Some colored paper and glue are all you need to dress up clear-glass candle holders for Halloween. Find instructions at www.perfectglue.com Click on "Seasonal Projects" to learn how to make invitations, party hats, table runners, garlands and goodie baskets.
Showcase on the shore
The Coastal Living Idea House remains open through March 20 at MiraBay in Apollo Beach, Hillsborough County. The 4,700-square-foot showcase home is a blend of crisp and relaxed, formal home and barefoot beach cottage. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $10 each, two for $15, at the door. Directions: From Interstate 75 southbound, take Exit 246. Turn west on Big Bend Road, then south on U.S. 41 to MiraBay, 41/2 miles ahead on the right. Information: (813) 645-1000.
Wish book for tool lovers
Tool lovers are already starting to compile their lists so when they're asked, "What do you want for Christmas?" they'll be ready with answers. For them, Taunton's 2005 Tool Guide: A Buyer's Companion (130 pages, $9.99, on newsstands), from the editors of Fine Homebuilding and Fine Woodworking, is the bible: reviews of 316 power and hand tools, by brand name, with editors' "best overall" and "best value" choices, pros and cons, and readers' ratings. Who knew there were so many factors to consider in selecting a tape measure? Or how to choose among the array of cordless impact drivers at the home center? Get out the pad of sticky notes and start annotating this magazine for Santa.
Post-storm repair info online
Confirm a contractor's state license, read updates on the availability of building materials, learn about licensing and permitting issues, find advice on repairing after the summer's hurricanes: All this and more is at www.dcnonline.org the Web site of the Disaster Contractors Network. The network was created by Florida State University, state agencies and professional organizations and is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Hurricane class canceled
The class on "Repairing and Reinforcing Your Home After a Storm," scheduled for today at the Hillsborough County Extension Office in Seffner, has been canceled because of insufficient enrollment.
