A little-known lakefront home, designed by modernist architect, Philip Johnson, is on the market for only the third time since it was completed in 1949.
The 3,812-square-foot house in Willsboro, NY, sits on 20 acres, with 850 feet of water frontage on Lake Champlain.
Glass walls frame the spectacular surroundings.
“The interesting part about this house—and the whole point of modernism—is really bringing the outside in,” explains listing agent Jo Anna Giltner, with Covered Bridge Realty. “When you’re in these rooms, you just feel the outside. It’s really a beautiful sensation of looking in every direction.”
The home was built the same year as Johnson’s iconic Glass House in New Canaan, CT, and is listed for $3.5 million.
Little-known home
Johnson is also known for other glass-centric homes, several commercial towers, and the sculpture garden at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
As for the lake house, the esteemed architected designed it with his partner, Landis Gores, for the Paine family. The couple divorced before the house was finished in 1949, so they sold it to a family who kept it until 2006, when the current owners bought it. The original sale was private, so there was not much publicity about the home at the time.
“So it’s been the two families, and neither of them have done anything to alter the structure,” Giltner says. “The house is in very good shape and has been well maintained. The thing that really matters is the structure—the actual way that the walls were designed; no one has changed them. No one has altered the windows.”
Modern marvel
Giltner explains that the home’s design was ahead of its time.
“The house has huge steel beams running through it to support these big open spaces, which was very novel back in the day,” she says.
A simple fireplace appears to be floating between two glass walls and near the updated kitchen.
There are two primary structures—a main house and a guest wing that the owners called the summer wing. A covered walkway connects the two.
“The family that commissioned this house was a young couple, and they expected to have family and friends visiting mostly during the summer months,” Giltner explains.
Two bedrooms and two bathrooms are in the main house, with six more bedrooms and four more bathrooms in the summer wing.
“They’re like little guest rooms, designed to give privacy and separation from the main house,” she says.
Both structures were built at the same time.
The next owner could take a gander at Johnson’s original plans for the property, available for viewing at the Avery Architectural Archives at Columbia University.
A third structure—a game and storage area—was added in 2006 and looks similar to the other parts of the house.
Both the setting and structure create a harmonious effect.
“The first thing when you walk in, you’re just blown away with the view,” Giltner says. “This view just stops you. It’s really stunning. Just the fact that [Johnson] actually designed this structure makes it very important, as well as [it] sitting on a very beautiful piece of waterfront.”
Illinois boasts some of the best colleges and universities in the country.
Illinois can proudly claim some truly fantastic college towns. From Champaign–Urbana’s vibrant nightlife to Evanston’s charming lakefront views, there’s a little something for everyone in these bustling hubs of academic excellence. Let’s explore the best college towns in Illinois and discover what makes them such appealing places to call home.
Home to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, this dynamic duo of cities offers the classic college town experience. Champaign–Urbana offers a lively atmosphere that is welcoming to all and chock-full of some of the most interesting people in the state.
The downtown area is filled with restaurants, bars and shops catering to the diverse student population. Green Street, in particular, is a hub for socializing and entertainment, while the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts hosts various performances and events throughout the year. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area also has numerous parks, like Busey Woods and Crystal Lake Park, where students and residents can relax and unwind under the shining Central Illinois sun.
In addition to its vibrant social scene, Champaign-Urbana boasts a strong economy, offering students plenty of job opportunities and internships during their studies and after graduation.
As one of the most iconic cities in the country, it’s no surprise that Chicago makes the list of best college towns in Illinois. With institutions like the University of Chicago, DePaul University, and Loyola University Chicago, the Windy City offers a diverse range of educational opportunities.
Chicago is also known for its robust arts scene, with world-class museums, theaters and galleries peppered throughout the city. Students can easily immerse themselves in the city’s rich history and enjoy iconic landmarks like Millennium Park and Navy Pier.
The city also has a vibrant culinary scene, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to hole-in-the-wall eateries serving up delicious fare from all corners of the globe. And let’s not forget about the city’s many professional and semi-professional sports teams offering plenty of opportunities for die-hard fans and casual observers alike to cheer the Windy City to a win.
Located just north of Chicago along Lake Michigan, Evanston is home to the renowned Northwestern University. With its picturesque lakefront, tree-lined streets and charming downtown area, Evanston combines the best of small-town living with the cultural amenities of a larger college town.
Evanston’s downtown area is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants and entertainment options, ensuring students have plenty to do when they’re not hitting the books. Popular attractions include the Evanston Art Center, the Block Museum of Art and the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the city’s many parks and beaches, which offer stunning views of the Chicago skyline. The Lakefront Trail, in particular, is a favorite among students for jogging, biking and leisurely strolls.
Home to Northern Illinois University, DeKalb is a charming college town that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for students and residents alike. With a strong sense of community, DeKalb provides an excellent environment for students to grow academically and personally.
The Egyptian Theatre, a beautifully restored 1920s movie palace, hosts concerts, movies, and other events throughout the year, adding a touch of historic charm to the town. For those who love the outdoors, DeKalb has several parks and nature preserves, including the picturesque Afton Forest Preserve.
Students can also enjoy the diverse dining options and local shops found in DeKalb’s downtown area. The annual Corn Fest, a beloved community event, celebrates the town’s agricultural roots and serves as a weekend of food, music and fun for all ages.
Home to Illinois State University, Normal is a quintessential college town that offers students a vibrant and friendly community. Uptown Normal has a variety of locally-owned shops, charming restaurants and unique entertainment venues that cater to the student population.
On the weekends, many students can be found soaking up the sun and sipping down some suds at DESTIHL Brewery and Beer Hall or absorbing the arts at the ever-popular University Galleries, which even displays works from the local student population.
With its strong sense of community and emerging economy, Normal is a great place for students to kick-start their careers after graduation.
Located just minutes from Normal, Bloomington is home to Illinois Wesleyan University. This picturesque college town offers a welcoming environment, along with a rich history and plenty of amenities for students to enjoy.
Downtown Bloomington features a diverse array of shops, restaurants and unique local attractions, including the historic Castle Theatre, which regularly hosts live performances. Students can also explore the city’s many parks and green spaces, like Miller Park Zoo and Constitution Trail.
Cultural attractions in Bloomington include the McLean County Museum of History and the Illinois Shakespeare Festival. With its strong sense of community and picturesque surroundings, Bloomington is an ideal college town for students seeking a well-rounded college experience that leaves them prepared for life in the real world.
Situated just west of Chicago, Elmhurst is home to Elmhurst University. This charming suburban town offers students a peaceful environment with easy access to the excitement and opportunities of Chicago.
The town’s thriving downtown area is home to the York Theatre and the Elmhurst Art Museum. Additionally, the Wilder Park Conservatory and the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art offer unique cultural experiences for students to enjoy.
With its strong emphasis on community and a highly-rated school system, Elmhurst is an excellent choice for students looking to put down their professional roots in the Midwest after receiving their degrees.
Fall in love with a college town in Illinois
From the lively atmosphere of Champaign–Urbana to the tranquil charm of Elmhurst, the best college towns in Illinois offer students a diverse array of experiences and opportunities. Whether you’re seeking the excitement of a big city or the close-knit community of a small town, you’re sure to find the perfect fit in one of these fantastic college towns.
Whether you like to pedal around on city bike paths or log several miles a week in training, there are cities where you can pursue the passion of cycling within easy reach of your rental.
Cycling for recreation and fitness has really taken off in the United States in the past ten years. American cities are not only reacting to but also planning for residents’ desire for safer and more plentiful bike paths, bike lanes and cycling opportunities.
Here are some cities to check out if you love cycling, and why you’ll love living there . . .
Austin
Texas’ own Music City has long attracted folks who love the outdoor lifestyle, its temperate winter climate and natural water features all part of the draw. Add to that a rolling terrain and multiple bike trails and you’ve got a recipe for happy cyclists. The Lance Armstrong Bikeway shares its moniker with the city’s most famous resident, while the Shoal Creek Bike Trail and Southern Walnut Creek Bike Trail offer additional pedaling opportunity. Austin’s south side is home to the 3-mile Veloway. Loop 360 is also easy and affords beautiful views, as does the Willow City Loop, which bursts with spring bluebonnets. Serious cyclists head for workouts on FM 2222, a 10-mile challenge that will have you bragging if you successfully make the climb. A host of cycling events keep calendars full, for riders of all skill levels.
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Boulder
With the Flatiron Mountains as a backdrop, scenic Boulder has a vibrant bike culture you simply can’t miss. Mountain biking, road cycling, infamous community events, bike share programs, gorgeous trails, and even 24-hour bicycle-related vending machines are all part of the package. If you live here, you can be part of the massive community which commutes by cycle, thanks to the city’s temperate climate. The leisurely Boulder Creek Path winds its way along the city’s namesake creek, toward Boulder Canyon, while mountain bike options are really exciting. Check out Marshall Mesa with its Flatirons views; the Canyon Loop Trail, with views of Boulder Canyon; and the steep challenges of Walker Ranch Loop, west of the city. Cyclists of all skills levels – even toddlers – can have fun on two wheels at Valmont Bike Park.
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Boston
Lovely Boston now brims with recently-created opportunity for cyclists. The Charles River Esplanade (aka the Dr. Paul Dudley White Bike Path) is a stunning urban greenway with views galore – of the Boston skyline, local boats, and the famous colleges of Cambridge. The city has its own bikeshare program if you can’t yet purchase your own bike. Boston’s enticing cycling destinations include the rolling 3.5 mile Franklin Park loop; the gorgeous Emerald Necklace and The Fens (designed by Fredrick Law Olmstead of Central Park fame); the 7-mile run from Audubon Circle to Chestnut Hill Reservoir; the 5-mile Southwest Corridor to Jamaica Plain; and the 7.7 mile stretch from the JFK Museum to scenic Castle Island.
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Chicago
Chicago’s 200 miles of bike lanes and its 18.5 mile Lakefront Trail help contribute to the city’s reputation as a great city for cycling. Chi-town has seriously invested in cycling as part of its infrastructure, offering residents a wildly popular bikeshare program, more than 13,000 bike racks and sheltered bike parking at its metro rail stations. Off-road dedicated routes include the North Shore Trail, the Dawes Park Trail, the Northerly Island Park Trail and the city’s signature Lakefront and Riverfront Trail, which stretches for scenic mile after mile.
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Denver
More than 85 miles of paved trails connect Denver cyclists with local attractions, beautiful parks and even hundreds of miles of dirt trails. Move here with your bike and The Greenway Trail will probably become a big part of your life: it runs for an astounding 30 miles, linking some outrageous riverside parks that line the South Platte River. Denver’s Cherry Creek Bike Trail is popular and pretty, its 40 miles containing the Front Range Trail, an off-road trail which will (sit down for this one) eventually stretch from Colorado’s northern border with Wyoming to the New Mexico state line.
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Greenville
The smallest metro on our list, beautiful Greenville, SC has been making all sorts of national lists. Cycling is huge here, thanks in part to renowned champion cyclist resident George Hincapie (former training partner of Lance Armstrong) whose own Gran Fondo event attracts thousands of cyclists each fall. Local terrain is rolling, due to being in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The countryside is hard to beat for pleasure rides, but the city’s paved Swamp Rabbit Trail stretches for 15 miles from Greenville Technical College through Cleveland Park and downtown, to Furman University, the quaint town of Travelers Rest and on toward the North Carolina state line. Cycling events happen throughout the year, and support for the sport is obvious by the number of relevant local shops (find Pedal Chic) and social clubs.
Tons of new apartments are opening downtown in 2017; check Greenville apartments.
Indianapolis
It might be more famous for its four-wheeled vehicles but Indianapolis is very popular with the cycling crowd. Indycog, the city’s bicycle advocacy, has created a cool map that not only shows the bike lanes and greenway trails, but also ranks each of the city streets in terms of accessibility, traffic and other factors affecting cyclists. A panoply of community and competitive bike events stud the summer calendar; the most memorable might be July’s 19-mile N.I.T.E. Ride, its after-party lasting until the wee hours. And if you like pedaling from brewery to brewery, you will love living in Indianapolis.
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Minneapolis
Prince’s hometown has actually been ranked as high as #2 for Bicycling Commuting Cities in the USA. Summers and fall are fantastic for cycling, and with the right clothes, you can enjoy your sport in spring, too. (Fatbike events even happen in January!) The Minneapolis Bike Map – available in bike shops and libraries across the city – is heavily laced with options for pedaling: off-street bicycle trails, on-street bike lanes, shared lanes. Bike shops are plentiful and cycling events from May through October are too numerous to count.
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Portland
The City of Portland has published a killer bicycle map, clearly showing dedicated and shared bike lanes, neighborhood greenways, no-car paths and even tricky intersections. The most popular bike path is undoubtedly the one lining both sides of downtown’s Willamette River, and traversing both the Hawthorne and Morrison Bridges. Several bike clubs organize rides and special social events, while bikeshare programs and bike shops are plentiful. Currently, 350 miles of bikeways exist and 50 more miles are planned. Over 7% of Portland commuters do so by pedaling: the highest rate of any U.S. city. Bicycling magazine and the League of American Biyclists have both ranked this city #1 for cycling.
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San Francisco
The hills of San Francisco are easier to navigate on bike with the handy-dandy map offered by the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition. Shared and protected bike lanes are clearly marked, thanks to a true dedication to the cycling community. “The city by the bay” has also installed bike corrals on several of its streets. Best of all, San Francisco has even timed its street lights to about 12 mph, slowing cars so cyclists can pedal the full length of busy routes without a hassle. What more could you want? Fast and friendly” cyclists will be welcomed to the San Francisco Cycle Club, which races other clubs when it’s not planning or hosting its own social events.
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Seattle
Seattle’s Cascade Bicycle Club has a whopping 14,000 members: the largest cycling club in the USA. While road and path cyclists cross all demographic lines, the mountain bike scene is also alive and well, thanks to a couple of killer urban parks. Seattle’s not flat, but dedicated two-wheel commuters comprise 4% of the population. Seattle is bursting with bike shops, bike rental companies and bikeshare programs. Summer brings a wealth of cycling events, and residents love the Burke-Gilman Trail, a 20-mile-long former rail bed along Lake Washington’s shoreline. Several gorgeous regional cycling routes are reachable via public transportation.
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Washington, D.C.
A champagne introduction might start with a DC Cycling Concierge tour. But you’ll also enjoy simply exploring Rock Creek Park Trail, the Anacostia River Trail, the Capital Crescent Trail, the Custis Trail and the W&OD Trail. The bike-friendliest neighborhoods, each winning a Washington Area Bicyclists Choice Award for 2017, are Capitol Riverfront / Yards Park; NoMa; and Golden Triangle (in D.C.); and Crystal City (in adjacent Virginia). Social and competitive rides happen throughout much of the year, and several local businesses – including District Taco, The Java Shack and Vigilante Coffee Company – cater to two-wheeling patrons.
Check out D.C. apartments.
SEE ALSO: Which Cities Give You the Most Bang for your Buck
There’s no shortage of great-looking apartments in the Tampa area, so make sure you find one that meets all your wishlist parameters and has a great view. Consider features like the pool and the clubhouse when making your must-have amenity list but also think about what you’ll see when you look out your window every day.
To find an amenity-loaded place, with the best views in Tampa, keep your eyes peeled and start with this excellent list of options.
Source: Rent. / Olympus Harbour Island
Come for the pool and stay for the sunset and the view at Olympus Harbour Island. This amazing space is luxury living at its finest with a decadent pool beside a curved seating area encircling a fire pit. Look beyond the amenities though, and you see soaring palm trees and the beautiful Tampa sky.
Living in Southeast Tampa puts you in a great part of the city. It’s a highly walkable and bikeable area that’s close to the water. You’re near fantastic boutique shops and restaurants, as well as within reach of the city’s historic district. This neighborhood also hosts plenty of fun events and provides an active nightlife year-round.
Source: Rent. / MAA BayView
Imagine being in the pool and looking out onto the water. You’re enjoying one water spot while another beckons right beside you. This duality is all yours at MAA BayView, a community that’s all about its lakefront location. Not only can you swim beside it in one of three pools, but you can access boat lifts, boat slips and a kayak launch to get up close and personal with the serene, watery views.
Although it’s close to the University of South Florida, when you live in Northwest Tampa, you won’t feel like you’re in a college town. The benefit of this location is it attracts plenty of entertainment, shops and restaurants. There are also a lot of great bars.
Source: Rent. / The Pointe on Westshore
A great view doesn’t always have to look out, although The Pointe on Westshore has that too. On the outside, you get a wide view of decade-old trees and can even see down to the water, but when your private lanai faces into the interior, there are some sweet things to see too, namely the large pool. Surrounded by lounge chairs and two-seater day beds, seeing this amenity from your screened-in balcony constantly reminds you that you live somewhere great.
Offering up a panoramic view of Tampa Bay, this Southwest Tampa community is close to everything, even the airport. Having the water nearby is nice, but when it’s time to hit the town, there’s no shortage of activities no matter what you’re looking to do. Enjoy some of the city’s best shopping and dining along with a very active nightlife scene.
Source: Rent. / Deerpath on the Lake
The best way to enjoy the scenery at Deerpath on the Lake? Go for a walk. Yes, you can see the sparkling water from the pool and even from the tennis court, but the winding nature trail that parallels the water is a special on-site treat. Set between nicely manicured grass and tall trees, it’s an ideal way to grab a few moments of peace on an otherwise busy day.
Sitting on the shores of Boot Lake, this park-like community oozes tranquility without taking you far from shops, restaurants, schools and more. When it comes to the 39-acre lake, you’ll have no shortage of waterfront to explore; however, if you’re jonesing for more, Lake Carroll isn’t too far either.
Source: Rent. / The Park at Lake Magdalene
Another sweet spot on the water in Tampa, The Park at Lake Magdalene provides residents with a well-preserved hardwood deck right beside the water. You can commune with nature and enjoy the soft sounds of the trees and lake from a comfortable wicker chair, all without leaving home. The community has a variety of spaces that look out onto the lake as well as a walking path right alongside it.
With no shortage of outdoor amenities, living here is the perfect match for anyone who wants to enjoy the fresh air of Tampa a little ways out from the bustle of the city. There’s an outdoor fitness center, two dog parks, a pool, tennis courts and basketball courts. You won’t have a problem keeping busy and being around nature when you call this community home.
Source: Rent. / Arbour Ponds
This isn’t a bad view from your private balcony, right? At Arbour Ponds, you don’t even have to leave your apartment to enjoy a scenic view since the pond. Adding to the loveliness of this area are the great big trees, bushes and close-cropped grass. It’s a little oasis that’s all yours to enjoy.
Another Northwest Tampa community in contention for having the best view, the lush landscape and serene waterscape truly make this a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. When you step away from this park-like setting though, you’re still close to great destinations for hanging out, shopping and eating.
Source: Rent. / Camden Bay
Being surrounded by a 1,000-acre nature pressure really puts the beauty of Tampa at your fingertips. That’s exactly what you get when you call Camden Bay home. You get views of the water, trees and the potential for some great bird watching. Living here is really like having an all-access pass to nature. Additionally, community docks make it easy to grab a canoe and go paddling or take out a bigger boat to explore as well. You may even encounter some friendly ducks while you’re on your way.
Getting direct channel access to Tampa Bay, from this Town N County Alliance community, you can easily get your fill of boating and fishing. Nearby, you’ve also got popular, white-sand beaches, which are perfect for hanging out when you’re not on the water.
Source: Rent. / The Oasis at Highwoods Preserve
The cabana beds may be facing the pool at The Oasis at Highwoods Preserve, but the real view is directly behind them. You can just make out the flowing water below the rows of skinny palm trees with lush vegetation directly behind. It’s like having a luxury pool in a Florida forest. Sounds pretty good, right?
Made up of 12 villages, there is so much to see when you call any community in West Meadows home. From shopping to dining, and everything in between, you’re set. This area gives off great suburban vibes for those who want to live a little outside the city without losing access to Tampa.
Source: Rent. / Mezzo of Tampa Palms
There’s plenty of natural beauty surrounding Mezzo of Tampa Palms. Walking around, you’ll see cypress trees in full bloom among other greenery and serene ponds. If you want to enjoy all that nature has to offer, head to the comfy chairs and couches in the common lanai. Here you’ll find a covered space to keep the Texas sun from scorching you and ceiling fans to ensure you stay cool while you take in the view.
For the outdoorsy type, New Tampa is a great place to call home. This area is known for its golf courses and the hiking trails along the Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve.
Source: Rent. / The Falls at New Tampa
There’s almost too much perfect landscaping at The Falls at New Tampa. The view around this lush community puts beautiful tropical trees and plants in your way wherever you look. From the dense spots of tree coverage to the beautiful bridges and mini-falls, this place is truly breathtaking.
Screened patios connected to individual units make it easy to access the natural beauty surrounding this Tampa community. You can also take in the sights from the resort-style pool and jacuzzi, sand volleyball court or tennis courts.
Take in the best views in Tampa
While there are plenty of positives to living just about anywhere in Tampa, you always want to try and find a place that meets all of your specific needs. As you check those amenities off of your list though, don’t forget to look at the view. Having a good view means getting a little piece of everything Tampa has to offer every time you look outside.
Featured Image Source: Rent. / Deerpath on the Lake
Get out your saddle shoes and your poodle skirt. A lake house with a 1950s-style diner is on the market for the first time in decades.
The home on Syracuse Lake in Syracuse, IN, is listed for $1,799,900.
And the retro-novelty space—complete with jukebox—is a real highlight.
“There’s a waterside, 1950s diner,” says listing agent Deb Paton Showley, with the Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group – Warsaw. The sellers “had some stuff recreated to look like it was authentic from that period, with materials and style of everything.”
The diner is part of the one-bedroom, one-bath guesthouse that sits on the property’s 83 feet of shoreline.
“It’s really just a guesthouse with a full kitchen that became an overflow place when they had lots of company,” Paton Showley explains. “Then they got the idea to finish it out in a diner style and make it for entertainment, so that’s what they did. … They even had their high school photos blown up of their classmates, as one of the wall decorations.”
And everything inside the diner conveys with the house.
“Everyone seems to feel like it belongs there and, so far, everyone who has considered the property has asked for it to remain,” Paton Showley says.
The home was built in 1962 and while some of its original elements have been maintained, it also went through a major overhaul during the almost-40 years the sellers have owned the place.
“They wanted to incorporate the original feel and essence of the house, so they kept the beams, and they kept a lot of things the same,” Paton Showley says.
One of the home’s original features is its round fireplace.
“I’ve seen a few of them in some of the lakefront properties but never one quite like this, with the copper,” she says, noting that the fireplace is still functional. The owners “felt like it was a centerpiece for the house and a piece of art. From the kitchen, dining room, living space, and the foyer, you can see that fireplace, and you can also see the lake views from all of those areas.”
The 4,476-square-foot main house has six bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. The sellers originally used the home as a vacation getaway but eventually moved into it full time.
Paton Showley says the home is in great condition but could use some cosmetic updates, if the buyer is inclined.
There is one amenity that needs no revising, though.
“The views just sink into your soul and you can’t forget them,” she says.
Conveniently, the house is within a few hours drive of Chicago, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Columbus, OH.
The great American road trip is a tried-and-true family tradition. Driving the countryâs scenic highways and stopping to explore anything that catches your eye â perhaps a stunning viewpoint, a side-of-the-road lobster shack or a historical marker â is a wonderful way to explore the U.S. with your family this summer. Itâs also a great â¦