Mitigation: Important but Often Not Embraced

Defined as actions taken to prevent or reduce the risk to life, property, social and economic activities, and natural resources from natural hazards, mitigation includes such activities as: Complying with or exceeding flood plain management regulations. Enforcing stringent building codes, flood-proofing requirements, seismic design standards and wind-bracing requirements for new construction or repairing existing buildings Adopting zoning ordinances that steer development away from areas subject to flooding, storm surge or coastal erosion. Retrofitting public buildings to withstand hurricane-strength winds or ground shaking. Acquiring damaged homes or businesses in flood-prone areas and returning the property to open space, wetlands or recreational use. Revamping of our infrastructure, roadways, utilities to better meet our needs during a recovery period. Mitigation also involves a broad spectrum of players outside the traditional emergency management circle. Among others, these parties might include land use planners, construction and building officials (both public and private), business owners, insurance companies, community leaders, politicians and individual home owners. As important as mitigation is, it is frequently looked-upon as a "cost," and is, therefore, not always embraced by all of the players. Perhaps you've had some experiences you'd like to share in this area?

BROOKSTONE BUILDERS, INC. RECEIVES 2012 BEST OF MANCHESTER AWARD

Manchester, NH – (March 14, 2012) Brookstone Builders, Inc., construction managers and general contractors headquartered in Manchester, NH, recently announced that they have been selected for the 2012 Best of Manchester Award
in the Commercial and Office Building Contractors category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA).

The USCA "Best of Local Business" Awards Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they deem to have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community. Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category, with awards based on quality rather than quantity.

“We’re very happy to be recognized by the USCA,” said Paula Scales, Brookstone Builders’ President. “We have always been committed to quality, integrity and serving the needs of our customers in a straightforward way.”

A New York City based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America, the USCA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their communities. The organization’s mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.

A woman-owned enterprise founded in 1984, Brookstone Builders provides commercial, industrial, and design/build solutions throughout northern New England. The company has also been involved in a wide range of specialty and renovation projects. For additional information please visit www.brookbuild.com  or contact Ms. Paula
Scales at (603) 641-9455.     ###