Loomis man's wood designs command clients from around the country

May 19, 2012 | For the 42,000-square-foot home of Dick and Mary Cabela, owners of Cabela’s, Alexander has carved several mirror frames as well as pieces for the Cabelas’ Roman and Egyptian rooms. LOOMIS — Technically speaking, Loomis artist Bruce Alexander, 72, considers himself a sculptor who works in wood, not a wood carver. Alexander’s OK with the carver tag — he has carved his share of decoys — but his art has advanced well beyond the hobby and folk-art stage. He has also carved a fireplace mantel and several doors for their home in Vail, Colo. His carvings command thousands of dollars and can be found in the homes of America’s wealthiest business moguls and sportsmen. Today he studies the Old Masters for inspiration and his varied commissions include everything from intricately carved architectural elements to detailed reliefs of African game animals and their life-and-death struggles for survival. He sticks to his carving niche and leaves the final carpentry to other professionals. Read more »

YouthBuild teaches construction skills while rescuing old house

May 19, 2012 | Carefully, they worked in teams to pull out the old wood and prepare the ceiling for drywall. Although it's a small house, with 1100 square feet, it still carries some charm, with a Southern-style open-air porch, an antique fireplace, a large kitchen

Healdsburg pair's ultimate DIY project

May 19, 2012 | An antique marble fireplace graces the wall of the main parlor. Bathrooms are functioning. The pair are now racing to finish the first two floors in time to secure conventional financing before their short-term loan expires next June.