Technology

With the help of Amazon, a new 'smart home experience' sets up shop.

A shuttered Maine sawmill has been dismantled and shipped off to Russia, where it will be reassembled in a timber-rich region of Siberia, according to an article in the Kennebec Journal.

Between the North and South halls, New Product World and Inventors Spotlight, attendees at the 2012 National Hardware Show were once again presented with the fruits of innovation derived from hours of toil in garage workshops and corporate labs. It’s always hard to pick just a few favorites; the only way to see them all is to wander the aisles, shake your head, and say, “Why didn’t somebody think of that before?”

Sparks, Md.-based Lufkin has launched Hi-Viz 600 Series Power Tapes measuring tools for professional and do-it-yourself projects. The 600 Series Power Tapes are marketed as offering durability and a full-length blade coating for long-lasting markings. A double-riveted end hook with steel reinforcement enhances the tapes' longevity.

Lufkin is a brand of the Apex Tool Group.

Chicago-based hardware co-op True Value Co. promoted Eric Lane to the position of VP specialty businesses.

In his new post, Lane will oversee the co-op's Home & Garden Showplace, International, MRO - Maintenance, Repair and Operations, and the Rental Division including Grand Rental Station, Just Ask Rental and Taylor Rental.

Previously, Lane was business development director of retail growth. He replaces Fred Kirst, who retired Feb. 11. 

Kitson & Partners, a real estate development company based in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., has announced the purchase of Tuscany Reserve, an unfinished golf course community located in southwest Florida. The company plans to quickly resume construction on the project’s clubhouse facilities and luxury homes,

Jensen Distribution Services has announced the appointment of Chris Jensen as its new executive VP and chief business development officer, effective March 1.  Jensen, who started with the company in 2001, represents the fifth generation of the Jensen family that has owned and operated the business since its inception in 1883.