L2 Acoustic Lighting Chosen for Menchaca Elementary SchoolMarch 2022

Menchaca Elementary School is a design-build project in Austin, Texas that opened in January 2020.

The 98,600-square-foot campus replaced a dark and badly ventilated aging campus, and evolved through an extensive process engaging teachers, parents, and students. One of the first design-build public K-12 schools in Austin, Menchaca Elementary School was originally conceived as a single building with interior circulation. However, with extensive community engagement, which included a Campus Architectural Team and current students, the design led to three separate buildings surrounding a courtyard brimming with oak trees.

Menchaca Principal Eliza Loyola describes the school as an “industrial modern campus with a lot of natural elements.” The exteriors are steel and gray, with a focus on nature around the campus.

The two main buildings are linked by covered walkways to a shared, two-story library and media center with makerspaces and quiet study areas. Teaming and collaboration spaces are conveniently located throughout the campus, and include four “learning villages”–groupings of studio spaces and meeting areas.

“The learning village is a really unique concept that Austin ISD is implementing,” stated LPA Design Director of K-12, Kate Mraw. “Each of the learning villages includes studios, collaboration space, and small group rooms, all with transparent or operable connections to each other, where students can create their own learning experiences.”

When the architectural designers established their specifications for Menchaca’s perfect lighting solutions, Lumetta’s L2 Tapered Acoustic Pendants were the product of choice. The cone shaped lights were selected for use throughout the school’s interconnecting hallways.

The juxtaposition of brightly colored antimicrobial Lumenate® interior diffusers, such as turquoise “Caribbean”, bright “Sunflower”, vibrant “Orange”, and mysterious “Pomegranate” against the aluminum exterior diffusers provides for an understated yet bold modern look and washes the space in a wide arc of light.

The pendants hold a universal aesthetic appeal and captivate the children with their wild and whimsical colors. As an added bonus, the fixtures also keep the noise level down with their sound absorbing acoustic felt outer shades. With the harmonious blend of form and function, Lumetta’s L2 Tapered Acoustic Pendants prove 1 + 1 equals 10!

For more information about our L2 Tapered Acoustic Pendants, please see: https://lumetta.com/collection/acoustic/

Sales Agency: Spectrum Lighting

Specifier: LPA Design Studios

Costea Photography

COVID-19 Testing: What You Need to KnowMarch 2022

There are Two Types of COVID-19 Tests

Viral tests detect the virus SARS-CoV-2, that causes COVID-19, and Antibody tests detect antibodies in your body after contracting the virus or after getting vaccinated.

Discuss your test results with your healthcare provider. COVID-19 testing is one of many risk-reduction measures, along with vaccination, masking, and physical distancing, that protect you and others by reducing the chances of spreading COVID-19.

Viral Tests

• A viral test detects if you are currently infected with COVID-19, using samples that come from your nose or mouth. There are two types of viral tests: rapid tests and laboratory tests.
• Rapid Point-of-Care tests are performed or interpreted by someone other than the individual being tested and can be performed in minutes (including antigen and some Nucleic Acid Amplification tests–also called NAATs).
  • Self-tests are rapid tests that can be taken anywhere, are easy to use, and produce rapid results.
• Laboratory tests can take days to complete and include RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) and other types of NAATs.

Antibody Tests

An antibody test can detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in your blood and tell you if you’ve had a past infection with COVID-19. Antibodies are proteins that your immune system makes to help fight infection and protect you from getting sick in the future.

If you get an antibody test after receiving a vaccine, you might test positive by some (but not all) antibody tests. This depends on which type of antibody the specific test detects.

Antibody testing is not currently recommended to determine:

• If you have a current infection.
• If you have immunity to SARS-CoV-2 following COVID-19 vaccination.
• Whether you need to get a booster following COVID-19 vaccination.
• Whether you need to quarantine after a known or suspected exposure to COVID-19.

For Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests: https://special.usps.com/testkits

For more information: https://bit.ly/3Kpa7cg

New Outdoor SilhouettesMarch 2022

Our versatile line of contemporary laser-cut LED exterior sconces complements any space and is ideal for all your outdoor lighting needs. With its modern appearance and clean lines, these water resistant IP65 wall sconces sublimely accent and illuminate your surroundings. 

Our Outdoor Silhouette blends harmoniously with our interior Silhouette lighting to seamlessly merge indoor/outdoor space. Laser-cut embellished metal panels provide a beautiful starry light for porch, patio, entryway, balcony, or stairway. Streamlined with a crisp pattern and featuring diffusing light from the integrated LED bulb. 

Available as an outdoor option for all 24 of our Silhouette Collection Sconces 

• Variety of sizes, panel designs, and exterior powder coat finishes 
• Extensive selection of Lumenate® diffusers 
• IP65 water resistance rated 
• Durable outdoor adhesives and fasteners

Lumetta Press Release Outdoor Silhouette

View Collection

Partner Testimonial – Hossley Lighting and Power SolutionsMarch 2022

Interior designers are very much drawn to Lumetta for the expansive finish and color options which lend to endless creativity for them. Lumetta’s fixtures deliver big impact in design without the big cost. Equally as important are the antimicrobial materials that can be cleaned and wiped down. With recent enhanced cleaning protocols, this is very important, especially in healthcare facilities and schools.

Lumetta has always been very responsive when we need pricing or to just answer questions about the products. I always look for opportunities to help specify Lumetta because I know the design team and owner will be very pleased with the installation and lasting quality!

Kim Smith, LC, LEED AP BD+C
Specification Sales

Hossley Lighting and Power Solutions

Donate to Ukraine Relief Efforts: How to HelpMarch 2022

As Russia continues to invade Ukraine, we are all committed to helping people seeking shelter, security, and peace. Please donate today to Ukraine relief efforts and aid Ukraine citizens in this time of crisis.

To donate to a specific charity and help Ukraine, please user this link to utilize only top-rated charities: https://www.charitywatch.org/…/top-rated-charities…

GoFundMe has also put together a list of several verified fundraising efforts for Ukraine: www.gofundme.com/c/act/donate-to-ukraine-relief

Locally: Cardi’s Furniture in MA and RI is accepting urgently needed items that will be sent directly to the Ukraine. For their locations and a list of items: www.cardis.com/pages/humanitarian-aid-for-ukraine

Thank you in advance for all you can do!

The Lumetta Team

Photo ContestMarch 2022

OPEN CALL: Show Us What You’ve Got! – Enter to Win $300

Here’s Your Chance to Share More of Your Lumetta Lighting Installation Photos and Enter for a Chance to Win a $300 VISA Gift Card.

We want to see your Lumetta installation photos and videos and hear about your experience working with our lighting solutions!

Whether you’ve participated in our contest before, or you’re a complete newbie, Lumetta wants to see what you’ve got! All it takes is a few minutes of your time to show off what you’ve accomplished!

We’ve had a chance to excitedly review your fabulous Lumetta Photo Contest entries, and our distinguished panel of judges chose the winner of our previous contest–

Benny Williams of Lighting Associates, Inc.

East Central Regional Hospital’s Dining Area Utilizing Lumetta’s L2 Taper Luminaires

Credits: Architecture & Interiors–Dickinson Architects, Photography–Steve Bracci Photography

Now is the time to share more of your Lumetta lighting installation images and enter for a chance to win a $300 VISA gift card.

For every Lumetta installation project photo that you submit, you’ll be entered in our drawing for a $300 VISA gift card. Winners will be selected 90 days from our contest start date, will be contacted via email and announced on Lumetta.com.

Once again, Lumetta’s esteemed judges will choose the winning entry.

Now Show Us What You’ve Got!

Please send high resolution photos to lwistow@lumetta.com.

The #lumettainstallproject contest starts March 1, 2022 and ends on May 31, 2022. Winner will be announced on June 6, 2022.

To Enter On…

Facebook:
please post the photo on our page and include #lumettainstallproject in your comment.
Twitter:
tag us with @Lumettalighting and include #lumettainstallproject in the tweet.
Instagram:
tag us at @lumettalighting and include #lumettainstallproject in your comment.

Then ask your friends to share and retweet.

The #lumettainstallproject contest starts March 1, 2022 and ends on May 31, 2022. Winner will be announced on June 6, 2022.

The Fine Print:
The photo must belong to you.
You must be at least 18 years old.
You must have permission to use the image of anyone who appears in the photograph.
Photo must be family-friendly.
Lumetta has the right to reuse photo entries with credit to the photographer.
We may use the image in our advertising as well.
You may enter as many times as you like, preferably with different installation photographs.
Winner is selected at the sole discretion of Lumetta.

Covid UpdateFebruary 2022

COVID-19 Self-Tests

COVID-19 self-tests allow for rapid results and can be taken anywhere, regardless of your vaccination status or whether you are symptomatic.

The self-tests detect any present infection and can be referred to as “home tests,” “at-home tests,” or “over-the-counter (OTC) tests.”
Results of self-tests are available within minutes as opposed to lab-based tests which take days to confirm.
Self-tests along with vaccination, wearing a mask, and physical distancing, help to protect everyone by lessening the chances of spreading COVID-19.
Self-tests will not detect antibodies from a previous infection, nor will they measure your immunity levels.
Ordering an At-Home COVID-19 Self-Test

·       Order free self-tests at COVIDtests.govexternal.

Free self-tests are also available through local health departments.
Buy self-tests online, in pharmacies or retail stores. Private health insurance may reimburse the cost of purchasing self-tests. Visit FDA’s websiteexternal for a list of authorized tests.
If you’re not able to obtain a self-test, visit a community testing site or call your local health department for more options.
How to Use an At-Home COVID-19 Self-Test

·       Read the complete manufacturer’s instructions before using the test.

If you do not follow the manufacturer’s instructions, your test results may be incorrect.
Wash your hands prior to self-testing.
Collect a nasal specimen and test that specimen.
Wash your hands after self-testing.
When to Take an At-Home Self-Test

Test yourself immediately if you experience any COVID-19 symptoms.
Test yourself at least 5 days after exposure to anyone with COVID-19.
If You Test Positive

·       The test detected the virus and you have an infection.

Stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in your home.
Tell your close contacts.
Wear a well-fitted mask when around others. If available, an N95 or KN95 respirator is recommended.
Watch for symptoms. If you have any warning signs, seek emergency care immediately.
Tell your healthcare provider. Contact them as soon as possible if:
Your symptoms get worse.
You are more likely to get very sick because you are an older adult or have an underlying medical condition. Possible treatment may be available for you.
You have questions about your isolation.
If You Test Negative

·       The test did not detect the virus but does not rule out an infection.

Some self-tests are designed to be used in a series (also known as serial testing).
Consider repeating the test 24 to 48 hours later.
Multiple negative tests increase the chances that you are not infected with the virus.
If You Test Negative for COVID-19, Test Again 1-2 Days After Your First Test

If you are going to an indoor event or a gathering.
Immediately before attending the gathering, or as close to the time of the event as possible.
This is especially important before gathering with anyone who is an older adult, at risk of severe disease, immunocompromised, or not up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines. This includes children who cannot get vaccinated yet.

If you think your test results may be incorrect, contact the test manufacturer for assistance, consider taking another at-home test, or contact a healthcare provider for help.

Need More Information? Find videos of manufacturer instructions for your specific self-test.

For more information: https://bit.ly/3BnAyvw

A Message from Our PresidentJanuary 2022

I’m proud of Lumetta’s successes over the years, particularly for always introducing innovative new lighting solutions and for expanding our product portfolio in 2021 with our Task and Divider Collections.

In the year ahead, we look forward to our prolific team’s visionary philosophy and will continue to add exceptionally designed luminaires to our collections.

Thank you to our customers and our employees. Your continued enthusiasm and incredible support have made us what we are today. Thank you all!

Wishing you a successful 2022!

Ian Prichett
President and CEO
Lumetta, Inc.

Latest Information on the Omicron VariantJanuary 2022

The CDC is working with state and local public health officials to monitor the spread of Omicron. As of December 20, 2021, Omicron has been detected in most states and is rapidly increasing the total amount of COVID-19 cases throughout the US.

We don’t yet know how easily the virus spreads, the severity of illness it causes, or how well available vaccines and medications work against it.

Spread
The Omicron variant likely will spread more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus and it is unknown how easily Omicron spreads compared to Delta. The CDC expects that anyone with Omicron infection can spread the virus to others, even if they are vaccinated or don’t have symptoms.

Severe Illness

More data are needed to know if Omicron infections cause more severe illness or death than infection with other variants.

Vaccines
Current vaccines are expected to protect against severe illness, hospitalizations, and deaths due to infection with the Omicron variant. However, breakthrough infections in people who are fully vaccinated are likely to occur. With other variants, like Delta, vaccines have remained effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. The recent emergence of Omicron further emphasizes the importance of vaccination and boosters.

Treatments

Scientists are working to determine how well existing treatments for COVID-19 work. Based on the changed genetic make-up of Omicron, some treatments are likely to remain effective while others may be less effective.

We Have the Tools to Fight Omicron

Vaccines

Vaccines remain the best public health measure to protect from COVID-19, slow transmission, and reduce the likelihood of new variants emerging.

• COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death.
• Scientists are investigating Omicron, including how protected fully vaccinated people will be against infection, hospitalization, and death.
• The CDC recommends that everyone 5 years and older protect themselves from COVID-19 by getting fully vaccinated.
• The CDC recommends that everyone ages 16 years and older get a booster shot after completing their primary COVID-19 vaccination series.
• You are eligible for a booster at 5 months after completing Pfizer-BioNTech primary series, 6 months after completing Moderna primary series, and 2 months after the initial J&J/Janssen vaccine. Individuals ages 16-17 are only eligible for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

Masks

Masks offer protection against all variants.

• The CDC continues to recommend wearing a mask in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high community transmission, regardless of vaccination status.
• The CDC provides advice about masks for people who want to learn more about what type of mask is right for them depending on their circumstances.

Testing

Tests can tell you if you are currently infected with COVID-19.

• Two types of tests are used to test for current infection: nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) and antigen tests.
• Individuals can use the COVID-19 Viral Testing Tool to help determine what kind of test to seek.
  • Additional tests would be needed to determine if your infection was caused by Omicron.
  • Visit your state, tribal, local, or territorial health department’s website to look for the latest local information on testing.
• Self-tests can be used at home or anywhere, are easy to use, and produce rapid results.
  • If your self-test has a positive result, stay at home or isolate for 10 days, wear a mask if you have contact with others, and call your healthcare provider.
  • If you have any questions about your self-test result, call your healthcare provider or public health department.

For more information: https://bit.ly/3sk19Hp

Berkshire Elementary School Gives Lumetta A+ for Its Class Act Lighting SolutionsJanuary 2022

Baltimore County Public Schools, located in Baltimore, MD, planned to reconstruct their Berkshire Elementary School. They recently designed the facilities as a prototype school, complete with media center, cafeteria, gymnasium and general classrooms.

GWWO Architects, also in Baltimore, was contracted to conceptualize and develop a setting that would achieve LEED Silver Certification—meaning it must include overall sustainability, use water efficiently, minimize energy in the atmosphere, minimize (reuse or recycle) materials and resources, and improver indoor environmental quality of air and lighting. The project’s sustainable elements included geothermal heating and cooling, recycled and sustainable materials, daylighting, LED light fixtures, and water-efficient plumbing and appliances.

The architectural firm chose Lumetta and Potomac Lighting to design and fabricate the lighting solutions. GWWO was confident that Lumetta’s products were the right choice as previous lighting projects completed with the manufacturer had been met with great satisfaction.

Lumetta’s easily cleaned diffusers, quick lead times, smooth delivery and installation, and their beautiful, sustainable products made them the architectural firm’s preferred choice for the project. Potomac Lighting’s Principal President, Sue Noble, worked closely with GWWO to develop precise specifications for the fabrication and installation of Lumetta’s Taper Pendants and Drum Pendants, which guaranteed a lively, sustainable atmosphere.

Lumetta’s Alluring Lighting Illuminates 121 Larchmere ApartmentsJanuary 2022

121 Larchmere Apartments, a modern, upscale living facility and a LEED Silver Certified apartment community located in Cleveland, OH, had previously been an abandoned storefront. The massive building was in rapid decline until First Interstate Properties, with support from local government and the neighborhood community, began their extensive renovations of the housing project.

The beautiful four-story, 88-unit apartment residence is located in the heart of the Larchmere Neighborhood. The building offers its residents spacious accommodations in a vibrant neighborhood that draws visitors from all over the Northeast Ohio region.

During the conversion, it was decided that Lumetta’s Echo Grey pendants were to be specified to illuminate the seating area in the lobby. Fabricated from welded steel / aluminum / acrylic with washable, antimicrobial Lumenate® diffusers, these fixtures were an eye-catching combination of light + geometry + pattern and complemented the interior décor for a chic, ultramodern look.

Lumetta’s Echo pendants were chosen because the luminaires creatively illuminate any area in a soft yet vivid light, while projecting graceful patterns with a seamless look of both illumination and texture into the space. Echo’s proprietary patterns, colors, and finish choices have been identified with a keen eye towards aesthetics and offer designers many options for creating dramatic and coordinated interiors.

The stylish pendants proudly hang in 121 Larchmere’s lobby, suggesting subtle movement and delivering a close encounter with the art of light. Each fixture’s Lumenate® shade creates lighting interpretations as limitless as the imagination.

Whether you want to enhance the look and feel of a space through pendants, surface mounts, or wall sconces, the Echo Collection complements and enhances like no other luminaire.

N.Vandervoort Photography

Omicron Variant: What You Need to KnowDecember 2021

On November 24, 2021, a new Covid-19 variant was reported to the World Health Organization. This new variant was first detected on November 11, 2021 in Botswana and on November 14, 2021 in South Africa.

On November 26, 2021, WHO named the variant Omicron and classified it as a Variant of Concern (VOC). On November 30, 2021, the US designated Omicron as a Variant of Concern, and on December 1, 2021 the first confirmed US case of Omicron was identified.

We don’t know yet how easily it can spread, the severity of illness it causes, or how well current vaccines and medications work against it. Despite the increased attention of Omicron, Delta continues to be the main variant circulating in the US. […]

What We Know About Omicron: Infection and Spread

• How easily does Omicron spread?
  The Omicron variant likely will spread more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus and how easily Omicron spreads compared to Delta remains unknown. CDC expects that anyone with Omicron infection can spread the virus to others, even if they are vaccinated or don’t have symptoms.
• Will Omicron cause more severe illness?
  More data are needed to know if Omicron infections, and especially reinfections and breakthrough infections in people who are fully vaccinated, cause more severe illness or death than infection with other variants.
• Will vaccines work against Omicron?
  Current vaccines are expected to protect against severe illness, hospitalizations, and deaths due to infection with the Omicron variant. However, breakthrough infections in people who are fully vaccinated are likely to occur. With other variants, like Delta, vaccines have remained effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. The recent emergence of Omicron further emphasizes the importance of vaccination and boosters.
• Will treatments work against Omicron?
  Scientists are working to determine how well existing treatments for COVID-19 work. Based on the changed genetic make-up of Omicron, some treatments are likely to remain effective while others may be less effective.

We Have the Tools to Fight Omicron

Vaccines remain the best public health measure to protect people from COVID-19, slow transmission, and reduce the likelihood of new variants emerging. COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. Scientists are currently investigating Omicron, including how protected fully vaccinated people will be against infection, hospitalization, and death. CDC recommends that everyone 5 years and older protect themselves from COVID-19 by getting fully vaccinated. CDC recommends that everyone ages 18 years and older should get a booster shot at least two months after their initial J&J/Janssen vaccine or six months after completing their primary COVID-19 vaccination series of Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna.

Masks offer protection against all variants. CDC continues to recommend wearing a mask in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high community transmission, regardless of vaccination status. CDC provides advice about masks for people who want to learn more about what type of mask is right for them depending on their circumstances.

Tests can tell you if you are currently infected with COVID-19. Two types of tests are used to test for current infection: nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) and antigen tests. NAAT and antigen tests can only tell you if you have a current infection. Individuals can use the COVID-19 Viral Testing Tool to help determine what kind of test to seek. Additional tests would be needed to determine if your infection was caused by Omicron. Visit your state, tribal, local, or territorial health department’s website to look for the latest local information on testing.

Self-tests can be used at home or anywhere, are easy to use, and produce rapid results. If your self-test has a positive result, stay home or isolate for 10 days, wear a mask if you have contact with others, and call your healthcare provider. If you have any questions about your self-test result, call your healthcare provider or public health department.

Until we know more about the risk of Omicron, it is important to use all tools available to protect yourself and others.

For more information: https://bit.ly/3sk19Hp