetry lean toward clean, crisp and streamlined furniture. - To create a lighter and sleek bathroom environment consider cantilevered cabinetry secured to the wall creating a minimal look to the vanity piece. Create some drama with strip lighting added to the bottom side of the cabinet - which will cast a warm glow to the floor below. - Provide additional built in wall-to-wall storage elsewhere in the bathroom to compensate for the reduced storage in the vanity area. - Deep dark rich woods evoke a sense of warmth to the clean lines of contemporary design.Yves Rocher Loose Pearls Intense Illuminating Effect Eye Shadow ($9, yvesrocher.com)4. Luxurious Shower - Create a steam shower with multiple rain heads, and body sprays. If your budget allows, add chromatherapy and aromatherapy to your master bath wish list as well. These fittings represent the epitome of modern luxury design. Don't forget a built in bench and access panel to hide the steam system. - Design a full seamless glass enclosure from floor to ceiling and finish the interior with complimentary mosaics or stone tile to set it apart from the rest of the space. This glass enclosure creates a more visually open space within the overall space.

Hard Candy Eye Candy Shadow and Liner in High Beam ($5, Wal-Mart)

5 Modern Bathroom Design Ideas

2011-08-17T04:19:00.001-07:00

Would you say your overall design style sleek and chic? Do you enjoy the true architecture of a space with its linear simplicity rather that an overly adorned and accessorized space? If you'd like to translate your modern vision into your Master Bath here are a few design ideas to help get you started.

CoverGirl Smoky ShadowBlast in Tempest Blue $7.49, jgstores)The man, who police said was wearing a black coat and a Los Angeles Lakers hat, fled across 2700 West. Police ask that anyone with information call 801-840-4026.Web ExtraNP Set Eye Paletten Amsterdam ($20, Taget)When the clerk opened the cash drawer, the man pulled out a gun and demanded all the cash in the till, said West Valley City Police Sgt. Trudy Cropper.5. Accessories - Remember to keep clutter and display to a minimum. - Accessorize with towels in a bright color for punch or stainless steel and woods. Keep everything to a minimum and clutter free. - Select chrome, nickel or silver toned drawer/door pulls, towel bars, towel hooks and paper holders for sparkle. - Frame vanity mirrors in woods or silver tones - in similar finishes to the other accessories adorning your modern bath.

Draw the bath and enjoy the modern luxuries of your new space.

Author: Lori Gilder

Double Sink Vanity Designs for Men and Women

2011-08-17T01:19:00.005-07:00

If you are married or live with your significant other and even remotely considering a bathroom redesign or overhaul, do your partner a favor and opt for a double sink vanity in your bathroom. You have no idea how big of a deal this is until you have one. While there are many choices in vanities and designs, if you have the space, this is by far the best thing you can do in a shared bathroom.

When he spotted a copy of the book he wrote with his brother in 2002, "Hidden Treasures: Searching for Masterpieces of American Furniture," in the West Hartford collector's bookshelf, he offered to sign it.He pulled out some small drawers to see what kind of wood had been used inside the piece. It was hard yellow pine, a wood that he said pretty much had been cut down in New England by about the 1730s. He figured the piece was from Philadelphia, possibly from 1770 to 1790.You may wish to include items like headbands and booties as well.The next item: a similar kerosene lamp.

Once you�ve put all the pieces together, you need to decide how they are going to be installed. Do you have the knowledge and confidence to do the installation yourself or do you need to pay someone to do it for you. I always recommend if you can afford someone else to do it, go that route. This way if something gets broken or damaged during the installation process it should be taken care of and repaired by them. If you break it yourself, it�s your own tough luck. Of course this adds a significant expense to the overall cost of your project and if you have some knowledge of basic plumbing, cabinetry, and the other steps involved, you should be just fine. The end goal of course is the beautiful double vanity that you will have when the project is complete.

Author: Osmundo Bernabe

Shadow boxes: Preserve mementos in treasured displays

2011-08-17T01:19:00.003-07:00

Scouting badges, pins and emblems represent hundreds of hours of dedication in pursing excellence in different areas. The awards, so hard won, are often put away in shoe boxes, dresser drawers or even lost.

Recently, Leigh Keno also has been looking for objects for his newest venture -- the inaugural auction of Keno Auctions, to be held at the Marriott in Stamford, Conn., on May 1 and 2."Collect the most important items. You'll have too much, then edit the collection down. Think about the size and depth and buy your shadow box accordingly," Zacher said. "Pictures or names are important. Grandchildren may not know who the person is later so you should document what this shadow box is about and be sure to include dates."He said that he hopes the auction will attract younger collectors, people in their early 40s or late 30s. "From young collectors, great collectors grow."Zacher suggests including documentation in the back of the shadow box identifying each item and its significance. She tells of an instance in which a customer brought in a very simple-looking spoon to be framed. "It didn't look at all special, but she (the customer) told about the grandfather handforging it." The spoon suddenly gained significance because of the story.Another early auction memory: The auctioneer just couldn't get the bidding going on an old kerosene lamp. He started at $20 -- no bidders, so he dropped the price to $10. Still nothing. Exasperated at the lack of interest, the auctioneer suddenly threw the lamp against a wall; it smashed into pieces.Keno, whose antiques business is based in Manhattan, launched his auction company a few months ago, and ever since, he said, he has been making visits through New England, Pennsylvania and the Eastern Seaboard, lining up pieces for his first event.After watching Zacher so ably and quickly assemble the shadow box, I decided that in some circumstances, because of the piece's intricacy and importance, it might be worth paying a professional for his or her expertise."As long as you have the depth, you can shadow-box it."It was the seventh time in about a half-hour that Leigh Keno had hit the floor in the antiques-filled house in West Hartford, Conn.By the time they were 9 or 10, they also were digging for things around the house -- for old bullets and other finds. Once they discovered a swirl marble. "We were convinced it was something from outer space," Keno recalled. They also collected bumblebees.Keno also said he is making a point to have some items in the auction that probably will to sell in the $100 to $200 range. Others could go up to $300,000 or $400,000, although, he added, "I'd rather not guess the top."Shadow boxes can preserve these memories for the Scout and his family. They provide a barrier to the elements as well as providing a beautiful piece of art to display and enjoy. With the 100th anniversary of Scouting this month, it might be a good time to pull out the Scouting mementos and create a display that will be treasured for years to come.The lean, wiry antiques expert and dealer -- well-known with his twin brother, Leslie Keno, for their appearances on 14 seasons of "Antiques Roadshow" on PBS -- visited West Hartford and Bloomfield recently. He said he typically visits eight to 10 homes a month; sometimes he is contacted by collectors who have something to sell, sometimes by family members who want to liquidate an estate. And occasionally, as at this home in West Hartford, it was simply a chance to meet someone with an exceptional collection.Keno, 52, grew up on a farm near Mohawk, N.Y., and he and Leslie starting going to auctions with their parents, who were antiques dealers, as early as he can remember -- "probably when we were in the womb."If you can't find a purchased shadow box that will accommodate your items, she suggests purchasing a frame at a second-hand store like Deseret Industries and building a box behind the frame to accommodate your items."If it falls off of the wall and the glass breaks, it may damage irreplaceable items."To have a shadow box professionally assembled, "the cost depends on the size and the intricacy of the piece," she said. "It can be as low as $50 to several hundred, but the cost to assemble it is actually minimal. The cost is usually in the frame and glass."The memory of buying the ax at auction, "whether it was $20 or $30, that experience of bidding on it" is still so vivid, Keno said. "It's funny that it was wrought iron, and I collect wrought iron today. It's funny -- we love all the things we grew up doing."When you�ve gotten to the part of actually selecting the bits and pieces of your vanity keep in mind that you will need the cabinet, the countertop, the basins, the fixtures, and hardware (drawer pulls and knobs). I always recommend mixing and matching according to your taste, especially if you can afford to do so rather than sticking with the pre made sets that many stores offer.Another advantage of having no reserve, he said, is that it attracts more people."The great thing about an auction is you never know how high it could go. ... When it does start low, you see hands in the air or phones ringing -- it gives you confidence that you're not just bidding against the reserve. You're bidding against real people who like the same painting or object that you like. Those are actual people, willing to spend money. You're not just bidding against an idea.""Being a dealer," Keno added, "buying and selling at auction and working at auction houses, you're able to see the whole range of things. You see the mediocre; you see the fakes. You see the better examples, and occasionally you see the best and the masterpiece."Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services."That's a great survivor," he said.When assembling Scouting memorabilia, try to determine the order in which the pins should be displayed. They should be in sequence or order of significance.Arrange your items, edit them and begin to secure them to the backing board in layers, back to front. Zacher uses a gun that secures fabrics to the board by means of a small plastic tab, much like clothing stores use to secure price tags. She says do-it- yourselfers can use a needle with monofilament or fishing line and actually sew the item down to the backing board. This is a time- consuming endeavor, but it will not damage the fabric like glue can, and it will allow you to change the display at a later time, should you need to as your decor changes. She often changes the color of a mat board on something like doilies or hand-worked fabric pieces. If they were glued to the backing, it might damage the piece to try to change it."All the hands shot up," Keno recalled, adding, "I will refrain from that."He said his first vivid memory of an auction was at a country auction in a barn, when their mother let the boys bid on an 18th- century broad ax, the kind that would have been used to cut beams."The best thing is finding things, going on visits. I'm in heaven when I'm looking at objects.""We once framed a missionary's worn-out shoes," she said. The shadow box also included the missionary's scriptures and items he had collected during his mission to make a unique and personal art piece.As the double sink design for vanities becomes more common, there are more and more suppliers of these special vanity tops cropping up all around. Finding them is the easy part, deciding which one is the best for you might be a little more difficult. Decide on the overall look you want for your vanity then choose the one that fits best with the overall design. Don�t rush your decision because once you�ve decided what you want, things will move rather quickly.

e-mail: vparsons@desnews.com

Author: Valerie Parsons Deseret News

Expert Leigh Keno takes antiques show on road

2011-08-17T01:19:00.001-07:00

HARTFORD, Conn. -- Leigh Keno was sprawled on the floor of the upstairs landing, twisting his body to get a good look at the bottom of a walnut lowboy and shining a small, hand-held yellow flashlight for a clearer view of its underside.

"That creates a feeling and belief that is good -- that it could sell for anything."You will also want to protect your items with UV protective glass. A good backing for the shadow box is a must. Use a suede board or an acid-free mat board. Some people use a velvet-covered board, but whatever you choose, make certain that it won't fade and that it is acid-free."You'll also want to fold your items and make sure that the bulk won't be too great for the depth of the shadow box." She showed how the scouting shirt can be folded around the backing board to become the background of the total display.Enter Jana Zacher. She is the quietly competent frame shop manager for Ben Franklin Crafts in Kaysville and has been framing for more than nine years. I asked for her expertise and advice. She gave me a wealth of information about shadow boxes in general and specific tips for shadow boxes pertaining to scouting.Organic items such as a bridal bouquet have usually already been dried. You can spray the item with a UV protective spray to preserve it further."You're a true treasure hunter," Keno wrote, in part. "You have ... a wonderful collection. I am truly honored to be here."Zacher also likes to secure metals (like an engraved plaque or badge) with E6000 glue or silicone. Both of these can be cut off later if needed."There are so many treasures here -- a treasure around every corner.""Every day is like a big treasure hunt for me. ... You never know what's going to be through that next door or the next set of steps that maybe go up to the attic," he said. "You never know what's going to be just beyond that."Having the double sink options allows both of you to use the space at the same time when in a hurry or simply gives you an opportunity to discuss your plans for the day as you are preparing for the day ahead. You also have added storage for those items that tend to clutter up valuable counter space below as well as more space to spread these items out along the vanity as well. I highly recommend keeping as much as possible out of sight however as this is not visually distracting.For a less formal arrangement, steel T-pins or pearl-top pins can be used to pin an item into place allowing the pin to show. But care should be taken, Zacher reminded me, in making certain that the pins are rustproof.Zacher says that when preserving material, it is important to be certain the items are as clean and neatly pressed as possible. Likewise with bridal gowns, sports jerseys or military uniforms.But I found, upon gathering everything, that I wasn't certain how to go about displaying them in the safest and most pleasing way.Special items can be kept longer as reminders of a wonderful era. "Not too long ago, I framed an icing flower from a wedding cake!" Zacher said. She has also framed crocheted baby booties, toys, ballet slippers, record album covers, military items, guns, tools, old veterinary and dental implements, two guitars and even a long warrior spear. Everything looks more important and special when it is arranged in an artful way and framed.The search for "something great" is "innate, almost, that's in all of us," Keno said. "It starts when we were little, finding seashells at the beach. ... That's an innate thing -- to collect and love objects. You can get so much joy and pleasure out of them."She further recommends the use of acid-free glue dots when securing Scouting pins. The glue dots, by themselves, may not hold up to extreme hot and cold, so she removes the back of the pin (those which have the pinch-type round backings) and punches the push-pin through the glue dot to hold it securely. The fabric should not be damaged by the glue dot, should you decide to change the arrangement at a later time.Keno said his "mantra is low estimates." And he plans to have as few "reserve," or minimum, prices as possible.GAVEL IN HANDTo secure heavier items, use wire to wrap around the item in an inconspicuous place and then secure the wire through the board. You will have to create a small pilot hole through your material and the backing board in order to push the wire through.Most important of all, Zacher says, is to be certain that the wire you use to hang your shadow box is strong enough to hold the weight of your items and attached to your shadow box securely.At the first West Hartford home he visited, he said, he was "like a kid in a candy shop." When he saw a small William and Mary spice cabinet with its original legs -- "an extremely important" piece dated 1737 -- Keno joked that we'd better call the paramedics.Keno plans to conduct the auction in Stamford himself. He said he has conducted auctions in the past -- briefly when he was at Christie's and, early in his career, for Doyle Galleries in New York. He plans to auction off 65 to 70 lots an hour. He already has about 580 lots for the auction, "give or take," and hopes to have about 800 for the two-day event."I have used multi-paned wooden windows to display pictures of children growing up," she said. They make wonderful shadow boxes for pictures of your children from infancy to young adult with included mementos.Zacher also explained that you want to preserve the unique quality of a piece. She tells of putting a shadow box together for a family whose mother had physical handicaps that made it nearly impossible for her to sew her Scout's badges onto his bandelo.My friend, Todd, has Scouting memorabilia leading up to his Eagle award. As a "crafty-type" person, I have assembled several shadow boxes for myself and others. Most of them were fairly small, simple and held only a few items. I figured it would be an easy task to assemble a shadow box displaying Todd's items.e-mail: vparsons@desnews.comYou will want to consider your budget for the project before making any major decisions about specific vanity tops, cabinets, or other hardware. A bathroom design can be second in expense to a kitchen design, but it will also have a significant impact on the overall value of your home so it is a worthy investment, particularly if you are going to enjoy your time in your home even more as a result of the remodel. In order to make sure you have enough money to complete your project, establish a realistic budget (by this I mean compare prices and know what�s available) with a little wiggle room for unexpected emergencies that may crop up and stick with it."It's a primal thing. Collecting is not just gathering; ... it's amassing and organizing.""Baby blessing gowns are one of my favorite things to shadow- box. They're just so sweet and pretty. You don't want to have a small stain of spit-up or drool yellowing your material for forever.""She had done the very best she could, and you could see how difficult it was for her." Some badges had to be stapled on, rather than stitched. The awkward stitches and staples were not replaced in the finished shadow box; rather, it was a point of pride for them to show. It was one of the things that added charm and uniqueness. They told a wonderful story of a determined Scouting family.

Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.

Author: Nancy Schoeffler The Hartford Courant

Find the Perfect LG Fridge Freezer Style for You

2011-08-16T22:18:00.005-07:00

LG is a company that many people trust to make superior electronics, and their line of fridge freezers is typically no exception to this rule. Fortunately, there is something for everyone when it comes to these appliances, which you will likely note as you look for the perfect LG fridge freezer for you. Consider some of the types available before you buy one.

Allmilmo USA: CIRCLE #391. Focus on flowers to create a country cottage themeKeystone Wood Specialties: CIRCLE #42

Clearly, nearly anyone can find a great LG fridge freezer for them, no matter their preferences when it comes to style or function. Just determine your price range, the amount of doors you want, and the style you enjoy most. Then it is time to start shopping for the perfect LG fridge freezer for your kitchen.

Author: Heather Mills

KITCHEN/BATH SPOTLIGHT: bathroom storage

2011-08-16T22:18:00.003-07:00

5. Accessorize, accessorize!- curtain rods- bedding items (i.e. comforters, quilts, sheets)If you prefer an updated style, consider the French door fridge, which features the freezer on the bottom and two doors on top for the refrigerated area. This type of LG fridge freezer often has plenty of space, particularly for the refrigerated part, as well as a drawer on the bottom that pulls out easily. Of course, this style comes with all the great features that most fridges come with, and then some, such as extra drawers and spacious shelves to keep food fresh and organized.2. Chase the blues away, with blue walls, wallpaper and wall artFOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #33FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #31In and Out Cabinetry: CIRCLE #41- murals (install them as you would wallpaper)- throw pillows- figurinesSieMatic: CIRCLE #47Canyon Creek Cabinet recently introduced Newcastle, a cabinetry line designed to provide a high-quality, entrylevel product for today's price-competitive marketplace. It features four wood door styles in maple in six different stain colors, and one thermofoil door in white.- wall hooksFOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #34Consider a garden theme bedroom for your pre-teen daughter. Include items such as floral wrought iron wall hangings to bring the lovely, relaxing aura of the outdoors - indoors!Quality Cabinets: CIRCLE #44Use beddings, throw rugs, and curtains with flowers, flower flowers (and perhaps some butterflies as well). The key is to keep everything light and flowery.Saint Charles Cabinets: CIRCLE #46ADDITIONAL RESOURCES- posters- pictures- throw rug3. Catch butterfly items for a butterfly garden theme- chairsYou can select among many types of fairy theme products, including:Poggenpohl: CIRCLE #43Wellborn Cabinets: CIRCLE #48Okay, so how do you transform fairy theme products to a fairy garden theme room? Simply add some dried flowers wherever you have fairy theme products. This will create an effect similar to the one that leaves metal wall hangings create.The new Logix EasyTrax Cabinet from Diamond Cabinets features a sliding shelving system with five trays that can be rotated along a heavy-duty ladder system. The sliding trays can be quickly changed into one-, two-, three-, four- or five-shelf combinations at varying heights.

Wellborn Cabinets: CIRCLE #48

How to Create a Garden Theme Bedroom For Preteen Daughters

2011-08-16T22:18:00.001-07:00

Has your daughter outgrown cartoon character or Flower Power bedroom theme? If so, then it is time to select a new theme for your pre-teen. Have you considered using a garden theme? Such a theme is ideal for daughters who have grown out of -girly- themes, but are not yet ready for themes that are more mature. A garden theme is light enough for pre-teens, yet not too -serious.- Here are some tips for creating a garden themed bedroom for your pre-teen daughter:

Kohler Co. expands its Persuade furniture collection combining design and performance. Options include a contemporary console table, timeless petite vanity, or a full-height vanity with storage space. The petite vanity has two pull-out drawers, and a frosted glass bottom shelf, while the full-length vanity is ideal for discrete storage of bathroom products.- wallpaper cutouts4. Let your imagination run wild with a fairy garden theme.- curtain tiebacksThe bathroom linen pantry from Studio Marler hides the medicine cabinet and provides easy access. The cabinetry is eco-friendly and frameless, built with 100 percent recycled materials, water-based dyes, no added formaldehyde and an ultraviolet finish.- tables- tissue holdersUse wallpaper cutouts of butterflies and flowers, and then attach them in various places on the bedroom's walls. Another idea is to paint grass or a pond at the base of the walls, to emphasize the garden theme. You can also find a wide variety of butterfly items in department stores, such as comforters, drawer pulls, lamps, pillows, rugs, and sheets.FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #35Rutt Custom Cabinetry: CIRCLE #45- trash cansNew River Cabinetry is a newly formed company offering semi-custom cabinetry. The company offers 70 popular finish colors available in both stains and paints, and 20 fashionable new door styles and eight wood species.- lampsThe key to a country cottage theme is flowers. Use wallpaper borders with flowers or outdoor cutouts on the walls. Other options include stencils to create various outdoor scenes. Only include a tree if the room is relatively large. Items to add include butterflies, birds, bunnies, cats, and a picket fence.Mix and match accessories to find the perfect combination.FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #28FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #32For those who enjoy ultra modern appliances, LG makes a fridge that features four doors instead of two or three. This is in the style of the typical French door fridge freezer, but features two drawers on the bottom instead of one. Both bottom drawers are dedicated to the freezer, allowing you to be extra organized. This also lets you keep the items you do not need often in the bottom drawer, and those that you use frequently in the top one.The New Blox modular component system by Xylem allows homeowners to design their own personal bathroom space. The mix-ormatch bath furniture system offers storage flexibility including some unique storage components. Its vanity drawer units have large European-crafted drawers that are open-sided and pull out with the entire face of the vanity. for more info circle #29FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #38Clearly, nearly anyone can find a great LG fridge freezer for them, no matter their preferences when it comes to style or function. Just determine your price range, the amount of doors you want, and the style you enjoy most. Then it is time to start shopping for the perfect LG fridge freezer for your kitchen.Crown Point: CIRCLE #40Consider painting the walls sky blue, to represent-well, the sky. You can further embellish the walls with a variety of wall art, such as leaves metal wall hangings. This will help to create the aura of a garden. Such wall art is available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Make sure that the wall art complements other elements in the room, such as the carpeting, furniture, drapes, and beddings.- lampThe custom-designed hamper complete with side vents is part of a Venetian-inspired master bath and dressing area from Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry. The smooth black painted finish and Vogue door style also is incorporated on the adjacent vanity.The Merillat base vanity hamper is designed to conveniently store laundry outof-sight. Its tilt-out design makes it easy to store dirty laundry, and the removable basket can be taken directly to the laundry room.FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #30Songe from Sonia is a staid, boxy contemporary vanity that is flexible and adaptable, with plenty of storage for bathroom essentials. It's available in a multitude of colors and in a one-color set-up for those who want a more dramatic look.SalonCenter from Armstrong Cabinets is designed to provide convenient solutions for the bath. A self-contained pull-out system, it allows for organization of hair dryers, curling irons and other vanity items. Several other cabinet accessories complete the bath, making it work well and look good (shown here in Waverly door style in new Vanilla Cream finish).The number of items that you can use to accessorize your garden theme bedroom is nearly unlimited. They include:If you are looking for a traditional fridge that features a freezer on the top, and a refrigerated section on the bottom, this company should satisfy you. LG takes a basic design and refreshes it with contoured doors, hinges that you cannot see, and energy efficiency. This is clearly not the same fridge that you typically saw decades ago in most kitchens, as this company has updated it while keeping the traditional look. If you are more into the look of the side-by-side, which is also considered conventional, you can still find an LG fridge freezer that is ideal for you. This manufacturer offers several, most of which have a water dispenser that is taller than average, as well as an extra spacious interior so that you can store tons of food.

Consider a garden theme bedroom for your pre-teen daughter. Include items such as floral wrought iron wall hangings to bring the lovely, relaxing aura of the outdoors - indoors!

Author: Alyssa Davis

Readers' Poems […]

2011-08-16T19:17:00.005-07:00

Should I Finish My Log Furniture?

2011-08-16T19:17:00.003-07:00

The natural look of log furniture is one of the reasons it is becoming a more popular home d�cor not only for the log home market, but other home styles as well. We are frequently asked this question. I want to keep my log furniture looking as natural as possible, should I have it finished? The answer to this is in our opinion is yes. Finishing can change the appearance somewhat depending on the type of wood or finish, but the rewards are well worth it in the long run.

The oils in our hands are easily absorbed by unfinished wood. Of course our hands are never perfectly clean and the dirt is also absorbed right into the wood with the oil leaving soiled areas where your hands frequently touch the furniture. On a bed this is usually either the headboard or the footboard. On dressers, of course the drawer pulls and the edge around the top gets the most handling. If an item is finished, washing is easy. It's another story on bare wood. Some folks have taken the furniture out to the shop to sand it down again, but most people don't have the proper tools or just don�t want to mess with it. It's easier to just have it finished to begin with. Finished log furniture will pass the test of time in keeping your furniture looking good for many years.Red Cedar is a different kind of animal. An oil base finish will darken the wood to a deep red or purple color, however a water base acrylic finish will leave it more of a pinkish color. You often have the option when ordering to purchase it unfinished and finish yourself or have the company finish it for you.The basic furniture pieces used in any bedroom typically include a bed, side tables, one or more dressers and a wardrobe. Decorating the bedroom with all of the pieces in matching wood tones is the best way to create a classic effect. With that said, pine and oak can take on many different looks and decor styles depending on the shade of the wood, whether or not it has been given a stain, the amount and type of detail added to each piece, and the type of hardware used.Copyright 2005 Great Lakes Rustics LLCSo, should you finish your log furniture? We strongly recommend it. We think you will be happier in the end.

Author: Mike Messer

Creating A Classic Bedroom Look With Wood Furniture

2011-08-16T19:17:00.001-07:00

The lines of the furniture can be arched, curved or straight. Each feature will produce a different effect. In addition, the thickness of the wood will also contribute to the look. Very thick, chunky oak will be a dominating force in the room. It tends to look more rustic than thinner, less bulky, pine furniture. Pine also has elements intrinsic to the wood like dark, circular knots that will vary with each furniture piece. Oak may have visible grain patterns throughout that add character to any item. Pine and oak can be given a dark or light stain to alter the color of the wood. The type of hardware used will also contribute to the style of the furniture. Stainless steel drawer pulls in a simple round shape tend to look more modern when with paired with pieces that have clean, simple lines and flat surfaces. Chunky pieces with large wrought iron or metal drawer pulls give off a more rustic vibe. Another thing to think about is the about of detailing on each piece such as an inlaid design, molding or abstract designs carved into the wood.Some types of wood used in log furniture construction such as Pine or Aspen will darken only slightly with the application of a finish. The exception to this is White Cedar. The finish on White Cedar will actually change this wood from a very light uniform color, to a very beautiful distinctive color variation between the sapwood and the heartwood. The heartwood will become somewhat darker giving it a very unique character.

Author: Naresh Shah

Preschoolers' room should be full of fun

2011-08-16T16:18:00.005-07:00

By Jura Konciusand Liz Seymour

Recently, the Board of Elections pulled out of its file drawer an unpublished private letter ruling issued by an assistant attorney general in 1992, which stated that a "professional" who provides voluntary professional services to a political candidate will be deemed to have made an in-kind contribution to that candidate. In such a situation, the value of the in-kind contribution will be computed by multiplying the number of hours spent by the professional times the professional's hourly rate.Reader: Why not have the preschoolers make the artwork themselves? Buy some sturdy paper or pulled canvas and a few different paint colors that match the color scheme of the room. Then have the kids go at it! Frame the pictures and update them every few months.Maryland's campaign laws prevent anyone from contributing more than $4,000 to any single candidate or more than $10,000 to all candidates over the course of the four-year gubernatorial election cycle. Thus, the 1992 ruling would mean that any attorney who volunteers his or her services on behalf of a candidate for more than a couple of hours each year has, over a four-year period, violated the state's election laws and is subject to being sent to jail for up to six months.To balance and enhance the visual depth with the wooden, walls are sometimes treated with a textured paint or plastered. (The previous bungalows have original plaster.) A good wager is the riv rock end that Ralph Lauren paint provides. Paint schemes bear an affect from dynamics with goldenrod yellows, burnt sienna browns, cimmaron and Indian reds, sage and moss greens, and a neutral palette of earthy tans, toasts, and beiges. The general feeling includes a harmony, continuity, with all components working together, none upstaging the other. It's about making an organic home, one that functions within its atmosphere and tends to make probably the most of its environment each outdoors and inside.The 1992 private letter ruling relied upon a statute currently located at Section 13-233 of the Maryland Code's Election Law Article, which states: "This Part V of this subtitle ("Contributions - Limits") does not affect the right of an individual to: (1) volunteer the individual's time...." Thus, the Election Law on its face applies to everyone. In Maryland, anyone can volunteer his or her time to support chosen candidates. Despite the clear language of the statute, the 1992 private letter ruling announced that a different rule applies to "professionals." The 1992 letter cited no support for this purported exception, and in fact there is none.Who else would qualify as a professional? No one knows because the only source authority is the 1992 private letter ruling, and it only discussed graphic designers. Certainly attorneys and CPAs are professionals. This is significant because, in many political campaigns, CPAs volunteer as campaign treasurers. Other people serve as volunteer fundraisers, volunteer strategic advisers, volunteer finance committee chairpersons and volunteer office managers. Are these people also considered "professionals"? The question is important, for a violation of the election laws by a "professional" could earn the unfortunate volunteer up to six months in jail. And, as more and more volunteers are characterized as "professionals," the greater is the likelihood that the "professional exception" announced in the 1992 private letter ruling will overwhelm and entirely swallow up the clear statement of the law in Section 13- 233.The Maryland State Board of Elections has recently sought the advice of Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler on this issue. In light of the fact that the 2010 campaign is already well under way, we urge Mr. Gansler to complete his analysis quickly. The 1992 private letter ruling was incorrect and unconstitutional when issued and remains so. The attorney general should promptly acknowledge this fact and thus relieve attorneys as well as all other "professionals" in Maryland from any anxiety that they might face imprisonment if they volunteer their time this year in support of their preferred candidates for public office.End the anxietyAnswer: Buy nice planters and get small trees or bushes to put in them. Boxwood, camellia, hibiscus or oleander make a nice tall statement. An outdoor rug is also fun. What about a fire pit?

Author: Jura Koncius

The Return Of Arts And Crafts - New And Contemporary Style

2011-08-16T16:18:00.003-07:00

The terms Arts and Crafts and Objective Fashion are often utilized synonymously today. They refer to a style of house design and furniture emphasizing natural supplies, especially wooden, and showcasing a pronounced geometry in the style. Their tremendous revival in reputation stems largely from their association with hand-crafted components (although several knock-offs are produced by machine), a rarity in this technologically superior age. The items offer an heirloom high quality along with a patina that deepens with age. Arts and Crafts furniture and interiors are also usually extremely durable and traditional with a timeless appeal. They suit today�s wish to simplify and get back to basics. Arts and Crafts interiors are an perfect marriage of function and aesthetic; spaces are created to function for individuals residing there. To produce your personal Arts and Crafts inside, there are a number of components to consider, both in supplies and style.

In ruling that the contribution limits challenged in that case were constitutional, the Supreme Court explicitly stated, "The Act's contribution ceilings thus limit one important means of associating with a candidate or committee, but leave the contributor free to become a member of any political association and to assist personally in the association's efforts on behalf of candidates."Lights in an Arts and Crafts or Mission home is vital, especially with all the darkish woods and depth of color schemes well-liked. Although ceiling lights, including recessed, can provide a good common light, it's far more effective and pleasing to adopt a wealth of luminaries. Torchieres (flooring lamps that give uplight, and therefore are greatest positioned in corners) can provide valuable common lighting, while desk lamps and flooring lamps supply invitation and welcome. Accent lighting can be carried out with mantel lamps, sconces, and dresser lamps. The two most typical kinds of lamps are the mica and metal styles (the physique of the lamp becoming hammered bronze or copper, the shade a sheet of mica) and also the artwork glass lamps with wood or artwork glass bases and shades of glass in geometric habits along with a squared coolie form. Other lighting options include a prosperity of reproduction lights via several lighting sources such as Arroyo Craftsmen and Yamagiwa. (They are available via designers and also have an excellent line of Frank Lloyd Wright styles.)First Amendment issueIn this regard, one obvious question is, "Who is a professional?" The 1992 private letter ruling suggested that a graphic designer performing voluntary work designing a campaign's literature would be considered a "professional." Recently, the Maryland State Board of Elections relied on the 1992 private letter ruling in suggesting that a person serving as a voluntary "spokesman" for a candidate would also be considered a "professional."Flooring, all architectural trim/molding, doorways, stair rails and stiles, and exposed structural supports are all typically wood, oak being most prevalent. Waxed or oil finishes prevail. Joints are pegged, or hand-crafted metal hardware is used. Door knobs, cabinet pulls and the like are once more hand-crafted wrought iron or bronze in black, umber, or verdigris. Several are square or rectangular formed and therefore are hand hammered. For a lighter appear, some home owners today are opting for a soft brushed pewter or nickel end instead. Once you have the guidelines, you can bend them to go well with. If an alternative to a wooden floor is desired, tile or slate would be appropriate substitutes. The tile ought to be big and laid inside a linear pattern, not around the diagonal.Even more important than the utter lack of statutory support for the proposition advanced in the 1992 private letter ruling is the obvious First Amendment issue inherent in any attempt by the State of Maryland to restrict the right of its citizens to volunteer their time and talents to assist in the election of their favorite candidates.In its seminal Buckley v. Valeo decision, the U.S. Supreme Court held that the process of electing candidates to public office is integral to the operation of the system of government established by the Constitution and that "legislative restrictions on advocacy of the election or defeat of political candidates are wholly at odds with the guarantees of the First Amendment."

Accents, equipment, and art work ought to be stored to some minimum to permit to get a fuller appreciation with the architecture with the home and materials of nature showcased. This is a good chance to supply balance towards the predominance of wood with components in goblet, ceramics, and metal. Each bowls and vessels are readily available in all supplies talked about right here. Iridescent ware in each ceramics and glass offers an airy complement towards the weight and depth of the wood.

Author: Amy Wells

Commentary: Making criminals out of volunteers

2011-08-16T16:18:00.001-07:00

Answer: Would you consider a black door to go with what you describe as a very classic house?Answer: I really like Ikea for kids' furniture, especially beds and dressers. I went to Anthropologie and got really fun drawer pulls that I used instead of standard ones on the dresser. I also got beanbags from the Company Store for my kids' rooms, and they love them.The Washington PostFurniture in the Arts and Crafts house are again wood, occasionally with a wrought iron or ceramic tile accent. Goblet is hardly ever utilized. Tables, becoming functional too as great looking, frequently have a minimum of a drawer and a shelf for storage. Shapes are squares, rectangles and octagons. Today more rounds are available. Again, the geometry produced by edges is most obvious. Sofas and chairs are sometimes wood backed with uncovered wood arms and cushions that can be easily cleaned or modified out relying on the season. Flexibility and adaptability are prime features. Mission style goes a step additional and frequently offers sofas or chairs with a deep wood shelf surrounding them acting as the arm along with a desk (Frank Lloyd Wright design), which provides the illusion of the built-in item. Leather is frequently utilized or materials in natural fibers such as cotton, linen, or wool. Wealthy colours and geometric or patterns drawn from dynamics abound. Probably the most significant interest will come from the combination of elements, once more, no 1 piece dominating. Active habits are used sparingly, growing longevity and versatility of the furnishings. Resources for furniture consist of Stickley, American Impressions by Ethan Allen, and Cotswald Furniture, a superior useful resource for hand-crafted furniture and more in Atlanta.Question: We have a back deck off our main floor, along with a brick patio from the walk-out basement, which makes for a shaded sitting area. My question is how to decorate under the deck. We were thinking of stringing solar-powered lights and getting a bistro- style patio set.Fireplaces have wood or stone mantels, with stone, ceramic or sometimes brick surrounds. The wooden is again oak having a golden stain, usually waxed or rubbed, not polyurethaned. Satin or matte finishes rule. Stone is field stone-- stacked dry or with mortar, it presents a fantastic textural visual. RIV rock may be utilized as an alternative and also the spherical clean stones provide a counterpoint towards the rectilinear geometry otherwise current. Ceramic tiles will typically possess a motif from dynamics, perhaps a leaf or acorn, or be an iridescent end. These days glass tiles are also used to great advantage. Brick, when employed, is smooth faced and laid in clean horizontal bands. Once more, one of the clear features of an Arts and Crafts inside is the linear quality. The sensation that the house is component of a larger view, part of the horizon, is all an work to become from and of the earth.The more recent Supreme Court decision in Meyer v. Grant is even more directly on point. In that case, a Colorado law made it illegal to pay people to circulate petitions seeking to amend the state constitution. Stating that such a restriction requires "exacting scrutiny," and finding the rationale for the law proffered by Colorado to be without justification, the Supreme Court overturned the Colorado law as unconstitutional.The materials of an Arts and Crafts interior, although not limited to nature, emphasize wooden, jewel, glass (made from sand), ceramic tiles (made from minerals/earth), and textiles (utilizing wool, cotton, or linen fibers, and, of course, leather-based). Much with the visible pattern comes from the grain with the wooden selected. Traditionally oak was used, but currently natural cherry is frequently loved. The oak tends to have a golden brown gleam, although the cherry is redder. Each darken naturally with age, which would be to be expected.In light of the fact that it has been held unconstitutional to prohibit paying people to work for a political campaign, isn't it clear that it is equally unconstitutional to prohibit professionals from volunteering their time on behalf of a political campaign? At least in the Meyer case, Colorado had relevant legislative history that it could point to as a means of trying to justify its law; in this case, there is no legislative history on point because the restriction on professionals was entirely the creation of an assistant attorney general in 1992, and the private letter ruling contains no clue as to the basis for the ruling.Editorial Advisory Board members Elizabeth Kameen and Donna Hill Staton did not participate in this opinion.Question: I'm trying to figure out what shade of blue I should use for my front door. The house is red brick with white window trim and a cedar and white front porch. I've decided to paint the porch floor navy blue.Who's a professional?Answer: Start with something like one fun pillow in a shade you would never have chosen. Go to a place like West Elm or Pier 1 Imports or Marshalls or Target. With brown and green, you might add touches of sky blue, red or even lavender.Historically, many of the Arts and Crafts and Objective houses sported artwork goblet windows, or at least many panes. This enabled windows to be left uncovered and nonetheless seem ornamental. Today, artwork goblet windows can be price prohibitive besides in select areas, so if therapy is preferred for both privateness, light, or heat manage, easier is much better. This translates to either plain Roman shades, silhouettes, wood blinds, or panels on either tabs or rings on a ornamental rod (wooden or wrought iron) with finials. If tiebacks are preferred think about sisal tassels, easy and daring, or perhaps a band of the same material as the drapery. No trim or other decorative element is needed. Material patterns may herald nature, this kind of as being a leaf print, or be primarily based in geometry. There's a wide range on the marketplace these days including historical prints by William Morris and styles by Frank Lloyd Wright. The same might also be discovered in wall covering, though use it sparingly as it's often busy and distracting. Arts and Crafts and Mission Fashion these days each symbolize a wish to get a wholesome, hearty way of life, a return to yesterday�s values.Now the Maryland Board of Elections seems to be determined to not only place limits on campaign contributions but in addition to place narrow restrictions on the rights of professionals to assist personally in the campaigns of their favored candidates.

Editorial Advisory Board members Elizabeth Kameen and Donna Hill Staton did not participate in this opinion.

Commentary: Mom had a tough job

2011-08-16T13:17:00.005-07:00

My mother was a genius, and so was yours.

3 | Santa Fe ModernBoho chic in DenverI've been a builder most of my life; I'm 72 so that's a long experience, all in custom building. I've built two marinas, boats, liveaboard-floating-homes, land homes, and even computers. In my view~ production homes are not built "incorrectly" but they are built with expethence ... shortcuts are in cosmetics and detailing. Doors will be functional but not beauti�il; moms will not have crown moldings; floors will be carpeted or even tiled but not finer hardwood with embellishments; and windows will not have multiple lites or panes. These, then, are examples of the expethent manner of building a production home. It doesn't diminish anything but the lifestyle enhancement For most people, that's OK. Some, even most, people never develop their tastes beyond that and can accept production because it is in their means. When their tastes do develop, it sometimes manifests in improvements to their production home. You may be seeing that result in your new first home and find it a comfort and maybe even attractive. I hope you do.4 | Subtext Gallery The gallery-plus-store's aesthetic runs from pop surrealist to lowbrow, but is always affordable. In a mix of photography, illustration, and graphic design, the sweet spot is limited-edition silk-screen prints ($40-$100). Open by appointment; 2479 Kettner Blvd.; subtextgallery.com or 619/546-8800.George Nelson clock ($545) from Boomerang for Modern (boomerang formodern.com).For accessible modem design, walk down Kettner in Little ItalyWide planks set off furniture pieces like an armchair made from Plexiglas and driftwood (surprisingly comfortable). Black-and-white horses gallop by on the walls, compliments of local photographer Tony Stromberg. Closed Sat-Sun; Suite A105; santafemodern.com or 505/ 992-0505.For that vintage-meets-handmade look, head to South BroadwaySearch beyond the Sputnikera lamps and refurbed vinyl sofas for tinted martini glasses and tribal wooden beads. As of April, the store was to move down the street (from #66) to a bigger space. 24 Broadway; leealexdecor.comFor kitsch-free Southwest style, look to the Pacheco Park complexI write today looking out upon a 12-foot-tall cedar play set while my 1-year-old son alternately tries to climb the staircase to the second floor and pull glass lids from kitchen drawers, adding an occasional thud or cymbal crash to the ambient noise.Eames rocker ($475) from Boomerang for Modern.

He's back in my office, the dog having won that argument. I should hit save and send this before he pushes that but

Author: Ted Streuli

FEEDBACK

2011-08-16T13:17:00.003-07:00

Following is a collection of your opinions on various subjects taken from email and the RD B blog.

Can't get there? Order theseWHY DO PRODUCTION BUILDERS GET A PASS?Lama Li handmade papers (form $6) from Meininger Art Supply (303/698-3838).--JESS CHAMBERLAINHe has re-closed the office door and is chewing on the wire connected to the speaker on the bookcase. I'm guessing that's unhealthy.Solar lanterns by Allsop Home & Garden ($23 each) from T-Trove Asian Decor (303/722-0949).1 | Mixture A sunny loft space offering large-scale contemporary furniture--such as a curved sectional with a chaise that looks like a cushioned slide, or a Moooi lamp, its shade atop a lifesize black horse. Can't fit that into your carry-on? Choose from books, colorful tea towels, and tableware. Closed Mon; 2210 Kettner Blvd., mixturehome.comDavidM. Hammer, AIAGene Maiorano2 | Form Function At Santa Fe's go-to lighting source, don't miss the Japanese-paper sconces from Jacqueline Mallegni--who makes her ethereal lights using rattan and willow from Abiquiu--or the tapers in saturated shades like pumpkin and seafoam. Suite A101; formplusfunction.com or 505/820-7872.Santa Fe cowboy modNo one, as I recall, was so desperately busy all of the time until we got the tools to make things easier.Degnan Design Buildershttp://bit.Iy/hXg88oTim CapaldiSTAY Porto Vista welcomes pets and holds yoga classes on the roof. But the boutique hotel also embraces a kind of '60s Bond-girl lifestyle, with black-and-white photo murals to illustrate. From $99; portovistasd.comHe's back in my office, the dog having won that argument. I should hit save and send this before he pushes that buthttp://bit.ly/elWmoe

Birmingham, Mich.

Shop these streets: three cities, three streets, and three distinct styles for your home

2011-08-16T13:17:00.001-07:00

Retro cool in San Diego

As an architect, I took great offence to Jay Grant's recent article "Marketing a spec home without buying the lot" (January 2011, page 8). His advice is very good for the home builder, a decent deal for the landowner, and all built on the expense of the architect who is "paid for his plan only if the effort results in a sale." Architects are notoriously bad businesspeople, and giving away free work with no reward (other than being paid the usual fee) is among the top of the list. Architects who participate in any such arrangement should either pull out a house plan they already have in the drawer (and been previously paid for design) or agree to a higher than usual fee to compensate for the risk. Otherwise, your magazine is promoting for builders to capitalize on the same bad business practices architects face from maltors, banks and others who have created the current housing economy.EAT There's not a red-checkered tablecloth in sight at airy Bencotto, run by transplants from Milan and Modena. Choose from eight sauces (such as spicy pancetta) and homemade pastas. $$; 750 W. Fir St.; 619/450-4786.STAY The El Rey is Santa Fe's hipster-vintage motel of choice, cozy casita-style rooms, heated pool, and all (for more details, see "50 Under $150," page 89).Ceramic vase ($44) from Mixture (mixturehome.com).There is an upside: I am writing in pajama pants, T-shirt and slippers. Downside: I have eaten two bowls of Cap'n Crunch, six handfuls of Cheez-Its and a bag of popcorn. The baby has eaten toast, organic risotto and a handful of dog food.It was coffee grounds. Non-poisonous, which has become my only criterion for concern. If it doesn't involve the CDC, I don't panic.He has wandered into my home office and pulled the door closed behind him, which surprises him, so the current ambient noise is frantic baby-banging on a glass door.Bamboo, wool, and silk yarns (from $6) from Fancy Tiger Crafts (303/733-3855).2 | Architectural Salvage The gently musty aroma in this 5,000-squarefoot treasure trove will quicken the pulse of any This Old House fan. Piles of drawer pulls and house numbers beckon, though you can also take home entire doors or windows--or maybe just some soda-pop signs from the 1950s. 2401 Kettner Blvd.; architecturalsalvagesd.comSan Diego retro cool4 | T-Trove Asian Decor The exterior may look like a warehouse, but the chi inside this showroom is fantastic. Check out the desk devoted to calligraphy, including how-to books and brushes. Closed Sun; 189 S. Broadway; t-trove.com or 303/722. -0949.--STEVE KNOPPERWe are here because said baby spent most of the night impersonating Vesuvius. There were a lot of sheets and jammies to wash, but not much sleep to be had. It seemed that might warrant a trip to the pediatrician, who does not have an appointment available until tomorrow afternoon. The last time we had an afternoon appointment at the pediatrician we showed up 10 minutes early and sat in the waiting room until our appointment time had come and gone and an additional hour had passed. After our five-minute visit with the doctor, we waited another 40 minutes in the exam room for the nurse to come administer the vaccinations. The explanation: She got busy on the phone and forgot we were in there.He has learned to open the large drawer that holds the kitchen trash containers. I don't know what he has just removed from the trash bag, but it's headed for his mouth. I'll be right back.EAT El Diablo, a spacious family place with a huge square bar in the center and) funky red lamps, supplements a surprisingly wide taco selection with chocolate-drizzled churros. $; 101 Broadway; 303/954-0324.1 | Victoria Price The daughter of actor Vincent, Price blends contemporary furnishings with a traditional Southwest vernacular. Look for the work of locals Sherry Stein, who sews sturdy canvas workbags, and Yuki Murata, creator of minimalist tableware. Suite B102; victoriaprice.com or 505/982-8632.It's definitely a challcnge to push yourself outside that comfort zone from time-to-time but when you do and you embrace it, the feeling is amazing. I look at it as a way to not only be a better person but to also be that much better at what I do in the buikling industry. I pushed outside of my comfort zone this past summer and decided to start writing a blog (crafti 945. blogspot.coin). I had no idea what I was doing at first but found my way and made a commitment to keep pushing on.Firebird MonoRail pendant lamp (from $290) by Tech Lighting from Form Function (formplusfunction.com).Soule Studios ceramic cafe bowls ($40 each) from Santa Fe Modern (santafemodern.com).Assuming tomorrow's appointment goes about like the last one, my productivity for Tuesday and half of Wednesday will be greatly reduced. Despite that, I have been able to read and respond to e- mail, check my calendar, and adjust the greeting on my voice mail so that if you tried to call me at work today you would know that I'm not there.4 | Four What happens when four artists, designers, and antiques dealers join forces? An eclectic mix of old and new, from 100-year-old Persian rugs to sleek leather handbags from Colombia. Coolest find: a super-soft felt throw of churro wool made in the high desert north of town. Suite C202; 505/995-8411.Working at home raises a plethora of questions best left to the Human Resources Office. Should the parent be charged with a sick day if he works from home? What if she doesn't work a full eight hours? Is it simpler to have the employee off and tell him not to work, or is some work better than a full day lost?2 | Decade Alongside clothing aimed at the Etsy girl--colorful scarves, flowery dresses--you'll find the quirky likes of ceramic bird-adorned drawer pulls and canvas wall hangings. An old tomcat, Stella the Fella, struts around like he owns the place. 56 S. Broadway; decade-gifts.comDeForest, Wig.1 | Lee Alex DecorDesign book ($50) from Mixture.Abe Degnan5 | Santa Fe by Design New Mexico designers hold their own on this showroom's A-list of international kitchen-and-bath fittings names. We're fans of a local blacksmith's hand-forged iron door hardware and curvy vessel sinks by Stone Forest. Closed Sat-Sun; Suite D101; santafe bydesign.com--KATIE ARNOLD3 | Fancy Tiger Crafts The DIY knitting, felting, and crocheting capital of Denver lures craftkids in thick-framed glasses with Japanese pink-robot-print fabrics, silk and bamboo yarn, and clumps of multicolor wool. 1 S. Broadway; fancytiger.com or 303/733-3855. The same crowd hits Meininger Art Supply (499 Broadway; 303/698-3838) to scour racks of colored pencils, markers, and papers.RD B BLOG3 | Boomerang for Modern set in tight spaces, the couches, tables, and chairs by the likes of Charles and Ray Eames are displayed on a scale that makes it easy to imagine them at home. Closed Sun; 2475 Kettner Blvd.; boomerang formodern.com or 613/239-2040.1930s Double Saddle Navajo blanket ($4,200) from Victoria Price (505/982-8632).I'm a custom home builder and design/build remodeler. But I'm also very connected to the rest of our market in the Madison Area Builders Association (Madison, Wis). The "big dog" builder in our market has seen its ups and downs (before the companies merged and became who they are now), but I can say that they are genuinely concerned about their quality control, and they have the National Housing Quality award to prove it. I even overlap with them on numerous subcontractors, and when it comes to those subs, they are among the best of the best. in fact, knowing what I kno~ I would sooner refrr someone to the biggest production builder in our market than to some of the midsize, "semi-custom" builders in our market. As a remodeler, I get to see the worst of the worst and sometimes some pretty good work, too.EAT At the Chocolate Maven, around the corner, refuel on a grilled chicken sandwich, and save room for a chocolate buttercream cupcake. $$; 821 W. San Mateo Rd.; 505/ 984-1980.Cowboy mod in Santa FeThere is a terrible noise coming from the living room. It is not, as I had feared, an invasion of Huns here to lay waste to our otherwise perfectly manicured subdivision. It is merely the dog and the boy yelling at one another over who has rights to said dog's tail. Since the dog outweighs the boy by a ratio of four to one, my money's on the dog.Denver boho chicSTAY There's not much nearby, but downtown favorites like the Teatro (from $189$; hotelteatro.com) and the Oxford (from $220; theoxford hotel.com) are just a 15-minute drive away.Birmingham, Mich.I have also managed a conference call today and, with a little luck, the completion of this column, which I shall e-mail to the office. None of those things were possible when our parents were raising us. If there was a sick child, someone stayed home and did nothing but care for the patient, and that was usually Mom's job. She still managed to take care of work, without the benefit of a smart phone, e-mail, or conference calling, but it waited. There were no three-hour doctor's visits then, and even if Mom couldn't do business for a day, it didn't seem to significantly impair the speed of commerce.5 | Klassik The midcentury couches and club chairs at this vintage furniture and accessories shop look trim but feel solid. Many have been reupholstered in deep reds and earth tones, and are so comfy you'll wish you'd brought a book. 989 W. Kalmia St.; klassikdesign.com or 619/640-6995. -KATRINA BROWN HUNTLEARN OUTSIDE THE COMFORT ZONECapaldi Building Co.

Solar lanterns by Allsop Home & Garden ($23 each) from T-Trove Asian Decor (303/722-0949).

Perfectly Matched Decorative Cabinet Knobs and Pulls Enhance Popular Moen Bath Suites

2011-08-16T10:17:00.005-07:00

Set up the Stackable Roll Down Water Bottle Rack inside your refrigerator to free up valuable space. You can store water bottles or soda bottles on the gravity-fed racks so that the next bottle is always within sight and reach. Stack a couple of these racks and you�ll find that you still have plenty of shelf space on top of the upper rack. Smaller items like tubs of butter or cream cheese will fit there perfectly, leaving other areas of your refrigerator clear for taller items.For more information about decorative cabinet knobs and pulls from Moen, visit moen.com or call 1-800-BUY-MOEN (1-800-289-6636).Make a tiny bathroom look larger.You can fit more canned goods in a cabinet when you use the Three Tier Can Rack Shelf. These racks feature three angled shelves that allow cans to roll down�the next can is always in the front. The vinyl-coated wire racks hold up to sixty cans, so you�ll quickly see how much room you can save with these space-savers. You�ll also be thrilled at how quickly you can access what you need because you can see it and reach it easily.Kids climbing the walls? Try scrubbable paint.The Lid Rack Organizer is just as helpful. It stands inside a cabinet, allowing you to organize your pot lids or plastic lids for easy access. The rack is made of thick chrome-plated wire for sturdiness and at 12.25 inches wide, it will hold plenty of lids within easy reach.

Spruce Up Your Home Without Busting Your Budget

2011-08-16T10:17:00.003-07:00

Do-it-yourself tips for summer remodeling projects

Keep spices convenient to the food preparation area by storing them in the Spice Stack. The three tiers of this organizer hold up to twenty-seven full size spice bottles, or up to fifty-four half-size bottles. A drawer pulls out of each tier and flips down on hinges so you can see what you have. The drawers are color-coded so you can organize your spices even better, and the whole unit fits inside a standard sized kitchen cabinet.For an easy and inexpensive way to brighten up a kitchen, install under-the-counter lighting. A small purchase at the hardware store is all it takes to completely change the way the light hits the surfaces of a room. You can also save energy dollars by choosing the right lighting. "Switch from incandescent light bulbs to highly efficient compact fluorescents, and you'll use about one-quarter to one-third less energy to produce the same amount of light," Vandervort says. Another tip: move natural light further into rooms by bouncing it off the ceiling. A window located close to the ceiling works for this, as do louvers or operable blinds that can help direct light.When it�s time to prepare a meal, you need to get to your cooking and baking ware faster, too. The Free Standing Bakeware Holder sits inside any cabinet and allows you to organize bakeware, serving trays or platters. Made of rust resistant coated steel, this holder is durable as well as handy.Expand space with drawer organizers.Contact: Tammy Howard Marketing Communications Manager Creative Specialties International (800) 321-8809, Ext. 2346 tammy.howard@moen.com Kristi Stolarski or Alissa Kiktavy Falls Communications (216) 696-0229 kstolarski@fallscommunications.com or akiktavy@fallscommunications.comBrighten it up.About Moen Moen, the 2010 EPA WaterSense ® Manufacturer Partner of the Year, offers a diverse selection of thoughtfully designed, on-trend kitchen faucets , bathroom faucets , bath accessories , showerheads , and stainless steel sinks for residential and commercial applications. As a WaterSense partner, Moen has aligned its priorities with the goals of the U.S. EPA, working to protect the future of our nation's water supply through the introduction and ongoing support of water-efficient products, programs and practices, while keeping consumers' needs top-of-mind.Ketchup, food, scuff marks, mud all these things can just be wiped clean with some of the new high-performance paint finishes available today. "Interior paints have a scrubbability rating, established through standardized testing," Vandervort says. "Though this rating may not be posted on the can, a paint retailer should have information on the rating.""One problem with using a flat paint on interior walls is that it doesn't take kindly to scrubbing," he says. "If you scrub it with a damp cloth, you'll remove the dirt or smudge, but the exposed pigment particles can ruin the finish. To avoid this, choose a high performance paint (not flat), that can stand up to a good washing."Kitchen pantries are great places to store a lot of canned goods and other food items. But it can often be a chore to dig through what�s in there in order to find what you need. So why not keep your most commonly needed items closer to hand? The Slim Slide Out Pantry fits between the refrigerator and the kitchen counter. Casters give it an effortless glide so you can pull it out and quickly see and grab the exact item that you need.Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=1639512Who hasn�t wished occasionally that she could whirl refrigerated items out of the way to see what�s behind them? Place the Fridge Lazy Susan in your refrigerator and you�ll find yourself accessing commonly used items faster than ever before. You�ll no longer have to dig for that bottle of ketchup or jar of pickles. And not having to dig around means you�ll be more efficient when it comes time to set out condiments for lunch. And this special organizer will stay in place because of the suction cups on its legs.A beautifully designed faucet can change the look of your sink area and the way you feel about your drinking water. Simple faucet design lines can make a clean and modern addition to the kitchen or bathroom sink, while some faucet models can even improve the taste of the water coming from the tap. "Not everyone likes the taste of their tap water," says Vandervort. "For those who choose the filtration route, an attractive, yet practical solution is the ClearTap Water Filtering Kitchen or Lavatory Faucet, made by American Standard. It removes contaminants, retains fluoride, and produces clean, good tasting water with the turn of a faucet handle."Jazz up cabinets with snappy new drawer pulls.For more easy and inexpensive tips on sprucing up your home this summer, visit www.americanstandard-us.com or www.hometips.com.If you have very limited space for your spice collection, consider the Spice Clip Set. This allows you to hang your spice bottles inside a cabinet door or on the wall near your meal prep area. The three tiers hold four bottles each, so you�ll have up to twelve bottles of spices within easy reach when you�re rushing to prepare a meal.These days, it�s easy, inexpensive and fun to get the kitchen organized. And an organized kitchen means an organized cook. With the right accessories, you�ll never feel like a harried cook again�no matter how little time you have to prepare that next meal.

For more easy and inexpensive tips on sprucing up your home this summer, visit www.americanstandard-us.com or www.hometips.com.

Author: ARA Content

Kitchen Organizers That Make Mealtime a Cinch

2011-08-16T10:17:00.001-07:00

Organizers aren�t limited to cabinets or the pantry. The refrigerator can use a little help too, in order to help you quickly find what you need when it�s time to prepare dinner. The Fridge Roll Out Caddy keeps foods readily accessible. Each wheeled bin rolls smoothly on your refrigerator�s glass shelves, allowing you to pull a refrigerator�s depth worth of items out for a quick look. Made of rugged plastic, these caddies are also dishwasher safe.Customers have come to rely on Moen, the #1 faucet brand in North America, to deliver dependable products and service. Moen is part of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO) ( www.fortunebrands.com ), a leading consumer brands company.Pour on the charm: upgrade the faucet.Another organizer that allows you to see and access food stuffs quickly at meal prep time is the Adjustable Door Rack. Hanging on the inside of the pantry door, this 67 inch high frame features seven wire baskets, each 5 1/2 inches deep. They can hold canned goods, cereal boxes or other food items�whatever you need to get to quickly. And that means that meal prep time will go faster.Gain a foothold on more attractive flooring.(ARA) - Ah, summer. Between neighborhood softball games and trips to the community pool, it's the biggest time of the year for moving and home remodeling.One of the simplest ways to add pizzazz to the kitchen is to install new cabinet hardware, says home improvement expert Don Vandervort of www.hometips.com. "At your local hardware store you'll find a wide array of drawer pull designs - from painted ceramic or metal knobs, to whimsical designs shaped like knives and forks. Simply unscrew your existing cupboard hardware, replace with the new, and presto, you've completed a quick an inexpensive update for your home."Each collection features a knob and a three-inch drawer pull Designed to match seven popular Moen ® suites in both style and finish: 90º -- Chrome and Brushed Nickel Bamboo ® -- Brushed Nickel Icon -- Chome and Brushed Nickel Iso -- Chrome and Brushed Nickel (coordinates with the Level collection) Kingsley -- Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze Rothbury -- Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze Waterhill ® -- Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze Limited Lifetime WarrantyFlooring makes a huge difference in the appearance of a kitchen or bath. "Oftentimes vinyl flooring is dated and worn," Vandervort says. "But the good news is that you can go ahead and lie new vinyl or laminated wood material right over the old flooring. Many of the items available today give the look of ceramic tile or natural wood at a lower cost."Even a bathroom the size of a phone booth can look larger with a little ingenuity, according to www.americanstandard-us.com. Try using lighter, cooler colors: they feel airy and trick the eye. Wallpaper with a smaller pattern also helps expand the space. Try some on the ceiling, or emphasize horizontal lines with a coordinating border. Or try installing bath tile that contains a subtle pattern and then repeat it onto the floor. If your bath is really petite, try using a trim pedestal lavatory or wall hung fixtures - both free up valuable floor space. Also, remember to go heavy on the lighting and choose reflective surfaces, such as a shiny marble vanity.

Author: Josh Lanier

five Modern Bathroom Layout Ideas

2011-07-11T11:17:00.001-07:00

Would you say your over-all pattern type sleek and chic? Do you like the accurate architecture of a area with its linear simplicity instead that an overly adorned and accessorized room? If you would like to translate your present day vision into your Grasp Bath here are a number of layout suggestions to benefit get you started.

1. Cabinetry - When it arrives time to deciding upon the style and design of your cabinetry lean towards thoroughly clean, crisp and streamlined furnishings. - To formulate a lighter and sleek bathroom natural environment look into cantilevered cabinetry secured to the wall constructing a minimal glance to the vanity piece. Establish some drama with strip lights added to the bottom side of the cabinet - which will cast a warm glow to the floor under. - Offer you added designed in wall-to-wall storage elsewhere in the bathroom to compensate for the diminished storage in the vanity spot. - Deep dark wealthy woods evoke a feeling of warmth to the clear lines of up to date design and style.

2. Fixtures - Crisp thoroughly clean and smooth white fixtures talk to the contemporary/modern style and design. - If space will allow for introduce just one of the hottest trends - a at no cost- standing bathtub. They are readily available in all styles and dimensions and nothing at all produces a far more dramatic focal level in the bathroom than an exquisite free-standing tub. Simply just place it in front of a impressive photo window with a breathtaking check out as the backdrop.

3. Surfaces and Supplies - Make the most of strong surfaces for countertops, if quartz, limestone, granite, concrete or glass to give it a thoroughly clean contemporary look. Continue to keep the edges rather simple and square for uncomplicated servicing and sophisticated fashion. - At all times introduce an unique backsplash materials in contrast to the counter best shade and materials. Whatsoever the surface area I like to apply it on all walls from flooring to ceiling. It produces instant architecture and adds useful detail and drama to the space. - Glass tile, mosaic, stone or ceramic information are just a number of of the remarkably ornamental backsplash products and solutions out on the current market in the present day that build a sense of modern model. - Always keep geometry in thoughts when choosing the substance for your contemporary backsplash. Take into consideration tile designs that are rectangular, oversized, or little mosaics to establish detail in the pattern of the software. If the tile is oversized and rectilinear install it in a brick pattern. If it truly is form is longer and thinner then s!

tacking the tile creates a relatively useful present day vibe. Keep away from the common square tile in any size.

4. Magnificent Shower - Formulate a steam shower with multiple rain heads, and physique sprays. If your price range lets, create chromatherapy and aromatherapy to your grasp bath want listing as effectively. These fittings signify the epitome of modern high end structure. You should not neglect a created in bench and entry panel to hide the steam system. - Style a total seamless glass enclosure from flooring to ceiling and end the inside with complimentary mosaics or stone tile to set it apart from the rest of the room. This glass enclosure creates a a lot more visually open space within just the general room.

five. Accessories - Do not forget to maintain clutter and display to a minimum. - Accessorize with towels in a vivid coloration for punch or stainless steel and woods. Preserve almost everything to a minimal and clutter complimentary. - Choose chrome, nickel or silver toned drawer/door pulls, towel bars, towel hooks and paper holders for sparkle. - Frame vanity mirrors in woods or silver tones - in very similar finishes to the other components adorning your contemporary bath.

Draw the bath and love the present day luxuries of your new space.

Writer: Lori Gilder

FEEDBACK

2011-07-10T23:17:00.001-07:00

Following is a collection of your opinions on various subjects taken from email and the RD B blog.

DavidM. Hammer, AIA

RD B BLOG

WHY DO PRODUCTION BUILDERS GET A PASS?

http://bit.ly/elWmoe

Gene Maiorano

Dobbs Ferry, NY.

I'm a custom home builder and design/build remodeler. But I'm also very connected to the rest of our market in the Madison Area Builders Association (Madison, Wis). The "big dog" builder in our market has seen its ups and downs (before the companies merged and became who they are now), but I can say that they are genuinely concerned about their quality control, and they have the National Housing Quality award to prove it. I even overlap with them on numerous subcontractors, and when it comes to those subs, they are among the best of the best. in fact, knowing what I kno~ I would sooner refrr someone to the biggest production builder in our market than to some of the midsize, "semi-custom" builders in our market. As a remodeler, I get to see the worst of the worst and sometimes some pretty good work, too.

Abe Degnan

Degnan Design Builders

DeForest, Wig.

LEARN OUTSIDE THE COMFORT ZONE

http://bit.Iy/hXg88o

It's definitely a challcnge to push yourself outside that comfort zone from time-to-time but when you do and you embrace it, the feeling is amazing. I look at it as a way to not only be a better person but to also be that much better at what I do in the buikling industry. I pushed outside of my comfort zone this past summer and decided to start writing a blog (crafti 945. blogspot.coin). I had no idea what I was doing at first but found my way and made a commitment to keep pushing on.

Tim Capaldi

Capaldi Building Co.

Birmingham, Mich.

Find the Excellent LG Fridge Freezer Type for You

2011-07-10T11:17:00.001-07:00

LG is a enterprise that the majority of women and men believe in to make superior electronics, and their line of fridge freezers is often no exception to this rule. The good thing is, there is a thing for nearly everybody when it comes to these appliances, which you will most likely notice as you appearance for the most appropriate LG fridge freezer for you. Have a look at some of the variations attainable prior to you acquire 1.

If you are searching for a classic fridge that capabilities a freezer on the leading, and a refrigerated area on the bottom, this agency will want to satisfy you. LG normally takes a standard layout and refreshes it with contoured doors, hinges that you won't be able to see, and vitality performance. This is clearly not the identical fridge that you typically saw decades ago in most kitchens, as this corporation has up-to-date it whereas holding the regular start looking. If you are greater into the glimpse of the facet-by-facet, which is also thought about standard, you can even now locate an LG fridge freezer that is most suitable for you. This maker has several, most of which have a water dispenser that is taller than common, as perfectly as an extra spacious inside so that you can keep tons of food.

If you opt for an updated style, look at the French door fridge, which benefits the freezer on the bottom and two doors on prime for the refrigerated location. This form of LG fridge freezer often times has lots of area, especially for the refrigerated component, as well as a drawer on the bottom that pulls out simply. Of course, this style arrives with all the awesome elements that most fridges come with, and then some, these as extra drawers and spacious shelves to preserve food refreshing and organized.

For those who take delight in ultra modern appliances, LG would make a fridge that functions 4 doors as an alternative of two or a few. This is in the model of the regular French door fridge freezer, but options two drawers on the bottom alternatively of just one. Each bottom drawers are focused to the freezer, letting you to be additional organized. This also lets you always keep the things you do not ought all too often in the bottom drawer, and all those that you use typically in the top 1.

Evidently, virtually any individual can come across a remarkable LG fridge freezer for them, no matter their preferences when it arrives to design or function. Just determine your price tag selection, the volume of doors you want, and the style you enjoy most. Then it is time to launch browsing for the ideal LG fridge freezer for your kitchen.

Author: Heather Mills

Double Sink Vanity Designs for Guys and Gals

2011-07-09T23:17:00.001-07:00

If you are married or dwell with your important other and even remotely bearing in mind a bathroom redesign or overhaul, do your spouse a favor and choose for a double sink vanity in your bathroom. You have no concept how major of a deal this is until you have just one. Although there are a large number of choices in vanities and designs, if you have the area, this is by far the optimum issue you can do in a shared bathroom.

Acquiring the double sink solutions helps equally of you to use the space at the exact time when in a hurry or quickly offers you an chance to explore your plans for the day as you are planning for the day ahead. You also have extra storage for those objects that are likely to clutter up priceless counter area below as properly as considerably more space to spread these products out along the vanity as effectively. I really suggest keeping as very much as conceivable out of sight then again as this is not visually distracting.

As the double sink design and style for vanities turns into a good deal more general, there are considerably more and a great deal more suppliers of these unique vanity tops cropping up all approximately. Getting them is the rather simple portion, choosing which one particular is the right for you would most likely be a small more troublesome. Resolve on the total look you want for your vanity then pick out the just one that fits optimal with the all round design and style. Don�t rush your judgement as a result of as soon as you�ve determined what you want, facts will move fairly promptly.

You will want to take into account your price range for the project before generating any key decisions about precise vanity tops, cabinets, or other hardware. A bathroom layout can be second in cost to a kitchen style, but it will also have a major effects on the total appeal of your home so it is a worthy purchase, notably if you are going to love your time in your property even added as a consequence of the remodel. In purchase to make sure you have adequate cash to total your task, create a realistic spending budget (by this I mean review charges and know what�s obtainable) with a minor wiggle space for unexpected emergencies that could very well crop up and stick with it.

When you�ve gotten to the piece of really choosing the bits and pieces of your vanity preserve in brain that you will really need the cabinet, the countertop, the basins, the fixtures, and hardware (drawer pulls and knobs). I nearly always urge mixing and matching in accordance to your style, notably if you can afford to do so relatively than sticking with the pre produced sets that a lot merchants deliver.

One time you�ve put all the items jointly, you require to resolve how they are heading to be put in. Do you have the understanding and self confidence to do the set up all by yourself or do you demand to pay an individual to do it for you. I continually urge if you can afford somebody else to do it, go that route. This way if some thing will get broken or damaged throughout the installation practice it need to be taken care of and repaired by them. If you break it your self, it�s your private difficult luck. Of program this adds a sizeable cost to the over-all price of your task and if you have some education of fundamental plumbing, cabinetry, and the other strategies concerned, you need to be just excellent. The stop aim of program is the awesome double vanity that you will have when the challenge is comprehensive.

Writer: Osmundo Bernabe

Explore the Great LG Fridge Freezer Style for You

2011-07-09T11:16:00.001-07:00

LG is a company that some folks rely on to manufacture exceptional electronics, and their line of fridge freezers is usually no exception to this rule. The good news is, there is a little something for absolutely everyone when it arrives to these items, which you will likely note as you start looking for the top LG fridge freezer for you. Check out some of the forms available previous to you get one particular.

If you are looking for a ordinary fridge that qualities a freezer on the top rated, and a refrigerated part on the bottom, this producer will need to fulfill you. LG will take a regular pattern and refreshes it with curved doors, hinges that you can not see, and vitality effectiveness. This is clearly not the very same fridge that you frequently noticed decades in the past in most kitchens, as this manufacturer has up to date it while preserving the regular physical appearance. If you are increased into the overall look of the side-by-aspect, which is also regarded as conventional, you can nonetheless discover an LG fridge freezer that is terrific for you. This producer delivers a number of, most of which have a h2o dispenser that is taller than typical, as properly as an more spacious interior so that you can retailer a lot of food.

If you opt for an up-to-date variety, look at the French door fridge, which functions the freezer on the bottom and two doors on top notch for the refrigerated part. This kind of LG fridge freezer all too often has tons of room, mainly for the refrigerated part, as perfectly as a drawer on the bottom that pulls out readily. Of training course, this variety arrives with all the impressive elements that most appliances arrive with, and then some, these as extra drawers and vast shelves to retain food clean and organized.

For all those who seek out ultra modern-day appliances, LG would make a fridge that possesses four doors rather of two or 3. This is in the design of the regular French door fridge freezer, but benefits two drawers on the bottom instead of 1. Each bottom drawers are devoted to the freezer, making it possible for you to be extra organized. This also lets you maintain the items you do not will need typically in the bottom drawer, and all those that you use a great deal in the top notch just one.

Clearly, almost virtually anyone can attain a awesome LG fridge freezer for them, no issue their preferences when it comes to look or operate. Just check out your total price selection, the variety of doors you want, and the type you like most. Then it is time to commence browsing for the superb LG fridge freezer for your property.

Author: Heather Mills

How to Generate a Backyard Theme Bed room For Preteen Daughters

2011-07-08T23:16:00.001-07:00

Has your daughter outgrown cartoon character or Flower Electricity bed room concept? If so, then it is time to decide on a new theme for your pre-teen. Have you deemed using a garden concept? These a theme is most suitable for daughters who have grown out of -girly- themes, but are not however prepared for themes that are additional mature. A backyard concept is light plenty of for pre-teenagers, yet still not too -major.- Here are some points for developing a garden themed bedroom for your pre-teen daughter:

one. Concentrate on flowers to build a place cottage concept

The important to a place cottage theme is flowers. Use wallpaper borders with flowers or out of doors cutouts on the partitions. Other options encompass stencils to design many different out of doors scenes. Only incorporate a tree if the space is reasonably major. Items to include include butterflies, birds, bunnies, cats, and a picket fence.

Use beddings, toss rugs, and curtains with flowers, flower flowers (and perhaps some butterflies as clearly). The important is to retain all kinds of things light and flowery.

two. Chase the blues away, with blue walls, wallpaper and wall artwork

Think about painting the partitions sky blue, to symbolize-properly, the sky. You can even more embellish the partitions with a range of wall art, such as leaves metal wall hangings. This will benefit to make the aura of a garden. These types of wall artwork is on hand in a wide variety of styles and sizes. Make positive that the wall art complements other aspects in the room, this kind of as the carpeting, furnishings, drapes, and beddings.

3. Catch butterfly products for a butterfly garden theme

Use wallpaper cutouts of butterflies and flowers, and then attach them in a range of areas on the bedroom's partitions. An additional concept is to paint grass or a pond at the base of the walls, to emphasize the garden concept. You can also choose a vast array of butterfly products in department outlets, like as comforters, drawer pulls, lamps, pillows, rugs, and sheets.

four. Let your imagination operate wild with a fairy backyard concept.

You can select between numerous forms of fairy theme programs, together with:

- bedding products (i.e. comforters, quilts, sheets)

- figurines

- lamp

- murals (install them as you would wallpaper)

- night time light

- throw pillows

- throw rug

- wallpaper cutouts

Alright, so how do you transform fairy concept products and services to a fairy backyard concept room? Simply just include some dried flowers wherever you have fairy theme merchandise. This will design an influence related to the just one that leaves metal wall hangings generate.

5. Accessorize, accessorize!

The amount of products that you can use to accessorize your garden theme bedroom is virtually limitless. They encompass:

- chairs

- curtain rods

- curtain tiebacks

- lamps

- images

- posters

- tables

- tissue holders

- trash cans

- wall hooks

Blend and match components to unearth the optimal mixture.

Consider a backyard theme bed room for your pre-teen daughter. Feature objects this sort of as floral wrought iron wall hangings to provide the splendid, enjoyable aura of the outdoors - indoors!

Author: Alyssa Davis

Beverly Hills Cigar Club Supplies 3 Very good Picks for a Laid Again Holiday

2011-07-08T11:17:00.001-07:00

With the Boys of Summertime Gone, Suggestions for a Labor Day Smoke

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. -- For this Labor Day, Vin Lee, Beverly Hills Cigar Club CEO, has pulled out his optimal pick of the sticks -- 3 major drawer smokes to go along with any level of celebration to cap off the summer season. So irrespective of whether you are stoking up the Santa Anas of Southern California, making the most of the awesome breezes of the Boston shore or hanging with the hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, heed Lee’s advice, as these cigars are confident to make it that much cooler or that considerably hotter.

For the beginning cigar fanatic, Vin suggests you tie 1 on and tie one off for summer time 2010 with the Alec Bradley Prensado. This entire bodied, innovative cigar was rated a 93 by Cigar Insider. A superbly manufactured Honduras cigar engineered for a weekend celebration of the positive lifestyle, it is box pressed, giving even the most beginner smoker that additional hint of design that will impress the ladies. Light one up and then cool down with a chilled mug of Ionizer Lager from Lightening Breweries of San Diego.

Lee encourages his fellow cigar fanatics, people who can readily identify off their top rated five faves, to indulge in this year’s Labor Day with the Rocky Patel Decade. This great Sumatra cigar was 10 decades in the creating. With a 95 rating from Cigar Insider, the Rocky Patel Decade is a extraordinary complement to just one of Lee’s personal picks, the 2008 Native Yeast Chardonnay of Iron Horse Vineyards, especially if sharing both with that specific anyone.

Cigar Aficionados, the real keepers of the leaf, should really lock the humidor this Labor Day weekend. Hold all that vintage tobacco "on ice" and celebrate the coming of fall humming a single of Lee’s suggested favorites, a 601 Blue Label Maduro by tobacco genius Pepin Garcia and Miami's very own Eric "Shorty" Espinosa. Of program it wouldn't do that cigar justice to smoke a Blue Label if you failed to drink just one as effectively. So make positive to invite Johnny Walker along on your trip to Baja. Lee does recommend you press your cubes with AquaHydrate Mineral Water. No feeling in watering Walker down with something a lot less.

Notice: Vin Lee, CEO of Grand Metropolitan and Beverly Hills Cigar Club, is attainable to present greater ideas or comment.

Republicans target Wisconsin's prevailing wage changes

2011-07-07T23:17:00.001-07:00

State Rep. Mary Williams keeps in her Capitol office a tangible reminder of a law she says is holding down Wisconsin's construction industry.

Opening the top-right drawer of her desk Wednesday afternoon, the Republican from Medford pulled out a thick stack of paper and let it drop like a brick, smacking the surface with a thud.

"This is a document a contractor had to work with to do a job because of prevailing wage," Williams said. "It's just huge. There's all this paperwork in the front to fill out. It's a mess."

A year ago this month, Wisconsin's prevailing wage law changed, requiring contractors prove they are paying competitive wages to employees working on state and local government projects valued at $25,000 or more. The previous threshold for proof was $234,000, and the law required less paperwork.

Williams last year introduced a bill that would have repealed those changes. It failed to gain support in the Democrat-controlled Legislature.

But Williams now is preparing to introduce new legislation that could seek changes beyond those in her previous bill. She could, for instance, propose a complete repeal of the prevailing wage law or at least seek a higher threshold than the original $234,000.

"So, it's between (last year's bill) and the full repeal," Williams said. "We'll probably come out somewhere in between."

Construction groups perhaps have been the most outspoken critics of the prevailing wage law, but Williams said her desire to change it stems from municipalities in her district.

That includes her hometown of Medford, which struggles with the costs of basic projects now included in the $25,000 threshold.

"Small road projects change when you are paying considerably more," said John Fales, public works director for Medford. He said the prevailing wage changes forced Medford to shrink some projects, though he could not provide specific examples.

Fales noted the bad economy is mostly to blame for the lack of money municipalities have to pay for construction projects. The prevailing wage law has just made those projects even more expensive, he said.

Robb Kahl, executive director of the Construction Business Group, a joint labor-management organization, disagreed, saying the prevailing wage law actually makes projects cheaper for Wisconsin municipalities.

Kahl pointed to data released by the Federal Highway Administration, which shows Wisconsin, while paying roadworkers an average of $23.60 an hour, spends less money per mile of construction than such states as Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Alabama, all of which pay workers in the $10- to $11-an-hour range.

Higher wages, Kahl said, attract workers who care more about their jobs and build better roads. Watering down prevailing wage guidelines might add more jobs, but they would be the construction equivalent of fast-food jobs.

"If the intent is to increase the cost of construction, then a repeal of Wisconsin's prevailing wage law will also accomplish that," Kahl said.

Williams' legislation, Kahl said, would "create a lot of $10-an- hour jobs with no benefits to replace a lot of family supporting jobs, and eliminate construction workers as a skilled profession."

But Lee Turonie, a lobbyist for the Wisconsin Towns Association, said he is hearing just the opposite from his members. The association wants lawmakers to repeal the 2010 changes to the prevailing wage law. The $25,000 threshold has blocked new road projects in rural areas, Turonie said, though he did not provide specific examples.

"For a town, $234,000 is more than a lot of towns spend on roads in a year," he said. "The road projects were very much protected from this (under the old threshold).

"So, this was a big sea change for towns, particularly rural areas, where we did not get federal stimulus money for road projects."

Williams is gaining support from other Republican lawmakers, particularly those in rural areas. Rep. Michelle Litjens, R- Oshkosh, said prevailing wage was a hot issue during her fall campaign.

"I think we have to roll back the changes, at least to start," Litjens said. "When (towns are) laying a new layer of asphalt on a road and it's costing $50,000, it's not an efficient use of tax dollars."

Towns in her district, she said, "are putting off projects, and counties are using their own employees and not subbing it out to third parties because it costs so much more."

Litjens rejected Kahl's argument that repealing changes to the law would undermine construction work as a profession.

"I don't think this is anything against any group of workers," she said. "This is putting people to work."

Williams said she doesn't have a timeline for introducing her new bill. But she's keeping her gift from a frustrated contractor close to her as she considers how to draft the legislation.

"I have a funny idea," she said, "it's going to have to come sooner than later."

Author: James Briggs

"We found it by the curb!" When we saw this discarded vanity, we thought, Can one person's trash really be another's treasure? The answer is absolutelymeet our smashing new desk

2011-07-07T11:16:00.001-07:00

SHOPPING LIST: OUR SECRET WEAPONS

* Start with a vibrant color splash (we used Charlotte's Locks paint by Farrow & Ball; 1pt ., $30; farrow-ball.com).

* A Preval spray gun makes painting furniture easy ($10; preval.com).

* A Mona Lisa Gold Leaf Kit (from Flax; $11; 415/552-2355) adds gilded drama to the dull drawer pulls.

* DecoColor Liquid Gold Opaque Paint Marker defines small details ($2.50; amazon.com

* Extra credit: Tuck a collection of photos under a glass top (when ordering glass, ask for clear spacers).

HOW TO TELL IF YOU'VE GOT A KEEPER

* Look for quality: If the legs seem uneven, it's likely the whole piece of furniture is warped, so take a pass.

* Stick to pieces made from solid wood; you'll run into trouble trying to sand a veneer.

* If there are drawers, do they slide smoothly in their tracks? If not, walk on by.

MORE SURPRISING SALVAGE RENOVATIONS: sunset.com/salvage

BY MIRANDA JONES | PROJECT BY AARON JONES

Author: Miranda Jones

KITCHEN/BATH SPOTLIGHT: bathroom storage

2011-07-06T23:17:00.001-07:00

FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #28

The New Blox modular component system by Xylem allows homeowners to design their own personal bathroom space. The mix-ormatch bath furniture system offers storage flexibility including some unique storage components. Its vanity drawer units have large European-crafted drawers that are open-sided and pull out with the entire face of the vanity. for more info circle #29

The custom-designed hamper complete with side vents is part of a Venetian-inspired master bath and dressing area from Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry. The smooth black painted finish and Vogue door style also is incorporated on the adjacent vanity.

FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #30

Songe from Sonia is a staid, boxy contemporary vanity that is flexible and adaptable, with plenty of storage for bathroom essentials. It's available in a multitude of colors and in a one-color set-up for those who want a more dramatic look.

FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #31

The new Logix EasyTrax Cabinet from Diamond Cabinets features a sliding shelving system with five trays that can be rotated along a heavy-duty ladder system. The sliding trays can be quickly changed into one-, two-, three-, four- or five-shelf combinations at varying heights.

FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #32

The Merillat base vanity hamper is designed to conveniently store laundry outof-sight. Its tilt-out design makes it easy to store dirty laundry, and the removable basket can be taken directly to the laundry room.

FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #33

FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #34

SalonCenter from Armstrong Cabinets is designed to provide convenient solutions for the bath. A self-contained pull-out system, it allows for organization of hair dryers, curling irons and other vanity items. Several other cabinet accessories complete the bath, making it work well and look good (shown here in Waverly door style in new Vanilla Cream finish).

FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #35

Canyon Creek Cabinet recently introduced Newcastle, a cabinetry line designed to provide a high-quality, entrylevel product for today's price-competitive marketplace. It features four wood door styles in maple in six different stain colors, and one thermofoil door in white.

FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #37

The bathroom linen pantry from Studio Marler hides the medicine cabinet and provides easy access. The cabinetry is eco-friendly and frameless, built with 100 percent recycled materials, water-based dyes, no added formaldehyde and an ultraviolet finish.

FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #36

New River Cabinetry is a newly formed company offering semi-custom cabinetry. The company offers 70 popular finish colors available in both stains and paints, and 20 fashionable new door styles and eight wood species.

FOR MORE INFO CIRCLE #38

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Allmilmo USA: CIRCLE #39

Crown Point: CIRCLE #40

In and Out Cabinetry: CIRCLE #41

Keystone Wood Specialties: CIRCLE #42

Poggenpohl: CIRCLE #43

Quality Cabinets: CIRCLE #44

Rutt Custom Cabinetry: CIRCLE #45

Saint Charles Cabinets: CIRCLE #46

SieMatic: CIRCLE #47

Wellborn Cabinets: CIRCLE #48

Forming A Traditional Bed room Look With Wood Furnishings

2011-07-06T11:17:00.001-07:00

A bed room have to be a spot exactly where you can escape from the active day to unwind and relaxation. Thus, the environment demands to be relaxed, cozy and warm. The right way to reach this purpose is with the use of classic wooden furnishings, most definitely pine and oak. When these kinds of woods are added to any area, they instantly design a welcoming atmosphere. Wooden items are also recognised to endure for a rather extensive time. Even if the wood does experience some bumps or nicks, it adds to the character and enhances the seem of the piece. Everyone searching to deliver a bed room with a classic decor requirements to use pine or oak furniture items.

The basic furniture pieces put into use in any bed room frequently involve a bed, facet tables, 1 or additional dressers and a wardrobe. Decorating the bedroom with all of the items in matching wooden tones is the most appropriate way to establish a traditional result. With that says, pine and oak can get on loads of distinctive looks and decor designs relying on the shade of the wood, regardless if or not it has been granted a stain, the total and choice of detail additional to just about every piece, and the type of hardware utilized.

The lines of the furnishings can be arched, curved or straight. Every single aspect will yield a distinctive effect. In addition, the thickness of the wood will also contribute to the look. Notably thick, chunky oak will be a dominating power in the area. It tends to glimpse a whole lot more rustic than thinner, much less bulky, pine furniture. Pine also has aspects intrinsic to the wooden like dark, circular knots that will differ with every furniture piece. Oak might probably have visible grain patterns through that add character to any product. Pine and oak can be granted a darkish or light stain to alter the coloration of the wooden. The style of hardware utilised will also contribute to the design of the furnishings. Stainless metal drawer pulls in a painless round shape are likely to look and feel considerably more present day when with paired with items that have thoroughly clean, relatively easy lines and flat surfaces. Chunky items with giant wrought iron or metal drawer pulls give off a much more rustic vibe. An alternative factor to assume about is the about of detailing on just about every piece this sort of as an inlaid design, molding or abstract styles carved into the wood.

Reliable wooden wardrobes have greater in reputation above the several years. They are the most appropriate way to include further storage space to any bed room. There are a multitude of various variations and lots of interior configurations. Some may well have just a hanging bar inside, although some others could quite possibly also have a shelf previously mentioned the rack. Other wardrobe have possibly inside or exterior drawers, in addition to the hanging bar. These days, wardrobes can be utilized for additional than just storing clothes. They can even household tv sets or personal computers. Last but not least, recall that components like the wall colour, lights, flooring, draperies and bed linens will all contribute to the environment of any bedroom.

Author: Naresh Shah

The wonder goal wasn't THAT good!

2011-07-05T23:17:00.001-07:00

Byline: Pete Barrow

FOR fear of sounding like disgruntled of Tunbridge Wells, why oh why oh why do football commentators have to keep telling us that what happened last week was the 'greatest thing ever'? Apparently no one has ever scored a goal as good as Wayne Rooney's overhead kick that settled the Manchester derby, and this just seven days after Newcastle United's Ivorian international Cheik Tiot had been lauded as scoring the greatest ever goal as he bagged the Magpies' fourth as they recovered from four goals down to draw at home against Arsenal.

In no way am I trying to rubbish the efforts of United's Shrek-like striker, it takes athleticism and technical ability out of the top drawer to pull off a stunt like that, but the way some of the pundits and portrayers on television, and particularly on radio, reacted you had to wonder if they needed to change their underwear soon after.

The problem with claiming a goal to be the 'best ever' is that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and every football fan will have a different take on what constitutes a superb goal.

The spectacular individual effort will certainly tick the box for many fans and in that category I would instantly put Trevor Sinclair's bicycle kick effort from outside the area for QPR against Barnsley in January 1997 ahead of Rooney's goal.

But then Marco Van Basten's volley from an acute angle as Holland beat Russia in the 1988 European Championship final is arguably one of the best instant strikes of all-time, if that is what floats your boat.

Personally I would place two other categories ahead of the eye-catching finish - namely the solo run and the team goal.

Surely George Best drifting past what appeared to be the entire Sheffield United defence before producing the perfect finish has to involve more skill than a one-off strike.

And in this category you can start to throw in David Ginola's goal for Spurs at Oakwell (sorry I seem to be picking on Barnsley) or Ricky Villa's FA Cup final winner for Tottenham against Manchester City, or even John Barnes waltzing through the Brazilian defence to net at the Maracana.

Then you have to consider the team goals.

Again this is purely my opinion, but really has there ever been a much better goal than the one Argentina scored against Serbia and Montenegro in the 2006 World Cup finals.

Some say it was 26 passes, some say it was 25 and some say 24, but all that matters is that the way the ball was worked through for Esteban Cambiasso to score was simply stunning.

So I will concede that Rooney's strike was pretty special, but can certain sections of the media get a grip? Come on chaps you know it makes sense - and it could save you a fortune in those laundry bills you must be running up to get your smalls done!

CAPTION(S):

* LUCKY STRIKE: Wayne Rooney (centre) scores against City

Shop these streets: three cities, three streets, and three distinct styles for your home

2011-07-05T11:17:00.001-07:00

Retro cool in San Diego

For accessible modem design, walk down Kettner in Little Italy

1 | Mixture A sunny loft space offering large-scale contemporary furniture--such as a curved sectional with a chaise that looks like a cushioned slide, or a Moooi lamp, its shade atop a lifesize black horse. Can't fit that into your carry-on? Choose from books, colorful tea towels, and tableware. Closed Mon; 2210 Kettner Blvd., mixturehome.com

2 | Architectural Salvage The gently musty aroma in this 5,000-squarefoot treasure trove will quicken the pulse of any This Old House fan. Piles of drawer pulls and house numbers beckon, though you can also take home entire doors or windows--or maybe just some soda-pop signs from the 1950s. 2401 Kettner Blvd.; architecturalsalvagesd.com

3 | Boomerang for Modern set in tight spaces, the couches, tables, and chairs by the likes of Charles and Ray Eames are displayed on a scale that makes it easy to imagine them at home. Closed Sun; 2475 Kettner Blvd.; boomerang formodern.com or 613/239-2040.

4 | Subtext Gallery The gallery-plus-store's aesthetic runs from pop surrealist to lowbrow, but is always affordable. In a mix of photography, illustration, and graphic design, the sweet spot is limited-edition silk-screen prints ($40-$100). Open by appointment; 2479 Kettner Blvd.; subtextgallery.com or 619/546-8800.

5 | Klassik The midcentury couches and club chairs at this vintage furniture and accessories shop look trim but feel solid. Many have been reupholstered in deep reds and earth tones, and are so comfy you'll wish you'd brought a book. 989 W. Kalmia St.; klassikdesign.com or 619/640-6995. -KATRINA BROWN HUNT

while you are there

EAT There's not a red-checkered tablecloth in sight at airy Bencotto, run by transplants from Milan and Modena. Choose from eight sauces (such as spicy pancetta) and homemade pastas. $$; 750 W. Fir St.; 619/450-4786.

STAY Porto Vista welcomes pets and holds yoga classes on the roof. But the boutique hotel also embraces a kind of '60s Bond-girl lifestyle, with black-and-white photo murals to illustrate. From $99; portovistasd.com

ANDREA GOMEZ ROMERO (5)

Cowboy mod in Santa Fe

For kitsch-free Southwest style, look to the Pacheco Park complex

1 | Victoria Price The daughter of actor Vincent, Price blends contemporary furnishings with a traditional Southwest vernacular. Look for the work of locals Sherry Stein, who sews sturdy canvas workbags, and Yuki Murata, creator of minimalist tableware. Suite B102; victoriaprice.com or 505/982-8632.

2 | Form Function At Santa Fe's go-to lighting source, don't miss the Japanese-paper sconces from Jacqueline Mallegni--who makes her ethereal lights using rattan and willow from Abiquiu--or the tapers in saturated shades like pumpkin and seafoam. Suite A101; formplusfunction.com or 505/820-7872.

3 | Santa Fe Modern

Wide planks set off furniture pieces like an armchair made from Plexiglas and driftwood (surprisingly comfortable). Black-and-white horses gallop by on the walls, compliments of local photographer Tony Stromberg. Closed Sat-Sun; Suite A105; santafemodern.com or 505/ 992-0505.

4 | Four What happens when four artists, designers, and antiques dealers join forces? An eclectic mix of old and new, from 100-year-old Persian rugs to sleek leather handbags from Colombia. Coolest find: a super-soft felt throw of churro wool made in the high desert north of town. Suite C202; 505/995-8411.

5 | Santa Fe by Design New Mexico designers hold their own on this showroom's A-list of international kitchen-and-bath fittings names. We're fans of a local blacksmith's hand-forged iron door hardware and curvy vessel sinks by Stone Forest. Closed Sat-Sun; Suite D101; santafe bydesign.com--KATIE ARNOLD

EAT At the Chocolate Maven, around the corner, refuel on a grilled chicken sandwich, and save room for a chocolate buttercream cupcake. $$; 821 W. San Mateo Rd.; 505/ 984-1980.

STAY The El Rey is Santa Fe's hipster-vintage motel of choice, cozy casita-style rooms, heated pool, and all (for more details, see "50 Under $150," page 89).

Boho chic in Denver

For that vintage-meets-handmade look, head to South Broadway

1 | Lee Alex Decor

Search beyond the Sputnikera lamps and refurbed vinyl sofas for tinted martini glasses and tribal wooden beads. As of April, the store was to move down the street (from #66) to a bigger space. 24 Broadway; leealexdecor.com

2 | Decade Alongside clothing aimed at the Etsy girl--colorful scarves, flowery dresses--you'll find the quirky likes of ceramic bird-adorned drawer pulls and canvas wall hangings. An old tomcat, Stella the Fella, struts around like he owns the place. 56 S. Broadway; decade-gifts.com

3 | Fancy Tiger Crafts The DIY knitting, felting, and crocheting capital of Denver lures craftkids in thick-framed glasses with Japanese pink-robot-print fabrics, silk and bamboo yarn, and clumps of multicolor wool. 1 S. Broadway; fancytiger.com or 303/733-3855. The same crowd hits Meininger Art Supply (499 Broadway; 303/698-3838) to scour racks of colored pencils, markers, and papers.

4 | T-Trove Asian Decor The exterior may look like a warehouse, but the chi inside this showroom is fantastic. Check out the desk devoted to calligraphy, including how-to books and brushes. Closed Sun; 189 S. Broadway; t-trove.com or 303/722. -0949.--STEVE KNOPPER

EAT El Diablo, a spacious family place with a huge square bar in the center and) funky red lamps, supplements a surprisingly wide taco selection with chocolate-drizzled churros. $; 101 Broadway; 303/954-0324.

STAY There's not much nearby, but downtown favorites like the Teatro (from $189$; hotelteatro.com) and the Oxford (from $220; theoxford hotel.com) are just a 15-minute drive away.

Can't get there? Order these

San Diego retro cool

George Nelson clock ($545) from Boomerang for Modern (boomerang formodern.com).

Eames rocker ($475) from Boomerang for Modern.

Ceramic vase ($44) from Mixture (mixturehome.com).

Design book ($50) from Mixture.

Santa Fe cowboy mod

Soule Studios ceramic cafe bowls ($40 each) from Santa Fe Modern (santafemodern.com).

Firebird MonoRail pendant lamp (from $290) by Tech Lighting from Form Function (formplusfunction.com).

1930s Double Saddle Navajo blanket ($4,200) from Victoria Price (505/982-8632).

Denver boho chic

Bamboo, wool, and silk yarns (from $6) from Fancy Tiger Crafts (303/733-3855).

Lama Li handmade papers (form $6) from Meininger Art Supply (303/698-3838).--JESS CHAMBERLAIN

Solar lanterns by Allsop Home & Garden ($23 each) from T-Trove Asian Decor (303/722-0949).

Flawlessly Matched Ornamental Cabinet Knobs and Pulls Boost Fashionable Moen Bath Suites

2011-07-04T23:16:00.001-07:00

Moen goods are best-known for the focus to detail. And now, householders can create yet still a further striking pattern statement -- as clearly as performance -- in the bath with correctly matched decorative cabinet knobs and pulls.

Each and every selection options a knob and a a few-inch drawer pull Built to match seven widely used Moen ® suites in equally model and complete: 90º -- Chrome and Brushed Nickel Bamboo ® -- Brushed Nickel Icon -- Chome and Brushed Nickel Iso -- Chrome and Brushed Nickel (coordinates with the Level selection) Kingsley -- Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze Rothbury -- Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze Waterhill ® -- Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze Limited Life span Guarantee

For a lot more material about decorative cabinet knobs and pulls from Moen, go to moen.com or get in touch with one-800-Fork over money for-MOEN (one-800-289-6636).

About Moen Moen, the 2010 EPA WaterSense ® Producer Spouse of the 12 months, features a varied range of thoughtfully built, on-trend kitchen area faucets , rest room faucets , bath components , showerheads , and stainless steel sinks for residential and industrial programs. As a WaterSense partner, Moen has aligned its priorities with the targets of the U.S. EPA, working to protect the long run of our nation's h2o provide by way of the introduction and ongoing assist of water-effective merchandise, programs and practices, despite the fact that maintaining consumers' requires leading-of-brain.

Potential customers have arrive to rely on Moen, the #1 faucet brand name in North The usa, to deliver dependable goods and support. Moen is part of Lot of money Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO) ( www.fortunebrands.com ), a top rated shopper makes business enterprise.

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Make contact with: Tammy Howard Promotion Communications Manager Resourceful Specialties Worldwide (800) 321-8809, Ext. 2346 tammy.howard@moen.com Kristi Stolarski or Alissa Kiktavy Falls Communications (216) 696-0229 kstolarski@fallscommunications.com or akiktavy@fallscommunications.com

Kitchen Cabinet Hardware � A Beneficial Way To Spruce Up The Look Of Any Kitchen

2011-07-04T11:16:00.001-07:00

The kitchen area, it is the an individual space in the property that you and your relatives end up paying the most time in. Then, why is it that everyone tend to neglect it when it arrives to decorating and generating it look fabulous? If you are paying the most sum of time in there, then it will need to be equally stunning, if not greater, than the relaxation of your family home. 1 way to get your kitchen space on the best suited track is by selecting some new kitchen area cabinet hardware to give it a stellar, finished glance.

Now, you may possibly be thinking, how is new kitchen area cabinet hardware heading to make my kitchen area that dazzling? Effectively, merely because it has a satisfying appear which comes from the a large number of varying resources it can be prepared from. These resources contain aluminum, brass, stone, wood, ceramic, steel, zinc, pewter, plastic, wood, granite, even porcelain and glass. Just about every has a stunning overall look, plus, they are attainable in a variety of numerous finishes like brushed, antiqued, satin, polished, dull, and rubbed. With the content and completed opportunities, you can come across the ultimate ones to complement the kitchen cabinetry that you have, attaining any sort of seem that you want in your kitchen area. For example, maybe you want a fashionable, contemporary look and experience in your kitchen. Then, a brilliant alternative for you would be ones created out of metal that have a brushed end. Or, if you want greater of an antique think, then a good method are ones that are also created from metal, but rather have that antique complete to them. Seriously, you can set up any form of look that you want in your space considering that of all the several selections that are readily available. All of these products are also especially strong, which is most suitable for you considering they will last for many years and you will not have to be anxious about owning to switch them considering the fact that they break or get damaged.

When it comes to kitchen area cabinet hardware, there are alternative types that you can decide to buy relying on what you want to change in your kitchen area. You may well absolutely need new knobs and hinges for your cabinets, pulls for your drawers, and it's possible even a slide or track for inside your drawers. In all likelihood the ideal matter to do although is to get ones that match considering the fact that getting a miss-matched search in your kitchen area is pretty tacky. To pick precisely what you are trying for, a speedy and hassle-free way is to hit the On-line for some comparison purchasing.

So, if you and your household conclude up paying the most total of time in your kitchen, then it need to certainly be an individual of the rooms in your household that is the most spectacular. A single effortless and rather simple way of getting your kitchen area room into an stylish dream is by ordering some fabulous kitchen area cabinet hardware for it. Incredibly outstanding, these brilliant accent items will give your kitchen a finished glance that is certain to make sure you.

Writer: Jesse Akre

Kitchen Organizers That Make Mealtime a Cinch

2011-07-03T23:17:00.001-07:00

Getting ready meals is repeatedly a hurried chore, with time pressing in well before and immediately after. When it�s hard to get hold of spices or other food merchandise, containers or utensils, meal prep occasions can become annoying events. But there are a great deal of kitchen organizers accessible to make mealtime a cinch as an alternative of a trial.

Continue to keep spices effortless to the meals preparation space by storing them in the Spice Stack. The three tiers of this organizer hold up to twenty-seven complete dimensions spice bottles, or up to fifty-four 50 percent-size bottles. A drawer pulls out of just about every tier and flips down on hinges so you can see what you have. The drawers are color-coded so you can organize your spices even improved, and the total unit matches within a ordinary sized kitchen area cabinet.

If you have surprisingly constrained area for your spice collection, start thinking about the Spice Clip Set. This facilitates you to hang your spice bottles inside a cabinet door or on the wall in the vicinity of your meal prep location. The three tiers maintain 4 bottles each and every, so you�ll have up to twelve bottles of spices inside of easy attain when you�re rushing to put together a meal.

Kitchen area pantries are amazing sites to store a ton of canned goods and other food things. But it can routinely be a chore to dig by means of what�s in there in order to discover what you must have. So why not continue to keep your most usually essential merchandise closer to hand? The Slim Slide Out Pantry fits amongst the refrigerator and the kitchen counter. Casters give it an easy glide so you can pull it out and fairly quickly see and get the specific item that you have.

You can in shape even more canned items in a cabinet when you use the A few Tier Can Rack Shelf. These racks characteristic a few angled shelves that enable cans to roll down�the next can is consistently in the front. The vinyl-coated wire racks maintain up to sixty cans, so you�ll immediately see how much area you can help you save with these area-savers. You�ll also be thrilled at how quickly you can accessibility what you will need as a result of you can see it and achieve it simply.

One more organizer that allows you to see and access meals stuffs promptly at meal prep time is the Adjustable Door Rack. Hanging on the inside of the pantry door, this 67 inch large body qualities 7 wire baskets, each and every five 1/2 inches deep. They can hold canned items, cereal containers or other foods items�whatever you want to get to instantly. And that means that that meal prep time will go quicker.

Organizers aren�t restricted to cabinets or the pantry. The refrigerator can use a small aid also, in purchase to help you fast come across what you need to have when it�s time to get ready dinner. The Fridge Roll Out Caddy keeps meals readily accessible. Each wheeled bin rolls smoothly on your refrigerator�s glass shelves, permitting you to pull a refrigerator�s depth worth of things out for a swift appearance. Designed of rugged plastic, these caddies are also dishwasher risk-free.

Set up the Stackable Roll Down H2o Bottle Rack inside your refrigerator to totally free up beneficial space. You can save water bottles or soda bottles on the gravity-fed racks so that the subsequent bottle is definitely in sight and achieve. Stack a couple of these racks and you�ll uncover that you nonetheless have lots of shelf space on top notch of the upper rack. Smaller goods like tubs of butter or cream cheese will suit there perfectly, leaving other spots of your fridge obvious for taller objects.

Who hasn�t wished occasionally that she could whirl refrigerated things out of the way to see what�s behind them? Put the Fridge Lazy Susan in your fridge and you�ll pick oneself accessing frequently put to use objects a lot quicker than ever before before. You�ll no lengthier have to dig for that bottle of ketchup or jar of pickles. And not developing to dig about would mean you�ll be a great deal more effective when it arrives time to set out condiments for lunch. And this exceptional organizer will keep in area as of the suction cups on its legs.

When it�s time to put together a meal, you must have to get to your cooking and baking ware faster, also. The Cost-free Standing Bakeware Holder sits inside of any cabinet and facilitates you to organize bakeware, serving trays or platters. Manufactured of rust resistant coated steel, this holder is durable as perfectly as useful.

The Lid Rack Organizer is just as useful. It stands inside of a cabinet, enabling you to organize your pot lids or plastic lids for hassle-free accessibility. The rack is crafted of thick chrome-plated wire for sturdiness and at 12.25 inches huge, it will maintain lots of of lids within simple and easy attain.

These days, it�s simple and easy, affordable and enjoyment to get the kitchen organized. And an organized kitchen would mean an organized cook. With the precise accessories, you�ll in no way really feel like a harried cook again�no make a difference how small time you have to get ready that next meal.

Author: Josh Lanier

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