Covers towns roughly within 50 miles of Augusta.

LEGISLATIVE REPORT as of Thursday, May 26, 2023

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(photo by Eric W. Austin)

Legislative bills submitted by area senators & representatives as of Friday, May 26:

L.D. 1911, H.P. 1227

An Act Concerning Automotive Right to Repair. (Presented by Representative WHITE of Waterville)

L.D. 1917, S.P. 779

RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine To Implement Ranked-choice Voting for Governor, State Senator and State Representative. (Presented by Senator RENY of Lincoln)

L.D. 1923, S.P. 785

An Act to Provide for Licensing of and Tax Collection from Remote Retail Sellers of Pipe Tobacco and Premium Cigars. (Presented by Senator POULIOT of Kennebec)

L.D. 1925, H.P. 1230

An Act to Clarify and Improve the Laws Relating to the Background Check Center and the Maine Certified Nursing Assistant and Direct Care Worker Registry. (Presented by Representative SHAGOURY of Hallowell)

L.D. 1940, S.P. 789

An Act to Promote Consistent Policies within Growth Management Programs in Order to Increase Food Security and Economic Resiliency in Local Communities. (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)

L.D. 1953, H.P. 1255

RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine to Establish a Parental Bill of Rights. (Presented by Representative POIRIER of Skowhegan)

L.D. 1956, H.P. 1258

An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Optometrists. (Presented by Representative POIRIER of Skowhegan)

L.D. 1968, H.P. 1265

An Act to Amend the Membership of the Somerset Woods Trustees. (Presented by Representative DUCHARME of Madison)

L.D. 1980, S.P. 809

An Act to Improve Election Laws and Notarial Laws. (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)

(Copies of the Bills may be obtained from the Document Room, First Floor, State House, Augusta, Maine 04333-0002 – Ph: 207-287-1408. Bill text, bill status and roll call information are available on the Internet at http://legislature.maine.gov/LawMakerWeb/search.asp. The Weekly Legislative Report is also available on the Internet at the House home page at http://legislature.maine.gov/house/house/ under the “Documents” tab.)

Mid-Maine Chamber names customer service specialist

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Deborah Hellman

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce, located in Waterville, welcomes Deborah Hellman as its new customer service specialist. Deborah has been named to the position, replacing Katelyn Hood, who worked for the chamber just under one year.

Hellman had a 25-year career in the aviation industry, focusing on passenger service and ground handling operations. She most recently was an innkeeper at two different prestigious bed and breakfasts in Portland. In 2022, she relocated to central Maine.

Deborah graduated from Sidney High School, in Sidney, Ohio, and Sinclair Community College, in Dayton, Ohio. She received an associate degree in applied science in aviation administration.

Included in her new duties as customer service specialist will be customer service, human resources, collections, supplies and equipment maintenance, and general administrative duties. She will also participate in many of the chamber’s signature events.

Mid-Maine Chamber President and CEO Kimberly Lindlof said of Hellman: “Debbie joins us as she settles down and moves into a new home in our region. She is a shining example of one who chooses the quality of life that our region has to offer, and we are delighted to have her join our growing team of do-ers. She greets everyone that she meets with a smile on her face and a willingness to assist.”

Hellman resides in Winslow with her four-legged furry son, Ollie.

EVENTS: All Saints ten mile yard sale

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On May 19 and 20, the annual 10-mile yard sale winds its way from Skowhegan to Cornville. At All Saints Episcopal Church on, 169 Malbons Mills Road, Skowhegan, you will find free activities, big bargins and, of course, food.

All Saints has many vendors to check out. From baby items to household items and jewelry. Under the tent you will find free make and take fairy garden demonstrations with Billie Sherman at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., on Saturday. The Climate Change Lobby will help anyone with Efficiency Maine information on heat pumps, new windows and insulation. Geeze Louise, That’s a Wrap, has her hand cut fries, muffins, coffee and wraps. All Saints Grill will have breakfast sandwiches and hot dogs.

All profit from the yard sale will help facilitate All Saints Contemplation Garden that will be open to the public. Call 207-431-2118 for vending spaces.

Browntail moth update (May 2023)

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Browntail moth caterpillars can be identified by the two distinctive orange dots at the tail end and white tufts along the sides.

We’ve had some wonderful sunny and warm weather this past week; which means that many browntail moth host plants have been continuing to produce leaves and flower buds. However, this also means that there is more food available for hungry browntail caterpillars. With this in mind, it may not be surprising that we documented the caterpillars nearly doubling in size at almost all of our monitoring sites. Their growth at this time of the year is expected and is related to the caterpillars’ increased metabolism and appetite.

Each time a caterpillar grows larger, they have to shed the outer layer of their bodies (exoskeleton), a process called molting. Oftentimes, caterpillars will eat these old outer layers, but sometimes you can see the old outer layers on their winter web. As the caterpillars grow, they will molt a few more times, and therefore will have more toxic hairs on their bodies. Please take caution while performing outdoor yardwork near trees that have browntail caterpillars to avoid contracting a rash from the toxic hairs – wear long sleeves, eye protection, and gloves.

As we mentioned in last week’s update, eastern tent caterpillar is a native caterpillar that often gets confused with browntail caterpillar. At this time, both species of caterpillars are building their silk tents right now. Eastern tent caterpillar webs start small in the ‘crook’ of the tree where the branch meets the trunk or where branches join together. These tents can grow quite large, reaching around the size of a football. Right now, the eastern tent caterpillar tents are roughly the size of an adult hand and the white silk is much denser than browntail silk tents. Remember, browntail tents always stay on the smaller side and are often on the tips of the tree branches.

So far, we have not found evidence of any pathogens causing disease in browntail caterpillars at our monitoring sites. Some signs of pathogens may be:

• White/yellow fungal spores on caterpillars
• Swollen, puffy caterpillars
• Liquid expulsion of the caterpillar guts (often the caterpillar rests in an upside-down “V” shape)
• Dead caterpillars.

EVENTS: National Poppy Day is May 26, 2023

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May 26, 2023 is National Poppy Day. Members of American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit #39, Madison, will be distributing bright red poppies in exchange for a donation throughout the month of May. The Flanders Fields poppy has become an internationally known and recognized symbol of the lives sacrificed in war and the hope that none died in vain. The American Legion Family called upon Congress to proclaim the Friday before Memorial Day as National Poppy Day, which was officially designated as such in 2017.

Honor our fallen warriors and contribute to the continuing needs of our veterans on National Poppy Day, May 27, 2022

“Wearing the poppy on National Poppy Day and throughout Memorial Day weekend is one small way to honor and remember our fallen warriors who willingly served our nation and made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom,” said American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit #39 President Karen Lytle “We must never forget.”

The poppy also honors hospitalized and disabled veterans who handcraft many of the red, crepe paper flowers. Making the poppies provides a financial and therapeutic benefit to the veterans, as well as a benefit to thousands of other veterans.

When The American Legion Family adopted the poppy as its memorial flower in the early 1920s, the blood-red icon became an enduring symbol of honor for the sacrifices of our veterans from the battlefields of France in World War I to today’s global war on terror. The American Legion Auxiliary raises about $4 million each year distributing poppies throughout the nation, with 100 percent of the funds raised going directly to help veterans, military, and their families.

The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) is a community of volunteers serving veterans, military, and their families. Our members also support the mission of The American Legion in improving the quality of life for our nation’s veterans. The more than 600,000 ALA members across the country volunteer millions of hours annually and raise millions of dollars in service to veterans, military, and their families. Founded in 1919, the ALA is one of the oldest patriotic membership organizations in the U.S.A. To learn more and to volunteer, join, and donate, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org or if you like to join a local unit, contact Robin Turek, President, American Legion Auxiliary, Tardiff-Belanger Unit #39, PO Box 325, Madison, ME 04950.

Mid-Maine Chamber names new marketing director

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Bridget Campbell

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce, located in Waterville, welcomes Bridget Campbell as its new marketing and membership director. Bridget will be replacing Brandi Meisner, who was VP of Operations, and has left to work for her family businesses, Maine Cedar Hot Tubs and Skowhegan Wooden Rule Co., following two years in her position.

Campbell, who was advertising operations manager for the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel, had served 27 years over two different time periods throughout her newspaper career in various creative and management roles.

A graduate of Waterville Senior High School, in Waterville, Campbell graduated from the University of Southern Maine with a degree in communications and a minor in art. Campbell began her career at the newspaper as a graphic designer in 1985, creating ads by hand, prior to computers, winning numerous awards for her designs. In 1996 she started her own business, Papermoon Graphics, where she assisted many local businesses with their graphic design needs. During this time, she also followed one of her other passions, theater, as set designer and technical director for Waterville Senior High School Thespian Troupe 2926, as well as being in and involved with many productions at the Waterville Opera House. Campbell later worked at the Waterville Opera House as production manager and box office manager. Her latest employment prior to coming to the chamber was as advertising manager for the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel.

Included in her new duties at the chamber is new member procurement and retention, marketing and communications of the numerous chamber events and programs through print and social media platforms, website development and maintenance, tourism promotions, and the production of the Better Living in Mid-Maine Map and Guidebook, among other duties.

Mid-Maine Chamber President and CEO Kimberly Lindlof said of Campbell, “Bridget brings a vast knowledge of marketing expertise, management experience and business connectivity to our team. Staff and volunteers alike are pleased to welcome her onboard.”

Campbell resides in Winslow with her husband, John. They have a daughter, Haley, who is assistant creative director for Thomas College, in Waterville.

LEGISLATIVE REPORT as of Thursday, May 4, 2023

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(photo by Eric W. Austin)

L.D. 1725, S.P. 689

An Act to Strengthen Legislative Oversight of Government Agencies and Programs by Providing the Government Oversight Committee Access to Confidential Records. (EMERGENCY) (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)

L.D. 1737, H.P. 1116

An Act to Provide up to $5,000 in Property Tax Relief to Veterans. (Presented by Representative HYMES of Waldo)

L.D. 1745, H.P. 1124

An Act to Support Public Health by Protecting Certain Activities Conducted Under Comprehensive Community Drug Checking Initiatives. (Presented by Representative LaROCHELLE of Augusta)

L.D. 1751, S.P. 696

An Act to Maximize Federal Funding in Support of Emergency Medical Services. (Presented by Senator CURRY of Waldo)

L.D. 1752, S.P. 697

Resolve, to Prepare Preapproved Building Types. (Presented by Senator POULIOT of Kennebec)

L.D. 1754, S.P. 700

Resolve, to Establish the Commission to Study the Delivery of Services to Children and Families. (EMERGENCY) (Presented by Senator CURRY of Waldo)

L.D. 1755, S.P. 701

An Act to Exempt All Youth Development Nonprofit Organizations from Sales Tax and the Service Provider Tax. (Presented by Senator CURRY of Waldo)

L.D. 1757, S.P. 703

An Act to Amend the Laws Governing the Reporting and Tracking of Adult Use Cannabis. (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)

Copies of the Bills may be obtained from the Document Room, First Floor, State House, Augusta, Maine 04333-0002 – Ph: 207-287-1408. Bill text, bill status and roll call information are available on the Internet at http://legislature.maine.gov/LawMakerWeb/search.asp. The Weekly Legislative Report is also available on the Internet at the House home page at http://legislature.maine.gov/house/house/ under the “Documents” tab.).

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Legislative bills submitted by area senators & representatives as of Friday, April 28, 2023

L.D. 1787, H.P. 1150

Resolve, Directing the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to Convene a Stakeholder Group Tasked with a Comprehensive Overhaul and Modernization of the State Subdivision Statutes. (Presented by Representative DUCHARME of Madison

L.D. 1818, S.P. 733

An Act Regarding Port Facilities Relating to Offshore Wind Power Projects. (Presented by Senator CURRY of Waldo)

L.D. 1819, S.P. 734

An Act to Create the Maine Medical Cannabis Advisory Commission and the Medical Cannabis Alternative Health Board. (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)

L.D. 1823, S.P. 739

An Act to Respect and Protect the Right to Food. (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)

L.D. 1824, S.P. 740

Resolve, to Establish the Commission to Study the Constitution of Maine. (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)

L.D. 1828, S.P. 74

An Act Regarding Enhanced 9-1-1 Public Safety Answering Points. (EMERGENCY) (Presented by Senator LaFOUNTAIN of Kennebec

L.D. 1832, H.P. 1164

An Act to Require Reimbursement of Fees for Treatment Rendered by Public and Private Ambulance Services. (EMERGENCY) (Presented by Representative CYRWAY of Albion)

L.D. 1842, H.P. 1174

Resolve, to Support Energy Upgrades at Maine Public Schools and Ensure That New School Construction Meets Current Energy Efficiency Standards. (Presented by Representative LaROCHELLE of Augusta)

L.D. 1847, S.P. 748

An Act to Modify the Visual Impact Standards for Offshore Wind Port Development. (Governor’s Bill) (Presented by Senator CURRY of Waldo)

(Copies of the Bills may be obtained from the Document Room, First Floor, State House, Augusta, Maine 04333-0002 – Ph: 207-287-1408. Bill text, bill status and roll call information are available on the Internet at http://legislature.maine.gov/LawMakerWeb/search.asp. The Weekly Legislative Report is also available on the Internet at the House home page at http://legislature.maine.gov/house/house/ under the “Documents” tab.)

Adding a deck to your home

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Adding a deck to your home not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also provides an inviting space for outdoor activities and gatherings. In Maine, with its harsh climate and stunning natural beauty, building a deck requires thoughtful planning and consideration. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when adding a new deck, the costs associated with such a project, the options for DIY or hiring a contractor, and how to build a deck that withstands Maine’s weather conditions.

Factors to consider when adding a new deck:

  • Purpose: Determine the primary purpose of your deck, whether it’s for entertaining, relaxation, or enjoying the outdoors. This will help you decide on the size, layout, and design of the deck.
  • Location: Choose a location that balances sun exposure, shade, and privacy while considering the prevailing winds, views, and proximity to your home’s entrance.
  • Materials: Select decking materials based on durability, maintenance requirements, and compatibility with Maine’s climate. Pressure-treated wood, composite materials, and tropical hardwoods are popular choices.
  • Building codes and permits: Familiarize yourself with local building codes and obtain any necessary permits before starting the project. Codes may dictate the size, height, and railing requirements for your deck.
  • Budget: Establish a budget to guide your decisions on materials, design, and whether to hire a contractor or tackle the project yourself.

The cost of building a deck varies depending on factors such as materials, design, and labor. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $15 and $35 per square foot for a basic pressure-treated wood deck. Composite and hardwood materials generally cost more but require less maintenance over time. The overall cost will also depend on the complexity of the design and any additional features such as built-in seating, railings, or lighting.

DIY vs. hiring a contractor: If you have carpentry skills and experience with home improvement projects, building a deck yourself can save on labor costs. However, constructing a deck requires precision and adherence to building codes, which may prove challenging for some homeowners. Hiring a contractor ensures professional results and compliance with local regulations. Before selecting a contractor, obtain multiple quotes, check references, and verify licenses and insurance coverage.

Keep these considerations in mind when building a deck to last in Maine’s harsh climate:

  • Choose the right materials: Opt for materials that resist moisture, decay, and insect damage, such as pressure-treated wood, composite decking, or tropical hardwoods like ipe or mahogany.
  • Proper drainage and ventilation: Ensure adequate spacing between deck boards and a slight slope away from your home to promote water drainage. Adequate ventilation beneath the deck is essential to prevent moisture buildup and potential damage.
  • Protective finishes: Apply a high-quality water-repellent finish or stain to wooden decks to protect against moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and resealing, will prolong the life of your deck.
  • Snow and ice management: Maine’s snowy winters can be hard on decks. Promptly remove snow and ice to prevent moisture damage, and avoid using metal shovels or ice-melting products containing salt, which can harm the deck’s surface.

Additional considerations:

  • Safety features: Install railings, especially for elevated decks, to ensure safety. Choose materials and designs that complement your deck and meet local building codes.
  • Accessibility: Consider adding ramps or wider doorways to accommodate wheelchairs or strollers, ensuring that your deck is accessible to everyone.
  • Lighting: Incorporate outdoor lighting into your deck design for safety and ambiance. Solar-powered or low-voltage LED lights are energy-efficient options.

Adding a deck to your Maine home can enhance its value and provide a beautiful outdoor living space for relaxation and entertainment. By carefully considering factors such as purpose, location, materials, and budget, you can plan a deck that suits your needs and complements your home’s style. When choosing between DIY and hiring a contractor, weigh your experience, available time, and desire for professional results.

Building a deck that lasts in Maine’s harsh climate requires selecting the right materials, ensuring proper drainage and ventilation, applying protective finishes, and managing snow and ice. Don’t forget to pay attention to safety features, accessibility, and lighting to create a welcoming and functional outdoor space.

Investing time and effort in planning, constructing, and maintaining a deck will reward you with a beautiful, durable addition to your home, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of Maine’s outdoors for years to come.

Embrace energy efficiency with heat pumps

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Maine residents are increasingly choosing heat pumps to improve their home’s energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. In this article, we’ll discuss what heat pumps are, their benefits, and the costs associated with upgrading a house with a new heat pump.

What is a heat pump, and how does it differ from traditional systems? Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling by transferring heat between the indoors and outdoors. Unlike traditional systems that generate heat or cool air directly, heat pumps move heat, making them more energy-efficient. They extract heat from the outdoor air during winter and expel indoor heat outdoors during summer.

Benefits of installing heat pumps in Maine:

  • Cost savings: Heat pumps use less energy than traditional systems, reducing electricity and energy costs.
  • Energy efficiency: Heat pumps reduce your home’s carbon footprint and often qualify for federal tax credits and local utility rebates.
  • Versatility: Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, eliminating the need for separate systems.

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using heat pumps over electric, wood heat, or traditional air conditioning:

Advantages:

  • Lower operating costs
  • Improved energy efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions
  • Less maintenance compared to wood-burning systems
  • Enhanced indoor air quality
  • Quiet operation

Disadvantages:

  • Higher upfront costs
  • Limited effectiveness in extreme cold temperatures
  • May require additional insulation or air sealing upgrades

The cost of upgrading with a new heat pump varies depending on the size, type, and installation factors, typically ranging between $4,000 and $7,000 for a ductless mini-split system, including installation. Obtain multiple quotes from local contractors and consider system size, efficiency ratings, and warranties when making a decision.

Heat pumps offer numerous benefits, including cost savings, energy efficiency, and versatility. While there are some drawbacks, such as higher upfront costs and potential limitations in extreme cold, proper planning and installation can help homeowners maximize the advantages of heat pump systems. With the growing focus on sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint, heat pumps represent a smart, environmentally friendly choice for Maine residents.

When choosing a new heat pump for your home, consider factors such as home size, insulation levels, and local climate when choosing a heat pump. A professional contractor can help you select the appropriate system and ensure optimal performance.

Statewide programs like Efficiency Maine offer rebates for qualifying heat pump systems, while federal tax credits and local utility incentives may also be available. Research and take advantage of these programs to offset the upfront costs.

Hire a reputable contractor with experience in heat pump installations, and ask for references and reviews from past clients. A well-installed heat pump system maximizes energy savings and ensures the longevity of your investment.

In conclusion, heat pumps present a compelling option for Maine homeowners looking to improve their home’s energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. By understanding the benefits and limitations of heat pumps, selecting the right system, and taking advantage of financial incentives, you can make a smart, environmentally friendly choice for year-round home comfort.

Seven mistakes to avoid when decluttering your home

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by Christina Giaquinto

The spring cleaning season is always such a great time to refresh your home and everyday lifestyle. Are you already planning to deep clean your carpets and rugs, clean all of your home’s windows, and wipe down all counters and cabinets? These are all fantastic steps to take, but have you thought about taking the time to declutter each room? You may not know it, but if you have a cluttered home, you are unknowingly hurting your mental wellbeing.

It’s true — clutter takes up physical space, uses your mental energy, and can amplify stress and anxiety. In my experience as the Professional Organizer and Brand Ambassador of Modular Closets (a DIY customizable closet system that organizes any space in your home), I have found that decluttering and organizing your home is one surefire way to live healthier and happier. That said, if you want to declutter your home this spring cleaning season, avoid these blunders:

Mistake #1: Thinking You Need to Throw Everything Away

Oftentimes, when one thinks of decluttering, they falsely assume that any and all clutter should just be thrown away. Their reasoning is that if articles of clothing and other clutter have been strewn around the home for a long time, the items are obviously not important and it would be easiest to just toss them out. However, don’t make this mistake, as it can lead to unnecessary waste in landfills. You may also have friends and family who would love the items you no longer want, or you can donate them to charitable causes that need them.

Mistake #2: Keeping an Item You Don’t Need

On that same note, don’t make the mistake of holding onto an article of clothing or other product because you think you might use it in the future. If the item has been sitting in the back of your closet or laying forgotten underneath your bed for months (or years!), then I recommend donating it, giving it away to a friend, or trying to sell it. You get the benefit of less clutter, and the item will go to someone who truly wants to use it. It’s a win-win for you both! Don’t let objects take over you — remember that you always control the items.

Mistake #3: Starting the Decluttering Process Without Planning Piles

I get it — when you finally decide to declutter and organize your home, it can be tempting to just go all-in and start tossing all the items strewn about into one box to sort through later. However, you will streamline the whole process if you plan out your plies first — you can designate a pile of items you will keep, a pile to donate, a pile to sell, and a pile to throw away. Then, you can sort all of the items as you go — then you can easily box up the piles to donate to Goodwill or another organization, place all the items in the “Throw Away” pile into a trash bag, etc.

Mistake #4: Decluttering With Everything Still in the Space

Many people make the mistake of decluttering their drawers, closets, and entire rooms with all of the items still in the space. Don’t commit this blunder, as you can really optimize the decluttering process by first emptying out the closet / room / space before sorting the items. You will be much more cognizant of the items you decide to place back in the space and consider more if you really want to hold onto certain items you haven’t used in a long time. Also, you won’t overlook items that may be hidden under others.

Mistake #5: Keeping Clutter for a Garage Sale That Isn’t on the Calendar

Garage sales are a fun and effective way to rid your home of items you no longer need, make a little profit, and give someone else the chance to enjoy your old items at a very low price — as the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure! However, if you want to hold a garage sale to sell your old items, it is absolutely key to schedule the day and time you plan to hold it. Otherwise, you may end up having to keep pushing the garage sale out as other obligations come up, all the while still holding onto a bunch of items cluttering up your space.

Mistake #6: Decluttering Without a Goal and Intention for Your Space

Having a goal you want to achieve for your space will further optimize the decluttering process. Do you finally want to sort through that jumbled junk drawer in your kitchen? Are you ready to organize all of the clothes in your master bedroom’s closet? Do you have a ton of makeup and other beauty products you really want to declutter and organize? Set your goal and declutter accordingly. This will prevent you from being distracted by any clutter in other spaces — as you achieve one goal, you can then set another goal for another space. One step at a time!

Mistake #7: Decluttering Without a Snack On Hand

Trust me, decluttering and organizing any space can be tiring! This is especially true if you are moving heavy boxes and equipment around. So keep your energy and momentum up by having a tasty snack nearby at all times. This can also make the process more fun and enjoyable!

To Wrap It All Up

Are you ready to declutter and organize your home this spring cleaning season? Good for you! You can make the decluttering process much more efficient by avoiding some common mistakes others make, like thinking you need to throw everything away, decluttering while everything is still in the space, and keeping clutter for a garage sale that isn’t yet on the calendar. Also, do not be so hard on yourself, because this process is a lot! The fact that you are working on your space to make it better is truly such an accomplishment. Good luck!

Christina Giaquinto is the Professional Organizer and Brand Ambassador of Modular Closets (DIY customizable closet units that organize any space in your home).