News

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Dietrich Metal Framing Announces Sublicensing of UltraSTEEL(TM); Clark Western Converting Operations to Hadley Technology

February 28, 2006

COLUMBUS, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 27, 2006--Dietrich Metal Framing, a Worthington Industries company (NYSE:WOR), today announced that it has signed an exclusive sublicensing agreement with Clark Western for UltraSTEEL(TM) metal framing products using patented technology of Hadley Industries PLC. Dietrich has a licensing agreement with Hadley for exclusive rights to manufacture and sell metal framing using the UltraSTEEL(TM) technology in North America. "This new metal framing technology will be a breakthrough product for the industry and we believe the Clark sublicensing will greatly accelerate market acceptance and availability," said Ed Ponko, President of Dietrich Metal Framing. "We explored many alternatives and quickly came to the conclusion that this was clearly an innovative product and process for metal framing," added Bill Courtney, President of Clark Western. "This unique arrangement is a testament to both of our companies' belief in the merits of UltraSTEEL(TM)."
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Harris County, Texas, Awards Contract to Landata Technologies Inc. for Landata e-STAR Plus(TM) Integrated Cashiering and Electronic Recording System

February 28, 2006

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 27, 2006--Harris County, the third largest county in the nation by population and the most populous county in Texas, has awarded a contract to Landata Technologies Inc. for the integrated cashiering and electronic recording (e-recording) portions of Landata e-STAR Plus, a comprehensive Solution for Total Automation of Records for county clerks and recorders. "The Harris County Clerk's office is pleased with this step toward greater efficiency and convenience in the recording process. We are looking forward to the benefits it will provide our customers while streamlining our work flow," said the Honorable Beverly Kaufman, Harris County Clerk.
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Grace to Open Manufacturing Facility in Tennessee to Produce Products for Residential and Commercial Construction

February 24, 2006

COLUMBIA, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 23, 2006--W. R. Grace & Co. (NYSE:GRA) announced today that it will open a manufacturing facility in Mt. Pleasant, TN that significantly increases the company's capacity to produce roofing, flashing and structural waterproofing products, including Grace Ice & Water Shield(R) for residential roofing. The facility is expected to cost approximately $20 million and be operational in the third quarter.
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Driving Design: From the Front Seat to the Front Porch

February 23, 2006

Nearly 70 Percent of Homeowners Tour Neighborhoods Looking for Inspiration in Their Drive for Great Home Design MAUMEE, Ohio, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- When it comes to their homes' exterior, where do most Americans get their design inspiration? And, what are they inspired to do? A new study, "Driving Design: From the Front Seat to the Front Porch", fielded by Harris Interactive and Therma-Tru Doors, looks at how American homeowners find inspiration for the exteriors of their current homes or the new homes they are building. The study also evaluates the key elements of exterior styling that most influence them, what exterior improvement projects they would like to undertake, and what celebrity homes they would like to emulate.
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HouseRaising Launches Preview of Custom Homebuilder Membership Program Website and Operating System

February 23, 2006

Freewood Contracting, Greenville, SC, Becomes an Affiliated Builder in the Greenville Area CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- After six years in development and an investment of $10 million, HouseRaising, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: HRAI), a provider of patent-pending software that is utilized in managing the homebuilding process for affiliated custom homebuilders, today launched the preview edition of its Custom Homebuilder Membership Program Website and its operating system.
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Novamedia Expands Capacity with New 6-Color Screenprinting System; Acquisition Driven by Growing Demand for Company's Artlite(R) Illuminated Displays and Screen Printed Products

February 22, 2006

FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 21, 2006--The Novamedia Group today announced the acquisition and installation of a new M&R Conquest 6-color carousel screen printing system. The press, which was put in operation in January, is providing Novamedia with increased production capacity to meet the growing demand for both its Artlite(R) illuminated displays and its other screen printed products. Artlite(R) is a unique multi-layer printing process that creates highly impactful illuminated displays. The increased demand for Artlite(R) products is being driven by major companies in the electronics, clothing, tobacco, beverage, food service, and other industries that are looking to differentiate their brands from their competition. Applications for Artlite(R) include Point-of-Purchase (POP) displays and signage, visual merchandising, illuminated vending equipment, and other types of illuminated signage.
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Window Profiles Get a Colorful Outlook with Co-extruded Geloy(1)/PVC Resin from GE - Plastics

February 21, 2006

PITTSFIELD, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 20, 2006--Chinese architects and designers, who until now have generally been limited to plain white PVC or aluminum window profiles for their buildings, can expand their creative options thanks to the broad color palette provided by GE - Plastics' Geloy(1) acrylic-styrene-acrylonitrile (ASA) resin co-extruded with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin. The new Geloy resin product gives white PVC window profiles a colorful coat without the time and expense of painting, and helps deliver excellent thermo-insulation comparable to aluminum window profiles.
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Onset Computer Corporation Introduces Real-Time Alarm Software for HOBO(R) Data Loggers

February 20, 2006

BOURNE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 17, 2006--Onset Computer Corporation, a leading supplier of battery-powered data loggers, today introduced new Real-Time Alarm Software for use with HOBO data loggers. The new alarm software automatically notifies users via cell phone text messages or email when temperature, humidity and other conditions exceed user-defined limits. The software is able to provide alarm notification for multiple HOBO data loggers, and can be used with inexpensive Ethernet servers. This makes it particularly useful in applications where numerous locations need to be monitored throughout a facility. Example applications include tracking environmental conditions in computer server rooms, food storage warehouses, and museums.
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Williams Scotsman and DEWALT Join Forces To Address Construction Jobsite Theft Through Strategic Alliance; SITELOCK(TM) Portable Wireless Alarm System Protects Jobsite Mobile Offices and Storage Units

February 20, 2006

BALTIMORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 17, 2006--Williams Scotsman International, Inc. (NASDAQ:WLSC), a leading provider of modular space solutions, announces a strategic relationship with DEWALT Industrial Tool Company to integrate the SITELOCK(TM) portable wireless alarm system into its mobile office fleet for use on construction jobsites. With theft being the number one concern for contractors, Williams Scotsman's mobile offices for construction sites will come equipped with the SITELOCK(TM) Jobsite Security Portable Alarm System base unit and motion sensor(s). Customers agreeing to usage terms need only follow simple instructions to lease and activate the system. SITELOCK(TM) also offers others sensors and accessories designed to communicate wirelessly with the base unit and protect key assets on a jobsite up to 2000 feet away.
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Nevada Commission on Economic Development Welcomes World's Largest Solar Photovoltaic Project

February 17, 2006

CARSON CITY, Nev., Feb. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- The Nevada Commission on Economic Development (NCED) has unanimously granted more than $13 million in business incentives over the next 10 years to SunEdison of Maryland for an 18 megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic (PV) plant to be constructed in southern Nevada. The project is being developed by Powered by Renewables (PBR) of Nevada and SunEdison of Maryland.
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Real Wood Floors: Try Different Looks to Determine What's Right for You

February 16, 2006

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Have you been thinking about wood floors for your home but don't know where to start? There are a number of internet-based tools that can help. One of the most comprehensive web sites available about wood floors is provided by the National Wood Flooring Association, a not-for-profit trade organization dedicated to educating consumers, architects, designers and builders about the benefits of wood flooring. Using the NWFA's web site, http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.woodfloors.org/ , consumers can access a variety of information about wood floors, including the different types, styles, and species of flooring available, as well as information about different finishes available, specialty design elements such as borders, inlays and medallions, and the many benefits that wood floors bring to your home, including promoting a healthier indoor environment and increased value.
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Investigative Services Agencies Making Its Mark in Homeland Security by Opening Safe Room Division

February 15, 2006

CHICAGO, Feb. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Investigative Services Agencies, Inc. announced today that it has opened a new Bio-Safe Room Division that will focus within its Homeland Security operation by bringing to market an affordable Bio-Safe Room that will provide families a room in their own home that will protect them against a bio-terror attack.
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Tyco Offers Free Residential Fire Sprinkler Training to Home Building Industry; Builders and Developers to Learn about Rapid Response(TM), New Sprinkler Requirements; Will Benefit from Hands-On Instruction in Home Fire Safety

February 15, 2006

LANSDALE, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 14, 2006--Tyco Fire & Building Products (TFBP), a division of Tyco International Ltd. (NYSE:TYC; BSX:TYC) and a world leader in fire protection technology, announced today it will offer training seminars in the installation, use and application of its newly-introduced Rapid Response(TM) home fire sprinkler system. Open to any residential home builder or developer, the seminars will educate participants about new home sprinkler requirements, installation standards and unique Rapid Response design features.
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Intrinsyc Announces New Power Management Support Using ARM IEM Technology

February 13, 2006

BARCELONA, Spain--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 13, 2006--3GSM World Congress - Intrinsyc Software International, Inc. (TSX:ICS), a mobility software and services company, today launched a processor-level power management solution for Microsoft(R) Windows(TM) CE 5.0-based products. Using ARM(R) Intelligent Energy Manager (IEM)(TM) software, Intrinsyc is extending its power management product portfolio to exploit Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling (DVFS) hardware techniques, which can significantly reduce power and energy consumption - for IEM technology-based systems, this can be as much as 15-20%(1) at the system level. This delivery of ARM IEM software is its first implementation based on Microsoft(R) Windows(TM) CE 5.0 and enables Intrinsyc's customers to reduce overall power and energy levels in their mobile designs.
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A+ Integrated Solutions Acquired by Bentley

February 10, 2006

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 9, 2006--A+ Integrated Solutions, Inc., one of the largest, longest-standing integrators in the Bentley Reseller Community and a leader in sales, user support, and user satisfaction, today announced that it has been acquired by Bentley Systems, Incorporated. "With the acquisition of A+ Integrated Solutions, Bentley further strengthens its professional services and support capabilities in the southwestern United States," said John Riddle, Bentley senior vice president, North America Operating Unit. "The A+ team of integration experts brings to Bentley and our users almost 20 years of experience in the application of architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) software solutions. More than simply a technology provider, A+ always addresses technical needs with an eye toward the user's business objectives."
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Industry Leaders Select Prolog(R) Software as Corporate Standard for Construction Project Management

February 09, 2006

Meridian Systems announces record growth for Prolog v7.5 in 2005 FOLSOM, Calif., Feb. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Meridian Systems(R), the industry leader in project management software within the construction industry, announced today that Prolog Manager 2005 unit license sales grew 60% over 2004, record year-over-year growth in the company's history. These results are attributed to several new construction firms and building owners that are adopting Prolog version 7.5, which was released in September 2005. Meridian also has identified a trend among organizations that are standardizing on one project management solution to gain better efficiencies.
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JLG To Introduce New Product Lines at The Rental Show

February 08, 2006

MCCONNELLSBURG, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 7, 2006--JLG Industries, Inc. (NYSE:JLG) is introducing a new line of compact telehandlers and four new aerial work platforms at The Rental Show being held in Orlando, Florida from February 7 to February 9, 2006. The Rental Show, sponsored by the American Rental Association, is the annual trade show for rental dealers with over 11,000 attendees from 50 states and over 30 countries expected to attend the 50th anniversary of the show.
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Taking the Mold Risk Out of Building Construction: GREENGUARD Announces a New Program to Protect Lenders, Insurers and Building Developers from Mold Risk

February 07, 2006

ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Mortgage Bankers Association's Commercial Real Estate Finance/Multifamily Housing Convention & Expo -- GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) has announced a mold risk reduction program that for the first time certifies the design, construction and ongoing operations of newly constructed multifamily and commercial properties. GREENGUARD Mold Protection Program(TM) ensures that buildings use industries' best practices for safeguarding against the damage and resulting losses caused by mold. The program fills a void for lenders and building owners that has grown increasingly serious over the last several years. As large court judgments for mold continue to cloud the construction and financing of new buildings, more are turning to mold prevention measures as a way to manage their financial risk.
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Pipe- and Canal Technology at a Glance

February 06, 2006

KASSEL, Germany, February 6/PRNewswire/ -- International trade fair RO-KA-TECH Now in KASSEL/Germany The industry sector pipe-canal- and industry service meets every year at the RO-KA-TECH. Interested visitors can see all the current developments in the cleaning, inspection and repair of pipes and canals. This year's exhibition takes place between the 30th of March and the 1st of April. We have chosen the new location due to its central position. The middle of Germany is easy to reach for national and international visitors commented organizer Ralph Sluke on the move from Leipzig to Kassel. The exhibitors have also shown their appreciation for the move. Covering over 5600 square metres, it is the biggest exhibition since the event was set up.
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QuantaCAD for PDMS Released - Eliminates As-Built Data Remodeling for AVEVA PDMS; Integration of Photo-Realistic Quantapoint 3D Laser Models with PDMS Enables Faster Designs and Less Rework

February 03, 2006

PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 2, 2006--Quantapoint, the world's most experienced and trusted provider of as-built documentation using integrated laser scanning, today announced the release of QuantaCAD(TM). When combined with the AVEVA Laser Model Interface (LMI), QuantaCAD enables Quantapoint's 3D laser models(TM) to be accessed within AVEVA PDMS. 3D laser models are unique Quantapoint technology that integrate laser scan data for an entire facility area to create dimensionally accurate, physically complete and photo-realistic 3D models composed of laser data.
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Unsightly Cracked Patios, Pathetic Pool Sides and Distressed Decks to Be Made a Thing of the Past This Spring with Do-It-Yourself ``Click & Install'' Eco Decking Tiles

February 03, 2006

Home improvement is a snap this spring, as do-it-yourselfers will be "stacking the decks" against cracked concrete patios and unsightly outdoor surfaces with Eco Decking Tiles. Brand new to the U.S., Eco Decking Tiles are made available from the majestic forests of Bolivia and are the most durable and easy to install decking product readily available today. Infinitely easier to put together than a puzzle, these innovative, modular decking tiles utilize a simple and secure interlocking system enabling homeowners to build an entire deck in minutes, at a fraction of the cost of traditional redwood decks.
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Saint-Gobain Vitrage and Shell to Develop a New Generation of Photovoltaic Panel

February 02, 2006

COURBEVOIE, France, February 2/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Saint-Gobain Vitrage, Saint-Gobain's Flat Glass Sector and Shell have signed a memorandum of understanding to produce next-generation solar panels. Shell has developed a new generation of photovoltaic panel based on C.I.S. (Copper Indium Selenide) thin film deposited on glass. This panel does not incorporate silicon wafers. It has been successfully tested and offers record efficiency, especially under low illumination conditions. Saint-Gobain Vitrage brings its experience and in-depth knowledge of thin-film layer deposits and glass transformation, developed after several years operating in the automotive and building markets. This partnership will strengthen Saint-Gobain's competitive advantages in its technical businesses through innovation, which is consistent with the Group strategy of increasing its R&D effort in the High Performance Materials and Flat Glass Sectors. Employing around 37,000 people, Saint-Gobain's Flat Glass Sector (Saint-Gobain Vitrage) generated sales of around to EUR4.7 billion in 2004. Saint-Gobain Vitrage operates in 39 countries and ranks number two worldwide and number one in Europe in the flat glass market. Saint-Gobain Vitrage is organized according to the markets it serves. Its businesses include: Saint-Gobain Glass, which specializes in basic glass products; the Saint-Gobain Glass Solutions network, which processes and distributes glass destined for the architectural and decoration markets; Saint-Gobain Sekurit, the leading supplier of glass to the automotive and transport markets; and finally Saint-Gobain Specialties, which supplies glass products to the domestic appliances and electronics industries, but also to the industrial and commercial equipment industries.
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The Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) Today Launched Their Total Business System for All Painting & Decorating Contractors - PDCA's PASSPORT

February 02, 2006

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- The Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) today launched PASSPORT, the total business system for all painting and decorating contractors. PDCA's PASSPORT Program is designed as a comprehensive guide and on-line tool to unveil in-depth information and practical knowledge about how to operate a successful painting and decorating contracting business. It includes step-by-step approaches to business systems, as well as services to assist members with sales, marketing and other business operations functions. PASSPORT is geared to save members time and money, as well as adding to their bottom line. Included within PASSPORT is a host of product and service providers offering critical business services exclusive to PDCA members and at significantly reduced rates and terms.
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LogicTools Offers Promotional Incentives to Meet Demand for Strategic Supply Chain Planning Solutions; Ease of Use and Superior Performance Drive Interest

February 01, 2006

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 31, 2006--LogicTools, a leading developer of supply chain planning solutions, announced today that it will offer promotional incentives through June 30th to companies wishing to standardize their supply chain planning practice by replacing competing products with LogicTools' industry-leading solutions. Rising interest in using end to end optimization solutions to analyze various supply chain initiatives, such as new product introduction as well as on going supply chain configuration and cost, have motivated many companies to create groups of analysts who specialize in this area. The combination of network design, inventory optimization and production sourcing offered by LogicTools typically covers all of these analyst's decision support needs and is an attractive complement to existing ERP systems. LogicTools' software partnership and certified integrations with SAP make the solutions an easy choice for many companies who have standardized on the SAP platform. In addition, LogicTools releases annual upgrades of all of its solutions and keeps them competitive while maintaining ease of use and performance.
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