January 30, 2008

Green Mountain Energy Company's BeGreen Division Helps Clinton Presidential Center Achieve LEED Platinum Certification Through Renewable Energy Purchase

Expertise of Renewable Energy and Carbon Offset Provider Supports Businesses Going Green

AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- While the William J. Clinton Presidential Center has earned a reputation as the gold standard in environmentally friendly design, the Little Rock, Ark., structure has added a new designation -- the Platinum rating for its LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) certification, thanks in part to its agreement with Green Mountain Energy Company's BeGreen division. Green Mountain Energy Company, the nation's leading provider of cleaner energy and carbon offset products, worked with the Clinton Presidential Center to offset 100 percent of its electricity consumption with renewable energy credits (RECs).

With the help of Green Mountain Energy's strategic approach, the Clinton Presidential Center's purchase of renewable energy from Green Mountain will offset 100 percent of its carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from electricity usage through the end of 2008. Green Mountain has provided similar services to many organizations nationwide, helping these companies achieve LEED certification more than two dozen times since 2006.

"This purchase demonstrates how more businesses today understand the importance of renewable energy and reducing their carbon footprints. They are including the purchase of renewable energy, which helps them meet LEED certification goals, in their sustainability programs," said Gillan Taddune, chief environmental officer of Green Mountain Energy Company. "Still, achieving LEED certification is not easy. Because Green Mountain itself has been through the process of certifying its own offices, the company has become much more than a REC provider for our customers -- they look to us for guidance and experience in navigating the process."

"The Clinton Foundation and The Clinton Presidential Center are excited about working with BeGreen and Green Mountain Energy Company as we continue to fortify our position as a leader in environmental stewardship," said Debbie Shock, director of facilities and operations for The Clinton Foundation. "Former President Clinton takes great pride in green design and protecting the environment. Purchasing renewable energy credits is one way to make sure the Clinton Presidential Center is doing all that it can to make a positive environmental impact."
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January 29, 2008

Facilitating Woodworker Success Focus of Woodcraft Magazine

Magazine's new approach, design creating a buzz among woodworkers

PARKERSBURG, W. Va., Jan. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- An emphasis on woodworking projects, techniques and products is the driving force behind the increased popularity -- and sales -- of Woodcraft Magazine, one of the industry's premier "how-to" publications, according to Editor-In-Chief Jim Harrold.

"Approximately six months ago, we took a hard look at the content and design of Woodcraft Magazine and realized it was time for an overhaul," Harrold stated. "We've refocused our efforts to better facilitate woodworking success among our readers across all skill levels and the changes are being received very favorably."

Harrold said the new and improved magazine features a variety of woodworking projects in each issue -- ranging from traditional furniture to home accessories -- that are broken down into sub-assemblies and simple building steps. This approach makes it easier for hobbyists of all skill levels to successfully complete them.

"We are choosing projects we believe our customers are interested in and that feature attractive designs that are easy to build and affordable to make," Harrold said.

The magazine also utilizes some of the top woodworking writers in the industry to provide editorial and project content. Joe Hurst-Wajszczuk, Scott Phillips, Bob Settich and Craig Bentzley are just a few of the seasoned industry veterans sharing their experience and knowledge with our readers.
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January 28, 2008

Construction Safety Conference Announces Keynotes

18TH Annual Construction Safety Conference and Expo Feb. 12 - 14, Rosemont, Ill.

CHICAGO, Jan. 25 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Sponsors of the 18th Annual Construction Safety Conference and Expo announced today that several top industry executives will be delivering keynote addresses during the conference Feb. 12 & 13, held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill. They include Peter Furst, technical director, Liberty Mutual; Robert Malooly, assistant director for insurance services division; and Thomas Zargas, senior executive vice president of operations, Washington Group International. Dr. John Howard, director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, will deliver the luncheon address Feb. 14 at the NORA 2 Construction Sector Council meeting at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Rosemont.

Conference sponsors are the non-profit Construction Safety Council, CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training (formerly The Center to Protect Workers' Rights), and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The conference and expo, the largest construction-specific safety conference held in the nation, will be Feb. 12 & 13, to be followed by professional development seminars and the NORA Construction Sector council meeting Feb. 14. The Construction Sector Council, a group coordinated by NIOSH and co-chaired by CPWR, has been charged with developing a national occupational research agenda (NORA) for the construction industry for the next decade. The Sector Council will present the top 10 research priority areas identified for the construction industry. All participants are welcome to participate in this meeting and to comment and provide feedback on the draft construction goals.

The 18th annual conference has over 70 sessions offered throughout the three days. In addition to the re-occuring favorites, such as sessions on fall protection, power line safety and workers' compensation issues, new sessions on electrical safety, industrial hygiene issues and workzone safety will be presented. More than 100 exhibitors will be on hand to demonstrate the latest innovations in safety and health products and services. The exhibits will be open Feb. 12 and 13.
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January 25, 2008

DHi Photoluminescent Safety Paint Now Approved for New York City Buildings

ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Defense Holdings, Inc. (DHi) announced that the New York City Department of Buildings has formally granted a Materials and Equipment Acceptance (MEA) number to the company's breakthrough AfterGloTM High Performance Photoluminescent Green safety paint. Now owners of Class E office buildings in New York have an attractive, cost-effective, easy-to-apply alternative to tape-based photoluminescent (PL) safety products currently in use on stairs and stairwell landings. These were initially the only approved products available to address updated building safety requirements mandated by Local Law 26 in 2006.

DHi's High Performance Photoluminescent Green paint is the definitive PL Safety Solution for particularly challenging building environments, including walls and stairwells that exhibit highly worn or irregular surface conditions. DHi's AfterGloTM paint can be brushed or rolled directly on concrete, wood, metal, or painted surfaces. It can be used on floors as well as vertical surfaces such as door trim. It's a tough, abrasion-resistant acrylic polymer coating that resists wear and tear.

Application is simple. And when the job is done, it's easy to clean both brushes and accidental spills with soap and water when the paint is still wet. When properly cured, the coating can be washed with standard household and institutional cleaners and a stiff bristle brush.

An added bonus: For building owners concerned with the environment, DHi's new premium PL paint is the perfect answer. Since it charges with existing ambient light, it requires no additional electricity and doesn't require electric power to operate. It's the ideal "green" solution for emergency stairwell safety, fully compliant with Local Law 26.
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January 24, 2008

Holcim Awards: Application Deadline Approaches

Millions of Dollars Available to Support Sustainable Construction

WALTHAM, Mass., Jan. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- The closing deadline for award submissions is drawing near. The Holcim Awards for Sustainable Construction will only accept applications for this prestigious award until February 29, 2008.

The Holcim Awards are an international competition to recognize designs that meet current needs for housing and infrastructure, as well as create innovative, future oriented, and tangible sustainable construction projects around the world. The competition is an initiative of the Swiss-based Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction and is supported in the North American region by the Holcim Ltd Group companies Holcim (US) Inc., St. Lawrence Cement, and Aggregate Industries.

"Holcim is passionate about promoting advances in sustainable construction," said Patrick Dolberg, chief executive officer of Holcim (US). "Through these awards, we seek to honor those who are at the forefront of sustainable building solutions and inspire similar projects around the globe."

There is a total of $2 million in prize money for the 2008-2009 competition. Regional prizes range from $10,000 to $100,000, with the Global Holcim Awards ranging from $50,000 to $300,000. Nominations and entries will be accepted until February 29, 2008 at http://www.holcimawards.org/. Comprehensive information on the competition requirements and eligibility are also available online. All entries must be submitted online in English only.

Winners of the Holcim Awards five regional competitions (except Next Generation), selected in 2008, will advance to the global competition to be held in 2009.
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January 22, 2008

Green Technology, Low-Cost Upgrade for Commercial and Residential Refrigeration Means Big Fuel and Dollar Savings Now!

General Electric, other manufacturers called upon to act quickly with wide implementation of this simple energy saving technology.

S. FALLSBURG, N.Y., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Inventor Tom Chi is addressing the energy crisis with a GREEN solution that he calls "impossibly simple" and that he describes as "one more Essential action we need to take to reduce energy dependence and fuel costs."

DUCTED AMBIENT AIR COOLING is a breakthrough method for big energy savings in cooler climates. Used in walk-in coolers and also targeting home refrigeration this system uses the seasonally cold air outside of buildings and homes to bypass energy-intensive compressors used in normal refrigeration.

Each year for four+ months exterior temperatures drop below 40 degrees; the temperature required for commercial and residential refrigeration. The patent office is full of complicated schemes to harvest and store or transmute this cold air but Dr. Tom Chi, an acupuncturist, author and inventor from S. Fallsburg, New York tells us that one real solution to reduced energy costs is just plain simple and can be easily assimilated into existing and future refrigeration systems.

We heat our houses in the winter and the refrigerator doesn't know that it's winter outside; it just knows that cold air is still needed. It's the same for walk-in commercial refrigerators; they just require cold air ... all year round!

Chi has a patent pending (11/944,594) for this system that requires an intake and exhaust duct with a fan to circulate and replace warmer air with cold. Other than a filter for outside particulate and some technical planning to size and duct the system Chi says this is inexpensive, highly effective and will result in measurable and meaningful energy savings to reduce the use of electricity.

Walk-in coolers can easily be retrofit at low cost to take advantage of this system and Chi hopes to quickly attract commercial manufacturers as well as residential refrigerator manufacturers who will make simple configuration changes to their units (two small holes are required and can be plugged until use so virtually no cost). Chi says a vent pack can be offered to go with each fridge and be easily installed and working within an hour or two.
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January 21, 2008

Bradco Supply To Certify 155+ Dealer Locations Through “Certified Green Dealer” Program

Bradco Supply is the First National Chain to Commit to Train Its Sales Force and Certify its Dealerships for Green Building

LAKEVILLE, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Certified Green Dealer™ Program today announced that Bradco Supply, a national distributor of building materials with over 155 locations throughout the country, has committed to train its staff and certify all of their branches through the Certified Green Dealer Program. Bradco Supply is the first large distributor to commit to a national rollout of the Program, which launched in late 2007.

The Certified Green Dealer Program is a Web-based “distance learning” program that certifies the nation’s lumberyards and building material dealer locations as sources of information on green building and green products through online training and printed resources. Each Bradco Supply dealer location will be become a Certified Green Dealer when 75% of its sales personnel view a series of Web-based training videos (and pass eight quizzes) about building basics, green building, and green building products. With this Program, Bradco Supply can brand itself as a certified source of information about good green building techniques and green products.

The certification of lumber dealer locations is not affiliated with any particular national standards-setting organization, such as NAHB or USGBC’s LEED program. Indeed, the certification is based entirely on demonstrated mastery by lumber dealer personnel of “best practices” building science and green building basics. The core of the training and certification are eight short-subject videos (each “lunch-and-learn” length of under 25 minutes) which Bradco Supply’s location will access over the Web.
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January 18, 2008

AEP Construction Program Largest in the Industry, Second Largest in the Nation

New emissions-reduction equipment and power generation brought on line in 2007 extend the environmental life of low-cost, coal-fueled generation and boost local economies

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Jan. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- American Electric Power's (NYSE:AEP) aggressive program to install emissions-reduction equipment on its existing plants and build new generation facilities has grown to become the largest in the utility industry and second largest in the nation. The company's construction program was ranked the second largest in the United States and the largest in the utility industry, based on capital invested, in a Nov. 26, 2007 report from Engineering News-Record. Only Alcoa had a larger construction program during the same period. In 2007 alone, AEP completed installation of advanced emissions-control equipment on 3,500 megawatts of coal-fueled generation and started and finished construction of a 340-megawatt gas-fueled power plant.

"By the end of 2007, we'd completed more than two-thirds of the massive $5.1 billion program that we began in 2004 to reduce emissions from our existing coal-fueled generating fleet. We also built a 340-megawatt, natural gas-fueled power plant in Arkansas in record time. It's a testament to the diligence of our employees and the skills of the thousands of contractors who've worked with us that we've successfully managed one of the largest construction programs in the country and completed all of the work on time, or ahead of schedule, and on budget," said Michael G. Morris, AEP chairman, president and chief executive officer.
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January 18, 2008

DuPont, Yellowstone National Park Partner to Address Long-Term Sustainability of Park Structures

DuPont Products Help Protect and Preserve Buildings

WILMINGTON, Del., Jan. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- When construction on the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center at Yellowstone National Park is complete, it will have been outfitted with DuPont(TM) Tyvek(R) Weather Barrier Systems. The DuPont products used in the building, along with others throughout the park, are helping to reduce Yellowstone's overall energy consumption, as well as prepare it for increased visitation while mitigating risk to its natural resources.

"DuPont is proud to help contribute to the preservation of one of the nation's most beautiful natural treasures," said Thomas F. Schuler, vice president and general manager - DuPont Building Innovations. "This partnership is consistent with our commitment to help create sustainable solutions for buildings everywhere."

Through the nonprofit Yellowstone Park Foundation, DuPont is donating its full portfolio of moisture management and weatherization products to help Yellowstone reach its goal of becoming the most sustainable national park in the United States. Yellowstone National Park is embarking on a series of new construction and remodeling projects throughout the park including the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center, the Yellowstone Justice Center and a new Canyon Ranger Station. DuPont(TM) Tyvek(R) Weather Barrier Systems will help reduce the energy load required to heat and cool the buildings and protect structures from air and water penetration, while still allowing moisture to escape.

"We are so pleased to begin this partnership with DuPont and expect it to flourish for years to come," said Paul Zambernardi, executive director, Yellowstone Park Foundation. "DuPont(TM) Tyvek(R) is perfect for the extreme weather in Yellowstone and will assist the Park greatly in its ongoing efforts to improve its energy efficiency."
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January 16, 2008

AIA Launches 'Walk the Walk' - a New Sustainability Campaign for Green Building Design

Program includes new advertising campaign and an aggressive roadmap for making public buildings carbon neutral and reducing overall fossil fuel consumption

WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Institute of Architects (AIA) announced the launch of "Walk the Walk," a multi-faceted campaign to educate, promote and encourage sustainable design among consumers, business owners and architects. The purpose of the program is to help inform the marketplace on the benefits of more energy-efficient homes and buildings, which coincides with the AIA's stated goal of making all buildings carbon neutral by 2030 and helping the U.S. design and construction industry reduce the consumption of fossil fuels in buildings. To advance its efforts in achieving a 50 percent fossil fuel reduction by 2010, the AIA also is implementing a comprehensive communications plan, inclusive of print and online advertising, new media and public relations.

"As America continues to be saturated by messages of 'going green,' there is a general lack of understanding that buildings are one of the primary sources of the greenhouse gases contributing to global warming and climate change," said Christine McEntee, Executive Vice President and CEO of the AIA. "The 'Walk the Walk' program will raise awareness of this issue and provide practical energy saving solutions for people who build, work and live in buildings of all shapes and sizes."

"Now is the time we must highlight the benefits of more energy-efficient homes and buildings to secure the future for our children and their children," said former AIA President RK Stewart, FAIA. "This is a critical initiative for the AIA. The architecture profession is not merely providing resources and metrics that frame the issue of sustainable design, rather, more importantly, the AIA is offering design strategies and innovations that will lead to a healthier planet. This is not a new issue for architects, the AIA has been awarding the country's top green projects since 1997 and have numerous partnerships with government agencies and collaborative relationships with design and construction industry organizations to help advance the cause of sustainable design."
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January 15, 2008

EMCOR Group, Inc. Project Receives Environmental Protection Agency ''2007 Project of the Year'' Award

NORWALK, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--EMCOR Group, Inc. (NYSE: EME), a Fortune 500® leader in mechanical and electrical construction, energy infrastructure and facilities services for a diverse range of businesses globally, is proud to announce that a project recently completed for Greentree Landfill Gas Company has been named the “2007 Project of the Year” by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Landfill Methane Outreach Program.

The project at the Greentree landfill site in Kersey, Pennsylvania converts landfill gas into pipeline-quality natural gas, which is then used to produce environmentally clean electric power while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It is one of the largest such projects in the country. EMCOR Energy Services (EES) designed and constructed the gas compression and cleaning facility, an eight-mile pipeline and a blending and compression station at the connection to National Fuel Gas Company’s interstate pipeline.

“We are honored to have played an integral role in this innovative project and are proud of the recognition it has received,” said Frank T. MacInnis, Chairman and CEO of EMCOR. “Landfill gas upgrade projects of this nature present a unique opportunity to develop renewable energy sources while providing significant environmental and economic benefits. We look forward to continuing to be at the forefront in this area by providing the expertise to bring this important work to fruition.”

January 14, 2008

Fitch: No Light Yet At End of the Tunnel for U.S. Homebuilders

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Continued housing pressures coupled with possible tightening of the conforming loan market segment paint a dismal 2008 for U.S. homebuilders, according to Fitch Ratings in the latest edition of 'Chalk Line'.

'Considerable inventories of new and existing homes for sale boosted by foreclosures will also exacerbate the already dismal forecast for housing this year,' said Fitch Ratings Managing Director and lead Homebuilding Analyst Robert Curran.

The housing contraction unexpectedly gained momentum in 2007 and looks to extend at least well into 2008. Affordability and wavering buyer confidence were the key issues in 2006, while significantly tighter mortgage standards (for subprime and Alt-A) and disrupted mortgage markets were the 'other shoes to drop' in 2007.

Typically homebuilders' operating and financial performances (before non-recurring charges) were quite weak in the third quarter, a pattern that is likely to be replicated in fourth quarter-2007 (4Q'07) results. Deterioration in credit metrics continued in the third and fourth quarters, particularly for profit related metrics. Tangible net worth covenants have been and will be challenged.

Fitch will provide a recap of 3Q'07 as well as insights into the balance of 2007 and outlook for calendar 2008 during a teleconference to be held on Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. ET (separate press release to follow). 'U.S. Homebuilding: The Chalk Line - Quarterly Update: Winter 2007/2008' is available on the Fitch Ratings web site at www.fitchratings.com.
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January 10, 2008

New Middle School Opens with Garden Roof Classroom from American Hydrotech

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The green roof atop the Latin School’s new middle school building is drawing rave reviews from students, parents, educators and environmentalists. The independent, coeducational day school located on the Near North Side of Chicago, opened the doors of its new 80,000-square-foot middle school building this fall. It is among a growing number of schools nationally that have incorporated green roofs into their building designs.

The 5,500-square-foot green roof combines a high-performance waterproof membrane with lightweight green roof technology. The green roof is accessible to students and faculty as a learning environment, providing a rooftop classroom with a spectacular view of the nearby park and lakefront.

“The plantings will be fully established in about a year and I’m excited to see what the classes can fully do with it,” Deb Sampey, middle school director, says. “Its first connection with the curriculum will probably be with our 8th grade and high school astronomy classes. But classes might also come up here for creative writing projects and just sit in this space and be inspired on a beautiful day.”

The multiple components of the Latin School green roof include a waterproofing membrane, insulation, and drainage/moisture retention elements, which are all part of a Garden Roof® Assembly supplied by American Hydrotech, Inc. Hydrotech, founded in 1977 and based in Chicago, is a leader in the development, production and distribution of premium waterproofing and related construction products. Last year, the company’s green roof for the Ballard Library in Seattle, Washington, was included in the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Top 10 Green Projects of 2006.

The Latin School’s new green roof, in addition to its aesthetic qualities, offers multiple environmental benefits. Plants on the roof work to keep the structure's temperature down, save on heating and cooling costs, reduce stormwater runoff, extend the useful life of the roof and reduce the urban heat island effect.
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January 10, 2008

Day-Brite Capri Omega Opens First LEED Certified Lighting Institute

TUPELO, Miss.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Day-Brite Capri Omega (DCO) has opened the world’s first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certified Lighting Institute (LEED-CI) designed to educate visitors about the importance of good lighting and highlight the importance of energy conservation. The 5,000-square-foot DCO Lighting Institute, located within the company’s plant in Tupelo, Miss., will utilize products and techniques that represent the best lighting practices, balancing functionality, controllability and energy consumption in accordance with IESNA/ASHRAE guidelines.

“The demonstration of DCO’s lighting capabilities in both product and design configurations will be a centerpiece of the new facility. The intended purpose is to be able to demonstrate lighting executions that satisfy energy code requirements for a particular application or task while improving on both the quantitative and qualitative aspects of the overall environment,” said Jim O'Hargan, VP/General Manager. “Moreover, the Lighting Institute will itself be certified by LEED under the Commercial Interiors category. By following the LEED guidelines, we improved on our original design intent and therefore want to be able to share this beneficial experience with our customers and visitors. “
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January 10, 2008

Environments for Aging 2008 Conference Features Acclaimed Keynote Speakers

A conference developed for professionals dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the aging

NEW YORK, Jan. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Environments for Aging Conference (www.EFA08.com) is the only professional conference of its kind that focuses on the entire spectrum of senior living in the active baby-boom generation. The conference will take place on March 17-19, 2008 at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa in Tucson, Arizona. Environments for Aging Conference is a comprehensive three-day experience, bringing together architects, owners, developers, facilities managers, design professionals, product manufacturers, and government officials to explore and share new ideas for creating attractive and functional living environments that meet the unique needs of our aging population.

This year's lineup of acclaimed speakers includes:

-- Matt Thornhill, President and Founder, The Boomer Project
Topic: The New Rules for Communicating to Boomers

-- Patricia Moore, President, MooreDesign Associates
Topic: One for the Ages

-- Cynthia Liebrock, Founder, EASY ACCESS TO HEALTH, LLC
Topic: A Future at Home


Each speaker has been chosen for their vision and commitment to the aging community and offer key insight regarding the industry, its future, and the opportunities and challenges it presents. A complete speaker roster, session details and event/registration information can be found at www.EFA08.com.

Environments for Aging 2008 conference will enable you to share common goals, innovations, and best practices in building architecture and design. You will gain inspiration through a gathering of like-minded, forward-thinking individuals who have a vision for the future and who will be instrumental in shaping it.
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January 9, 2008

Boost for Power Tools Division Bosch Acquires Measuring-Tool Specialist RoboToolz

- Provider of leveling lasers for professional users and do-it- yourselfers

- RoboToolz employs roughly 250 associates in China, the U.S., and Germany

STUTTGART, Germany, Jan. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Bosch has acquired the assets of RoboToolz Ltd., headquartered in Hong Kong. In purchasing this specialized leveling-laser business, Bosch is boosting its Power Tools division, and further expanding its activities in the globally dynamic measuring-tools segment. RoboToolz is a leading manufacturer of innovative leveling-laser products, with roughly 250 associates and four locations: two in China (Hong Kong and Dong Guan), and one each in the U.S. (Mountain View) and Germany (Munich).

The companies have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

"In acquiring RoboToolz, we are continuing our growth course in the promising segment of measuring tools," said Uwe Raschke, president of the Power Tools division. "This segment has huge global potential. We want to exploit it," Raschke continued. Intelligent measuring tools such as laser measuring devices, detection devices, and leveling lasers make it easier for professional users and do-it-yourselfers to plan and perform work. For example, gradients, angles, or distances can be measured precisely. Bosch is a leading supplier in the measuring-tools growth segment for do-it-yourselfers and professionals. As the innovation leader, Bosch offers professional users a product range that includes the world's smallest laser measuring device. Bosch was also the first company to successfully introduce a laser measuring device in the European DIY market.

With power tools, accessories, garden tools, and measuring technology, the Bosch Power Tools division in 2006 generated sales of 2.8 billion euros. Of this total, 90 percent was generated outside Germany. The division employs a global workforce of roughly 14,500 associates.
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January 8, 2008

Dano Delivers Remote Staffing Solutions in Seven Critical Steps for Architects & Engineers

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With the demand for architectural services increasing and the labor supply shrinking, small to mid-sized architectural firms can now win their slice of the pie by accessing experienced remote talent.

Remote staffing solutions enable all firms to staff up and compete for larger projects without the burden of adding office space, building additional infrastructure, and worrying about turnover.

“If today’s understaffed architecture and engineering firms are going to grow their businesses, they must train their staff to move from doers to managers,” says Al Danto, CEO of Danto, Inc., a firm which provides distinctive human capital solutions to architects, engineers, and other technical professionals. “Successful engineers and architects are learning to leverage modern technology and remote staffing resources to manage multiple projects instead of completing one or two by themselves.”

In order to take complete advantage of remote staffing solutions, Danto advocates the following seven critical steps:

1. Carefully Select the Tasks and Projects to be Remotely Staffed: Not every type of project and task can be remotely staffed. Projects and tasks that can be well-organized and managed with clear objectives are the best candidates.

2. Understand That You are Not Outsourcing Projects but Contracting Skilled, Experienced Labor on an as needed basis:

Remote staffing does not mean outsourcing projects. It is contracting for and building a team of skilled, experienced staff. Remote staff must be treated the same as any other employee within the organization. Do not expect to send a project out and have it come back 100% complete without your guidance and direction.

3. Budget Time for Training: To ensure success -- take the time to train your remote staff and get them up to speed on your processes, systems, specifications, standards, and other details.

4. Assign a Dedicated Manager to the Team: A dedicated person should be assigned to manage, train, and direct the remote team on a daily basis.

5. Establish a Regular Feedback / Review Process: Good performance should be recognized and rewarded and consequences established for those that do not.

6. Establish Clear Benchmarks and Realistic Expectations: Look at the parts of a project that can be handled remotely, break them down into manageable pieces and make sure each one is done 100% correctly before moving on to other areas. This will build confidence in your team and ensure overall success.

7. Take Advantage of Borderless Team Members: Your team members might be working from anywhere in the world. Take advantage of time difference to create a 2nd shift. Establish a morning meeting to review work done during the night and then use internal resources to advance those projects and schedule a time in the evening to review expectations for the next day.
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January 7, 2008

Sherwin-Williams Closes 7th Acquisition of 2007, Acquires Flex Recubrimientos

Leading Mexico Based Automotive Coatings Manufacturer and Distributor Will Join the Growing Global Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes Subsidiary

CLEVELAND--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Sherwin-Williams Company (NYSE:SHW) announced they have acquired certain assets of Flex Recubrimientos, Acabados Automotrices and related companies. The purchase price was not disclosed.

Headquartered in Monterrey Mexico, the privately owned companies are leading manufacturers and distributors of automotive after-market body fillers, putties, primers and other vehicle refinish products.

With 150 associates, the Flex group of companies has built a strong market share and distribution presence in Northern Mexico with sales of approximately $14Million US.

Founded in 1971, the Flex group has a long history of innovative research and development creating products tailored to the Mexican automotive after-market along with outstanding customer service to 675 distributors.

The Flex group currently operates a manufacturing facility in Monterrey with distribution warehouses in Monterrey, Mexico City, Guadalajara and Tijuana.

Christopher M. Connor, Chairman and CEO of The Sherwin-Williams Company, said, "This seventh acquisition of 2007 is another positive step in our overall global strategy of steady growth and expansion with a quality set of products and people who provide excellent service to our customers. We are pleased to bring the Flex group, a well-respected Mexican company, and their employees into the Sherwin-Williams family.”

Thomas C. Hablitzel, President and General Manager of Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes pointed out, “This latest acquisition will continue to strengthen our geographical integration all across Mexico with exciting growth opportunities, an enhanced product range, more technologically advanced products and an expanding distribution platform to better serve existing and new customers.”

Flex group owner, Francisco Perez Moreno said, “Sherwin Williams is a very well managed and highly respected multi-national company and we are very excited about this acquisition and are confident it will allow us to provide a stronger level of service and support to our customers, both now and in the future."
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January 7, 2008

Alternative Fuel Demand Boosts Prices of Forest Products

CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Power companies in the South and Pacific Northwest will drive prices for wood fuels higher as new facilities are built to produce an energy alternative to fossil fuels, experts in the forest products industry said Friday.

But the supply of wood chips – a byproduct of lumber production used at pulp mills and power facilities – is dropping as residential construction drastically slows in the weak housing market. The reduced supply has raised prices by almost 10 percent since the third quarter of 2006.

“The supply of wood chips is already low because of the problems with the housing market,” said Pete Stewart, president of price information provider Forest2Market. “Increased demand from power facilities will continue to increase prices.”

The current increase in demand for wood fuels is coming from forest products companies in the U.S. that have either updated or installed new boilers that run entirely on biomass – plant material such as wood chips, bark and tree limbs. Forest products companies burn wood fuel to power their operations.

Southern forests are facing additional pressure from Europe as utilities overseas, bound by the Kyoto protocol to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, import wood chips to produce power. The weak dollar has made it cheaper for Europe to import wood fuels to satisfy their energy needs.

The U.S. has not signed Kyoto, but individual states are mandating a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from power companies.

In the Pacific Northwest, the dynamics are slightly different. The majority of wood chips are sawmill byproducts used by the region’s pulp mills. Generally, wood-fueled boilers are fed hog fuel, which is made of bark and other wood waste unsuitable for pulp production.

“With the startup of new power facilities, the forest industry will have the opportunity to earn additional revenue by collecting forest biomass to supplement residual hog fuel,” said Gordon Culbertson, Forest2Market’s Pacific Northwest region manager. “Many companies are seeking creative strategies to develop biomass as an economical source of fuel.”

Nevertheless, prices for wood chips in the Pacific Northwest are increasing because sawmill production is idled by poor lumber demand. To fill the void, small saw logs that would have otherwise been used in lumber production are being chipped.

The demand for wood fuels throughout the country will continue to grow. U.S. utility companies are planning to build biomass-fueled power facilities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and avoid the rising costs of oil. These facilities should come online in the next two to four years, which will further increase competition for wood chips.
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January 4, 2008

Best and Worst Places for Home Inspection

ASHI Reveals its 2007 State Rankings: Louisiana, New Jersey and Arizona Retain Top Three Spots for Protecting Consumers; Homeowners in Florida, Pennsylvania and California Beware

CHICAGO, Jan. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Later this month, when state legislators in Florida, Pennsylvania and California reconvene for the 2008 session, they may want to take a close look at the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) 2007 state ranking of the best and worst home inspection regulation laws in the United States. In the last 10 years, 28 states have enacted some form of home inspection regulation. Many wonder, however, if these laws are enough to protect the interests of consumers.

"Florida is the latest state to regulate home inspection," said Frank Lesh, 2007 ASHI president. "We wonder why lawmakers would enact a law that does not require home inspectors in the state of Florida to take and pass a valid psychometric examination or adhere to standards of practice?"

ASHI's 2007 position statement includes a recommendation that states authorize a sunrise review by a neutral public agency to determine the need, costs, benefits and alternatives to the proposed regulations prior to adoption. This is in addition to ASHI's 2006 provision to evaluate whether laws as drafted are enforceable.

Pennsylvania, for example, was ranked fifth on ASHI's 2005 list but dropped dramatically in 2006 and 2007 because the state's "inspector experience" requirement as stated was not enforceable. California has been ranked dead last for two years because several of its provisions -- including its "prohibited acts" provision, which outlines an inspector's code of ethics -- cannot be enforced.

ASHI says its state ratings are based on a multi-criteria system. Because laws vary significantly from state to state, a detailed set of criteria is used to review each state's regulations to determine the positive elements of legislation as well as areas that might need improvement. States receive points according to the weight or importance ASHI places on different regulation standards and are evaluated against 13 criteria, including experience, education, testing requirements, standards of practice and codes of ethics.
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January 4, 2008

Georgia-Pacific Gypsum Encourages Builders and Architects to Build Paperless

ew Web Site to Promote Moisture-Resistant Building Practices with Paperless Gypsum Products

ATLANTA, Jan. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Georgia-Pacific Gypsum LLC, a leader in innovative building products and practices, continues to encourage the architectural and construction industry to build better by building with paperless gypsum products. As the first gypsum manufacturer to offer gypsum panels with fiberglass mats front and back, rather than paper facings, Georgia-Pacific Gypsum revolutionized the way the commercial construction industry builds. To support this paperless, moisture- and mold-resistant product portfolio, Georgia-Pacific Gypsum has launched www.buildpaperless.com. Architects, specifiers, and building owners and managers can log on to learn more about preventing mold growth during the construction cycle, keeping construction projects on track for completion without delays from weather- related factors, and sustainable building practices.

"Georgia-Pacific Gypsum is changing the way buildings are constructed through the use of paperless gypsum products," said Leo Bissonnette, general sales manager for Georgia-Pacific Gypsum. "Our goal with buildpaperless.com is to provide useful information to the building industry on the scheduling benefits of building with paperless, moisture-resistant gypsum panels."

The Web site features several video profiles from architects and others who attended the American Institute of Architects convention in San Antonio. In addition to information on the Georgia-Pacific Gypsum paperless portfolio available to the building and construction industry, the site includes:

-- Information on what it means to Build Paperless and why it's so
important;
-- Content on green and sustainable building practices; and
-- Resources for education credits.
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January 3, 2008

Gain Insight in to Industrial Nonbuilding Structure Construction in the US

DUBLIN, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c78210) has announced the addition of “Industrial Nonbuilding Structure Construction in the US” to their offering.

This industry comprises: (1) establishments primarily responsible for the entire construction (i.e., new work, reconstruction, or repairs) of heavy industrial non-building structures, such as chemical complexes or facilities, cement plants, petroleum refineries, industrial incinerators, ovens, kilns, power plants (except hydroelectric plants), and nuclear reactor containment structures; (2) establishments identified as industrial non-building construction management firms; and (3) establishments identified as special trade contractors engaged in activities primarily related to industrial non-building construction. Establishments in this industry may subcontract some or all of the actual construction work. Kinds of establishments include industrial non-building general contractors, design builders, engineer-constructors, and joint-venture contractors. This report covers the scope, size, disposition and growth of the industry including the key sensitivities and success factors. Also included are five year industry forecasts, growth rates and an analysis of the industry key players and their market shares.
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January 2, 2008

Akron’s M/W International Awarded GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certification®

The Original Moveable Wall Company Goes Green

AKRON, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--M/W International Inc. (MWI) announced today that its entire Forecast line of architectural demountable partitions has been awarded GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certification®, indicating that they meet the strict requirements of the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI). GEI is the leader in establishing independent standards for low emitting interior products and building materials for healthy indoor air.

Since indoor air is often four to five times more polluted than outside air, facility managers are becoming increasing aware of the dangers it can present. At high levels, buildings can become “sick,” causing people to experience headaches, become lethargic, and fatigued. Illness and lost productivity due to indoor air pollution and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) costs businesses $60 billion annually, according to a recent EPA report.
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January 2, 2008

Outlook Good for Masonry and Stone Contractors in the US According to New Report

DUBLIN, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c77918) has announced the addition of Masonry and Stone Contractors in the US to their offering.

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in masonry work, stone setting, and other stone work. The masonry work, stone setting, and other stone work performed includes new work, additions, alterations, and maintenance and repairs. Activities performed by establishments in this industry range from the construction of foundations made of block, stone, or brick to glass block laying; exterior marble, granite and slate work; and tuck pointing. This report covers the scope, size, disposition and growth of the industry including the key sensitivities and success factors. Also included are five year industry forecasts, growth rates and an analysis of the industry key players and their market shares.

Rolling stones.

It is only rock n stone but the downstream mining and industrial building construction markets are jumpin jack hammering and the industry is getting satisfaction. Expected to start up again soon is the residential construction market and the industry outlook is honky tonk. Reputable operators are cementing their reputation via marketing and sourcing niche markets for accelerated growth.
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January 2, 2008

New Report Contains Five Year Forecasts for the Concrete Contractors Industry in the US; Solid Growth Expected

DUBLIN, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c78065) has announced the addition of Concrete Contractors in the US to their offering.

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in the use of concrete and asphalt to produce parking areas, building foundations, structures, and retaining walls, and in the use of all materials to produce patios, private driveways, and private walks. Activities performed by these establishments include grout and shotcrete work. The concrete work performed includes new work, additions, alterations, and maintenance and repairs. This report covers the scope, size, disposition and growth of the industry including the key sensitivities and success factors. Also included are five year industry forecasts, growth rates and an analysis of the industry key players and their market shares.

Concrete Growth

This growing industry has been building on developments in technology, enabling substitution of traditional building materials with concrete. Before setting this ideal into concrete, new entrants may have difficulty competing with existing contractors, in a relatively volatile market, and an established reputation for quality of workmanship, timeliness or financial security, even with light regulation and low concentration within the industry.
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