Imagine all of the building only torn down to 3 feet above the first floor level. Seal the floor. Pave the floor with matching sidewalk pavers and slots for drainage. Build two shallow planters on either side of the front ramp area for annuals, with entry pavers between, one car width. Keep some water bibs.

Construct a heavy open timber patio cover 8 or 9 feet above the floor, 2 x 8and#8217;s on 16and#8221; centers. Cover it all in the summer with removable sections of canvas awning. Construct a comfortable railing of wood above the 3and#8217;0and#8221; high walls. Keep some electrical receptacles but winterize them. Scrap all the sewer lines.

Replace the wall area where the front pedestrian and two side car doors are. Over time, add loose furniture as seems appropriate. Signage over the front entry, small, but quality. Brown paint all the new wood, green canvas. Have TCPUD Parks and Recreation administer it. Art shows, community events, concerts, blood drives. No snow removal, 100 percent lake view.

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Run a contest for the best memorable name. A great spot for starting marathons, bike races and TV reporting on lake events. Is there room for a permanent year round T/C radio station (always an attraction)? The existing foundation has proved durable and#8212; why pay to tear it out? But it could use some paint. Explore possible uses for under the floor. Canvas storage? Keep the entire design and#8220;Tahoe rusticand#8221; in keeping with our whole downtown theme. We are getting the reputation as a fine place to visit.

Ray Jones

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Homewood