TORONTO, Feb. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC) and Earth Pledge (EP) are pleased to announce the receipt of a $300,000 grant from The Home Depot Foundation to support their combined efforts to advance the green roof industry in three key cities: Minneapolis, Atlanta, and Los Angeles. Green building such as green roofing creates tangible long and short term benefits for individuals, communities and the environment. The grant will provide funds to establish an operational infrastructure in each city in order to work with local stakeholders to identify opportunities to advance supportive public policies, and help execute research projects to quantify the benefits of green roofs. "Each of these cities has demonstrated leadership in embracing green roof infrastructure. This funding will allow Earth Pledge to establish new research projects in each city to increase our knowledge of the benefits of green roofs in areas such as stormwater management, urban heat island reduction, PV efficiency improvement and energy efficiency," said Leslie Hoffman, executive director of Earth Pledge. "Green roofs have the potential to offer a multitude of environmental, social and economic benefits, and our work in these cities will help to promote and establish policies to further their widespread implementation," said Steven Peck, president of Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, North America's green roof industry association. The Home Depot Foundation supports innovative nonprofit organizations such as GRHC and EP that are working to increase awareness and successfully demonstrate the connection between greening affordable housing, the urban forest and the overall health and economic success of our communities. "Green Roofs for Healthy Cities and Earth Pledge are leading the industry in green roof development and implementation," said Kelly Caffarelli, executive director or The Home Depot Foundation. "The grant from the Foundation will support their efforts within each of the three cities and contribute to a greater awareness of the benefits provided by green roof infrastructure." About The Home Depot Foundation The Home Depot Foundation was created in 2002 to further the community building goals of The Home Depot by providing additional resources to assist nonprofit organizations building affordable, efficient, and healthy homes throughout the United States and Canada. The Home Depot Foundation is dedicated to creating healthy, livable communities through the integration of affordable housing built responsibly and the preservation and restoration of community trees. Since its formation, The Home Depot Foundation has granted more than $25 million to nonprofit and government organizations throughout North America. For more information, visit www.homedepotfoundation.org. About Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC) GRHC is a membership-based green roof industry association working to develop the green roof industry across North America through a combination of providing membership services, working with governments and stakeholders to develop policies and programs that increase green roof implementation, and implementing a training and accreditation program for green roof professionals. The 5th Annual Greening Rooftops for Sustainable Communities Conference, Awards and Trade Show will be held in Minneapolis April 28-May 1, 2007 with the City of Minneapolis as the co-host. About Earth Pledge (EP) EP is a non-profit organization focused on implementing innovative technologies in the urban environment. Through education, technical research and consulting services, EP has led the green roof movement in New York City and is expanding these services and expertise to urban areas nationwide. Earth Pledge currently has two green roof research stations in Long Island City, New York and a recent installation in Santa Monica, CA. http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.earthpledge.org/ http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.greeninggotham.org/ http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.homedepotfoundation.org/

PITTSBURGH, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- When it comes to controlling the home thermostat, it's clearly a battle of the sexes. As temperatures dropped across most of the country in February, advertising agency MARC USA surveyed men and women in 800 households to find out who controls the inside temperature. The survey was conducted by OpinionZone(TM), the agency's online research panel. When asked about adjusting the thermostat at home, 62% said that one partner is in control. However, who controls the dial depends in some degree on whom you ask, explains Karen Leitze, SVP/ Director of Research and Strategic Planning. While 70% of women report that they control the home thermostat, 56% of men say they are in charge. "Control may be a matter of perception," Leitze adds. To find out what control actually means, respondents were asked what they would do if their partner/spouse made it too warm or too cold. While 89% of all respondents said they would take some action, more than one-third of men (35%) said they would suggest a change or ask permission of their spouse/partner before touching the dial. Temperature control is more clear-cut with women as 80% report they would just change the temperature without consulting their spouse/partner. It's no wonder some men think they're in control, but their spouses/partners think differently. How important is thermostat control? More than two-thirds of respondents (67%) say they and their spouse/partner differ on a comfortable home temperature. When spouses/partners have differing temperature preferences, who is more likely to raise the thermostat? Gender and age are both factors in who likes it hotter or cooler. With younger respondents (ages 21-44), four out of five men (79%) said they prefer it cooler than their spouses/partners. Younger women generally agreed with 60% saying they prefer it warmer than their spouses/partners. However, for all respondents age 45 and up, there was just about a 50/50 split on which partner/spouse wants it warmer or cooler. It seems that women become more tolerant of cooler temperatures as they age or maybe men feel the cold more as they get older. Perhaps both are true. Is it hot flashes for women? Are men less macho about the cold as they age? Do these feelings about heat and cold hold true when it's warm outside? MARC USA will find out when temperatures hit 90 degrees this summer.

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--More than 150 engineers, architects and graduate students joined forces over the weekend to conduct a block-by-block survey of San Francisco’s multi-unit residential wood-frame buildings, including the so-called “soft-story” structures located throughout the City that are potentially at risk during earthquakes. These volunteers, organized by the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute’s Northern California Chapter (EERI-NC) and the Structural Engineers Association of Northern California (SEAONC), collected data on structures in downtown neighborhoods including the Mission, Haight-Ashbury, and Telegraph Hill. Their data will be used by City authorities to assess further the City’s vulnerable housing stock leading to mitigation strategies that will ultimately reduce the seismic risks posed by these buildings. Joining the volunteers from EERI-NC and SEAONC were members of the San Francisco branches of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), and graduate students from UC Berkeley, San Francisco State and Stanford University. Soft-story buildings are those in which the first story is substantially more flexible than the stories above, typically due to multiple openings for garage doors and entrance ways. These structures perform poorly in earthquakes. In the 1994 Northridge Earthquake, 16 people were killed and 34,000 housing units were left uninhabitable by soft-story building collapses. Closer to home, in the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake, 2 lives were lost and 7,700 housing units were rendered uninhabitable due to soft-stories. In light of this, it is perhaps not surprising that a 2006 study by Kircher et al., prompted by the recent anniversary of the Great San Francisco Earthquake, concluded that soft-story wood buildings were among the most vulnerable building types when estimating losses due to a repeat of the 1906 event. Last year, Assembly Bill 304 was signed into law by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, allowing local governments to identify soft-story buildings as potentially hazardous to life and to establish local standards to retrofit them. Other California cities, such as Berkeley and Fremont, have surveyed their buildings but none has as large an inventory as San Francisco. The City’s Department of Building Inspection (SFDBI) staff has studied key neighborhoods, but it would take them months, or even years, to canvass the entire city. Saturday’s event provided a hands-on opportunity for seismic-safety advocates from varying backgrounds – structural and civil engineers, geologists, seismologists, architects, building officials and others – to work together to perform a great community service. What’s more, the exercise was an excellent learning experience for future post-disaster surveys. According to Ray Lui, Manager of SFDBI’s Structural Safety and Emergency Planning Division, “Collecting reliable data efficiently and systematically is far easier before the big quake than afterward. Plus it can give us a chance to head off seismic hazards before they occur.” He should know. Lui coordinated SEAONC’s efforts for the State’s Office of Emergency Service (OES) Safety Assessment Volunteers (SAV) in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. EERI is a national, nonprofit technical society dedicated to advancing the science and practice of earthquake engineering by improving understanding of the impact of earthquakes on the physical, social, economic, political and cultural environment. SEAONC, founded in 1930, is also a non-profit technical society, committed to advancing the art and science of structural engineering.

PORTLAND, Ore., Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- It's like the Oscars for Northwest homebuilders. The 1st annual Northwest ENERGY STAR(R) Homes Awards were held in Portland, Ore., on February 22, 2007, to recognize the achievements of Northwest ENERGY STAR builders and trade allies in Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Montana. "We commend all of our Northwest ENERGY STAR builders who have made such a strong commitment to building the best high-performance homes, providing an energy efficient home that's healthier and more comfortable for homebuyers," said Anne Brink, Market Manager, Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance. Award winners at the Annual Northwest ENERGY STAR Awards event include: -- Lighting Supplier: Alexander Lighting, Seattle, Washington -- Home Performance Specialist: OnPoint, LLC, Boise, Idaho -- HVAC/Performance Testing Contractor: Western Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., Boise, Idaho -- Northwest Home Builder: Holton Homes, Nampa, Ida. -- Washington Large Home Builder: New Tradition Homes, Vancouver, Wash. -- Washington Small Home Builder: Martha Rose Construction, Inc., Seattle, Wash. -- Oregon Large Home Builder: Palmer Homes, Bend, Ore. -- Oregon Small Home Builder: Summerfield Homes, West Linn, Ore. -- Idaho Small Home Builder: MarKar Design and Construction, Inc., Meridian, Ida. -- Idaho Large Home Builder: Holton Homes, Nampa, Ida. -- Montana Home Builder: McCall Development, Billings, Mont. In 2006, 2,354 Northwest ENERGY STAR Homes were built in Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Montana. There are currently 257 active Northwest ENERGY STAR builders. About 25 percent of all U.S. carbon emissions come from homes, so making homes more energy efficient is an important step in reducing the emissions that contribute to global warming. Homes earning the ENERGY STAR label are at least 15 percent more efficient than homes built to standard state energy codes. Homes are performance-tested by a certified technician to confirm that efficient equipment is installed correctly for peak performance. A final endorsement takes place when an independent inspector certifies that all requirements are met to earn the ENERGY STAR label. ENERGY STAR was introduced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1992 as a voluntary labeling program designed to identify and promote energy- efficient products in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. For information, call 1-888-373-2283 or log onto: www.energystar.gov. The Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) is a non-profit organization working to encourage the development and adoption of energy- efficient products and services. (www.nwalliance.org)

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The American Institute of Architects, California Council (AIACC) announces the 2007 recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award for Distinguished Service, Harold G. Sadler, FAIA, with the firm of Tucker Sadler Architects, Inc. in San Diego. This award is presented to an individual as recognition of outstanding contributions to the improvement of the built environment, as well as for their contribution to the architectural profession. Harold G. Sadler, FAIA, is a true leader. His passion for architecture began in 1952, where he attended Arizona State University School of Architecture. His thirst for knowledge led him to the University Of Southern California College Of Architecture where he earned his Master’s degree. Sadler began his career with the prestigious architecture firm of Jones and Emmons in Los Angeles. He moved to San Diego in 1957 where he joined Thomas Tucker and Ed Bennett, establishing one of the most respected architectural firms in San Diego. For 50 years the firm has influenced design innovation and urban planning, with a long term commitment to their clients and the community. Sadler’s exceptional talent and character, along with his willingness to assume risks and effort required of leadership roles has made him a hallmark of diligence and integrity as someone who creates a community where all voices can be heard. Some of his accomplishments include the San Diego Downtown Partnership, and the development of Petco Park. He represented CCDC as a member of the joint Powers Authority of the City and Port. The Awards jury stated, “Mr. Sadler is a modern architect, a credit to California and the architectural profession. We are pleased to honor him as a Lifetime achiever.” Sadler’s body of work qualifies him for the Lifetime Achievement honor as a designer, mentor and leader in the profession. Through his tireless efforts and devotion, San Diegans have benefited from his significant role in leading the city into the 21st Century. Sadler has earned the respect of civic leaders, local media, the business community and his peers. His devotion to downtown San Diego and his passion for architecture are unparalleled. The AIACC Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes outstanding achievement in the architectural profession and The AIACC congratulates Mr. Sadler for his impressive accomplishment. The AIACC represents the interests of more than 10,000 architects and allied professionals in California. Founded in 1944, AIACC’s mission supports architects in their endeavor to improve the quality of life for all Californians by creating more livable communities, sustainable designs and quality work environments. Today the AIACC is the largest component of the national AIA organization. For more information, visit www.aiacc.org.

SCOTCH PLAINS, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Interior plant displays are becoming ever more important to buildings and hotel interiors. The elaborate indoor plant displays found in today's offices and hospitality markets are more than just attractive, they are a critical element in today's fantasy environments. Their presence indicates luxury and helps guests to relax. Parker Interior Plantscape, a leader in buildings Plantscape maintenance, continues to meet the industry challenge as properties struggle to create these "worlds of wonder". Parker began what turned into the largest privately owned Interior Plantscape Company in the US. With 200 plus employees, over the past 28 years, Parker has never lost a buildings property contract they installed. Mr. Ron Wood, a research associate with the Environmental Quality Group at the University of Technology in Sydney, Australia, provides a comprehensive list of reasons why interior plants are key to cost effectively improving IEQ while contributing to sustainable, green building designs: They are less expensive to use than powerful air filter systems. They can easily be moved or relocated. They are environmentally friendly. They offer aesthetic stimulants to the people in a room. They do not cause acoustic problems. They do not interfere with ventilation systems that are already installed. With professional care, they provide high results at relatively low maintenance costs. They support good motivation by creating a balanced working environment. They can be used as attractive room dividers in open plan offices. They reduce tiring of the eyes by reflecting the yellow/green spectrum. Introducing plants requires no change to the structure of a building. They can discretely solve an environmental problem (absorb toxins) The possibility of a sudden breakdown is relatively low.

Hampshire, IL – INDUROSHINE from W. R. MEADOWS is a complete concrete floor polishing and grinding system that will turn any concrete floor into an architectural, high sheen, wear-resistant, durable, attractive concrete surface. The system combines LIQUI-HARD, a concrete densifier and hardener from W. R. MEADOWS, with diamond grinding and polishing equipment from VIC International. The two companies have a combined experience of over 120 years in protecting and preserving concrete floors. The INDUROSHINE system allows the client to select from three different levels of concrete floor sheen. INDUROSHINE will make the floor a durable, attractive surface, which requires little maintenance. With INDUROSHINE, there is no need for expensive coverings or coatings that require frequent maintenance. One application is all you need for the life of your concrete floor. The INDUROSHINE SYSTEM is recommended for use wherever a dense, wear resistant, architecturally pleasing low maintenance floor is desired. Ideal applications include floors in warehouses, schools, retail stores, civic centers, sports arenas, stadiums, hospitals, airports and museums. The INDUROSHINE system is supported by a network of approved applicators and quality customer service from W. R. MEADOWS, INC. and VIC International. For more information, call (847) 214-2100, e-mail wrmil@wrmeadows.com or visit www.wrmeadows.com.

SAN RAMON, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Lennar Homebuilding, one of the largest residential developers in the country, has announced that, beginning immediately, all new communities constructed in the greater San Francisco Bay market will be equipped with a roof integrated solar electric system from PowerLight, a subsidiary of SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq: SPWR), as a standard feature. Lennar Bay Area launched its solar push with the introduction of Milano, a 77 luxury home development in Danville, California. The solar-powered program puts Lennar in the forefront of forward-thinking builders who have their eye on the future and a concern for the environment. These solar-electric equipped homes can help consumers save on their monthly utility bills in addition to providing the buyer with a one-time $2,000 federal tax credit. In 2006, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed legislation (Senate Bill 1) aimed at establishing California as the nation’s leader in solar energy. By 2011, his Million Solar Roofs Plan will provide incentives to builders and homeowners who install solar power in new homes and convert to solar energy in existing homes. The bill, which provides tremendous support to Lennar’s existing solar energy initiatives, is just part of a broader effort to push green energy alternatives throughout the state. The solar electric system will become part of Lennar’s Everything Included package. Rather than offering costly upgrades, Lennar researches what customers want and value in a new home and includes those items as standard in their homes. Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation's leading builders of quality homes for all generations. The Company builds affordable, move-up and retirement homes in 20 states across the country. Lennar's Financial Services Division provides primarily mortgage financing, title insurance and closing services for both buyers of the Company's homes and others. Additional information about the Company may be obtained at www.lennar.com A tax professional should be consulted regarding any tax-related matters.

NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- EcoGreen Fire recently became one of 11 distributors in the U.S. to sell the highly sought-after EcoSmart fireplace. The fireplace is an Australian innovation that uses denatured ethanol as its core heating source. Ethanol is produced from the staples of the agricultural and forestry industries and is virtually maintenance-free. The combustion of ethanol results in a clean emission: heat, steam and carbon dioxide. The EcoSmart burner's technique of safely housing and burning a flammable liquid, offering an open flame in a controlled environment, makes it ideal for just about all contemporary environments, including apartments, houses, restaurants, bars and offices. It is the only U.L.-approved ventless fireplace in the United States. Just recently, the EcoGreen Fire company admitted to trying to introduce Brad Pitt to a "new flame." What they were offering to Mr. Pitt was one of their eco-friendly fireplaces as a housewarming present. "Now that he has a house in New Orleans," says Mike Paine, co-owner of EcoGreen Fire, "we thought it would be a nice gesture. We've followed his work with Global Green, helping to rebuild the New Orleans area, and we think it's great what he's doing in the community." The EcoGreen Fire company is certain that if Mr. Pitt will take them up on their housewarming offer that it will be a perfect match. The EcoSmart product is green-friendly, trendy, and popular and is sure to be the hottest thing going in 2007. View the entire product line and learn more about the EcoSmart fireplace at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.ecogreenfire.com/.

Revolutionary Fingertip Reading Biometric Application Delivers the Most Advanced Levels of Protection Available in Home Security Technology LAKE FOREST, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kwikset®, a leader in the residential security industry, moves to the forefront of home security technology with the introduction of SmartScan, the world’s first residential biometric keyless entry system. Building on the success of the Powerbolt®, a keyless entry system, Kwikset now takes access control to a new level with the launch of SmartScan. The revolutionary SmartScan completely eliminates the need for a key or key code, utilizing only a fingerprint scan. It takes home security into the future with advanced levels of protection previously available only in commercial and governmental applications. Kwikset’s SmartScan is a biometrically accessible deadbolt that can be applied to external and internal doors in residential applications. Biometrics is a method of authenticating the identity of a person based on physiological characteristics. The most well known method is fingerprint identification. The SmartScan battery-powered deadbolt is activated simply by swiping a valid fingerprint across its sub dermal sensor. Using RF electronic imaging, SmartScan reads live fingerprint patterns located beneath the sub dermal outer surface layer of the skin, making it unaffected by dry, dirty or worn fingertips. Programmable with 50+ user fingerprints, SmartScan also has a special timed “lock out feature” that allows homeowners three levels of access options. This feature allows Continuous Access (24/7) for family members, Limited Date Access for contractors, and Restricted Access based upon Time and Date for babysitters or housekeepers allowing a specific day and window of time (Fridays 9:00 – 9:15 AM). Programming and set up are allowed only by designated administrator(s) and are menu driven via a built-in keypad and Liquid Crystal Display (LCD). Each system includes a backup key as the product also functions as a standard deadbolt in case the batteries were not replaced. “Consumer acceptance of biometric technology is accelerating,” says Eric Lundquist, director of brand marketing for Kwikset. “It is currently available on portable hard drives and IBM ThinkPad computers, as well as in grocery store checkouts, gas stations and automobiles. Biometrics is an emerging technology that gives consumers an increased level of home protection and peace of mind.” Kwikset’s new SmartScan technology was developed in partnership with Sequiam Corporation (OTCBB:SQUM) of Orlando, Florida, a leading biometrics technology company that is the exclusive biometric provider to Black & Decker’s Hardware and Home Improvement Group. SmartScan is based on Kwikset’s proven Powerbolt mechanical platform. It can be easily installed on most standard doors and requires no hard wiring. The durable, low power consumption averages one year of operation on a single set of four standard AA batteries and is guaranteed to operate over a temperature range from -40 degrees Fahrenheit to +150 degrees Fahrenheit. Kwikset’s SmartScan is specifically designed as an effective, yet stylish alternative to the bulky, undistinguished industrial biometric security systems currently available. It delivers a sleek, attractive designer look and feel, with its biometric fingerprint reader stealthily integrated into the overall design. SmartScan is available in a variety of finishes, which carry a lifetime anti-tarnish warranty. SmartScan…it puts security and convenience right at your fingertips. For more than 60 years, Kwikset, manufacturer of America’s most trusted name in security, has provided beauty, security and peace of mind for millions of families. For additional information on Kwikset products, visit www.Kwikset.com, or call 1-800-327-LOCK. Black & Decker Hardware and Home Improvement (BDHHI) Group is a division of Black & Decker, the world’s largest producer of power tools, power tool accessories and security hardware. Today, the BDHHI Group includes some of the most recognizable hardware and home improvement brands in the world including Kwikset®, Weiser Lock®, Baldwin®, Price Pfister and Bach®. About Sequiam Sequiam Corporation develops, markets, and supports a portfolio of highly robust proprietary biometrically enabled consumer lifestyle and commercial products and OEM solutions. In addition, Sequiam has invested heavily in research and development to develop unique products and solutions for the biometric industry worldwide. For more information, please visit www.sequiam.com

BOCA RATON, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The record-setting back-to-back hurricane seasons of 2004 and 2005 created an unprecedented demand for automatic standby generator systems for homes in South Florida, and wait times of 10- to 12-months for permitting and installation became commonplace. However, following the quiet 2006 storm season and a variety of changes to update the installation requirements by many South Florida municipal building departments, the long waits for these popular and important new home appliances are a thing of the past. In addition to offering the fixed generator systems that are permanently installed at homes, Frank’s company is also now offering a mobile generator system that can be towed and connected at properties that are equipped with a transfer switch, which PPS also sells and installs. Frank believes this new option, which is ideal for extended families or owners of multiple properties, presents a compelling new alternative for many. Personalized Power Systems sells, installs and maintains automatic standby generator systems and mobile generator systems that power entire homes and small businesses in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. The turn-key automatic standby systems start at $12,500 including all of the necessary permitting and installation, and they run on natural gas or propane from a 500-gallon underground tank and engage automatically within moments of an outage. Depending on the model, they have a run-time of five to eight days using the standard 500-gallon propane tank, which is refilled and delivered by local suppliers, or indefinitely for those connected to a natural gas line. The mobile generator systems with two transfer switches start at $15,000, including all of the necessary permitting and installation of the transfer switches at separate locations. They operate on diesel fuel, which is typically available after hurricanes, are equipped with 50- to 150-gallon fuel tanks and can be towed by most standard SUV and pickup truck vehicles. Additional information on PPS and its automatic standby generators for residences and small businesses is available at www.personalizedpowersystems.com or by calling (561) 391-8190, or toll-free at 1-866-221-8100.

SOLANA BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Open Energy Corporation (OTC BB: OEGY), a renewable energy company focused on the development and commercialization of solar energy solutions, has been selected by McCullough-Ames Development, Inc. as the sole provider of solar roofing tiles being used as a standard feature for a 29-home development located in San Diego, California. Open Energy’s SolarSave® Roofing Tiles are being installed as a standard feature on all residences at Gables Crossing, a housing development located in the Del Sur community of Black Mountain Ranch in San Diego. Each home is designed to have a 1 kW system that can be easily expanded to allow each home to be “energy-customized” to meet the needs of its residents. “Being selected by McCullough-Ames as the sole provider of solar tiles for this development is very rewarding for Open Energy. It validates the superior features,” commented David Saltman, President and CEO of Open Energy Corporation. “Southern California represents strong opportunity for Open Energy as we continue to focus our efforts on installing our solar products on roofs across the region. We look forward to the time when solar is ubiquitous in residential construction.” Rick Valles Key of Home Energy Systems, Inc., the development’s solar integrator, added: “We are pleased to work with McCullough-Ames and Open Energy to go above and beyond with a commitment to create a neighborhood where 100% of the homes are actively preserving and protecting the environment by creating solar energy. Open Energy’s SolarSave® Roofing Tiles provided us with an excellent match for this development as it is able to be upgraded by the homeowner in order to suit that family’s energy needs.” Five of the 29 homes are currently under construction, with additional residences being rolled out over the coming months. About Open Energy Open Energy Corporation (OTC BB: OEGY) focuses on the development and commercialization of renewable energy products and technologies for a wide range of applications including electrical and thermal power production and water desalination. The Company pursues these objectives through technology, innovation, acquisitions, strategic partnerships and other business strategies. The company’s mission is to enhance life by harnessing the power of the sun.

PARIS, February 19/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Saint-Gobain Isover is to build a new, 70,000-ton capacity glass wool plant in Chemille, (Maine-et-Loire) France. The plant is due to begin production at the end of 2008, will create approximately 150 jobs. This investment, which stands at around EUR100 million, is designed to address demand in fast-growing insulation markets in Western Europe and particularly in France. New regulatory requirements regarding the thermal performance of new and existing buildings should result in a 40% reduction of energy consumption in new buildings by 2020, and a fourfold reduction of energy consumption in existing buildings by 2050. The thermal insulation of buildings leads to substantial savings and is one of the most effective ways of combating greenhouse gas emissions. Cutting edge techniques incorporating the latest environmentally-compliant practices will be used in the design and construction of this plant, which will adhere to HQE(R) (High Environmental Quality) guidelines. This strategic project will enable Saint-Gobain Isover to meet the strong demand for insulation products on a buoyant construction market, while at the same time extending its product range and maintaining its worldwide leadership. Saint-Gobain Isover forms part of Saint-Gobain's Construction Products sector. With 45,000 employees worldwide and 250 consolidated companies, the Construction Products sector is a leader in all its businesses: insulation (Isover), gypsum (Placo, Gyproc, Rigips, ProRoc), outdoor living products (CertainTeed), industrial mortars (Weber) and pipe (Pam). In 2006, it delivered consolidated sales of EUR10.9 billion, representing 26% of the Saint-Gobain Group's overall sales.

SUGAR LAND, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Industrial Info Resources (Sugar Land, Texas) will host KE-Burgmann USA Incorporated (Hebron, Ohio) as its special guest on Industrialinfo.com Radio Monday, February 19, 2007, as part of Industry Today, a weekly internet radio broadcast featuring technology, industry trends and company executives. KE Burgmann produces premium quality materials and parts for the global industrial community as part of the KE-Burgmann group of companies. Based on many years of professional experience from working with PTFE, silicone, elastomers and glass fabrics, KE-Burgmann customizes strong and chemically resistant materials to suit the individual need of every industrial application satisfying even the harshest applications. Mechanical seals and packings from KE-Burgmann provide state-of-the-art technology when it comes to sealing of shafts, flanges, or other connections in industrial pumps, compressors, mixers, agitators, ventilators, and many other applications. KE-Burgmann’s expansion joint division manufactures and supplies a full range of fabric, metal, rubber, fluoroelastomer and fluoropolymer expansion joints for installation in air and flue gas duct systems. These seals can be installed as flexible connections in duct and pipe systems to prevent damage caused by variations in temperature, pressure or mechanical stress due to movement or vibration. The seals division supplies mechanical seals, seal supply system, static seals, automotive seals, magnetic couplings, stuffing box packings, and rotary kiln sealing systems for industrial pumps, compressors, mixers and more. The materials division manufactures and supplies a wide range of composite materials coated and laminated with PTFE, FKM, and other elastomers for industrial applications such as insulating materials and anti-corrosion linings. Join Mike Green, General Manager of KE-Burgmann, along with Crazy Al of Industry Today for a comprehensive look at each of these products. Click Here! Monday, February 19, 2007, at 10:30 a.m. (EST), to hear the LIVE broadcast. If you miss the show, Click Here to hear this or any of the over 190 previous Industry Today shows covering topics important to industry spending, including trends, outlooks, and focus segments on specific industries. Industrial Info Resources (IIR) provides marketing communication services ranging from industrial database solutions to market forecasting, custom analytics, and specialty promotions that support high-level image campaigns. For more information send inquiries to industrialmanufacturing@industrialinfo.com or visit us online at www.industrialinfo.com.

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Making the decision to buy, install, or refinish a hardwood floor in your home or business can be stressful. You want to be sure that the product or service you are choosing is right for you; you want to be sure that the money you are spending will be a good investment for years to come, and you want to be sure that the work you contract for is done right. But how can you be sure that the contractor, salesperson, or inspector you are dealing with is as knowledgeable as he or she claims to be? The answer really is quite simple: hire a certified wood flooring professional. The NWFA Certified Professionals offers certification programs for wood flooring professionals in installation, sand and finish, sales, and inspections. Certification with NWFACP involves a written test that determines knowledge and expertise in core areas based on the certification being sought. Successful completion of a written exam is required to become a certified Sales Counselor. For installation, and sand and finish, candidates must pass both a written exam and a hands-on test that determines wood flooring skills competency. To become an NWFACP certified wood flooring inspector, candidates must pass both a written exam, which includes a report writing section, and submit up to seven inspection reports to the NWFACP Review Panel, which must approve at least five reports. Hiring a certified wood flooring professional can give you the peace of mind you need to make good choices about your wood flooring needs. How can you find a certified wood flooring professional in your area? Simply visit the NWFACP web site at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.nwfacp.org/ and select the "Find a Certified Professional" menu option. You can conduct your search by city, state, zip code, area code, mileage, or company name. The National Wood Flooring Association is a not-for-profit trade organization of more than 4,000 wood flooring professionals working worldwide to educate consumers, architects, designers, and builders in the uses and benefits of wood flooring. The NWFA can be contacted at 111 Chesterfield Industrial Blvd., Chesterfield, MO 63005, or at 800-422-4556 (USA), 800-848- 8824 (Canada), or 636-519-9663 (international).

First-Ever Gold Certification for Exterior Building Products Moon Township, Pa., February 15, 2007—CENTRIA announces it has earned its third Cradle to Cradle certification, this time for its EcoScreen Perforated Screenwall panels. This represents the first-ever Gold certification for exterior building products and comes on the heels of Cradle to Cradle certifications for two of CENTRIA’s other exterior building products, Formawall Dimension Series and Versawall insulated metal composite panels. EcoScreen can help blend industrial and other functional applications with the surrounding communities. CENTRIA offers these exterior perforated screenwall panels using Econolap 3/4", Style-Rib, and BR5-36, MR3-36 and Super-Rib Profiles. This unique fabrication provides a 10% to 40% open area for the effect of a translucent screen to control light, air movement and/or visually mask areas behind the screens. The Cradle to Cradle certification process, administered by McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry (MBDC), evaluates a material or product’s ingredients—and the complete formulation for human and environmental health impacts throughout its lifecycle—as well as its potential for being truly recycled or safely composted. “The certification process was an important step for CENTRIA,” explains Tom Zombek, product manager of profiled products for CENTRIA Architectural Systems. “We believe in continuous product improvement. The Cradle to Cradle audit helped us to identify some materials and manufacturing processes that could be improved and changes were made to ensure that we are following the best possible green practices.” Achieving product certification requires success in multiple areas: use of environmentally safe and healthy materials; product design for material reutilization, such as recycling or composting; use of renewable energy and energy efficiency; efficient use of water and maximum water quality associated with production; and company strategies for social responsibility. “EcoScreen is made with 100% renewable energy, cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions,” explains Richard Guinn, vice president of business development for CENTRIA. “Our energy-saving efforts purposefully comply and fit well with the manufacturing and design requirements being championed by the American Institution of Architects.” Instead of designing a cradle-to-grave product, only to be dumped in landfills at the end of its 'life,' the MBDC certification program focuses on products for cradle-to-cradle cycles, whose materials are perpetually circulated in closed loops. Maintaining materials in closed loops maximizes material value without damaging ecosystems. “As an industry leader, we were proud to be an early adopter of Cradle to Cradle certification and we’re pleased to see others are joining the fold,” said Zombek. “Cradle to Cradle is not a static evaluation. We are required to undergo an annual review of our protocols and practices and re-certify our products every year. This is a very difficult process, but we believe it to be the best evaluation of overall sustainability.” In fact, CENTRIA is in the process of certifying its other products as part of its ongoing sustainability initiatives. Based in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh, CENTRIA is an international company and the nation’s premier supplier of architectural metal wall and roofing systems used in commercial/industrial products. Since 1906, CENTRIA professionals have provided quality products and services for architectural and construction firms worldwide. For more information about CENTRIA call 412-299-8218 or visit www.centria.com

Shigeru Ban's Sustainable Vision for Restored Village of Kirinda Makes the Final Three at MIPIM Real Estate Summit Awards in March BOSTON, Feb. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Colliers International, the global real estate services firm, has been recognized for its ground-breaking project of rebuilding Kirinda village in Sri Lanka after the tsunami of December, 2004. The company has been selected by an international jury as one of three finalists in the residential category of the 17th annual MIPIM awards. MIPIM is the world's premier real estate summit, convening the most influential decision makers in the market, and the awards ceremony will take place March 13th-16th in Cannes. The renowned Japanese architect Shigeru Ban donated his time to produce a sustainable vision for the village that embraces local traditions and materials and conforms to the highest environmental standards. Working with the Sri Lankan government and consulting closely with the local population, the Colliers Kirinda Trust has sought to accelerate community regeneration and social healing while preserving the religious and cultural fabric of the village. Kirinda village is also the first village or town in Asia to have 100% solar powered street lamps throughout the neighborhoods of Kirinda where Colliers rebuilt the center of the village. Forty-five street lamps have already been installed in February 2007, and 20 more are on the way. The President of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapakse, has lauded the impact of the project. "I would like to express, on behalf of the people of Sri Lanka, heartfelt thanks for the contributions Colliers, Shigeru Ban and partners have made to rebuild the community in Kirinda," he remarked. "They took an extremely professional approach, developed the highest standard of designs, used the most appropriate local materials and consulted our experts and the local population to ensure that the end product matched displaced families' needs. This project has become the benchmark for ongoing Tsunami reconstruction work in Sri Lanka -- and Colliers has quite rightly received international recognition and acclaim for its work here." The Colliers Kirinda Trust has raised almost $1 million so far, primarily from within Colliers International, to finance the reconstruction. All fifty houses have been finished. The Trust plans to work in the village for a further three years on sustainability schemes. Web site: http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.colliers.com/ http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.collierskirinda.com/ http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.shigerubanarchitects.com/ http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.colliersusafoundation.org/

STOCKHOLM, Sweden--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Skanska (STO:SKAB) has secured a contract to construct a multistory parking garage, which will be located under water in central Oslo. The contract amount is about NOK 800 M, approximately SEK 880 M, which is included in the order bookings for the first quarter of 2007. The customer is Tjuvholmen Utvikling AS, a development company that is jointly owned by the Selvaag and Aspelin Ramm Groups. The parking garage being built to accommodate up to 650 parking spaces will also form part of the foundation of the new housing area. Concrete casting of the garage will be implemented in a dry dock and then be shipped and lowered into place at Tjuvholmen in central Oslo. The process is principally the same used in the construction of off-shore platforms, for which Skanska has extensive experience. The new land area that will be created at Tjuvholmen will be 21,000 square meters, part of which will be the roof of the multistory garage. A foundation for the remaining portion of the land will be laid on a concrete deck on piles. The entire area will subsequently be developed with housing but this is not included in Skanska’s contract. Tjuvholmen is part of City of Oslo’s initiative to create housing in close proximity to the Olso fjord. The project will commence immediately and will be completed by December 2009. Skanska Norway is active in building construction and civil engineering projects. In 2005 the unit reported sales amounting to about SEK 10.5 billion, with some 4,200 employees. Skanska is also active in Norway in the development of residential projects and in PPP projects. This and previous releases can also be found at www.skanska.com Skanska is one of the world’s leading construction groups with expertise in construction, development of commercial and residential projects and public-private partnerships. The Group currently has 54,000 employees in selected home markets in Europe, in the US and Latin America. Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden and listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange, Skanska's sales in 2005 totaled USD 17 billion.

CINCINNATI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--EarthBlock Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB:EBLC) an international leader in eco-friendly, resource efficient construction using high quality compressed earth blocks, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a binding letter of intent to acquire Hybrid Earth Technology Ltd of the UK. The acquisition will provide specific and exclusive rights and ownership for Hybrid’s proprietary technologies and intellectual property, including products, machinery, plant and building systems, designs and engineering, with the exception of the UK at present. EarthBlock Technologies has a long history of working with Hybrid and its principals on past projects in Texas and Central America. “Ed Ellis and Hybrid have worked closely with us in the past. It makes perfect sense for us to leverage our relative expertise in earth construction.” Said Greg Pitner, EarthBlock’s CEO. “This is a very significant addition to our capabilities. The ability to provide a complete solution; machinery, design, construction services, along with manufacturing, sales and marketing, training, licensing, service and maintenance under one roof, uniquely positions us to expand our environmental ethos for creating minimal impact policies worldwide by offering green construction solution globally.” Ed Ellis, MCIOB; MSc Arch AEES SD & ACT - is a Chartered Environmentalist and MD of Hybrid Earth Technology Ltd. About EarthBlock Technologies, Inc. EarthBlock Technologies, Inc. engages in the application of technologically advanced earthen construction products for the large-scale production of affordable, high quality, energy efficient homes and commercial buildings. For additional information visit www.eblk.com Special Note: Management believes certain statements in this press release may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Those statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of EarthBlock Technologies, Inc. and members of its management as well as the assumptions on which such statements are based. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results.

Pilot Partnership Provides Commercial and Residential Customers Affordable Solar Financing Nationwide AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Verde Energy, the first and only company to provide customers a trusted source for competitive quotes on solar power, solar thermal, wind power and other renewable energy projects, announced today that the company is providing solar power financing options to residential and commercial customers nationwide through a partnership with Wells Fargo. Verde Energy provides free project consultation from knowledgeable Verde staff and competitive project quotes from prescreened renewable energy professionals throughout the country. "We extended the choices we provide to our customers by offering financing options for solar power projects nationwide,” said Rob Powell, chief executive for Verde Energy. “Many of our customers indicate an interest in financing options for their project, yet have a difficult time finding lenders who are familiar with renewable energy systems. We’ve partnered with Wells Fargo because they have a real interest in renewable energy and, most importantly, are providing competitive rates for these projects.” “Wells Fargo has a unique approach which allows us, because of flat rate pricing, to deliver loans at very competitive rates,” said Clint Pyatt, Wells Fargo sales manager. “We are eager to work with Verde Energy’s customers to deliver financing solutions that take advantage of our low-cost approach and the growing market for renewable energy systems.” Nationwide, customers use Verde Energy as a single source to obtain competitive project quotes from trusted renewable energy professionals. A wide range of customers use the service, including commercial businesses, manufacturing facilities, residential and commercial developers, architects, general contractors, and homeowners in virtually every state. Customers provide their project information using an intuitive, online survey. Verde staff conducts a free project consultation with each customer, and delivers their request to prescreened, experienced renewable energy contractors in the area who provide bids on the project. About Verde Energy Verde Energy helps commercial and residential customers obtain competitive project bids and expert installation for solar power, solar thermal, wind power and other renewable energy systems from trusted local professionals nationwide. Visit us at www.verdeenergy.com. About Wells Fargo Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) is a diversified financial services company providing banking, insurance, investments, mortgage and consumer finance for more than 23 million customers through 6,100 stores, the internet and other distribution channels across North America and elsewhere internationally.

New Features and Functionality Support Existing 2D Workflows SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- At its World Press Day event today, Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK) unveiled updates to its comprehensive portfolio of discipline-specific software solutions based on the AutoCAD software platform for architecture, engineering and construction (AEC). Autodesk also announced that several product names have been modified to reflect their sharing the AutoCAD 2008 platform for design and documentation productivity. AutoCAD Architecture 2008 (formerly Autodesk Architectural Desktop), AutoCAD MEP (formerly Autodesk Building Systems) and AutoCAD Civil 3D software applications incorporate new features and functionality to help architects, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) and civil engineers improve productivity and increase efficiency. Enhancements in these AutoCAD-based applications also pave the way for architects, designers and engineers to streamline fundamental tasks and redefine traditional design process. "From our vantage point as a driving force in design software, we can see tremendous opportunity for our customers to continue to improve design and documentation productivity for even the basic tasks of engineering and building design," said Jay Bhatt, vice president, Autodesk AEC Solutions. "The latest updates to our portfolio of 2D and 3D tools are improving established ways of working, and make meaningful enhancements to the functions that are integral to our customers' work." Updates Raise the Standard for Core 2D and Modeling-based Activities The latest application updates are built on the AutoCAD 2008 platform, also announced today (see "Autodesk Enhances Industry-leading AutoCAD Software," Feb. 13, 2007). Autodesk now offers customers state-of-the-art 2D and 3D model-based software solutions that bring innovations in conceptual design, dynamic modeling and usability to design workflow and core tasks. These features and functions boost the speed and coordination of drafting and modeling work. AutoCAD Architecture 2008 AutoCAD Architecture provides the best AutoCAD-based design and documentation productivity for architects. AutoCAD Architecture 2008 makes it easier for users familiar with AutoCAD to automate tedious drafting tasks so design documentation can be completed more easily and more quickly.

As Vacation Homes Become More Mainstream, E-LOAN Extends Great Rate and Superior Customer Experience beyond Primary Residence Financing PLEASANTON, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--E-LOAN®, an online consumer direct lender, today announced that consumers can enjoy the same great E-LOAN interest rate on their second home as they would currently be eligible for on their primary residence mortgage. Forty percent of home purchases in 2005 were by consumers who purchased investment and vacation homes1. Now, borrowers financing a vacation home can log onto www.eloan.com to work with an E-LOAN vacation home loan specialist to find out how they can avoid paying a rate premium to finance their second home. “While many lenders follow the old paradigm of assigning greater risk and a higher rate of financing for a secondary residence, E-LOAN realizes that second homes and vacation homes have become much more commonplace across America and no longer represent increased risk,” said Mark Lefanowicz, president of E-LOAN. “We believe that as consumers look to increase their investment in real estate, they should be able to enjoy the same great rate for their vacation home as they do for their primary residence.” According to a study by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), consumers are increasingly enjoying a lifestyle once considered exclusive to the ranks of more wealthy Americans. In their 2006 study, NAR reported that the purchase of vacation homes increased 16% from 2005 to 2006 and forecasted that the sales of vacation homes will remain strong. Baby boomers, who are currently enjoying their peak earnings potential and have a proven track record in leveraging real estate to boost their investment portfolio, tend to be the primary demographic driving the trend, according to the report. “By extending our primary residence financing rate to include vacation homes, we are allowing our customers to enjoy the rate they want with the E-LOAN brand that they have come to know and trust for a superior customer experience,” added Mr. Lefanowicz. About E-LOAN® E-LOAN is an online consumer direct lender dedicated to providing consumers with a simple, easy and open way to obtain mortgage, auto loans, home equity loans, and online savings and certificate of deposit accounts. Since its launch in 1997, E-LOAN has drawn upon its pro consumer values to improve the lending and online savings experience in revolutionary ways. By eliminating the traditional incentive structure to charge consumers higher rates, giving consumers free access to credit scores and eliminating lender fees, E-LOAN is providing a uniquely open, fair and honest process. Protecting consumers' financial privacy is also a paramount concern, leading E-LOAN to implement industry leading privacy practices and advocate strong consumer financial privacy protection laws. Consumers have recognized E-LOAN for its trustworthiness and respect for customers. Three independent studies conducted by TRUSTe and The Ponemon Institute ranked E-LOAN as one of the Top 20 Most Trusted Companies for Privacy in America. In another independent study conducted by The Customer Respect Group, E-LOAN received the overall highest rating in the Online Customer Respect Study of North America's largest financial services firms. Since it started its operations, E-LOAN has originated and sold over $32 billion in mortgage and consumer loans. E-LOAN is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Banco Popular North America, a New York State-chartered bank, which in turn is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Popular, Inc., a full service financial services provider with operations in Puerto Rico, the United States, the Caribbean and Latin America. To find out more about E-LOAN and its products and services, logon to http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.eloan.com or call 1-888-533-5333.

DUBLIN, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c50190) has announced the addition of “Landscaping Contractors - Portfolio Analysis” to their offering. The Portfolio Analysis - Landscaping Contractors is a comprehensive evaluation of the UK market. The revised and updated 2007 edition analyses the financial performance of the companies important to the success of your business. Using the most up to date information available, the analysis is ideal both as a tool to benchmark your own company’s results and to study the market in more depth. Aimed at the busy manager, the Portfolio Analysis is both quick and easy to use thanks to the unique visual layout. The Analysis lays bare the performance of each company highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Do you know which companies are best to do business with? Do you know which companies are selling at a loss and whose profit margins are plummeting? Find out the answers to all these questions and more with the newly published Portfolio Analysis. The report is divided into two colour-coded sections for your ease of use, Sector Analysis and Individual Company Analysis. Sector Analysis: Sales growth, market share and profitability are all analysed over a 10 year period giving you the fullest picture possible of the health of the market. Companies are ranked on these categories so you can see which companies are outshining the rest. Use the industry average tables to benchmark your own company’s performance- how do you compare to the rest of the industry? Industry Analysis: Each company receives a full page of analysis, evaluating their financial performance over the last five years so you get a full picture of the long term prospects of each company. Each company page of analysis is also packed with the following information: Full business name and address, Names and ages of directors, contact details and website address, seven unique charts showing at a glance the performance of each company, averages for the industry are also shown indicating the bare minimum each company should be looking to achieve, and five years of the latest accounts available, New! Written summary on each company highlighting their key strengths and weaknesses.

DALLAS, Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- The North Texas Roofing Contractors Association (NTRCA) annually honors roofing contractors that have made a significant contribution to the roofing industry. On February 3rd Castro Roofing of Texas, Inc. received one of three 2006 Golden Hammer Awards given out at their 7th Annual Awards Banquet in the commercial roofing category for its work on the Texas Instruments RFAB Building, located at 300 West Renner, Richardson, Texas. This new construction project entailed a combined 490,825 sq. ft. of PVC roofing system and a multi-ply Modified Bitumen Membrane roofing system. "The extreme complexity of high tech chip manufacturing made this roofing project just as complex," stated Rodolfo (Rudy) Rodriguez, President of Castro Roofing of Texas, "It required extremely close cooperation of the architects at PageSutherlandPage, general contractor Austin Commercial, and multiple other trades." Maintaining a dust-free environment is critical to the manufacture of high tech chips so ice and water shield was installed at all side, end laps and perimeter of the metal deck prior to the roofing system installation. "Any small, less than perfect aspect of this roofing installation could spell big trouble down the road for TI quality control," cited Mr. Rodriquez, "It sometimes seemed like there were as many inspectors as installers up there." With three layers of insulation and a fully adhered PVC membrane over a metal deck that had to be perfectly placed over a 490,000+ square foot roof, plenty could go wrong. "By only focusing on the client, Texas Instruments, we were able to meet their needs, finish on time and on budget. The whole team: client, architect, and client representatives, were satisfied with all phases of our work," concluded Mr. Rodriguez. Castro Roofing of Texas, Inc. (www.castroroofing.com) provides commercial roofing solutions, including new, re-roof, repair and maintenance to clients in North Texas and beyond. Castro leads its industry in providing decision- making and purchasing information to help all buyers of commercial roofing solutions obtain their best deal for price AND value. The 'Castro Standard' is the benchmark for all other commercial roofers to attain. Castro is a member of CCN, Certified Contractors NetWork, an association of contractors committed to improving their 'best practices', and employs the Monopolize Your Marketplace(TM) strategic marketing system, both are geared toward building a better company and letting the marketplace know how to value it.

Tough, Translucent GE Material Admits Full-Spectrum Natural Light into Living Spaces for Reduced Energy Costs While Providing Exceptional Weatherability The International Builders' Show 2007 ORLANDO, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--At the International Builders’ Show in Orlando, Fla., GE Plastics announced that its Lexan1 Thermoclear1 multiwall polycarbonate (PC) sheet will be featured on Centerpoint translucent roofs for the National Homebuilder Mainstream GreenHomeTM currently being constructed in Raleigh, N.C. The demonstration home, a joint project of Centerpoint Translucent Systems, LLC and Cherokee Investment Partners, will showcase a number of environmentally responsible features including three translucent roofs made with tough, virtually unbreakable Lexan Thermoclear sheet panels. Incorporated into Centerpoint’s patented roofing system, the GE material admits full-spectrum natural light while reflecting unwanted heat, avoiding the energy loss, and higher heating and cooling costs of glass roofing inserts. “The Mainstream GreenHome will demonstrate that green building technologies can be successfully integrated into the architecture of conventional subdivisions,” said Kendall Sayers, president of Centerpoint. “Our roofing systems featuring GE’s Lexan Thermoclear sheet are a great example of how energy efficiency can be combined with outstanding aesthetics and performance that will appeal to any homebuyer.” Centerpoint selected Lexan Thermoclear multiwall sheet for the pre-assembled roofing system based on the GE material’s outstanding performance properties: excellent light transmission; the ability to withstand wind loads of up to 140 mph; superior UV resistance and impact strength; light weight and design flexibility vs. glass; and exceptional sound and energy insulation. GE’s metallic tinted Lexan Thermoclear multiwall sheet in a custom-designed 25mm, three-wall configuration offers thermal efficiency five times greater than that of traditional insulated glass inserts and comes with a 10-year limited warranty. The home will feature three Centerpoint translucent roofs with Lexan Thermoclear sheet over three gable ends, allowing light to penetrate the home from above, yet maintaining thermal comfort by utilizing breakthrough reflective technology. The translucent Lexan panels on the roof allow soft, natural daylight into the home while reflecting unwanted heat. “With our strong focus on developing materials that can help our customers solve tough environmental challenges, GE Plastics is delighted to be a part of the GreenHome project,” said Michel van Acht, Lexan multiwall global product manager, GE Plastics. “Lexan Thermoclear sheet can make a significant difference in home energy consumption by letting in light while avoiding overheating. Innovative plastics such as Lexan Thermoclear sheet are making it practical and affordable to reduce any home’s impact on the environment.” Consumers purchasing new homes are increasingly requesting floor plans that include more natural light, both to improve appearance and reduce energy needed for interior lighting. However, intensive use of glass can cause harsh lighting effects and lead to interior heat buildup from penetration of near-infrared radiation, especially in hot and/or sunny locales. Cherokee’s GreenHome is the first home in the nation known to be built in a typical subdivision under the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Model Green Home Building Guidelines and is just one of three green homes in the nation known to meet such guidelines. The others are non-subdivision homes. In addition, the home will be certified with the Environmental Protection Agency/U.S. Department of Energy (EPA/DOE) Energy Star Program and the North Carolina Solar Center’s Healthy Built Homes state program, among others. The GreenHome is expected to be completed in the spring of 2007 and will be available for tours. For more information on the National Homebuilder Mainstream GreenHome please visit www.MainstreamGreenHome.com or contact Jonathan Millman at +1 973-286-8293. For more information on GE’s Lexan Thermoclear sheet products, please visit GE Plastics’ website at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.geplastics.com/sfs/SFS/en/ProductsAndServices/ ProductFamilyName/lexanthermoclear.html (Due to the length of this URL, it may be necessary to copy and paste it into your Internet browser's URL address field. You may also need to remove an extra space in the URL if one exists.), or click here. About Centerpoint Translucent Systems Centerpoint Translucent Systems is the market leader in residential modular day lighting systems. Centerpoint is widely recognized as the manufacturing leader of high performance alternative glazing materials in the North American marketplace. Centerpoint has been awarded the “2006 Crystal Achievement Award” for the most innovative glazing product by the members of the window and door industry and the National Glass Association. Centerpoint products have also been awarded the prestigious “Must Have Product for 2006” as presented by HGTV. More information is available at the company’s website at www.cptsystems.com. About GE Plastics GE Plastics (www.geplastics.com) is a global supplier of plastic resins widely used in automotive, healthcare, consumer electronics, transportation, performance packaging, building & construction, telecommunications, and optical media applications. The company manufactures and compounds polycarbonate, ABS, SAN, ASA, PPE, PC/ABS, PBT and PEI resins, as well as the LNP1 line of high-performance specialty compounds. GE Plastics, Specialty Film & Sheet manufactures high-performance Lexan1 sheet and film products used in thousands of demanding applications worldwide. In addition, GE Plastics’ dedicated Automotive organization is an experienced, world-wide competitor, offering leading plastics solutions for five key automotive segments: body panels and glazing; under the hood applications; component; structures and interiors; and lighting. As a Worldwide Partner of the Olympic Games, GE is the exclusive provider of a wide range of innovative products and services that are integral to a successful Games.

MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Miami’s Foram Group has announced plans to develop Brickell Financial Centre, a two-tower office and hotel landmark of 1.5 million square feet. The property is South Florida’s first LEED-precertified commercial office building at the solid silver level. The area’s first major office project since 2000, Brickell Financial Centre will unfold in two phases with groundbreaking set for April 2007. The $245 million first phase (completion fall 2009) will consist of 600,000 square feet in a 40-story tower - the first floor for lobby and retail space and the second 11 for parking, topped by 28 floors of class-A office space. The second tower, rising 68 stories, will include retail and office space, and a 300-room hotel. The 30,000-square-foot plaza (two-thirds the size of a football field) fronts Brickell Avenue, and is designed with grand proportions and social programming comparable to New York City’s Rockefeller Center. Ground floor retail and restaurants will encourage public usage. According to the project’s lead architect, Rod Henderer of Washington, DC’s RTKL, “Brickell Financial Centre will bring significant value to Miami with its vital urban space that will be a magnet for people.” RTKL also is responsible for the design of Miami’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Brickell Financial Centre’s core and shell are LEED precertified at the silver level, meaning the site development, design, resources and materials incorporate systems for sustainability and energy- and water-efficiency that comply with criteria developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Brenda V. Morawa, a registered mechanical engineer and sustainability professional, worked as technical advisor with RTKL and Foram to meet the LEED precertification requirements. Loretta H. Cockrum is Chairman and CEO of Foram Group, a company committed to green building practices. Foram Group is also developing one of the first green luxury apartment projects in the US, “The Bartram” in Gainesville, Florida. “We expect these buildings to attract the kinds of people who share our green building values.” Tenants of “green” buildings benefit from lower operating costs, a result of energy efficiency, and improved employee well-being, a function of natural light and better air quality. Brickell Financial Centre’s architects and engineers have designed the windows to withstand heavy wind loads, while diesel generators will ensure continued operation in weather-caused power outages.

GREENGUARD Certification further confirms Georgia-Pacific's commitment to quality building materials ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 8 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today at the International Builders' Show, Georgia-Pacific Gypsum LLC announced that its mold-resistant DensArmor(R) paperless interior drywall and DensArmor Plus(R) moisture- and mold-resistant paperless interior drywall are the first and only gypsum drywall products to be GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified(R). This prestigious certification, awarded by GREENGUARD Environmental Institute, recognizes indoor products that have low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In addition, these products have received the GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certification(SM). This certification subjects materials to additional emissions testing to identify low emitting products that can be used to provide school children with reduced exposure to indoor pollutants. "The GREENGUARD Certification is part of our ongoing commitment to provide high-quality building products that meet the demands of builders and customers," said David Fleiner, president of Georgia-Pacific's gypsum and chemical businesses. "This independent third-party certification verifies that these products meet these rigorous standards. These products, with their unique paperless design, not only provide mold resistance, but also are low emitting, both of which can positively impact indoor environments." To be GREENGUARD Certified means that these Georgia-Pacific products will be regularly tested to ensure that chemical and particle emissions meet the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute's rigorous emission standards for indoor building materials. "GREENGUARD is very excited about having Georgia-Pacific and their products join the GREENGUARD program," said Carl Smith, CEO and executive director of the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute. "The interior surfaces of most buildings today are covered with gypsum drywall. Georgia-Pacific's products can provide owners, builders and architects with tested, certified products that meet indoor air quality standards for VOC emissions." The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the American Lung Association, the World Health Organization, and other public health and environmental organizations view maintaining good indoor air quality as an important issue. "Anyone concerned about good indoor air quality should use these GREENGUARD Certified Georgia-Pacific Gypsum products," said Leo Bissonnette, general manager for Georgia-Pacific Gypsum. About DensArmor(R) and DensArmor Plus(R) Paperless Drywall DensArmor(R) paperless drywall from Georgia-Pacific Gypsum is a new generation paperless drywall designed as a replacement for traditional paper- faced drywall for residential interiors. Mold can develop when the combination of the right temperature, mold spores, moisture and a food source are present. Paper can be a food source, so substituting the glass-mat facings on DensArmor(R) for the paper facings found on traditional drywall removes a potential food source for mold. For areas where high humidity levels may be present, an extra level of protection is available with DensArmor Plus(R) paperless drywall using the same innovative glass-mat facings, but with the added benefit of a moisture- resistant core. About Georgia-Pacific Headquartered at Atlanta, Georgia-Pacific is one of the world's leading manufacturers and marketers of building products, tissue, packaging, paper, cellulose, and related chemicals. The company employs approximately 50,000 people at more than 300 locations in North America, South America and Europe. Georgia-Pacific has long been among the nation's leading manufacturers and suppliers of building products to lumber and building materials dealers and large do-it-yourself warehouse retailers, with brands such as Plytanium(R), Ply-Bead(R) and Wood I Beam(TM) offered by Georgia-Pacific Wood Products LLC and DensArmor Plus(R), DensGlass Gold(R) and ToughRock(R) offered by Georgia- Pacific Gypsum LLC. The familiar consumer tissue brands of Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP include Quilted Northern(R), Angel Soft(R), Brawny(R), Sparkle(R), Soft 'n Gentle(R), Mardi Gras(R), So-Dri(R) and Vanity Fair(R). Dixie Consumer Products LLC, a Georgia-Pacific company, manufactures the Dixie(R) brand of disposable cups, plates and cutlery. For more information, visit www.gp.com/build or call 800-BUILD GP. About the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) is an industry-independent, non-profit organization that oversees the GREENGUARD Certification Program. As an ANSI Accredited Standards Developer, GEI establishes acceptable indoor air standards for indoor products, environments, and buildings. GEI's mission is to improve public health and quality of life through programs that improve indoor air. For more information, visit www.GREENGUARD.org.

Less Than a Third of Homes in Hurricane Areas Have an Adequate Reinforcement System WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., Feb. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- The Weather Channel, the nation's pre-eminent source of weather news and information, and Amarr, a leading garage door manufacturer and distributor, have joined forces to create a nationwide safety and preparedness campaign dedicated to increasing public awareness before severe weather strikes. "With a long-standing commitment to keeping America ahead of the storm, The Weather Channel is pleased to team up with Amarr to help property owners understand the importance of taking precautions in advance of severe weather. Together, Amarr and The Weather Channel can be effective in educating the public about the value of being prepared before storms occur," said Shari Pace, Vice President of Licensing, The Weather Channel. "Although the strength of garage doors is a significant concern in high- wind conditions, many people simply are not aware of the need for reinforced garage doors," said Patrick O'Sullivan, Amarr's Vice-President of Marketing and New Ventures. "The Weather Channel and Amarr share a common goal in our desire to help people know how to prepare for severe weather." Research indicates that only 25 to 33 percent of homes in hurricane prone areas have an adequate wind load reinforcement system in place to protect garage doors. In addition, only 40 percent of consumers in hurricane prone areas know that their garage doors, by code, are required to meet building code criteria for wind pressures. "One of our goals is to make people aware of local building codes for garage door wind loads," O'Sullivan added. "Building codes for garage doors became much more stringent along coastal areas after Hurricane Andrew in 1992, but many people seem to be unaware of those changes. High winds also can be detrimental to garage doors 100 miles or more inland and in areas such as in Southern California, where the Santa Ana winds are prevalent, regardless that local building codes may not require reinforced garage doors." The safety and preparedness program planned by The Weather Channel and Amarr will provide information to consumers via several platforms, including weather.com and Amarr's web site. Homeowners interested in assessing their existing garage door can access amarr.com for a listing of qualified local garage door retailers by clicking on the "Where To Buy" tab. The campaign will officially kick off on July 1, just one month after the start of the 2007 Hurricane Season. In the future, The Weather Channel and Amarr will explore additional opportunities such as public events and classroom educational programs to provide further outreach for the safety message. "Garage doors are the largest openings in homes and, in some cases, businesses. If strong winds force the garage door in or out during a severe storm or hurricane, the extreme wind conditions could lead to a build-up of internal pressure in the structure that blows out the roof and supporting walls. Experts have surveyed post-hurricane damage and concluded that structures with properly reinforced garage doors suffered far less devastation than those without," O'Sullivan pointed out. To make garage doors much stronger in high-wind conditions, Amarr recommends a reinforcement system, which comes as an option on most new garage doors. About The Weather Channel The Weather Channel, a 24-hour weather network, is seen in more than 90 million U.S. households. Its Web site, weather.com, reaches more than 30 million unique users per month. The Web site's content is generally ranked within the 15 most popular in the U.S. by Nielsen//Net Ratings. The Weather Channel also operates Weatherscan, a 24-hour, all-local weather network available in 23 million households, The Weather Channel Radio Network, The Weather Channel Newspaper Services, and is the leading weather information provider for emerging technologies. This includes broadband and interactive television applications, with wireless weather products accessible through high-speed Internet services, mobile phones and personal digital assistants. The Weather Channel is owned by Landmark Communications, Inc., a Norfolk, VA- based, privately held media company. About Amarr Amarr is one of the world's leading manufacturers and distributors of residential and commercial garage doors and offers WindPro(R) reinforcement system to meet the building code requirements for high winds from hurricanes and wind storms. Established in 1951 by the Brenner family in Winston-Salem, NC, Amarr has grown to more than 1,600 team members, operating four plants and more than 65 door distribution centers in the United States, Mexico, Canada, and Hungary. More than 3,000 independent dealers, distributors, and leading retailers sell Amarr doors worldwide for the new construction and replacement markets. For more information about Amarr Garage Doors or to find a dealer, visit www.amarr.com or call 1-800-503-DOOR (3667).

Publication, website and symposium to provide innovative solutions for the $30 billion school construction market NEW YORK, Feb. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- In a joint initiative by The American Architectural Foundation and Architectural Record, "Great Schools by Design," key administrators from five school districts came together in Washington, D.C., recently to meet with 10 top school architects selected by the National Design Institute to design schools for these five districts. The designs will be presented in "Schools of the 21st Century," a multi- platform program launching this month and presented by Architectural Record, in partnership with the American Architectural Foundation and Edutopia. Created to bring design professionals together for effective school design for the future, "Schools of the 21st Century" began in January 2007 with the publication "Schools of the 21st Century." The program continues online with the website, www.schoolsofthe21stcentury.com, and finally, the program goes live in March 2007 with the "Schools of the 21st Century" Symposium. School construction, renovation and maintenance are expected to total nearly $30 billion annually. The "Schools of the 21st Century" publication, website and symposium will present innovative solutions to the serious facilities problems that architects and educators face. "The 'Schools of the 21st Century' program presents rich case studies and the results of a demanding design charette to help architects and school officials make better school design decisions. If you are interested in the future of school design and construction, the website and symposium will definitely bring to life what you'll see in the pages of the magazine," says Robert Ivy, editor in chief, Architectural Record, and vice president, editorial director for McGraw-Hill Construction Media. "We are excited about the opportunity to partner with the American Architectural Foundation and Edutopia. 'Schools of the 21st Century' presents a rare chance to educate and simultaneously inform both school architects and school officials. This initiative will play a strong role in the future of school design, and the publication will be a guide school officials and design professionals alike will reference for a long time," says Laura Viscusi, publisher, Architectural Record, and vice president, McGraw Hill Construction Integrated Media. The "Schools of the 21st Century" publication, published in January 2007, will reach over 80,000 architects and school officials actively involved in school design and construction. Architects, school officials and superintendents responsible for large facility programs will have a chance to discuss issues and innovations in school design at the "Schools of the 21st Century" symposium, co-located at the American Association of School Administrators (AASA) conference, March 1, 2007, in New Orleans. And online, www.schoolsofthe21stcentury.com will feature enhanced content, sponsors' links, slideshows, news updates and reader response. More About McGraw-Hill Construction McGraw-Hill Construction connects people, projects and products across the design and construction industry. For more than a century, the Company has remained North America's leading provider of construction project information, plans and specifications, product information, industry news, and industry trends and forecasts. In print and online, The Company offers a variety of tools, applications, and resources that easily integrate with its customers' workflows. Backed by the power of Dodge, Sweets, Architectural Record, Engineering News-Record and 11 Regional Publications, McGraw-Hill Construction serves more than one million customers within the $4.6 trillion global construction community. To learn more, visit: www.construction.com. About The McGraw-Hill Companies Founded in 1888, The McGraw-Hill Companies is a leading global information services provider meeting worldwide needs in the financial services, education and business information markets through leading brands such as Standard & Poor's, McGraw-Hill Education, BusinessWeek and J.D. Power and Associates. The Corporation has more than 280 offices in 40 countries. Sales in 2006 were $6.3 billion. Additional information is available at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.mcgraw-hill.com/.

ACTON, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As the temperature drops and winter sets in, homeowners may notice a frigid breeze wafting through their homes. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) cites air leaks like these as a significant cause of energy loss. One source of these air leaks, the pull-down attic stairs, can easily be sealed with DraftCap. AttiCap Corporation’s Draft Cap combats drafts by forming a protective barrier over the hatch leading to your attic. Homeowners can save precious energy dollars by preventing air leaks from penetrating the attic stairs. Draft Cap is a dust-resistant, polystyrene foam cover that insulates the area where the pull-down stairs are mounted in the attic, stopping drafts before consumers notice them in their homes. “Many people don’t know that the attic stairwell is a huge source of drafts,” says Paul Panetta, president of AttiCap. “If you look at your attic, the entire floor is insulated except for the rough opening hole where the attic stairway fits.” he continues. After years working as a builder, Panetta created Draft Cap to stop drafts in his own home and in his customers’ homes. In addition to stopping cold air from seeping in from the attic, Draft Cap is equally effective at preventing summer heat from warming air-conditioned areas. Energy used for heating and cooling accounts for 50% to 70% of the total energy used in the average American home, according to the DOE, which specifically recommends that consumers insulate their attic’s pull-down stairs. The Association for Better Insulation, an independent website researching insulation technologies, examined the energy savings from Draft Cap in July 2005 and found consumers can save nearly $20.00 per month on energy costs. The U.S. Department of Energy also cited significant savings from proper insulation: “Homeowners can save as much as 10% on heating and cooling bills by reducing the air leaks in your home.” Installing Draft Cap is simple and requires no special tools or assembly. Place the Draft Cap over the stairs to block drafts and, when you need to access your attic, slide the cap out of your way. Draft Cap satisfies all building codes for insulation over the attic access panel with an R-value of +11. For information contact AttiCap at (888) 292-2229, or visit website at www.draftcap.com.

Revolutionary Product to Begin Shipping in the Second Quarter MORRISVILLE, N.C., Feb. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- LED Lighting Fixtures Inc. (LLF) today announced its first product, a six-inch down light for residential and commercial markets. LED technology generates light in a new way and LLF's product is the first LED recessed down light to deliver approximately 650 lumens from a fixture at 10-12 watts (approximately 60 lumens per watt). The product also features excellent color rendering, (CRI of 92), a unique installation mechanism that allows it to be used in a standard six-inch recessed housing and it is dimmable. The down light will be available in two color temperatures, 2700K and 3500K, for warm and cool white applications. LLF will begin shipping these products in the second quarter of 2007. LLF will demonstrate its products at the NAHB 2007 International Builders' Show in Orlando, Florida from February 7-10, 2007 in booth S10313. At this show, visitors will experience a full-scale comparison of LLF down lights to incandescent and compact fluorescent products. Neal Hunter, LLF's CEO, stated, "Our introduction of a viable LED product for general illumination will have historic implications for the lighting industry. This is the first lighting fixture to rival the output, appearance and lighting quality of a 65 watt incandescent product while offering a justifiable cost of ownership. We believe LED lighting for the mainstream has finally been enabled and LLF has invented a way. This unprecedented technology will not only change the industry, but also reshape the way the average consumer views lighting." Although the LLF fixture platform can accommodate any competitive product, LLF chose the new XLamp XR-E power LEDs from Cree, Inc. (NASDAQ:CREE) for its initial product release. "Cree's performance is unmatched with the new XR-E design and recent advances in its power package technology," stated Gerry Negley, LLF's Chief Technology Officer. LEDs are one of the world's most energy efficient light sources and LLF's product is targeted to use approximately 17% and 50% of the energy consumption of incandescent and compact fluorescent (CFL) lamps, respectively. LLF's product lasts more than 20 times longer than incandescent and 5 times longer than CFL bulbs, which lowers maintenance costs. These recessed down lights are also virtually unbreakable, light weight and environmentally safe. About LED Lighting Fixtures, Inc. LED Lighting Fixtures, Inc. (LLF) is a privately held company headquartered near Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. Its mission is to accelerate the adoption and evolution of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) into high volume general lighting applications so that consumers can realize lower energy and maintenance costs. LED lighting is significant as it is expected to provide decades of lifetime under normal operation, and it uses a fraction of the power required for traditional lighting solutions. For more information about LED Lighting Fixtures, please visit our website at www.LLFinc.com.

CLEVELAND--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GE Consumer & Industrial’s drive to innovate and lead the way to general illumination with white, light-emitting diode (LED) solutions—on a global scale in commercial, industrial and residential settings—kicks off with a symbolic and meaningful name change. Going forward, GELcore, LLC, will operate as Lumination, LLC. The new name reflects the fast-growing business unit’s vision of imagination with light, and embraces GE’s heritage of innovation and optimism for the future. “Our name change emphasizes an important element of our growth strategy,” states David Elien, president of Lumination. “Our focus since our inception has been lighting applications that leverage the benefits of LEDs to drive real value for customers. We remain committed to delivering best-in-class LED lighting solutions in key segments such as signage, architecture, transportation signals and retail display, while also setting our sights on global distinction in the emerging general illumination market segment.” Lumination, under its old name, brought its first white LED solutions to market with its Tetra® Power White LED solution for channel letter signage. Further progression toward white LED preeminence occurred when the company’s white LED refrigerated display case solution earned widespread acceptance. Eight of the top 10 U.S. supermarkets have reacted positively toward testing and use of the Lumination solution, and Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., committed late last year to install the company’s refrigerated display case solution in over 500 stores in North America. It will be the world’s single largest installation of white LEDs replacing fluorescent in a display lighting application. Other factors contributed to the timing of the name change: * Lumination expects to introduce numerous white LED signage, commercial refrigeration, architectural and general illumination solutions in 2007, as well as a white LED emitter that targets high quality-of-light general illumination applications. * Lumination’s investment in new products will increase more than 50 percent in 2007 vs. 2006 * GE strengthened its global position in LEDs in late 2006 by investing $100 million in the Lumination business and by forming a strategic alliance with the Nichia Corporation, the world’s largest LED manufacturer and a leader in phosphors and optoelectronics. Lumination’s LED system expertise and its ability to help customers significantly reduce energy and maintenance costs have contributed to the development of numerous important customer relationships. Leading companies such as Hilton Hotels Corporation and The Home Depot have entrusted Lumination to provide outdoor signage solutions for all new construction work. Entire states such as Kentucky and large metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles have used Lumination solutions to retrofit traffic and pedestrian signals. The company has grown more than 30 percent annually since it was founded. Initiating the name change makes customers aware of Lumination's intent to be a global leader in the emerging white LED general illumination market segment—the great frontier of commercial, industrial and residential lighting. “We’re going to capitalize on our ability to provide GE 'ecomaginationSM' LED solutions for signage, architectural, transportation signals and retail display applications,” notes Elien. “This will be especially important as we move down the path toward general illumination with viable LED alternatives to incumbent lighting technologies such as fluorescent.” “While the technology shift won’t happen over night,” Elien says, “Lumination will be at the forefront of the transformation.” About Lumination, LLC Lumination, LLC, a subsidiary of GE Consumer & Industrial, drives innovation, energy efficiency and cost savings for customers that use LED products, systems and solutions. Fitted with robust, low–voltage, long–life LED light engines, Lumination solutions deliver world–class, GE–grade performance. For more information, please visit www.led.com. About GE Consumer & Industrial GE Consumer & Industrial spans the globe as an industry leader in major appliance, lighting and integrated industrial equipment, systems and services. Providing solutions for commercial, industrial and residential use in more than 100 countries, GE Consumer & Industrial uses innovative technologies and "ecomagination," a GE initiative to aggressively bring to market new technologies that help customers and consumers meet pressing environmental challenges, to deliver comfort, convenience and electrical protection and control. General Electric (NYSE: GE) brings imagination to work, selling products under the Monogram®, Profile™, GE®, Hotpoint®, SmartWater™, Reveal®, Edison™ and Energy Smart™ consumer brands, and Entellisys™ industrial brand. For more information, consumers may visit www.ge.com.

ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Builders looking to capture additional efficiencies and buyer satisfaction should look to the rooftop. Owens Corning (NYSE:OC) , the manufacturer of America's # 1 brand of roofing shingles*, introduces Duration(TM) Series shingles with SureNail(R) Technology. Due to the liberal nailing area, contractors report improved productivity and greater accuracy, allowing them to get on to their next roof sooner and reduce builder cycle times. Duration Series shingles also deliver greater wind protection -- resisting up to category three hurricane force winds. Owens Corning is the only maker of asphalt roofing shingles with this powerful combination of benefits. -- Reduce callbacks: Installation errors can trigger inspection redtags on the job site. They also may cause leaks or tear-offs in high winds, producing a callback from the homeowner. Duration Shingles with SureNail Technology have a wider, reinforced nailing area and a clearly recognizable nailing strip that allows roofing subcontractors to install with greater accuracy. -- Improve cycle time: Due to the liberal nailing area associated with the SureNail strip, roofing contractors have reported productivity gains, allowing them to move on to the next roof sooner. Roofs that go up fast with fewer mistakes reduce cycle time for builders. -- Gives homebuyers peace of mind: The additional bonding strength provided by the interaction between the Tru-Bond(R) sealant and the SureNail nailing strip gives shingles with SureNail Technology extra high wind performance: 130 mph on Duration Premium shingles and 110 mph on Duration shingles. The industry standard is 70 mph and 90 mph respectively. That's a differentiator buyers will notice. Duration Premium shingles feature a bold, vibrant, thick-looking pattern while Duration shingles provide a soft, muted pattern. Both are available in an extensive array of 12 colors. Duration Series shingles come with a class A UL fire rating, the highest in the industry, as well as a 10-year algae-resistance warranty**. "Building codes have become more stringent for roofing due to the recent history of rough weather. By changing the way our shingle layers bond, Duration shingles carry a wind warranty equal to most severe-weather conditions," said Bert Elliott, Residential Roofing Shingles product manager for Owens Corning. "The additional benefits to builders are clear: the liberal nailing area gives builders confidence that the shingles are installed right." Owens Corning (NYSE:OC) is a world leader in building materials systems and composite solutions. A Fortune 500 company for more than 50 years, Owens Corning people redefine what is possible each day to deliver high-quality products and services ranging from insulation, roofing, siding and manufactured stone veneer, to glass composite materials used in transportation, electronics, telecommunications and other high-performance applications. Since the company's founding in 1938, Owens Corning has become a market-leading innovator of glass fiber technology with sales of $6.3 billion in 2005 and 20,000 employees in 26 countries. Additional information is available at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.owenscorning.com/ .

Gypsum Panels Actively Inhibit Mold and Provide Ease of Installation CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Whether it’s a basement, bathroom or any other commercial or residential environment with incidental or intermittent moisture exposure, construction professionals and homeowners alike have a new weapon in the fight against mold. USG (NYSE:USG) today introduced SHEETROCK® brand MOLD TOUGH™ gypsum panels, the newest product in a family of industry-leading wallboard products marketed under the SHEETROCK brand name. The SHEETROCK MOLD TOUGH gypsum panel is the first patented wallboard that actively inhibits mold growth on the surface paper, both back and front, and in the gypsum core. Utilizing a proprietary technology, ingredients are added during the manufacturing process to protect the wallboard from moisture and mold. The new product joins a complete family of mold-resistant products that includes DUROCK® brand cement board and FIBEROCK® brand AQUA-TOUGH™ interior panels, tile backboard and underlayment. As a result of the premium performance of SHEETROCK MOLD TOUGH gypsum panels, the new product will replace SHEETROCK brand HUMITEK® gypsum panels and SHEETROCK brand gypsum panels, water resistant (green board) in USG’s family of industry-leading products. The HUMITEK and water-resistant product lines will be phased out as the new SHEETROCK MOLD TOUGH product is introduced on a regional basis. “Moisture damage and mold growth are widespread problems that continue to plague builders, contractors and homeowners,” said John Pappas, USG’s product marketing manager, drywall systems. “We believe that the new MOLD TOUGH panel, when combined with proper building design, construction and maintenance practices, can significantly reduce typical moisture and mold problems. For more than a century, USG has continually been at the forefront of drywall research and development, and SHEETROCK MOLD TOUGH panels are a great example of that – superior mold-inhibiting qualities combined with easy installation give construction professionals and homeowners a product they can rely on in a wide variety of applications.” Research has shown that the majority of moisture problems still originate with water leaks – wet equipment or components, poor roofing or exterior flashing details, plumbing or HVAC system leaks, or poor site drainage or flooding. The most effective and economical strategy is to protect building materials and equipment from exposure to moisture during storage, construction and after completion of the building envelope. SHEETROCK MOLD TOUGH gypsum panels score a 10 (on a scale of 0 to 10) for mold resistance under ASTM D3273 guidelines, but in addition to their mold-inhibiting properties, the panels save contractors and homeowners time and money. They score and snap quickly, finish easily and require no special installation procedures. The new panels are designed specifically for use in interior areas. They will be available in 1/2-, 5/8-, 3/4- and 1-inch thicknesses in a variety of lengths. In addition, 1/2-inch panels that are UL classified for fire resistance (Type C) and 5/8-inch panels that are classified for fire resistance (Type X) will also be offered. SHEETROCK MOLD TOUGH panels will be available regionally beginning in March at building material dealers, lumberyards and home improvement retailers. The initial rollout will begin in the Northeast, with other areas to follow into spring. Building professionals and consumers interested in finding out more information about moisture and mold issues can visit getmoldfacts.com, USG’s Web site developed specifically about preventing mold. The site provides visitors with a comprehensive library of information and resources, as well as information about SHEETROCK MOLD TOUGH gypsum panels. This information is also available by calling (800) USG-4YOU or writing to USG, 550 W. Adams St., Chicago, IL 60661. USG Corporation is a Fortune 500 manufacturer and distributor of high-performance building systems through its United States Gypsum Company, USG Interiors, Inc. and L&W Supply Corporation subsidiaries. Headquartered in Chicago, the company serves the residential and non-residential construction markets, repair and remodel construction markets, and industrial processes. USG’s wall, ceiling, flooring and roofing products provide leading-edge building solutions for customers, while L&W Supply center locations efficiently stock and deliver building materials nationwide. For additional information, visit the USG Web site at www.usg.com.

ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 105,000 attendees are expected at the International Builders' Show in Orlando, Fla., from Feb. 7 to 10. Builders will preview the latest developments and technologies making news in the industry, and will find their answers in a complete, 2,700 square-foot home constructed in the parking lot of the Orange County Convention Center. The 2007 NextGen "First to the Future" Home Experience will allow builders to not just learn about, but experience all the innovations and best practices that represent the future of home construction. The home is built to be stronger, greener, more efficient and more digitally connected than any other on the market. Built to the Institute for Business & Home Safety's Fortified ... for safer living(R) program, by TownHomes LLC, the home also boasts a phenomenal level of hurricane resistance, including a 26-gauge steel roof by DECRA Roofing Systems, windows and doors from PGT Industries that meet the toughest wind-borne debris requirements in the nation, and even a StormRoom by DuPont built to protect a family against a Category 5 hurricane or tornadoes as recently experienced in central Florida. In all, the home will include more than 15 technologies approved by PATH (Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing). Additional features include: DuPont house wrap and solid surfaces, green friendly shutters by Sunland and a tankless water heater from Seisco. A perfect fit with today's busy lifestyle, this home will also include Life|ware(TM) by Exceptional Innovation, software that allows homeowners to access everything from their favorite song to the temperature of their oven, keeping watch over everything from the visitor at the front door to the weather for the upcoming week, via touch screens throughout the home. There is so much to see at the NextGen "First to the Future" Home Experience, and the best part is that it is not a concept home. Everything you see is available, and affordable, right now. About iShow (www.ishow.com): iShow is a Bellevue, Wash.-based company, the producer of the NextGen Home Experience, includes the popular NextGen Series of Demonstration Homes at CES, IBS and other major annual trade shows; the "Your House & Home" TV Show's NextGen Project home which can be seen nationally on 130 stations and the Certified NextGen Communities are built to the NextGen standard.

Universal Wireless Network Enhances Communication Among Physicians, Improving Patient Care and Productivity VIENNA, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MobileAccess Networks, the foremost enterprise wireless innovator, announced today that it is working together with Sprint (NYSE: S) to install its Wire-it-Once™ Universal Wireless Network at the George Washington University Hospital. Using the MobileAccess solution, Sprint will provide wireless coverage of its services on both the Nextel National Network and Nationwide Sprint PCS Network throughout the 400,000 square-foot facility over a single wireless infrastructure. With this state-of-the-art deployment, physicians and caregivers using Sprint and Nextel handsets can communicate among each other and access patient information from almost anywhere in the facility, boosting productivity and enhancing the overall patient experience. At The George Washington University Hospital, wireless technologies and applications are increasingly vital tools for delivering high-quality patient care. In developing its wireless strategy with Sprint, the hospital realized they needed a solution that not only delivered pervasive wireless coverage, but also could adapt to their evolving wireless requirements. Ultimately, The George Washington University Hospital sought a flexible in-building wireless infrastructure that could cost effectively expand and adapt to new, perhaps unanticipated, future wireless requirements. “We are excited to work with partners like MobileAccess to provide differentiated and innovative mobile solutions that are critical for every business. By providing a scalable coverage and capacity platform for wireless voice and data services on our two strong networks, CNS solutions can enhance the mobility and productivity of staff at George Washington University Hospital,” said Mike Wajsgras, director of sales for CNS, Sprint. “This new solution facilitates constant communication of secure information amongst hospital staff; an aspect very critical to patient care.” The modular design of the MobileAccess solution allows The George Washington University Hospital to deploy the platform with confidence, knowing that it supports all of their current wireless communications needs while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to new, perhaps unanticipated, future wireless requirements. “The George Washington University Hospital is one of the most technologically advanced hospitals in the country,” said Richard Becker, MD, Chief Executive Officer, The George Washington University Hospital. “We are constantly exploring opportunities to remain on the cutting-edge. We are pleased Sprint selected the MobileAccess solution because it enables our 830 physicians and 680 nurses to better serve the 200,000 patients we treat each year. The ability to use Sprint’s wireless services to quickly communicate throughout the hospital is a critical component for delivering enhanced patient care.” “George Washington University Hospital’s physicians, nurses and administrators depend on reliable wireless service to collaborate on critical and confidential patient data. Having reliable coverage is no longer a convenient option, it’s a necessity,” said Cathy Zatloukal, president and CEO of MobileAccess Networks. “While the current focus is on providing comprehensive coverage for Sprint’s services, our solution is designed to be multi-service capable so that hospital planners can remain flexible and expand coverage as they grow. With our Wire-it-Once™ approach, the hospital can cost-effectively add new services and applications, such as additional cellular services, Wi-Fi, wireless medical telemetry or location-based services, without disturbing the sensitive hospital environment or disrupting existing services.” Sprint provides communication solutions that help healthcare providers balance patient care, operational efficiency, cost management and regulatory compliance. For more information, visit www.sprint.com/healthcare.

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- What is Concreteideas.com? Concreteideas.com is the first website designed by Professionals for Professionals in the Decorative Concrete and Construction Community. Our focus is to promote the use of Decorative Concrete to Architects, Designers, Builders and other Industry Professionals. Those who specialize in retail, commercial and custom residential projects will find answers, articles, technical information, ideas and local professional decorative concrete contractors. The Concreteideas.com website features an innovative new design concept that is easy to navigate and contains images, video clips, technical data and companies showcasing the very best of what Decorative Concrete has to offer. Concreteideas.com has something for everyone. Installation professionals can showcase their talents and abilities in the Premium Image Gallery and on their Custom Feature Page while Architects and Designers can find useful information and Specifications in the Technical Data section. Visitors to the site will find inspiration, innovative new finishes and creative new design trends. The site will help to educate the user and make Decorative Concrete an easy-to-choose option for any project.

With Solar Power, Nanak's Landscaping's Electrical Meter Spins Backwards, and Their Vehicle Fleet Gets 50 Miles per Gallon ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- In one week Nanak's Landscaping has avoided emitting 1,734 lbs. in greenhouse gases (CO2) into the atmosphere. This is equivalent to the energy required for powering 28 homes for one day, or the energy needed to operate a television for 5,442 hours (227 days). With renewable energy a hot button, one Florida landscape firm was savvy enough to quickly apply for the state's Alternative Energies Technologies Grant Program. "The program helped by making suggestions on the quality of materials required and provided a solid profile of what would best suit the grant qualifications," said Sampuran Khalsa, president of Nanak's Landscaping. His company's plan was approved and has taken the first step toward a renewable future in Florida. As part of the 2006 Florida Energy Act, the grant program, according to the Florida Energy Office, is designed to "stimulate capital investment in the state and promote and enhance the statewide utilization of renewable energy technologies." "We are actually making more energy than we need and selling the excess power back to the grid," said Mike Swaggerty, Orlando branch manager for Nanak's. "Our electric meter is actually spinning backwards!" he continued. Installing a 20.1 kW Solar PV System at their Orlando facility and corporate headquarters, Nanak's has been operating on solar power since January 19 of this year. In the week following, Nanak's has avoided emitting 1,734 lbs. in greenhouse gases (CO2) into the atmosphere. This is equivalent to the energy required for powering 28 homes for one day, or the energy needed to operate a television for 5,442 hours (227 days). "Nanak's is setting a leading example of the progress that is possible when business and government work together to solve our country's energy challenges," said Khalsa. "We are helping to improve the environment here in Florida while helping to promote the clean energy technology that is so important to our nation's future," he continued. Nanak's Landscaping's commitment to the environment and energy efficiency goes far beyond solar power. With fuel prices reaching all-time highs, Nanak's has also invested in a fleet of Prius Hybrids for regional and operational managers. Achieving 50 miles per gallon, the fleet is slashing fuel costs and serves as a traveling reminder to employees and clients that the company's ownership is working to contribute to energy efficiency.

WINTER PARK, Fla., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In the wake of the recent tornado damage, the Florida Roofing, Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors Association (FRSA) stands ready to help those in need of information on how to handle their roofing repair or replacement questions. By accessing the association's website: www.floridaroof.com or calling 800-767-3772, consumers can access valuable tips on what to look for when hiring a roofing contractor, including a list of FRSA members within their area. FRSA is a nonprofit, state trade organization that represents the professional roofing contractor community in the State of Florida. Founded in 1922, the association works to promote professionalism within its industry and provides education to consumers on proper roofing practices and the importance of hiring qualified, insured and licensed contractors. FRSA currently represents the interests and acts as the voice of over 850 members before government and regulatory bodies of all kinds.

Solution to America’s Parking Crisis, State-of-the-Art Technology Delivers Most Space Efficient Parking NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As reported on the Today Show, AutoMotion Parking Systems www.automotionparking.com introduces the first fully automated robotic parking garage system in New York City providing the easiest, fastest and safest way to park available. The facility is now open to residents and the parking public at 123 Baxter Street, a newly completed luxury condominium building in the city’s vibrant Nolita neighborhood. The AutoMotion Parking System showcases state-of-the-art technology developed by the world’s leading German industrial manufacturer Stolzer Parkhaus, which has successfully built 28 automated facilities operating in 11 countries worldwide. MJS Garage Management, in business since 1947, will operate the first system. Mr. Michael Schneeweiss, President of MJS comments, “I’ve never seen a parking system that works so efficiently. We’ve been to Germany and to Washington to see operational systems and are convinced this is the future of the parking industry in terms of reliability, safety, and convenience to the customer.” Park. Swipe. Leave With attendant-free, fully automatic robotic parking of vehicles, car owners will enjoy the retrieval of their vehicle in less than 2.5 minutes with no risk of dents, scratches or dings to the car. AutoMotion also eliminates the chance of damage to their car interior or theft of personal goods left inside of car, i.e., an iPod or briefcase, since no one ever enters the vehicle. Once a customer drives inside the garage’s entry/exit room and locks their car, they swipe a card to activate the system and leave. Their vehicle remains motionless, transported on a pallet automatically to its storage bay. When returning, customers swipe their card and their car is returned back to the entry/exit point and the customer starts the car and drives away. No tipping of attendants will be required. Without the frequent running and idling of auto engines found within traditional car valet parking systems, the environmental nuisance of harmful car exhaust fumes and excessive noise will also be removed. As an added benefit, the legendary German automotive manufacturer, BMW, in partnership with AutoMotion, will pick-up, service and deliver any make or brand of car parked within an AutoMotion system garage. “While the first application of AutoMotion technology in New York is within a luxury condominium development, it is fully adaptable to service business complexes, hospitals, retail centers and other parking intensive projects,” says Perry Finkelman, Partner and Managing Director of AutoMotion Parking systems. “AutoMotion delivers tremendous advantages to both the customer and real estate developer while maximizing space, cost savings and convenience. Looking ahead, current AutoMotion research and development is formulating equipment for government agencies to incorporate within high technology safety and security detection parking operations.” Space Saving; Cost Reducing Partner Modern AutoMotion parking systems maximize the parking capacity of garage facilities by double or triple the amount housed by traditional parking systems through significant reduction of unnecessary headroom and other wasted space. This impressive standard delivers greater parking capability and profit value, with the further advantage of reduced operating costs. Demonstrating these benefits in Manhattan is the 123 Baxter Street luxury condominium development where AutoMotion will debut. The automated robotic parking system technology enabled the transformation of a former 100 parking space lot into a 67 parking space garage with 24 condominium units and retail shops. Reliability AutoMotion technology has been the global leader in automated robotic parking since 1996 when the first installation was completed in Kronach, Germany. AutoMotion maintains teams of specially trained mechanics, available 24 hours, 7 days a week in tandem with traditional parking service maintenance firms. Every parking cardholder is given an emergency telephone number to summon expert assistance. While current AutoMotion systems are designed to accommodate nearly all passenger vehicle sizes, excluding the largest of sports utility vehicles, the company may easily customize an automated system to fit any vehicle size specification.