Latest news with #Vineyard
Fox News
28-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Fox News
Wayfair's Fourth of July sale: Up to 70% off summer outdoor essentials and more
Wayfair's Fourth of July clearance event is here, and it's the perfect time to grab everything you'll want for the rest of the summer! The sale features deals on outdoor party essentials, including grills – a must-have for any Independence Day celebration – and savings on patio furniture. Explore our comprehensive grill guide to find the best one for your needs. You'll also find great prices on classic yard games, such as cornhole and lawn bowling. As well as savings on indoor furniture and decor. Original price: $820 The Vineyard three-piece rocking set offers classic comfort and effortless style for your outdoor space. This durable set includes two rocking chairs and a coordinating side table, all crafted from weather-resistant polywood lumber. Original price: $75.89 Enjoy generous sun coverage with the Arlmont & Co. Bruton 108-inch patio outdoor market umbrella featuring a crank lift. This large market umbrella offers ample coverage, making it perfect for dining sets or lounge areas. Original price: $290.40 The Birch Lane Iago outdoor umbrella brings timeless style and essential shade to your patio or deck. This classic market umbrella features scalloped edges and is easy to operate. Original price: $389.99 The Alcott Hill Chestnut Street three-piece bistro set features two comfortable chairs and a stylish round table crafted from rust-resistant cast aluminum for lasting outdoor enjoyment. The set features a handy built-in ice bucket on the table. Original price: $399 The Costway Outdoor Wicker Chaise Lounge features a durable wicker design with an adjustable backrest, allowing you to recline comfortably. It includes a soft cushion and an extra lumbar pillow to keep you comfortable. Original price: $289.80 The Fleur De Lis Living Carennac powder-coated aluminum outdoor bench is crafted from durable, rust-resistant aluminum with a powder-coated finish. This charming bench features intricate backrest details, adding a touch of classic style to any outdoor setting. Original price: $2,840 The Winston Porter rectangular dining set with cushions is crafted from weather-resistant acacia wood and features a rich, dark brown finish, providing a stylish and durable dining option. This set seats six, featuring an extendable table and plush, comfortable cushions. While it's not technically part of Wayfair's Fourth of July event, we think it's a great deal. Original price: $838 Add this fun wicker rattan patio swing chair to your home for a comfy place to spend summer days. The chair comes with a sturdy powder-coated steel frame and hanging chain. It is weather and UV resistant. Original price: $289.99 The Madison Park Signature wood nightstand blends classic charm with practical storage. It features elegant turned spindle legs for a vintage-inspired look. Original price: $396 The Kelly Clarkson Home Maddie bed is made from durable metal with an elegant off-white finish, featuring prominent spindle detailing throughout. This platform bed is designed for use without a box spring. Original price: $384 The Sand & Stable Hertford mid-century accent chair is made with a durable, kiln-dried solid wood frame and splayed legs. It features comfortable linen-blend upholstery and includes an extra pillow for added support and a curated look. Original price: $199.99 The Bay Isle Home Cerina Boho Natural Rattan Shoe Storage Cabinet features adjustable interior shelves for storing up to 12 pairs of shoes, as well as a convenient top drawer for small essentials, helping to keep your home tidy and chic. Original price: $891 The Mack & Milo Abingdon upholstered swivel reclining glider combines smooth gliding, gentle rocking, and a complete recline function, all while allowing you to swivel 360 degrees. Original price: $819 Grab a great deal on Wayfair's Sleep 14-inch plush cooling gel hybrid mattress. This mattress combines the pressure-relieving comfort of gel-infused memory foam with the classic support of individually-wrapped coils, creating a plush yet supportive feel. It is designed with cooling technology and breathable construction to help dissipate heat and minimize motion transfer. Original price: $719.96 The Mercury Row Hegg platform bed features a generously tufted headboard upholstered in soft, light beige linen, adding a touch of modern elegance. It includes sturdy wood slats, eliminating the need for a box spring while providing excellent mattress support. Original price: $680 This propane gas grill features four main burners for powerful grilling, plus a convenient side burner perfect for preparing sauces or sides. With its ample cooking space and functional design, this propane grill is ideal for everything from everyday meals to backyard entertaining. Original price: $108.99 This outdoor pizza oven is crafted from durable stainless steel. It uses wood as fuel to reach high temperatures quickly, ensuring a perfectly crispy crust and delicious, evenly cooked pizzas in minutes. Original price: $189.99 The Royal Gourmet barrel charcoal grill with side shelves boasts a generous cooking surface ideal for backyard BBQs, as well as convenient side shelves for prep space and tool storage. Its durable design and ample capacity make it perfect for cooking for a crowd. Original price: $249.99 The Charbroil American Gourmet 360 Classic Series compact propane gas grill features three main burners providing ample cooking power, along with a compact design that fits well on patios or balconies. This propane gas grill offers straightforward performance for preparing your favorite BBQ meals with ease. Original price: $168.99 The GoSports solid wood cornhole set includes two regulation-size boards crafted from solid wood, providing an authentic and durable playing experience. The set comes complete with a carrying case. Original price: $428.99 The Topbuy jumbo four-to-score giant game set is the oversized version of the classic Connect-Four game. This set is crafted from durable, weather-resistant materials, perfect for backyard parties, barbecues, or beach days. Original price: $32.95 Trademark Games' Coca-Cola bowling set features bowling pins and a ball adorned with the iconic Coca-Cola logo and colors. For more Deals, visit Original price: $169.99 Outfit your garden with a supersized version of Jenga. This set features large, precision-crafted hardwood blocks that stack to impressive heights. It includes a convenient orange carrying case, making it easy to transport and set up.
Otago Daily Times
24-06-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
NZ chardonnay going from strength to strength
I can't but help feeling (after tasting these wines amidst a bigger grouping) that Chardonnay in New Zealand is going from strength to strength. The lineup of ten wines scored consistently highly, were an absolute pleasure to taste and equally importantly, I'd simply love to drink any of them. Moreover, while prices are following the pattern of everything else and creeping up, they still remain remarkably affordable for their quality. While this group covers South Island regions, I've bought some marvellous wines from Martinborough and Hawke's Bay recently which just reinforce the level of quality that you find across the country. 2023 Riverby Estate Single Vineyard Marlborough Chardonnay RRP $28 Price Rating Excellent Nicely expressive nose, no doubt to the variety. Peach, nutty aspects, light oak seasoning, a flinty touch, fresh and appealing. There's a fine, almost grainy feel that just adds to the texture, cracking flavour depth with zestiness on the close leading to a delightfully fresh finish. Already drinking really well, but I feel there's more gas in the tank for the future too. 2022 Isabel Estate Wild Barrique Wairau Valley Chardonnay RRP $39.99 Price Rating Outstanding Distinctive wild yeast component initially, struck match, gunflint, peach and clotted cream developing, grilled nuts, spices, stony mineral, complex. Wonderful depth and while the nose suggests fatiness this has elegance and finesse. Great structure, super balance, wonderful carry, actually rather classy. Now a little orange zest, the wild yeast notes part, so much going on here. 2023 Riverby Estate Single Vineyard Old Vines Reserve Marlborough Chardonnay RRP $36 Price Rating Excellent to Outstanding Nose leaps out with caramel, full cream, oak spices, the ripe fruit perfectly pitched in support. Grip and chewiness to the texture, youthful and reminding you of its potential, time in the cellar will be a friend but already approachable as it manages that combination of balance, flavour depth, yet without anything overstated or out of place. Confident, elegant, cracking wine. 2022 Pegasus Bay Chardonnay RRP $45 Price Rating Excellent to Outstanding So much happening on the nose, wild yeast match and gunflint, honeyed aspects, spices, ripe peach, that flinty note turning mineral. Some toasty char leads the palate, peach, nectarine, bright lemony citrus, exuding quiet richness and depth. Power matched by brightness, fresh, vital, a lovely each way bet to enjoy now or tuck in the cellar. You can easily reach for another glass. 2023 Carrick Organic Bannockburn Chardonnay RRP $39 Price Rating Excellent No doubting the variety. Youthful, fresh, white peach, oak spices, a smoky nuance, fragrance swelling, with time a little earthy/ humus note adds to the complexity. Again on the palate that peach and spiciness clear to see, full of flavour yet a sense of freshness too with good structure and acid backbone keeping this nicely on point. Likely to reward the cellar yet it is drinking so well now. 2021 Pegasus Bay Virtuoso Chardonnay RRP $67 Price Rating Outstanding Exuberant nose jumps out to greet you. Gunflint, struck match, warm baguette, ripe peach, toffee apple, so engaging and complex. Power and wonderful depth of flavour without ever feeling heavy. Dances in the mouth, vibrancy and liveliness, now picking up a hint of licorice, though it's pointless divining the parts as it's all about balance, integration and the sheer completeness of this. Crackingly good.
Yahoo
22-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Vineyard failed to report ‘substantial' transactions, state auditor finds
VINEYARD — The State Auditor's Office released a report Thursday detailing Vineyard's failure to report 'substantial' transactions, totaling more than $35 million in the last four years. 'This was my most requested audit across the state, and that's saying something. I get a lot of requests for different reviews, but it was a consistent request for Vineyard,' State Auditor Tina Cannon told The auditor's office completed a limited review of financial transactions and contractual agreements related to Vineyard's Redevelopment Agency from January 2018 to March 2025. The Redevelopment Agency is a separate legal entity from the city, but the City Council runs the agency board, and the agency reports financial activities as part of the city. The audit was limited in scope to specific concerns that had been raised on financial transaction reporting and disclosures, and governance of the Redevelopment Agency. 'The problems that are happening in Vineyard are a real lack of public trust over what is going on. The solution to a lack of public trust is more transparency, not less,' Cannon said. 'If you have nothing to hide, hide nothing.' Vineyard Mayor Julie Fullmer said she appreciates the auditor's feedback and takes 'all concerns raised seriously and remains committed to addressing areas where processes or communications can be strengthened.' She told the City Council will be formalizing new city policies using the guidance from the auditor's office in the next council meeting on Wednesday, June 25. State code requires city entities to post financial transactions of public funds on the Transparent Utah website so it is publicly available for inspection. The auditor's office compared the city's general ledger from 2018 on and found transactions from each period had not been included on Transparent Utah but were in the city's accounting system. 'Transactions omitted include substantial payments to developers from the (Redevelopment Agency). This could raise public suspicions that those payments were intentionally hidden,' the audit report states. 'This is the first review of 'OK, did you report everything that you did?' And the answer was 'no,'' Cannon said. After the auditor's office requested in May that the city replace the transparency information uploaded for all the years in question, the city complied, and the new transaction records matched the general ledger. According to numbers given to from the State Auditor's Office, there was approximately a $17.5 million difference in 2022 from what the city initially reported to Transparent Utah compared to the updated numbers that matched the ledger. Another $7.3 million, $8.1 million and $2.4 million difference was reported for 2023, 2024 and 2025 respectively. Fullmer said the discrepancy came from the city uploading quarterly revenue-and-expense reports that were not replaced with full-year files after the end-of-year deadline. 'Prior to our discussions with the State Auditor's Office, we were unaware that quarterly transparency reports could or should be deleted and replaced with a comprehensive annual report once the financial statements were finalized. While this resulted in incomplete reporting, all required reports were submitted on time and in good faith by city staff,' the city's response in the report says. The audit report states incomplete information was being submitted by Vineyard even though the 'criterion is clearly established in both Utah statute and administrative code.' The auditor recommends the city adapt a policy of replacing information uploaded to the public finance website if additional transactions occur after the file was submitted. Since redevelopment agencies use tax increment financing, the vast majority of the tax funds are originally imposed for educational purposes, Cannon said. 'So you are moving money away from education for the children of Vineyard and then you are using it on other items,' Cannon said. 'When you won't tell people what you did, it leads to mistrust that you did something you shouldn't have done.' According to the audit's second finding, Vineyard's taxing entity committee for the Redevelopment Agency has not met since 2011. The city cited Utah Code, saying the committee required a 'a series of one-time actions' that were accomplished in 2011, fulfilling the committee's 'primary purpose.' Since then, the city has submitted annual reports to taxing entities, replacing the need to meet annually, Fullmer said. 'Failure to ensure all taxing entities actively participate creates public concerns about the legality of Vineyard's Redevelopment Agency actions. In addition, citizens are not able to obtain information regarding the use of funds from the government entity that levied the tax,' the audit report states. Councilman Jacob Holdaway said not holding the meetings is 'so wrong' and 'goes behind their backs.' While the Redevelopment Agency started with a 'noble' purpose of using property taxes to clean up the steel mill site, the agency has been 'circumventing' the taxing entities, effectively eliminating oversight on the funds, he alleges. 'You can't just not have oversight — it's like a city not being responsive to the state,' he said. 'I feel horrible. I feel like we have stolen from Alpine School District taxpayers, but it's legal.' Holdaway claims the city went even further to cement the lack of oversight by lobbying in 2020 for SB158, which exempts the Vineyard agency from having to obtain approval from taxing entities on extending funds. He says spending has 'ballooned' since that bill was passed, using money meant for schools on 'questionable government projects.' 'Our city government deliberately chose secrecy over accountability,' he said. 'We fix it by being honest ... by standing up together for the kind of government that treats taxpayer money with the respect it deserves.' Fullmer said even though the committee has not met, the city's annual reports to the taxing entities notify the committee of what funds have been used each year, and those reports are publicly available. 'The city has published its reports timely, and neither the city or the (redevelopment agency) have received any concerns from taxing entities about the level of informational engagement,' the city said in the audit report. The report's third finding determined the city failed to disclose footnote information on financial statements regarding tax abatements. The city responded saying it would update its policy. In a cover letter sent to the auditor's office but not included in the report, Fullmer claims several of the issues in the audit arose from just one member of the council and that the member received information from the audit's management letter prior to it being formally distributed to the City Council. Cannon said no documents were leaked, as that is a 'fireable offense.' 'It's not rocket science to determine who had the information. If the person that expressed the concerns knows we are doing a review, he knows what we're going to find and would be privy to that information. It's not hard to determine he knew, but it didn't come from our office,' Cannon said. While not named in the mayor's letter, Holdaway has been a staunch opponent of Fullmer since taking office in 2023. He has frequently pushed back on council issues regarding financials and transparency, gotten in heated discussions in City Council meetings, and is leading a referendum on a bond vote. He told he did go to the State Auditor's Office with a request for an audit. 'My entire board and mayor has been telling me that I'm crazy and that I'm a liar,' Holdaway said. 'The findings yesterday, it's like, I couldn't believe that you would even do this.' The findings highlighted 'technical compliance items and transparency opportunities' and provides the city a 'constructive opportunity to enhance already-strong systems of fiscal stewardship and public engagement,' the mayor said. 'Vineyard city works diligently to ensure transparency, accountability, and integrity in every aspect of our financial operations,' Fullmer said. 'We are pleased that the state auditor's review found no evidence of misuse or mismanagement of public funds. We agree with the helpful auditor's recommendations, have already implemented them, and view them as a valuable opportunity to further strengthen our systems of transparency and public engagement,' the mayor said. Cannon, however, said Fullmer praising that no misuses of taxpayer funds were found is 'at best, premature, and at worst, it's misleading.' 'That's like celebrating that we did not find what we were not looking for. This was a very limited audit to determine what was spent and was it reported correctly. Our office has the purview to determine if it was legally spent ... Whether or not it was ethically spent is up for the public to decide,' Cannon said. Cannon said she could not confirm if there will be additional audits into Vineyard.
Yahoo
23-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Utah City development to celebrate Arbor Day by planting 1,000 trees to emphasize sustainability
Utah County development is planting 1,000 trees to celebrate Arbor Day and kick off the sustainable, walking community. The tree planting is a 'major milestone' in the first phase of the 700-acre mixed-use development off the eastern shore of Utah Lake, a statement from Utah City said. The development aims to be a walkable, transit-oriented 'urban core' of Utah County. The tree-planting ceremony is part of the 'Greening of Utah City' initiative to make the development sustainable. It will start at 4 p.m. Friday at a Utah City development site just west of where Vineyard Connector crosses Main Street. Vineyard officials, Utah City leadership, an arborist and a Utah Valley University professor will be speaking at the event about the role landscaping plays in a community and the local ecosystem. 'Planting trees is just one example of the long-term, enduring approach we're taking to building Utah City,' said Nate Hutchinson, co-managing partner for Flagship Homes, one of Utah City's developers. Utah City partnered with a UVU conservation biology class to select native plant palettes for the development's green spaces. The plant choices emulate native plant diversity of different ecosystems, from alpine and foothills plant communities to riparian lake habitat. 'As plans for the Utah City green spaces evolve, we are excited to see what native plants will grace these spaces,' said UVU biology professor Ashley Egan. 'To have contributed to this effort through community-engaged learning and partnerships has been very exciting for me and my students and we look forward to seeing it all come to life.' The landscaping will provide shade, promote biodiversity and create a 'strong visual identity' for the area, while rebuilding natural habitats to increase climate resilience and long-term environmental health, Utah City said. Landscaping will include a mix of drought-tolerant and pollinator- friendly species, such as ruby sunset maples, emerald sunshine, elms, prairie gold, quaking aspens and Norwegian sunset maples to line the streets. 'By integrating trees and thoughtful landscaping from the very beginning, we're setting the tone for a city that grows in balance with nature and creates a beautiful place for those who visit and call Utah City home. It's very beautiful,' Hutchinson said. The Greenline Promenade, a central linear park, is being built as part of phase one. The park will have an all-abilities play area, lawn space for events year-round and additional native plant landscaping. The park is expected to open this summer. 'We believe in creating places that last,' said Jeff Woodbury of Woodbury Corporation, one of Utah City's developers. 'Planting thousands of mature trees in the Utah City development reflects our values and the responsibility we have to be good stewards of the land we're building on.' The first 100 people to attend will receive a tree sapling to take home, 'offering a way for residents to grow alongside Utah City,' the statement said. Updates on the grocery store Bella's Market will also be given at the event. 'Our growing city is already a designated USA Tree City, reflecting our commitment to high-quality, thoughtful development,' said Vineyard Mayor Julie Fullmer. It's encouraging the Utah City developers are investing in urban forestry, she said. 'The trees planted here will enhance economic opportunity, add natural beauty, improve livability, and contribute to the long-term health of our city for generations to come,' Fullmer said.
Associated Press
09-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
ONELIFE Senior Living Assumes Management of The Vineyard at Fountaingrove in Santa Rosa, California
Onelife Senior Living, a family-owned developer and operator of senior housing headquartered in Denver, has officially assumed management of The Vineyard at Fountaingrove Memory Care in Santa Rosa, California, as of March 1st, 2025. The community will soon be rebranded as The Reserve at Fountaingrove Memory Care, symbolizing a fresh start and renewed commitment to exceptional care for residents living with Alzheimer's and other memory-related conditions. This latest acquisition brings Onelife's portfolio to 15 communities, including five in California. Following an early 2024 merger with Ally Senior Living, Onelife has more than doubled its number of properties in just six months. This expansion aligns with the organization's mission to meet the growing demand for specialized memory care services across the state. 'The Vineyard at Fountaingrove Memory Care will be our fifth community in California,' said Dan Williams, CEO of ONELIFE Senior Living. 'We are committed to expanding in California, where approximately 720,000 individuals aged 65 and older were living with Alzheimer's disease in 2023. With this number expected to reach nearly 1.2 million by 2030, Onelife is focused on meeting the growing need for specialized memory care.' Living and Care Options The Vineyard at Fountaingrove Memory Care is a premier residential community dedicated to supporting individuals with Alzheimer's, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. Residents benefit from a secure and nurturing environment where personalized care, thoughtfully designed spaces, and enriching daily activities foster comfort, dignity, and a true sense of belonging. The Vineyard offers a variety of floor plans, including private and neighbor suites, allowing families to select the option that best suits their loved one's preferences and budget. With no buy-in fees or long-term lease commitments, The Vineyard at Fountaingrove provides families with the flexibility and peace of mind they deserve. Nestled in the scenic Fountaingrove neighborhood of Santa Rosa, the community combines comfort and care to create a welcoming home for all residents. Resident Safety and Staff The Vineyard prioritizes resident safety and independence, with caregivers available 24/7 and a licensed nurse overseeing care daily. Call systems provide added security, while weekly housekeeping and personal laundry services enhance convenience for residents. Activities and Amenities The Vineyard offers a vibrant lifestyle with personalized activities that promote joy and connection. Residents enjoy music and art therapy, fitness classes, interactive games, and social gatherings designed to support cognitive and physical well-being. Thoughtfully designed amenities include built-in storage, hardwood-style flooring, garden views, and home-cooked meals served in spacious neighborhood kitchens. With 24-hour staff availability and an on-site salon and barbershop, The Vineyard ensures comfort and care every day. To contact Onelife or schedule a tour at The Vineyard at Fountaingrove Memory Care, visit Founded in 2009, Denver-based Onelife Senior Living is a family-owned developer and operator of a growing collection of independent, assisted living and memory care communities designed to provide seniors with the care, support and encouragement they need to live healthy, happy lives. Contact Information: ONELIFE Senior Living 206-499-9898
