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April 30, 2007 Cabot Nanogel(R) Aerogel and ACRALIGHT International Skylights(R) Introduce New High-Energy Performance Commercial and Residential Unit Skylights Nanogel(R) Aerogel Products on Display at AIA Convention, May 3-5, Cabot Booth #17048 and Acralight Booth #16275 BOSTON, April 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- To meet growing consumer demand for more energy-efficient, eco-friendly daylighting options, Cabot Aerogel, a product line of Cabot Corporation (NYSE:CBT) , announced a new product incorporating Nanogel(R) aerogel in skylights produced by ACRALIGHT(TM) International Skylights, a leading manufacturer of commercial, industrial, residential and custom structural skylights. Information on the new energy- efficient Acralight(TM) skylights with Nanogel(R) aerogel will be available at the AIA 2007 Conference in San Antonio, Texas May 3- 5, in Cabot Booth #17048 and in ACRALIGHT Booth #16275. Nanogel(R) aerogel is the world's lightest, light-transmitting, solid insulation material. This unique, silica-based product is produced by Cabot using a patented process to create an aerogel material that is only 5% solids and 95% air. The extreme small pore structure of aerogel (approximately 20 nano-meters) eliminates convection, while the light-weight content of the solid aerogel minimizes conduction. The combination of these two unique properties prevents heat loss and solar heat gain more effectively than any other insulation material on the market. Additionally, Nanogel aerogel eliminates glare to disperse an even, soft, diffuse light for better energy savings and other features that are proven beneficial to the overall health and well-being of occupants. Acralight skylights with Nanogel incorporate the feather-light aerogel material filled within the cells of polycarbonate panels that are securely positioned inside Acralight skylight acrylic domes. Curb mount and self- flashing models are available with Nanogel aerogel for use in residential and commercial projects for new construction and replacement applications. The U- value for the new Acralight skylights with Nanogel ranges from .22 to .17, depending on the model selected. Daylight light transmission ranges from 57% to 43% and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient ranges from .57 to .43 More
April 26, 2007 Green Projects Honored at 2nd Annual CEMEX U.S. Building Awards HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Green building and design was the highlight last night at the Second Annual CEMEX U.S. Building Awards where 20 finalists from across the country were recognized. From houses built to reduce energy costs to a California museum designed as a work of art and to withstand earthquakes, the projects used concrete and recycled products to design cutting edge and environmentally friendly structures. “While CEMEX manufactures cement and concrete products, it is you that molds and shapes those products into projects that inspire, amaze and delight. This year’s nominees represent visionary thinking, best practice performance and respect for the environment,” Gilberto Perez, President of CEMEX USA, told the finalists. “Thank you for working with us to build the future.” The ceremony recognized the best builders, designers and architects in the following categories: Sustainability, Housing, Institutional/Industrial, and Infrastructure. Award recipients were highlighted for their use of concrete, innovation, execution of the project, architectural design, and attention for the environment. The awardees in each category will later compete against winners from approximately 30 countries for the world title at the 16th CEMEX International Awards in Mexico in November. Because of its innovative design and benefits to the environment, the de Young Museum in San Francisco took top honors for the Sustainability and the Institutional/Industrial categories. Sustainability Award Recipient & Institutional/Industrial Award Recipient: de Young Museum, San Francisco, Calif. Built to replace the original museum damaged in a 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, the project is innovative in design elements, construction materials, and techniques. One of the first “Green Building” projects in San Francisco utilizing high fly ash mixes, the building used 15,000 cubic yards of concrete. It features a nine-story vertical post-tension tower and state-of-the-art custom under-floor system featuring a system of plates with rubber liners that allows the building to move during seismic shifts. The project reduced the original building’s footprint by 37 percent in order to return nearly two acres of open space to the surrounding park. Yet, designers of the 293,000 sq. ft. building still managed to double the amount of exhibition space. Skylights and floor-to-ceiling glass reduce power consumption and allow art to be viewed by natural light. Where needed, the museum uses energy-efficient fluorescent lighting. The building’s flooring is Australian Eucalyptus, known for fast-growth and sustainability. The de Young Museum, designed to last for 150 years, has a metal skin of 50 percent copper in 7,000 embossed panels that over time will begin to develop a green patina and will blend with the environment truly becoming a green building. The Corporation of Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco is the project developer. Architectural work was performed by Herzog & de Meuron of Basel, Switzerland, Fong & Chan. Swinerton Builders was the general contractor. Housing Award Recipient: The Bellamy, Tampa, Fla. The Bellamy, a state-of-the-art condominium, sits on fashionable Bayshore Boulevard in the heart of Tampa. It rises 21 stories, boasts a garden area and pool on the rear deck, and combines architecture, amenities and artistry to create a blend of space and intimacy for 61 homes. The oak trees were saved for an effective use of the existing environment. A two-story lobby greets residents from the parking area. The Bellamy theater, library and conference center offer space for special events. The structure includes 580,000 sq. ft. of suspended slabs of concrete. Column mixes ranged from 4,000 to 6,000 psi. Local ordinances placed tight weight restrictions on Bayshore Boulevard. So, all truck traffic entered through secondary road access, which required extra routing efforts for on time arrival of multiple loads of concrete. The project’s developer was JMC Design & Development. Architectural work was done by Sydness Architects, and the concrete work was by Hickman Structures. Infrastructure Award Recipient: Chaparral Water Treatment Plant, Scottsdale, Ariz. The Chaparral Water Treatment Plant pumps and treats 30 million gallons of water per day from the Salt River flowing through Scottsdale. The plant filters and treats the city’s water and uses granular activated carbon to remove taste and odor. The plant also disinfects the water using 0.8 percent sodium hypochlorite instead of gaseous chlorine, which eliminates the need to store the gas. The project used 25,000 cubic yards of specialized concrete mixes with low water-to-cement ratios, air entrainment, superplasticizer, and fly ash. More than 100,000 cubic yards of concrete was used. The plant’s architectural design creatively breaks up the scale of the big wall and features a contextual response to the Southwest desert region. The jury panel said it is not just a water treatment plant, but a work of art. The City of Scottsdale developed the project, Scot Thompson handled the architectural and engineering, and Archer Western was the concrete contractor. Sustainability Award Finalists: * El Monte Residence, Thousand Oaks, Calif.: The 7,000 sq. ft. El Monte residence evokes the timeless beauty of medieval homes found throughout Europe. Solid concrete walls stand up to fire, earthquakes and termites and provide superior insulation. This two-story home features a complex roof design, complete with a dragon wrapped chimney. The builder was Steve Armstrong. * Hubble Lighting, Greenville, S.C.: The International Center for Automotive Research development is dedicated to research and education. Its newest structure, the Hubble Lighting building, is expecting to earn a Silver level LEED designation for its architecture. The building required 5,300 cubic yards of concrete, 150 cubic yards of colored concrete and 4,000 pavers. Harper Corporation was the project developer. McMillan Smith & Partners did the architectural work. The concrete contractor was Advance Concrete. * San Mateo Public Library, San Mateo, Calif.: The 90,000 sq. ft. building used 12,900 cubic yards of concrete mixes including recycled materials, fly ash and slag, diverted from landfills. Daylight reduces electrical energy consumption 20 percent compared to similar sized buildings. The City of San Mateo developed the project, EDHH Architecture handled the design needs, and S.J. Amoroso Construction Co., Inc. was the concrete contractor. * Adamic Residence, Alamo, Calif.: Made of 100 percent Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) and concrete, the 22,000 sq. ft. Italian-style home used 2,300 cubic yards of concrete and is the largest ICF home in northern California. Each room is encased in concrete with arches, turrets, pillars, and sinks. The residence, heated by radiant heat in the concrete floors, maintains warmth in winter and cool temps in summer. ICF walls deliver fire resistance, termite resistance, strength and sound-proofing benefits. The owner and builder is Kelly Adamic. Residential Award Finalists: * El Monte Residence, Thousand Oaks, Calif.: please see description above. * Raisor Residence, Salem, S.C.: This 6,800 sq. ft. house overlooks the Jack Nicklaus Golf Course and its foundation used poured-in-place concrete and masonry block. An upper floor garage features a poured-in-place concrete slab. Structural insulated panels form the roof and wall base, and concrete pavers the driveway. The builder was Sexton, Griffith & Raisor, Lamar Construction did the concrete work. The design was by Mill Creek Post & Beam. * The Strand, Jacksonville, Fla.: The 28-story condominium showcases concrete benefits in aesthetics, durability, cost and scheduling flexibilities. It features foundation piles, columns, post-tension slabs, CMV walls, massive shear walls, pre-cast features and stairs, using 65,000 cubic yards of concrete and 100,000 masonry blocks. A two-story lobby offers river and city views, nearby shopping and entertainment. American Land Ventures was the developer, Dorsky, Hodgson & Partners did the architectural work, and the concrete work was by the Auchter Company. * Vivante, Punta Gorda, Fla.: The luxury condo development on a peninsula offers views of the water, beaches and nearby Ponce de Leon Park. The Mediterranean structures used in-fill block construction and poured-in-place floors and columns. The developer was Brooks & Freund, architectural work was done by Tseng Consulting Group, and Naples Concrete & Masonry did the concrete work. Infrastructure Award Finalists: * Atlanta Hartsfield Airport Runway Replacement, Atlanta, Ga.: Replacing a 10,000 ft. long by 150 ft. wide runway at one of the busiest airports in the world in only 59 days raised the bar for meeting a fast-paced schedule. CEMEX delivered 46,800 tons of cement, requiring about 70 trucks a day. No load of cement could exceed a 0.4 percent alkali content. The City of Atlanta was the project developer. Architectural and engineering work was done by Aviation Consulting Team. The general contractor was GSC Atlanta, a Kiewit company. * New Carquinez Bridge, Vallejo/Crockett, Calif.: It is the first major suspension bridge built in the U.S. in 35 years. At 3,464 feet long, the $247 million bridge uses orthotropic steel box girders and was designed for the maximum credible earthquake from three major faults. It used 84,000 cubic yards of concrete. The piles and 420-foot towers are cast-in-place concrete. The California Department of Transportation developed the project, Parsons Company handled the architectural and engineering work, and FCI Constructors, Inc.-Northern Division was the concrete contractor. * Katy Freeway Expansion, Houston, Texas: Each day, more than 215,000 vehicles travel the 23-mile IH-10 corridor, the Katy Freeway. The roadway expansion used 185,000 tons of cement, noise abatement barriers, and TxDOT and the Army Corps of Engineers redesigned bridges and culverts to minimize impact on local wetlands and wildlife. It was finished on time despite material shortages, weather delays and a fast-track schedule. The Texas Department of Transportation developed the project and provided engineering work. Williams Brothers was the general contractor. * Lee Roy Selmon Crosstown Expressway, Tampa, Fla.: The expansion is a reversible, three-lane bridge featuring a seven-mile flyover constructed over a road. It used 110,000 cubic yards of special mix concrete to achieve strength quickly. Temperature control often required 70 pounds of ice per cubic yard. The overpass used 3,100 segments and 197 cast-in-place columns rising 85 feet. The Tampa-Hillsborough County Expressway Authority developed the project, Figg Bridge completed engineering work, and PCL Civil Constructors, Inc. was the concrete contractor. Institutional/Industrial Award Finalists: * Anderson Recreation Center, Anderson, S.C.: The design used oversize shot blast units, concrete brick, split face architectural block, polished architectural block and more. Segmental retaining walls, standard grey blocks and concrete formed the foundation and the second floor where members enjoy a circular walking track. Neal-Prince & Partners performed the architectural work and Triangle Construction was the contractor. * Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, Orlando, Fla.: The 400,000 sq. ft., 12-story project faced challenges, including a hurricane season and a cement shortage delay. It used 45,000 cubic yards of concrete, 150,000 grey block units and many CEMEX products. Completed on time and on budget, it earned the 2006 Project of the Year award from the Associated Builders and Contractors Excellence in Construction awards. The Orlando Regional Healthcare System was the project developer, Jonathan Bailey Associates did the engineering and architectural work, and The Robins and Morton Group was the contractor. * Tampa International Airport Remote Long-Term Parking Garage, Tampa, Fla.: The $67.3 million garage offers parking for 5,600 vehicles and housing for airport police, landscape maintenance and operations staff. Made of post-tensioned concrete decks and cast-in-place columns on drilled concrete caissons, it used 80,000 cubic yards of concrete. The project used fiber reinforced concrete, corrugated pre-cast panels, and masonry units. The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority was the developer, The Walter P. Moore Company provided architectural design, and Clark Construction was the concrete contractor. * Stanford Cancer Center, Palo Alto, Calif.: The $84 million project added to an existing medical complex and required relocation of underground utilities. The 219,000 sq. ft. facility used 19,500 cubic yards of concrete for the thick, lead-lined walls needed for shielding cancer treatment equipment. Three stories above used colored concrete walls with a sand-blast finish and skylights. It won a design award from Modern Healthcare magazine. Bobrow Thomas & Associates performed the architectural and engineering work. Rudolph & Sletten was the general contractor. For complete details of the finalists’ projects, please contact the Communications Department at CEMEX USA. CEMEX received applications from more than 100 builders, architects and engineers across the U.S. The top recipients were selected by four U.S. architects, Kathleen Carrier, a LEED accredited professional and owner of Evergreen Design Studio in Bellaire, Texas; Marley Carroll, an AIA Fellow and Managing Partner with Odell Associates, Inc. in Charlotte, N.C.; David Hertz, an AIA Fellow and LEED accredited professional, founder and president of Syndesis Inc.; and Jerry Regenbogen, landscape and urban architect, and Principal-in-Charge of Regenbogen Associates in Charlotte, N.C. CEMEX is a growing global building solutions company that provides high quality products and reliable service to customers and communities in more than 50 countries throughout the world. For more than 100 years, CEMEX has a rich history of improving the well-being of those it serves through its efforts to pursue innovative industry solutions and efficiency advancements and to promote a sustainable future. More
April 25, 2007 An Energy Star is Born Seventeen Year Old Trophy Building Reduces Consumption by 34% WASHINGTON, April 24 /PRNewswire/ -- The prestigious Homer Building in downtown Washington, D.C., was designated an Energy Star building this week. After almost eighteen months of rigorous analyses and the implementation of numerous energy conservation methods, the 410,000 square foot trophy class office building is now consuming 34.2% less energy than at the start of the project. The approach of The Homer Building team: a thorough audit and virtual tour of the building to identify every possible place where energy consumption could be lessened while still maintaining top quality service to building Clients. Infrared testing of heat loss was a part of this analysis. Areas identified for adjustment include: the replacement of high wattage incandescent light bulbs with equally luminous fluorescent bulbs which use as little as 8 watts; installation of motion sensors, automatic faucets and auto- flush toilets; adjustments to the energy management system which reduces the use of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) according to the actual usage of office space; installation of photocell lights for exterior accent lights; and extensive Client communications program reminding building Clients to turn off lights at the end of the day or when their office is not in use. The Homer Building is the first office building in Washington, D.C. to be honored with the Energy Star label for 2007. Only six office buildings received the label in 2006 and only 26 Washington office buildings have received the Energy Star label in total. Throughout the Akridge portfolio, goals for energy conservation include the reduction of each building's consumption by at least 5% per year. Three Akridge-managed building have accomplished this goal with an average consumption reduction of 14.7%. "Our team has made tremendous progress toward the goal of reducing energy consumption across the portfolio," said Kathryn L. Barnes, Senior Vice President of Property Management at Akridge. "Through the use of new technologies and the dedication to finding every area for efficiency, we are proud to exercise our civic responsibilities while significantly improving the bottom line both for our investors and our building Clients." About the ENERGY STAR program ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy helping us all save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices. Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, saved enough energy in 2006 alone to avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 25 million cars -- all while saving $14 billion on their utility bills. Because a strategic approach to energy management can produce twice the savings -- for the bottom line and the environment -- as typical approaches, EPA's ENERGY STAR partnership offers a proven energy management strategy that helps in measuring current energy performance, setting goals, tracking savings, and rewarding improvements. The EPA provides an innovative energy performance rating system which businesses have already used for more than 30,000 buildings across the country. EPA also recognizes top performing buildings with the ENERGY STAR. About Akridge Akridge is a comprehensive real estate services company that provides acquisition, development, asset and property management, leasing and consulting services. For seven of the last eight years, Akridge has been ranked the number one real estate firm in the country, among firms of similar size, for Client satisfaction by CEL & Associates and BOMA. Since 1974, the company's projects have encompassed over 10 million square feet of space in the greater Washington region. For more information, please visit http://www.akridge.com/. About ING Clarion Founded in 1982, ING Clarion and its affiliates manage almost $32 billion in assets in the private equity, public equity, and public debt sectors of the real estate markets. Headquartered in New York, the ING Clarion organization has more than 750 employees located in major markets throughout the United States. The firm is the U.S. investment management arm of ING Real Estate an international real estate company, active in real estate investment management, development and finance. The company ranks among the world's strongest real estate players with offices in sixteen countries in Europe, the United States, Asia and Australia. ING Real Estate is part of ING Group, a global financial institution of Dutch origin offering banking, insurance and asset management to over 60 million private, corporate and institutional clients in more than 50 countries. With a diverse workforce of about 114,000 people, ING comprises a broad spectrum of prominent companies that increasingly serve their clients under the ING brand. More
April 25, 2007 'The Homeowner's Bible': New Book Guides Readers Through Building, Remodeling Homes GREATER DELAWARE VALLEY, Pa., April 24 /PRNewswire/ -- "It is a documented fact that home remodeling contractor rip-offs are ... the No. 1 complaint by the American public made to the National Consumer Complaint Bureau," says author D. Oliver. He draws from extensive experience in the building industry to provide an informative and useful guide for present or potential homeowners in his new book, "The Homeowner's Bible: Huge Money Saving Secrets for Building & Remodeling Projects" (now available through AuthorHouse). "Most people who want to remodel, repair or build a home have mainly two choices: they could hire a general contractor or firm the would hopefully do the work in a timely, efficient and professional manner, or they could attempt to get direction from a major chain store, buy lower quality material from often misinformed or uninformed sales people and attempt the hard labor themselves," Oliver states. "Neither of these options is optimal." Oliver solves these problems with an easy-to-understand, step-by-step system that gives readers better choices that will allow them to avoid most of the pitfalls of homebuilding and remodeling. He helps homeowners avoid getting ripped off by contractors and material suppliers and shows them how to find better quality materials at deep discounts, while saving sanity by choosing the right people to do the work. "This information has been compiled over the past 40-plus years through education, expertise, research and hands-on experience in the construction industry," he says. "Some of this information has been held in such extreme confidence that many of these facts being revealed should astonish even many contractors and builders who perform this kind of work on a daily basis." "The Homeowner's Bible" is written in a light, amusing style with humorous anecdotes sprinkled throughout that enlighten, educate and entertain readers as they create their dream homes. "If you want to save huge amounts of money, time and distress by avoiding crooked, unscrupulous contractors and material rip-off artists, then you need this book!" says Oliver. After high school, Oliver began working in the construction industry as a laborer. He attended night school, studied architectural and construction engineering and worked his way up to project manager. In the mid-'70s, he became a building contractor and built many new homes and additions. Most recently he has been working many years as a preferred high-end designer specializing in kitchens, baths and additions. One of his favorite tips to homeowners seeking help is "never, ever hire a friend or relative to do the work, unless you want to lose a good relationship." "The Homeowner's Bible" is his first published book. AuthorHouse is the premier publishing house for emerging authors and new voices in literature. More
April 25, 2007 Duke Energy Volunteers Celebrate Earth Day & Community With PWC Part of the Duke Energy Global Service Event; volunteers to help weatherize & repair home of elderly client April 28 CINCINNATI, April 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Volunteers from Duke Energy will celebrate Earth Day and community spirit by weatherizing and repairing the home of a disabled People Working Cooperatively client Saturday, April 28, as part of Duke's Global Service Event. Duke Energy employees -- including Ohio/Kentucky Duke Energy President Sandra Meyer, will work alongside PWC's repair professionals at Covington, KY home, helping to building a ramp and make the home more energy efficient. The 77-year-old client was disabled by construction accident, and needs major home modifications to make his home safe and livable. Duke Energy partners with PWC to provide energy conservation services and energy education to low-income clients in southwestern Ohio and northern Kentucky throughout the year. "Commitment to our communities is one of the business values that we share as Duke Energy employees," said Sandra Meyer. "We encourage our employees and retirees to seek out opportunities with local charitable organizations and to give back to the communities where we live and work." "We so appreciate Duke Energy's long-standing support of our mission, and are pleased that Sandra Meyer has chosen to volunteer to help one of our clients," said PWC President Jock Pitts. "Duke Energy is a great corporate citizen that works hard to make a difference in the community. This is a terrific example of how they contribute to our mission both financially though charitable donations and personally through volunteerism. Duke Energy is a valued PWC partner." WHO: People Working Cooperatively & Duke Energy employees WHAT: Duke Energy Global Service Event WHEN: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 28 WHERE: Covington, KY WHY: Helping low income homeowners with weatherization & home repairs About The Duke Energy Global Service Event: The Global Service Event complements Duke Energy's year-round commitment to volunteerism and to the communities it serves. Throughout the year, employees can request volunteer grant funding for non-profits through The Duke Energy Foundation for their sweat equity projects and leadership involvement with nonprofit organizations. About PWC: Incorporated in 1975, People Working Cooperatively serves low- income elderly and disabled homeowners with the critical home repairs they need to stay safely in their home. PWC also provides free professional home weatherization for homeowners and renters who are low-income, elderly, or disabled, in southwestern Ohio and northern Kentucky. More
April 24, 2007 Cockroaches Continue to Trigger Asthma Attacks in Children FAIRFAX, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In recent years, several large-scale studies funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) have reinforced the dangerous connection between cockroaches and asthma in children. NIEHS currently reports that one in five children in the United States have severe sensitivities to cockroach allergens, which can cause or increase the severity of asthma symptoms. These allergens are most commonly introduced into homes through cockroach saliva, droppings and the decomposing bodies of these pests. “The presence of cockroaches in the home poses a severe risk to health, especially as an asthma trigger in children,” said Cindy Mannes, vice president of public affairs for the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). “Homeowners should feel confident in contacting a licensed pest professional as their services have shown to be most effective in reducing cockroach populations. The professional treatment of cockroach infestations will ultimately reduce the number of allergens that can exacerbate a child’s asthma.” Homeowners must be vigilant in preventing such infestations, especially as the summer approaches. Cockroaches are most active when temperatures reach 70 degrees or above and these pests thrive in warm, dark and moist places. NPMA offers homeowners these tips to protect their families and properties from cockroach infestations: * Keep food sealed and stored properly, particularly in kitchens. * Clean kitchens daily, where crumbs and trash are more likely to build up. * Dispose of garbage regularly and store in sealed containers. * Seal cracks and holes in homes, including entry points for utilities and pipes. * Keep basements and crawl spaces well ventilated and dry. * Contact a qualified pest professional to treat any infestations. More
April 24, 2007 AIA Teams Up with Google to Launch New Architecture Layers in Google Earth AIA's 150th anniversary celebrated through 3-D images on Google Earth WASHINGTON, April 24 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Institute of Architects (AIA) (http://www.aia150.org/ ) launched two new AIA layers in Google Earth today: Blueprint for America (http://www.aia150.org/bl150_default.php ) and America's Favorite Architecture (http://www.favoritearchitecture.org/ ). Marking AIA's 150th anniversary, the AIA and Google Earth (http://earth.google.com/index.html ) partnership demonstrates architecture's impact on the world to more than 200 million Google Earth users. America's Favorite Architecture layer features the American public's favorite structures, as selected by a Harris Interactive poll announced earlier this year. Google Earth users can now see many newly-created 3-D models of the ballparks, bridges, buildings and memorials that characterize architecture for Americans and comment on the poll results. By clicking on the America's Favorite Architecture layer, users can view texturized 3-D images of the nation's most popular landmarks created with Google SketchUp, right down to the trees lining the sidewalks and flags flanking the entrances. The Blueprint for America layer documents community service efforts funded by the AIA, in which AIA members donated their time and expertise to collaborate with community leaders and local citizens to address issues such as homelessness, sustainable communities and downtown revitalization. Clicking on the Blueprint for America layer enables users to explore how AIA members and local citizens are working together to resolve real issues in their communities to create a vision for their future. The Blueprint projects are demonstrations of AIA civic engagement and foster an understanding of how citizens can find their voice to address specific issues related to the design and planning of their community. "Architecture defines the communities where we live, work and play, and thanks to the technology of Google Earth, we hope to connect communities to one another by opening the door to virtual exploration of design and the design process without the constraints of distance," said AIA CEO and Executive Vice President Christine McEntee. "The AIA partnership with Google Earth reinforces the message that architects and local citizens are part of a growing global effort to create a better quality of life in their community," said AIA President RK Stewart, FAIA. "By following the Blueprint for America projects as they are completed over the course of the next year, local citizens everywhere can find inspiration and insight into how they might become active or more effective in their community." The process of designing buildings and communities is changing due to new technology, such as Google Earth's SketchUp - a powerful yet easy-to-learn 3-D modeling software that combines a robust tool-set with an intelligent drawing system. Google SketchUp users can build and modify 3-D models quickly and easily, making architectural drawings more streamlined and efficient so that more alternative visions of the future can be explored. "We're delighted that the AIA community is sharing their important work with new audiences in Google Earth," said Michael Jones, chief technologist for Google Earth and Google Maps. "The AIA layers in Google Earth enable users to better visualize, understand and appreciate the world around them." For more information on AIA and Google Earth, visit www.AIA150.org, or watch the AIA/Google Earth YouTube video available at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpNaMbMr1CM . About AIA150 Celebrating 150 years, the AIA is the premier professional organization for America's architects. The AIA150 program, "Celebrating the Past. Designing the Future," honors architects for their dedication and commitment to excellence in design and livability in our nation's buildings and communities. The cornerstone of AIA150, Blueprint for America, serves as a nationwide platform to unite architects and citizens to collaborate on their communities' design priorities. The AIA also released America's Favorite Architecture, as voted by the public through a nationwide poll with Harris Interactive. The AIA acknowledges the important financial support of AIA150 Corporate Founders Circle contributor McGraw-Hill Construction (Official Media Sponsor). For more information on other AIA150 news and events, including Blueprint for America, visit www.aia150.org. About Blueprint for America Blueprint for America is the cornerstone of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 150th Anniversary Celebration. Comprised of 156 community service projects funded by the AIA, Blueprint for America brings architects and the public together to address community needs related to design and livability. From downtown revitalization projects to affordable housing modules, Blueprint for America inspires people to think about the way architecture impacts their daily lives. Once completed, case studies from individual Blueprint projects will be compiled and shared with local officials interested in implementing similar programs in their communities. The completed piece, titled "Blueprint for America Mosaic: A Gift to the Nation," will be presented in 2008. The AIA acknowledges the important financial support of AIA150 Corporate Founders Circle contributor McGraw-Hill Construction (Official Media Sponsor). For more information, visit www.aia150.org. About The American Institute of Architects For 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. AIA members have access to the right people, knowledge, and tools to create better design, and through such resources and access, they help clients and communities make their visions real. More
April 23, 2007 Earth Day Special - Top 10 Ways for Commercial Buildings to Save Energy BOMA International Releases Energy Efficiency Strategies for Building Owners and Managers WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--To commemorate Earth Day and bring awareness to the importance of energy conservation in commercial buildings, The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International today released its top 10 ways for building owners and managers to reduce energy consumption. The no or low-cost strategies that made the list are part of the nationally recognized BOMA Energy Efficiency Program (BEEP) that offers commercial real estate professionals strategies to reduce energy consumption by as much as 30 percent. “The built environment accounts for 48 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in this country,” said BOMA International Chairman and Chief Elected Officer Kurt R. Padavano, RPA, CPM, FMA, SMA, and Chief Operating Officer of Advance Realty Group of Bedminster, NJ. “The good news is that there are many low and even no-cost strategies that are proven to save energy, reduce emissions, and they are easy to implement and have the added benefit of often reducing building operation costs.” BOMA Top 10 Energy Efficient Strategies 1. Check that Equipment Is Functioning as Designed Regularly inspect all equipment and controls to ensure they are functioning as designed. Double-check Energy Management System (EMS) programming to make sure that operations are optimized. One firm corrected an EMS software programming error from “And” to “Or” and saved $3,700 annually. 2. Consider Your Cleaning Options Team Cleaning—Janitors go through the building as a team floor by floor, and the lighting is turned on/off as they progress through the building. Occupancy Sensors—Install motion sensors that will turn lights on when janitors are cleaning and automatically turn them off when the floor is vacant. Coordinate—Have janitors coordinate with the security crew to walk through the building and turn off equipment that was inadvertently left on by tenants. Day Cleaning—Why not have the janitors clean during the day while the lights are already on? 3. Encourage Tenants to Turn Off Equipment During off hours, make sure to power down everything – such as copiers, kitchen equipment and task lights. Use cleaning/security personnel to turn off miscellaneous items such as coffee pots, kitchen equipment and individual office lights. 4. Use High Efficiency LED Exit Signs Replace inefficient exits signs with high efficiency LED exit signs. LED exit signs operate 24/7 and have lower maintenance costs due to their extended life. 5. Institute an Energy Awareness Program Create promotional items, post posters, write news releases—tell everyone about your commitment to energy savings. Use your company newsletter and company/building announcements to keep tenants informed about your energy savings goals and how they can both help and benefit. 6. Install Monitor Power Management Software In U.S. companies alone, more than $1 billion a year is wasted on electricity for computer monitors that are left on when they shouldn’t be. Avoid those wastes by installing power management software for computer monitors and CPU/Hard Drives. 7. Change Incandescents to CFL and HID CFL lights use less energy, have a longer lamp life, and produce less heat, thereby reducing heat load. Also, check the lighting in restrooms, closets, server rooms and some common areas. Thanks to the 2005 Energy Bill, lighting retrofits and upgrades that meet energy efficiency requirements may be tax deductible, up to $.60 psf. 8. Harvest Daylight Locate workstations requiring high illumination adjacent to windows. 9. Evaluate After Hours Usage Talk to the tenants to learn if they are actually using their space during the lease-required operating hours. Adjust building operating hours to reflect actual tenant usage. 10. Adjust Ventilation Reduce exhaust and outdoor-air ventilation rates within codes. Take a look at the fans and adjust ventilation in unoccupied and low-density areas to reduce the ventilation to a practical, yet comfortable level. For additional resources on sustainable practices for commercial real estate professionals, visit The G.R.E.E.N. (The Green Resource Energy and Environment Network) at www.boma.org/AboutBOMA/TheGREEN. For information on the BOMA Energy Efficiency Program (BEEP), visit www.boma.org/TrainingAndEducation/BEEP. The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International is an international federation of more than 90 local associations and affiliated organizations. BOMA’s 16,500-plus members own or manage more than 9 billion square feet of commercial properties in North America and throughout the world. The mission of BOMA International is to enhance the human, intellectual and physical assets of the commercial real estate industry through advocacy, education, research, standards and information. Founded in 1907, BOMA International celebrates 100 years of commercial real estate in 2007. More
April 20, 2007 Green Builder® Media Announces Ron Jones Appointed Chairman of Consensus Committee For National Green Building Standard CINCINNATI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Green Builder® Media, the leading national purveyor of information and education about residential green building and sustainable development, today announced that Founding Partner and Editorial Director, Ron Jones, has been appointed Chairman of the Consensus Committee that is taking the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Model Green Home Building Guidelines through the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) process for national certification. The results of the committee’s efforts will have a significant affect on the direction of the entire home building industry in the future as it will create a new green building standard that will bring uniformity to residential construction practices. NAHB’s Model Green Home Building Guidelines are a set of voluntary guidelines that outline fundamental ways to build more environmentally appropriate and healthier homes. In an unprecedented move, NAHB announced at the International Builders Show in February 2007 not only that it was going to join forces with the International Codes Council (ICC) to take these Guidelines through the ANSI process, but also that the organization was going to promote a national green building standard to combat the effects of greenhouse gases. The members of the Consensus Committee, appointed by the NAHB Research Center Executive Standards Committee, include more than 40 representatives from a broad spectrum of the building industry, sustainability organizations and the public sector. The committee’s task is to transform the Model Green Home Building Guidelines into a national green building standard that will apply to all aspects of residential building, including single family new construction, remodeling and multi-family projects. “It’s not only a privilege to participate, it’s an obligation we cherish to fulfill,” said Omer “Butch” Gaudette – Director of Trade Relations for Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR). “There is no more important work for us than helping to create a green building standard that conserves energy, water, and protects our nation’s natural resources. I look forward to the day when “green” building is the standard for all homes built in America.” “The building industry is the most conspicuously consumptive sector in our economy.” says Ron Jones of Green Builder Media. “NAHB’s actions show both the drastic need for change in the way that we interact with the built environment and the opportunity for residential builders to have a positive impact on today’s most important global issue. I am honored to accept the position of Chairman of the Consensus Committee so that I can be part of this landmark initiative and make this process as authentic as possible, resulting in a meaningful standard while assuring the absolute integrity of the process.” NAHB and the ICC plan to introduce the new green building standard at the International Builders Show in February 2008. About Green Builder Media Green Builder Media is the only media company that focuses exclusively on disseminating information about green building and sustainable practices to a widespread national audience. With a circulation of over 100,000 of the most active and influential building professional firms in the country, Green Builder Magazine, the company’s flagship publication, is the third largest publication in the residential building space. Green Builder Media’s portfolio of sustainability-focused products and services directly respond to the dramatic growth in the green building market. In addition to its publications, Green Builder Magazine and soon-to-launch Green Remodeler, the company offers a series of demonstration projects across the country known as the VISION House Series; an online distance learning platform called Green Builder College; and in-person events for building professionals in select target markets called Green Builder Live. The company is privately held and funded by venture capital. More
April 19, 2007 Live Green, Live Smart Launches Interactive Website Promoting Sustainable Homes, Transportation, and Lifestyles WAYZATA, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Live Green, Live Smart, LLC, an educational organization focused on creating a global “green community” celebrates Earth Day Sunday, April 22nd with the launch of a website focusing on sustainable shelter, transportation, and lifestyle changes that allow us to live well while living eco-friendly. The site’s premier feature is an interactive Green Shelter resource focusing on The Sustainable House. Headquartered in Minnesota, Live Green, Live Smart was founded by business executive Peter Lytle to provide a “supportive environment for individuals willing to preserve the world from human-induced damage to the global commons.” Lytle, managing partner of the Business Development Group, says he saw “a lot of websites out there promoting environmental causes, but what people need is accessible information on practical ways they can live green daily.” The organization’s debut initiative is The Sustainable House, a sustainable residential rehab of a 1940s era home in a typical upscale teardown prone neighborhood. Reconstructed according to building guidelines developed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), the goal of The Sustainable House is “to demonstrate ways in which existing technology can be practically applied to make ordinary homes less polluting and less costly to operate,” according to Lytle. The house’s improved systems will include co-generation of energy provided by maximal use of wind and solar systems, state-of-the-technology insulation and indoor air quality, and environmentally friendly lawn and garden design. Progress on The Sustainable House is documented on the website being launched on Earth Day, April 22. Live Green, Live Smart invites 50,000 homeowners and builders to participate in its Green Shelter project by loading their own projects onto its website to interactively demonstrate “modest to comprehensive” remodeling and construction projects adhering to the USGBC guidelines for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). Participants will be able to share information and experience about greening their homes through discussion forums and building the online Live Green, Live Smart University section of the site at www.livegreenivesmart.org More
April 19, 2007 Argo Insurance Group Launches 'New Trends in Building Green' Seminar Series Experts From Building, Finance and Insurance to Present Integrated Approach to Planning, Building and Protecting Green Buildings PLEASANT HILL, Calif., April 18 /PRNewswire/ -- The Argo Insurance Group, a premier San Francisco Bay Area commercial insurance brokerage, today announced the first in a series of seminars that will present an integrated approach to planning, building and protecting "green" buildings. For the first seminar in this series, "New Trends in Building Green," Argo Insurance Group is teaming up with three co-sponsors -- the Northern California Chapter of the US Green Building Council (USGBC), Cohen Financial and Fireman's Fund Insurance. The seminar will take place on Thursday, May 10, 2007 at the City Club in San Francisco. Registration for the seminar opens at 8:30 AM. The keynote presentation will begin at 9:00 AM with the seminar concluding at 11:00 AM. Seminar keynote speaker, Andrea Traber, is president, Northern California Chapter USGBC and director, KEMA's Green Building Group. She will present Building Green and the USGBC Green Rating System. During her presentation, Traber will explain the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) levels and its requirements. LEED is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of green buildings. Traber said, "This event is extremely timely. As the green building boom erupts, this is critical information for setting LEED projects up for success, understanding important cost issues, and making key financial decisions that will support green building goals." Other topics covered during the seminar will include the financial advantages of building green, rates of return investors can expect from green buildings and the insurance industry's response to the green building trend. "The goal of this new seminar series is to present to our attendees an integrated approach to planning, building and protecting investments in sustainable or green buildings. Argo's role in the continuum of services that makes today's green buildings practical and financially viable is to provide industry-leading products and loss control services that meet the needs of green builders and their lenders," said Bill Ferree, vice president, Argo Insurance Group. About the Argo Insurance Group The Argo Insurance Group is a leading San Francisco Bay Area insurance broker that provides commercial and personal insurance, as well as employee benefits. With over 30 years in business, Argo provides clients in real estate and construction with innovative insurance and risk management solutions. About Argo's Green Initiative Argo is dedicated to providing industry-leading insurance solutions and services for green builders and lenders. From pre-construction consultation to building completion, Argo brings the expertise and experience required to structure a comprehensive insurance program that protects green certified commercial and residential buildings. As members of the US Green Building Council (USGBC), Argo understands the performance advantages that Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified construction provides to building owners and operators. More
April 19, 2007 Architectural Record Redesigns Website to Bring New Interactive Tools to the Design Community New ArchitecturalRecord.com Offers State-of-the-Art Tools for Users to Share Work and Commentary With Their Peers NEW YORK, April 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Architectural Record, part of McGraw- Hill Construction and the leading information source serving 1.8 million page views per month to the architectural community, today announced enhancements to its website, ArchitecturalRecord.com. The industry's leading website offers new, state-of-the-art technology to provide a greater interactive experience for both users and advertisers, combining the insight and power of the Architectural Record brand with unsurpassed Web functionality. ArchitecturalRecord.com now offers photo and drawing galleries in which architects can publish their best work and share their content with the design community. The site has also instituted a new simple-to-use rating system that encourages readers to participate in the editorial process by evaluating every significant project that appears online and in print. In addition, the site has inaugurated blogs to provide broader coverage and allow editors and readers to comment on their experiences and observations in the industry. Users can now create profiles to highlight their expertise and interests. "This bold new initiative affects the entire architecture community. Now readers can easily share their work, compare and interact with their peers," said Robert Ivy, vice president and editorial director for McGraw-Hill Construction and editor in chief of Architectural Record. "We have a rich, 116-year history of addressing the architecture community. Now, with these enhancements to our website, we make it easier for this community to talk among themselves -- and to respond to us as well," said Ivy. "McGraw-Hill Construction is dedicated to helping the design community work faster and smarter than ever before by offering the tools and resources that connect people, projects, and products. The redesigned ArchitecturalRecord.com site puts new tools in the hands of the design professionals, enabling them to interact with one another and share their knowledge about the people, projects and products that are at the center of their work." said Norbert Young, president, McGraw-Hill Construction. "Our objective in redesigning our website was twofold: We sought to improve navigation, making it easier for users to quickly access our content; and we wanted to integrate more user-generated content through new community features," said Dora Chomiak, Senior Director, McGraw-Hill Construction Digital Media. "These changes have not only improved the website for users, but they have also provided more valuable real estate for our advertisers." About McGraw-Hill Construction: McGraw-Hill Construction, part of The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE:MHP) , connects people, projects and products across the design and construction industry. Backed by the power of Dodge, Sweets (www.sweets.com), Engineering News-Record (ENR, www.ENR.com), Architectural Record (www.ArchitecturalRecord.com), GreenSource (www.greensourcemag.com), and Regional Publications, the company provides information, intelligence, tools, applications and resources to help customers grow their business. McGraw-Hill Construction serves more than one million customers within the $4.6 trillion global construction community. For more information, visit www.construction.com About The McGraw-Hill Companies: Founded in 1888, The McGraw-Hill Companies is a leading global information services provider meeting worldwide needs in the financial services, education and business information markets through leading brands such as Standard & Poor's, McGraw-Hill Education, BusinessWeek and J.D. Power and Associates. The Corporation has more than 240 offices in 36 countries. Sales in 2005 were $6.0 billion. More
April 18, 2007 Boise Building Materials Distribution Receives Golden Hammer Award for Third Time BOISE, Idaho, April 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Boise Building Materials Distribution (BBMD) has received a Golden Hammer Award for excellence in distributing lumber and building materials from Home Channel News, the home retailing industry's leading publication, for the second year in a row and the third time overall. "We're very proud to receive this award again, because it means that our customers are recognizing our commitment to support their sales and marketing efforts," said Stan Bell, BBMD senior vice president. "In the pursuit of excellence in hardware/home improvement retailing, the Golden Hammer Awards program recognizes the contribution of the very best vendors in this industry," said Jeff Arlen, publisher, Home Channel News. The Golden Hammer Award has provided a forum for retailers to give credit to vendors that are the best in their core product category for 23 years. The award winners were chosen from more than 700 companies. Over 3,000 ballots were e-mailed to buyers and merchandise managers of America's top 500 home center/building materials dealers/retailers. Dealers/retailers were asked to select one supplier from each of the 35 product categories that they felt excelled in strategic partnerships with them. BBMD's award will be presented by the Golden Hammer retail committee members at a special reception on May 8, 2007, at the convention center in Orlando, Florida, during the National Hardware Show. The Golden Hammer Award winners will also be featured in the June 11, 2007, issue of Home Channel News. About Boise Cascade Boise, headquartered in Boise, Idaho, manufactures engineered wood products, plywood, lumber, and particleboard and distributes a broad line of building materials, including wood products manufactured by the company. Boise also manufactures a wide range of specialty and premium products, including imaging papers for the office and home and papers for pressure- sensitive applications, as well as printing and converting papers, containerboard and corrugated boxes, newsprint, and market pulp. More
April 12, 2007 Kaplan Advises Buyers: Don’t Forget the Inspection to Avoid Housing Pitfalls CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Millions of people across the country are feeling the pain of neglecting to get a thorough home inspection before they purchase their home. Millions more regret not getting general maintenance home inspections every 3-8 years to address minor issues before they become major problems, according to Kaplan Professional Schools’ Inspection Training Associates, which educates new and current home inspectors. When the housing market was more robust, buyers were pressured to make “no contingency” offers to compete with other anxious bidders. Now, no longer the hostages of sellers, buyers are empowered and demanding home inspections before they invest in a home. “Getting a professional home inspection can save buyers, sellers and homeowners headaches and thousands of dollars,” said Michael Casey, Vice President & General Manager of Kaplan Professional Schools’ Inspection Training Associates. Counting on Uncle Harry, or one’s own experience is no substitute for a thorough home inspection. Roof problems, structural issues visible in attics, crawlspaces and basements, and complex electrical issues are just a few of the common conditions identified by well trained professional inspectors. Moisture intrusion and related problems if left undetected can lead to significant structural damage and mold. In addition, more and more sellers are realizing that getting a home inspection before putting their house on the market can help avoid many issues that may arise as the result of a buyer’s inspection - which always comes at an inopportune time in the transaction. “Listing inspections” help ensure a smoother sale of the home. Home inspectors will tell you that the bulk of the conditions they see that often lead to expensive repairs are due to deferred maintenance. By getting a home inspection every five years or after significant remodeling or landscaping projects, homeowners can identify potential problems before they turn into major disasters, leaving the homeowner and his or her family stressed out, concerned about their health – and faced with mounting bills for getting the problem fixed. About Kaplan Professional Schools Kaplan Professional Schools, a Kaplan Professional company, provides licensing and continuing education for the real estate (commercial and residential), appraisal, home inspection, mortgage, contractor, insurance and financial services industries. Kaplan Professional Schools is a division of Kaplan, Inc., a global education firm and a subsidiary of The Washington Post Company (NYSE: WPO). With more than 50 locations, Kaplan Professional Schools offers both classroom and distance education to help students earn their state certifications. Kaplan’s instructors are the leaders in their field, with many years of industry and teaching experience. Distance education courses include textbook correspondence and online learning. More
April 10, 2007 BuilderMT Helps Builders “Go Green” Through Reduced Cycle Times and Wireless Scheduling that Optimizes Trip Routing, BuilderMT Emerges as the Leading Green Building Construction Management Software LAKEWOOD, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BuilderMT, the nation’s leading provider of production management software for residential home builders, today announced that it has emerged as the construction management software of choice for green builders, because of its ability to reduce cycle times and optimize trip routing through wireless scheduling and wireless warranty procedures. These features, combined with the overall efficiency BuilderMT brings to every jobsite, dramatically lowers the environmental impact of day-to-day construction by shortening how many days it takes to build a home. Between 40% and 50% of new homes built in 2010 are expected to be green, according to a recent McGraw-Hill Construction survey. That number was 2% of the market (just $7.4 billion) in 2006, so the sector is clearly experiencing exponential growth. Builder are searching for ways to go green, and an obvious choice is to reduce their construction cycle times and lower warranty callbacks. After all, the impact of just one day of construction on a single home is dramatic: General contractors, supervisors, subcontractors, inspectors, and delivery trucks are all arriving onsite, generating exhaust and consuming energy and fuel. Reducing construction time by even one day can have a substantial environmental impact, yet the efficiencies BuilderMT brings to every jobsite can reduce cycle times by days, even weeks. For example, recent BuilderMT studies show that Infinity Home Collection (140 annuals starts) reduced its cycle times by as much as 15 days per home. New Urban Homes (70 annual starts) reduced cycle times by 95 days per home. For just those two home builders, BuilderMT was able to reduce construction days by 8,750 days. The aggregate savings that BuilderMT brings to its 700 corporate clients – many of whom build hundreds of homes a year – has a measurable national environmental impact. “If builders are ever asked what they are doing to go green, they can obviously point out the design and components of a home. But they shouldn’t discount cycle time reduction and overall building efficiency,” said Tom Gebes, BuilderMT’s president. “The financial benefits of lopping 10 or 20 days of the building process are clear, but think of the environmental benefit too, and don’t discount how these environmental benefits can help a builder market himself as green.” About BuilderMT By any measure, BuilderMT is the best-selling, most-widely-used, most-award-winning builder software available today. It outsells all of its competitor combined. Today, 4,000 users across 700 companies use BuilderMT to manage 300,000 annual starts and issue 53,000,000 purchase orders each year. Recent awards for BuilderMT include * BuilderMT president Tom Gebes named to Builder list of the Fifty Most Influential People in the Home Building Industry, 2006 * ConstrucTech Hottest Company of the Year 2006 * ConstrucTech Vision Awards for 2006—Graham Hart Home Builder * ConstrucTech Vision Awards for 2006 overall Team Award—Generation Homes * Home Builder Executive Magazine 2006 Award for Scheduling Software * Home Builder Executive Magazine 2006 Builder Technology Innovation Award * Tom Gebes, President of BuilderMT, Ernest and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalists for 2006 * ConstrucTech Vision Awards for 2005—Delcor Homes * ConstrucTech Hottest Technology of the Year 2005 * TecHomeBuilder High Impact Products of the Year 2004 For large and medium-size home builders in the $250 billion home building industry, BuilderMT provides highly customizable building process management software that works in tandem with Sage Timberline Office accounting and estimating software, systems used by one in four of the Builder 100. BuilderMT is widely recognized as a leader in process-driven, best building practices for builders, as well as customer service, warranty applications, online training, and innovative wireless applications. Since its inception in 1999, BuilderMT has maintained its status as a debt-free, highly profitable company that invests its profits back into infrastructure and software development. More
April 10, 2007 Advanced Roofing Hosts RoofConnect; Introduces Roof System Withstanding 185 MPH Winds FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Advanced Roofing recently hosted an opening reception for RoofConnect, the nation’s leading roofing services provider, and gave a demonstration of the Alternative Roof Blocking System, ARBS, to show structural strength for maximum winds of 185 mph. More than 65 executives from RoofConnect held their annual board meeting in Ft. Lauderdale with a three-day gathering to address how to better serve the country’s roofing needs. At the opening afternoon event, a demonstration was given by Concrecel USA, which showed lightweight concrete as a roof decking and insulation system. Concrecel USA has joined with the ARBS as manufacturers of a revolutionary new product that completely eliminates the use of all wood nailers within the roofing assembly. This product is fabricated out of 16 gauge galvanized steel and is designed to encapsulate the perimeter edge, most vulnerable to the effects of storm force winds. “As Florida’s elected leaders deal with an insurance crisis, the nation’s leading roofing companies have come together to review new products that will ensure better safeguards for Category 5 hurricanes,” said Rob Kornahrens of Advanced Roofing. “As an industry, we have a goal of making buildings virtually hurricane-proof.” Advanced Roofing recognizes the need to better inform residents and business owners of the new technologies for designs and products to better guard against potential hurricane damage. Advanced Roofing, along with the partnership of Concrecel and ARBS, recently donated a flat roof test table to the Hurricane Research Center at Florida International University and is involved with additional community outreach efforts. “If residents realize there is now technology and products for the retrofitting of older buildings, everyone will benefit and insurance companies will be in a better position to reduce their rates,” said Kornahrens. “We must be proactive as an industry to help make buildings stronger structures for the future.” About Advanced Roofing For over 24 years, Advanced Roofing has provided commercial re-roofing and a full range of roofing systems throughout the state of Florida and the Caribbean. Advanced Roofing takes pride with a “Commitment to Quality” which includes making the process from bidding to completion as simple as possible. The company has offices in Fort Lauderdale, Fort Meyers, Jacksonville and Orlando. More
April 10, 2007 Lennar Bay Area Announces Opening of 275 Solar-Powered Homes in San Ramon-Based Windemere Development SAN RAMON, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Lennar Bay Area Homebuilding is announcing three Bay Area solar-driven communities, located in the Windemere community of San Ramon. All 275 homes will come equipped with a roof integrated solar electric system from PowerLight, a subsidiary of SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq:SPWR) as a standard feature. The three Windemere communities, Paloma, Escalante and Stafford Place, are the latest addition to Lennar’s solar-electric program. The company introduced their solar home program in February, when it unveiled the 77-home Milano community in Danville, at the time, the largest solar-driven community in the Bay Area. The homes in the three communities range in square footage from 2,600 to 4,300. In recognition of the Earth Day celebration, Lennar will host grand opening events in all three communities on April 21, from 11am-4pm. Visit www.lennar.com for details. “Our commitment to energy conservation and enhanced value for our buyers has guided this decision to install solar systems in these homes,” said Les Lifter, Vice President of Marketing for Lennar. “Through our research, we listen to our customers and our Bay Area customers are telling us that solar power is a value-added element to their home buying decision.” In 2006, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 1, legislation which put the finishing touches on his Million Solar Roofs Plan, aimed at establishing California as the nation’s leader in solar energy. The plan provides incentives to builders and homeowners who install solar power in new homes and convert to solar energy in existing homes. The bill, which provides tremendous support to Lennar’s existing solar energy initiatives, is just part of a broader effort to push green energy alternatives throughout the state. Although the incentives from the program will not take effect until 2011, Lennar’s commitment to solar-power puts it in the forefront of forward-thinking builders who have their eye on the future and a concern for the environment. The Windemere homes equipped with a solar energy system can generate considerable savings on annual utility bills in addition to the current, one-time $2,000 federal tax credit. According to PG&E, homeowners will actually produce renewable power to help supply their own needs while protecting the environment. Any surplus power appears as a credit on the homeowner’s utility bill and reverts back to the PG&E power grid. PG&E then subtracts the energy supplied back to the utility from the consumer’s monthly bill. Unlike solar panels of the past, which were elevated above the roof, the SunPower SunTile® solar electric system integrates seamlessly into each home’s roofline. “The SunTile® systems we are providing to these communities feature the world’s most efficient solar cell, ensuring that homeowners achieve maximum savings on their utility bills each month, while contributing to clean air and a better environment,” said Howard Wenger, Vice President of Global Business Units for SunPower. The Lennar homes at Windemere are part of the Company’s “Everything You Want, Everything You Need, That’s the Logic of Lennar” program. Rather than offering upgrades that cost extra, Lennar researches what customers want and value in a new home and includes those items as standard features. Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation's leading builders of quality homes for all generations. The Company builds affordable, move-up and retirement homes in multiple states across the country. Additional information about the Company may be obtained at www.lennar.com. A tax professional should be consulted regarding any tax-related matters.
April 9, 2007 Angle Power Strip Wins Industry Awards KEARNEY, Neb., April 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Task Lighting Corporation's innovative Angle Power Strip was recently honored with top awards from three prestigious design organizations. President Kenneth Anderson developed the idea for the Angle Power Strip in 2005 after hearing about clients' frustrations with electrical outlets interrupting backsplash designs. "Our clients are oftentimes designers who work with homeowners to create highly functional and style conscious spaces," says Anderson. "No one likes cutting into beautiful tiles or a piece of granite. It's an added expense, and errors can be very costly. I knew we could create an alternative that was both attractive and practical." National design professionals certainly prize the Angle Power Strip's form and function. The awards started in 2005 when Kitchen and Bath Business magazine (K+BB) distinguished the Angle Power Strip with one of six Product Innovator awards. K+BB honors manufacturers who develop innovative new products and/or make innovations in kitchen and bath design possible. In April 2006 Task Lighting Corporation was named a Platinum Winner by the Awards for Design Excellence (ADEX). As the largest and most prestigious design awards program in the country, ADEX celebrates superior product design in the areas of fixtures, finishes and furniture. Each year over 500 companies submit at least 2,000 entries, but fewer than 225 products earn a platinum distinction. The brightest spot, however, came last September when Task Lighting Corporation was surprised with an Industry Innovation award from the SEN Design Group, a national organization of independent kitchen and bath designers dedicated to providing the best investment value to clients both in terms of products and services. Anderson reflects, "It's a great honor to be recognized by the best in the industry. And it grew out of a simple response to our clients' needs." Designed to fit just under overhead cabinetry, the Angle Power Strip is a low profile power strip with an angled face for easy access. Its discreet, sleek appearance offers a welcome alternative to bulky power strips and even standard plug molds. The Angle Power Strip also works well mounted under an island's raised counter top. By code, islands are required to have at least one outlet; the Angle Power Strip replaces the need to cut into the backsplash or cabinetry. The strip can also be vertically mounted along bathroom mirror edges. The Angle Power Strip is available in several finishes, including brushed nickel, brown, white and charcoal (bronze). It also comes in 10 standard lengths -- 9, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, 48, 60 and 72 inches. Custom receptacle placement and lengths by the 1/4 inch are also available. In addition to receiving three top awards, Task Lighting Corporation was recently issued a patent for the Angle Power Strip. Not content to sit on their laurels, the design team is developing an LED under-cabinet light. Anderson states, "The LED light really pulls together our interests as a company: maximizing efficiency with quality components and enhancing appeal with an attractive, smart look." Task Lighting Corporation will unveil the LED light this May at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Las Vegas. Anyone interested in learning more about the Angle Power Strip or the LED under-cabinet light can contact Task Lighting Corporation by calling 800.445.6404, emailing sales@tasklighting.com, or visiting www.tasklighting.com. Task Lighting Corporation: Task Lighting Corporation was founded in 1985 as a wholesale manufacturer of commercial and residential lighting. Over the last 20 years, Task Lighting Corporation has distinguished itself as a pioneer in the field of low voltage lighting. Products and services include task, accent, decorative and specialty lighting; free lighting design and consultation; and one-on-one technical support. More
April 9, 2007 Award-Winning Austin Architect Brings Innovative Design to Cinnamon Shore PORT ARANSAS, Texas, April 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Austin's own Jay Corder, AIA, founder and principal partner of the architectural firm Designhouse, serves as Village Architect of Cinnamon Shore, a new beachfront resort on Mustang Island and the first master-planned New Urbanism development on Texas's Coastal Bend. Corder will design Cinnamon Shore's key amenities, including a 16,000-square- foot retail plaza for shops and restaurants, a flagship restaurant in the community's Town Center, beach boardwalks, pool-area facilities and a central observation tower that will provide panoramic views, as well as be an icon for the community. According to Corder, the amenity structures will showcase the Gulf Coast architectural vernacular he created for all homes and buildings within the mixed-use property. "It's a distinctive yet timeless style that fits Cinnamon Shore's New Urbanism concept and seaside setting," he said. "Clean lines, simple massing, attention to architectural details and colors that complement the coastal landscape are its signature elements." He added, "Phase I of the community is well underway, with completion scheduled by 2008." "Jay and his staff bring over a decade of design, management and construction experience to our project," said Jeff Lamkin, CEO of Sea Oats Group, Cinnamon Shore's developer. "As a Port Aransas native, he has particular expertise in Gulf Coast architecture -- giving our community a look and personality all its own." Corder has designed a variety of residential and commercial buildings, including custom single-family homes, restaurants, concert venues, spas, golf course facilities, offices and swimming pools. Some of his residences received the cover story of Tribeza Magazine (2006) and Custom Home Magazine (2002), and were featured on Designing Texas, a syndicate television show. In 2002, his was also the AIA Tour of Home's Premier Home. Corder has won numerous awards, such as the AIA Honor Award in 2002, and five Design Awards at the 2004 Parade of Homes, including: Most Innovative Design, Best Floor Plan and Best Master Suite. For more information on Corder, visit http://www.designhouse-tx.net/. Cinnamon Shore comprises 64 acres, including 1,200 feet of beachfront, on Mustang Island, Texas, a Gulf Coast barrier island near Corpus Christi. When complete, the New Urbanism community will feature approximately 250 homes and condominiums; a town center with shops, restaurants, hotel and office space; numerous parks and recreational amenities; and a traditional grid of pedestrian-friendly streets that interconnect the entire community. More
April 9, 2007 UL Partners with EPA to certify plumbing products for NORTHBROOK, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Underwriters Laboratories (UL) announced today a partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide testing and certification services for the EPA’s WaterSense program. This new initiative safeguards the U.S. water supply by identifying and promoting more water-efficient products and services. As an EPA-approved certification organization, UL works with manufacturers to help them obtain the WaterSense label for plumbing products that demonstrate at least 20 percent greater efficiency in water utilization. The WaterSense label is currently available for high-efficiency toilets and irrigation control technologies, and the EPA plans to include other product categories in the near future. “In the growing market for environmentally responsible products, UL is positioned to help manufacturers compete more effectively,” said Ann Marie Gebhart, UL Water Program Director. “In addition to participating in the development of codes and standards, UL’s expertise in certifying products for the plumbing industry spans more than 75 years.” A recent government survey showed that 36 states anticipate local, regional or statewide water shortages by 2013. The EPA launched the WaterSense program in 2006 to address this issue by encouraging manufacturers to produce high-efficiency products and services that conserve water. WaterSense is a voluntary labeling program available to all companies that manufacture, sell or distribute household plumbing fixtures. Certified products will be included on an EPA product registry and will bear the WaterSense label. In addition, UL will list all products certified for WaterSense at: www.ul.com/water. Other facts about the WaterSense program: * The EPA is focusing on high-efficiency toilets during the initial phase of the WaterSense program. To qualify for the label, a toilet must consume no more than 1.28 gallons per flush while successfully meeting all required performance testing. The EPA plans to expand the WaterSense program to other product categories, such as high-efficiency bathroom sink faucets, showerheads, irrigation control equipment and other commercial equipment. * UL’s certification process will consist of product testing and annual field inspections to monitor continued compliance. Additional testing requirements can be found at www.epa.gov/watersense/docs/spec_het508.pdf. * WaterSense is similar to ENERGY STAR, a joint program between the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy that helps businesses save money and protect the environment by creating and using energy-efficient products and practices. In 2006, products bearing the ENERGY STAR label saved enough energy to avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to the output of 25 million cars. With WaterSense, manufacturers are required to work with an approved independent testing organization to use the program’s label. UL’s participation in WaterSense further expands its offerings to plumbing and water equipment manufacturers. UL recently launched a new Plumbing Mark for the benefit of manufacturers, users, installers, regulators and consumers. This Mark clearly identifies plumbing products that comply with U.S. health-effects requirements and performance standards. Products bearing the Mark are deemed suitable for use in accordance with both the International Plumbing Code (IPC) and the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). For more information on the Plumbing Mark or UL’s participation in WaterSense, contact Tom Bowman at 1-847-664-3796 or visit: www.ul.com/water. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is an independent, not-for-profit product safety certification organization that has been testing products and writing Standards for Safety for more than a century. UL evaluates more than 19,000 types of products, components, materials and systems annually, with 21 billion UL Marks appearing on 71,000 manufacturers’ products each year. UL’s worldwide family of companies and network of service providers includes 66 laboratory, testing and certification facilities serving customers in 104 countries. More
April 5, 2007 'It's Time!' International Distributor Offers Rubber Mulch Products for Playgrounds, Landscaping & Equestrian VANCOUVER, British Columbia, April 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Expanding on its theme of providing environmentally friendly products Target Technologies International Inc. (TTII), a leading-edge recycled rubber and global logistics outsourcer, announces the addition of specialty rubber mulch to its family of fine product lines. Currently a "must have" item nationwide, rubber mulch has proven highly adaptable to a number of different marketplaces -- most notably in playgrounds, landscaping, equestrian arenas and ballistics. Long-lasting & non-toxic, TTII's rubber mulch products are a timely alternative -- as consumers become more quality conscious in their choice of ground-cover materials. After debuting the "It's time!" rubber mulch marketing campaign on their corporate website TTII's Managing Director -- John B. Giraud, commented: "The addition of rubber mulch is an exciting complement to our long-term supply of granulated crumb rubber to the synthetic turf industry. We have known the potential of rubber mulch for some time, and have strategically aligned our marketing plans with selected well-known mulch manufacturers and distributors." TTII is offering its rubber mulch products in an assortment of product colors and packaging sizes -- specifically tailored to meet the particular needs for landscaping, playgrounds, equestrian and other specialty markets. Research has shown that when properly installed in accordance with local ordinances and guidelines, rubber mulch consistently out-performs its nearest rivals. Rubber mulch also exceeds consumer expectations, by providing a richly textured finished appearance that is pleasing to the eye. To meet the needs of its rubber mulch customers North America-wide and beyond, TTII utilizes its Globally Connected transportation network -- offering efficient, delivered to site customer services. While discussing the application of this system to their new rubber mulch line TTII's Manager -- Supply & Logistics, Lew Shrubsole, stated: "The markets for rubber mulch offer us the opportunity to implement a new and challenging dimension to our supply chain. Our customers involved in playgrounds, landscaping and equestrian especially will require some unique logistics solutions -- solutions we are totally enabled to provide." A member of the Target Group of Companies, Target Technologies International is a leading supplier of environmentally friendly products and logistics solutions to the rubber mulch & synthetic sports turf industries. More
April 4, 2007 Delta Air Lines Rocks with Jon Bon Jovi and The Philadelphia Soul to Build Homes in New York City with Habitat for Humanity Airline further demonstrates dedication to New York with commitment to two Brooklyn projects NEW YORK, April 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Delta Air Lines is joining rock icon and philanthropist Jon Bon Jovi, Habitat for Humanity and members of the Arena Football League (AFL) team, The Philadelphia Soul, to announce its commitment to two Habitat projects in Brooklyn, N.Y., further demonstrating the airline's dedication to New York. Working with Habitat for Humanity -- New York City, Delta volunteers are helping complete Habitat-NYC's Halsey Street project in Bedford-Stuyvesant, and the airline is pledging financial support to build at Habitat-NYC's Atlantic Avenue project in Ocean Hill-Brownsville. The two projects are part of Delta's Force for Global Good, a global initiative with a focus on uniting the airline's employees and customers in support of corporate philanthropic and social responsibility efforts. Today, Jon, Habitat for Humanity's Founding Ambassador, is partnering with Delta Chief Financial Officer Ed Bastian and 40 Delta employees from the New York area and around the country to kick off the two-day build that will help complete a nine-unit, three-story condominium complex on Halsey Street and Marcus Garvey Boulevard. Three members of the Philadelphia Soul, which is co- owned by Bon Jovi, also joined the Habitat build team, including Sean Scott, Duane Missouri and Mike Brown. At the build site, Bastian presented a check to Jon Bon Jovi's Philadelphia Soul Foundation, which will be used to fund multiple Habitat homes, including Habitat-NYC's Atlantic Avenue project. In December 2006, Jon joined Delta to announce the formation of Delta's Force for Global Good and its first official partner, Habitat for Humanity International. The two organizations convened in Johannesburg, South Africa to build four homes in the Katlehong township as part of the airline's first global build. Delta's Force for Global Good leverages the combined assets of Delta's vast global network of nearly 47,000 employees who volunteer their time and Delta's charitable foundation to support the global communities where Delta customers and employees live and work. "Delta is proud to join forces again with Jon and Habitat for Humanity International, our Delta's Force for Global Good founding partner, to pledge our physical and financial commitment to creating much-needed, affordable housing," said Ed Bastian, Delta's chief financial officer. "As New York City's largest airline, it is only fitting we are participating in these two very important Brooklyn builds." "In my role as a Habitat for Humanity Ambassador, I'm pleased to see that a global company like Delta Air Lines has committed both funding and the time of its employees to the work of Habitat," said Jon Bon Jovi. "I can speak from experience that Delta's employees who are committing their time to Habitat will feel proud and moved by their dedicated efforts. They will encourage others to become involved and share in the rebuilding of their own communities." "We are delighted that Delta Air Lines and its volunteers, side by side with Jon Bon Jovi and members of the Philadelphia Soul, are giving their support -- and their labor -- to build homes for New Yorkers in need," said Roland Lewis, executive director of Habitat for Humanity -- New York City. "Delta, with its strong base of employees in New York City, understands the depth our city's housing crisis and is committed to working, not just for these two days, but for the cause." The completion of the Halsey Street Project will bring the number of Habitat homes in Bedford-Stuyvesant to 41. Nicknamed "The Coffee Cup Building," this is one of the first structures in New York City to incorporate energy-efficient Insulated Concrete Forms, made of polystyrene similar to insulated coffee cups. The forthcoming Atlantic Avenue project is a 41-unit "green" complex, located at Atlantic Avenue and Eastern Parkway, will offer affordable one-, two- and three-bedroom condominiums to eligible New Yorkers. Scheduled to break ground shortly, the new condominiums will be part of a national model project in affordable green building and are being built to meet the highest healthy and energy-efficient "green" standards. Habitat-NYC homeowners will benefit from eco-friendly building materials and methods that protect their health, as well as lower energy bills to help keep their homes affordable. The development includes three buildings, each with its own entrance lobby with mailboxes, a community room, laundry room and access to the shared, landscaped yard. The yard will be designed for passive recreation, with seating areas, landscaped areas and garden areas. Jon Bon Jovi is the first Founding Ambassador of the Habitat for Humanity Ambassador program. His support for Habitat for Humanity began in 2005 when he provided the funds to build six homes in Philadelphia and worked to build the homes with the homeowner families and members of his Philadelphia Soul Arena Football Team. Later, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Jon Bon Jovi surprised Oprah Winfrey with a check from his band for $1 million. Bon Jovi, Habitat, and Oprah's Angel Network built 29 homes in Houma, La. with low- income families previously displaced by the natural disaster. Then, in October 2006, Jon announced a unique partnership he brokered between Project H.O.M.E., Habitat for Humanity, the Philadelphia Soul Charitable Foundation and Saturn to renovate 15 row houses in one of Philadelphia's most poverty-ridden neighborhoods. Including those 15 homes, Jon is currently a motivating force behind a total of 49 homes being built in partnership with low-income families. Delta and its partners offer customers more flights to more destinations from New York City's two preferred airports combined -- John F. Kennedy International and New York-LaGuardia -- than any other airline. Delta Air Lines offers customers service to more destinations than any global airline with Delta and Delta Connection carrier service to 307 destinations in 52 countries. With more than 60 new international routes added in the last year, Delta is America's fastest growing international airline and is a leader across the Atlantic with flights to 31 trans-Atlantic destinations. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers more than 600 weekly flights to 58 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on nearly 15,000 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 456 worldwide destinations in 100 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes and check flight status at delta.com. Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in Americus, Ga., in 1976, Habitat has built more than 200,000 houses in nearly 100 countries, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than one million people. For more information, visit www.habitat.org. Travel for some itineraries may be provided by Delta Connection carriers Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Comair, Chautauqua, Freedom Airlines and Shuttle America. More
April 3, 2007 America Celebrates the First National Architecture Week Opening of America's Favorite Architecture Exhibit to Lead List of Activities WASHINGTON, April 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In honor of its 150th anniversary, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) will lead the celebration surrounding America's first National Architecture Week, April 9- 14, 2007. In conjunction with the week's events, the America's Favorite Architecture exhibit will open to reveal a visual showcase of the results of a poll in which the public chose 150 of their favorite structures, which will travel around the country later in the year. "National Architecture Week is the ideal platform to highlight the achievements of architects as well as the impact of architecture in our daily lives, as evidenced by American voters in the favorite architecture poll," said R.K. Stewart, FAIA, AIA 2007 president. "As the professional organization for architects, the AIA looks forward to leading the efforts surrounding this week of national focus on architecture and its professionals." On April 11, the grand opening of America's Favorite Architecture exhibit will reveal images of the most iconic buildings, bridges and memorials in America. The debate about the poll results will continue via an interactive web site, accessible at kiosks within the exhibit, which will allow visitors to vote for their own favorite architecture at http://www.favoritearchitecture.org/. "The 'green' exhibit system is a testament to the AIA's commitment to sustainability and innovation -- a lightweight, compact system, which incorporates sustainable materials and recyclable components," said Jonathan Alger, exhibit designer for C&G Partners, creators of America's Favorite Architecture exhibit. Additional National Architecture Week events include a plaque rededication and proclamation ceremony on April 13 at 111 Broadway, New York, NY to mark the site of the first official meeting of the AIA, followed by an invitation- only dinner at historic Delmonico's to commemorate the official chartering of the AIA in 1857. First Deputy Mayor, Patricia Harris, FAIA, will deliver the Mayoral Proclamation of National Architecture Week, followed by AIA president, RK Stewart, FAIA, Christine McEntee, CEO of the AIA, and AIA150 Committee Chair, George Miller, FAIA. The first ever AIA Family Day will be held at AIA national headquarters in Washington, DC on April 14 from 9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. and will include architecture walking tours and design competitions for kids. In addition to these national events, AIA components (chapters) will be conducting celebrations and campaigns across the nation in their local markets. For a complete listing and more information on AIA national and local National Architecture Week events, visit http://www.aia150.org/. About AIA150 Celebrating 150 years, the AIA is the premier professional organization for America's architects. The AIA150 program, "Celebrating the Past. Designing the Future," honors architects for their dedication and commitment to excellence in design and livability in our nation's buildings and communities. The cornerstone of AIA150, Blueprint for America, serves as a nationwide platform to unite architects and citizens to collaborate on their communities' design priorities. The AIA will also release its list of America's Favorite Architecture, according to a professional survey. The AIA acknowledges the important financial support of AIA150 Corporate Founders Circle contributor McGraw-Hill Construction (Official Media Sponsor). For more information on other AIA150 news and events, including Blueprint for America, visit http://www.aia150.org/. About The American Institute of Architects For 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. AIA members have access to the right people, knowledge, and tools to create better design, and through such resources and access, they help clients and communities make their visions real. More
April 2, 2007 ADAO Applauds Senate for Passage of “National Asbestos Awareness Week” WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO), an organization dedicated to serving as the voice of asbestos victims, today applauds the United States Senate for designating the first week of April as “National Asbestos Awareness Week.” In particular, ADAO praises Senator Max Baucus (D-MT) and additional cosponsors and key supporters of S.RES.108 including: Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL), Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA), Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) for their leadership in this important legislative victory. “This designation continues to recognize the national tragedy created by the continued uncontrolled dissemination and use of products containing asbestos in the United States,” said Dr. Richard Lemen, former Assistant Surgeon General and Co-chairman of the ADAO Science Advisory Board. “While the most devastating asbestos related disease may be mesothelioma, we should not forget the much larger number of lung cancers that arise from asbestos exposure, the interactions with smoking, and the many other cancers such as GI, larynx, and kidney that can also arise. Also, asbestosis continues to affect many who have been exposed to asbestos over the years,” stated Dr. Arthur L. Frank, Chairman of the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health at Drexel University and Co-chairman of the ADAO Science Advisory Board. “The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization commends the U.S. Senate and the bi-partisan cosponsors of this important resolution for their continued leadership in addressing this preventable public health crisis,” said Linda Reinstein, Executive Director of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization. “In particular, ADAO commends the Senate for including an amendment that urges the U.S. Surgeon General to warn and educate people that asbestos exposure may be hazardous to their health.” To recognize National Asbestos Awareness Week, ADAO will hold its third annual conference and Remembrance Service at Drexel University School of Public Heath on March 31st and April 1st respectively in Philadelphia. About Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) was founded by asbestos victims and their families in 2004. ADAO seeks to give asbestos victims a united voice to help ensure that their rights are fairly represented and protected, and raise public awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure and the incurable and often deadly asbestos related diseases. ADAO is funded through voluntary contributions and staffed by volunteers. More
April 2, 2007 Brick Industry Honors Excellence in Environmental Stewardship & Employee Health and Safety Programs Winners Include: Acme, Alley-Cassetty, Boral, Glen-Gery, Summit*Lakewood, Lawrenceville & Nash Brick Companies, as Well as Belden Brick Sales & Service RESTON, Va., April 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Outstanding programs in environmental stewardship, and employee health and safety were honored Saturday night by the Brick Industry Association (BIA) at its annual Banquet in Orlando, Florida. BIA President and CEO, Richard Jennison said: "Brick manufacturers and distributors are demonstrating that -- just as all-natural brick, itself -- they're operating in a sustainable manner: safeguarding the health and well- being of the environment, their employees, and society, at large." Environmental Stewardship Ft. Worth, TX-based Acme Brick won for its "Perla Plant Recycling Initiative," in which un-fired brick waste is re-cycled, and forms a new product. This translated into a 93 percent waste reduction, as well as a cut in mining and landfill costs. Also, the new product now accounts for 10% of total sales for its plant. Nashville, TN-based Alley-Cassetty won for the "Reduced Truck Emissions" program that significantly cut vehicular emissions. This was done through regulating truck speeds; monitoring exhaust emissions; and recycling waste oil, anti-freeze, and hydraulic oil, leading to a 6% increase in fuel efficiency. Roswell, GA-based Boral Bricks won for its "Journey Toward Sustainability" program that implemented a new diagnostic tool to assess resource conservation successes. Conservation goals were set, the attainment of which impacts employees' performance bonus plans. Boral believes it has developed a transparent system for measuring greenhouse gas emissions, enabling Boral to participate in a future emissions trading system. Wyomissing, PA-based Glen-Gery Corporation won for its "Energy Reduction Program," in which heat from the mass of bricks exiting the kiln was re- circulated back to the Proctor driers. To achieve this, Glen-Gery re-designed the kiln's exit, in order to supply all of the drier's energy needs, thus eliminating the need for supplemental burners. The result was annual cuts in both natural gas consumption by more than 7,780 million cubic feet, and CO2 emissions by more than 938,000 pounds. Lawrenceville, VA-based Lawrenceville Brick used its "Scrubber Waste Recycling Program" to identify beneficial uses for the waste that accumulates in dry limestone absorbers (or 'scrubbers'). Rather than send the waste to a landfill, the company provides the waste free of charge to local farmers' peanut, soybean and pasture lands, in which the lime waste reacts favorably with the soil. Rocky Mount, NC-based Nash Brick won for its "Secondary Containment" program protecting the environment by reducing the likelihood that suspended solids (or sediment) would leave the sediment basin. This innovation resulted in more environmentally-friendly mine reclamation, cleaner water for streams, and a highly favorable Inspection Report from the NC Division of Land Quality stating that the "Site looks good. Owner shows interest in, and dedication to, exceeding expectations." Employee Health and Safety Acme Brick won for its "Be Alert-Safety First Day," which consisted of an annual event, held at all Acme Brick locations, affording intensive safety training and leisurely games to re-inforce the practical importance of safety programs. Acme reported that this program led to a significant reduction in injury rates. New York, NY-based Belden Brick Sales & Service won for its "Do the Right Thing For Our Friends" program delivering to all employees wellness, medical and pharmaceutical insurance free of charge. In addition to the coverage, any staff member wishing to quit smoking is given up to $500 for treatment. Pueblo, CO-based Summit*Lakewood Brick won for its safety program, steered by a plant safety committee that meets monthly to proactively address employee safety issues. This effort is supported by such other safety teams as those addressing lockout/tagout, forklifts, fleet safety, and respiratory protection. Monetary awards are given to each department that meets its goals. More than two dozen entries were submitted to the BIA contests, held entirely on-line at http://www.gobrick.com/. Entries were assessed by magazine editors, Roy Bigham of Pollution Engineering; Dave Johnson of Industrial Safety and Hygiene News; and Sandy Smith of Occupational Hazards. Judging criteria included: the degree to which the entrant provided both quantitative and qualitative information on the company's effective management of EH&S issues, and examples of expanding employee knowledge of these issues. About the Brick Industry Association: The Brick Industry Association (BIA) is the national trade association representing distributors and manufacturers of clay brick and suppliers of related products and services. The Association is involved in a broad range of technical, research, marketing, government relations, and communications activities. It is the recognized national authority on residential and commercial uses of brick. More
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