Holiday Message 2012

Image Montage by Wo-Built: Warm Season’s Greetings by fireside with champagne

and evergreen trees from Wo-Built and PeapodLife Building EcoSystems and Technology
Image Credit: MS Office ClipArt: Season’s Greetings

Season’s Greetings from all of us at Wo-Built, Inc.

As we close out another year, we pause to remember everyone who made 2012 such an exciting and prosperous year for Wo-Built.

We worked on some fabulous projects and took major strides forward in our new strategic initiative, PeapodLife Building EcoSystems and Technology.

This year wasn’t without its challenges, but with the help, guidance, patronage and support of our Partners, Clients, Investors, Friends and Family, we came through stronger, wiser, and better prepared for the challenges ahead. Thank you one and all.

If 2012 was any indication, there will be many more people watching and wishing us success, if for no other reason than our social, environmental and economic mission is one they too believe in.

As we head into the New Year, we do so with a renewed sense of passion and commitment to the future of our Company, and all who stand beside and behind us. We will not let you down.

It is therefore with warm hearts that we wish one and all a Very Happy Festive Season and blessings for a prosperous and peaceful New Year.

From all of us to all of you, may you be happy; may you be joyful; may you be at peace.


Martina Ernst
President/CEO
Wo-Built Inc. - Innovative Design and Build
and the Entire Wo-Built & PeapodLife Team

A Little Culinary Gem in Corso Italia: Sunnyville Grill

Photo Collage: Sunnyville Grill - Little Culinary Gem
2010 © wobuilt.com

Having been in our new home, Corso Italia, for more than a few months now, we’ve had the opportunity to experience many of its culinary dee-lites. One little gem we’ve discovered is a place called the Sunnyville Grill. Located at 1218 St. Clair Ave. W., it’s a fairly new business to the area, but it has all the ingredients required of a good eatery. A warm and friendly ambiance, wonderful home-cooked food and reasonable prices. As a family-run business, Mom helps out in the kitchen, hence all the delicious comfort foods, while Loui, the owner, tours the entire café making sure things are running smoothly at all times. In short it’s one of our favorite destinations for a lunch-time break.

Sunnyville Grill also offers a wonderful catering service for events in the area. As a new business in the immediate area we have had the opportunity to use their catering services for a business meeting and can report first hand what a wonderful experience it was. Their service was prompt, the food was plentiful and all the dishes were freshly prepared. There was a good variety of food to choose from and judging from everyone's comments and the empty plates, all the food was delicious.

We will keep you posted on our many culinary adventures in the neighborhood, so check into our forum from time to time.

Lonya Miller,
Writer
Wo-Built Inc. - Innovative Design and Build

links:
wobuilt.blogspot.com: Sunnyville Grill: Home-style Meal Cooked by Mom with Love
wobuilt.blogspot.com: Wo-Built Inc. Is on the Move!
foodpages.ca: Reviews on Sunnyville Grill
foodpages.ca: Sunnyville Grill - All Day Breakfast
chowhound.com: Hidden gems on St. Clair W?
"The space has been turned into Sunnyville Grill. They offer all day breakfast. I've only been the once--the eggs were cooked to order and the staff were eager. The decor is basic, but it's much better value than Boom."
By mikeb on Feb 02, 2010 08:39AM

Wobinna’s Dream Home Contest: Submission #5 Houseboat

Image: Design Competition 2010
Wobinna Wants to Know: What's Your Dream House? Is It ...
#5. Freedom on the Open Waters in Your Very Own Cozy Houseboat ...
Illustration by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

Another great design idea from Lonya, our Wo-Built writer, for the dream house competition examples.

The Houseboat

My goodness! If you’re willing to dream - the housing options seem endless. Another intriguing idea of a dream house is that of a houseboat. Surprisingly, on discussion about this idea – two different ideas emerged. One was that of a floating but stationary house in a floating marina, no less.

MY idea of a houseboat would actually BE on a boat (not a good idea if you get seasick, but as it happens, I don’t). I think by now everyone knows I love a space that is compact – nothing too big (too much cleaning and maintenance) but the appeal of a compact space is also that of its coziness. I’ve seen some luxury houseboats that were totally massive and could accommodate a whole tribe, but that’s not what I would find appealing.

This idea intrigues me, as well, because of the home’s movable ability. Sort of like a tortoise with its shell on its back, your home goes with you wherever you want to go. Have an argument with your neighbors? Move your boat further down the river. Just want a change of scenery? Move your boat to a more pleasing surrounding. And another redeeming quality would be there is no need for a car! Another green idea!

What I would want personally inside MY houseboat would be sort of like an apartment, except that it would just be on a boat. It would have a kitchenette, and a reasonably sized but cozy dining and family area. It would have to have a separate sleeping area or two (for guests) with adjoining washrooms. A small deck might be nice to be able to sit outside on a nice day.

This turtle thinks it would be lots of fun to see more of the world with my own oasis in tow and not worry about noisy neighbors, hotel rooms and timelines. And, if this turtle hits a nice spot and some good weather it just might stay afloat for awhile!

Lonya is the staff writer for Wo-Built Inc.

Here are our 5 great ideas for design concept of the dream house or home: conservatory, tree house, grand staircase, condo, and houseboat.

You might have some really great ideas to add. We are looking forward to exploring your projects and bringing them to completion. If you have any other ideas please submit them to us at info@wobuilt.com


Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

Wobinna’s Dream Home Contest: Submission #4 Condo

Image: Design Competition 2010

Wobinna Wants to Know: What's Your Dream House? Is It ...
#4 ... Maybe Simplifying Your Living Space, Like a Condo ...
Illustration by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

New idea from the Wo-Built staff, this time a dreamhouse concept of simplifying living space, like an apartment in a condo .

The Condo

My dream house is a low-rise, 2-bedroom condominium with a walk-in closet that nestles on a quiet tree-lined street in the middle of the city. It would have to have a balcony preferably overlooking a park and be close to shopping and transportation. I’ve come to this conclusion over my lifetime.

At different stages of my life, I’ve lived in a variety of dwellings in different locations, so I’ve had a bit of time to realize what my “dream house” would truly be. I’ve lived in houses as well as apartments. I’ve learned that houses, although they have their perks, require a lot of upkeep. The time, maintenance and expense can be considerable and that this can impact on lifestyle as well.

An apartment is more compact, requires less upkeep as well as cleaning. And there are always neighbors close by. A condominium offers the opportunity of home ownership with all the perks of apartment living.

In short the "C"s have it for me: a Condo that’s

• Compact (easy on maintenance, in that someone else does it and smaller to keep clean),
• Close (to my neighbors) and
• Convenient (to all the amenities).
  

Lonya is the staff writer for Wo-Built Inc.

Next design idea: The Houseboat

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

Wobinna’s Dream Home Contest: Submission #3 Grand Staircase

Image: Design Competition 2010

Wobinna Wants to Know: What's Your Dream House? Is It ...
#3 ... Maybe More Elegant Surroundings, Like a Staircase ...
Illustration by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

New idea from the Wo-Built staff, this time about more elegant surroundings of a dreamhouse with big sweeping staircase .

The Grand Staircase

I'm quite eclectic when it comes to style. I like a lot of different design types and often mix them together.

The crisp, clean look of a modern room or the feel of rich, dark wooden floors, ceilings and furniture, along with the old world charm of some antiquey pieces - they are all eye catching to me, but a grand staircase is what I would love most.

I grew up with and still enjoy the glitz and glamour of days gone by when movie stars were still movie stars and lived in homes with big sweeping staircases that gave them an air of elegance. I think creating a home with a staircase such as this one as the focal point would be amazing.

It should be open to the floor below and be designed in such a way that the underside could work as another functioning room. The home itself should surround this unique structure and be visible by most places in it.

My Dream Home is very open in concept and would be filled with large colourful pieces throughout to keep that homey feel.

Dawn Palfreyman is the artist, design creator, site worker for Wo-Built Inc.
Connect with Dawn on Facebook

Next design idea: The Condo

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

Wobinna and Friends: A Solo Class Assignment

Comic Strip: Wobinna and Friends: A Solo Class Assignment
Illustrations and story by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

Panel 1

Mikki & Wobinna are having a sleepover at Wobinna’s house. Already in their pajamas, they lounge around in Wobinna’s room chatting about another class assignment in Shop Class. This time the assignment is a solo project.

Mikki (asking with great curiosity): How are you going to top that project from Shop Class now!

Wobinna (hugging her pillow trying to think of a suitable project): I know!! The next assignment is a solo thing so I gotta get my thinking cap on!!!


Panel 2

The next morning Wobinna and Mikki are sitting in the kitchen at the breakfast table still talking about Wobinna’s solo class assignment over their cereal. Mikki has a suggestion for Wobinna.

Mikki (helpfully): Maybe an architectural model of a development for your final project could work?

Wobinna (liking the idea): I could make it out of wood!! Very cool!!!

Panel 3

Wobinna is in her basement working over her model development. As she puts the finishing touches on her project, she is quite pleased with the finished model. She then decides to have a little bit of fun and starts to clown around with a story about the town.

Wobinna (with a slightly wicked grin): The sleepy town never saw it coming ... the attack of the 50 ft. woman, BWHA HA! HA!.....

Hope you enjoyed this strip.
Look for a new Wobinna adventure next week.

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

links:
Wobinna Is Born
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna
Wobinna Built a Fabulous Doll House
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna1
Wobinna and Friends Built a Fabulous Lemonade Stand
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna2
Wobinna and Friends: The Joys of Shop Class!
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna3
Wobinna and Friends: A Solo Class Assignment
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna8

Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment: Conclusion

Comic Strip: Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment: Part 3

Illustrations and story by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

Wobinna & Friends: Class Assignment - Conclusion (Part 3)

Panel 1

Wobinna and all her classmates crowd into the auditorium anxiously awaiting the start of the competition. The principal is on stage at the podium making his introductory speech while the judges and teachers look on.

Wobinna (in the audience): Tough competition Rob!!

Principal (loudly and with great enthusiasm): Welcome participants! Let me say, I’m proud of all of you!!


Panel 2

Wobinna, Rob and Paul are eagerly explaining to the judge how their project works. The judge listens intently and makes her marking as they all chime in. The project all put together and spread out on the floor is called the petroleum pelican.

Paul (excitedly): The head scoops, sifts and swivels. Into the containment body it goes!!

Wobinna (continues with just as much excitement): Opens and closes too!

Rob (not to be left out, chimes in as well): The remote controls all the action!!

Panel 3

All the winners are crowded onto the stage in jubilation. With arms outstretched and cheering in triumph they hold onto their trophies & prizes while the announcements of the winners can be heard in the background.

Principal’s voice in the background: This year’s auction was amazing. Very creative projects! Now ... to the winners and cash prizes!!!

Judge: 3rd Prize Team – "Ride Baby Ride" for $150.00! 2nd Prize Team – "Domed Domicile" for $300.00! 1st Prize Team – "Pelicans" for $500.00!!

Ride Baby Ride team jubilantly: We placed 3rd dude! Cool!

In conclusion Wobinna gives the audience the thumbs up while Paul and Rob wave. All three are clutching the 1st Prize cup!!!

Look for new adventures of Wobinna and Friends next week!!

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

links:
Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna6
Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment: Part 2
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna6b
Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment: Conclusion
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna6c

Wobinna’s Dream Home Contest: Submission #2 Tree House

Image: Design Competition 2010

Wobinna Wants to Know: What's Your Dream House? Is It ...
#2 ... Maybe Lots of Nature, Like a Tree House ...
Illustration by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

More ideas from the Wo-Built staff, this time about the tree house.
Dawn’s interpretation of a tree house is living in a tree with separate structures, but Lonya has a new take on it. Here is what her tree dreamhouse is all about.

The Tree House

In these days of green awareness and eco-friendliness, what could be more ideal than maybe ... a tree house? Not only does a tree house epitomize sustainability but it brings us back to a simpler and quieter time. A time when we were younger, innocent, and freer. And certainly, to a time when we could and DID let our imaginations run riot.

It seems that in these modern times, people are rediscovering tree houses and their joys and as such a few companies that specialize in tree houses have sprung up. Of course these are still for children only, but if you yearn to get away from it all, imagine living in a custom-built tree house just for you.

My dream tree house would actually be nestled between some trees away from prying eyes, but not necessarily IN a tree. It would be high enough off the ground to be able to walk underneath, a glassed-in area (sort of like a family room underneath your house) and supported by a number of beams.

There would be a staircase to access the main floor area. It would consist of a wraparound balcony and it would be divided into 3 rooms - 2 bedrooms and an open concept kitchenette, living and dining area with a huge bay window to be able to see the forest animals frolicking (remember this is a dream!) – but hopefully no bears!

Although I am a nature lover, but not really one for roughing it too much, an indoor washroom is needed with, of course, indoor plumbing. And being environmentally conscious my tree-house would have to be "green" (no pun intended).

This would certainly be my ideal getaway, away from prying eyes, back to nature and a more leisurely pace of life.

Lonya is the staff writer for Wo-Built Inc.

Next design idea: The Grand Staircase

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment: Part 2

Comic Strip: Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment

Illustrations and story by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment continues (part 2)

Panel 1

Wobinna is in the workshop at Rob’s parent’s garage with Paul and Rob and their project all wrapped up (literally!) in huge boxes. Paul gives the thumbs-up, while Rob looks on with relief and joy at a job well-done.

Wobinna (with her arm up triumphantly declares with excitement): Yes!! All done... Great job guys!!!

Panel 2

Wobinna is in the driver’s seat of the van while Rob and Paul load up the boxes with the project into the back of the vehicle.

Wobinna: Have we got all the boxes?

Rob (looking around for any stray boxes): Ummm……..

Paul (panting and struggling to load a huge box onto the van): I hope so!!

Panel 3

Wobinna, Paul and Rob are in the auditorium with all their other classmates unpacking the boxes and setting up their project.

Paul (bringing in the last box): We got this in the bag!!

Rob (with enthusiasm): Fer sure man!!!

... to be continued.

Look for the exciting conclusion and the announcement of the winner next week!!

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

links:
Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna6
Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment: Part 2
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna6b
Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment: Conclusion
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna6c

Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment

Comic Strip: Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment

Illustrations and story by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

Panel 1

Wobinna is in her shop classroom as her teacher reads out their assignment. She gets a brainstorm and starts whispering excitedly to her classmate.

Teacher: New Project…Blah, Blah, Blah. You can win prizes!

Wobinna (whispering excitedly): I have an idea Paul! Let’s meet in the caf!

Paul listens intently.

Panel 2

Paul, Rob and Wobinna sit at the cafeteria table and talk excitedly about their ideas for the upcoming project over lunch.

Paul again listens intently and eats as Wobinna and Rob enthusiastically discuss their plans.

Wobinna: What about a robot that can clean the oil from the beaches?

Rob (waving his hand excitedly): Awesome! I think teach will love it!!

Panel 3

Paul, Rob and Wobinna are back in the workshop as Wobinna shows the boys her idea drawn out on paper. They go over their plans for the project and Paul and Wobinna start assembling materials and tools.

Wobinna (carrying some boards): You find it?

Paul (triumphantly): Ya, It’s over here!

Meanwhile Rob sets up a working area at his house.

Paul and Wobinna go shopping for the rest of the needed materials.

In a flurry of excitement the assembly begins.

... to be continued.

Stay tuned to the exciting conclusion of the project!

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

links:
Wobinna Is Born
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna
Wobinna Built a Fabulous Doll House
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna1
Wobinna and Friends Built a Fabulous Lemonade Stand
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna2
Wobinna and Friends: The Joys of Shop Class!
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna3
Wobinna and Friends: A Summer Job Project Like No Other
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna4
Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna6
Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment: Part 2
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna6b
Wobinna and Friends: Class Assignment: Conclusion
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna6c

Wobinna’s Dream Home Contest: Submission #1 Conservatory

Image: Design Competition 2010
Wobinna Wants to Know: What's Your Dream House? Is It ...
#1 ... Maybe Lots of Glass, Like a Conservatory ...
Illustration by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

Earlier this year we resurrected our intention of hosting a Dream House contest and bit by bit it is taking shape. The contest explores the notion of the dream house or home and we want to see the many forms this can take.

Over the next several weeks we are going to publish several dream house designs concepts and stories from our staff. As much as we want to see your design ideas we want to hear the reason and the stories behind the dream.

Dream House Ideas Which Will Be Featured from the Wo-Built Staff

We are influenced by popular culture or movies. Many of our ideas come from the images we see. My personal favorites are often the designs of futuristic movies, such as the set for Blade Runner. Creating environments for the future apparently gives us the leeway of dreaming big, different or out of the box.

In an age where we as a society excel in mediocrity and where often the lowest common denominator rules this contest will push the envelope of home design, of ideas, of finding out what is important to you. Dream houses do not have to be realistic or obtainable. Part of the joy of dreams is that one works towards an ideal.

We will feature:

• the conservatory
• the tree house
• the grand staircase
• the condo
• the houseboat

The Conservatory

My idea for a conservatory started when I went with my sister to Doi Angkhang in the northern parts of Thailand close to the Burmese and Cambodian borders in 1999. Doi Angkhang is a research station which studies the viability of different crops that can be farmed successfully in the area.

When we visited, the facility had grown to several large garden compounds, cultivating fruit trees, vegetables and other crops and a simple resort. One of my favorite places was large tented area with its own stream/pond and walkways. Since then I wanted to own a conservatory, but not a small one attached to the house, but a small house attached to a large conservatory.

Even though the Thai facility did not have buildings attached to the green houses, the idea is really an extension of the court yard one. Court yards were used to regulate temperature, used for relaxations and other purposes.

I don’t like large living spaces for the sake of being large, but I love the idea of a large garden you can live in through out the year.

Therefore my dream home is a conservatory with satellite buildings.

The satellite buildings would house small bedrooms, offices, kitchen and bathroom facilities, but the bulk of the central area would be used for growing food (hydroponics), lovely dining experience and the relaxing living area (no TV) amongst the plants.

Martina Ernst
CEO
Wo-Built Inc.

Next design idea: The Tree House

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

Wobinna and Friends: A Summer Job Project Like No Other

Comic Strip: Wobinna and Friends: A Summer Job Project Like No Other

Illustrations and story by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

... summer has arrived ...

Panel 1

Wobinna and her friend, Micki enter Tamie’s Place, the local hangout where all the students from the neighborhood high school meet. As they enter, Wobinna turns to Micki and asks ...

Wobinna (curiously): How’s your summer job going?

Micki (smiling): Well ... you know ...


Panel 2

While having a cup of coffee Micki and Wobinna talk enthusiastically about Micki’s Project Management position for the summer.

Micki (excitedly): Let me tell you about my office reno, it’s gonna be like ... soooo sic!!

As Micki talks about her mental picture of the project, she explains its progress. During their conversation they both envision all the building activities.

Micki (giving building directions with vigor): I need this here ... Oh, and here ... And I want this here ... Especially there!

Builder (rolling his eyes in confusion and thinking Blah! Blah! Blah!): Where do you want the door?!

Wobinna (captivated by all the details): With all your explaining, building should be a breeze!

Panel 3

Micki takes Wobinna to the job site to show her the progress. To her dismay she realizes that her instructions where not completely understood.

Micki: LOOK! ... After all my explaining he still put the door in the wrong place!!!

Builder (looking more confused than ever, thinking to himself with a shrug): That’s what you told me you wanted.

Wobinna (thoughtfully): Maybe we have to draw pictures!!

Hope you enjoyed this strip.
Look for a new Wobinna adventure next week.

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

links:
Wobinna Is Born
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna
Wobinna Built a Fabulous Doll House
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna1
Wobinna and Friends Built a Fabulous Lemonade Stand
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna2
Wobinna and Friends: The Joys of Shop Class!
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna3
Wobinna and Friends: A Summer Job Project Like No Other
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna4

Wobinna and Friends: The Joys of Shop Class!

Comic Strip: Wobinna & Friends: The Joys of Shop Class!

Illustrations and story by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

... as time goes by ...

Panel 1

Wobinna must choose her course selection for grade 11. She and her Mom get comfortable on the couch and go thru all the options available to her.

Mom (excitedly): Oooh, wood shop, you should take that!!!

Wobinna (happily responding): That would fit!! PERFECT!

Panel 2

After finishing her first shop class, she puts her tools away into her locker. The girls just finishing their home economics class are whispering.

Blonde girl to her brunette friend (incredulously): Can you believe she has shop class?!

Two of Wobinna’s classmates spot her: There she is!!

Panel 3

Wobinna and her two (male) classmates are joking around in the school hallway while the Home Ec. girls look on enviously.

Brunette to her blonde friend: …and that’s not all she has!!

Hope you enjoyed this strip.
Look for a new Wobinna adventure next week.

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

links:
Wobinna Is Born
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna
Wobinna Built a Fabulous Doll House
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna1
Wobinna and Friends Built a Fabulous Lemonade Stand
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna2
Wobinna and Friends: The Joys of Shop Class!
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna3

Wobinna and Friends Built a Fabulous Lemonade Stand

Comic Strip: Wobinna & Friends Built a Fabulous Lemonade Stand
Illustrations and story by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

The Early Years...

Panel 1
Young Wobinna (about 10 years old) and her best friend, (Michaela, Micki for short) are lying in the backyard on the grass. It’s the week-end and they’re bored. They’re looking for something to do. Micki comes up with an idea.

Micki: Why don’t we set up a lemonade stand?

Wobinna with an enthusiastic response: H’mm….I like it, I’ll build the stand!

Panel 2
They are now in Wobinna’s room at her drafting table creating a plan for their lemonade stand. They’re both excited about the ideas that they’ve come up with.

Wobinna: What if we had an extra piece (of wood) here?

Micki (excitedly): Ooooh! And here!!

Panel 3
With the final constructed stand, they set up for business at their local park. With their unique design, they attract a lot of attention and sell a lot of lemonade!

Young couple buying lemonade: WOW! Cool stand!

Micki in response: (Yeah) She (Wobinna) loves to build!

We really hope you enjoy this story.
The next comic strip to follow!

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

links:
Wobinna Is Born
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna
Wobinna Built a Fabulous Doll House
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna1
Wobinna and Friends Built a Fabulous Lemonade Stand
http://tinyurl.com/wobinna2

Wobinna Built a Fabulous Doll House

Comic Strip: Wobinna & Friends: Wobinna Built a Fabulous Doll House
Illustrations and story by Dawn Palfreyman
Copyright 2010 © Wo-Built Inc.

The early years...

Panel 1
Wobinna’s mother is suggesting something for her to play with.
Wobinna looks at the dolls in her room with a grimace, and thinks to herself "I don’t want to play with these".

Wobinna’s mother’s voice: Why don’t you play with your dolls?!

Wobinna making a face: Hmm…

She then notices the wood in the backyard through her window.

Panel 2
Sitting by the tree with the wood and hammer in hand, there is a flurry of activity. With a big smile on her face she is building...

Wobinna (happy): Now this is fun!!


Panel 3
With not much care for her dolls, she shoves them all into their newly built home.

Wobinna (shouting to her mother from the backyard): Found something to do with my dolls Mom!!

We really hope you enjoy this story.
The next comic strip to follow!

Wo-Built Inc. is dedicated to women in the trades. We created Wobinna & Friends to encourage women to look at the construction industry as an alternative career choice with a multitude of options. Wobinna & Friends is interested in all aspects of the construction industry. We would like to see more women explore the many opportunities open to them and become successful.

Wobinna & Friends and any associated characters, storylines and/or merchandise are the sole property and copyright of Wo-Built Inc. This includes all media.

Wo-Built Inc. Is on the Move!

Collage: Wo-Built Inc. Is on the Move!
Photos: Olga Goubar
2010 @ wobuilt.com

As our company is expanding, so will our offices. On May 15th we will be moving into our new office space located at 1287 St. Clair Ave W., in the heart of Corso Italia. Over the next few weeks we will be in a flurry of activity with the designing, painting and the setting up of our new office space. (What Wo-built does best!)

Last week members of the Wo-built team received a tour of our new office and the surrounding neighborhood. We also took the opportunity to visit a few of the neighboring businesses for lunch and coffee and to speak with some of the residents in the community, please see the pictures above. We were delighted with all the diversity that we found in our new neighborhood.

Our entire staff is quite excited and looking forward to settling into our new digs and exploring our new community more thoroughly!

Stay tuned for further updates on our adventures in our new hood!

Lonya is the staff writer for Wo-Built Inc.

Time for the National Home Show!

Screenshot: The National Home Show, presented by RE/MAX,
February 19 - 28, 2010 at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place
How's that little project coming along?
Home Renovation Guide: Find a Home Solution + Renovation of the Month (Before & After)
Credit: nationalhomeshow.com

The National Home Show, presented by RE/MAX

How's that little project coming along?

DATES | HOURS
Friday, February 19 – Sunday, February 28, 2009
Monday, February 22 - Mommies Day!
Thursday, February 25 - Girls Night Out!
Weekdays: 11 am - 9 pm
Saturdays: 10 am - 9 pm
Sundays: 10 am - 6 pm
www.nationalhomeshow.com

LOCATION
Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place
100 Princes' Blvd.
Toronto, ON
416-263-3000
www.ntc.on.ca

February 19 marks the start of the National Home Show. Whether you’re looking for a major "lift" for your home or just for some fresh new ideas to update your space, you’ll come across them here, all under one roof. You’ll find lots of new trends and new ideas to update your home, as well as practical solutions for decorating and/or renovating dilemmas.

Look for gardening and landscaping tips as well from the many experts there. And, as an added bonus, special guest, Ty Pennington of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition will be making a guest appearance on February 19th. If you’re thinking of sprucing up your home, there’s much to inspire you at the National Home Show.

As a design and build company that always strives to exceed our customers’ expectations, we like to keep on top of the trends in the industry, so Wo-Built Inc. will be making the rounds to see what’s new. Hope to see you there!

Lonya is the staff writer for Wo-Built Inc.

links:
Wo-Built: Impressions of the Toronto Fall Home Show
Wo-Built: Home Renovation and Custom Building Awards: Wo-Built Comes Out On Top!!!
Wo-Built: Canada's HomeBuilder & Renovator Expo Begins Tomorrow

technorati tags:
renovation
home renovation
kitchen renovation

HURRY! Home Renovation Tax Credit Ends Soon

Screenshot: Canada's Economic Action Plan
The Home Renovation Tax Credit: Put Your Tax Dollars Back Into Your Home
Save up to $1,350 on home improvements purchased before February 1, 2010.
Credit: www.actionplan.gc.ca

Time to take advantage of the renovation tax credit may be running out, but there are still a few incentives for home renovators out there. If you’ve been putting off those renovations for one reason or another and you think you have missed the deadline for the Ontario renovation tax credit which expires February 1st, 2010, don’t despair. There are still some grants and rebates in place that you may be eligible for that will go beyond the January 31st, 2010 deadline. One such grant is the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program. You can find more information about this grant if you follow this link http://www.mei.gov.on.ca/en/energy/conservation/homeenergyon/?page=homeenergy-sav-prog.

Another site that might be helpful in your search for receiving rebates for those costly renovations is http://www.homeperformance.com/ontario-rebate-grants-ontario-government-energy-rebates?gclid=CNftioSZxZ4CFQiA5QodChiKqA.

There is a long list of renovations for your home that might be eligible for rebates. So if you’re still thinking of getting those renovations done, there is still some financial relief out there. And, of course, we can help as well! Just call us at 416-354-2555 for your free Dream Home Assessment!

Or visit our website http://wobuilt.com/ for more complete information on ways that we can help.

Lonya is the staff writer for Wo-Built Inc.

Being Green in Toronto – Everyone Can Participate!

Collage: Being Green with Wo-Built

Being environmentally conscious is a topic that is very much in the forefront today and is a concern to everyone. In today’s eco conscious world everyone can do their part for the environment.

In the City of Toronto alone everyone from school-age children, large corporations and ordinary citizens are learning to be environmentally friendly. Most of us do the usual things such as recycling and using compact fluorescent bulbs but as the Green Toronto Winners and Finalists list proves, many people are thinking of new and innovative ways to be environmentally friendly and saving our resources. Highlighted on this list, you can read about the "Now House™ Project Inc.", a green design award winner for a home with a near zero energy retrofit that will hopefully be modeled for future "green" homes. Also highlighted is Campbell Company of Canada, a winner for the water efficiency award. They have implemented a water recovery program that saves 25 - 40 million liters of water a month. To read more about the many other creative ways that some people in our great City of Toronto have come up with to being environmentally friendly, please follow the link to Green Toronto Awards Winners and Finalists.

Although we didn’t make the list (maybe next year!), we at Wo-Built always try to do our part as green builders. One initiative that we strongly believe in is the donation of reusable items from our building projects. One such worthy cause close to our hearts is Habitat for Humanity. They will reuse most items in their building projects or they will be put up for resale at Habitat Restores to raise money for much needed supplies for their ventures. Follow this link Building Homes - Leading Women into Construction to read about Wobuilts’ adventures at Habitat for Humanity.

You can also join us on our twitter page for regular updates and links to some interesting reading. As well as saving resources for future generations, being green can be fun!

Lonya is the staff writer for Wo-Built Inc.

youtube.com: Future City Toronto
This video is being shown at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen. Mayor Miller will be attending to represent Toronto as Chair of the C40 at the Climate Summit for Mayors and continue to champion the leadership of cities in fighting climate change. Watch the video to see what Toronto is doing to fight climate change.
Find out what you can do at www.livegreentoronto.ca
Credit: livegreentoronto

links:
City of Toronto: Solid Waste Management: ReUseIt: Minimize the waste through reduction and reuse strategies
City of Toronto: Green Toronto Awards Winners and Finalists
City of Toronto: What's the City doing to shrink its footprint?
City of Toronto: Zerofootprint Toronto

Wo-Built: Going Green in the City: Building and Renovating with "Being Green" in Mind:
Part 1 - Eco-Friendly Home Improvements
Part 2 - Going Green Is Becoming Mainstream
Part 3 - Living Rooftops - An Environmental Alternative for "Green" Building
Wo-Built: Our Green and Eco Tweets to Follow

examiner.com: Toronto Mayor David Miller - Copenhagen climate change summit 2009
"The Toronto Mayor promises a plan to extend the Transit City plan with over 120km of light rail transit. In an attempt to restore and reuse, a plan to strengthen the economy and to create green jobs includes building construction to retrofit old high-rise concrete apartments fighting climate change in the process."
by Tomitheos Linardos
thestar.com: Toronto struts its stuff at Copenhagen climate conference
by Paul Moloney

Kitchen Upgrade – Plan Yours Today!

Collage: Kitchen renovation project: The kitchen before... and After
These kitchen cabinets were redesigned to give the kitchen
a more streamlined and contemporary ambiance.

We all know that a kitchen upgrade can add maximum value to your home, especially in the resale market.

In today’s tight economy, many people are on the lookout for relatively inexpensive updates for their homes. Aside from adding new and trendy paint colours (please follow the link to our article Colour for Your Home and Your Life for this years’ "in" colours) which is one of the least inexpensive ways to freshen up a kitchen, nothing else will renew a kitchen more than a new countertop.

Your countertops are one of the most outstanding features in your kitchen, and modernizing them is a smart and reasonably inexpensive way for an update. There are many materials used in the modernizing of countertops today ranging from inexpensive to costly. Some of the more widely used substances are: Granite, Marble, Plastic Laminate, Slab Plastic, Ceramic Tile, Slate and Soapstone just to name a few.

Nothing outdates a kitchen more than an old countertop and nothing will give your kitchen more oomph than a new one. A new kitchen counter is one feature that can add instant value to your home. We at Wo-Built Inc. specialize in kitchen upgrades of all kinds and can help you get the most value from your upgrade.

For more ideas call us today at 416-354-2555 or please go to our website www.wobuilt.com for more information. Whether you are thinking of just an upgrade or a major renovation we can help!

Lonya is the staff writer for Wo-Built Inc.

links:
Wo-Built: Home Design Workshop: Get Your Smart Kitchen & Bathroom Design Ideas
Wo-Built: Kitchen Design Trends
Wo-Built: Kitchen Design Tips
Wo-Built: Kitchen Style Trends
Wo-Built: Kitchen Color Trends
Wo-Built: Kitchen Lighting Trends
+
Wo-Built: Invest in Your Home Renovations and Be Eligible to Receive up to $1,350 in Tax Relief
The Home Renovation Tax Credit will provide a one-year, temporary 15% income tax credit on eligible home renovation expenditures for work performed, or goods acquired between January 27, 2009 and February 1, 2010. The credit may be claimed on eligible expenditures exceeding $1,000 but no more than $10,000.
Wo-Built: Home Renovation Tip: Donate Reusable Items to Non-For-Profit Organizations
Please consider donating your used items when renovating!