fineryNew England

MAGAZ INE

Summer 2012

In this issue ...There is a lot that has to happen before a housebecomes a home. For this first anniversary issue ofNew England Finery (our premier issue launched inFebruary of 2011) we are covering the building ofa home from the foundation up. Not just anyhome, a Habitat for Humanity home.

Habitat for Humanity International is the largestnon-profit home builder in the world. Their missionis to provide affordable homes for people whoneed them. Their efforts are sustained by manyvolunteers, from professional builders who manageprojects to community members who want to lenda helping hand.

This year, during the week of June 4th throughthe 10th, more than 200 homes will be built byHabitat for Humanity affiliates during a nationwideBuilders Blitz. Two of those homes will be built inLawrence, Massachusetts by Merrimack ValleyHabitat for Humanity working in partnership witha leadership team of professional builders anddozens of local volunteers.

In this issue, we will share the stories of the peoplebehind the build, who have donated materials,time and expertise to ensure that two deservingfamilies achieve the American dream of home-ownership. We will also shine a light on the powerof community spirit that brings people togetherand redefines the notion of what it means to bea neighbor. And for good measure, we will presentdecorating ideas on how to create comfortableand welcoming living spaces that truly reflect ourpersonal visions of “home.”

On our cover and opposite page ...

Andrew Steingiser’s architectural renderings of the proposedMerrimack Valley Habitat for Humanity two-family home.

Yvonne Blackereditor/creative directorof New England Finery

www.yvonneblacker.comdesignvignettes.blogspot.com

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• Founded in 1985 as a non-profit,ecumenical-based organization

• One of the more productiveHabitat for Humanity affiliatesin New England

• 67 homes built and 8 morerehabbed ... putting 75 familiesinto homes

• 12 homes currently underconstruction or in the pipeline

• The average home costsapproximately $115,000 to build

• Habitat families purchase theirhomes for the out-of-pocket costof construction with a no-interestmortgage held by Habitat

• The homeowner’s income fallsbetween 25%and 50% of the HUDdetermined Area Median Income(AMI) – which in Lawrence means$22,000–$44,000 for a family of 4

• Habitat finances homes with a 20,25 or 30-year, no-interest mortgage

Builders Blitz 2012

History of the Home Builders Blitz

In 2002, Habitat for Humanity of Wake County (NorthCarolina) and local custom home builder Tom Gipsonpartnered to recruit 12 professional homebuilders tobuild one house each in a five-day period, donatingas much of the materials as possible. The results wereastounding: 12 homes completed in five days at a totalcost to the affiliate (not including land) of $84,000. Inaddition to donating labor and materials, the buildersraised $100,000 in cash donations.

This local idea became a successful national initiativein June 2006.* The first national Home Builders Blitzinvolved more than 1,000 professional homebuildersworking on 459 homes at 130 Habitat affiliates acrossthe country, providing housing for nearly 2,000 people.The project was so successful that affiliates and builderswanted to replicate it in 2008. For Home Builders Blitz2008, 263 homes were built in 34 states, with 110 Habitataffiliates participating.

To date, 862 homes have been constructed under theHome Builders Blitz model, including the two nationalprojects, off-year local builds, and the pilot projects thatpreceded the first national build.

– information courtesy of Habitat for Humanity

*Merrimack Valley Habitat for Humanity first got involved with the Builders Blitz in2006. Lead builders included Andover Equity Builders of Andover MA, BlackdogBuilders of Salem NH, and Childs Design & Construction of Andover MA.

Buy a block and support futureefforts of Merrimack Valley

Habitat for Humanity. Click here to view our online media kit.

EssexPHYSICAL THERAPY

&CHIROPRACTICOF ANDOVER

Dr. Michael Provenzano

This Merrimack Valley Habitat for Humanitystory has a definite beginning ...

A Builders Blitz kick-off ...

It all started when a lot of land wasdonated by the family of Marcel(Marty) Brien who for years ownedand operated Brien Fuel Companyin Lawrence, MA.

According to his son, Danny, MartyBrien “had a soft spot for honest,hardworking people who neededa break.” After Marty passed in2008, his children consulted withtheir uncle, Arthur Brien, who at82 still volunteers with MerrimackValley Habitat for Humanity.

Consequently, Danny and his eightsiblings decided to donate theinherited lot of land to MerrimackValley Habitat for Humanity.

> Click here to read “The View from thePorch” for more details on this generousdonation, along with the subsequentplans to develop this Market Streetsite into two homes during this year’sBuilders Blitz.

To kick off the Merrimack Valley Habitat for Humanity Builders Blitz 2012,team members, supporters and invited guests gathered last January atAndolini’s Restaurant in Andover, MA where they got to see the unveilingof the design plans by Architect Andrew Steingiser along with hearingheartfelt words from a current Habitat for Humanity homeowner.

> Visit www.andolinisrestaurant.com

Architect Andrew Steingiser presents his design plan.

Family members – who have benefitted from the MerrimackValley Habitat for Humanity homeownership program – inspiredthe crowd by sharing both their experience and their gratitude.

Steve Howell, Howell Custom Building Group; Mark Gridley,Pella Windows; John Rodenhizer, JSR Adaptive Energy Solutions

Back row left to right: Steve Howell, Howell Custom Building Group,Bill Foster, Cote & Foster, Dave West, Meadowview ConstructionFront row left to right: Bob Gosselin,Correct Temp, Inc., Steve Cote,Cote & Foster, Susan Howell, Howell Custom Building Group, Ken Kumph,Premier Builders, Sara Elmer and John Rodenhizer, JSR AdaptiveEnergy Solutions, and Architect Andrew Steingiser

Back RowBob Gosselin, Correct Temp Inc., Methuen, MASara Elmer, JSR Adaptive Energy Solutions, Hamilton, MAEmerson Dahmen, Building Director, Merrimack Valley HabitatBill Foster, Cote & Foster Custom Building & Remodeling, Methuen, MAJohn Rodenhizer, JSR Adaptive Energy Solutions, Hamilton, MASteve Cote, Cote & Foster Custom Building & Remodeling, Methuen, MAKen Kumph, Premier Builders, Georgetown, MA

Front RowSusan Howell, Howell Custom Building Group, Lawrence, MASteve Howell, Howell Custom Building Group, Lawrence, MADave West, Meadowview Construction, Georgetown, MA

Builders Blitz Leadership TeamTOM GRASSI PHOTO

From left to right ...

Meet the buildersbehind the Blitzinterviews conducted by Beezee Honan

m Visit our Blitz website m Like us on Facebook

What will you be doing for the Merrimack Valley Habitatfor Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2012?

I am responsible for all the design work, which includes theproduction of construction documents and then ongoingdesign coordination during the construction phase. I startedworking on this project in July 2011. My wedding was onAugust 21, 2011, so it was a busy time! The design processis ongoing. As we move forward with construction detailsand get clarification on specific materials, there aremodifications that have to be made to the design.

Similar to the other two- and three-family houses in thiscontext – this is an urban environment in the Greater Bostonlocale – this duplex is a single building, however, the twotownhouses are expressed as separate, yet interlocked, sothat each family has their own roof over their heads.

Why have you chosen to participate in this project and haveyou worked with Habitat for Humanity in the past?

As a young architect, I’m eager to take on design challenges.This is the most meaningful work I have ever done. It will be avery personal and gratifying experience to meet the familiesthat will inhabit the buildings that I have designed.

My wife, who was my fiance at the time, saw a postingonline announcing the need for an architect for Habitatfor Humanity’s Builders Blitz in Lawrence. I was interestedin becoming involved and pursued the lead. I met withEmerson Dahmen, the Building Director from the MerrimackValley Habitat organization, and I was in! He is clearlypassionate about what he does and exhibits an energythat is contagious and motivational.

Tell us about yourself ...

My full-time job is at CBT Architects in Boston. Our firm is largeand does many commercial, corporate, and mixed useprojects. Typically we work in teams, which is very differentthan my participation in this project where I am solelyresponsible for all aspects of the design process.

At CBT, I have worked on many project types. Recently, Iworked on the Liberty Mutual headquarters in downtown

Andrew SteingiserCBT Architects, Boston, MA

Architect Andrew Steingiser

Builders Blitz Architect

“The two town-houses areexpressed asseparate, yetinterlocked,so that eachfamily has theirown roof overtheir heads.”

Boston, which is a tower between Back Bay and the SouthEnd, near the old John Hancock building. In contrast tothis large scale project, I am also working on a 2,000 sq. ft.highly designed office space for a major bio-tech companyin Cambridge.This office space is located in a buildingthat used to be a factory. I worked on the initial designphase and now I’m working on the constructionadministration phase while the space is being built.

I consider myself to be a well-rounded architect basedon my experience and education. I have the ability togenerate design proposals considering very technicalaspects and then remain dedicated to the projectthrough construction to ensure implementation of theinitial design intent. I enjoy working on all phases.

I went to Syracuse University for my architecture degree.To become a registered architect, you have to go throughthree years of IDP apprenticeship (Intern DevelopmentProgram) before you are eligible to take your architecturalregistration exam.

I also teach second year design studios at the BostonArchitectural College. I’m passionate about beingengaged in the Boston design community and to thedevelopment of other young designers.

I currently live in Malden with my new bride.

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

This job site! I am still gettingto know my way around thearea. I’m certainly interestedin everyone else’s recom-mendations.

What home means to me:

A space where families cancome together that expressestheir unique characteristics.My definition of home hasbeen expanding and evolv-ing as my life circumstanceschange. In addition to thehome of my parents andsiblings, I have created ahome with my wife.

Links ...

steingiserarchitecture.com

cbtarchitects.comthe-bac.edu

Rendering above by Andrew Steingiser represents the two-familyhome that will be constructed during the Builders Blitz in Lawrence.

What will your company be doing for the Merrimack Valley Habitat for HumanityHome Builders Blitz 2012?

STEVE: I am the chairman of the Blitz Builder team, so I started working on it lastfall. Ken LaRose (Andover Equity Builders) – the chairman of the Board of Directorsfor the Merrimack Valley Habitat – asked me to oversee this year’s Blitz. I hadalready been on the Habitat Board for a year.The first thing we did was recruit other leadbuilders that had different areas of expertise:Dave West (Meadowview Construction),Ken Kumph (Premier Builders), Steve Cote andBill Foster (Cote & Foster), and myself, as generalcontractors, plus Bob Gosselin (Correct Temp)and our energy consultant, John Rodenhizer(JSR Adaptive Energy Solutions).

Our first order of business was to divide the jobresponsibilities – the sequence of work. I willpersonally oversee the excavation phase ofthe project. My construction responsibility willactually be done before the Blitz begins, so thatI can manage the remainder of the project.

The excavation was a challenge because wehad to dig three feet away from the neighboringbuildings – about six feet deep. So we were con-cerned about the impact on those structures. Itwent incredibly smoothly. Larry Kelly of KendalConstruction very generously donated two dayswith an excavator to dig out the area where thefoundation would be poured. We got a truckerto donate time to haul the fill out of the site, anda place that agreed to accept the fill. We hadMahoney’s Garden Center donate the crushedstone to fill the interior of the foundation belowthe cement floor.

SUSAN: I oversee the Logistics Committee, which encompasses all non-constructionactivities, such as meal planning, publicity, and site logistics. I also work as the liaisonbetween the Logistics Committee and the Lead Builder team.

Why have you chosen to participate in this project, and have you worked withHabitat for Humanity in the past?

STEVE: My first exposure to Habitat was in Boxford in regards to a 40B project.I got the chance to get to know the Habitat team, especially Larry Sharp, the

Steve & Susan HowellHowell Custom Building Group, Lawrence, MA

Builders Blitz Leadership Team & Logistics Team

former Executive Director of Merrimack Valley Habitat forHumanity. Eventually, he asked me if I wanted to join theBoard. My wife, Sue – who is skilled in marketing – professedan interest in becoming involved as well, so we joined at thesame time.

I wanted to contribute to the city of Lawrence where wehave been headquartered since 2003, and at the sametime improve the community. With this build, we are takinga vacant lot and putting some well-built attractive homesin its place.

I have also helped out on a former convent in Lawrencewhich is being revitalized by Habitat and remodeled into 10

condos. I think it used tohouse about 40 nuns. Itwas originally built in theearly 1900s, and has alot of decorative work.

SUSAN: I have been onthe Board since thesummer of 2010. WhenI started with Habitat,they were getting readyto open the ReStore,which sells new andgently used buildingmaterials and homefurnishings at reducedprices. All of the profitsfrom ReStore go tosupport MerrimackValley Habitat’s buildingprojects. My role on theboard is to help withmarketing, so I helpedout with the marketingplan for ReStore and itsgrand opening event.The ReStore is doing welland sales are strong.

The Builders Blitz was theperfect project for us. It

was a great way to give back to a part of the communitythat we don’t typically service. Our clients are fortunate tobe able to afford luxurious, comfortable, beautiful homes, soit feels like we are completing the cycle when we can alsocreate a home for a family who couldn’t otherwise afford it.

Tell us about yourself ...

STEVE: I have a degree inelectrical engineering fromCornell. I was an engineerfor 12 years in the medicalproducts group for HewlettPackard. I always dabbledin construction as a hobby.Every summer during collegeI worked on a constructioncrew. I rehabbed our firstcondo in Andover andthen built our timber framehouse in Boxford and Iwas hooked!

I’ve always been interestedin building very high-quality,sturdy buildings. HowellCustom Building Groupstarted with myself and oneother employee and slowlywe grew. Since we started in1997, we have grown to 20employees. The majority ofour work is additions andrenovations, although webuild a custom home aboutevery other year. We do 20-25 addition and renovationprojects annually. The vastmajority of them are inBoxford, Andover, andNorth Andover. At somepoint, we have worked inalmost every town on theNorth Shore. Many of ourclients come from referralsand word-of-mouth.

I met Sue at Cornell ona blind date. We are stillfriends with the woman whoset us up! Our daughtergoes to Cornell and our sonattends Phillips Academyin Andover.

PHOTO: BRIAN VANDEN BRINK

Community SponsorsAlside Supply CenterAmerican Building SystemsAriel ElectricBeaulieu CabinetryBell SimonsBoutin GlassBrimac ElectricByrne InsulationCorrect Temp, Inc.AW Dale Plumbing & HeatingDana Kimball Concrete FloorsDavid ElectricDumais ElecrtricWilliam F. Dunn Landscaping & ContractingEdgepro FlooringGathering Change, Inc.Gold Coast Mortgage ServiceGuerin ElectricMilton Hamilton/JMK Contractors & BuildersHamilton Bookkeeping, LLCHand Forged WorksHeffron MaterialsJace InteriorsLucia LightingThe M. O’Mahoney CompanyMadison Ave. of MelroseND LandscapingNew Hampshire Tool & SupplyNorthside Carting, Trash RemovalNorthStar MechanicalPeabody Supply Co.Professional DraftingPuccio ElectricRachel Reider InteriorsRJ Ratte ConstructionRenaissance InteriorsRight Angle KitchensRob Bramhall ArchitectsSchneider ElectricSelectwoodTri-City SalesValspar PaintWhirlpoolJ Wasylak PavingWayside TrailersWeaver BrothersMarion WiseYale Locks

Architectural ServicesAndrew Steingiser

Gold SponsorsThe Brien Family (land donation)

Silver SponsorsB & D House of Carpets

M & R Plumbing and HeatingWatts Water Technologies

Bronze SponsorsAmerican Standard

Avon Supply Co.Breen & Sullivan Mechanical Services, Inc.

Concepts in Concrete/Tom CarsonCover-Rite Siding & Window Corp

Designer Bath & Salem Plumbing SupplyJackson Lumber & Millwork

Kendall Construction/Larry KellyLaars Heating Systems Company

Lambert RoofingThe Portland Group

The Tapco GroupJW Watson Jr. Paving

Iron SponsorsBeacon ElectricalDana Wallboard

CertainTeedDow Industries

The Green Cocoon InsulationHarvey Building Products

Hunter DouglasLarco Wallboard Inc.

M & P SidingJ.G. Maclellan Concrete Company

New Hamphire Wall Panels/Jay WrightPella Windows

Shea Concrete ProductsThe Security Team

Look for Food and Event Sponsorson a separate page in this issue

> click here for sponsor links

Thank you to our Blitz 2012 sponsors:

SUSAN: I worked in educational publishingfor 10 years as a marketing manager.Home building was always a passion ofSteve’s and I was able to help him withthe organization of the business. As thecompany grew, I was able to utilize mymarketing background to help thebusiness expand. I work to build relation-ships with other industry professionalsand I oversee all marketing activities.

I am in my third year as the Presidentof the Board of Parents of Students atPhillips Academy (PSPA). I also conductalumni interviews with prospectiveCornell applicants.

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

STEVE: My favorite place to eat is CaféAzteca, the Mexican restaurant in thecenter of the common in Lawrence. Myfavorite place to visit is the bridge thatlooks out over the waterfalls of themighty Merrimack River. I love to watchthe Merrimack River spill over the falls.My favorite place to shop is White StreetPaint. They are extremely knowledgeableand easy to work with.

SUSAN: I love Café Azteca for its authenticMexican food and atmosphere. FisichellisPastry Shop, which has been owned bythe same family and in the same locationsince 1915, is also a favorite. It rivals any-thing the North End has to offer and it’sright here in Lawrence.

What home means to me:

STEVE: Sanctuary.

SUSAN: A well-built, comfortable, safespace that reflects a family’s lifestyleand interests.

Recommendations ...

fisichellis.comcafe-azteca.comwhitestreetpaint.com

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What will your company be doing for the Merrimack ValleyHabitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2012?

I am a member of the 2012 Home Builders Blitz LeadershipTeam. My responsibility is the interior finish carpentry. Thisincludes hanging doors, applying finish work on windowsand around the cabinetry, plus installing all cabinetry andappliances in the two units. We are hoping to have thecabinets and counters donated. Our goal is to assemblea team of approximately 12 experienced people. This willincrease our ability to be successful in our ambitious goal ofgetting our part of the project completed in one day. Myson will be helping me. He went to Norwich and then toWentworth Institute of Technology. I am an alumni of there,too. I also have another son, who is 17, and a 22-year-olddaughter. All three of my children, as well as my wife, willbe helping out.

Why have you chosen to participate in this project and haveyou worked with Habitat for Humanity in the past?

When I was approached to participate, I immediately saidyes. I had been interested in working on a Habitat project inthe past but just didn’t really know how to get involved.When the opportunity came along to work with other industryprofessionals and friends to provide housing for local families,it just felt right. The challenge of building two units in oneweek was, and is, intriguing. The experience has alreadybeen more rewarding than I could have imagined. At thekick-off event for participants, we heard from the owner ofa Habitat home built during the last Builders Blitz and it wasincredibly moving. The preparation process is in high gear,so we recently saw the foundation put in and that reallymakes it tangible.

Tell us about yourself ...

I graduated from the Wentworth Institute of Technology.I became a carpenter and started Premier Builders, Inc.in Georgetown. This is our 26th year in business. We arecustom builders and remodelers and have our ownin-house Architectural Millwork Division, which fabricates,finishes and installs custom cabinetry, furniture, mouldingsand architectural elements. I am president of the companyand employ 11 people, including office support, managers,carpenters, laborers, and cabinet makers. We have a17,000 sq. ft. building and half of it is our shop.

Kenneth A. KumphPremier Builders, Inc., Georgetown, MA

BRIAN VANDEN BRINK

Builders Blitz Leadership Team

AL MALLETTE, LIGHTSTREAM PHOTOGRAPHY

Premier Builders has a wide range of projects onour resume. We have done custom building andmajor remodeling, as well as small jobs such as basiccarpentry for home maintenance. We also do somecommercial work.We have worked on many medicaland dental offices. We offer a “Weekend Wake-up”service that has earned rave reviews. The employeesof a business leave on Friday and when they comein on Monday, the project is done. We have donework all around Merrimack Valley and recently dida job in Florida. We have done jobs in Brookline,Boston, and all along the North Shore. We havetravelled to NH, NY, and Maine with our millwork. Westay in New England for big jobs because we haveour network of subs here and they are critical to oursuccess. We try to keep the team together becauseour regular subs do a great job and have the samelevel of professionalism as everyone in my company.

I am a member of the National Association of HomeBuilders (NAHB) and received the “Remodeling Big50 Award” from Remodeling Magazine in 2004.Premier Builders has also won awards from theCabinet Makers Association (won two first place:custom kitchen over $25,000 and commercialproject over $25,000).

I did a lot of coaching for my kids sports programsas they were growing up. I coached soccer, base-ball, and served as a Cub Scout leader. I enjoyedhelping out the local public schools and oftendonated my time on small carpentry projects forschool athletic facilities, such as building shedsand benches for the baseball dug-outs.

I have been married for almost 25 years. We werehigh school sweethearts in Danvers!

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

My wife Lisa and I like sushi and will often go toYokohama in Lawrence. When the kids wereyounger, we would go there and the chefs wouldcook “Hibachi” style. They really put on an entertainingshow complete with flaming onion volcanoes andflying shrimp! The owners are very nice people.Jackson Lumber is also a favorite vendor of PremierBuilders. The Torrissi family runs a great organization.

BRIAN VANDEN BRINK

“When the opportunitycame along to workwith other industryprofessionals and friendsto provide housing forlocal families, it justfelt right.”

What home means to me:

Family, gathering, protectionand pride. I am happy thattwo local families will have theopportunity to experiencethe same.

Recommendations ...

yokohamajapanesesteakhouse.com

jacksonlumber.com

What will your company be doing for the Merrimack Valley Habitatfor Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2012?

Meadowview was really excited when Habitat for Humanityreached out and asked us to be a Lead Builder on the BlitzPlanning Committee as well as participate during the “Big Week”of construction. There are six Lead Specialists on the Committee.Meadowview will have the oversight of handling the exteriordetails including siding, trim and roofing. In addition to otherresponsibilities, my role on the planning committee is to help bringtogether a team of top notch, expert volunteers and identifydonors for the supply of exterior components. When asked fordonations on behalf of Habitat for Humanity, our donors havegiven very generously and it was immediately clear they valuedthe mission and work of Habitat for Humanity.

It goes without saying, when a group decides to build two completehouses in one week, there is a lot of planning taking place behindthe scenes. The Planning Committee is a hand-picked gathering ofthe top six experts in their respective professions. It is an incrediblytalented and experienced group. The Committee has been meetingand planning regularly since October to identify everything fromthe timing of the build to the building materials used (such as siding)to how many hard hats are required. Because of the strength ofthe Committee, each person on the Builders Blitz team has theirown resources and shares relationships to support the Habitat forHumanity Builders Blitz.

It is one thing to plan, it is another to do. For that we needed lotsof skilled labor volunteers (only skilled tradespeople are utilized onthe Blitz due to the intense timeframe). Many companies havedonated volunteers to assist with tasks such as plumbing, wiring,drywall and utilities installation. Typically, a volunteer gives a dayof their labor as a donation to the project. The siding, roofing andtrim will all be completed in about two days and we are fortunatethat all of our work is on the exterior so it won’t be affected toomuch by other workers.

Dave WestMeadowview ConstructionGeorgetown, MA

Builders Blitz Leadership Team

PHOTO: DAVID WEST

Why have you chosen to participate in thisproject and have you worked with Habitatfor Humanity in the past?

Giving back to our community has been acore component of the Meadowview wayfrom the very beginning. We seek to lend ahand whenever (and wherever) someone is inneed. In 2008, I chose to travel to Biloxi, MS toparticipate on a Habitat for Humanity Build,where I was a Lead Builder. Hurricane Katrinadevastated the region in ways that can’t beimagined and being involved with Habitat forHumanity was a life-changing event. So muchwas needed and I had the skills to make adifference. It was only a few months afterreturning home that I felt the call again andreturned to assist on a second Katrina Habitatfor Humanity project. After that project, wekept our ears open for opportunities tosupport Habitat for Humanity locally. Meanwhile,Meadowview continued to support a varietyof charitable organizations in the towns inwhich we do business (such as Hamilton,Wenham, Beverly Farms and much of EssexCounty) but something was missing.

When Steve Howell asked if I’d be willing tojoin him in planning the 2012 Builders Blitz, Ijumped at the opportunity. The experiences Ihad in Biloxi gave me firsthand knowledge ofthe level of impact a small group of dedicatedvolunteers can make on someone’s life. Thevoid was filled.

Tell us about yourself ...

I graduated in 1990 from college inVermont with a degree in architecture.After graduation, likely because ofthe lasting influence of my wood-working grandfather, I becameincreasingly involved with constructioninstead of architecture. I cut my teethas a builder and remodeler workingfor a residential construction companyin Beverly. It was a positive experienceand it was in my 20s that I startedMeadowview. Not having a separateshop to call home, the garage wasconverted into the Meadowviewwoodshop. One of our first customprojects built in that garage won aNational Association of the RemodelingIndustry award and we haven’t lookedback. Times have changed, as they do,and from those humble beginningswe now operate out of our own 4,800square foot facility that supports bothMeadowview Construction and ourseparate custom cabinet company.

Military values are strong in my familyand my father was dedicated to thearmy. I was born in Germany and likemany military families we movedaround the country, until I was eight,when we settled in Salem. My fatherwas a self-taught and talented man.One of the first real projects I helpedDad with was the remodeling of ourold house in Salem at the age of 10.

ERIC ROTH PHOTOGRAPHYBLIND DOG PHOTOGRAPHY

Later in this issue ...

Merrimack ValleyHabitat for HumanityHome Builders Blitz 2012construction photos

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There wasn’t anything in which I wasn’t included. We evenmade furniture together. After I started my own business myfather would occasionally come visit me on jobs and onceeven helped me finish a job when I was shorthanded. Sadly,my father passed away at a young age. Those projectsmean even more to me now and I often think of our timebuilding (and talking) together whenever I sit on that wooddeck that we built as a gift for my mother.

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

As one that loves good food, especially baked goods, Iwill definitely be paying Tripoli a visit. I am excited that theBlitz is going to give me a chance to explore some of theindependent restaurants and shops of the area.

What home means to me:

Home is the safe, comfortable place that I call my own.Home is where I am myself. I am a true New Englanderand couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.

Links ...

tripolibakery.com

Click here to listen to Dave’s radio interview on theStar Construction Company Home Remodeling Show

Builders Blitz Leadership Team & Logistics Team

John Rodenhizer& Sara ElmerJSR Adaptive Energy Solutions, LLCSouth Hamilton & West Falmouth, MA

What will your company be doing for the Merrimack ValleyHabitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2012?

JOHN: I am a member of the Builders Blitz Leadership Teamand will be coordinating the insulation/drywall and plasteringpart of the project. I am a HERS (Home Energy Rating System)Rater, building consultant, certified Thermographer, Green Verifierfor NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) as well as anENERGY STAR partner. I am verifying the Habitat homes for theMA New Homes with ENERGY STAR program. Both homes will beENERGY STAR-certified, which means that they will meet a higherperformance standard than a new home built to the basebuilding code. The program has three levels. The first tier is 15%more efficient than a minimum code built house, the second is30% and the third is 45%. This project is expected to achieve Tier II.

SARA: I am a member of the Builders Blitz Logistics Team andhave also been attending the Leadership Team meetingssince last October. I assist Susan (Howell) in coordinating effortsbetween the Lead Builders and what we need to accomplishin terms of the mountain of details assigned to our eight personlogistics team.

Some information about ENERGY STAR: Habitat for Humanity’sconstruction guidelines include ENERGY STAR’s residential con-struction guidelines and Habitat encourages all U.S. affiliates tobuild ENERGY STAR qualified homes. ENERGY STAR has workedclosely with Habitat in their effort to build new, affordablehomes that are energy efficient. This results in lower energy andoperating costs for the homeowners. In addition, the homesbecome eligible for significant rebates and incentives, whichin this case, will go directly back to Habitat. Merrimack ValleyHabitat will be receiving over $5,000.00 in rebates on thisproject. That feels great!

“ENERGY STARhas workedclosely withHabitat intheir effort tobuild new,affordablehomes thatare energyefficient. Thisresults in lowerenergy andoperatingcosts for thehomeowners.”

– Sara Elmer

JOHN: We started work on this projectlast October. The Leadership Teamworked together with the architectAndrew Steingiser to streamline thedesign to ensure that we can buildeverything in five days. It is difficult tobuild in an urban environment and thisis a very challenging site! As part of theENERGY STAR work I will be developing acomputer model that will determine theHERS scores for each unit. The HERS scoreis an index — the average code-builthouse is about a 90. Building a “codehouse” is a “D” (a passing grade) andwe have so many new technologiesand ways to make houses a “B” oran “A.” The lower the HERS score, themore energy-efficient the home. Ihope that one day, all homes will beNet-Zero — producing as muchenergy as they consume.

SARA: Of the 351 cities and towns inMassachusetts, there are currently 104communities who have adopted the“Stretch Energy Code,” one of the fivecriteria that must be achieved in orderto become a “Green Community” inMassachusetts and receive state fundingfor green initiatives. The Stretch Codemust be voted in by the town to beimplemented and enforced. A newhome built in a Stretch Code communitymust meet more stringent energy per-formance requirements than a regularcode-built house and must have a HERSrater certify the building, who can alsocertify the project for ENERGY STAR.As building consultants, we usuallyrecommend that a homeowner orbuilder enroll in the ENERGY STAR program— whether or not they are in a StretchCode town — in order to be eligible forsizable rebates. No one will pay you tomeet Stretch Code, but if you meettheir requirements, Massachusetts NewHomes with ENERGY STAR will!

PHOTO: JSR ADAPTIVE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

“I hope that one day, allhomes will be Net-Zero —producing as muchenergy as they consume.”

– John Rodenhizer

“As building consultants, weusually recommend thata homeowner or builderenroll in the ENERGY STARprogram — whether or notthey are in a Stretch Codetown — in order to beeligible for sizable rebates.”

– Sara Elmer

Why have you chosen to participate in this project and haveyou worked with Habitat for Humanity in the past?

JOHN: This is something that we have been wanting to do fora long time. We wanted to give back and this was a significantchallenge that we found exciting. It is not going to be easy tobuild a duplex in five days! It has been great working witheveryone on the team — each person brings somethingspecial to the table.

SARA: After investigating the Habitat organization over the pastfew years, I was particularly impressed with the Merrimack ValleyHabitat affiliate. When we were invited by one of the othermembers of the Leadership Team to join in the planning andexecution of the 2012 Builders Blitz, we had to say yes!!

Tell us about yourself ...

JOHN: I have a construction engineering degree fromWentworth Institute of Technology in Boston. I have a builderslicense and have been in the industry for over 30 years. I grewup in Falmouth and worked on the Cape building high endresidences for 25 years before going into the energy consultingfield. We currently have projects from the Merrimack Valley toCape Ann, Cape Cod and the Islands. I love to be involved inprojects where people strive to have a home that will be energyefficient, and like to work with people who are thoughtful andprogressive in their building decisions. It’s all about reducing ourcarbon footprint and being gentle to the environment. I am anavid outdoorsman and believe it is vital to protect and manageour natural resources for future generations.

Sara and I have been together for four and a half years. She ismy life and business partner. She has a great ability to explainwhat we do in laymen’s terms. She can answer the “whats” and“whys” in a way that homeowners understand. She managesour business operations and “keeps the train on the tracks!”

PHOTOS: JSR ADAPTIVE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

SARA: I have a dual degree from Tufts University in Economics andPsychology. I have worked and volunteered for many years withsocial service agencies and programs in the Metro Boston areafocusing on domestic violence and am a regular guest speaker onthese issues in medical, educational and community settings. I wasalso a former competitive equestrian at the state and nationallevels. Though I am not currently riding, I really enjoy the frequent“whinny-ing” from my neighbor’s barn across the river. The NorthShore is a wonderful place for horse and wildlife lovers, but the juryis still out on those giant snapping turtles as lawn ornaments!

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

SARA: I am new to Lawrence and do not live in the MerrimackValley so I am not very familiar with the area. However, I can saythat my favorite place in Lawrence (to date) is the ReStore! Johnand I attended the opening last year, which is where I met SusanHowell for the first time (John met Steve the year before). TheReStore is a terrific concept. Essentially a thrift store for the home —those who shop there, those who donate and especially MV Habitatreap rewards. A win-win-win. It’s the best kind of recycling!

What home means to me:

JOHN: Your home is your personal sanctuary. It’s the place whereyou take your armor off, a place to relax and restore your sanity.You need to have a place where you can rejuvenate yourself.

SARA: A place where a sense of peace and a sense of humor canco-exist nicely. It is also a safe, healthy and inviting environmentwhere family and friends look forward to visiting.

“I love to be involved in projects where people strive tohave a home that will be energy efficient, and like towork with people who are thoughtful and progressivein their building decisions. It’s all about reducing ourcarbon footprint and being gentle to the environment.”

– John Rodenhizer

What will your company be doing for theMerrimack Valley Habitat for HumanityHome Builders Blitz 2012?

We are framing the building. We plan topre-frame all the walls, floors and interiorpartitions at a satellite location. They willthen be brought to the site and installed.We want to to get to the point that wehave all the pieces ready, then during theweek of the Builders Blitz the building willjust need to be put together. The hurdleslie in engineering challenges — the piecesare large and have to be moved verycarefully by crane.

Why have you chosen to participate in this project and have youworked with Habitat for Humanity in the past?

BILLY: We have donated money to Habitat before, but had never participatedwith our time and expertise. We went to a meeting and realized that theframing needed to be done by an expert. Soon after, we met with one of theHabitat homeowners and it was moving. We were especially touched by thechildren of the new homeowners. I heard a story of a child who moved intoa Habitat home and his primary source of anticipation and excitement wasthat his mom would have her own room. Both my partner Steve and I grewup in Lawrence and feel strongly about contributing to the community.

STEVE: It was an opportunity for us to give back. The construction businesshas been very good for us, and with that we have gained a lot of knowledgeand experience that will be put to good use on this Blitz project. JacksonLumber has been a great partner to us over the years and will be heavilyinvolved in our effort to complete this project on time.

Tell us about yourself ...

STEVE: Bill and I have been friends since the first day of grammar school. Thisis our 28th year in business. We both graduated from Greater Lawrence Techand then went to Northern Essex Community College for civil engineering.When we were in school, we started doing small jobs and after each job wewould buy a tool for the business — we basically used what we made toinvest back in our business.

Steve Cote & Billy Foster Cote & Foster, Methuen, MA

Builders Blitz Leadership Team

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BILLY: My dad was one of my best instructors. Heworked for the phone company and would cometo our job sites at the end of the day to inspect ourwork. Initially, we worked out of Steve’s basementand the garage was the workshop. The main phonenumber is Steve’s family’s number. So Steve’s momanswered the phone for us, until his parents movedout of Lawrence. Then my mom took over thephone answering job for the next 10 years.

I am married with three young children: a daughterage 7,and two sons, age 6 and 4.

I am on the Revolving Loan Fund, a non-profitorganization run by the Merrimack Valley Chamberof Commerce. We help out as instructors at GreaterLawrence Tech and we help with the financing forhomes that are built though the Revolving LoanFund with Greater Lawrence Tech.

Right now, we do more remodeling than we do newhomes. We try to put our best foot forward at everyjob. We take great pride in our work. We wouldnever put something in someone else’s house thatwe wouldn’t put in our own house.

STEVE: I have been married for 23 years to my wifeand best friend, Laury, and we have 2 teen-agedchildren — an 18 year old daughter and a sonwho is 16. He goes to Central Catholic and she isgraduating from Salem High in Salem, NH this spring.My volunteer efforts revolved around my children’ssports — helping with coaching softball, hockey,baseball, lacrosse, etc. I have a little bit more timenow that my kids are older, and I am honored to beable to work as a lead builder at the Builders Blitz.I am also looking forward to being more involved inour community as time goes by.

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

STEVE: Tripoli Pizza in Lawrence —my kids love it! There is also aTripoli Bakery as well, which hasbeen in Lawrence since the 1930s.

What home means to me:

BILLY: Lawrence, no question.My heart is in Lawrence, eventhough right now I am hangingmy hat in Dracut.

STEVE: Being with my family.A place where I can relax,unwind, and be with thepeople I love.

Links ...

Greater Lawrence Tech:glts.tec.ma.us

tripolibakery.com

Builders Blitz Leadership Team

Bob GosselinCorrect Temp, Inc., Methuen, MA

What will your company be doing for the Merrimack Valley Habitatfor Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2012?

Correct Temp will be installing the heating systems for both units. Thisincludes all the baseboard and hot water piping, plus all the ventingof the kitchens and bathrooms, including the exhaust vents.

CT has been in business for 16 years. I am the installation manager.We work with both residential and commercial clients. Examples ofour work range from a five story building in Lowell to a small one-family house in Andover. Our clients are located throughout theregion. We have many jobs in southern NH and Merrimack Valley,and have been working in Concord, Scituate, and Sturbridge lately.We provide both installation and service of heating, air conditioning,and ventilation systems. Commercial projects include Loew’s inSalem, NH; Hannaford Market in Guilford, NH; and LA Fitness in Danvers,MA. Keith Guilmet is the owner and employs about 20 people.

Why have you chosen to participate in this project and have youworked with Habitat for Humanity in the past?

This is my first project with Habitat. I was introduced to this project byBilly Foster and Steve Cote of Cote & Foster, since we do all of theirheating and cooling work. I live in Lawrence and like the idea ofmaking a contribution to the community.

Tell us about yourself ...

I’ve been with CT for almost 14 years. I was Keith’s first employee! Weknew each other because we had worked at a couple of companiestogether, one in Middleton and one in Melrose. I was an installationmanager and he was a service manager. We now have our ownbuilding in Methuen with a sheet metal fabrication shop.

I am married and have three children. Our son (26) is out of collegeand is married. One daughter (22) plays softball at MerrimackCollege and the other daughter (19) — also at Merrimack College— plays volleyball. I played tennis in high school and my father wasa tennis coach at Merrimack College. I coach baseball and softballat “Batter Up” (also owned by Keith Guilmet) which is located in thesame building as Correct Temp, Inc.

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

I like to go to Jim’s Subs. They havegreat sourdough bread! Anotherfavorite is Sal’s Restaurant. Those aresome of the top places to go.

What home means to me:

Honestly, I think of my family andbeing comfortable and together. It’snot necessarily about a structure,but it’s more about a feeling ofbeing connected.

Recommendations ...

jimsoriginalsubs.com

salvatoresrestaurants.com

batterupmethuen.com

Event Supporters

Blitz Kickoff Event:Andolinis Restaurant

Photography:Image-tec/Tom Grassi

Photography:Andrew Swaine

Website Design:100 Monkeys/Kristen Petrie

Time Lapse Video:Left Eye Creations/Kellmy Rosado

Tents, Tables, Chairs:Omar Tent Rentals

T-Shirts:Leisure Line Custom Embroidery

Food SponsorsSue Adams InteriorsAndover School of MontessoriBJs Wholesale ClubBertuccisBeverly Mothers ClubButcher BoyChampions BarbecueCostco Wholesale ClubDunkin DonutsEssex Physical Therapy & ChiropracticGrace Professional CosmeticsHungry Betty’s Bar & GrillKettle PizzaLiberty Sub ShopMarket BasketNew MarketNicole NailsPanera BreadPepsiPerfectosShear Radiance Hair & Makeup StudioTina ShumwaySylvan Street Bar & GrilleTedeschis Food Market

> click here for links toour sponsors websites

Thank you to ourBlitz 2012 sponsors:

Left to Right

Sara Elmer, JSR Adaptive Energy Solutions, Hamilton, MA

Yvonne Blacker, Designer Bath, Beverly, MA

Susan Howell, Howell Custom Building Group, Lawrence, MA

Beezee Honan, Designer Bath, Beverly, MA

Sue Adams, Sue Adams Interiors, Andover, MA

Barbara Tomkins, Beechwood Properties, North Andover, MA

Mary Honan, For Marketing Matters, North Andover, MA

In addition ... Laura Gifford, Gifford Events, North Andover, MA

Builders Blitz Logistics TeamTOM GRASSI PHOTO

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While the heavy construction istaking place during the HomeBuilders Blitz, there will be lotsof behind-the-scenes jobs thatdo not involve wearing a toolbelt. Meet the rest of the crewwho is organizing logisticaldetails that range from securingdonations to feeding dozens ofvolunteers 3 healthy meals a dayto managing and promotingthe sequence of events.

interviews conducted by Beezee Honan

Builders Blitz Logistics Team

Mary HonanFor Marketing Matters, North Andover, MA

What will your company be doing for the Merrimack ValleyHabitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2012?

I am a member of the board of MVHH, so I have an ongoingcommitment and vested interest in the affiliate’s efforts andactivities. In particular, Blitz Co-Chair Susan Howell asked meto help out on the Blitz as part of the Marketing Team and theLogistics Committee. Initially I developed a Blitz marketingplan to sequence the efforts — the planning of the Blitz froma marketing perspective. I am leveraging my network ofcontacts to donate services in support of the Blitz. I was ableto get one of my marketing partners, Left Eye Creations inLawrence, to donate time-lapse video of the project. Mycompany, For Marketing Matters, is also designing the T-shirtsthat will be worn on-site by all volunteers and builders andtheir workers. As a member of the Logistics Committee, Iwill be leading the public relations effort, with the goal ofgenerating press for this initiative, as well as overall exposurefor the affiliate.

Why have you chosen to participate in this project and haveyou worked with Habitat for Humanity in the past?

This is my second year on the Board of Directors of theMerrimack Valley Habitat for Humanity affiliate. The affiliatehad hired a consultant to help them identify gaps on theBoard. I knew both the consultant and Ken LaRose, chairmanof the Board. They reached out to me in 2010 to help fill a gapin marketing capability. I met with the Executive Director andother members of the organization to determine the group’sneeds and how that complemented my expertise and avail-ability. I now chair the Nominating Committee for new Boardmembers and I have been working with Susan Howell onmarketing — to drive awareness of the affiliate and theiractivities. Our first undertaking was the launch of ReStore, aretail outlet for donated new and gently used home furnish-ings and building materials. It is in Lawrence and acts as aprimary source of revenue for the affiliate’s operating budget.

Every week, Board members are responsible for greetingvolunteers at the building sites. Typically, we meet at a centrallocation and welcome people then steer them to the

“It is a common mis-conception that thefamilies get the housefor free. They put in asubstantial amountof sweat equity withHabitat and are pay-ing an interest-freemortgage. They’re soappreciative of theopportunity to havetheir own home. It istheir future. It is hope.”

PHOTO: LEFT EYE CREATIONS

appropriate construction site. We are glad to have as many volunteersas we can get, age 16 or older. They can be individuals or members ofgroups. We work rain or shine. On Thursdays and Saturdays, we checkpeople in at 8:15 a.m. and they work as long as they can for the day.Often, local groups provide the lunch for all workers on Saturdays.

One of my roles is to help the affiliate build consistency in terms of howthe organization is presented, refining priorities and honing processes, tomake sure they are consistent. I feel that I have the ability to help theorganization have a stronger sense of identity — clarity of who they areand what they do. For example, it is a common misconception that thefamilies get the house for free. They put in a substantial amount of sweatequity with Habitat and are paying an interest-free mortgage. They areso appreciative of the opportunity to have their own home. It is theirfuture. It is hope. So many people are touched by each project and theBuilders Blitz will do that in a more dramatic and intense way.

I really enjoy the home dedications. The homeowners always have hugesmiles and often get emotional. Sometimes, people who have worked ona site will show up for these events, because they are so proud of theircontributions. Actually, there are so many parts of what I do that are sorewarding. The new homeowners are always so happy and so grateful.

One of the first things that impacted me was acknowledging that I hadlived in this community for years and had not been aware of the needor the existence of this dynamic organization. I particularly enjoy greetingthe volunteers and I am NOT a morning person! When I leave the buildingto re-join my life, I always feel so energized and impressed with the waythat people contribute. I have become very passionate about thisorganization. There is always something that a person can do and eachperson makes a difference. I can’t wait to see the Builders Blitz going onbecause it is going to be so dramatic and it is going to transform MarketStreet before our eyes.

Tell us about yourself ...

My company is focused on helping companies grow, especially smallto mid-sized companies. I work with them to identify who their targetaudience is, what their market definition is, and essentially, we build forthem a marketing strategy, a marketing plan, and then we execute it.My smaller clients can have sales of $1– $2 million a year and mylarger clients $70 –80 million a year. I come on board to work with theowner, president, CEO, who at the time may be executing randommarketing and are “winging it” with no clear focus or strategy onwhat they are trying to accomplish. Together, we work on buildinga strong foundation, which includes a clear understanding of theirunique value proposition. This foundation of strength enables them tohave a cohesive message. We provide website development, socialmarketing (Facebook, blogging, tweeting, etc.), public relations,event strategy, advertising, plus any tactics that make sense for theirmarketing plan and budget. We plan strategy first and then act astheir outsourced marketing department, a natural extension of theirmarketing team.

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

One of my favorite places to eat is Café Azteca. Certainly TripoliBakery is amazing. I think I have bought every birthday cake for myfamily there. I love the old mills, and admire the commitment to thearchitecture and restoring the fabric of community that has madeLawrence great in the past and represents the potential for a strongfuture. There is so much restoration of the buildings and major under-takings and there is a fabulous vision of how streets and neighbor-hoods can be enhanced and improved. My family and I make mealsfor Lazarus House every few months and we serve them and cleanup. It is very important to me that my kids know that giving back isimportant and I model what I say.

What home means to me:

Comfort. Warmth. Peace. A feeling that you have a place that you cancount on and turn to that is a gathering place for people you love.

Recommended link ... www.lazarushouse.org

More about Merrimack ValleyHabitat for Humanity ReStore:A home improvement andhome accessories outletLocation: 4 Union Street, Lawrence, MA

Donate• Donations are tax-deductible• Free pick up of large items available

Shop• New things arrive daily• Prices 50% to 75% off retail

Volunteer• Have fun while doing good!

> Click here to learn more

Builders Blitz Logistics Team

Laura GiffordGifford Events, North Andover, MA

What will your company be doing for the Merrimack ValleyHabitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2012?

I am on the Logistics Committee. My specialty is special eventmanagement, so I am responsible for Opening and ClosingCeremonies and coordination of the VIP Luncheon for SteveThomas. The Opening Ceremony is pretty basic and will kick-offthe week of building. Steve Thomas, known from his years on“This Old House” as well as his own construction show, will becoming to recognize and support our efforts on the Blitz. Hispresence at national and international building sites and theHabitat for Humanity link on his website are just two examplesof how he has helped use his good name to raise awarenessabout Habitat’s mission and the desperate need for safe,affordable housing. I am honored to be part of the VIP event forthe Merrimack Valley Habitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitzand to meet Steve Thomas and all the participants on that day.

Why have you chosen to participate in this project and haveyou worked with Habitat for Humanity in the past?

I love the concept. I think it’s appalling that affordable housingis so difficult to find. I am glad to play a role in supporting thebuilding of these Habitat homes for these two families.

I used to live on the South Shore and I worked with the BraintreeHabitat for two years. This was during a time when I was single— I owned a catering business — and felt strongly then, as Ido now, that I should give back to the community. I helpedHabitat with fundraising and donations-in-kind for events. I alsoworked at the event on the day that it took place. Earlier thisyear, I received a phone call asking for my help and I wasimmediately re-engaged in the organization.

I live in the Merrimack Valley and have two children anda husband. My husband’s company often sends groups toHabitat jobsites to volunteer.

Tell us about yourself ...

My background has always been in the hospitalityindustry. I started out as a caterer on the SouthShore. I sold that business, got married andmoved North. I took a contract position for ayear with a non-profit company in Boston to runevents. I coordinated a telethon and had somuch fun that I was hooked.

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

There are a couple of places that come tomind. I love the shops on the Riverwalk. I alsolove the Canal Street area.

What home means to me:

I think of my family. I think of the house that myfamily is in and how it is reflective of our tasteand style. Most importantly, the feeling that it issafe and comfortable. A place I can invitepeople over to that is welcoming.

Recommended link:

Read about Steve Thomas and hissupport of Habitat for Humanity here

PHOTOS: BARBARA LYNCH PHOTOGRAPHY

Builders Blitz Logistics Team

Sue AdamsSue Adams Interiors, Lawrence, MA

What will your company be doing for the Merrimack ValleyHabitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2012?

I am working on the Logistics Committee with BarbaraTomkins. The two of us are arranging all the food donationsfor the six days of the Builders Blitz. This includes breakfast,lunch, dinner, beverages and snacks for approximately 40volunteers each day. We will also be coordinating volunteersto be at the food tables during meal times. In addition,Sue Adams Interiors is taking responsibility for the food andvolunteers for Saturday, June 9th. To make this happen, I ampursuing involvement from colleagues, clients, friends, andfamily. I have already started asking people and they are allvery receptive and thrilled to be asked to participate. I amspeaking to people at big and small businesses in Lawrence,North Andover, Andover and surrounding communities.

Why have you chosen to participate in this project and haveyou worked with Habitat for Humanity in the past?

I live in Lawrence and I am glad to have the opportunity togive back to the community. I have volunteered on Habitatbuilding projects in the past. I helped out with the design ofthe layout of the ReStore. I know people on the Board. Allof these facts contributed to my interest in playing a role inthis year’s Builders Blitz. Working with Habitat is a naturaloutgrowth of what I do. I am trying to improve people’slives by changing their environments. This is one of my mainobjectives as an interior designer and it should be some-thing that is accessible to people regardless of their budget.

Before living in Lawrence, I lived in Andover. My current livingsituation is a dramatic change from my prior suburban home.I believe in the Repurpose, Recycle, and Reuse philosophyand now I’m living it! The idea of living in an urban locationin a loft in an old mill building was very appealing.

“Working with Habitat isa natural outgrowth ofwhat I do. I am tryingto improve people’slives by changingtheir environments.This is one of my mainobjectives as aninterior designer and itshould be somethingthat is accessible topeople regardless oftheir budget.”

GREG PREMRU PHOTOGRAPHY

Tell us about yourself ...

I’m married and have a son who is 25. My husbandis in the banking industry. My son is in Atlanta.

I grew up in Newton and went on to major in artat Colby College in Maine. I then opened my owncontemporary home furnishing store in Portland,ME. When I left Maine, I went to work for an interiorscompany that specialized in commercial buildings.Then I worked with Domain. After that, I decided Iwas ready to go out on my own and so I hung outmy shingle. I had both commercial and residentialexperience at that point and have been workingwith both types of customers for the past 20 years.Actually it will be 21 years in August!

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

I like Fisicilli’s Bakery — they have the best maca-roons. One of my favorite spots in Lawrence is inthe evening, when I am on my way home, I turnonto Canal Street and I can enjoy the vista ofthe clock tower and the old mill buildings againstthe western sky, it has a sense of grandeur thatalways touches me. These buildings have storiesto tell. To me, this spot should be considered thegateway to Lawrence, because it is beautiful andshowcases its history and the monuments thatrepresent our industrial heritage. It was the textileindustry that built this city and my father was inthe wool business and sold his products to thecompanies in these buildings.

What home means to me:

Security, safety, comfort. Having my family andloved ones around me.

Habitat is about home and about hope. It givesfamilies the knowledge that they have a chancefor a home and a hope for the future. Peopleare truly poor if they have no hope and Habitatprovides that sense of hope for many people. Notonly for the family that moves in, but I imagine forall their friends and families as well.

Recommended ... fisichellis.com

SUE ADAMS INTERIORS

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Builders Blitz Logistics Team

Barbara TomkinsBeechwood Office Park, North Andover, MA

What will your company be doing for the Merrimack ValleyHabitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2012?

I am serving on the Logistics Committee for the Blitz. We areresponsible for the non-building/non-construction part of theproject. On the Committee, I am working with Sue Adams tosolicit food donations to keep our builders nourished and happyduring this intense project. We are going to local restaurants andother businesses, schools, and community groups for donations.We are also responsible for obtaining volunteers to set, serve, andclean-up the food area. The response has been phenomenal.We usually have to define the Builders Blitz and then peoplerespond very enthusiastically. For example, the Beverly MothersGroup is providing all the food and volunteers for a whole day.

Why have you chosen to participate in this project and haveyou worked with Habitat for Humanity in the past?

I spent a day on an All-Women Build Team at a Habitat site inLawrence about four years ago. My younger brother, who livesin Boxford, went to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina andworked with Habitat International. He came back transformedby the experience. He inspired my daughter to go and hertrip was transformational as well. I also have a connection toLawrence — I was born in Lawrence. My dad is from a familyof Italian immigrants and many of them settled in Lawrence.I remember shopping in Lawrence when I was a kid. Essex Streetwas the place to go for great purchases. I am hoping that therevitalization efforts are successful in returning Lawrence toits former glory. I am glad to help in my small way to make adifference. I am trying to contact other people who rememberLawrence in its heyday. I hope that everyone who hears aboutthe positive things going on now in Lawrence will want toget involved.

“I spent a dayon an All-WomenBuild Team at aHabitat site inLawrence aboutfour years ago.My youngerbrother went toNew Orleans afterHurricane Katrinaand workedwith HabitatInternational.He came backtransformed bythe experience.He inspired mydaughter to goand her trip wastransformationalas well.”

Tell us about yourself ...

I have a daughter who is 30 and a son who is 26 and anotherson who is 16. My third child is so much younger than the othertwo — I am really trying to enjoy every minute.

I work in commercial real estate. I manage buildings located inthe Merrimack Valley. I am one of four siblings, two sisters anda brother. We all still live in the Merrimack Valley area and weraised our kids here (North Andover, Andover, and Boxford). Also,my husband is from Methuen, so his roots are in this area as well.

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

We always get pizza and meat pie at Napoli’s and crispellis fromThe Italian Kitchen. We used to go to Bishop’s for Armenian foodand it was so good. I miss a lot of the old places!

What home means to me:

I think of my kitchen, the heart of the home. That’s where every-thing happens. Food and memories and conversations. I think ofa table and being around it with my family.

Recommended link ...

Habitat for HumanityWomen Build Program

PHOTO COURTESY SUE ADAMS INTERIORS • SHELLY HARRISON PHOTOGRAPHY

Builders Blitz Bronze Donor & Logistics Team

Jason SevinorDesigner Bath & Salem Plumbing SupplyBeverly and Gloucester, MA

What will your company be doing for the Merrimack ValleyHabitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2012?

We are donating all the plumbing fixtures, in partnershipwith American Standard. This includes kitchen and bathroomsinks and faucets, vanities, toilets, mirrors and accessoriesfor the bathrooms (two bathrooms in each home), tub andshower units. Two of our employees,Yvonne Blacker andBeezee Honan, are working on the Logistics Team.

Why have you chosen to participate in this project andhave you worked with Habitat for Humanity in the past?

Yes, we have worked with Habitat on past projects. A bigpart is the positive feeling you get by touching the lives ofothers in a significant way. When the new homeowner getsthe keys to their new home, the expressions on their facesmakes the investment that we have made totally worth it.From 2008 into 2009, we worked on a home on HarrisonStreet in Salem for Habitat. We donated fixtures and Iworked on the job site.

One of the contractors that we work with, Dave West ofMeadowview Construction, brought this opportunity to ourattention and we were intrigued by the Blitz concept. Wealready believed in Habitat’s mission and we wanted tosupport this effort. It’s a good fit for us, because we havesomething to offer. We can be of service because of ourexpertise and contacts.

Tell us about yourself ...

My grandfather started our business in 1945, so I am the thirdgeneration to take the reins of the business. My dad is stillinvolved and his sister, my aunt Dale, works in the showroom,as does my sister, Mindy. I grew up working in the warehouse— cleaning bathrooms, putting stock away, sweeping floors.I was also a plumber’s apprentice for a couple of summers.I went to college in St. Louis and while there, I worked for aplumbing manufacturer’s representative in inside sales. Upongraduation, I worked for another wholesaler/retailer in the

“We have workedwith Habitat on pastprojects. A big partis the positive feelingyou get by touchingthe lives of others ina significant way.”

– Jason Sevinor

“This Builders Blitz projectis all about building.Building relationships.Building community.Building a home fortwo families. Buildinga sense of hope.”

– Beezee Honan

PHOTOS COURTESY AMERICAN STANDARD

industry and was in their management training program. After threeyears, I decided to return home. Initially, I worked in sales and focusedon building relationships with the trade. This evolved into management.On October 8th of 2007, we opened our second location in Gloucester.This is a satellite location that is a parts and supply counter. Interiordesign professionals and residential customers are referred to ourstate-of-the-art showroom in Beverly.

I got married in 2011and recently returned from my honeymoon. Welive in Gloucester. We like to hike and kayak. I also like to go sailing —I learned about five years ago and I love it.

Favorite spot in Lawrence:

Café Azteca

What home means to me:

Family. Safety. Comfort. Relaxation. Peace.

Recommended ... cafe-azteca.com

http://www.howellcustombuild.com/

http://www.coteandfoster.com/Site_4/Home.html

http://premierbuildersinc.net/

http://jsradaptivenergy.com/

http://mvconstruction.com/

Mary E. HonanPRINCIPAL MERRIMACK VALLEY HABITAT FOR HUMANITYBOARD MEMBER

ForMarketingMatters.com 978.794.3052

For Marketing Matters

is proud to support the

2012 Home Builders Blitz

For Marketing Matters - building strong foundations for businesses to drive growth

It all starts with a strong foundation...

“Being good is commendable, but only when it

is combined with doing good is it useful.”

~AUTHOR UNKNOWN

HouseA dwelling place

together with the familythat occupies it.

Home is that place where onelives for a long period.Home. An environment

offering security and happiness.

“A house is madeof walls and beams;

A home is built with love and dreams.”

– author unknown

Poem read by new homeowner Evelyn Corona on thelast day of the Habitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz.

Scrapbook photos courtesy of the Home Builders Blitz team.

Builders Blitz Scrapbook

Tom Grassi

“We can’t meet our mission without this help. It is not ahand out. It’s a hand up.” - Sharon Mason, MV Habitat for Humanity

Builders Blitz Scrapbook

“Leave it better than you found it.” – Bill Foster

Builders Blitz Scrapbook

Tom Grassi

“We appreciate every hour. We are grateful for every per

y person who has touched this house.” – Carla Maldonado

Builders Blitz Scrapbook

Andrew Swaine

Andrew SwaineAndrew Swaine

“We have so much gratitude. Thank you so m

Andrew Swaine

Andrew Swaine

Andrew Swaine

Andrew Swaine

Andrew Swaine

o much for being a part of this.” – Ana Maldonado

Andrew Swaine

Builders Blitz Scrapbook

To watch this Habitat home being built, check out this 5-daytime lapse video produced by Left Eye Creations.

Andrew Swaine

Steve Thomas, international spokesperson for Habitatfor Humanity and former host of “This Old House” and“Renovation Nation” visited the completed BuildersBlitz homes and spoke about what it means to be apart of the Habitat for Humanity family.

> Click here to watch the video.

“We get back more than we put in.” – Steve Thomas

Patrick A. Rogers

Builders Blitz Scrapbook

Andrew Swaine

Patrick A. Rogers

“Continue watching what we are doinghere in the city of Lawrence.”

– Lawrence City Counsilor Mark Laplante

Volunteers from the Lawrence basedstudent run social venture “What’sGood in the Hood” were on-site forthe last day of the Builders Blitz. As agroup, their goal is to shine a light onthe positive side of their community.Photographer Cassandra Charestshares her views on the city ofLawrence later in this issue.

> Read Ricardo Rios’ WGITH articleon the Home Builders Blitz here.

Patrick A. Rogers

After attending a meeting for What's Good in the Hood,a bunch of us ended up walking home. The great thingabout our office is that it is inside a refurbished millbuilding and right in the middle of Lawrence's history.We can literally see everything from that office. Thatclock tower is right across the bridge, so of course Ijust had to capture it. To me, it symbolizes how timein Lawrence has sort of stood still for a while now, butwe've finally gotten it to start to move again.

What I see in LawrenceA P H O T O E S S AY B Y C A S S A N D R A C H A R E S T

Besides the mills,I find the line ofrailroads and tracksto be another definingfeature of the once-industrial empire thecity once was. Eventhough the trains aregone, the tracks stillremain. That's how Ifeel about Lawrence.

The black and white photo of the water towerwas taken at the Reservoir in North Lawrence.My Dad grew up in Lawrence and he drove mearound while describing the rich history. I hadmy camera with me and shot a quick picture ofthe tower, which can be seen from pretty muchanywhere in the city.

Personally, I'm terrified of bridges. As I waswalking across the Merrimack River withGladys, I kind of started freaking out atfirst. Even though it was cold and rainy, theriver had a sort of calm air about it, and Ican't really explain what it was, but I justfelt like capturing that feeling.

The neon-pink flowers weregrowing in someone's frontyard. It was quite the sight.For a good 1/2 mile stretchthere were beaten up carsand apartment complexes andconcrete, and in the middleof all that was a tiny littlehouse with these beautifulflowers outstretched througha white picket fence. Theflowers represent the hope ofthe youth, however small, justlike the team over at WGITH.

With the graffiti photo, we were walkingaround near the South Commons takingpictures of everything. Even though thereis graffiti everywhere, to me it is an artwithin itself and Lawrence is the museum.It was pretty cool that there happened tobe a fence, because it seems like a lotof people feel trapped or like they can'tescape, when that isn't necessarily true.Fences always seem to find their wayinto my work.

There is also this photo of an older couple. Iwasn't trying to hide my camera, and they justcame up and offered to pose for a picture. Nomake up, no fancy clothes, no Crest commercialsmiles. Even like that, I really love this photo. Ithink it truly captures the rawness of Lawrence.You would be hard-pressed to find another citywhich is so welcoming and friendly and will offeritself up without compensation and without caringabout appearances. It's truly something special.

This photo from the top of the Reservoirlooks down at the entire city, and Ithink it's a great location because ofthe view. My parents went on a dateat that very spot and from what theytold me, I knew I had to go thereand see it for myself. It's an entirelydifferent picture when you're seeingLawrence as a whole from the outsiderather than just at street level, whichI think speaks to all the negativemedia surrounding us lately.

Self portrait:Cassandra Charest

Cassandra Charest, who will be asenior at Lawrence High Schoolthis fall, was born in Methuen, MAbefore moving to Lawrence. Sinceshe was a small child, she hasalways had a passion for the arts.Whether it be cooking, painting,sculpting, writing, drawing, orphotography, she takes an interestin anything which allows her toexpress herself freely and withoutboundaries. Having never been ina formal art class, she teachesherself through observation. Shehopes to major in graphic designor conceptual art and/or Englishat an art school in Boston, while stillbeing able to shoot photography.She was approached to write for“What’s Good in the Hood” whenshe was a sophomore, but it wasn’tuntil March of 2012 when she finallyjoined the team as a photographer.She attends most of the eventsand takes pictures to be publishedeither in the magazine or on thewebsite, as well as photos of WGITHitself. She has a fascination with theculture in Lawrence and hopes, withcamera in hand, to be able to givethe city a face other than “damned.”

> Learn more about “What’s Goodin the Hood” on their tumblr site

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My visit began in the Thrift Store under theoperations headquarters of Lazarus HouseIt was mid-week, 10am. Already there was a

line outside and the shop was just opening.As I entered, I caught sight of a sign on thedoor. Beside the store’s hours was an indexcard taped to the window plainly requesting“No Violence Please.”

Lazarus House public relations coordinatorKathie Clark explained that “we see thekind of desperation and heartache thatcan drive people to fight for the things theyneed to sustain their families. But at LazarusHouse we foster an atmosphere of care,restored dignity and self-respect.”

By and large, Lazarus House Ministries is apeaceful and orderly place serving peoplefrom across the Merrimack Valley. Based onthe Christian principle that anyone in needwho knocks on the door will be received,fed, clothed and sheltered, Lazarus House is

Lazarus House: A Lifeline in Lawrencetext Pamela Norman Simoneau photos courtesy Lazarus House

prepared for crisis. Any crisis. From emergency shelterto food and clothing, job training to English languageclasses – Lazarus House can help anyone threatenedby misfortune.

But assistance does not stop there. Lazarus Housetransforms lives by helping people who struggle forsurvival become self-sufficient, productive citizens.And the numbers are staggering. In 2011, LazarusHouse served over 97,000 meals and distributedalmost 53,000 bags of groceries. They provided 9,652shelter bed nights. Volunteers donated more than53,500 hours of service in the same year.The emergencyshelter handed out more than 100 bagged dinners tohungry people – every night. Having witnessed therange of capabilities at Lazarus House, I expressedawe to Executive Director Bridget Shaheen.“We justpass along to others what people have given to us,”she humbly replied.

Those who generously support Lazarus House Ministriesprovide over 78% of the revenue for their annualoperating budget. With less than 1% of the fundscoming from government agencies, the remainderof the operating budget is funded primarily throughtheir social enterprises, as well as limited rental andinterest income. But it’s not enough.

The weekly food pantry usage has grown by 48% inthe last year, and 148% in just two years. In addition,Lazarus House reports that it has been unable toaccommodate close to 2000 people since 2009.

Lazarus Housetransforms livesby helping peoplewho struggle forsurvival becomeself-sufficient,productive citizens.

Food pantry usage has grown by 48% inthe last year, and 148% in just two years.

To continue to serve a growing population offamilies in need, Lazarus House is launching a$5 million campaign to address program efficiencyimprovements and ongoing core service needs.In addition, the campaign will allow the ministryto expand their facilities and improve/maintainexisting ones.

The stories of the people who turn to Lazarus Houseare at once heartwarming and heartbreaking.One teenager lost her entire family in a car accident.She lived at Lazarus House through high schooland considered the residents and workers hernew family. Those who knew her made sure shedidn’t miss any of her high school milestones –like prom, when they all pitched in to buy theyoung woman a suitable dress. Another familyis so grateful for the assistance they receivedduring their time of need that they return tothe Lazarus House food pantry every month todonate a bag of groceries to those currentlyneeding food.

Besides a lifeless economy with few available jobs,fire is often the devastating impetus for hardship.Families arrive at Lazarus House, after a blaze hasdestroyed their home, with no clothes, no shelter,no food,and shell-shocked.Thanks to the emergencyhousing at Lazarus House those families can besure of a clean bed, warm dinner and clothingfor their children.

Most people who arrive at Lazarus House seekingassistance are assigned to an advocate whodetermines how best to help them. The advocateis often the main link between the individual orfamily in need and the necessary supplies, supportand guidance needed to recover from catastrophe.To enter a program here, clients must be free ofsubstance abuse.

“Poverty is a very complexissue.You cannot just addresshunger, or just address home-lessness, or just address jobs.The goal of the entire Ministryis to help a person or familyto move out of poverty.”

– Lazarus House Ministries,Campaign for Dignity 2012

About Hungerand Resiliencephotography exhibit by Michael Nye

Walter J. Manninen Center for the Arts

ENDICOTT COLLEGEHeftler Visiting Artist Gallery376 Hale Street, Beverly MA

Oct. 10th – Nov. 4th, 2012

presented by Gathering Change, Inc.sponsord by Endicott College,

Salem Five Charitable Foundation,The Savings Bank, Cranney Home Services,

and Stop & Shop Supermarkets

– free and open to the public –

Photographer Michael Nye spent morethan four years traveling around the

United States, listening to peoplestruggling with hunger. The result isa moving collection of portraits and

first-person, recorded narratives of theexperience of hunger. “I have been

profoundly inspired by each participant,”he says, “and feel with even greaterconviction that we all need to speak

of how difficult life is for somany in our country.”

For details visit www.gatheringchangeinc.orgwww.endicott.edu or call 978.232.2250

During the random April Wednesday thatI visited the food pantry, Lazarus Housedistributed enough food for 750 familiesof four to eat four meals. They expect toreceive about 1,000 families per week inthe summertime.

“I never ask for food donations,” explainedKen Campbell, food coordinator for theentire food ministry at Lazarus House.“I justexplain what we do and somehow we getenough food every week to stay open. It’sreally a miracle.”

Donations of food come from anywhere –from individuals to corporations, and rangein size from a half bag of groceries to largeshipments. Churches run food drives. Localfarmers donate produce in season. Grocerystores deliver extra pallets of packagedgoods. While food pantries all across theregion have had to close due to lack offood, Lazarus House continues to providethe supplemental food on which familiesdepend to make ends meet. And everyweek enough volunteers show up to helprepackage and distribute the food, ormanage the crowd of customers. Rowsand rows of seated people wait patientlyto be checked in and escorted into thepantry where they “shop” along a fewaisles of prepackaged goods and produce.Back in the stock room, another band ofhelpers is breaking down and clearing outboxes, restocking shelves and kidding witheach other to get out of the way.

Lazarus House is very proud of the toolsthey provide people to help them gain

back their independence. Beyond theimmediate necessities such as foodand shelter and clothing, they teachEnglish as a second language andprovide specific job training skills suchas food preparation and cleaningservices. They offer transitional housingto those with a two-year plan toachieving total independence. Duringtheir stay at Capernaum House, residentsin transitional housing must attend regularmeetings to discuss obstacles andparticipate in life skills training such aslaundry, bill paying, and managing abudget. Together, the residents celebratesuccesses like getting a drivers’ license,a child’s birthday or paying off a bill.Lazarus House reports a 92% successrate for moving families from transitionalapartments to permanent housing.

There is another housing facility as partof the Lazarus “campus” for individualsand families living with someone debili-tated by sickness like HIV/AIDs, diabetesor other medical issues. A social workeris on hand at this facility to insure thatpatients and their families get the sup-port they need from Massachusettsagencies to receive benefits andproper treatment.

> For more information aboutLazarus House Ministries,to volunteer, donate orpledge your support, go towww.lazarushouse.org

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By Pamela Norman Simoneau • Photos courtesy Groundwork Lawrence

Something extraordinary is happening in Lawrence, Massachusetts.

“On every street corner, I see a sign that says ‘Groundwork Lawrence,’”said State Representative Paul Adams.“This group epitomizes thegood things happening in Lawrence.You are transforming this city.”

Literally within hours, teams of volunteers had transformed the NorthCommon of Compagnone Park, and beyond. For over one thousandlocal volunteers, this Earth Day meant an early rise and shine to a dayof group labor. Saturday, April 21, 2012 marked the third anniversaryof the Comcast Cares and Groundwork Lawrence Earth Day part-nership. While the Comcast Cares day has become one of the largestsingle days of Corporate Involvement in America, the Earth DayComcast Cares Day is one of Groundwork Lawrence’s largest events.

Groundwork Lawrence (GWL) is part of a national non-profit organi-zation called Groundwork USA. GWL projects are designed to improvethe quality of air, water and land, increase access to healthy food,and restore local natural resources. This past Earth Day was just oneexample of how GWL and their partners clean up and completebeautification projects throughout Lawrence.

Earth Day 2012: Groundwork Lawrence partners with Comcast Cares f

GETTING IT DONE GRASS R

Thanks to the long standing partnership withComcast, Groundwork Lawrence volunteershad the resources to tackle the Earth Dayspring clean-up. They planted trees andshrubs, cleaned playgrounds, built schoolyardgardens and painted areas in the Commons.Even a high-powered bobcat loader made anappearance to help dig holes for trees. But notjust in the Common – where 25 trees wereplanted – by 9am volunteers had scatteredacross the city by bus, by car, on foot, on bikes,pushing strollers and wheelbarrows filled withtools, supplies and work gloves.

Groups of workers fanned out to predeter-mined sites such as Jaques Pond, LHS Garden,the Arlington School and Riverfront State Park.Others dug into Storrow Park, the ShawsheenRiver Trail and the Spicket River Greenway, toname a few locations. Representative Adamstraded pen for paintbrush for the day to helprefresh sections of the South Common.

Above: John Fouhy of Comcast and hiswife Patty joined over 1,000 Comcastemployees, family members and Lawrenceresidents to clean up and landscape theLawrence Commons in partnership withGroundwork Lawrence as part of the11th annual Comcast Cares Day. Morethan 67,000 volunteers participated inthis day of service around the country.

Below: State Rep. Paul Adams of Lawrence

for their 3rd Annual Spring Clean Up

ROOTS STYLE

The City was in full support of Groundwork Lawrence’s Earth Day efforts.They provided free parking around the Common and sent the Departmentof Public Works on rounds to the worksites throughout the day to collectgarbage. Area businesses provided free breakfast, lunch, T-shirts, resources,laborers and tools to ensure a successful effort.

But the good works didn’t end – or even begin – there. The Lawrencebranch of Groundwork USA is the largest in a network of 39 states. For overa decade, GWL has been actively changing Lawrence’s literal and figurativelandscape. From youth education and employment programs to communityfood programs to environmental improvement projects, GWL has sourcedand committed millions of dollars in grants and donations to revitalizethis community.

Among their most notable projects aimed at making the City’s outdoorspaces safe, accessible, and attractive, is the Spicket River RevitalizationProject. With Massachusetts EPA and National Park Service grants, GWL iscreating a network of open spaces along the river which will include aButterfly Garden and an outdoor classroom area along the 2.5 miles ofgreenway. This revitalization project began a few years ago with theremoval of 100 tons of debris and 2,000 abandoned tires. GWL addressedthe river’s chronic flooding, and helped to end decades of illegal dumpingand polluting.

By actively involving the youth of Lawrence, GWL hopes to secure stewardshipof the community’s green spaces for generations to come. Local highschool students may apply for part-time, paid employment on the GWL

Green Team. Thisyear-round programchallenges ten youngadults to lead localenvironmental andhealthy communityinitiatives. At the middleschool level, participantsin the Summer Stewardsprogram learn to plantand maintain vegetablegardens and cookhealthy meals fromtheir harvest.

Throughout the summerand fall, GWL also runs a Farmers’ Market in downtown Lawrence and offersa community supported agriculture (CSA) program where residents pick upa box of farm-fresh, seasonal produce each week. GWL will subsidize theprice of CSA shares for families in need.

> For more information on Groundwork Lawrence, or to jointheir ongoing efforts, go to www.groundworklawrence.org

http://www.beechwoodofficepark.com/

A potted orchid will lastmonths longer than a cutbouquet and will add instantdesigner style to any room.

- editor’s pick

yvonne blacker

FOR LESSBUDGET-FRIENDLY TIPS FROM

NEW ENGLAND DESIGN, FASHION,

AND HOME ORGANIZING PROS

Hillary Adams Case Michelle Cortizo Susan Kanoff

Vani Sayeed Diana Vertus Cecilia Walker

Designer Style

Tip #2Don’t let a small budget prevent you frominvesting in quality pieces. Remember to visityour local consignment shop for hiddentreasures at a low cost. This 100% wool rugwas purchased for less than $200.00 and hasa permanent home at my front door.

Michelle CortizoCORTIZO INTERIORS

Tip #1Enhance the wayyou live by editingrelentlessly andpracticing restraint.Less is always the keyto maximizing theimportance of whatyou really love!

photo credit: Jenny Nourse

Michelle Cortizo is an interiordesigner based just south of Boston.

cortizointeriors.com

Budget Makeover I had $100.00 to spruce up abath vanity area. The sconces were $29.00 each.The paper (2) sheets at $8.00 a piece from PaperSource. The ModPodge just $7.95 Total $81.95

> Click here to read Michelle’s design blog

Tip #3The bathroom wallwas painted with ametallic silver paint –an inexpensive wayto get the look ofpaper without thepotential peelinga moist environmentlike a bathroomcould cause.

photos courtesy Michelle Cortizo

I love to scour Brimfield for unique, one-of-a-kind pieces for the home. My first shopping tripto Brimfield was almost fifteen years ago. As anewlywed on a limited budget, I was in searchof furniture and décor for our first home.

Three houses and four children later, the itemsI’ve acquired from Brimfield are some of myfavorite things that I own – they make mehappy. Over the years my style has changed,and even so, my Brimfield finds have stood thetest of time and have fit within the differentaesthetics as our homes evolved.

Here are some of my favorite flea market tips:

• Simple objects arranged in groupings ofmultiples are visually appealing when thereis repetition of color, shape or materials.

• Keep in mind, the rule of three – displayingthings in “threes” or odd numbers keeps theeye moving and creates balance.

• Simple found objects – like the blue bottles,mason jars, and tin buckets that I found atBrimfield – are great items that add color andfunction with a vintage feel, fairly inexpensively.

• Wall art doesn’t have to come from an artgallery.You can frame negative space orfind original art at flea markets.

> Click here to read Cecilia’s design blog

Cecilia WalkerCECIL IA WALKER DESIGN

photo credit: Kerry Brett

Cecilia Walker is a Boston area interiordesigner. Look for her space in theJunior League of Boston 2012 Showhousein Newton, Massachusetts this October.

ceciliawalkerdesign.com

Sheila Igoephotos courtesy Cecilia Walker

The cobalt blue glass bottles are a beautiful color andwould look great on a window sill, mantle or bookshelf.They are also functional and can be used as vaseswith a single flower.

The glass mason jars are so versatile and canserve many functions. Use as a dining table

centerpiece, in a grouping of three, filled withfresh-cut flowers, or votives for candlelight. In

an office or craft room to hold paper clips,pencils, or safety pins and buttons. Or in a

bathroom, holding Q-tips and cotton balls.

The tin bucketscan be used asflower pots, orused anywhere forstorage. Displayedon a shelf, with labelstied with twine, bulkyitems or clutter canbe hidden inside,while the tin materialadds patina andwarmth to the room.

Original work of art for jusf $35: oil on panel

My Brimfield shopping partner, graphic designer,Sheila Igoe of IgoeCreative, spotted these frames.

Hang them in a grouping on a wall (as is, withoutanything inside) to create an interesting focalpoint, fill them with corkboard or wire mesh to

convert them to functional bulletin boards,or repurpose them and add a mirror.

• Color changes everything ... refresh a tiredroom by adding a splash of color with anaccent wall, coat of fresh paint, or stripes.

• Every chair needs a small drinks table to resta cup or glass. Try using unusual pieces offurniture or unique antiques for this purpose.

• One pair of pillows always looks skimpy.Use at least two pairs, in contrastingpatterns, colors, and textures.

• Use of unique textiles can add a punchin an otherwise understated room.

• Play with texture. Something as simple andluxurious as a cashmere throw on leathergives a beautiful play of textures.

• Create an interesting corner by using a boldcolor, texture and words

• Sustainable and synthetic rattan is easyto maintain. Use it all year round from thebreakfast nook to the patio (hand-crafted,stylish outdoor furniture is timeless).

• When shopping for the proportionatechandelier over a dining table, rememberit’s more important to size the chandelierto the table than the room. A good ruleof thumb is to make sure your chandelier isone-half to three-quarters the width of yourtable. For the right hanging height, positionthe bottom of the chandelier about 30-32inches above the table, adjusting to workwith the size of the table and the overallscale of your space.

Vani SayeedVANI SAYEED STUDIOS

photo credit: Peggy Stander

Vani Sayeed is a Newton, MA basedinterior designer and artist. Look forher work in the upcoming BostonMagazine Design Home, Oct. 2012.

vanisayeedstudios.com

• Design tip for a small space:mix low and tall furniture.Youwon’t feel boxed in. Punctuatethe space with verticals.

• I love an antiqued mirror andhow it can expand a space ...a trick that goes back to 16thcentury Venice.

• Some plants have aromaticleaves ... herbs such as rosemary,lavender, mint, thyme and sagebring a lovely fragrance to yourgarden or inside your home.Outside, the foliage may needto be brushed or heated bythe sun before the fragrant oilsare released.

• Simple branches of buddingblooms and curling leaves willbrighten any space.

• Bring the outside in: like a livingsculpture, terrariums provide atouch of green, are inexpensive,and easy to maintain.

• Wash your windows ... let yourgaze travel out. Don’t let youreye stop at a dirty window.

> Check out Vani’s portfolio here

Peggy Stander

Dressing like a million bucks doesn’t have to cost afortune. With so many ways to find fabulous deals, it’seasy to put together beautiful outfits on a shoe-stringbudget. Here are some of my tips for looking greatwithout breaking the bank.

• Start out with a core wardrobe consisting of basictimeless pieces that can be mixed and matched thatwill last for years. My recommendations for “essential”pieces are a little black dress, dark wash jeans, trenchcoat, black trousers, pencil skirt, silk blouse and fabuloussuit. Having these basics in your closet will give youthe foundation for a great wardrobe.

• Accessorize! Accessorizing is an inexpensive way tocreate a million and one outfits. Some “must have”pieces to add to your collection are a statementnecklace, cocktail ring, fabulous scarf, pendantnecklace, men’s-style watch, hoop earrings, fun beltand a great clutch (love a bright color). Having awide assortment of accessories will help you maximizeyour wardrobe and wear your clothes in different ways.My favorite places to find inexpensive accessoriesare Baubles and Lace in Andover, Francesca’s (atthe malls) and in the J. Crew and Banana Republicbargain bins.

• Shop your closet. Do you have a closet full of clothesbut nothing to wear? Before you hit the stores, takeinventory of your wardrobe.You’ll be surprised at howmany clothes you have forgotten about! Enlist thehelp of a friend or wardrobe consultant to help youcreate new outfits out of existing pieces.

• Go directly to the sale rack. Everything eventually goeson sale. Unless you can’t live without that fabulouspiece, bypass the full-priced racks and hit clearancefirst. Some of the deals out there are amazing (evenat the higher end stores). One word of caution though… don’t buy JUST because it’s on sale! It isn’t a bargainif you don’t need it.

• Consignment shop. Upscale consignment shops arepopping up all over the place. Take some time to

Susan KanoffA GREAT NEW LOOK

photo credit: Linda Holt

Susan Kanoff is a fashion coachand wardrobe consultant basedout of the Merrimack Valley area.

agreatnewlook.com

Adrianna Papell dress at Marshalls for $39.99photo courtesy Susan Kanoff

map out all the great second-hand stores inyour area and do some treasure hunting.Youcan find remarkable deals on gently wornpieces ranging from Ann Taylor to Armani!A few of my favorite local boutiques areMadison Ave of Melrose (Melrose, MA) andChic Consignment Closet (Andover, MA).Don’t forget that you can also make extramoney off your unwanted clothes andaccessories by consigning!

• Negotiate. In this tough economic climate thereis more room than ever to negotiate. Don’t beafraid to ask the store owner if he/she will takeless than the stated price.You’ll be surprised athow much you can save this way!

• Ask about retail discounts. Many stores offerspecial discounts to students, teachers, seniorsand even AAA members!

• Get on your favorite stores’ e-mail lists This wayyou’ll be kept updated of the store’s sales andpromotions. Before you shop always Google thestore’s name and the word coupons.You’ll beastonished at how many discount codes andcoupons will pop up, saving you money atthe register!

• Keep your receipts. Many stores offer a priceadjustment period of 7-14 days. If the price ofyour purchase has dropped during that time,you will receive a credit for the difference.

• Don’t buy orphans. By this I mean those piecesthat won’t match anything in your closet. If youdon’t have something to wear it with, don’t buy it.

• Understand the store’s return policy. Don’t buyunless you are informed of the store’s returnpolicy. Many small boutiques have a shortwindow of time for returns and will only offerstore credit.

• Don’t discount the discount stores! Target andForever21 are a few of my favorite stores to findtrendy and inexpensive bags and accessories.Why spend a lot on a piece that may not be instyle next season when you can get the lookfor less?

> For more fashion tips, visit Susan’s blog

photo credit: Linda Holt

Here are a few tips to decorating an exquisite yeteasy and affordable table setting for any occasion.

Stick to the basicsI highly recommend every household to have a setof six or more good quality all-white dinnerware setand serving platter pieces. Use different shapedplates to add a modern twist to the traditionalround china normally used.

It’s OK to mix and matchLayering colorful or patterned appetizer plates arethe perfect way to brighten up a solid coloredplate. A splash of color makes a big difference andcan change the look of a table setting.

Play with patternAdd exquisite details, textures, colors, and patternsto your tabletop design. Bold patterned linenscan be enhanced with solid textured napkins andpatterned dishes to add depth to your tabletop.

Diana VertusEXQUIS ITE DESIGN CONCEPTS

photo credit: Joanna Petit-Frere

Diana Vertus is the owner of ExquisiteDesign Concepts, a boutique specialevents design and production firmand President of @FemCityBoston-Femfessionals, LLC

exquisitedesignconcepts.com

Mix it upMix and match assorted glassware. Use tumblers and stemware in varyingheights and contrasting colors to create levels that add interest (up to amaximum of three).

Keep it stress-freeWhen entertaining remember to keep it simple, stylish, and stress-free.Youdon’t need to have a lot of money nor expensive dishes to make your tablelook elegant and wow your guests. By adding finishing touches that infuseyour personality and incorporating objects you already own, it is easy tocreate a personal and memorable moment for you and your guests.

> To keep up with Diana, follow her on twitter

photos courtesy Diana Vertus

Creating a Welcoming Space to Share With FriendsBeing organized and developing daily systems todeal with clutter makes presenting your home toothers easy. When you are organized, inviting peopleover on a whim can be stress free.Your home is areflection of you, a place to display photos of familyand artwork done by the kids. Sharing your homewith others gives the opportunity to display this partof your life that cannot be seen elsewhere. Take alook at the following three scenarios. Do any of themresonate with you?

Does this sound like you?You’ve made it to the end of a long work week andyou’d like to have a relaxing evening with somefriends at your home. The problem: inviting guestsover would require significant prep work. There isnowhere to sit in the living room. The week’s mail hasbeen piled on the kitchen table. Clothing is every-where except in the hamper.Your home is hardlya place you want to bring people to entertain. Somuch for spending time with friends. Having organi-zational systems in place for the laundry and mailwould have alleviated this dilemma.

Or does this sound like you?You’ve been on a few dates with a guy you reallylike. When dropping you off at home one night heasks,“May I come in for a cup of coffee?”Your heartjumps a few beats while you attempt to collect yourwords.Your problem: your home is scattered withpaperwork, dirty dishes and the shoes on the floorare definite tripping hazards.You think,“If he sees myplace there would be no hope for another date.”Instead of enjoying his company in your home youmake up some lame excuse about how you have toget to bed early and call it a night. Now you endyour evening with anger and frustration rather thanbutterflies and rainbows. Again, having a few simpleorganizational systems would have made inviting aguest in stress free.

Hillary Adams CaseL IVING PEACE

photo credit: Heather Rogers

Hillary Adams Case is a professionalorganizer with Massachusetts basedLiving Peace.

living-peace.com

Or does this sound like you?You’re at the park with your children socializing with someother moms while the children play happily. Suddenly,heavy rain starts and everyone is scrambling to get undercover. Another mother says,“You live across the street –can we go to your house until the storm passes?” Yourproblem: the house is covered with toys, laundry and youdidn’t pick up the breakfast dishes (or the dinner dishesfrom last night ... ) and your home is hardly a place youwant these moms to see.You think, they will never let yourkids play with theirs again! Just imagine how great itwould have been to have been able to invite thosefriends in and have the other mothers comment on yourcreative organizational systems.

This could be you!Your home is full of useful systems todeal with the normal clutter of life.Youare able to take advantage of thosespur of the moment opportunities.Youtake pride in your space. If you needsome help getting there, call us!

Three tips to help stay organized:

1. Delegate responsibilities amongfamily member whenever possibleto lighten your load.

2. Keep a recycling container rightwhere you open your mail. This willhelp ensure envelopes and junkmail don’t clutter your world.

3. Schedule time for clean-up.Set a timer for 15 or 30 minutesand allow yourself to stop whenthe timer goes off.

> Find Hillary online here

BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER

AFTER

photos courtesy Hillary Adams Case

Trans-Ocean Ravella Crochet AquaIndoor / Outdoor Rug 5' x 7'6" $279.00

UMA EnterprisesRustic Universal

Metal Wall Décor$97.99

Kichler The New Informality16.5" Hammered Bronze

Round Table Lamp $72.00

Inhabit Reef Throw Pillowin Moss $58.00

IMAX 3 Piece Round Luster Canister Setin Green $109.99

EDITOR’S PICKSDecorate your home-sweet-home for lesswith these moderately priced picks thatrange from around $30 to just under $280.*These on-trend items from Wayfair.com,an online home and garden shoppingmecca, will add designer style withoutbreaking the bank. *prices and availability may vary

> Read about Wayair’s partnershipwith Habitat for Humanity here

Welcome Home

Company C Zoe Pillow $98.00

IMAX Colony Globe $32.99

Inhabit Change Your Life Pillowin Rust from $58.00

Greendale Home FashionsToss Zig Zag Pillows in Village

Green (Set of 2) $32.99

Wolf Designs Inc.1970 CollectionDiva Trinket Box

from $60.00 AspireWood InlayFloor Vase

$68.99

Oriental FurnitureRush Grass CoffeeTable/Ottoman in

Natural $108.00

> Shop Wayfair

Sterling IndustriesVintage Chinese Apothecary Jar

Clear (Set of 2) $78.00

IMAX Mango Wood Candlesticks(Set of 3) $101.20

There’s noplace like

HOMEWe support the magic behind

Habitat for Humanity:making wishes come true.

Thoughtful Design. Flawless Execution.

To support future effortsof Merrimack Valley

Habitat for Humanity,place your ad here.

Click here for ouronline media kit.

Congratulations to Habitat for Humanity’s

Home Builders Blitz 2012!

T 617.768.7078T 978.475.3567F 978.475.0577info@sueadamsinteriors.comBoston Andover Gloucester

SUE ADAMS INTERIORS

Thank you to the numerous volunteers– construction and non-construction –

who donated their time, materials,and expertise to help build homes forthe Corona and Maldonado familiesduring the Home Builders Blitz 2012.

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Andrew SteingiserARCHITECTURE