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Council Chambers
Tonawanda, New York
February 3, 2009
A Regular Meeting of the Common Council
Present: Council President Zeisz
Present Councilmembers: Perkins, Waterhouse, Kossow, Davis
Pledge of Allegiance led by Council President Zeisz
Prayer led by Council President Zeisz
Mayor's State of the City Address
Council President Zeisz, members of the City of Tonawanda Common Council, colleagues in city government, and residents of the City, thank you for attending this 2009 State of the City message, my fourth as Mayor. As required in Section 2.027 of the City Charter, "the Mayor shall communicate to the Common Council at its first meeting in February of each year a general statement of the affairs of the city in relation to its finances, government and improvements, with such recommendations as the Mayor may deem proper". This message is intended to not only satisfy basic Charter requirements, but to provide a level of detail that exceeds these basic requirements, in part because current economic and financial conditions warrant such detail. Although City of Tonawanda finances are sound and stable, we must recognize the City is operating in a significant, synchronized economic recession affecting global, national, state and local economies alike. While City finances are in relatively good condition, the City is obviously not immune from an economic environment that has seen our country lose two million jobs, the federal government inject over one trillion dollars to unfreeze credit markets, with more stimulus on the way, and New York State government faced with a $15.4 B deficit over two fiscal years. The fundamental challenge for us as elected and appointed officials remains the same, although the degree of difficulty has increased; provide vital public services at the least cost to the taxpayers. This task is especially difficult today. This message is intended to give the public and City officials a detailed statement of the current affairs of City government and steps that have, and will be taken, to minimize the negative economic and fiscal forces impacting the city of Tonawanda and to improve the business climate in our City.
Let me begin by discussing the current financial condition of City government. The City began fiscal year 2008 with an unrestricted general fund balance of approximately $1.8M. Additionally $250,000 was appropriated for use in the 2008 and 2009 operating budgets from the general fund balance, and $200,000 was reserved in a dedicated Tax Stabilization account. An additional $1.6M was reserved for self-insured workers compensation and liability insurance claims. Stated as a percentage, this $1.8M general fund balance represents 9.8% of the City's 2009 general operating budget, comfortably within the State Comptroller recommended range that prudently balances adequate reserves for unforeseen fiscal developments and an excessive balance that would tend to indicate higher than needed taxation rates and levies. Under the New York State Constitution, the city is permitted to levy property taxes at 2% of the City's most recent five year average of it's full value tax roll. At the present time, this five-year average is $544,830,534. Applying the 2% maximum taxation levy to this average yields a constitutional taxing limit of $10,896,611. Although the City's 2009 fiscal year property tax levy is $9,234,882, $1,886,611 of this amount is excluded in calculating the city's taxing limit because these funds are revenue based, rather than ad valorem property tax based. This means the city is taxing at a rate of $3,547,828 or 32.56% below its legal limit. Cities taxing at or near their constitutional limits is one important indicator of severe financial distress. Fortunately, the City of Tonawanda is not in this operating condition.
Major revenue sources to support the 2009 operating budget are not unreasonably dependent on any one type of revenue, especially sources beyond the direct control of the City. This fact is another positive indicator because its represents a degree of diversification and insulation for the City should any one source of revenue decline in value. For example, budgeted 2009 sales tax revenue of $4,200,000 represents 22.86% of city revenue; state aid totals $3,074,189 or 16.73% of 2009 revenue. City property taxes of $ 9,234,882 are 50.26% of all budget revenue. Although we all recognize the importance of holding the line on City property taxes, previously mentioned revenue figures mean the City is not overly or dangerously dependent on revenue decisions made by others, beyond the influence of City Officials.
Current City indebtedness for capital improvements and major purchases is approximately $11M. The New York State Constitutional limit for such debt is 7% of the previously referenced 5 year full value tax roll, or $38.1M. Therefore, the City has exhausted about 28.87% of its constitutional limit, an amount the State Comptroller and credit rating agencies would find both reasonable and manageable. This conclusion is confirmed by the fact the City has maintained its current bond rating of Baa1, the highest investment grade B rating offered by Moody's Investment Service and a credit rating that finds the City in the higher percentile of small cities in New York State. In fiscal year 2009 the City budgeted $1,097,299 to service outstanding debt obligations for existing capital expenditures. Stated as a percentage of the 2009 operating budget, debt service appropriations represent 5.97% of the budget, another indicator the City's operating budget is manageable, exhibiting favorable numbers the State Comptroller and credit rating agencies like to see.
The Water Fund began fiscal year 2008 with a deficit of $73,000. It is anticipated this deficit will be reduced by approximately $50,000 or 66% in 2009. This fiscal year the City will receive over $200,000 from the Erie County Water Authority, revenue from the $.49 surcharge per thousand gallons of water used. These funds will be used for debt service of water related capital costs incurred prior to the City's agreement with the Erie County Water Authority.
The 2008 Sewer Fund fiscal year began with a deficit of approximately $213,000. To address this negative fund balance, the City instituted a 5% rate increase from $3.20 to $3.36 per thousand gallons of water. An additional 5% increase was adopted for fiscal year 2009, increasing the rate from $3.36 to $3.53. Annual appropriations for treatment services to the Town of Tonawanda are approximately $1,000,000, a total expense, an increase of about $200,000 or over 20% relative to 2005 rates. These costs help illustrate the urgency of reducing the existing I&I problem currently found in the City infrastructure in order to reduce treatment costs services provided by the Town. Additional discussion on this important issue follows in a later section of this message.
The City must carefully monitor, manage and whenever possible control, vital and significant revenue and expense sources to maintain the fiscal integrity of the City and its most important planning and management tool, the annual budget. No issue is more important than doing what is necessary to hold the line on raising City property taxes and while providing vital public services. To accomplish this fundamental goal, the City must closely administer whenever possible major expense centers first, work to preserve outside revenue streams and be aggressive in growing the tax base by executing successful economic development projects and initiatives. Understanding existing conditions and developments, and developing contingency plans for these developments is a basic step in this regard. For example, given the fact we are in a severe economic downturn, we must anticipate a decrease in sales tax revenue. Relative to State AIM funding, the Governor is proposing the 12.75% increase the city was slated to receive in the 2008-2009 state budget will not materialize. One half of this increase will not be provided in this year's state budget and the other half will not be budgeted in the 2009-2010 state budget. The good news is no additional cuts in AIM funding have been proposed and are not anticipated. Due to the recession and the loss in value in the State Retirement Fund portfolio, the City has been advised to anticipate an increase in 2010 pension costs of about 33% or approximately $300,000.
Positive developments in managing City expenditures include the fact the city has reached voluntary, multi-year collective bargaining agreements with its four unions. Financial terms contained in these agreements are fair and reasonable; they provide a decent living wage for hard working City employees at a fair cost to the taxpayers. The City is aggressively working with representatives of an existing retiree group being provided medical insurance benefits mandated by a Settlement of Stipulation agreement under State Supreme Court jurisdiction, costing the City approximately $450,000 per year, that would provide comparable medical benefits for those retirees, but at a reduced cost to the taxpayers. With the cooperation of all the City's labor unions, the City has launched a labor-management committee that will meet on a monthly basis, to identify, research, work on and execute initiatives associated with terms and conditions of employment, that have real opportunity of providing contractual benefits at a reduced cost and sharing the savings to induce additional savings in the future.
City departments and personnel accomplished a great deal over the past fiscal year. Controlling the growth in City tax rates by doing more with less is an important component in managing the growth of City appropriations, the resulting cost of living and doing business in the City. Although time does not permit an extensive discussions of this work activity, this Council and the public deserves at least a summary accounting of the work activity and accomplishments of City employees and City departments.
City Treasurer Joe Hogenkamp needs to be recognized for the great work he performs on behalf the City of Tonawanda. Joe is a tireless administrator, managing vital City operations that range from managing the annual budget to oversight on employee benefit costs. A majority of successes enjoyed by the City can be directly tied to Joe's efforts.
The City of Tonawanda Police Department, under the leadership of Police Chief Cindy Young, responded to 16,015 complaints and made 760 arrests during fiscal year 2008. To maintain state departmental accreditation, Police Department personnel completed 2,786 hours of training. Auxiliary Police provided the City 461 hours of needed service. All Police Officers have completed required National Incident Management Systems training courses, meaning the City is now eligible for Federal Emergency Management Administration funding in the event of a declared emergency.
Under the management of Fire Chief Chuck Stuart, the City of Tonawanda Fire Department answered 2206 calls for assistance, including 1446 calls for EMS service and 108 fire alarms. Injuries incurred by Fire Department personnel decreased by 46%, and injuries to civilians by over 400% relative to calendar year 2007. Paid Fire Department personnel used only 115 sick days. 66% of these connected to three employees incurring long-term illness or injury. The balance of the Department used 46 sick days for the entire year, an average of only 2 days per employee. A great deal of work has been accomplished in establishing electronic Preplan data files. These files contain essential information about individual building and structure characteristics, information that is vital for dispatchers and personnel before properties are entered, reducing the chance for serious injury, minimizing property damage and increasing the efficiency and effectiveness in the response. This information should enhance the City's next ISO survey and rating, helping to minimize increase in fire insurance premiums of residential and commercial policyholders in the City.
City Engineer Jason LaMonaco managed significant work activity in the City's Engineering Department during 2008. Design and bid specification work for the Spaulding Fibre site under the Restore NY program and for the Main pump Station were completed. Demolition and construction activity for both projects moved forward. Main Street beautification, Virginia Street reconstruction, Benton Street construction and sidewalk replacement work were successfully managed and completed. Phase II asbestos and lead based paint assessment and survey work for the former Water Pumping and Treatment plants were completed. Planning work on rezoning the central business district, waterfront and Spaulding Fibre site in conjunction with Wendel Duchscherer were all initiated and are ongoing. Boundary survey and wetland delineation work for Veterans Park was completed. There are many more projects that could be listed but for time limitations.
The Department of Public Works and Superintendent Neal Myers routinely completed vital street plowing and cleaning, solid waste collection and sewer maintenance services. Eight City streets totaling 1.3 miles were resurfaced in 2008. Since 1995, over 33.8 miles of streets have been resurfaced.
The Department of Recreation and Director of Recreation Linda Foels managed a 22.5% increase in attendance in the City's community playground program, an increase of 50% in our tennis program and successfully offered three new youth programs; "Introduction to Art", the return of "Night Gyms" and a Holiday Fun Night. Repairs and capital improvements were made to the roof on Shelter # 2 at Vets Park; lavatory improvements in Niawanda and Eastern Parks; improvements at Kohler Pool and 150 trees and stumps were removed and 121 new trees planted.
Building Inspector Kevin Rank managed the issuance of 589 building permits with an estimated construction value of $6M, and 207 plumbing permits and 599 contractor licenses were processed. 2008 revenue generated by this office totaled $111,355. 713 complaints were investigated and managed.
City Assessor Pat Bacon and her staff successfully managed the completion of the 2008 City Tax Roll revaluation project. Approximately 900 properties were reviewed and the annual assessment grievance date process was efficiently managed. The Assessor's Office also successfully administered applications for Senior, Enhanced STAR, Basic STAR, Disability, Veterans, and Not-For–Profit, Business and the new Cold War Veterans exemptions.
City Clerk Jan Bodie and her staff processed paperwork for fees, licenses and permits that generated over $164,000 in revenue for the City. Daily work activity includes processing insurance claims, accident reports, collection of taxes and service charges and compiling information for the Star Program.
As stated earlier, the City's fundamental mission, as planned and executed through the development and management of the City's budget, is to protect the public, to provide quality public services at the most reasonable cost, and to provide leadership in making the City a good place to live and an positive environment to invest and do business. Although global, national and state affairs qualify the City's ability to independently achieving these goals. City efforts and policy can still strongly influence progress in moving closer to these same goals. These efforts must include operating an efficient and honest City Government, by minimizing the need to raise City taxes by maximizing outside revenue sources and by expanding the City's tax base with sound economic development activity and effort. Growing the tax base requires working closely with other public sector officials and agencies, with the business community and by identifying, securing and managing outside funding sources to make projects happen. These efforts rarely occur over one or two fiscal or calendar years, but over several years depending on the complexity of the project, market conditions and many other factors. Therefore, the city's economic development efforts need to be addressed looking back to 2008 and looking forward to 2009 and beyond.
Without question, the most significant project the City worked on in 2008 was preparing the 47-acre former Spaulding Fibre site for redevelopment and reinvestment. A great deal of progress has already been made, in large part because of the process being used. A close, effective working relationship has been established and followed, as evidenced in the Spaulding Fibre Working Group that meets at least bi-weekly. I must recognize those individuals and agencies that have worked so hard on this project, on behalf of the City. Mr. Ken Swanekamp, Director of Business Assistance for Erie County, Ms. Jo Nasoff from the ECIDA, Greg Sutton from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, 4th Ward Councilmember Rick Davis, Jean Harmon representing County Legislator Michele Ianello, Terry Wegler representing Assemblyman Robin Schimminger, Paul Kranz from Erie County government, and of course City Engineer Jason LoManaco have all worked hard on this project. Council president Zeisz and all members of the entire City of Tonawanda Common Council, U. S. Senators Clinton and Schumer, Congresswoman Louise Slaughter, State Senators Rath and Thompson, consultants Wendel Duchscherer and Bernie Rotella all helped secure over $21.6M to finance environmental and demolition activity work. In 2008, demolition design specifications were prepared, bid and awarded for Area #1, continuing previous demolition activity. Environmental assessment work was completed and submitted for review. In 2009 work under the Environmental Restoration Program will include site investigation, remedial alternative and selection will be undertaken. Efforts to assess and examine a new zoning ordinance for the site began. The City investigated and met with representatives of the EDIDA to potentially include this site as a Foreign Free Trade Zone. Much of this work will continue into 2009. Some activity, like demolition work, will be completed in 2009. A good amount of time discussing this project is made because it is so significant for the future of our City, because it has so much potential to build our tax base, create jobs, support existing businesses in the City and because it is a rare for any community our size to have such a large parcel available for redevelopment. It's discussed at length for another equally important reason. It is a model to show how you get things done, a model to be used and reused on future projects in Tonawanda. A model to duplicate, exactly, for future projects. A can-do attitude that shows the community, if we work together, we can make significant projects happen, so that expectations change to: we did this before and we can do it again.
In 2008, Gerspach Properties, LLC/R & P Pools, Inc., doing business as the more commonly known name of Leisure Living, purchased 574 and 532 Main Street. In addition to the purchase price for the warehouse space at 574, the company is investing in excess of $1M to complete renovation work consisting of roofing, sprinkler system, electrical signage and general renovations. Approximately $300,000 is being spent on non-manufacturing equipment. The vacant office space building located at 532 Main Street was also purchased, with investment of additional $1M in build out improvements and $300,000 in furniture, fixtures and equipment being planned. Over 65 employees are employed and an additional 40 full time temporary employees in the summer months. These developments wouldn't have occurred if the City, the Erie County Industrial Development Agency and Town of Tonawanda Empire Zone had not actively worked together to include these properties in the Empire Zone and to qualify for incentives under the IDA.
Awnings Plus and Five West Enterprises relocated to the former Skill Buick property at 363 Delaware Street in 2008. Between these two companies, over 100 employees are now working in a property located in the City. The outstanding visibility and traffic counts offered by this City location has translated into additional business for owner Dan Gagliardo, and the fact a successful business is occupying this site stabilizes the City's tax base at this individual location and this neighborhood. The City has worked with these businesses on the successful relocation and has participated in discussions that could lead to additional investment at this location.
The City was successful in developing and securing over $594,000 in funding from the Erie County Community Development Block Grant Program in 2008. Funded projects included: $96,706 for housing programs; $67,500 for Benton Street improvements and $90,000 for Virginia Street reconstruction and sewer line capital improvements; $135,000 for Main Street beautification work, $90,000 for Main Street Gateway and $115,000 for Main Street paving work.
Significant work in 2009 on a number of other economic development and capital improvement projects will build on efforts started in 2008, or at an earlier date. These include: development of Request For Proposals language that frame, and provide acceptable City development guidelines and requirements, for residential development of Vets Park, including planning for associated capital improvements needed for the project.
Work will continue with Public Power Coalition (PPC) communities to secure financial incentives and assistance from the New York Power Authority relative to NYPA's re-licensing application. Efforts to redevelop the former water pumping and treatment plant properties will move forward with the development of demolition and environmental remediation specifications to secure firm contractor prices. Effects to secure financing to execute these bids will also continue.
2009 economic development activity should include re-energizing the City's Tonawanda Community Development Corporation (TCDC), the City's local development Corporation to assist in City development activity. In this regard I want to thank Council President Zeisz and former Mayor Alice Roth for agreeing to serve on the TCDC board. Their expertise and commitment to the City will be a great asset for the work activity of the Corporation in the years to come.
Additional planning and economic development project activity in 2009 will include work to examine and update central business district and waterfront zoning ordinances; finalizing the Young Street/Gateway planning grant and document; executing and implementing components of the shared service agreement with the School District and beginning sewer infiltration and inflow study work, to mention a few.
In closing, like any community in New York State the City of Tonawanda faces serious challenges. The same is true for most cities in the United States. However, the state of the City of Tonawanda is relative sound and positioned to make significant strides in 2009 and beyond. We must concentrate our efforts on managing the people's business in areas that we can most directly influence. Managing City tax dollars, controlling City tax rates, growing the City's tax base and successfully implanting economic development projects are at the top of that list. The key is for all of us to work together on behalf of the people of Tonawanda.
Thank you for permitting me this opportunity. I look forward to working with my colleagues in City government, the public and the business community in the months and years to come.
A letter from Jean Harmon dated January 15, 2009, requesting a banner be hung across Main Street announcing the 2009 T-NT Business Expo promoting local businesses.
A letter from New York State Canal Corporation, dated January 16, 2009, announcing the 4th Annual Canal Clean Sweep coming April 18th and 19th, asking us to organize a cleanup activity in our community and to solicit volunteers.
A letter from Harter Secrest & Emery LLP dated January 20, 2009, regarding Regional Air Contamination Issues – Benzene Discussion.
A letter from the NYSDEC dated January 22, 2009, regarding the Spaulding Fibre project.
A letter to Woodbridge Contracting Group, from Mayor Pilozzi and Council President Zeisz, dated January 29, 2009, regarding the Redevelopment of the Water Plant Site at 111 North Shore Drive.
A letter to the Hon. Charles Schumer, the Hon. Kirsten Gillibrand, the Hon. Antoine Thompson, the Hon. Michael Ranzenhofer and the Hon. Robin Schimminger, dated January 29, 2009, regarding Member Items Requests for 2009.
A letter from National Grid dated January 27, 2009, providing the Mayor with further information about the overpayments of local Gross Receipts Tax that they made to the City of Tonawanda over the course of the last three years.
Ordered filed
The following monthly reports were received by the City Clerk:
January minutes of the Civil Service Commission
January minutes of the Community Development Agency
January minutes of the Traffic and Safety Advisory Board
Revenue and Expenditure Report for the General Fund and the Sewer
Fund for the City of Tonawanda as of December 31, 2008
Referred to the Committee of the Whole
Ordered filed
A letter from City Attorney Ronald C. Trabucco, to Mayor Pilozzi and the Common Council, dated January 21, 2009, regarding a Title Search for City Hall Property at 200 Niagara Street.
Referred to the Committee of the Whole
A Fact Sheet from the NYSDEC announcing a Public Hearing to be held on Thursday, February 26, 2009, at 7:00 P.M. at Tonawanda City Hall, regarding the Spaulding Composites Site.
Referred to the Committee of the Whole
Ordered filed
There were no comments by the public on the resolutions.
16. By the Council seconded by the Council
Resolved, that the Mayor be authorized and directed to sign an agreement with Drescher & Malecki, LLP to perform the annual audit of City finances for the fiscal year ended 12/31/08 for a fee not to exceed $18,800.00.
Fiscal Impact: $14,550 General Fund
4,250 City of Tonawanda PHA Account
Ayes: Perkins, Waterhouse, Kossow, Davis, Zeisz
Nays: None
Resolution declared adopted
17. By the Council seconded by the Council
Resolved, at the recommendation of the City Engineer, Jason J. LaMonaco, P.E., that award of the sewer system evaluation survey be made to Stearns & Wheler, LLC, at a cost not to exceed $308,600.00
Ayes: Perkins, Waterhouse, Kossow, Davis, Zeisz
Nays: None
Resolution declared adopted
18. By the Council seconded by the Council
Whereas, Article 11 of the Real Property Tax Law provides that the collection of delinquent real estate taxes may be enforced by a proceeding In Rem against the real property involved; and
Whereas, many real estate tax delinquencies were brought to the attention of the Common Council by City Treasurer, Joseph M. Hogenkamp and by City Attorney Ronald C. Trabucco, prior to their being included in tax liens dated April 1, 2005; and
Whereas, the Common Council passed a Resolution on September 18, 2007 authorizing and directing the City Treasurer and the City Attorney to commence In Rem proceedings against the properties which were delinquent in the payment of real estate taxes up and through April 1, 2005; and
Whereas, such proceedings were, in fact, commenced and were entitled In Rem #10; and
Whereas, the judgment of foreclosure was filed in the Erie County Clerk's Office on November 19, 2008 regarding various parcels of property; and
Whereas, said judgment of foreclosure provided for the advertisement of said properties for sale to the highest bidder at public auction; and
Whereas, the City Treasurer and City Attorney determined said auction would be held on Thursday, January 22, 2009 and appropriate public notice was given as required by law and said auction was held as stated and the following bids were received on the following parcels:
Property Purchaser Purchase Price
102 Broad Street
Tonawanda, New York Reid Bracken $51,000.00
95 William Street
Tonawanda, New York Dorothy Watson $17,500.00
22 Broughton Court
Tonawanda, New York Joseph Walter $14,000.00
64 Elm Street
Tonawanda, New York Joseph Durick $ 1,200.00
44 Maple Street
Tonawanda, New York Brenda Randall $ 1,100.00
65 Elm Street
Tonawanda, New York Marlanna White $17,000.00
61 Elm Street
Tonawanda, New York Marlanna White $20,000.00
779 Fletcher Street
Tonawanda, New York Michael Rogers $55,000.00
Whereas, the Common Council reserved the right to reject any and all bids;
Whereas, the terms of sale provide that said auction would not be final until the adoption of a resolution of the Common Council approving the same; and
Whereas, the terms of sale require that the City provide a Bargain and Sale Deed and other usual closing documents for the closing of the sale and further that the City shall not provide a current survey nor a current search and further that the ascertainment of the marketability of the subject property for the sale is the responsibility of the purchaser; and
Whereas, the terms of sale further provide that any and all costs associated with the sale and the subsequent transfer to the purchaser shall be borne exclusively by the purchaser; now, therefore be it
Resolved, that the bids by
Reid Bracken in the amount of $51,000.00 regarding 102 Broad Street
Dorothy Watson in the amount of $17,500.00 regarding 95 William Street
Joseph Walter in the amount of $14,000.00 regarding 22 Broughton Court
Joseph Durick in the amount of $1,200.00 regarding 64 Elm Street
Brenda Randall in the amount of $1,100.00 regarding 44 Maple Street
Marlanna White in the amount of $17,000.00 regarding 65 Elm Street
Marlanna White in the amount of $20,000.00 regarding 61 Elm Street
Michael Rogers in the amount of $55,000.00 regarding 779 Fletcher Street
are hereby accepted and the sales are confirmed and the City Attorney, Ronald C. Trabucco, is hereby authorized and directed to prepare the necessary Deeds and accompanying documents and the Treasurer, Joseph M. Hogenkamp and/or the Mayor, Ronald J. Pilozzi are hereby authorized and directed to execute said documents to transfer the said properties to the successful bidders and the City Treasurer is also hereby authorized and directed to forward any surplus monies to the proper representatives of the County of Erie.
Ayes: Perkins, Waterhouse, Kossow, Davis, Zeisz
Nays: None
Resolution declared adopted
19. By the Council seconded by the Council
Resolved, that the certificate of insurance and bond be filed and a license be issued to David Kubiniec of Kubiniec Plumbing to do business in the City of Tonawanda.
Ayes: Perkins, Waterhouse, Kossow, Davis, Zeisz
Nays: None
Resolution declared adopted
20. By the Council seconded by the Council
Resolved, at the recommendation of the City Engineer, Jason J. LaMonaco, P.E., that award of the contract for design of Water Treatment Plant and Wastewater Treatment Plant Site Abatement, Environmental Remediation, and Demolition be made to LiRo Engineers, Inc., at a cost not to exceed $10,350.00.
Funding/Fiscal Impact: $10,350.00 from 2009 General Fund
Ayes: Perkins, Waterhouse, Kossow, Davis, Zeisz
Nays: None
Resolution declared adopted
21. By Council President Zeisz seconded by Councilmember Waterhouse
Resolved, that in recognition and compliance with the "New York State Open Meetings Law", this Common Council will meet in Executive Session in the Common Council Chambers for the purpose of pending exempt City business, and further be it
Resolved, that upon conclusion of the above stated business matters, the meeting shall again be open to the general public. The reason for the Executive Session is to discuss personnel of a particular person.
Ayes: Perkins, Waterhouse, Kossow, Davis, Zeisz
Nays: None
Resolution declared adopted
Robert Derner, 286 Niagara Shore Drive – Did I hear correctly that you're thinking now is of heading toward demolishing the water plant?
Council President Zeisz – Yes.
Robert Derner – The other thing is, my favorite subject, revaluation. A while back, you hired this firm to revalue the City of Tonawanda for the next five years and I want to know if what I heard is correct, that the State requires a City to reval once every six years, am I correct in that or not?
Council President Zeisz – That they require it once every six years?
Robert Derner – Yes.
Council President Zeisz – That's not my understanding, unless you know something I don't know.
Robert Derner – Well, I don't know, that's what I heard and I was wondering if you could find out and let me know about that because if that's true, what would be the point of revaluing all the property, once a year for five years?
Council President Zeisz - Well, now I don't have the Assessor here to answer the questions, and maybe our City Treasurer knows the answer to this. I don't think the intent is to do every house, every year. I think it was suppose to be a situation where, over a course of a three year period, we'd get to every house, and then again over the next three years. That's my understanding. So in a six-year period, every house would get looked at twice. Now, granted there's going to be situations where a house is sold that, of course, might move them up quicker to be looked at. I don't know exactly the formula for how that's going to work, but it is not going to be every house, every year.
Councilmember Perkins – I have nothing else, thank you.
Councilmember Waterhouse – Before I came to the chambers this evening, I was working on my snow blower and I kind of realized how tired I am of the snow already. But as we all know, we are going to get more snow, so just as a friendly reminder, if we could please try and keep our sidewalks as clear as possible. I've had a couple of calls from some people and I noticed driving around the City, I've seen way too many people walking in the streets, whether the kids going to schools or the seniors down there, and I noticed some of our businesses that when they're plowing, they seem to be blocking the sidewalks too. So, just a reminder for the people please, if you have snow blowers and everything, you have elderly people next to you, please do the whole walkway for them. It will make it a lot safer for everyone. The other thing I had, I received a couple calls on how nice Main Street looked with the lights on and the fact that they're keeping the lights on through the park. So Mr. Mayor, I'd just like to say a lot of residents appreciate that. Thank you very much.
Councilmember Kossow – I have nothing further this evening, thank you.
Councilmember Davis – I'd just like to thank the Police Department for an issue that happened on my street this past Sunday, for their prompt response and resolving the situation. Thank you Mr. President.
Mayor Pilozzi – First of all, I'd like to thank Joe Hogenkamp and Ron Trabucco for the work they did on the In Rem stuff. That brought a pretty good hunk of change back to the City, it's money that wasn't being paid, delinquent taxes if you will, and they did a good job with that. I want to thank them for that. And just so everybody knows, if you know anybody that might want to take advantage of the HEAP program. HEAP program is Home Energy Assistance, basically to help with heating bills or electric bills. On Thursday of this week and the 11th, Wednesday of the next week, there's going to be some folks right here at the United Way of the Tonawandas, which is located at 34 Seymour Street. Those folks are coming from the County. I believe that they're coming from the Department of Senior Services and Social Services, so maybe Michele (Iannello) had something to do with that. I'm sure she did, and that's a good opportunity for people to not have to travel a long distance to get that kind of help. In addition, an organization called, "Food For All" is going to be again, at the United Way of the Tonawandas at 34 Seymour Street. They started today between 3:00 P.M. and 6:00 P.M., but on Monday, February 9th and also on Wednesday, February 18th, they'll be there. There is some proof of income and things like that that are required. Anybody wants any information on that, if you want to go to channel 1670, you'll hear my voice again, that's on the THS system and they'll give all that information. If you'd like to call the office, our secretary Judy Simon will help out because she has this information too. But, in these hard economic times, it's good when these programs are available, to take advantage of them, especially whether it's you or maybe a relative, friend, neighbor, just want to let everybody know, and thank you for putting up with me so long today.
Council President Zeisz – Thank you for everyone for coming tonight, have a great night, drive home safely and God bless you.
22. By Councilmember Kossow seconded by Councilmember Perkins
Resolved, that this Common Council adjourn until February 17, 2009.
Ayes: Perkins, Waterhouse, Kossow, Davis, Zeisz
Nays: None
Resolution declared adopted
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Mock Convention is, at its core, a research project. Since the inaugural convention in 1908, Washington and Lee students have been correct in their prediction 19 times out of 25. They've been correct about the Republican Party since 1948.Read More »
Mock Convention's research project is driven by 56 state and territory delegations comprising enthusiastic students who are charged with conducting extensive research to predict the eventual nomination of a candidate.
Mock Convention is a student organization run entirely by Washington and Lee University undergraduates. While over 90% of students join one of the 56 state and territory delegations, a few select students take on major leadership roles spanning more than two years of preparation. See the full list of student leaders, whose hard work and dedication culminate in this weekend long extravaganza.
Get an in-depth perspective on the student experience from some of the leadership team:
Meet the whole team and listen to how Mock Con has shaped their academic and extracurricular life at W&L.
Mudd Center Debate: "The Ethics of Citzenship"
Featuring William Galston of the Brookings Institution and Peter Wehner of the Public Policy Center
Doors Open 4:15 PM
Delegates Parade
Downtown Lexington
Convention Session One
Featuring Strategist Kristen Soltis Anderson and Political Advocate Grover Norquist
Doors Open 12:30 PM
Convention Session Two
Featuring Congressman Bob Goodlatte, Editor Rich Lowry, Political Commentator Ann Coulter and Former Vice President Dick Cheney
Doors Open 6:00 PM
Convention Session Three
Featuring Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, Economist Steve Moore and Former RNC Chairman Ed Gillespie
Doors Open 9:00 PM
Convention Session Four
Featuring Alumnus and Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin
Doors Open 2:00 PM
Watch the debate and assemblies live through the official Washington and Lee Livestream channel. No need to register.
William Galston and Peter WehnerFRI1:30 PM
Kristen Soltis Anderson and Grover NorquistFRI7 PM
Bob Goodlatte, Rich Lowry, Ann Coulter and Dick CheneySAT10 AM
Newt Gingrich, Steve Moore and Ed GillespieSAT3 PM
Matt Bevin '89
Throughout the weekend our social media team will be hosting pop-up videos on Periscope. Watch on Twitter or through the Periscope app for impromptu interviews, behind the scenes footage and whatever else catches our fancy.
Simply follow @wluLex on either platform and get a heads-up notice when we go live!
Find exclusive content and behind the scenes action on the following channels:

subset: commoncrawl


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Romantic Suffolk Cottage in Orford
There are many wonderful places to visit in our green and pleasant land and an escape to this romantic Suffolk cottage in Orford is right up there.
This Autumn we bundled into the car and drove to the Suffolk coast and to the charming little fishing town of Orford, only two hours from London. We've been told it attracts the type of fashionable foodie folk from the city and beyond, who flock here wearing leather boots and fisherman beanies and know that oyster 'liquor' tastes better in the cold of Winter. That's probably true and Butley Orford Oysterage on market square is the perfect restaurant to find out. No fuss, just delicious sea-to-fork food.
We all appreciate a fine British beer and the town's good pubs including the Jolly Sailor pours the local Adnams and serves up a great plate of fish 'n' chips.
Just across Market Square is the prize of Orford – the wonderful Pump Street Bakery. When you offer up warm artisan bread and pastries this good, it's unsurprising that queues of customers often wrap around the building. After a long, frisky walk along the coast and marshes, Pump Street is just the place to grab a hot coffee and a cheeky focaccia to take home for lunch. If you're feeling a little naughty (and a bit pregnant like me) try and grab a couple of fluffy friand cakes (tasty bite-size almond cakes, filled with a hidden seasonal fruit, all warm and squidgy) and feed each other on the stroll back.
With all the gems of Orford on your doorstep, it's no wonder why we enjoyed our stay at Well Cottage so much. Apart from the great location, this small but beautifully formed cottage has everything you desire from a romantic escape. Tucked away behind the main square, this 18th century property has all the charming features of a cosy retreat including wooden beams, iron bed frames, open fires and lovely vintage furnishings. Yet this place comes to life through the owner's eye for contemporary and colourful design. The collection of paintings and family art adorn the cottage making it feel like a real home from home. The warm stone floor makes it easy to feel relaxed with a small dog and toddler spilling about the place. You also don't need to worry about bringing your own cot, highchair and doggy bowl. All are provided, along with all the necessities to make a good cup of tea with biscuits or a large glass of wine on arrival. The modern kitchen/dining extension is a stunning space to sprawl out the weekend newspapers over breakfast, basked in sunlight with glass doors leading out into your own private and leafy courtyard. Even the loo has a spectacular view of the distant sunset coast.
If the weather had been bad, we would have happily stayed in doors all week cuddled up on the sofa watching DVDs or playing marble solitaire. (That's after we'd managed to climb down from the bed and all its heavenliness).
Well Cottage is just lovely and a perfect choice for a romantic break all season round, even if you can't leave the little ones behind.
We only wish we had booked early enough to secure a memorable stay over Christmas and New Year.
Next time.
Write a comment
Really beautiful place, hoping one day I can go with those who love me.


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Baby gourmet potatoes are cooked until tender then smashed with rosemary, garlic, french dijon and decadent duck fat. Ready to bake until golden and crispy GF/DF
Divine Dijon, rosemary and garlic duck fat smashed potatoes
For Regular Meal Packages: Delivery days are Wednesday and Friday via courier. Orders must be placed at least 72 hours prior to requested delivery date.
DIVINE dark chocolate celebration cake: I do prefer not to courier this cake as it needs care during transportation. Pick up or delivery options in Invercargill only. 72 hours notice is required for creation.
For Meal Packages: please ensure you defrost the meals before reheating, always preheat the oven and follow the cooking times stated. If you are wanting a meal ready to heat the day of delivery, please advise as we will ensure it is ready to heat
For Gift Boxes: please store in cool dark place.
DIVINE dark chocolate celebration cake: This cake must be kept in a cool dark spot until presented (this is due to the chocolate sweating and the praline dissolving. It then can be kept in the fridge. If you are lucky enough to have cake left over it does freeze well for up to 3 months


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Smithsonian American Art Museum Senior Curator Virginia Mecklenburg will present a talk about original Norman Rockwell art owned by filmmakers George Lucas and Steve Spielberg, during an evening lecture to be held at Norman Rockwell Museum on Thursday, August 26, starting at 5:30 p.m. Dr. Mecklenburg has organized "Telling Stories: Norman Rockwell from the Collections of George Lucas and Steven Spielberg," the first major exhibition to explore in-depth the connections between Rockwell's iconic images of American life and the vision of the next generation of visual storytellers. Two of America's best-known modern filmmakers, both Lucas and Spielberg recognized a kindred spirit in Norman Rockwell and formed significant collections of his work. Learn about the similarities between these acclaimed artists' work–from themes of national and home town pride, unlikely heroes, children growing up, and life's small moments. The lecture is free with regular Museum admission, and is being presented as part of the American Storytellers series, co-sponsored by The "Times Union." To learn more about the exhibition "Telling Stories," visit the Smithsonian's Web site:
American Storytellers
American Storytellers, a lecture and performance series, will be held at Norman Rockwell Museum on Thursday evenings this summer, starting at 5:30 p.m. Enjoy inspired conversations and performances celebrating the art of visual storytelling and the contributions of noted American illustrators–from Norman Rockwell to William Steig–who inspire us to see the world in new and exciting ways. The American Storytellers series is sponsored by "The Albany Times Union," and all events are free with regular Museum admission.
"Rockwell and the Movies"
On view through October 31, 2010
Though Norman Rockwell is often identified with hometown life in New England, he was a frequent visitor to California, and was called upon by Hollywood to create imagery for posters advertising entertaining feature films of his day.
"Rockwell and the Movies" explores Rockwell's art for the motion picture industry, and features original paintings, vintage posters, lobby cards, and original portraits of movie stars drawn from the Museum's Art and Archival Collections and private collections of Rockwell's art. "The Magnificent Ambersons" (1941), "The Song of Bernadette" (1943), "Along Came Jones"
(1945), "The Razor's Edge" (1946), "Cinderfella" (1960) and the 1966 remake of the classic, "Stagecoach," are among the films the artist branded with his signature style of realism and narration.


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The Bearbones 200 is looming on my event horizon in less than two months. The simplest way to describe the event is "hard". Set off from a Welsh location with your bike, ride 200 kilometres of serious hills and try to get back within 24 hours. I've never partaken of anything so silly before and therefore need to make sure that I'm mentally and physically ready for the challenge. The best way to do this is to ride 200km of hilly mountain biking in less than 24 hours.
My original plan was to have a go at the Lakeland 200 route set by Alan Goldsmith, however the Lake District weather forecast for my proposed weekend had "shite" written all over it. So I turned my attention further south and found something called the Wessex Ridgeway. The route runs from Tollard Royal to Axminster and is 63.5 miles long. Tollard Royal is 70 miles from my house. I formed a new plan, Friday night train to Axminister, bivy somewhere out of town and then ride all the way home.
Packing was lean, just about everything was left behind apart from a sleeping bag, bivy bag and air mat. I managed to stuff all of this into a seat pack and there some random bits of food from the kitchen cupboard into my frame bag. The journey to Axminister by train was relatively uneventful baring the final leg. South West Train kindly laid on entertainment for this dreary hour in the form of a completely pissed up skateboarder from the Isle of Wight. He spent 45 minutes regaling his life story to a woman sat next to him,. Fortunately she was oblivious to his pissed-upness as she regaled hers to him simultaneously. I pretended to read a book whilst silently chuckling at their conversation that rollercoasterd from Dr Who charity work to the fact that the lady in a dress a few seats up was judging us all. The woman left at Yeovil and I was then compelled to take up the baton. Fortunately I posses a set of Kryptonics so was able to keep the conversation focused upon the skate scene in the eightees.
I disembarked at Axminister around 9pm and found a chippy. A greasy faced Dave set off up Lyme Hill at 9.30pm hoping to camp in the woods at Wootton Hill. Two hours and fifteen miles later I finally found a semi-suitable spot somewhere near Pilsdon. The journey there was fraught with issues.
Firstly it was dark and signage was difficult to follow. The GPS trail I'd downloaded was piss poor and had clearly not been ridden before.
Secondly, Devon farmers clearly hate rights of way. The vast majority of them were overgrown, I had two massive diversions due to large fields of corn blocking my way and one huge swearing session at a path that was simply a bush.
Thirdly, I had company. Cows and sheep everywhere. I don't mind domesticated animals but they mind torchlit idiots interrupting their doze with a Hope Hub and mild screaming. Heifers are the worst as they HAVE to investigate and at times I felt like a bovine pied piper. Somewhere near midnight I found a cow-free field an snuggled into my bivy bag for a night properly under the stars.
I awoke at sunrise to a glorious vista of dewy grass and an amazing daybreak, look at the wonder in my eyes.
Flapjacks for breakfast and then a proper daylight tangle with the Wessex Ridgeway beckoned.
In my mind's eye I had pictured this as a high level traverse over the beautiful scenery of Devon and Dorset. Reality had other ideas.
I dragged my bike through overgrown bridleways and up stupidly steep unrideable grassy hills. An occasional nice section of riding would sooth the pain before another mountain biking disgrace took its place.
All ideas of planned average speed (9mph) went out of the window as I fought my way along the trail. The selfie below describes the mood well, a sort of sweaty pent up anger.
Signage continued to be terrible as exhibited by the bridleway sign below.
I prostrated myself below this cross begging it all to end, then remembered I'm an agnostic so any deity listening would smugly tell me to fuck right off. It finally sort of ended at Tollard Royal, but the pain didn't with a huge great byway climb.
Things improved as I made my way home. The riding become a lot less extreme as I'd taken care to pick my way back through Wiltshire on its fabulous network of byways. The main problem was that I was bollocksed and had to measure my effort to manage the numerous inclines.
The other problem was foliage. Every track was lined with overhanging brambles or nettles. I constantly snagged my hands/arms/legs/nuts/ears on these and was pushed away from the best lines in a vane attempt at avoidance. North of Salisbury a bramble refused to let go and ripped most of the skin from my little finger. The extent of the damage became clear as I paid for a coke and crisps at the next pub stop and bled all over the landlord and his bar.
I vaguely knew the route home from Shrewton, fifty more miles to go and three hours of light remaining. Head down, camera in the back pack I ground my way on. A tail wind flattered my wreaked legs and I was 20 miles from home when darkness engulfed me. The last section included a bridleway known locally as "Mud Lane", I know this well and also know that it is the brambliest/nettliest few miles that Wiltshire has to offer. My hand convinced me to divert around and take the road, which I did. Ending my trip with ten miles of disused railway between Swindon and Marlborough.
I fell through the door at 10pm and drank three beers. Fifteen hours, 122 miles and a lot of ascent. Physically I was ok, I'd not quite done the 200km but looking at my stats I had *if* one counts the period between 9.30pm the night before and 24 hours later. I'm well aware that the Barebones 200 is a lot harder, but I'm hoping the cornfield thrutches, bramble grabs and grassy 20% inclines will act as reasonable preparation.
As for the Wessex Ridgeway, it's an absolutely crap mountain bike ride that every rider should do. The best analogy I can come up with is sleeping with Janet Street-porter or Michael Gove. At the end of it, everyone will ask you "why" and you'll have no rational explanation. But some dark recess of your being will make you glad that you did, just so that you'll never have to do it again.


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The hardest part about owning a dog is knowing when and how to care for his health. Our dogs can't tell us when their feeling feverish or if their heart is racing. Oftentimes owners don't even realize their dog is ill until it's too late for treatment. Learning how to check a dog's vital signs is important information to know before an emergency happens.
The time to learn is not when your dog seems to be having trouble breathing. Every owner should know how to check a dog's vital signs and practice it often. I keep a small notebook in our pet first aid kit to record my dog's vital signs at least once per month. I used to do it weekly when I was first learning.
The vital signs that you need to know how to check are:
- Heart rate
- Breathing rate
- Temperature
If you keep a log of your pet's vital signs, you'll soon realize what his average heart rate, breathing rate and temperature are. Just like us, our dogs are all different and their vital signs will not always be the same.
MORE ADVICE: How-to Videos for Dog Owners
How To Check A Dog's Vital Signs
How to check your dog's heart rate
The average heart beat for a dog is between 60-140 beats per minute. There is a large variance because their are so many sizes of dogs. For small breeds, 100-140 is usually typically. For large breeds, the rate usually averages about 60-100.
Check with your veterinarian, but most will not begin to worry until your dog's heart rate drops below 60 or jumps above 140.
You should be able to feel your dog's heart beating in his chest without using a stethoscope. Lift your dog's left front paw. See where the 'armpit' is located? Place your hand in that area and move it around slightly until you feel his heart beating.
Make sure you're learning how to check your dog's vital signs when he is relaxed. If you try to check these things right after a run or hike, it's going to skew the results. All of his vital signs will be elevated after exercise.
In order to figure out his heart rate, you'll need a clock or watch with a seconds hand or a stopwatch. Most smartphones have timer apps that you can download for free. Simply count the number of times your dog's heart beats in a 15 second period of time.
Let's say his heart beat 20 times in 15 seconds. Now, multiply that heart rate by 4 to find the number of times that your pooch's heart beats in a minute. For our example, you would multiple 20 by 4, which is 80. Your dog's heart rate would be 80 beats per minute, which is well inside the "normal" range.
For more detailed information about checking your dog's heart rate and a detailed video guide on the topic, you can check out my article on how to find a dog's heart rate at home.
How to check your dog's breathing rate
Don't put your stopwatch away. You're going to need it for the next step when learning how to check a dog's vital signs.
This one is pretty similar to calculating your pet's heart rate. As I mentioned, you'll want to do this when your dog is resting. Try to get him to lie on his side, like I did with Saddie in my video guide at the top of this page.
You should be able to see his chest expand every time he takes a breath in. You're going to need to count the number of breaths he takes in a 15 second period of time. Then you'll do the same math we did above to find his breathing rate in a minute.
Normally, dog's usually take about 12-24 breaths per minute. Let's say that you counted 5 breaths in the 15 seconds that you were watching your dog breathe. You'll need to multiply 5 by 4 to find your dog's breathing rate per minute. 4 multiplied by 5 is 20, which is right in the middle of the range for a "normal" breathing rate.
RELATED: 25 Most Serious Dog Health Symptoms That Cannot Be Ignored
How to check your dog's temperature
If the picture above makes you cringe, you're not going to like the final step of learning how to check a dog's vital signs. First, you need to know that a dog's temperature runs slightly hotter than a humans. Don't be expecting a 98.6° temperature from your dog.
The average dog's temperature should be between 100.5° and 102.5°.
The ONLY accurate way to get your dog's temperature is by using a rectal thermometer. As I explain in my video, you don't need to purchase a special thermometer for dogs. Any simple digital thermometer will work – just be sure to label it 'DOG' like I did or someone in your home may make the mistake of using it on a person. YUCK!
Coat the end of the thermometer with petroleum jelly and insert about 1 inch into your dog's rectum. Turn the thermometer on and wait for it to take an accurate reading. Most thermometers will beep when they're finished.
Once you've removed the thermometer, it's important that you thoroughly clean it. Wipe off the petroleum jelly and wash the thermometer with hot water and soap.
For more detailed information about checking your dog's temperature and a video guide that shows exactly how it's done, you can check out my article on how to take a dog's temperature with a thermometer.


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Hartford HealthCare has warned Anthem members that hospitals, ancillary providers and doctors will be considered higher cost out-of-network services if negotiations fail to produce a new agreement to replace the three-year contract that expires Saturday.
When classified as out-of-network, hospitals and other health care facilities and providers require higher out-of-pocket costs for services. Affected hospitals include Hartford Hospital, the Hospital of Central Connecticut in New Britain and Southington, MidState Medical Center in Meriden, Backus Hospital in Norwich, Windham Hospital in Willimantic and the Institute of Living, a Hartford facility that treats mental illness and other health conditions.
Anthem spokeswoman Sarah Yeager said negotiators in the past have "worked up to midnight to get a deal done."
Shawn Mawhiney, a spokesman for Hartford HealthCare, said Thursday it had made clear it's available "to meet at any time" and was waiting to hear from Anthem on its last counter offer.
Anthem continues to negotiate, Yeager said, but is "just not willing to agree upon the increases they are requesting."
Hartford HealthCare urged members to call Anthem and urge "continued access" to Hartford HealthCare providers and services.
Anthem has said that in the unlikely event an agreement is not reached, its priority will be to "ensure that current services being provided to our members by/at these facilities and providers are not interrupted and that needs for future services may be transitioned to other comparable facilities and providers."


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Hide Forgot
Description of problem:
Preview and Save don't work when "Upgrade an existing installation" is selected (under "Installation
Method". Upgrade is the default setting, so the default behavior is to not save files or display a preview.
Version-Release number of selected component (if applicable):
How reproducible:
Steps to Reproduce:
1. Launch system-config-kickstart
2. Select preview or save from the file menu
Actual results:
Nothing happens - no dialog, no feedback, no error messages in the shell used to launch system-
Expected results:
The preview or save dialog is displayed.
Additional info:
If you change installation method to "Perform new installation", Preview and Save work as expected.
Switching back to "Upgrade..." breaks preview/save again.
This will be fixed in the next build of system-config-kickstart. Thanks for the


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What do we do differently to others?
- Personal consultation by a superbly trained and experienced team on site (sales consultant, planner, site manager)
- Tailored, individual architecture – every house is a one-off
- Assistance with finding a building plot, land sale services
- Assistance with applying for utility supplies (gas, electricity, water, etc.)
- Complete building application with all the required calculations and documents (e.g. thermal insulation certificate)
- Enhanced construction documentation for the building and housing technology
- Compliance with deadlines due to optimised internal processes
- One central contact and extensive support from the contract for work and services to the end of the warranty period
- Transparent documentation of all the client's requests and processes during the construction phase with check list
- Client centre with extensive showroom
- Own construction company
- Modern presentation lounge with client cinema
- Certified trade companies and partners
- Extensive documentation for your house including operating instructions for your safety
Innovation & trends
Trend no. 1 – tailor-made living
- Personal consultation and design of your house project, every house is a one-off
- Presentation experience in our client cinemas
- Virtual tour of your house during the planning phase
- Solid masonry construction with numerous options for your house's design
- More than just a house – a home
Trend no. 2 – energy efficiency
- More than 20 years' experience in building practice
- Energy Award 2013
- Own Elbe-Haus® energy management
- With minor modifications to the building shell – hassle-free KfW 55
- Assistance with applying for subsidies (€100,000 and repayment bonus)
Elbe-Haus® GmbH
Am Heidenbaumberg 1
DE-19073 Stralendorf
(near Schwerin)
Phone: 0049 (0)3869 / 76 01 - 0
Email: info(at)elbe-haus.de
Elbe-Haus® West GmbH
Client Centre Cologne
Clevischer Ring 121 C
DE-51063 Köln
Phone: 0049 (0)221 / 669994-60
E-Mail: koeln(at)elbe-haus.de
Client Centre Berlin
Landsberger Straße 262
DE-12623 Berlin
Phone: 0049 (0)30 / 2091479-0
E-Mail: berlin(at)elbe-haus.de
Client Centre Hamburg
Sachsenstraße 5
DE-20097 Hamburg
Phone: 0049 (0)40 / 5480 7997
E-Mail: hamburg(at)elbe-haus.de
Elbe-Haus® stands for tailor-made solid masonry construction and personal consultation throughout the whole of Germany. Using our location finder you can find the right Elbe-Haus® partner in your area.
Quality + innovation
Greater security for your home. We guarantee that.
We focus on the quality of our services and your security. Our principles not only guarantee our company's service but also its claim. They are an integral part of our corporate philosophy.
Elbe-Haus® GmbH data privacy notice
This privacy policy informs the user about the nature, extent and purpose of the collection and use of personal details by Elbe-Haus GmbH, Am Heidenbaumberg 1, 19073 Stralendorf, email: info(at)elbe-haus.de, phone: 0049 (0)3869-76010, referred to in the following as "Provider", on this website, referred to in the following as "Website". Data protection officer: Anne Schumacher
The legal basis of data privacy are documented in the Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG) and the German Telemedia Act (TMG).
Energy efficiency and comfort go hand in hand
"We don't just build to save energy". What is of crucial importance is that the comfort, functionality and energy efficiency are in harmony. According to a current survey by the Velux Group, people spend 90% of their free time on average in their own home. Which is why joy, feel-good living, health, social interaction, light, air and comfort are all the more important.
M1 energy-plus house
A totally normal family home made out of white Ytong blocks that produces more energy than it consumes and is at the same time not much more expensive than a conventional new build. That's the vision of Dieter Stricker, authorised signatory at Elbe-Haus®. He set up a project group with several construction partners and built a prototype near Berlin: the M1 house. It has been lived in since December 2012, it should result in a house that is ready to go into production within two years.
Choose your bonus
We want to thank you
For every recommendation of a future Elbe-Haus® client you can select the reward you want from various high-quality recommendation packages.
You can find out here how this works and which rewards await you.
How did it all actually start?
Anyone who wants to build a solid, tailor-made architect-designed house today ends up at Elbe-Haus®. Future clients who we support as a reliable partner in turning their dream into their own home search and find us through trade fairs, property sites and not least through recommendations. A recommendation rate of more than 50 percent not only makes us proud but is above all for us a vote of confidence from our clients. But how did it all actually start – back then, 20 years ago?


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We are a full service travel agency that specializes in Music Cruises. Please contact us for ALL of your travel needs! Group, independent bookings, tours, family vacations, all-inclusive, ski trips, etc.
We're here to help you plan your trip. Whatever the reason you're traveling, we've got you covered. Even if you only need to book a hotel because you're heading to your family reunion in Petoskey, and you refuse to sleep in your Great Aunt Tallulah's guest room because it smells like mothballs.
If you're here for the music, four to seven days of music, adventure, relaxation, and amazing moments with your favorite artists await you on board your music cruise!
Call us at 419-49AGENT
Go ahead and poke around, find what you need and then contact us.


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Flights to Wuhan | Skyscanner Singapore
Find cheap flights to Wuhan Airport (WUH) | Skyscanner
Wuhan Airport (WUH) information
The Wuhan Tianhe International Airport is a relatively small two-terminal international airport that serves the city of Wuhan. Travel facilities are fairly limited here at this airport and it does get quite cold and hot in the winter and summer months respectively. Apart from a lack of dining and shopping options, the airport is also known to have limited seatings within the terminal. As such, passengers travelling in Economy class are often advised to consider paying for lounge access in order to utilise the WiFi or simply to get a comparatively quiet space to rest before the next flight out. If an overnight is required, the Wuhan Tianhe Airport Hotel is located approximately 5 minutes walk away.
Flights to Wuhan Airport (WUH)
Most of the flights that arrive into the Wuhan Tianhe International Airport are from other domestic cities within China - Guangzhou, Beijing and Shanghai just to name a few. There are a handful of flights each week that connect Wuhan directly to a few gateway cities nearby like Bangkok and Singapore. Most of the flights that arrive at this airport are operated by China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines and Xiamen Airlines.
Cheapest flights to Wuhan Airport (WUH)
With only limited flights that connect international cities to Wuhan, it may sometimes be complicated to get one that fits right in your travel schedule. With Skyscanner, you will be able to look through hundreds of relevant results, apply layers and layers of filters (which may come in the form of travel dates, departure times or simply preferred carriers) and find the flights that will take you here for the least amount of money.
Travelling to and from Wuhan Tianhe International Airport to Wuhan's city centre
The Wuhan Tianhe International Airport is located around 25km away from the city centre. The quickest and possibly most affordable way to get into the city would be to head to the Tianhe Airport Railway Station where you will be able to get to Hankou Railway Station and the Xiaogan Railway Station for SGD 2 (CNY 8) and SGD 3 (CNY 16) respectively. While taxis are generally the most convenient method of transportation, it is not uncommon to see foreigners (especially those who do not speak Mandarin) paying a higher price - official fares should cost approximately SGD 10 (CNY 50) but a much higher fare of SGD 30 (CNY 150) is often quoted. For information on car rentals, please check out the Car Hire page.
Cheapest flights to Wuhan from airports near Singapore
Flexible where you fly? Search nearby airports for bigger savings.
Airports near Wuhan
Prices shown on this page are estimated lowest prices only. Found in the last 45 days.


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"I—am—Faith—Meredith," she said, in little more than a whisper.
"Meredith, hey? One of the parson's youngsters, hey? I've heard of you—I've heard of you! Riding on pigs and breaking the Sabbath! A nice lot! What do you want here, hey? What do you want of the old pagan, hey? I don't ask favours of parsons—and I don't give any. What do you want, I say?"
Faith wished herself a thousand miles away. She stammered out her thought in its naked simplicity.
"I came—to ask you—to go to church—and pay—to the salary."


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How To Have A Successful Home Based Business
Getting your own home-based business up and running is much easier when you have good guidance. There are many tips in this article to help you start your home based business.
When you are going to hire people to help with your home business, it is important to do your research on them. If they are poor salesmen or unreliable, it damages your business.
Join discussion groups and online forums for those with home businesses. Not only is this a great way to network with like-minded professionals, but it is another way to get your name and product out there to others. It's impossible to know what a new contact may bring to the table in terms of sales.
Be at your best when you have a home business enterprise, even if you don't leave the house that day. Even though it can be extremely fulfilling to have a home business, your self-esteem could suffer if you place work before your own needs. Shower and get dressed every morning and take the time to get a workout in. Apply these tips to boost your self esteem and you'll find that others hold you in higher esteem as well.
Create an account at one of the many home business enterprise forums available on the internet. It also gives you the chance to interact with people who are in a similar position. Many people who work from home will have the same issues and problems as you, so you can share solutions.
You will find a lot of good advice about online business ownership on the Internet. Be wary of the many fraudulent offers on the Internet, however. Always check to see if the information you want is available somewhere else for free. There are complex scams out there as well. If it is sound too good, it probably isn't true.
Emergency Fund
All businesses should have an emergency fund. This can assist you when unexpected expenses hit, without disrupting your regular business operations. Don't "borrow" from the emergency fund or use it for non-emergencies, and if you do use funds, replace them as soon as you can.
Look online for business supplies that are sold at wholesale pricing. Online shopping will reveal a mass amount of product with competitive pricing for the purchase of this kind of product. However, most companies will require proof of a legitimate business; therefore, it is advisable to have a current copy of your business license available at the time of your transactions.
It is vitally important to know who your target market is before starting your business. Even if you think you know everything there is about your product or service, understanding the market will allow you to create a targeted sales plan to attract customers. If you are creating a website, investigate how your target market uses the Internet, and work from there.
As stated in the start of this guide, a lot of people dream about starting a home based business. Success may be a dream if you are uneasy about how to go about a business.


text:
Blue wool dress
Code: FZD781A8USF1856
Dress with high collar, raglan sleeves, side slits and longer hemline on the back. Made of wool and cashmere cable knit in blue tones. Yoke in white fisherman's rib knit. Finished with lace details.
Made in Italy
More details
- Product Code:FZD781A8USF1856
- Composition:70%WOOL,30%CASHMERE+RIBBON:55%POLYAMIDE,30%MODAL,15%VISCOSE
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