- Principles of Smart Growth, Urbanism, and Green Building Showcased in Stonehaus' Inter-Active Neighborhood - CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., July 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Stonehaus, a premier full-service real estate development company in Central Virginia, announced today that its Inter-Active Neighborhood located in Charlottesville, Belvedere, has been accepted into the LEED(R) for Neighborhood Development Pilot Program, which is being conducted by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Belvedere is the first neighborhood in Central Virginia to participate in this new LEED program, which has developed the highest benchmark system for environmentally responsible and sustainable development. Located on 207 acres off of Rio Road East in Albemarle County and close to downtown Charlottesville, Virginia, Belvedere will be a mixed-use neighborhood comprised of more than 400 Energy Star* and EarthCraft** certified homes, neighborhood retail space, green office buildings, loft apartments, and a civic core. Belvedere's Inter-Active Neighborhood design reflects three key elements: showing a commitment to nature and sustainability, encouraging social interaction, and embracing healthy lifestyles. "We are thrilled to be part of the LEED for Neighborhood Development Pilot Program. From the outset, Belvedere was not just about building green homes, but designing an entire neighborhood that supports a vibrant, interactive, healthy community based on sustainability. Receiving LEED certification for an entire neighborhood will be a challenge, but one that Stonehaus is ready and willing to meet for the residents of Charlottesville and Central Virginia," said Chris Schooley, Director of Development at Stonehaus. The LEED for Neighborhood Development rating system integrates the principles of smart growth, urbanism, and green building into the first national rating system for neighborhood design. The rating system will be a tool to help planners and developers create communities that not only protect the environment, but also address important public health issues such as physical activity, traffic accidents, respiratory illnesses, and affordable housing. "Communities such as Belvedere can play a tremendous role in community development and serve as an example for other developments," said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. "LEED for Neighborhood Development is designed to recognize and certify neighborhoods, such as Belvedere, that encourage a healthier lifestyle by placing services, workplaces and schools within walking distance, provide attractive and safe pedestrian paths, and create neighborhoods in a smarter, healthier, more sustainable manner." LEED for Neighborhood Development is a collaboration between the U.S. Green Building Council, the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU), and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). The rating system will evaluate communities on criteria related to smart location and linkage to the community at large; neighborhood pattern and design; and green construction and technology. LEED certification provides independent, third-party verification that a development's location and design meet accepted high standards for environmentally responsible, sustainable, development. The pilot program is expected to conclude in 2008. Based on feedback gathered during the pilot, the rating system will be revised to improve its effectiveness and applicability to the marketplace. The revised rating system will then be balloted according to USGBC's consensus process and undergo approval by CNU and NRDC.

Wholesale Distributor now Saving over $300,000 Annually from Reduced Operating Costs and Reducing Polluting Emissions by Millions of Pounds ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill., July 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Lime Energy (BULLETIN BOARD: LMEC) announced the completion of a major interior, energy-efficient lighting system upgrade for Associated Food Stores' (AFS) distribution center in Farr West, Utah. The project, valued to Lime at approximately $725,000, will save AFS approximately $310,000 annually in energy savings alone. "This project is expected to reduce energy consumption by an estimated 4,738,000 kilowatt hours per year and has reduced the facilities peak demand by 544.4 kW," commented Reid Cram, project lead for Lime Energy. "The negotiated and secured incentive from Rocky Mountain Power for this project reduced upfront capital requirements, lowering the pay back period for the investment to one year. This payback period can be further reduced as the project qualifies for significant federal tax credits under the Energy Policy Act of 2005."

NEW YORK, July 31/PRNewswire/ -- - International Business District Being Developed by New York Company to Help Set Standard for Neighborhood Development; Largest Project Outside North America The New Songdo City International Business District in South Korea being developed by New York's Gale International has been accepted as a pilot project and partner by the U.S. Green Building Council for its LEED for Neighborhood Development (LEED-ND) certification, the first national standard for neighborhood design. The LEED-ND rating system for green urbanism will be a tool to help planners and developers create communities that not only protect the environment, but also address important public health issues. Songdo International Business District will play a pioneering role in helping to set this standard for sustainable urban planning and smart growth based on criteria such as density, proximity to transit, environmental preservation, mixed housing type, and pedestrian-friendly design. Songdo International Business District (IBD) is unusual in that it is seeking LEED-ND certification for an entire city. By its very design -- the result of a ground-up, master plan based on sustainability principles -- Songdo will be an environmental standout not only in Asia, where many urban areas are in a state of environmental crisis, but the world. Songdo is one of only three LEED-ND projects in Asia (two much smaller projects are in China), and one of only five outside the United States and Canada. Indeed, Songdo IBD is by far the largest project outside North America to be included in the 18-month pilot program. "LEED-ND is about more than green buildings -- it's about enhancing and protecting the overall health, natural environment and quality of life of a community," said Stanley C. Gale, Chairman and Managing Partner of Gale International. "We believe LEED-ND will set the standard, both in the U.S. and internationally, for sustainable neighborhoods and cities for decades to come," said John B. Hynes, III, CEO and Managing Partner of Gale International. "The LEED for Neighborhood Development program goes beyond individual green buildings and focuses on community-wide design and development," said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. "Our pilot projects are pioneers, and are leading the way for the development of smarter and healthier communities." Gale International is a premier international real estate investment and development company with headquarters in New York and offices in Boston; Irvine, California; Seoul and New Songdo City, South Korea. Gale began constructing the US$25 billion, 1,500-acre Songdo International Business District in 2004 in a 70/30 joint venture partnership with POSCO E&C. It is estimated that when completed in 2014, Songdo will be home to 65,000 people and that 300,000 will work there. Songdo is located along the coast of Incheon, 35 miles southwest of Seoul, and will be linked directly to Incheon International Airport by a 7.4 mile highway bridge. Songdo IBD's participation in the LEED-ND pilot is being overseen by YRG Sustainability Consultants. Whitman Strategy Group, Gale International's primary environmental advisor, and Terrapin Bright Green are also key contributors to the initiative. In addition Gale International intends to work closely with the recently formed Korea Green Building Council. Long-term sustainability and the minimization of the city's carbon footprint have been considered in every design and engineering decision by master-plan architect Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates PC, and chief engineers Arup and Cosentini Associates. "Green principles permeate Songdo's DNA making it a model of the best environmental practices not only today, but also adaptable for future challenges," said Christine Todd Whitman, President of the Whitman Strategy Group and former Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Mrs. Whitman is a member of the Gale International Advisory Board. The Songdo International Business District, "The Gateway to Northeast Asia," will be the first new city in the world designed and planned as an international business district. Designated a Free Economic Zone, Songdo will include fifty million square feet of office space, thirty million square feet of residential space, ten million square feet of retail, five million square feet of hotel space and ten million square feet of public space. Every conceivable cultural and recreational amenity will be available including a world class hospital, an international preparatory school, a Central Park, an art museum and a Jack Nicklaus golf course. More information can be found at www.NewSongdoCity.com. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System(TM) is a voluntary third-party rating system in which credits are earned for satisfying specified green building criteria. Projects are evaluated within six environmental categories: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, and Indoor Environmental Quality. Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels of green building certification are awarded based on the total credits earned. The LEED standard has been adopted nationwide by federal agencies, state and local governments, and interested private companies as the industry standard of measurement for green building. LEED-ND focuses on residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects developed by a single entity.

1.9 Kilowatt SunPower Solar Electric Systems Included as Standard Feature SANTA ROSA, Calif., July 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Homebuilder Hugh Futrell Corporation and SunPower Corporation (NASDAQ:SPWR) , a manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, today announced the opening of Bridge Trail at The North Village, Sonoma County's first solar-electric new home community. Each of the 43 homes at Bridge Trail features a 1.9 kilowatt SunPower rooftop solar panel system, which is expected to save homeowners 50 percent to 75 percent on their monthly electric bills. Additionally, the solar electric power systems qualify homebuyers for a one-time federal tax credit of up to $2,000. Over 30 years, each Bridge Trail home will offset the production of 39,500 pounds of carbon dioxide, which is equivalent to planting 30 acres of trees or not driving 49,000 miles on California's highways. "Solar power is good for the environment and our communities. It's reliable and produces no greenhouse gases or noise," said Hugh Futrell, president of Hugh Futrell Corporation. "Including solar power in these new homes is the right thing to do for the environment, and we are pleased to offer solar as a standard feature to the new homebuyers in Sonoma County with our Bridge Trail new home community." "The Hugh Futrell Corporation has chosen the most efficient solar technology in the world to power these homes," said Bill Kelly, general manager of the New Homes Division at SunPower. "As a result, Bridge Trail homeowners will achieve significant savings on their utility bills while generating their own clean, renewable power." Homes in the Bridge Trail community are also equipped with natural-gas-powered tankless hot water heaters that will save up to 50 percent of the energy normally required to heat the same amount of water with a storage tank water heater. Bridge Trail offers outdoor amenities such as 11 acres of adjacent private open space and trails, a planned new two-acre public park and very close proximity to soccer and softball fields at the new Jack London Elementary and Piner Olivet Charter Middle School. In addition, Bridge Trail homeowners will be able to take advantage of a private 4,000-square-foot community center, which will work with neighborhood schools and Santa Rosa's Parks and Recreation Department to provide unique learning and recreational programs for North Village residents.

Budapest, July 24, 2007 - The Christchurch Women's Hospital is Chow:Hill’s largest single building project to date. The company provided services as health planner, architect and project manager. Chow:Hill received the New Zealand Engineering Excellence Award for their effort. Many months of close consultation with hospital staff has generated a facility design that reflects modern healthcare services and a realistic project budget. It is also one of the very few seismically base-isolated structures in New Zealand, designed to remain standing in case of an earthquake. With a full complement of services - from theatres to radiology - the building is intended to operate as a stand-alone crisis unit in case of civil emergency “Over the 15 years that we have been using ArchiCAD at Chow:Hill, the type of projects we have been working on have just gotten bigger and more complex. As the scale of these projects increased, we witnessed a significant change to the core business benefits we experience when using ArchiCAD: From a design tool first and foremost, to increasingly a means to managing building information and its flow,” says Darryl Carey, a Director at Chow:Hill, Auckland, New Zealand.

Agreement to expand sale of UNI-SOLAR(R) products AUBURN HILLS, Mich., July 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- United Solar Ovonic LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Energy Conversion Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:ENER) , announced today that it has signed a three-year distributor agreement with Advanced Green Technologies, Inc. for $108 Million of Photovoltaic (PV) products. A unit of Advanced Roofing, Inc., Advanced Green Technologies is offering sustainable building integrated solutions and renewable energy products for commercial and residential roofing applications using UNI-SOLAR(R) products. California and 12 other states have recently embraced energy efficiency initiatives and renewable energy policies in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. "We are convinced that our relationship with Advanced Green Technologies will further successful installations of building integrated solar power systems and demonstrate the use of UNI-SOLAR(R) products for improved energy self-reliance," said Subhendu Guha, President and Chief Operating Officer of United Solar Ovonic. Unlike traditional crystalline technology, which typically uses heavy glass panels, UNI-SOLAR(R) products are flexible, durable, lightweight, and easy to install. Because of these characteristics, UNI-SOLAR(R) triple- junction products offer the ideal solution for both grid-connected and off- grid solar electric systems. Independent studies in Europe and elsewhere have shown that triple-junction products deliver more energy per rated power than the conventional crystalline products.

SAN FRANCISCO, July 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) said today it has surpassed $1 billion in loans for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED(R)) certified buildings. Since 2004, Wells Fargo has financed 19 LEED buildings in 10 states with loans ranging from $10 million to $225 million for offices, apartments, condominiums and schools, representing a range of financing solutions. "Green" features include: -- Green roofs covered with vegetation to help conserve energy -- Storm water management systems that collect and recycle rain or gray water -- Water efficient landscaping -- Air quality measures (more effective ventilation, using low-emitting materials) -- Built-in recycling areas in buildings -- On-site renewable energy sources -- solar or geothermal LEED is a voluntary, consensus-based green building rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for constructing high-performance, sustainable buildings. "We can help protect the environment by supporting the development of energy efficient buildings," said Larry Chapman, head of Commercial Real Estate at Wells Fargo, who attributes much of Wells Fargo's success in this area to its experienced developer and investor customers. "Wells Fargo has set ambitious lending targets and will continue to develop our expertise by training our lenders about green building practices." "We applaud Wells Fargo's leadership efforts," said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair of the USGBC. "Buildings are responsible for 39 percent of CO2 emissions in the U.S., which directly impacts global climate change -- however LEED buildings consume half the energy of conventional buildings. Companies such as Wells Fargo and Thomas Properties are outstanding examples for other organizations to follow." Most recently, Wells Fargo loaned $42.7 million to Thomas Properties Group, L.P. for the Four Points Centre, a 192,000 square-foot complex in Austin, Texas, of two three-story buildings that are expected to earn LEED certification. "We believe that high performance buildings such as Four Points Centre have a favorable influence on employee health, comfort, productivity, recruitment and retention. These benefits have a significant impact on the employers' bottom line," said Jim Thomas, CEO of Thomas Properties Group, Inc. "High performance buildings will be the growth engine for real estate for years to come." Wells Fargo considers energy efficiency in its own operations. It participates in the USGBC's Portfolio Program to create a prototype for its retail banking stores that meets LEED standards. Its datacenters include energy saving free-cooling systems and a number of its administrative buildings, including headquarters, are Energy Star rated for top performance in energy efficiency. Wells Fargo & Company is a diversified financial services company with $540 billion in assets, providing banking, insurance, investments, mortgage and consumer finance through almost 6,000 stores and the internet (wellsfargo.com) across North America and internationally. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. is the only bank in the U.S., and one of only two banks worldwide, to have the highest credit rating from both Moody's Investors Service, "Aaa," and Standard & Poor's Ratings Services, "AAA." Commercial Buildings and Energy Facts*: -- Commercial and residential buildings consume 39 percent of our nation's energy. -- 70 percent of energy consumed by commercial buildings is for heating and lighting. -- Last year, commercial sales of electricity exceeded 1.3 trillion kilowatt hours of electricity averaging 9.36 cents per kilowatt ($122 billion). -- Since 2000, average US retail electricity prices for commercial customers have risen 25 percent. -- US commercial energy demand is expected to increase 32 percent by 2020. -- Most U.S. electricity comes from non-renewable sources; about 2 percent comes from non-hydro renewable sources such as wind, solar and geothermal. *Source: Energy Information Administration and Department of Energy

LINTHICUM, Md., July 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- JG Architectural Supply unveils a new, exclusive, and environmentally friendly hardwood flooring product for commercial and residential application. When one considers hardwood flooring for a high-end project, exotic species like Brazilian Cherry and Tigerwood often come to mind. Others consider upscale domestic products such as Antique Heart Pine and American Walnut. All of these products make for an extraordinary floor, and they all can be environmentally sound if properly sourced. However, there exists a segment of the consumer market that desires a product a cut above the rest. Whether it's for a multi-million dollar dream home, an executive office, or a trendy restaurant, some consumers desire the utmost in grandeur. For these customers, JG Architectural Supply has reset the bar on prestigious flooring with its exclusive Antique Brazilian Barnwood. The species used in JG's Brazilian Barnwood flooring is known as Peroba. This beautiful wood was once considered the timber of choice for construction in Brazil. However, after years of over-harvesting the Peroba has become scarce; it is now illegal to harvest this species in South America. JG Architectural Supply has created their unique product by starting with antique Peroba timbers recovered from 100-200 year old barns and factories throughout the Brazilian countryside. This makes their flooring product truly eco-friendly, as it contains 100% recycled content. All of these antique timbers are then kiln-dried and custom-milled right here in the United States for the utmost in quality control. The end result is a beautiful exotic product that is rich in history. Because there is a very limited source of antique Peroba, this product carries a high price tag -- it retails for about $28 per square foot.

Miami's Tamiami Automotive Group to be nation's first-ever LEED 'Gold Certified' automobile dealership - New facility to be developed on former Superfund site - Chrysler announces plans to develop an incentive program for dealers interested in environmentally-friendly building MIAMI, July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Ground was broken today for a facility that, when completed, will be the most environmentally-friendly automobile dealership in the country. The Tamiami Automotive Group announced plans to relocate and expand to a building that will achieve the prestigious Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) "Gold Certification." The LEED Green Building Rating System is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings. It was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, a 10,000-member non-profit building trade organization, which has developed the LEED system to promote a whole-building approach to sustainability. LEED recognizes performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. In conjunction with the event, Chrysler announced plans to give other dealers in their network incentives to pursue LEED certification. "We are proud of the way that Carlos Planas and his team at Tamiami have embraced their environmentalism," said Steven Landry, Executive Vice President -- NAFTA Sales, Global Marketing, Service and Parts for Chrysler. "This dealership has set the bar for environmentally-friendly dealers, and will be a model for other dealerships in our network. We are pleased to announce plans to provide support for other dealers interested in building green to achieve their goals and enhance their communities." The Chrysler program will give support to dealers interested in obtaining LEED certification in their efforts in everything from design and materials choices to landscaping and energy management systems. Specific examples of sustainable design principles would include: -- Selecting paints, sealants and adhesives with low VOC (volatile organic compound). -- Using heating and air conditioning components which avoid HCFC refrigerants. -- Increasing the thermals values of the exterior, including high performance glass. -- Providing energy management and monitoring systems. -- And harvesting storm water run-off for landscape irrigation. Many of Chrysler's facilities already use several of these concepts. The program would also give recognition to dealers who are leaders in environmental activism. The new Miami-area 18-acre location is a former Superfund site that previously was home to a lumber yard. Upon completion, the new 400,000 square- foot facility will be the most environmentally-friendly auto dealership in the country, with numerous water conservation and energy management systems, and a design that relies on natural light rather than artificial. "We are reusing land that was contaminated and revitalizing it to build an eco-friendly structure that cooperates with the environment," said Carlos Planas, Chairman of Tamiami Automotive Group. "We owe it to our children and grandchildren to do everything possible to conserve our environment. We view this as a must, and encourage others to do the same." Chrysler is dedicated to protecting the health of its communities, natural resources and the global environment. The company addresses environmental challenges by working continuously to improve the environmental performance of its products and operations. The company supports the development of advanced sustainable technologies and is an industry leader in promoting the use of alternative fuels.

GREENBELT, Md., July 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- More than just new ground is being broken at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., with the construction of a new, environmentally friendly sciences building. The three-story office and laboratory building, known as the "Exploration Sciences Building," was designed by EwingCole, a 350-prson architecture and engineering firm with offices in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. The official groundbreaking ceremony occurred on July 16 at Goddard. Speakers included Dr. Edward Weiler, NASA Goddard's center director, Laurie Leshin, director of sciences and exploration at NASA Goddard, and Congressman Steny H. Hoyer, Representative of Maryland's Fifth Congressional District. Armed with their golden shovels, they each assisted with the first dig on the site. "NASA's new eco-friendly science building will provide state of the art laboratories and technology for our scientists, giving them access to modern tools and facilities for continued world class research in space and Earth science, and in support of NASA's mission," said Weiler. Also in attendance from NASA were Shana Dale, deputy administrator, NASA Headquarters, Washington; Dr. Colleen Hartman, deputy associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate; and Charles Scales, associate deputy administrator. Other attendees include Judith Davis, Mayor of Greenbelt, Md.; Ingrid Turner of the Prince George's County Council; and Leta Mach of the Greenbelt City Council. The multi-million dollar Exploration Sciences Building is the first building project of the Goddard Space Flight Center's campus master plan, and serves as a "launching pad" for NASA-driven space science research over the next 50 years and anchors a new pedestrian-friendly "science neighborhood." "EwingCole applied unique design strategies to address NASA's needs and to create a sustainable facility," said Jim Wolters, AIA, chief operating officer at EwingCole. "EwingCole created a flexible layout with collaborative spaces strategically located in coordination with NASA's organizational structure and the building circulation to facilitate informal interaction between scientists. Working in conjunction with laboratory planning consultant M+W Zander, the project team developed a design which allows for the efficient and effective configuration of utilities and laboratory spaces, including new chemistry, electronics and research laboratories." The new building will be occupied by personnel from the Astrophysics Science Division, the Solar Systems Exploration Division, as well as the Directorate office itself. The building is LEED (R) Registered and actively pursuing LEED for New Construction Silver Certification. The LEED (R) Green Building Rating System (TM) is a voluntary building certification program that defines high-performance green buildings that are environmentally responsible and healthier structures. What makes this a "green building" is that EwingCole has integrated sustainable design initiatives on sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. NASA has determined that all new facilities projects will reach the Silver rating. The Silver rating signifies a high level of commitment to designing, procuring, and installing environmentally friendly materials and incorporating sustainable practices in both design and construction. David Larsen, Exploration Sciences Building Project Manager at Goddard said, "The NASA team is looking forward to this first major step in the execution of the GSFC Facilities Master Plan. The Exploration Sciences Building will serve as the primary tie in the overall effort of unifying the currently divided east and west campuses." NASA has awarded a contract to Manhattan Construction Company of Fairfax, Va., for the construction of the building, beginning later in 2007.

Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax and America's oil and natural gas industry help make low-income homes more energy efficient ARLINGTON, Va., July 14 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax, the local affiliate of the nation's largest volunteer home rehabilitation organization, and America's oil and natural gas industry today helped residences of a Community Residence group home reduce their energy use and save money as part of an energy-efficient rebuild of their home. The rebuild is part of the Energy Efficient Homes Initiative, a national partnership between Rebuilding Together and America's oil and natural gas industry, which incorporates energy efficiency into home renovations for homeowners nationwide, many of whom are living off a modest income, elderly, disabled or have young children. The Initiative is an additional component of the 19-year-old national Rebuilding Together program that will revitalize nearly 10,000 homes across the country this year. With the help of the Initiative, Rebuilding Together will provide homeowners the ability to reduce their energy consumption by as much as 30 percent. "This is a wonderful partnership. Together, we are making a positive difference in the lives of those most in need," said Patti Dennis, executive director, Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax. "Providing low-income homeowners the tools to dramatically improve energy efficiency enables them to save money and use it for other immediate needs such as food and health care." "America's oil and natural gas industry practices energy efficiency every day within its operations, so we know the significant value of such a commitment," said Rebecca Dobbins, external relations, American Petroleum Institute. "We are delighted to partner with Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax in this outstanding initiative. Our efforts will provide low-income homeowners the dual benefit of saving both energy and money." Last year, the Initiative was highlighted in 18 rebuilds nationwide, saving homeowners of modest means thousands of dollars thanks to a variety of energy-saving features incorporated into their homes. Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax is renovating more than 60 homes throughout the area this year, with the Community Residences group home being the first to receive energy-saving renovations. Since 1975, Community Residences has served individuals with mental and physical disabilities and has worked to support independent living that enhances each individual's dignity, self-esteem and quality of life. Originally built in 1924, the North Fillmore Street home became a Community Residences long-term residential assisted living group home for adults with mental illness in 1987. As part of the Initiative, this Community Residences group home will receive new weather-stripping and caulking around doors and windows, light fixtures with compact fluorescent lights and four ceiling fans. Other renovations to the house include interior and exterior painting as well as landscaping. "For most Americans, our home is our sanctuary. On behalf of the seven men and women who call North Fillmore Street their home, we are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Initiative's energy-saving outreach program," said Dennis J. Manning, president and CEO of Community Residences, Inc. "Not only will our residents reap the immediate benefits of greater comfort throughout the year, but also, Community Residences as a non-profit organization will be able to save precious resources over the long term that can be redirected to other important program needs and services," added Manning. In addition to making homes more energy-efficient, the Initiative also provides low-income homeowners, volunteers and others with materials, and information to help them use energy wisely now and in the future.

WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In an effort to develop earth-friendly land use policies and fight global warming, the West Hollywood City Council will consider final approval of the Green Building Requirements and Incentives for Private Development Ordinance (Green Building Ordinance) for both residential and commercial development at its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, July 16, 2007, at West Hollywood Park Auditorium, 647 N. San Vicente Boulevard. If adopted, the ordinance will establish one of the first mandatory "green building" programs in the country. "The City has been a leading force in enacting policies to promote the environment. Passage of the Green Building Ordinance continues this legacy and represents a truly collaborative effort between the public and private sectors," said West Hollywood Councilmember Abbe Land, who co-sponsored the item. "Together, we will continue to make West Hollywood a sustainable place to live and work for our future," she continued. The Green Building Requirements and Incentives for Private Development Ordinance focuses on the following: 1. Establishes new development standards that apply to all development, including all new residential and commercial projects as well as remodels and tenant improvements; 2. Develops a point system for new construction with incentives for projects that achieve "exemplary" status; and 3. Implements "green building" education and outreach program. The "green" development standards are green building requirements for remodels, tenant improvements, additions and new construction. These standards will be incorporated into the Zoning Ordinance so that all projects incorporate elements such as drought-tolerant landscaping, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and energy efficient appliances. The green building point system will be incorporated in all new structures, with incentives for projects that go above and beyond minimum requirements. The requirements are structured as a point system to allow for maximum flexibility and the points allowed each reflect West Hollywood’s unique opportunities and constraints. Specifically, the point system was designed to emphasize locally-available materials, encourage green elements to be incorporated early into project design and provide flexibility to alter green elements as the project evolves. The education and outreach component of the Green Building Ordinance includes the establishment of a Green Building Resource Center at West Hollywood City Hall which will include educational materials and provide information and outreach to the development community, homeowners, renters, and businesses. This includes a manual for the City’s Green Building Ordinance to explain each requirement. Since its incorporation in 1984, the City of West Hollywood has embraced "Responsibility for the Environment" as one of the City of West Hollywood's core values. The City of West Hollywood has made many notable achievements in support of sustainability and green practices including: * Greening West Hollywood Plan - The Greening West Hollywood Plan was created to protect and enhance the urban forest by identifying public-rights-of-way to create increased green space within the City. The plan identifies multiple strategies - some of which are large such as new parks and some of which are small such as planting of trees within the City. * Food Waste Recycling Program - The Food Waste Recycling Program was established in 2004. It's an innovative program that collects food waste from more than 200 restaurants in the City which is then processed into compost for agricultural uses. The program has won a number of awards for its earth-friendly practices. * Committing to purchase hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles - Since 2003 the City of West Hollywood has made a commitment to energy efficient vehicles. Currently, more than 90 percent of the City's parking enforcement vehicles are hybrids. As older vehicles go off line they are replaced with hybrids. * Green Rooftops Program - The Green Rooftop Program adds vegetative rooftops to future city buildings in order to promote occupant health and comfort while minimizing negative impacts on the environment. * Joining the California Climate Action Registry - In 2006, the City joined the California Climate Action Registry to voluntarily monitor and quantify its greenhouse gas emissions particularly carbon dioxide on an annual basis. This helps to identify ways to reduce emissions that could lead to global warming. * Electronic and Household Waste Disposal - The City of West Hollywood provides electronic and household waste disposal information on its website. The City also regularly provides drop-off locations for residents to dispose of electronic and household waste that has many highly-toxic components such as mercury, PCBs, PVC coated cables, cadmium and lead.

Efforts Help Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia Build First Low-Income LEED-certified Homes in Philadelphia; Metro Camden Habitat for Humanity Rehabilitate Home PHILADELPHIA, July 12 /PRNewswire/ -- GMAC Financial Services is providing volunteers and financial support to two local Habitat for Humanity affiliates to help build decent affordable housing for families in Camden, N.J. and Philadelphia, including the first low-income, LEED-certified homes in Philadelphia. During the course of the two builds, approximately 100 volunteers representing GMAC Mortgage, a subsidiary of GMAC's real estate finance group, will help build the homes. Addressing both the growing need for affordable housing and the development of green building, Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia is constructing Philadelphia's first low-income LEED-certified green homes, to be sold through zero-interest mortgages to families in need. GMAC is one of several sponsors, including GlaxoSmithKline, JP Morgan Chase, Nationwide, USAIR, and the Patrick J. Monaghan Foundation, that are working to complete seven three-story homes in the East Parkside neighborhood. "Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia is dedicated to building quality and affordable homes that benefit both the families and our community," said Timothy Block, executive director for Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia. "We believe that building green homes will make a positive impact on the homeownership experience by providing continued affordable living through the savings created through the use of energy efficient materials and appliances. The project is also designed to demonstrate the ease and affordability of incorporating environmentally friendly practices into construction and thus encourage a change in building in Philadelphia in general." LEED-certified homes are built with innovative materials and systems that save energy and reduce environmental impact, saving the homeowner money in the long-run through the use of energy-efficient appliances and building materials. Other benefits include reduced greenhouse gas emissions and less exposure to mold, mildew and other indoor toxins. GMAC Mortgage associates will help Metro Camden Habitat for Humanity build interior walls in a gutted row home for a local family in the Cooper Plaza neighborhood of Camden City. Construction for the three-bedroom, one and a half-bathroom house began in early May with demolition of the existing interior structure and should be completed before Christmas. Other Build Day sponsors in June that will be working on the same house, as well as an adjacent house include American Water, Commerce Bank and United Water. "We are grateful for GMAC's continued support to team with Metro Camden Habitat for Humanity to re-habilitate Camden City's neighborhoods," said Doug Wagner, executive director for Metro Camden Habitat for Humanity. "We salute the important work of Habitat for Humanity in creating safe, decent and affordable housing," said John Gray, executive vice president of Business to Consumer Lending for GMAC ResCap, the parent company of GMAC Mortgage. "GMAC associates are active on behalf of Habitat because we believe in supporting the communities where we live and work, and we know that homeowners play a vital role in building safe, strong and healthy communities." Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the United States and internationally are joining GMAC Financial Services and GMAC ResCap to provide funding and more than 1,000 volunteers to help build 16 Habitat homes in the United States, as well as additional homes in Canada, Mexico, and Australia.

FERNDALE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Homeowner demand for environmentally responsible building products continues to increase, with no end in sight. Now, a new line of wood products promises to deliver the beauty, workability, and longevity of domestic and exotic hardwoods, without the costly “environmental price tag.” Alowood by EverTech replaces expensive, high-demand, or increasingly scarce hardwoods such as ebony, rosewood, and walnut, using a relatively simple process. Starting with plantation-grown, sustainable lumber, the wood is organically hardened and colored throughout with EverTech’s patented Everdex technology. A starch-based additive is forced into the wood using pressure and vacuum infusion; the wood is then thermally cured, permanently locking in the additive. The result is a natural wood that is denser, stronger, and harder than the original wood, and can be produced in virtually any color. Alowood carries a veritable laundry list of features and benefits, including: * Good looks and competitive prices; Alowood looks and acts like domestic and exotic hardwoods, and is more readily available * Consistent color and hardness, plus easy machineability, make Alowood very easy to work with * Like natural exotics, Alowood can be sanded and finished to achieve the desired appearance and character * Lower rates of unusable wood deliver better yields than traditional hardwoods, lowering total product costs * Harvested from a fast-growing, renewable resource, one of very few renewable building materials * Produced by a company that is committed to supporting environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world’s forests In addition, Alowood is the only hard wood to be GREENGUARD certified for its low impact on indoor air quality. Alowood is also available as a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified product because of its contributions to sustainability. With development under way to produce an exterior-grade product, Alowood’s interior uses are many, including flooring, cabinetry, hobby woodworking, and veneers. “This is a revolutionary product that is sure to change the way the world looks at wood,” said John Gibb, president of Chemco, whose firm formed the joint-venture EverTech brand with MeadWestvaco Corporation. Alowood already enjoys a worldwide presence: the product was field-tested in Japan for two years, in response to the need for a formaldehyde-free wood-hardening process. Today, Alowood’s introduction to the U.S. market is a groundbreaking event for the ever-increasing numbers of homeowners who demand environmentally responsible options from their builders and remodelers.

CORVALLIS, Ore., July 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Hundreds of volunteers are working with community donations alone to complete a green-built dream home for the Byers family of Corvallis, Ore. by Saturday, July 14. ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition chose the close-knit Byers family because of their positive and proactive approach to solve what many would label insurmountable problems, as well as Boey's activism towards childhood cancer treatment. As of today, July 11, the walls are up, the roof on; siding and exterior painting is completed. During day three of the "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" Oregon premiere, over 100 workers have completed the dry wall of the home and are doing finishing touches on the interior. Still, there is much to see, excavation for the sprinkler system is now taking place, exterior masonry needs to be completed, not to mention landscaping and exterior lighting. Construction will continue tomorrow, July 12, but absolutely must be completed sometime on Friday, July 13. That is when the keys are turned over to the design team who move in furniture and complete all interior details, even hanging the Byers family clothing back in their closets. The design team will work continuously so that the home can be revealed to the family on Saturday, July 14. Streets will be closed to all traffic at 11 a.m. on July 14. There will be no shuttles running. All spectators are welcome but traffic will be rerouted and individuals will be asked to walk into the home site. The reveal of the exterior of the home is expected sometime between 1 and 3 p.m. that day.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kaplan University, one of South Florida’s largest employers, today celebrated the opening of a new nearly 100,000 square-foot energy-efficient facility, which is equipped with the latest in hurricane protection technology and a variety of amenities for its growing employee ranks. “We’ve got a lot to celebrate today. Kaplan University has come a long way in a very short time,” said Andrew S. Rosen, CEO and President of Kaplan University and CEO of Kaplan Higher Education, during the ribbon-cutting event. “In 1999, our business base was in New York with a small presence in South Florida. As we grew, we wanted a community that could accommodate the kind of growth we saw ahead, and we found that support in Broward County.” The new building mirrors the existing four-story Kaplan University building at 6301 Kaplan University Avenue, which opened with great fanfare in January 2005. However, the new space includes several environmentally-friendly features unique to South Florida corporate facilities, including an energy-recovery unit, which uses the energy from cooled air being pumped out of the building to cool fresh air being filtered into it; daylight harvesting technology, which uses sensors along perimeter windows to automatically turn lights on or off based on the amount of natural light streaming into the building; and rooftop solar panels, which will be installed shortly to heat the building’s hot water. Additionally, the building has upgraded windows to sustain a Category 4 hurricane, an upgraded roof structure to withstand 170 mph winds, a 10,000-gallon fuel tank (in addition to an existing 5,000-gallon tank) to operate building generators for more than one week and a newly-drilled private well to keep the air conditioning system working in case of a power outage. The new building also has a three-foot concrete barrier built into its foundation to protect it from flooding. A new three-story parking facility also on site provides additional parking for employees and visitors. “Kaplan University is one of our dream companies,” said Bob Swindell, Senior Vice President of Business Development for The Broward Alliance, which promotes economic development in Broward County. “It expresses innovation and offers high-skilled and high-wage jobs. Kaplan is a spectacular example of the kinds of companies we want to bring to South Florida.” Along with Swindell, the ribbon cutting was attended by Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jim Naugle; Fort Lauderdale Commissioner Christine Teel; Michael Alter, President of The Alter Group, which owns the building; and dozens of other local and state officials, and Kaplan executives. More than 500 admissions and academic advisors, financial aid representatives and other student support staff have moved into the building, which has the capacity for approximately 800 people. Employees of both buildings on the Kaplan University campus have access to a new cafeteria, an outdoor patio and break rooms equipped with large-screen TVs and Internet cafés, among other amenities. The additional space provided by the new building also makes room for a new fitness center soon to be constructed in the original building. The Kaplan campus serves as the University’s largest support center in the country, currently housing 1,100 employees with room for about 1,600. When Kaplan opened its original building off of West Cypress Creek Road, the University had less than 1,000 employees in South Florida. Today, it has almost 1,400 in Broward and Palm Beach counties. The University also has support centers in Chicago and Phoenix. The buildings are owned and operated by The Alter Group and the lease broker is Cushman & Wakefield. Wolfberg Alvarez served as the interior architectural firm and Brasfield & Gorrie managed the construction. Kaplan University, based in Davenport, IA, offers master’s, bachelor’s and associate’s degrees in more than 75 programs and is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA). The University currently serves more than 27,000 online and on-ground students.

OAKTON, Va., July 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Lerner Enterprises, Washington D.C.'s largest private real estate developer, announces the start of construction for The Falls at Flint Hill, a 246-unit luxury apartment community in the Oakton area of Fairfax, Virginia. The Falls at Flint Hill is located minutes from Route 123 (Chain Bridge Road) and I-66 and is an easy drive to the Vienna Metro, Tysons Corner and Fair Oaks. The Falls at Flint Hill, located at 10520 Rosehaven Street, in Oakton, Virginia, is set amid the lush, manicured grounds of Flint Hill. The community is designed to provide a garden sanctuary, with walking paths winding through peaceful tree groves. Inside, the spacious residences feature the finest of finishes and appointments including granite, wood floors, fabulous baths, showcase kitchens and garage parking. The Falls at Flint Hill creates a unique community environment that features an array of resort-style amenities that include a community clubhouse with a veranda overlooking the gardens and pool, a fitness and yoga studio, an outdoor pool and spa, a billiard room, private theater screening room and an expansive sun deck. "We are extremely excited to introduce the next luxurious Lerner apartment community in Northern Virginia -- The Falls at Flint Hill," said Mark D. Lerner, a Principal of Lerner Enterprises. "Our organization has enjoyed tremendous success at Parc Dulles, a 393-unit Class 'A+' project in Dulles Town Center in Loudoun County, Virginia because it is unlike anything in the area. This project will also be unique to Oakton. We assembled award-winning architects, landscape designers and interior designers to create a community that will cater to those that demand the highest luxury in one of Northern Virginia's best locations," he added. Occupancy will begin in the fall of 2008 with completion of the project is scheduled in early 2009. The Leasing Center is anticipated to begin taking reservations in August, 2008. For more information on the property please visit: TheFallsAtFlintHill.com.

PARMA, Ohio, July 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- President George W. Bush today viewed a demonstration of a fuel cell powered lift truck while touring the GrafTech International Ltd. (NYSE:GTI) facility in Parma, Ohio. GrafTech manufactures graphite material for the proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell power unit made by Cellex Power Products Inc., a subsidiary of Plug Power Inc. (NASDAQ:PLUG) . The Cellex fuel cell system provides clean, reliable power for the electric lift truck made by Crown Equipment Corporation. Representatives from each company participated in today's tour and lift truck demonstration. GrafTech Chief Executive Officer Craig Shular commented, "It is an honor for GrafTech to host President Bush. Our team's collaboration with Cellex and Crown has been crucial in gaining support for the early adaptation of what we believe represents a significant growth opportunity in fuel cell power generation." Fuel cells offer an attractive value proposition within the $1.5 B motive power market to operators of large warehouses, distribution centers and manufacturing facilities. With fleets that include hundreds of lift trucks, these operations can benefit from centralized maintenance and fueling infrastructures. The Cellex Power system delivers value to the customer via increased productivity and reduced fueling time and cost, as well as the elimination of environmental and safety issues associated with traditional lead acid batteries. Adoption in the lift truck market is expected to pave the way for development of other markets on the path toward a hydrogen economy and increased energy independence. The fuel cell power system from Cellex Power was used to power a Crown model PE End-Controlled Rider Pallet Truck. The Cellex fuel cell contains a fuel cell stack supplied by Ballard Power Systems of Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada, which incorporates GrafTech's GRAFCELL(R) material as a primary component. "As a technology leader in the lift truck industry, Crown is actively participating in and supporting the development of alternative fuels that provide power savings for our customers," says Crown President Jim Dicke, III. "Crown has been working closely with Cellex for many years to find the right balance of fuel cells, amount of fuel, weight requirements and other factors to give lift truck customers the performance they expect." "President Bush's visit marked an excellent opportunity to showcase how fuel cells can be used as an environmentally friendly alternative to batteries for material handling needs in warehouses and distribution centers," said Chris Reid, Cellex Power's President. "Supply chain partners such as GrafTech and Crown are vital in building a strong foundation for the widespread application of fuel cell systems." Plug Power, a leader in providing clean, reliable on-site energy products, recently acquired Cellex Power and General Hydrogen Corporation as part of a strategic initiative to develop and commercialize fuel cell power units to provide motive power for electric lift trucks and other mobile industrial equipment. With these two acquisitions, Plug Power has positioned itself to engage both telecommunications and material handling as attractive near-term markets and central components of the Company's revenue growth strategy.

WASHINGTON, July 9 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As Congress begins to debate legislation that will guide our nation's energy policy for future generations, a broad bi-partisan coalition from both chambers of Congress will join together this week to celebrate the first "green" building on Capitol Hill. Members of Congress will make remarks on measures to cut U.S. energy consumption during a time of unprecedented urgency around the globe to curb the harmful effects of climate change, which most recently culminated in international Live Earth concert simulcasts calling for leadership action to effect real change. The newly-renovated, "green" headquarters of the Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL) has cut the group's energy consumption by 48 percent. A model for energy conservation, the building is expected to receive a silver LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council prior to the celebration. "Buildings account for nearly 50 percent of U.S. energy consumption and more than 40 percent of CO2 emissions in the United States," explains FCNL Executive Secretary Joe Volk. "As the House begins debate on energy legislation to mitigate the harmful impact of climate change, FCNL seeks bi-partisan support for promoting 'green' buildings to drastically reduce U.S. energy consumption." Members of Congress, municipal officials, the American Institute of Architects, and other groups have explored opportunities to replicate the FCNL building's energy conservation design. Singular elements include a geothermal heating and cooling system, a vegetated roof, eco-friendly office furniture, natural lighting enhancements, bamboo floors, and user-controlled environmental features. For additional information and a virtual tour of the building, please visit http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.fcnl.org/building.

DUBLIN, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets has announced the addition of “Principles of Modern Digital Design” to their offering. A major objective of this book is to fill the gap between traditional logic design principles and logic design/optimization techniques used in practice. Over the last two decades several techniques for computer-aided design and optimization of logic circuits have been developed. However, underlying theories of these techniques are inadequately covered or not covered at all in undergraduate text books. This book covers not only the "classical" material found in current text books but also selected materials that modern logic designers need to be familiar with. Topics Covered: -Number Systems and Binary Codes -Fundamental Concepts of Digital Logic -Combinational Logic Design -Fundamentals of Synchronous Sequential Circuits -VHDL in Digital Design -Combinational Logic Design using VHDL -Synchronous Sequential Circuit Design -Counter Design. -Sequential Circuit Design using VHDL -Asynchronous Sequential Circuits

OKLAHOMA CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Oklahoma Real Estate Commission’s new online service, located at https://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.ok.gov/orec/renewal, will benefit the over 23,600 real estate licensees in Oklahoma. As of July 1, these individuals can renew their real estate license online and view their continuing education hours through this new system. “We are really excited about providing these services for our customers because in an ‘already fast-paced world’ moving our license renewals and continuing education lookup programs online just makes sense,” said Anne Woody, the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission’s executive director. This year, the commission expects at least 6,000 real estate licensees to renew online, more than 25 percent of all licensees. This online system will save time by speeding up a paper-intensive process. A typical online renewal takes about five minutes to complete, and licensees can print verification of the licensure renewal at the end of the process. In conjunction with their license renewal, a licensee will be able to change their home address information. After the online renewal is completed, the Real Estate Commission will mail the licensee their license or pocket identification card. Another added feature is the continuing education lookup section where real estate licensees can keep track of the hours they have completed during the year. Real estate licensees must complete 21 continuing education hours before being able to renew their license on active status. The Web site and services are a product of a partnership between the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission and OK.gov, Oklahoma’s official Web site managed by the eGovernment firm, NIC (Nasdaq: EGOV).

Upping Estimated 60 Million Under-Insulated Attics to DOE Guidelines Could Save 103 Million Barrels of Oil Annually - Enough to Fill 51 Supertankers - and Help Reduce U.S. Dependence on Foreign Oil Adding Insulation is the Single-Most, Cost-effective Measure to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions TOLEDO, Ohio, July 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- With Independence Day upon us, Owens Corning (NYSE:OC) , makers of PINK insulation, and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are spreading the word about simple, energy-efficient home improvements that can help homeowners save money and strike oil in the attic -- 103 million barrels annually, to be precise. "Approximately 60 million homes in the U.S. are estimated to be under insulated***," said Gale Tedhams, director of sustainability for Owens Corning. "By heading straight to the attic and adding insulation, homeowners can make their homes greener, save money and conserve the energy equivalent of 103 million barrels of oil annually -- enough to fill 51 supertankers." In addition to helping homeowners save oil and reduce their cooling and heating costs, insulation plays another key role in saving the planet. According to a recent study by the McKinsey Global Institute, insulation is the single most cost-effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. "Many Americans assume that transportation and industry are the largest consumers of energy in the U.S., but it's actually buildings," said Wendy Burt from the U.S. Department of Energy. "The electricity consumed by one single home puts more carbon dioxide into the air than two average cars. The good news is there are simple energy-efficient upgrades we can make, such as adding insulation in the attic and caulking windows and doors that reduce our energy footprint and save us money." Owens Corning recommends that an attic have between 16 and 22 inches of insulation with a minimum total R-value of 49. To learn more about R-value and reducing home energy consumption go to the Owens Corning energy efficiency microsite at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.owenscorning.com/foryourhome/index.asp. Site visitors can also learn about Owens Corning's suite of fiberglass insulation products, which contain the highest level of certified recycled content in North America and is GREENGUARD Certified to meet the strictest standards for indoor air quality. "Energy efficiency is truly the 'first fuel,'" said Tedhams. "A barrel saved is two barrels earned, which means that efficient energy is the cheapest energy anyone can buy."

Agency combines expertise with passion to help companies go green Key Highlights: * Business division will focus on green marketing and public relations * The Home Depot, Travelers, CoreNet Global, National Multi Housing Council, DAP, Clean Control and Green Builder Media are clients in the green practice * Agency has adopted eco-friendly internal operations and office conduct BALTIMORE, July 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Imre Communications, an integrated brand communications firm, announced today the launch of a green practice. Focused exclusively on providing clients with a full array of marketing services, this new division is designed to help organizations establish and leverage environmental positioning and increase awareness of environmentally conscious products, practices and services. "Green products and sustainability practices aren't just fleeting trends, they are the future of how companies will do business," said Dave Imre, president of Imre Communications. "As an organization, we have fully embraced this environmental movement and see opportunity and demand to market green across all industries." To date, Imre is already supporting a number of clients seeking marketing counsel in the green space, including The Home Depot, Travelers, CoreNet Global, Clean Control, DAP and the National Multi Housing Council. Initiatives have ranged from corporate messaging and brand strategy development to packaging, promotional and PR campaigns. The latest client to join Imre's green practice is Green Builder Media, which provides information and services relating to green building and sustainability for the North American residential building market. Imre Communications will support the firm primarily in a public relations capacity. "Imre has an understanding and dedication to green business," said Ron Jones, founding partner and editorial director of Green Builder Media. "We value their expertise and creative thinking, and look forward to working together to launch and brand Green Builder Media's services."

HERNDON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Republic Property Trust (NYSE:RPB) announced today that Presidents Park has won “The Office Building of the Year” (“TOBY”) Award for the Suburban Office Park – Low Rise category and the “Grand TOBY” Award, outscoring entrants in all property type categories across the Washington Metropolitan Area. Completed between 1999 and 2001, Presidents Park is a three-building, Class A suburban office park located in Herndon, Virginia. Presidents Park is owned and managed by Republic Property Trust. Mark R. Keller, Chief Executive Officer of Republic Property Trust, said, “Our motto at Presidents Park is ‘a home for your business’. We are honored to receive this award from AOBA as we strive to deliver the best service to our tenants so that Presidents Park will truly become a home for their businesses.” Mr. Keller added, “I am personally proud of Republic Property Trust and our great team of first class property management. I would specifically like to recognize those members whose efforts keep Presidents Park operating in peak condition – Diane Ludden, Vice President of Asset Management, Melanie Friedman, Senior Property Manager, James Stash, Lead Engineer, and Rene Gaitan and Rick Jarrett, Building Engineers.” Presented by the Apartment and Office Building Association of Metropolitan Washington (“AOBA”), the TOBY Awards recognize “excellence in office building management, operational efficiency, maintenance, tenant retention and community impact.” AOBA thoroughly evaluates all facets of a building's operations during on site building inspections and portfolio judging, including tenant relations programs, community involvement, emergency evacuation and procedures manuals and continuing education for building personnel.