Industrial News

September 04, 2008

Will California Employers Ever Get the Breaks They Deserve?

Employer Defense Attorney, Clifton Smith, comments on the continuing saga of meal period-rest period litigation in California.

Oceanside, CA (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- Employer Defense Attorney, Clifton Smith, comments on the continuing saga of meal period-rest period litigation in California.

In California, an employer's duty to provide meal periods and rest periods to its employees has generated significant litigation as well as legal controversy. Recently, both the Federal Courts and California's Appellate Courts have addressed the issue with dramatically different results. This issue now awaits potential review by the California Supreme Court.

In general, California requires employers to provide at least one thirty minute meal period to all employees who work at least five hours each day, with a ten minute rest period provided in the middle of each four hour work period. California Labor Code § 226.7 requires an employer to pay an extra hour of penalty pay to an employee if the employer fails to provide a meal period or rest period, as mandated by an applicable Order of the Industrial Welfare Commission. "For any employer who fails to provide a meal period or rest period as required in California, the financial exposure can be significant," states attorney Smith.

Incredibly, one California Appellate Court asserted that the term, "provide," means that California employers must ensure that employees are actually relieved of all duties for meal and rest periods. (Cicairos v. Summit Logistics, Inc. (2006) 133 Cal.App.4th 949; 35 Cal.Rptr.3d. 243). "This Court would have an employer accept the onerous responsibility of making certain that each and every employee actually takes the complete rest period or meal period, regardless of the number of employees, or where such employees might be physically located, and despite off-site, work responsibilities (e.g.-transportation-delivery) that might make such oversight impossible. It is an impossible standard for an employer to satisfy. It would encourage employees to game the system for financial rewards," claims attorney Smith.

Federal District Courts, as well as a much publicized ruling by a California Appellate Court in the "Brinker" case, take the opposite position. These courts state that while employers cannot impede, discourage or dissuade employees from taking mandated meal or rest periods, they need only provide the opportunity for these breaks, not actually ensure that these meal periods and rest periods are taken.

In White v. Starbucks Corp. (N.D. Cal. 2007) 497 F.Supp.2d 1080, a Federal District Court, for the Northern District of California, held that an employer must offer meal periods, but is not required to ensure that employees are actually taking these breaks. In Brown v. Federal Express Corp. (C.D. Cal, Feb. 26, 2008) 2008 US District Lexus 17125: WL 906517, another Federal District Court, for the Central District of California, agreed with the Northern District Court's reasoning in White. In the case of Kenny v. Supercuts, Inc. (N.D. Cal. June 2, 2008)) US District Lexus 43070, the District Court, for the Northern District of California, concluded that an employer is not required to schedule breaks, nor ensure that such breaks are taken, nor even ensure that employees take a full meal period. "These Federal District Court judges decided that an employer is only required to provide the opportunity to take such breaks. But then it is the employees' responsibility to ensure that such breaks are taken," observes attorney Smith.

Finally, a California Appellate Court, for the Fourth Appellate District, arrived at the same conclusion. In Brinker Restaurant Corporation, et al v. Superior Court (July 2, 2008) D049331, the Appellate Court concluded that employers cannot impede, discourage or dissuade employees from taking rest periods or meal periods, but they need only provide, not ensure, that such meal periods and rest periods are taken. "The Brinker Court even offered flexibility to employers on the timing of such breaks," noted Mr. Smith. "This Court stated that rest periods need only be authorized every four hours and need not be taken in the middle of each work period, where doing so would be impractical. It also construed the statutory language of the California Labor Code to permit employers to offer a meal period anytime within the five hour, work period window." "This Appellate Court's ruling in the Brinker case is the polar opposite of the Appellate Court's position in Cicairos. The two positions cannot be reconciled," concludes Attorney Smith.

"The reasoning and decisions of the Appellate Court in Brinker, as well as the decisions of the Federal District Courts, offer a rational interpretation and application of California law, ensuring greater employer compliance with the duty to provide meal periods and rest periods to employees. These decisions shift responsibility for taking breaks to the employees, where such responsibility should be placed," states Attorney Smith. It is possible that the California Supreme Court may grant review of the Court's ruling in Brinker. Absent intervention by the California Supreme Court, the shifting legal standards and the ultimate question of employer liability for failing to "provide" meal periods and rest periods will remain.

CE Smith Law Firm is the small employer's resource in California, educating and empowering its clients to effectively manage their employees, ensuring that its clients remain labor law compliant, and serving as its clients' advocate, to advance and protect their interests.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:10 AM | Comments (0)

Strategies for Success in Construction Lending Seminar is a "Meaningful Meeting," Proceeds Benefiting Habitat for Humanity

Granite Loan Management's 10th annual Strategies for Success in Construction Lending (SSCL) Seminar is a "Meaningful Meeting" with 10% of the total room revenue to be donated equally to Habitat for Humanity and to causes supported by Community Footprints, a social responsibility program sponsored by The Ritz-Carlton.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- Granite Loan Management's 10th annual Strategies for Success in Construction Lending (SSCL) Seminar is a "Meaningful Meeting" with 10% of the total room revenue to be donated equally to Habitat for Humanity and to causes supported by Community Footprints, a social responsibility program sponsored by The Ritz-Carlton.

Donations will be made directly by The Ritz-Carlton to Habitat for Humanity and to the Community Footprints Fund that benefits hunger and poverty relief, education and development for disadvantaged youth, and environmental conservation.

The SSCL Seminar will be held December 2-4, 2008 at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans in New Orleans, Louisiana. Built on a decade of strong industry support, the SSCL Seminar is the premiere construction lending event attracting attendees from across the country.

For more information, visit www.ssclseminar.com. To receive event updates and Granite Loan Management's Construction Lending News quarterly periodical, contact us at SSCL @ graniteloan.com or call 866.710.4087.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:10 AM | Comments (0)

American Clay Earth Plaster Appoints Peggy Cunningham as Sales Team Leader, National & Regional; Open House Sept. 4th

American Clay Enterprises Inc. is proud to announce the appointment of Peggy Cunningham as Sales Team Manager. Cunningham will be responsible for facilitating the regional and national availability and application of American Clay's earth friendly, natural wall plaster finishes - both interior, and the upcoming exterior launch. Cunningham will work with channels throughout her region to develop specification of American Clay's products. American Clay is hosting an open house on September 4th, from 3:00-7:00pm, to celebrate one year in the company's facility that more than quadrupled its previous production space, and allowed for corporate offices, and designated rooms for Research & Development and for workshops.

Albuquerque, NM (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- American Clay Enterprises Inc. is proud to announce the appointment of Peggy Cunningham as Sales Team Manager. Cunningham will be responsible for facilitating the regional and national availability and application of American Clay's earth friendly, natural wall plaster finishes - both interior, and the upcoming exterior launch. Cunningham will work with channels throughout her region to develop specification of American Clay's products.

Cunningham will be available to dealers, distributors and wholesalers to assist in the growth of their American Clay sales. In addition, she will assist other team members with presentations to architects, interior designers, developers, builders, remodelers, contractors, design build firms and owners to discuss the features and benefits of the various products and to help determine which finish system best fits a project(s).

"Peggy is a breath of fresh air! Her professionalism and tenacity promises to bring a new charge to this exciting line of products," states Carol Baumgartel, VP of Marketing for the company. CEO and Founder Croft Elsaesser adds, "I look forward to working with someone who is eager to get into the trenches to promote and learn the product. Her experience with sales and the 'green approach' is a great asset."

Cunningham grew up, as she says, in a "construction family" and has been involved in the green arena especially the last several years, implementing "green cleaning" programs in schools, hospitals, casinos and office buildings. She has a proven sales track record as a "Top Producer" in a variety of fields, which created strong connections in hospitality, government sector, casinos, and healthcare. She won a national award from Lifetime Television for a local domestic violence information campaign among other accomplishments during her time in radio and television.

"I'm eager to bring my skills and network to a product I feel passionately about," states Cunningham. "When I found American Clay, it met all my criteria for the perfect job: a green product that's fun to sell, a company with great energy, a staff that's both enthusiastic and professional, and an opportunity to grow. As a sales person you rarely get a chance to make a difference - I can with American Clay."

American Clay launched their commercial single-coat Enjarre plaster in Spring 2008, and offers three original interior custom finishes, with 43 standard (and custom matching) colors, and unlimited textures. Their products are available in 45 states as well as Canada, Japan, New Zealand and Antigua.

OPEN HOUSE
On September 4th, from 3:00-7:00pm, American Clay is hosting an open house to celebrate one year in the company's facility that more than quadrupled its previous production space, and allowed for corporate offices, and designated rooms for Research & Development and for workshops, which are consistently held throughout the year. Staff will be on hand - including the newest member, Peggy Cunningham - to answer any questions or help with demonstrations and tours. The corporate offices themselves display a variety of American Clay plaster applications, including a thickly layered, finger-designed wall, multiple stencil examples, and samples of most all the standard colors in the conference room.

Location: 8724 Alameda Park Dr. NE, Ste. F, Albuquerque, NM 87113, 866-404-1634. Food and drinks will be provided.

Since the move, American Clay has had quite a good year:

* Introduction of its commercial product, ENJARRE
* Hosted Albuquerque Mayer Martin Chavez' press conference announcing the City's new task forces on 'green' city investments and purchasing
* New Mexico Community Capital, the state's sole double bottom-line investment organization, announced an investment in American Clay to accelerate the fast-growing company
* Been noted as a "Fastest Growing Public Company in NM" by New Mexico Business Weekly
* TV appearances on ABC-TV's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"; Planet Green's "Alter Eco"; HGTV shows "Living with Ed", "Greenovate" and "Designed to Sell"; E! Entt.'s "Green That House"; and Daisy Fuentes-hosted "EcoZone"
* Garnered print press in Popular Mechanics, Commercial Building Products, Sources + Design, Contract Magazine, Architectural Products, Walls & Ceilings, Eco-Structure, Natrual Home, GreenBuilder, Metropolitan Home, Sunset, Domino, BobVila.com, Sprig.com, HGTVpro.com, etc.
* Participated in top trade shows, Greenbuild, Dwell on Design, AltBuild Expo, and multiple speaking engagements across the U.S.

ABOUT AMERICAN CLAY ENTERPRISES, LLC:
American Clay produces award-winning, all-natural interior wall finishing products. Their Earth Plasters and the new commercial ENJARRE single coat plaster are a unique combination of clays, aggregates and natural pigments that offer builders and consumers a natural and elegant option. There is no off-gassing nor inherent waste on-site. Moreover, the plasters contain zero VOCs, are non-flammable, are mold resisting (without toxic fungicides), absorb odors, provide temperature and humidity buffering, repair/clean easily and come in recyclable packaging. American Clay is uniquely manufactured in and made of materials found in the U.S. American Clay Enterprises, Inc., is based in Albuquerque, NM, and its products are patent pending. The product and various workshops are available through their New Mexico office or through one of the growing number of retailers and distributors across the U.S. The website, www.americanclay.com, offers information on additional products, ordering, technical specifications, product application and additional resources and links.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:09 AM | Comments (0)

Sanuvox Offers Ultraviolet Lamps to Clean Indoor Air

Ultraviolet Lamps Clean Air Handling System, Creating a Greener Building and Energy Savings.

(PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- Sanuvox Technologies Inc. (Quebec, Canada) is now offering Ultraviolet (UV) CoilCleaners that kill germs and other bacteria in air handling and ventilation systems, thus eliminating the sick building syndrome. The UV CoilCleaners shine on the coil 24/7, destroying bacteria, viruses, mold, chemicals and its associated odors. The company utilizes ultraviolet technology to destroy biological and chemical contaminants - often related to indoor air conditioning systems. The ultraviolet wavelengths destroy these contaminants by changing the molecular structure of the contaminants through DNA sterilization and oxidation.

Sanuvox Technologies' experience and understanding has lead to a line of multi-patented residential & commercial purifiers that cannot be matched in quality and performance. The Lancet Medical Journal published the findings of McGill University scientists in which shining ultraviolet lamps manufactured by Sanuvox Technologies on indoor air conditioning coils, reduced overall sickness by 20 percent, reduced respiratory symptoms by 40 percent and resulted in a 99 percent reduction of microbial and endotoxin concentrations on irradiated surfaces within the ventilation system.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. National Homeland Security Research Center (NHSRC) reported positive results after testing Sanuvox's UV Bio-Wall Air Purifier. Installed into a ventilation system, the Sanuvox air purifier achieved a more than 99 percent destruction of two dangerous strains of a bacterium and a virus and 93 percent destruction of a certain bacterial spore.

The newly released 2008 ASHRAE Hand Book now has a chapter on UV Lamp Systems which goes on to detail the different applications UV systems can be used in.

These innovative technologies qualify for LEED certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. Such certification demonstrates that the building project meets the highest green building and performance measures.

The indoor air conditioning coil's height, width and thickness is measured. By inputting all of this information into a Sanuvox computer program, they are able to determine the number of UV Coil Clean units that would be required for the system as well as the owner's return on investment. Customers can save up to $10,000 in coil-cleaning costs, and then there are the energy savings.

For more information contact Aaron Engel at Sanuvox Technologies Inc, 146 Barr St., Saint-Laurent, Quebec, Canada, H4T 1Y4; visit http://www.sanuvox.com/, call 1-888-726-8869, or email aengel @ sanuvox.com

By Michael Maynard

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:09 AM | Comments (0)

Greenblock ICF Wall Systems…Hurricane Protection Along the Gulf Coast

Insulated Concrete Form wall systems ideal for safe, strong and energy efficient residential and commercial construction.

Mobile, AL (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- Greenblock Worldwide Corporation (www.greenblock.com), a leader and pioneer in the insulated concrete form (ICF) industry, has announced that they have begun marketing their ICF products and installation services throughout the Southeastern Gulf States. With their roots in Europe, Greenblock has been promoting the use of their ICFs as a disaster resistant, energy efficient alternative to stick frame and concrete block construction for the last forty years.

"The benefits of ICF construction here along the Gulf Coast are many," says Herb Murphy, new Alabama-based Territory Manager for Greenblock. "ICF walls create structures that can withstand hurricane and tornado force winds. And the high R-value of the walls will save home and building owners a considerable amount of money on their energy bills. Bottom line is ICFs are a better way to build in this area and I'm looking forward to introducing Greenblock to the building community here," continued Murphy.

Insulated concrete forms are a 'stay-in-place' insulated wall forming system made of three primary components; high R-value expanded polystyrene foam, rigid plastic ties and steel-reinforced poured concrete. The use of ICF's began more than a half century ago and is continuing to gain popularity throughout the construction industry - especially now because of their disaster resistant, energy efficient and sustainable attributes.

The bulk of a building's environmental footprint is caused by the energy consumed in the heating and cooling of the structure over its lifetime. The high performance thermal envelope provided by Greenblock ICF construction can offer significant contribution towards reducing the energy consumption needed to control the interior climate of the structure. Additionally, the lack of air infiltration and the resistance to moisture through the exterior walls eliminates the growth of mold and pests penetration thus creating a healthy indoor environment for occupants.

Projects seeking a green certification from the United States Green Building Council, NAHB or Green Building Initiative, benefit from involving Greenblock ICFs with their project. Greenblock insulated concrete forms are:

* Energy Efficient

The expandable polystyrene foam in a Greenblock wall provides a consistent R-24 Thermal Resistance over the life of the product. Coupled with the thermal mass characteristics of concrete, as well as the lack of air infiltration in an ICF wall, the Greenblock system provides a wall comparable to that of an R-50 wood-framed or CMU wall. ICF structures are up to 70% cheaper to heat and 50% cheaper to cool than traditional wood frame or concrete block construction.

* Sound Resistant

Structures using Greenblock achieve documented levels of STC (Sound Transmission Classifications) 50 (inaudible) or higher. Wood frame and CMU structures are typically rated an average STC 25, meaning people inside of the structure can hear and understand voices outside the structure. Outside noise such as traffic, airplanes, construction and even lawnmowers and leaf blowers are greatly reduced, making the structure a quiet, peaceful sanctuary.

* Strong and Safe

Greenblock structures are much stronger than traditional building methods and materials. They provide exceptional protection from severe forces of nature, such as hurricanes and tornados. Greenblock foundation walls resist cracking and buckling up to five times better than concrete block walls. Greenblock walls are built with steel-reinforced concrete and fire-resisting expanded polystyrene foam, and they have a 2 to 4 hour fire rating depending on which product is used. ICF structures also improve indoor air quality by eliminating the holes and crevices that can trap moisture and foster mold and mildew growth.

* Environmentally Friendly

The decision to construct with Greenblock ICFs is an environmentally responsible choice. Buildings constructed with ICFs significantly reduce the negative impact on the environment through sustainable site-planning, energy-efficiency, lower HVAC requirements and improved indoor air quality.(Builders can earn up to 20 LEED points). Greenblock ICFs are non-toxic; using no CFCs, HCFCs or formaldehydes, the absence of "off-gassing" eliminates the possibility of air pollution or ozone depletion.

About Greenblock, Inc.:
Greenblock's (www.greenblock.com) roots originated in Europe over 30 years ago and moved to the United States and Canada in the late 1980's. With several integral modifications from the time of its inception, today's Greenblock continues to be the superior choice for high efficiency wall systems, noted for outstanding design and ease of use. Over the years, a significant number of structures have been built with Greenblock. Projects that range from stem walls, basements, single and multi-story residences, apartments, condominiums, schools, hospitals, hotels, towers and even swimming pools. Government agencies and utility companies are now recognizing the superior features of insulated form-built structures and are beginning to recommend its use for environmental and energy conservation benefits.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:08 AM | Comments (0)

NYC Construction/Remodeling Firm MyHome LLC Warns Consumers About Granite Radiation Exposure

NYC construction company, MyHome LLC warns of the radon dangers in certain granite countertops and offers safe and sustainable solutions for homeowners wanting to reduce the health risks associated with this material.

New York, NY (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- MyHome LLC (http://myhomeus.com), the full service NYC construction and renovation company, announced today its new initiative to educate homeowners about the possible risks associated with granite countertops for NYC kitchens and bathrooms. As part of their campaign, MyHome will also be spreading awareness of safe alternatives that minimize the health concerns associated with granite, such as the possible risk of lung cancer caused by radioactive gases like radon.

"Some granite countertops, particularly those mined from quarries in South America and Africa, emit possibly dangerous levels of radon and radiation," says MyHome President Mayan Metzler. "And given the way granite has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, there could be thousands of people in the tri-state area being exposed to cancer-causing radiation within their own homes every day. While it is unlikely that all of these granite pieces are emitting dangerous levels of radiation--we feel like homeowners should decide for themselves whether or not to take risks they can easily avoid."

Radiation exposure, is, of course, a fact of daily life: background radiation from outer space, the earth itself, X-rays and certain types of appliances like smoke detectors all contribute to daily exposure. But excess radiation levels can lead to lung cancer. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency suggests you test your home for radon gas using a DIY kit or a reliable contractor; if levels are in excess of 4 picocuries per liter of air, the government organization suggests you take action to reduce your exposure.

Not all varieties of granite are hazardous. The only way to tell whether the stones you've chosen for your home are contaminated is to have them tested--preferably before you purchase and install the slabs. This process can add extra charges to your home improvement costs and delay construction should the slabs prove to be contaminated and need to be replaced.

"Why take the chance when there are many attractive--and safe--alternatives that are also made of sustainable, eco-friendly materials?" asks MyHome CEO Yoel Piotraut. "With all of the other environmental dangers facing the world today, I think most homeowners would feel satisfied minimizing any variables that might affect their overall health."

Further, there are many attractive alternatives for homeowners seeking anything from luxury to budget countertops. Concrete, engineered stone, and solid surfaces, such as Caesarstone offer both safety and durability. In addition, wood or butcher's block (including sustainable bamboo), stainless steel, glass, recycled glass counters such as Ice Stone and Richlite, ceramic tile, and copper can also give homeowners some piece of mind.

"For those homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint, green products like IceStone, Richlite, Caesarstone, and bamboo, are also derived from sustainable materials that actually help reduce some of atmospheric toxins created by mass production," says Metzler. "In fact, we created the MyHome Green section of our website (http://myhomeus.com) to help clients find a full range of green products, such as low-VOC paints and others, that further reduce the chances of air contamination."

"It's imperative that homeowners become more aware of the products they take into their homes," adds Piotraut. "While picking a kitchen countertop might not seem like a life and death decision at the time, not knowing where it comes from and how it is made can be problematic--especially since consumers spend years, if not decades--with the products they bring into their lives."

For more information about how you can get your granite countertops tested for rayon or advice about which countertop alternative is right for your home, call MyHome at 800-730-0148 or visit them online at http://www.myhomeus.com.

About MyHome

MyHome is a full-service home improvement provider focused on client relations with showrooms in Manhattan, Westchester, & New Jersey. A corporate leader in delivering world-class service for the past ten years, MyHome specializes in designing, managing, building, and coordinating every part of your building project. With recent media coverage from Forbes.com to NBC's "The Today Show" MyHome's development projects are getting noticed nationwide. For more information please visit to http://www.myhomeus.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:07 AM | Comments (0)

RidgeLogic Enters Partnership With AccuWeather.com®

Companies to Work Together to Provide Real-Time Access of Weather and News for Digital Signage Displays.

Buffalo, NY (PRWEB) August 26, 2008 -- RidgeLogic Development, a developer of digital signage software for single locations, has signed an agreement with AccuWeather.com, the World's Weather Authority®, to distribute real-time weather and news feeds to users of their SceneStudio digital signage software application.

AccuWeather.com offers highly localized, accurate, reliable, and quality-controlled weather forecasts for more than 2.7 million locations worldwide. Featuring animated Doppler radars, eye-catching videos and timely news, sports and unique health indices, AccuWeather.com content fits all popular display platforms, screen formats and delivery methods.

Using SceneStudio, real-time weather, news and health content from AccuWeather.com can be displayed in user-defined regions of an output display. "Adding weather, news and health content is a great practice because it increases the probability of getting your core message noticed by the intended audience," says Jack Boyczuk, President of RidgeLogic. "AccuWeather.com is also a brand people trust and respect and they provide visually appealing content that's optimized for use with digital signage."

"We're very pleased to be working with RidgeLogic because they are building a presence in a segment of the digital signage industry that offers room for enormous continued growth," says Scott Homan, Senior Meteorologist and Director of Out-of-Home Media at AccuWeather. "Lobby signage solutions for small and medium businesses represent a major opportunity and we look forward to helping RidgeLogic build their business in this market segment as the industry matures."

About RidgeLogic
RidgeLogic Development provides digital signage software applications, content design and programming services to meet the specific needs of end users, resellers and OEM partners. RidgeLogic is committed to allowing its consumers to utilize non-technical personnel to create or edit content and schedule it for playback, resulting in a digital signage solution that stays fresh and relevant.

For more information on RidgeLogic Development visit: http://www.RidgeLogic.com.

About AccuWeather, Inc. and AccuWeather.com
AccuWeather, The World's Weather Authority®, presents accurate, localized, branded forecasts and severe weather bulletins to over 110 million Americans each day via the Internet, mobile devices and IPTV, through the airwaves, in print and on digital signage. The 113 meteorologists at AccuWeather deliver a portfolio of customized products and services to media, business, government, and institutions, and inform millions of visitors worldwide through the free AccuWeather.com website. AccuWeather also provides content onto more than 20,000 third-party Internet sites, including CNN Interactive, ABC's owned and operated stations, The Washington Post and The New York Times. Visit http://www.accuweather.com for more information.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:07 AM | Comments (0)

Callis Communications Named to Inc. 5000's List of Fastest Growing Companies

Gulf Coast area VOIP Provider Ranked 32nd of Top 100 Telecommunications Companies.

Mobile, AL (PRWEB) August 26, 2008 -- Callis Communications, a leading regional provider of hosted telephony and managed Voice-over-IP (VoIP) services for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), was included in the 2008 Inc. 5000 List of fastest growing private companies. The company also was recognized as #32 among Telecommunications Companies.

The Inc. 5000 is an expansion of the Inc. 500, which Inc. introduced in 1982. The Inc. 5000 includes the Inc. 500 but digs deeper to offer the most comprehensive look ever at the entrepreneurial engine driving the U.S.

"We've grown over 300% in the last 3 years and have a 99% customer retention rate," said Dean Parker president and CEO of Callis. "We are proud to be recognized by Inc., and will carry this momentum forward as we expand into Florida and Mississippi." See the Inc. 5000 Callis summary here.

Callis's growth is gathering national attention. Recently, TelephonyOnline, TMCnet, and Smallbiztechnology.com highlighted Callis' "green" solutions with their stories about White-Spunner Construction's use of Callis' 802.3af technology to power all phones from a central source to reduce power consumption by 50%. To get the whole story, go here for the Telephony article, here for TMC.net, or here for the Smallbiztechnology, coverage.

About Callis:
Callis Communications, based in Mobile, Alabama, is a leading facilities-based Competitive Local Exchange Carrier and ISP providing hosted IP solutions to small and medium-sized companies in key southeast business markets. Its Voicepath suite of fully-managed IP applications includes hosted PBX, local and long distance service, data backup, server collocation, and domain/email/website hosting, all backed by a highly-reliable, redundant network and its innovative 5-1-1 service for 24x7 customer support. For additional information, visit www.mycallis.com or call 251-662-8300.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:06 AM | Comments (0)

Cahaba Media Group Honored by Inc. Magazine as One of America's Fastest Growing Private Companies

Cahaba Media Group ranks No. 2,977 on the 2008 Inc. 5000 with a three-year sales growth of 120 percent.

New York, NY (PRWEB) August 26, 2008 -- Inc. has ranked Cahaba Media Group No. 2,977 on its annual ranking of the 5,000 fastest-growing private companies in the country. The list is the most comprehensive look at the most important segment of the economy - America's independent-minded entrepreneurs. Cahaba Media Group ranked No. 41 among companies in the media industry and third among magazine publishers.

"I'm really thrilled and proud of our team for achieving this honor," says Cahaba Media Group President and Founder Wally Evans. "Our goal is to have the best publishing company in the Southeast, and this recognition proves that our formula of combining solid core values and an entrepreneurial spirit with the best people and a great business model works."

In 2002, Evans sought to start a small business with strong values and a relaxed company culture before he knew exactly what the business would be. "If you have the right values, people and processes in place and you understand how to read an income statement and balance sheet, you can manage just about any business," he says.

Cahaba Media Group is honored for the second straight year on the prestigious Inc. 5000 list. With offices in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa, the company publishes trade magazines, websites, e-newsletters and other media for the industrial and construction markets.

Cahaba Media Group's titles, Pumps & Systems and Construction Business Owner, serve fast-growing industries - specifically water, oil and gas, power transmission, chemicals and construction.

Pumps & Systems (www.pump-zone.com), "The Magazine for Pump Users Worldwide," is the voice of the pump and rotating equipment industry. It delivers relevant industry news coverage and powerful technical information to more than 40,500 BPA-qualified managers, engineers, operators and maintenance professionals worldwide. Pumps & Systems is read in 113 countries, reaching six continents.

Launched August 2004, Construction Business Owner (www.constructionbusinessowner.com) is "The Business Management Magazine for Contractors." From its inception, it was designed to be a different kind of construction magazine, filling a need in the construction industry for the kind of business management knowledge that is of real value to the owners of small to midsized construction companies. With a BPA-qualified circulation of more than 40,000 construction company owners, presidents and managers, Construction Business Owner provides a type of real-world business management education that is not found in other construction magazines and is designed to help owners and managers of small construction companies run their businesses better.

About Inc. 5000
The 5,000 companies that made the list reported aggregate revenue of $185 billion and median three-year growth of 147 percent. Most important, the 2008 Inc. 5000 companies were engines of job growth, having created more than 826,033 jobs since those companies were founded. Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and a list of the fastest-growing companies that can be sorted by industry and region can be found at www.inc5000.com.

The 2008 Inc. 5000 list measures revenue growth from 2004 through 2007. To qualify, companies must be U.S.-based and privately held, for profit, independent - not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies - as of December 31, 2007, and have had at least $200,000 in revenue in 2004, and $2 million in 2007.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:05 AM | Comments (0)

Cleveland Industrial Capital LLC, Affiliate of Commercial and Industrial Real Estate Investment Firm, Cohen Asset Management Inc. Completes Sales of Industrial Property

Cleveland Industrial Capital LLC, an affiliate of commercial and industrial real estate investment firm Cohen Asset Management, Inc., closed on the sale of 30901 Carter Street, an approximate 88,000 square-foot industrial building located in Solon, Ohio on July 25, 2008.

Solon, Ohio (PRWEB) August 26, 2008 -- Cleveland Industrial Capital LLC, an affiliate of commercial and industrial real estate investment firm Cohen Asset Management, Inc., closed on the sale of 30901 Carter Street, an approximate 88,000 square-foot industrial building located in Solon, Ohio, roughly 18 miles southeast of Cleveland on July 25, 2008. This asset was acquired in November 1998 as one of 15 properties purchased by American Industrial Capital LLC during the years of 1997 - 2007.

The multi-tenant single-story warehouse distribution facility is situated on approximately 5.43 acres. Commercial and industrial real estate investment firm Cohen Asset Management, Inc. elected to sell this asset as Cleveland is no longer a Target Market in which the company is focusing its efforts. The disposition represents the final asset within the syndicated holdings of American Industrial Capital LLC, an entity the company intends to close out in 2008.

About Cohen™
Cohen Asset Management, Inc.,("CAM"), is a private commercial and industrial real estate investment firm. The firm's relationships extend to high net worth individuals, institutional investors and domestic business entities. Commercial and industrial real estate investment firm Cohen Asset Management, Inc. is an active operator and investor of real estate assets and has a well-established reputation as a value-added investor focusing on commercial and industrial real estate opportunities that are inefficiently priced due to a variety of circumstances such as vacancies, rollover risk, sub-optimal management, inefficient current use, deferred maintenance, long-term undervalued leases or other unfavorable property and market conditions.

Forward looking Statement
Except for the historical facts, the statements in this press release regarding CAM's business activities are forward-looking statements based on the beliefs of, assumptions made by, and information currently available to us about known and unknown risks, trends, uncertainties and factors that are beyond our control or ability to predict. Although we believe that our assumptions are reasonable, they are not guarantees of future performance and some will inevitably prove to be incorrect. As a result, our actual future results can be expected to differ from our expectations, and those differences may be material. Accordingly, investors should use caution in relying on past forward-looking statements to anticipate future results or trends. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:05 AM | Comments (0)

U.S. CAD™ Participates in Third Annual Honolulu Canstruction® Event to Raise Canned Goods for Hawaii Foodbank

Aiea Team creates 'green design' structure using tuna cans and same Autodesk® Software that designs real buildings.

Honolulu, HI (PRWEB) August 26, 2008 -- U.S. CAD, Hawaii and the Western U.S.'s largest provider of computer-aided design (CAD) services and products, participated in the Third Annual Honolulu Canstruction® Design/Build Competition to raise canned goods for the Hawaii Food Bank on Saturday, Aug. 23, at the Pearlridge Center, Uptown. A national community service program created by the Society for Design Administration on behalf of the design and construction industry, Canstruction is presented in Hawaii by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Honolulu Chapter with additional local sponsorship. Each year, the event raises some 40,000 pounds of canned goods for Hawaii's hungry.

"With its goal of ending hunger 'one can at a time,' Canstruction is a terrific way for U.S. CAD, along with other area design and construction organizations, to help raise public awareness for Hawaii's hungry and generate a significant amount of canned food donations - all while doing what we do best: designing and building," said Yoshi Honda, U.S. CAD Director of Operations for Hawaii. "Saturday's 'competition' was a lot of fun, and our choice to build the U.S. CAD 'Sustainable by Design' logo using cans of tuna had special significance, since sustainable or 'green' design and tuna fish are both vital to the Aloha state."

Competing in shifts, the team from U.S. CAD's Aiea office created a six-foot-high, seven-foot-wide structure of the company's "Sustainable by Design" logo using some 4,000 cans of tuna (four different types) and 600 bottles of water. Earlier this week, several of the U.S. CAD team members joined colleagues from another company, Next Design, for a live, pre-Canstruction demonstration on the KGMB Morning Show.

The software used to create the prototype and detail drawings for U.S. CAD's structure included Autodesk Inventor 2009, AutoCAD® 2009 and Autodesk 3ds MAX Design 2009 - all of which are used in the building design industry, and all of which U.S. CAD provides to its customers.

As Hawaii's only authorized Autodesk® solutions reseller, U.S. CAD knows a thing or two about sustainable design and building. Formerly Pacific CADD Services in Hawaii, U.S. CAD provides computer-aided design services, training and products, including the latest Autodesk technologies, to Hawaii's growing civil, mechanical and architectural design, building-engineering and geospatial industries, as well as government agencies.

About Canstruction:
According to the AIA Honolulu Chapter website, "Canstruction combines the competitive spirit of a design/build competition with a unique way to help feed hungry people. Competing teams, led by architects and engineers, showcase their talents by designing giant sculptures made entirely out of canned foods."

The canned-food structures are limited to a footprint of eight feet by eight feet, as well as a height of eight feet. Structurally self-supporting, the only materials allowed 1/4-inch leveling, cardboard, tape, rubber bands, wire and the donated food itself.

Awards determined by a jury of prominent island architects, public servants and other community members are presented in categories including Jurors' Favorite, Structural Ingenuity, Best Use of Labels and Best Meal. The public also can vote, with one donated can of food equaling one vote. The structure that receives the most public votes during the two-week exhibition of the structures (which runs through Sept. 7) will receive the People's Choice Award. At the end of the exhibition, all of the food used in the structures, as well as the public's canned food "votes," will be donated to the Hawaii Foodbank. Members of the public are encouraged to visit the exhibition at the Pearlridge Center, Uptown and vote their conscience.

About U.S. CAD:
Based in Costa Mesa, Calif., with offices in Aiea, Hawaii, U.S. CAD, Inc. (formerly Pacific CADD Services in Hawaii) has grown to be the largest Autodesk reseller in Hawaii and the Western U.S., with more than 65 employees supporting customers in the full spectrum of Autodesk technologies. U.S. CAD employs nearly 30 Technical Specialists and adds an additional 25 Autodesk Consultants through its strategic partner K-TEK Solutions, based in Northern California. With this technical bench strength of over 50 individuals, U.S. CAD's expertise is sought after by an impressive array of companies who value U.S. CAD's unique mix of technology implementation, project assessment, process consulting, knowledge assessment, project mentoring, flexible training options, and technical support services. U.S. CAD has grown rapidly due, in part, to its commitment to respecting the needs of its business partners and honestly communicating how complex technologies are successfully implemented, and to delivering solutions with the highest level of integrity.

To find out what makes U.S. CAD unique and all the ways it helps its customers "Achieve More!" go to http://www.uscad.com.

U.S. CAD is a trademark of U.S. CAD, Inc. Autodesk and the Autodesk logo are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:05 AM | Comments (0)

The Villages Resident Survey Reveals Increased Need for Gyms for Active Adults

Resident Survey Highlights Active, Lifestyle, Opportunity for Gyms, Health Clubs to Expand

THE VILLAGES, Fla. (Business Wire EON/PRWEB ) August 26, 2008 -- The Villages, the largest single site residential development in the U.S., released results of the annual resident survey illustrating shifting fitness and health trends among local baby boomer and active adults. The survey reveals more than 60 percent of residents exercise and play sports more than once a week. As a result, regular exercise has become a quality-of-life issue for residents as they have more time to indulge in their own fitness passions and have adopted exercise as part of their lifestyle.

"Boomers were the first generation that grew up exercising at gyms, and the first that expects, indeed demands, that they be able to exercise into their 70's and 80’s. Boomers are changing the notion of traditional retirement and physical fitness,” said John M. Crossman, CCIM, president of Crossman & Company and retail spokesperson for The Villages. “Our residents are blowing away the myth about how active retirees are and it’s not simply a walk around the park, it’s joining teams and competing.”

Baby boomers are the fastest-growing segment of the fitness population today. The increase has been the defining change in the fitness industry over the past 15 years. Gym owners, equipment developers and business professionals concerned with profitability in the fitness industry, should be doing everything they can to attract the baby boom generation.

Results are based on the responses of more than 11,000 survey participants, collected in March 2008. They reflect the demographic and geographic distribution of the development’s adult population.

About The Villages/Crossman & Company

Crossman & Company handles the retail leasing for The Villages, FL including the town centers of “Lake Sumter Landing”, “Spanish Springs”, plus the “Buffalo Ridge” and “Antrim Dells” shopping centers. The Villages is the largest single-site mixed-use real estate development in the U.S. and currently home to major retail and restaurant tenants including: Publix, Fresh Market, Wal-Mart, McDonald’s, Barnes & Noble, Belk, Bealls, Bonefish Grill, Panera Bread, Starbucks, Sweet Bay, TGI Friday’s, Chico’s, Ruby Tuesday’s, Target, Outback, Carrabas, Bass, Izod, JoS. A. Bank and Red Lobster.

For more information please visit www.thevillagescommercialproperty.com, or call 352-753-6654.

MULTIMEDIA GALLERY

http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=5763113

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:03 AM | Comments (0)

Study Finds Most Online Home Seekers Searching Through Incomplete and Inaccurate Listings

Representative, Three-Market Survey Shows Popular Real Estate Search Engines Don't List Many Homes Available for Sale, With Comprehensiveness as Low as Eight Percent

SAN FRANCISCO (Business Wire EON/PRWEB ) August 26, 2008 -- A real estate industry study released today shows that most popular consumer real estate search engines, including Trulia, Zillow, Google and Yahoo!, offer home seekers only a small fraction of the homes actually available on the market - and that many of the listings are inaccurate or out of date. Real estate searches on these popular sites in three sample markets -- Miami, Dallas and San Diego -- failed to provide users with as much as 92 percent of available listings in their home searches.

The study, commissioned by Roost.com and conducted by the WAV Group, points out the stark contrasts between different online property search methods available today and concluded that the most accurate source of listing information is the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS). The WAV Group specifically researched how popular consumer real estate search sites including Trulia, Google and Yahoo!, among others -- which aggregate listings from a variety of third-party sources -- stack up to sites like Roost.com, which are enabled by the MLS. The MLS is the real estate industry standard database for sharing information on local homes for sale and is available only to licensed real estate agents and brokers; all the listings on the MLS are derived from local agents and brokers. To serve the needs of agents wishing to make MLS property search available to consumers, MLS boards nationwide have deployed a standard called Internet Data Exchange, or IDX.

The three cities were chosen as the best sample markets to test the IDX model versus aggregator models. Roost.com, through unique relationships with real estate brokers and local MLS boards, can also offer IDX data to consumers across the nation. In fact, Roost is the only search engine online today that offers consumers access to all MLS data in covered markets as well as for sale by owner and new construction listings.

Top-line findings in the detailed study showed some aggregator sites with accuracy rates as low as eight percent. In Dallas, for instance, Google fared the best among the aggregators for listing accuracy by displaying 56 out of 81 possible listings, or 69 percent accuracy. In San Diego, Yahoo! was missing 70 out of the 76 listings found in the MLS, or listing accuracy of just eight percent. Trulia and Zillow also had mixed results from city to city. In Dallas and Miami, they both displayed about 50 percent of the listings.

By contrast, researchers established that searchable housing information on IDX-powered broker websites, like Roost.com, is the most accurate public home search available - usually 96 percent to 98 percent accurate. The small percentage of differences occurs because IDX data is typically refreshed once a day. Any home that gets sold, newly listed, expired, or has had a price change gets updated within 24 hours.

In each market, “accuracy” was defined as a percentage of listings on a site that matched the MLS.

“This study is important because it shows that many people looking for their dream home have had much of their time wasted on having to search through screen after screen of bad data. It really is a case of buyer beware,” said Alex Chang, CEO of Roost. “Roost.com users, on the other hand, can be confident that they're seeing the best, most up-to-date listings available. It's very simple - access to accurate data arms you with the information you need for the biggest purchase you'll ever make. When you're ready to take that first step toward buying a home, we're now more confident than ever that Roost.com is the site to trust.”

ABOUT THE STUDY

The study evaluated real estate listings for single family homes in three cities, Dallas, Miami and San Diego, and compared three methods of acquiring property search information: results provided by local Realtors; information from Internet Data Exchange-powered MLS Web sites; and listings from advertising-driven Web sites including Trulia, Google, Yahoo! and others.

Data was normalized across all the subject sites to provide an “apples to apples” comparison. The search criteria for all sites were identical: single family residential homes for sale and homes with exactly three bedrooms and exactly two bathrooms. The search was performed on each site on the same day and in as short amount of time as possible, closely mirroring typical consumer behavior. Price points for home searches were identical across all sites as well: Dallas, $250,000-300,000; Miami: $450,000-500,000; and San Diego, $300,000-350,000. These criteria were selected to narrow the study to a statistically significant and manageable sampling of homes for sale within each market. At the time of the study, there were more than 35,000 homes for sale in the sample cities.

“We were careful to tease apart the data, to be sure we were making an apples-to-apples comparison of the listings in these markets,” said Victor Lund, founding partner of WAV Group. “The data here clearly show, as they did in a national study we conducted earlier this year, that a site based on information from a local MLS will give consumers a more accurate picture of what's available in a local market. In comparison to IDX-powered Web sites like Roost or the MLS listings in Dallas, Miami or San Diego, sites like Google, Yahoo!, Trulia and Zillow are still struggling to collect a comparable, comprehensive data set of accurate listings.”

HOW ROOST WORKS

Roost is a blazing-fast search engine that sits atop a network of IDX, or Internet Data Exchange, sites. IDX is the national data sharing standard among all real estate brokers. Most popular real estate search sites are listing aggregators, and unlike IDX sites powered by the MLS, these sites get their listings for properties for sale from a variety of sources including brokers, magazine publishers, newspapers, other software companies, and sometimes, even each other. The result is often inaccurate and incomplete data, leading to frustration for home buyers. With Roost, users can create custom search profiles with simple filtering controls to sort by price range, square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, neighborhood, school district, new or resale properties and more - even which homes have granite countertops or pools.

Additionally, Roost's platform and traffic-sharing approach with brokers helps agents form new connections with potential clients, serving as an important ally for real estate agents struggling to stay afloat in one of the most difficult housing markets in history.

Roost recently announced the launch of its service in San Francisco, Seattle and New England and earned the Innovator Award for Most Innovative Technology from Inman News, the leading source of independent real estate news and opinion for the industry.

About Roost, Inc.

Roost is an innovative online real estate platform that combines a network of individual real estate broker Web sites with a comprehensive search engine. Roost offers new search technology, an intuitive, visual interface and the most comprehensive property listings to help users find all homes for sale and find them fast. The company works collaboratively with Multiple Listing Service (MLS) boards and real estate brokers in each region to provide up-to-date, accurate data. Roost.com currently lists homes and condos for sale in thousands of other markets across the nation including Chicago, Phoenix, Houston, Miami, Atlanta, Boston, St. Louis, Denver, Philadelphia, Portland, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Texas, Virginia, and more, ensuring the results for each local search are complete. Roost was awarded the 2008 Innovator Award for Most Innovative Technology from Inman News, the leading source of independent real estate news and opinion for the industry. Founded in 2007, Roost.com is based in San Francisco, Calif. To start your home search, visit http://www.roost.com.

EDITORS NOTE: For a copy of the WAV Group study, please contact Elizabeth Govea at (415) 694-6718. A downloadable graphic of listing accuracy by market is available at: http://blog.roost.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/online-accuracy-miami -dallas-san-diego.jpg (Due to its length, this URL may need to be copied/pasted into your Internet browser's address field. Remove the extra space if one exists.)

Release Summary:

A real estate industry study released today shows that most popular consumer real estate search engines, including Trulia, Zillow, Google and Yahoo!, offer home seekers only a small fraction of the homes actually available on the market - and that many of the listings are inaccurate or out of date. Real estate searches on these popular sites in three sample markets -- Miami, Dallas and San Diego -- failed to provide users with as much as 92 percent of available listings in their home searches.

Keyword Tags:

condos for sale, condos sale, homes for sale, online real estate, properties for sale, properties sale, real estate for sale, real estate market, real estate online, real estate search, real estate search engines, search real estate

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:02 AM | Comments (0)

Smarter Security Systems Releases Next-Generation Mobile Surveillance System

SmarterSentry™ is even more secure and rugged.

Austin, TX (PRWEB) August 26, 2008 -- Smarter Security Systems, provider of intelligent entrance control and outdoor security solutions, today announced the release of its second-generation SmarterSentry mobile surveillance system. The changes made enhance the video coverage and increase ruggedness to improve security at remote or temporary locations. The first of the new units is shipping to a customer this week.

"SmarterSentry uniquely addresses the needs many organizations have for surveillance to protect either mobile or remote outdoor assets," said Mark Ellsworth, Vice President of Sales for Smarter Security Systems. "With the powerful cameras, the on-board SmarterDVR™ delivering real-time video and threat assessment, and a highly reliable, 30-day power supply based on propane, SmarterSentry is a compelling mobile solution to organizations not willing or able to invest fixed security resources at a location."

Many changes were made to SmarterSentry to enhance its surveillance capabilities. The mast height was extended to 33 feet, putting the Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) cameras about 35 feet off the ground. Instead of one PTZ camera, there are now two mounted atop this mast (to go along with two fixed cameras lower on the mast), and the improved cameras have a 27x optical/12x digital zoom and an active infrared range of 300 feet for night vision. These changes enable the PTZ cameras to see greater detail at much longer distances. For stability of the camera images at this height, four guy wires were added that connect the top of the mast to four outriggers on each corner of the trailer.

The SmarterDVR is now secured by two locks in a steel cabinet and is mounted atop vibration isolators to protect the computer while SmarterSentry is being towed. A lockable cabinet was added to the trailer to enable secure storage of the cameras and other equipment when not in use. The new trailer body is completely made of heavy-guage steel with welded construction for long-term durability. With the option for a re-moveable trailer hitch and a new spare tire, SmarterSentry is more secure when parked and more safe when traveling down the road.

SmarterSentry is ideal for law enforcement and border patrol efforts where areas without power or easy internet connections need to be watched for often short periods of time. This might include large outdoor events, disaster sites, or public investigation work. Industries with expensive equipment at risk outdoors for short-term operations, such as construction and oil and gas, would also benefit from the protection of SmarterSentry. For more information, please visit http://www.smartersecurity.com/outdoor/smartersentry/index.html

About Smarter Security Systems, Ltd.:
Smarter Security Systems provides extremely intelligent entrance control and outdoor security products to help organizations protect their people and assets in a world of increasing threats. Since 1992, Smarter Security has offered Fastlane turnstiles, the most elegant and intelligent optical turnstiles available, which protect thousands of commercial and governmental lobbies on 6 continents. Smarter Security's comprehensive line of outdoor security products consists of remote surveillance and perimeter protection solutions, including SmarterSentry, a complete mobile surveillance system. For more information, please visit www.smartersecurity.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:02 AM | Comments (0)

Jancik Arts International Unveils Innovative Art Glass Technique at HD Boutique Show in Miami

Faux Casted Glass Radiates Contemporary Feel, at Affordable Cost ~ Jancik Arts International (JAI), creators of award-winning stained glass ceiling domes for the hospitality industry, will introduce a new technique in glass art at the HD Boutique Expo & Conference in Miami Beach, September 17 and 18, 2008. Faux casted glass offers an ultra contemporary look, requires minimal lighting and costs less than authentic casted glass with a shorter production time.

Atlanta, GA and Ocala, FL (PRWEB) August 25, 2008 -- Jancik Arts International (JAI), creators of award-winning stained glass ceiling domes for the hospitality industry, will introduce a new technique in glass art at the HD Boutique Expo & Conference in Miami Beach, September 17 and 18, 2008. Faux casted glass offers an ultra contemporary look, requires minimal lighting and costs less than authentic casted glass with a shorter production time.

During the show, JAI will give away a 12" x 18" x 1/2" thick starfire crystal glass panel in a prize drawing. Stop by the JAI booth #535 to see samples of this brilliant new application and to register for the prize.

JAI is among the first company to introduce faux casted glass to the market. "I am really excited about offering faux casted glass to our clients," said JAI Chief Designer, Angelique Jackson. "The process is very unique - It has a relief feel to it and the design can be as intricate or as simple as you desire. The design is literally brought to life by using edged lighting, which causes the design to radiate from within."

Faux casted glass is perfect for interior spaces, divider screens and booth dividers in lobbies and restaurants and other low lit areas requiring just the right touch of glass. Designs can be custom crafted to meet the requirements of the interior environment.

In addition to faux casted glass, JAI will showcase their stained glass ceiling domes, for which they are best known. JAI's award-winning domes grace the atriums of 20 luxury cruise ships, the most recent being The Ruby, which sets sail in October. JAI domes are also found in private residences and commercial environments across the globe.

To view some of JAI's world class creations: http://jancikarts.com/promo_cd/promo_slide.html

In the booth, show attendees can view a small scale model of one of JAI's masterful ceiling domes created for the Rafiee residence. This exquisite dome is reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright work. JAI will also have a small scale 18-inch curved panel to demonstrate authentic stained glass in the booth.

About Jancik Arts International (JAI), Inc.
Since 1978, Jancik Arts International, Inc. (JAI) has emerged as a leader in custom design, production, and installation of interior vertical glass and stained glass dome structures for world-renowned travel, leisure and residential environments.

JAI custom designs range from contemporary to classic and include ceiling domes, vertical flat glass and magnificent chandeliers. Each design is one of a kind and registered with the Library of Congress.

To view some of JAI's world class creations: http://jancikarts.com/promo_cd/promo_slide.html

Jancik Arts has designed and produced amazing pieces of stained glass artwork for luxury properties in both commercial and high-end residential environments, particularly for the travel/hospitality and leisure/entertainment industries. Clients include: Epcot Center, Disney World (Orlando, Fla.); Princess Cruises (Italy, France and Japan); Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (Portugal); Mormon Temple, Latter-Day Saints (Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and Orlando, Fla.); U.S. Post Office (El Paso, Texas); Floridian Golf Course (Stuart, Fla.), among others.

Jancik Arts earned the International Award for Women in Design and the Design Journal's Platinum Award for Design Excellence. The company has been featured in publications such as Architectural Digest, Southern Living, and Glass Craftsman. JAI is a member of NEWH (Network of Executive Women in the Hospitality Industry) and SGAA (Stained Glass Association of America).

For more information, please visit the website at www.jancikarts.com or call 1-800-254-1593.

Editorial Contact:
Elizabeth Fairleigh
thE Connection, Inc.
404.874.4562
Elizabeth@EConnectionPR.com
www.Elizabeth@EconnectionPR.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:01 AM | Comments (0)

LifeStyle Builders & Developers Hires Karen Britt as a New Sales Consultant at Crimson Crest in Chesterfield County

LifeStyle Builders and Developers, Inc. is proud to announce the hiring of Karen Britt with Market Square Realty, LLC as Sales Consultant in Crimson Crest, a new home community in Chesterfield County, a suburb of Richmond Virginia, from the low $300's.

Richmond, VA (PRWEB) August 25, 2008 -- LifeStyle Builders and Developers, Inc. is proud to announce the hiring of Karen Britt with Market Square Realty, LLC as Sales Consultant in Crimson Crest, a new home community in Chesterfield County from the low $300's.

"We are lucky to have someone of Karen's background and expertise on board," said Ed Melton, sales manager of LifeStyle Builders. "Karen is a perfect fit for the community, and exemplifies the company's high standards of professionalism and dedication to customer service."

Ms. Britt has been a REALTOR® for seven years, with extensive experience in new home sales as well as resale properties. She specializes in working with military families relocating to and out of the Richmond market. Ms. Britt currently lives in the Chester area with her family and two dogs. She is an active member of the Richmond REALTOR® Association and the Homebuilders Association of Richmond.

Crimson Crest is a new home community located in Chesterfield County. Ideally located off Woodpecker Road, Crimson Crest offers the much sought-after ideal of living in the country with the added value of being close to all of the conveniences of the city. The neighborhood has just 46 homesites, each 1-2 acres and heavily wooded, large enough to create a sense of privacy and personal space for your family while still maintaining a sense of community and camaraderie among neighbors. Additionally, over one third of the homesites border the banks of the gently rolling, serene Franks Branch and Swift Creek.

While the Crimson Crest lifestyle may be reminiscent of another era, all of the conveniences needed by a 21st century family are close by. Major roads such as I-95 and Route 288 are easily accessible and put everything you need at your fingertips. There are several excellent golf courses nearby and Lake Chesdin is within a 10 minute drive. Southpark Mall and Old Towne Historic Petersburg are close at hand with an abundance of shopping and dining possibilities. And Fort Lee military base is only 10 miles from Crimson Crest, making it an ideal neighborhood for military families relocating to Richmond. Children attend Chesterfield County public schools, including the new Matoaca High.

LifeStyle Builders is currently offering 14 different floor plans in Crimson Crest, with prices starting at $328,950. These homes range from 2010 to over 3575 square feet, feature 3 to 5 bedrooms, open designs, expandable living spaces with finishable third floors and basements, and some first floor owner's suites. Once a buyer has selected their preferred floor plan and homesite, the next step is a trip to LifeStyle's 2600 square foot Design Studio, where a professional Design Consultant will guide the homebuyer through the personalization process as they choose from hundreds of interior and exterior selections to create the home of their dreams. State-of-the-art displays and vignettes feature the latest design trends in cabinetry, flooring, lighting, faucets and finishes.

Model hours at Crimson Crest are Monday through Saturday 11:00am to 6:00pm, and Sunday 1:00pm to 6:00pm. Directions are: From Route 288, exit onto Route 10 East, turn right on Lewis Road, right on Bradley Bridge Road, left on Woodpecker Road, and Crimson Crest is on the left. From I-95, take exit 54 for Temple Ave/Colonial Heights, turn left on Temple Avenue, right on Boulevard (Rt.301/1), left on Lakeview Road, right on Woodpecker Road, and Crimson Crest is on the right. For more information about Crimson Crest or to set up an appointment, please call Karen Britt at (804) 590-1155 or (804) 283-1192.

A Richmond-based and locally-owned company since 1990, LifeStyle Builders and Developers offers an extensive portfolio of award-winning homes with distinctive elevations and innovative designs. LifeStyle Builders is currently building in 10 neighborhoods throughout the Richmond area. For more information about LifeStyle Builders, please visit www.lifestylebuilders.com or call (804) 639-9440.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:00 AM | Comments (0)

SSCL Seminar Will Give Back to New Orleans with a "Big Hearts in the Big Easy" Day of Giving

Granite Loan Management's 10th annual Strategies for Success in Construction Lending (SSCL) Seminar will offer attendees the chance to give back to New Orleans with a "Big Hearts in the Big Easy" service day.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) August 26, 2008 -- Granite Loan Management's 10th annual Strategies for Success in Construction Lending (SSCL) Seminar will offer attendees the chance to give back to New Orleans with a "Big Hearts in the Big Easy" service day. This will take place on opening day of the SSCL seminar, held December 2-4, 2008 at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans in New Orleans, Louisiana.

SSCL attendees may join in a guided tour "The Rebuilding of New Orleans (A Special Look at New Orleans: Recovery, Restore & Renew)." This tour of the city below sea level will educate participants about New Orleans' rich history, stately architecture and historic areas that are undergoing significant renovation and conservation.

Attendees may put on a hard hat and lend a hand in a full-day Habitat for Humanity Build. SSCL Volunteers will build houses in partnership with the community, volunteers and homeowner families, whereby families are empowered to transform their own lives. With the help and support of volunteers, Habitat for Humanity is working to eliminate poverty housing in the New Orleans area while serving as a catalyst to make decent shelter a matter of action.

The "Big Hearts in the Big Easy" events will support the ongoing needs of the New Orleans community and be a preview to the work accomplished by Keynote Speaker, Lt. General Russel L. Honore, Ret., Commander of Joint Task Force Katrina.

The SSCL Seminar is taking part in The Ritz-Carlton's "Meaningful Meetings" program with 10% of all room proceeds to be donated to Habitat for Humanity and other local charities.

For more information, visit www.ssclseminar.com. To receive event updates and Granite Loan Management's Construction Lending News quarterly periodical, contact us at SSCL @ graniteloan.com or call 866.710.4087.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:00 AM | Comments (0)

Sponsorships Available for the 10th Annual Strategies for Success in Construction Lending Seminar at www.SSCLseminar.com

Registrations for sponsorships and exhibitor space is being accepted for the 10th anniversary event of the Strategies for Success in Construction Lending (SSCL) Seminar.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) August 25, 2008 -- Registrations for sponsorships and exhibitor space is being accepted for the 10th anniversary event of the Strategies for Success in Construction Lending (SSCL) Seminar. Hosted by the Granite Companies, the SSCL seminar will be held December 2-4, 2008 at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The SSCL is the only event of its kind and is the most prominent event in the construction lending industry. A highly visible opportunity, sponsorship at SSCL is a cost-effective way to place your company's name in from of more than 100 key decision-makers in construction lending from across the country. Attendees typically include residential construction lenders, commercial construction lenders, commercial bankers, special servicers, loan workout specialists, title providers, attorneys (mechanics' lien laws) and construction inspections providers.

Four sponsorship levels are offered, including bronze, silver, gold and platinum. Benefits include event registrations, tables in the exhibit gallery, pre-seminar attendee lists, podium acknowledgement and company mentions on signs, websites and printed materials. Platinum sponsors currently include The National Association of Residential Construction Lenders (NARCL) and National Mortgage News.

For more information visit www.ssclseminar.com. To receive event updates and our Construction Lending News quarterly periodical, contact us at SSCL @ graniteloan.com or call 866.710.4087.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:59 AM | Comments (0)

Online Registration Available for the 10th Annual Strategies for Success in Construction Lending Seminar at SSCLseminar.com

The 10th anniversary event of the Strategies for Success in Construction Lending (SSCL) Seminar is now accepting attendee registrations.

Denver, Colorado (PRWEB) August 24, 2008 -- The 10th anniversary event of the Strategies for Success in Construction Lending (SSCL) Seminar is now accepting attendee registrations. The SSCL conference will be held December 2-4, 2008 at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Presented by the Granite Companies, this year's event will run in two simultaneous tracks for both residential and commercial industries. Offering a true showcase of the ever-changing world of construction lending, attendees may take advantage of all sessions by sending representatives to participate in each of the lectures and open forum segments.

This educational conference covers core issues facing the construction lending industry, including such topics as regulatory changes, industry best practices, SBA regulations, secondary market outlook, managing distressed assets, economic updates, and legal issues.

For a limited time, attendees will receive early bird pricing of $795 for lenders and $1,995 for vendors. Online registration is available at www.SSCLseminar.com along with hotel and transportation information. The Early Bird Special and exclusive hotel rates expire November 5, 2008. Registration fee includes full program, breakfast and lunch each day, and networking receptions. Spouse and guest tickets are only $150 and provide entry into both receptions and pre-conference voluntour events.

Sponsorships are also available. Platinum sponsors currently include The National Association of Residential Construction Lenders (NARCL) and National Mortgage News.

For more information and to register online, visit www.SSCLseminar.com. To receive event updates and our Construction Lending News quarterly periodical, contact us at SSCL@graniteloan.com or call 866.710.4087.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:59 AM | Comments (0)

California Pool Builder Transforms Remodel Design Team to Supply New Demand

As more homeowners decide to stay in their homes and renovate rather than upgrade and relocate, Swan Pools is putting together a stronger remodel design team to meet the demand.

Lake Forest, CA (PRWEB) August 24, 2008 -- Swan Pools, a leading swimming pool builder and backyard designer in California, is changing the structure of their remodel design team. With this changing trend in home ownership, California swimming pool builders are modifying their resources to evolve with the times.

It is common knowledge that business cycles exist and there are shifts in the marketplace. The current shift in California, however, has happened fast. California's building market has changed and new construction has seen a drastic decline in the year to date. Today's marketplace is flooded with existing backyards and outdated California swimming pools. And with today's market conditions, people are not moving or relocating. Instead, they are staying where they are and renovating with the help of a swimming pool builder.

Looking to supply this new demand, the Swan Pools team of swimming pools builders has reallocated their resources and prepared a robust, remodel design team capable of modernizing, updating, and changing the entire backyard experience. From material upgrades to major structural rebuilds, Swan Pools can add spas to existing pools, artificial rock grottos and waterslides, fire rings, barbeques, fireplaces and complete landscapes. With today's advancements in sanitation systems, remote controls, and energy efficient equipment sets, it is a very exciting time for existing pool owners looking to renovate and enjoy the current business cycle with an updated backyard; ready for the upswing in housing prices.

For more information or to hire a California swimming pool remodel specialist, visit www.swanpools.com.

About Swan Pools:

For more than 50 years, Swan Pools has been creating outdoor family environments that are built to last a lifetime.

Swan Pools was incorporated in 1954 and as a California swimming pool builder has built one of the longest and most dependable track records in the pool and spa industry. Not many swimming pool companies claim to have built 50,000 pools in California. The value to the consumer is the immeasurable confidence that their customers have in not only the construction process but also the ongoing future relationship that exists as long as they own their pool.

Through the generations, lifestyles have changed and so has today's swimming pool. To stay on the cutting edge of this changing technology, Swan Pools is constantly developing new design techniques and installation procedures that must pass specific quality control standards. This ensures that each new product or material that a consumer may want will stand the test of time. They build pools, not just for today, but for tomorrow.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:58 AM | Comments (0)

Graphics Consulting Firm Launched to Increase Profitability for A/E/C Companies

Newly launched, Guiding Graphics is the first and only graphics consulting firm to cater specifically to architects, engineers, construction industries and their allied professions.

New York, NY (PRWEB) August 23, 2008 -- Newly launched, Guiding Graphics (www.guidinggraphics.com) is the first and only graphics consulting firm to cater specifically to architects, engineers, construction industries and their allied professions.

"A firm's image should be represented at the highest quality possible," said Shallon Gammon, President and CEO of Guiding Graphics. "Good graphic design is absolutely essential to powerful client presentations and deliverables." A/E/C companies may not be aware of the full potential a graphic design professional can offer. Visual presentations, said Gammon, need to fully communicate the company's capabilities to clients.

Guiding Graphics offers services to help architects, engineers, contractors, planners, landscape architects and interior designers assess their graphic design needs and develop an internal graphics team. Guiding Graphics hires and trains graphic designers using the industry terminology so that they can adapt and apply their design skills effectively, said Gammon.

"An exceptional graphic presentation is essential in portraying the quality of our firm, the client, the project, and the opportunity," said Howard Kozloff, Director of Operations at Hart Howerton, an international planning and design firm, for whom Gammon established an internal graphic design department eight years ago. "A large part of our business involves visual representation to convey ideas to our clients. In some cases, clients are not accustomed to thinking visually," said Kozloff. "We need to overcome this so that our ideas are not lost in translation."

Having its own team of graphic designers has increased Hart Howerton's business, client relations and profits. The firm regularly receives and fulfills additional client requests for graphic design items such as logos and marketing books. An internal graphic designer produces quality, powerful and consistent presentations which continue to please clients and advance Hart Howerton's respected image in the market place.

"The potential impact of hiring a graphic designer would be a more streamlined production of deliverables, increased profits and, most importantly, satisfied clients," said Gammon.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:57 AM | Comments (0)

SSC Founder Commemorated in Popular New Book GUTS-IMAGINATION-VISION: Conversations with INNOVATORS-CHANGEMAKERS

Marcia Veidmark, President/Founder of Specialized Services Co.(SSC), a family owned and operated successful trenchless boring & drilling company in Arizona, was commemorated in a newly released book by Shirley G. Schmitz, called GUTS-IMAGINATION-VISION: Conversations with INNOVATORS-CHANGEMAKERS. Schmitz, who's own illustrious career began in an era when women were an anomaly in business, is the founder Shirley G. Schmitz Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit corporation that provides educational scholarships and training to college students.

Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) August 23, 2008 -- Marcia Veidmark, President/Founder of Specialized Services Co.(SSC), a family owned and operated successful trenchless boring & drilling company in Arizona, was commemorated in a newly released book by Shirley G. Schmitz, called GUTS-IMAGINATION-VISION: Conversations with INNOVATORS-CHANGEMAKERS. Schmitz, who's own illustrious career began in an era when women were an anomaly in business, is the founder Shirley G. Schmitz Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit corporation that provides educational scholarships and training to college students.

"GUTS-IMAGINATION-VISION" invites readers to peer into the hearts and souls of 11 extremely different but equally intriguing entrepreneurs, including Marcia Veidmark and her three sons. It provides proof that pioneers, adventurers, and creators of commerce and economic value are alive, well, and opening up new territories every day. And throughout every beautifully designed full color page the featured entrepreneurs bravely and willingly expose both their highly cherished successes AND failures with the goal of helping others.

Just like Marcia Veidmark, none of the Changemakers included in the book just 'happened' into their success. No luck here! They all made it happen through strong enduring vision. The world they influence is, and continues to be, a better place because their visions are put into actions. Their guts and imagination propelled by great infusions of faith, persistence and generosity in sharing their talents makes it hard to think about a world without them... and thousands like them. Their impact is huge locally, nationally and internationally. They represent the monumental potential of entrepreneurs who start, build and grow -- the millions more in the world and the future tidal wave of change that only Innovators and Changemakers can bring.

Individuals of all genders, ages, and interests should own, read, enjoy and benefit from this book. GUTS-IMAGINATION-VISION: Conversations With Innovators-Changemakers by Shirley G. Schmitz
is a beautiful, full color, 243 page hard-cover book and is available as of August 21, 2008 on amazon.com. ISBN-10: 0976354039/ISBN-13: 978-0976354031.

For more information about Marcia Veidmark and her successful small business and fascinating life experiences visit www.sscboring.com. For more information about the book and its author visit www.gutsimaginationvision.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:57 AM | Comments (0)

Balli Steel Reports 100 per cent PA Rise in Global Steel Prices

Balli Steel has announced that the construction boom is driving steel prices in emerging markets, according to the latest Quarterly Market Report 2008 on global steel prices and trends.

(PRWEB) August 23, 2008 -- Balli Steel has reported that in the last 12 months, global steel prices have increased by 100% and now range from around $1,000 to $1,500 per tonne. The company highlights that global annualised steel production has reached a record 1.4 billion tonnes, up from 800 million tonnes in 2000.

Balli Steel (http://www.balli.co.uk/Activities/Balli_Steel.asp ) indicated that global steel trading (http://www.balli.co.uk/Activities/Balli_Steel/Products.asp ) demand is for two types of steel products: construction steel - beams, bars and mesh, used for infrastructure projects, offices, housing and leisure facilities - and industrial steel - used for manufacturing items such as automobiles, ships and pipes. The company revealed that the construction activity in emerging markets including China, the Middle East and Brazil, has been driving the price of steel over the past few years.

Balli Steel calculates that there will be continued buoyancy and capacity constraints for steel in the oil, shipbuilding and gas industries. They also highlighted the tremendous growth opportunities in emerging markets which now account for over 75% of global steel consumption.

China now dominates the world's steel market, accounting for 45% of global steel consumption, up from just 30% 10 years ago. China has also emerged as a leading steel producer, with steel production expected to reach 550 million tonnes in 2008, up from approximately 200 million in 2000.

Balli Steel stressed that the Middle East is a strong market for the steel industry, with the market growing at a rate of 3.2% per annum, one of the fastest in the world.

In 2001 construction steel in the Middle East was priced at just $200 per tonne, but in 2008 it has peaked at $1,550 per tonne. The majority of the demand is for construction steel, required to help build the property mega projects such as The Palm Jumeriah, the Burj Dubai and Dubai Marina.

In the first half of 2008, Balli Steel supplied almost 1 million tonnes of steel to the Middle East. Since developers have now priced steel and other construction commodity prices into their forward development plans, the company does not anticipate further cost pressures, enabling Balli to anticipate a continuing healthy demand for steel until 2012 due the construction boom in the region.

Balli Steel believes that whilst the Dubai property market has grown significantly and emerged well ahead of other property markets in the region, the next 5 years will see the rapid growth of new property markets in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

The company highlighted that Saudi Arabia has not commenced construction on any of its major masterplan projects, which will add some 5 million tonnes per annum to the country's steel requirement.

India is predicted to be one of the world's fastest growing economies and producers of steel over the next 7 years, currently accounting for 50 million tonnes of steel, and Balli Steel calculates that this will double by 2015, driven by a huge demand for industrial steel.

Europe, which accounts for some 17% of global steel consumption, has been growing at a steady rate of 2% per annum. The steel markets in the southern European states are driven by a demand for construction steel, whilst the northern European countries are dominated by a demand for industrial steel products.

Notes for Editors:
Balli Group (http://www.balli.co.uk/Services.asp ), is a large private, multi-national corporation, headquartered in London, but with offices in Dubai and other key business hubs around the world.

Balli (http://www.balli.co.uk/ ) was established in 1982 and operates a number of affiliated companies specialising in commodity trading, industrial, real estate and private equity with operations in over 20 countries. Together with its affiliated companies, Balli employs over 2,000 people worldwide.

Balli Steel is the company's principal operating subsidiary, and is one of the largest independent steel traders (http://www.balli.co.uk/Activities/Balli_Steel/Markets_segments.asp ) in the world. Balli Steel provides raw materials and steel to a number of market segments.

For further information on Balli Steel contact:
Alex Lawrie
PR Contact
Balli c/o
7 Hertford Street
Mayfair
London
W1J 7RH
020 7886 0304
www.balli.co.uk

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:56 AM | Comments (0)

The Pineapple Corporation Introduces Bellissimo, Toughtful New Floor Plans at Palermo

The Pineapple Corporation has released three new floor plans to complement their Bellissimo Collection.

Jacksonville, FL (PRWEB) August 23, 2008 -- The Pineapple Corporation announces a new collection of floor plans representing The Bellissimo Collection, the company's latest offering of semi-custom homes in Florida designs priced from the mid-$400,000s at Palermo.

"The Bellissimo Collection homes are similar to and compatible with our Primo and Magnifico architecture that defines Palermo," said The Pineapple Corporation's Spencer T. Calvert. "This is a wonderful opportunity for homebuyers to enjoy a beautiful semi-custom home by The Pineapple Corporation that is attractively priced."

The Pineapple Corporation is offering three new thoughtful http://www.thepineapplecorp.com/availCustom.htm floor plans that reflect distinctive architectural design and European influences. The semi-custom home plans range in size from 2,200 square feet to 2,700 square feet. Bellissimo homes offer tile roofs and multiple European-style elevation choices, including Coastal Mediterranean, Country French and Tuscan styles.

The Bellissimo Collection homes will offer courtyard concept designs, European architectural details and many of the outstanding quality features that have made the company's other homes at Palermo so appealing. Bellissimo homes will reflect superior architectural flow and function and include handsome tile flooring, generous trim packages with base and crown moulding, GE appliances and designer cabinetry. The Pineapple Corporation also offers buyers several architectural options to modify their home's floor plan to best suit their lifestyle.

The company's European village-style community is located on Hodges Boulevard between J. Turner Butler and Beach boulevards. When complete, Palermo will feature 133 masterfully crafted semi-custom courtyard homes from The Pineapple Corporation's three distinct product lines - The Magnifico Collection, The Primo Collection and The Bellissimo Collection.

Palermo offers residents an intimate setting and distinctive community amenities, including a recreational facility with multi-purpose rooms, fitness facility, swimming pool and pavilion for grilling. To enhance the community's wonderful setting and lifestyle, The Pineapple Corporation also offers homebuyers the opportunity to purchase a social membership at the prestigious Glen Kernan Golf & Country Club, which boasts a traditional 18-hole championship golf course and an elegant clubhouse as well as a community sports complex with a Junior Olympic swimming pool, eight lighted Har-Tru clay tennis courts and a fully staffed state-of-the-art fitness center. Homebuyers may upgrade to a full golf membership at Glen Kernan Golf & Country Club if desired.

To learn more, visit The Pineapple Corporation's models at Palermo, which is located on Hodges Boulevard south of Beach Boulevard in Jacksonville. The models are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (904) 223-8793 or visit www.thepineapplecorp.com.

The Pineapple Corporation is one of the premier builders of luxury custom homes and semi-custom homes in Northeast Florida. Elegance, superior quality and building excellence create the foundation for the company's award-winning designs. The Pineapple Corporation's new homes are showcased in the area's most exclusive neighborhoods including Palermo, Villini at Glen Kernan and Glen Kernan Golf and Country Club. The company's custom home division builds magnificent residences throughout the area, including oceanfront and riverfront homes.

For more information, visit http://www.thepineapplecorp.com/.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:55 AM | Comments (0)

Moore Design Group Recognized with two Legacy of Design Awards

Moore Design Group is proud to be recognized as a dual award winner in the 2008 Legacy of Design Awards, which was announced at a celebratory event in Dallas, Texas on the evening of Friday, August 15th.

Dallas/Fort Worth, TX (PRWEB) August 23, 2008 -- Moore Design Group is proud to be recognized as a dual award winner in the 2008 Legacy of Design Awards, which was announced at a celebratory event in Dallas, Texas on the evening of Friday, August 15th. Legacy of Design is the annual competition recognizing the finest interior design achievements within the Texas Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID.org). This year's competition consisted of 38 categories and attracted a record number of entries from the Chapter's 1,100+ members. Moore Design Group is pleased to have received the following two honors:

Multifamily - First Place
Icon in the Gulch*

Nashville, Tennessee
Developer: Bristol Development Group, Marketstreet Equities Co.

*This project has also been recognized by:

NAHB Pillars of the Industry Awards
2008 Best Leasing or Sales Center - Finalist
(one of four finalist entries)

ASID Dallas Design Community DesignOvation
2008 Kitchen under $50,000 - Honorable Mention

Singular Space (Commercial) - First Place
Velocity in the Gulch**

Nashville, Tennessee
Developer: Bristol Development Group, Marketstreet Equities Co.

**This project has also been recognized by:

NAHB Pillars of the Industry Awards
2008 Best Leasing or Sales Center - Finalist
(one of four finalist entries)

ASID Dallas Design Community DesignOvation
2008 Corporate Multifamily - Honorable Mention

About Moore Design Group
Established in 1991, Dallas-based Moore Design Group has proven itself to be one of the leading designers of multifamily living communities in North America. With close to 17 years' worth of experience focusing on multifamily installations and commercial design, owner Stephanie Moore Hager, Allied Member ASID, and her award-winning team offer a level of excellence that exceeds the most rigorous standards within the industry. Other current projects underway include: State Thomas Apartment Homes - Dallas, TX (CWS Capital Partners); Villages of Overlook - Ft. Worth, TX (Hillwood Development); The Solara - Orlando, FL (Bristol Development); Museum Place - Fort Worth, TX (JaGee Holdings / TLC Urban). Additional information about the firm - including a list of projects, awards, media coverage, and team bios - is available at www.mooredesigngroup.net.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:55 AM | Comments (0)

VanNoppen Marketing Now Offers Affordable Aerial Photography Services and Design

Morganton, NC-based marketing and advertising agency, VanNoppen Marketing, offers aerial photography services to realtors, property developers, municipalities, industrial developers and those interested in sight seeing or obtaining unique photographs of homes and places. Using firm's graphic arts talent, clients can customize photographs to suit a variety of needs. This new service combines the firm's graphic design and photography talents to create exciting and compelling marketing messages.

Morganton, NC (PRWEB) August 23, 2008 -- Nothing sells real estate like a view, a bird's eye view particularly.

Aerial photography is unparalleled in its ability convey the strategic design of a golf course, the expanse of a ball field complex, the accessibility to an industrial park and the unique topographic features of a large piece of real estate.

At the growing request of clients, the Morganton-based creative agency, VanNoppen Marketing (www.vannoppenmarketing.com), recently began offering turnkey, affordable and timely aerial photography of residential developments, landmark buildings, events, homes and scenic vistas throughout western and central North Carolina, northern South Carolina and southern Virginia.

Already adept at creating powerful marketing collateral and Internet sites, the addition of aerial photography is a natural extension of the visual tools that the firm already employs and that are required to successfully tell a story, said company president Allen VanNoppen.

"No one in our region has the skill set or equipment to create powerful, compelling aerial imagery in short order and at a price point that is affordable enough for smaller business and communities," he said. "We frequently were asked by clients if we knew someone who could take an aerial picture. And while making arrangements we learned that more often than not the resulting contracts were prohibitively expensive and scheduling problems - weather delays or personnel conflicts - were commonplace.

"The process just wasn't as reliable as we like. So we dusted off our wings and started doing it ourselves," he said

VanNoppen has held his FAA pilot's license since 1976. Pam Walker, the company's managing director, is an accomplished photographer with years of published work. The firm's team of graphic designers and Internet architects can quickly convert photographs into interactive, multi-layered images that are easily integrated into marketing and advertising tools and strategies.

The aerial photograph business can be very precise and some clients have required pictures planned down to the exact coordinates at a certain time of day and in certain weather conditions, VanNoppen said.

"Creating maps requires a level of precision similar to landing the airplane," VanNoppen said.

Using a high-wing Cessna with a specialized window designed to accommodate high resolution, stabilized cameras needed for functional aerial photography, VanNoppen began recording images for clients in March. Current aerial photography clients include land developers, real estate brokers, commercial firms and recreational businesses.

"Our plane is based locally," VanNoppen said. "And since I'm the pilot and Pam is the photographer we can respond very quickly. Then we bring the images back to our offices and create powerful visual marketing tools.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:54 AM | Comments (0)

Leading Concrete Stain Manufacturer, Concrete Camouflage® Listed For Sale

With the explosive growth of concrete stain, it's hard to imagine why anyone would place Concrete Camouflage®, for sale on the open market. Especially providing they seem to hold one of the top spots in an industry that is today one of the best flooring solutions available. You have to ask yourself, Could this be Your Lucky day? Or just another article? Let's see.

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) August 22, 2008 -- Concrete Camouflage®, in a surprising move, has been recently placed for sale on the open market, being listed with Scot Jones of The Jones Group. A prominent specialists in Business Mergers and Acquisitions, located in the Dallas, Texas area. Even more surprising is the listing price which seems to be a giveaway by today's standards at only $1.2 million. That's U.S. dollars, not even Euros.

After becoming a staple, leader, and authority within the concrete stain industry, it certainly has some scratching their heads and wondering why sell at a time when Concrete Camouflage® is seemingly ready to burst with growth? When you visit Mr. Jones website listing of the offering and company details, found at www.JonesCorporate.com, it says only that the Concrete Camouflage® offering for sale, is because it is not the owners core business.

Ok, that's fair enough, but it also says in not so many words, that this particular business is essentially at a point in it's growth, and it further indicates that Concrete Camouflage® has such a following, that it may very well be sitting within it's industry in a place few ever see, the beginning of greatness. If so, that would be like have being able to have gotten in, at the very take off, of companies like Coca Cola®, Kleenex®, or Sherwin Williams®.

As it turns out that is the very reason for the offering. Concrete Camouflage® has evidently grown to a point of, and reached a place in it's evolution, that with the owners other businesses and current projects of interest, they are ready to pass Concrete Camouflage® on to it's new owners, so that they can take it to it's much earned, deserved, and what looks to be an easily achievable pinnacle. Which is the reason given for Concrete Camouflage®, having been listed with Mr. Jones.

So what is Concrete Stain anyway and why would it make Concrete Camouflage® such a great investment? Concrete stain which was found primarily in commercial applications at first, soon went residential as well. Now found in many homes and businesses and gaining in popularity, concrete stain has become today's alternative to traditional flooring.

Being used both indoors and outdoors it was once available only to contractor's, yet the increased demand for concrete stain from the do it yourself population quickly brought the product into the mainstream, and Concrete Camouflage® looks to be positioned to ride the leading edge of this tremendous wave.

What fuels this demand for concrete stain? Simply said, the beauty of it, the ease of use, and likely most of all the rather significant cost savings over other types of flooring, along with the allergy friendliness, low maintenance, and much more.

Chances are you or someone you know has or will have stained concrete somewhere around your home and/or business. Chances are Concrete Camouflage is or will be the products it's stained with. Or as they would prefer to say, You've "Camouflaged Your Concrete!" TM.

So there you have it. The only question now is, who will be the next owners. Though it seems likely to be gobbled up by some big fish competitor, who knows, if you have an extra million or so it could be you. Though you may want to hurry as this rare investment opportunity doesn't seem very likely to last long.

For more information on Concrete Camouflage®, you can visit their website at ConcreteCamouflage Concrete Stain and Supplies Though to make inquiries in regards to the sale of Concrete Camouflage®, or to request further information in regards to such, Please contact Mr. Scot Jones via The Jones Group or at 1 888 808 5071.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:54 AM | Comments (0)

£1400 Windfall for Safestyle UK Energy Saving Customer

Safestyle announced the winner of the August draw of its Diamond Club.

(PRWEB) August 22, 2008 -- Gloria Brennan of Peacehaven in East Sussex has become the latest winner of Safestyle UK's Diamond Account Club quarterly prize draw, having her entire £1408 account balance for installation of Safestyle's energy-saving double glazing paid off in full.

Gloria became only the third ever winner of The Safestyle Diamond Account Club which was started in November 2007 to provide added benefits to people who purchase their windows and doors on Safestyle UK's flexible finance package. This includes a quarterly prize draw with the winners qualifying to have their entire outstanding payment balance paid off in full.

The draw took place earlier this week with Mrs Brennan emerging as the lucky winner -- having a balance of £1408 being written off by the nation's leading energy saving windows and doors retailer, Safestyle UK themselves.

A delighted Gloria commented "This was a wonderful treat and I am sincerely grateful. I have been extremely pleased with both new porch and lobby doors and window. Safestyle have been a pleasure to deal with ... This win is the icing on top of the cake".

The Diamond Account Club qualifies members to automatic entry into the prize draw which also incorporates partner companies providing customers with the opportunity to gain fantastic discounts on various goods from holidays to new window blinds.

Mani Bhatoa, Head of Safestyle UK marketing, commented: "The Diamond Account scheme is designed to enable us to offer our customers a little bit more than the norm. It also helps us ensure that double glazing remains highly affordable, giving everyone the chance to combat ever increasing energy bills." "The prize draw aspect is a fantastic additional bonus and we're all very proud of how the scheme is making a positive difference for our customers", he added.

The next Diamond Account Club prize draw will be taking place in November 2008.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:53 AM | Comments (0)

New Website, Concrete-Floors.org, Educates about Concrete Flooring Options

Concrete-Floors.org gives consumers comprehensive information about designing and incorporating concrete flooring in their homes or businesses. The site includes design tips, numerous photos, cost and maintenance information, and common questions about concrete floors.

Yucaipa, CA (PRWEB) August 22, 2008 -- Designed to provide specific and detailed information, Concrete-Floors.org is a new website aimed at educating consumers all about concrete flooring options. The site addresses every imaginable question about concrete floors, such as 'Are concrete floors cold?' 'Are concrete floors loud?' and 'How much do concrete floors cost?'

Concrete-Floors.org also guides consumers through the design process and describes various finishing options for concrete floors, coloring ideas, and more. It includes a comprehensive photo gallery offering design ideas for concrete floors used in kitchens, family rooms, commercial and retail locations, and restaurants.

In addition, the site explains the eco-benefits of concrete floors. Recognized by design and building communities for its health and environmental benefits, concrete floors are a unique flooring material that help reduce allergens, incorporate recycled products, work great with passive solar designs, and are one of the most durable flooring options.

Concrete-Floors.org also brings together consumers and local concrete contractors by pointing to a nationwide contractor directory. Consumers can use the site to learn about concrete floors, choose photos of designs they like, and then access the directory for contact information for concrete flooring contractors in their local area.

Photos courtesy of Image-N-Concrete Designs.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:52 AM | Comments (0)

Creative Environments Design & Landscape Expands Pool Design and Remodeling Services in Arizona

Phoenix based Creative Environments Design & Landscape announced today that it has significantly expanded its swimming pool and spa design and construction department. Creative Environments has been designing and installing award winning swimming pools and spas for decades. This move allows Creative Environments to offer a more expansive and comprehensive swimming pool design and remodeling service offering.

Chandler, AZ (PRWEB) August 22, 2008 -- Phoenix, AZ based Creative Environments Design & Landscape announced today that it has significantly expanded its swimming pool and spa design and construction department. Creative Environments has been designing and installing award winning swimming pools and spas for decades. This move allows Creative Environments to offer a more expansive and comprehensive swimming pool design and remodeling service offering.

"We've been building the outdoor environments of our clients' dreams for more than 50 years," said John Waters, Co-Owner of Creative Environments. "Captivating water features, streams, lakes and pools have always been a part of that. This move simply allows us to continue to build the most integrated outdoor living spaces."

In Phoenix, swimming pools, hot tubs and spas are an integral part of most custom landscape designs. Creative Environments designers apply the same award winning vision they have for the landscape to the pool design or re-design to create the most relaxing, enjoyable outdoor living spaces possible.

To learn more about Creative Environments custom pool design and installation services call 480-458-4100 or visit CreativeEnvironments.com for a custom quote.

About Creative Environments:
Creative Environments Design & Landscape, an industry leader since 1950, is the largest and most respected Arizona landscape construction and design company. We continue to win local and national landscaping and pool design and remodel awards from industry peers, as well as receive the honor of #1 Landscape Design / Build Company, as voted by the residents of the Phoenix-metro area.

Although unique and functional design is our passion, outstanding customer service is our number one priority. Our talented Pool Design and Construction Consultants will listen to you and then they will use their expertise to develop an integrated and architectural-quality pool design plan that will create the outdoor living space of your dreams.

With our specialized construction crews and a fully-staffed customer care department, you can rest assured that your pool and your entire outdoor living environment will be installed correctly and on time.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:52 AM | Comments (0)

Plyboo® passes California's Section 01350 emissions tests

Smith & Fong's flagship product range meets criteria for toughest VOC standards

San Francisco, Calif. - Smith & Fong Co., manufacturer of Plyboo® bamboo architectural plywood and flooring, today announced that the company's Plyboo bamboo plywood products have passed emissions testing under the criteria of California Section 01350, the most stringent volatile organic compound (VOC)-emissions standards in North America.

Smith & Fong's entire product line already meets the California Air Resource Board (CARB)'s Phase I and Phase II regulations for formaldehyde emissions that were passed in 2007. And many of the company's products are 100-percent urea formaldehyde-free, contributing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) points under EQ 4.4.: No Added Urea Formaldehyde.

Smith & Fong decided to test its products under Section 01350 as it strives to set a new benchmark for clean building products. Section 01350 tests for formaldehyde and more than 60 other VOCs known to be present in the manufacture of composite wood products.

"We're very excited to have passed Section 01350," Smith & Fong founder and president Dan Smith said. "The requirements for Section 01350 are written into California's Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) indoor air quality program as well as LEED NC (new construction) and LEED CI (commercial interiors). But environmental health, whether indoor or outdoor, has always been a key component of our business strategy; so the validation is our reward."

In late-2007 Smith & Fong announced plans to convert its manufacturing facilities to urea formaldehyde-free processes, and in early 2008 the company secured FSC certification for its bamboo resource--the very first FSC certification to be issued for a non-wood product.

Founded in 1989 and headquartered in San Francisco, Smith & Fong Co. was the first U.S. company to manufacture bamboo flooring in China for sale in North America, offering its initial product under the brand name Plyboo® in 1993. In 1996 the firm began producing bamboo plywood, followed by coconut palm flooring and plywood products in 2000. Smith & Fong is committed to sustainability through innovation. For information call 866-835-9859 or visit http://plyboo.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:49 AM | Comments (0)

Davis Timber Frame Company Brings BioBased® Insulation to New England Region

Soy-Based spray foam insulation helps homeowners save money on heating and cooling costs while leaving a green footprint! BioBased® Insulation can help save building and homeowners up to 50% on heating and cooling costs when used with other responsible building products.

Claremont, NH (PRWEB) August 22, 2008 -- Davis Timber Frame Company, a national timber frame and post and beam company with over 21 years of home design, building, and commercial experience has become a BioBased® Insulation Certified Dealer servicing the greater New England region.

In 2003 BioBased® Insulation introduced the first bio-based and water-blown spray foam insulation to be ICC-rated (ESR 1383). The company has continued to develop new and more sustainable insulation products that incorporate natural, renewable ingredients, such as Agrol® - a 96% pure bio-polyol - to replace a portion of the petroleum that's found in traditional spray foam insulations. BioBased® Insulation products are only available from a network of installers who have been trained in not only spray foam application but also building science.

"As a respected timber frame company, we've always taken pride in the quality and energy efficiency of our products," states Reid Greenberg, Director of Marketing at Davis Timber Frame Company. "By becoming a BioBased® Insulation Certified Dealer, we can now offer an energy-efficient and environmentally responsible insulation alternative for our customers and network of builders."

BioBased® Insulation's family of products are installed as a liquid that quickly expands, filling every crack and void and creating a sealed thermal envelope that drastically reduces air infiltration. When used with other responsible building products, homeowners can realize a savings of 40 to 50 percent on their heating and cooling bills. Because it utilizes an annually renewable resource, the polyurethane insulation also supports farmers and reduces our dependence on foreign oil.

BioBased® Insulation's current products include BioBased® 501, a .5 lb, open-cell spray foam; and BioBased® 1701, a closed-cell, 1.7 lb spray foam. Both products use water instead of ozone-depleting chemicals as the blowing agent during application. BioBased® 1701 is the first spray foam insulation to earn the stringent GREENGUARD and GREENGUARD for Children and SchoolsTM certifications for indoor air quality.

BioBased® Insulation has been recognized with national awards for its innovation and environmentally conscious approach. BioBased® 501 Insulation was named the 2003 Outstanding Green Product of the Year at the National Green Building Conference in Baltimore and was named one of 2003's Top 10 Green Products by the U.S. Green Building Council. Both products have been named one of the Top 100 Products by Building Products magazines.

The products also have generated buzz with national media outlets. HGTV's "Living with Ed" and DIY Network's "Cool Tool", CBS' "The Early Show," "Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford," "Bob Villa," Chicago Tribune, San Francisco Chronicle, Dallas Morning News, and other national news media have spotlighted BioBased® Insulation for its unique health, comfort and energy-efficient qualities.

For more information about BioBased® Insulation, to get an estimate for your next job, or obtain detailed floor plans on timber frames and post and beam barn homes, contact Davis Timber Frame Company or visit their Web site, www.davisframe.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:49 AM | Comments (0)

GeoStructures Ranked Among Fastest-Growing Private Companies

GeoStructures named by Inc. as fast-growth company in engineering and construction

Purcellville, VA (PRWEB) August 22, 2008 -- Inc. magazine today listed GeoStructures at No. 2,581 in its annual ranking of the 5,000 fastest-growing private companies in the country. The recognition is due to company's three-year revenue increase of 141 percent, which was attributed to both an acquisition and organic growth.

Leading the growth was the company's signature Geopier® product, followed by Impact Piers® and Rapid Impact Compaction (RIC), all of which reinforce or stiffen the soil to increase bearing capacity and control settlement for low- to mid-rise structures. Growth has also been fueled by its design-build activities in the transportation sector, ranging from design/supply and construction of mechanically stabilized earth retaining walls, sound walls on permanent tied-back walls, and temporary shoring for excavation support.

"While it is gratifying to be acknowledged as a growing company, our focus has been on smart growth the last few years, so we have added people and products that are creating long-term value," says Michael Cowell, P.E., president of GeoStructures. "Growth for us will continue to be a by-product of offering our customers the products and services they need for their construction and transportation projects."

Comments Inc. 5000 Project Manager Jim Mellon, "Our second annual Inc. 5000 continues the most ambitious project in business journalism. The Inc. 5000 gives an unrivalled portrait of young, underreported companies across all industries doing fascinating things with cutting-edge business models, as well as older companies still showing impressive growth."

The 5000 companies that made the list reported aggregate revenue of $185 billion and median three-year growth of 147 percent. The 2008 Inc. 5000 companies were engines of job growth, having created more than 826,033 jobs since those companies were founded. Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and a list of the fastest-growing companies that can be sorted by industry and region can be found at Inc. 5000.

Hottest Regions for Fastest-Growing Companies

The New York metro area tops the Inc. 5000 list with the most companies of any city with 355. Washington, D.C. comes in a close second with 300 companies on the list; Los Angeles comes in third with 244 companies, and Atlanta (194 companies) and Chicago (189 companies) round out the top five. Interestingly, only 62 companies on the Inc. 5000 are not based in metropolitan areas.

Grand Rapids, Mich. leads the list with the highest median revenue of any metro area ($26.2 million, 16 companies), followed by San Antonio, Texas ($21.3 million, 25 companies), Baton Rouge, La. ($18.8 million, 14 companies), Houston ($17.1 million, 97 companies), and Kansas City, Mo.-Kan. ($16.5 million, 39 companies).

Methodology
The 2008 Inc. 5000 list measures revenue growth from 2004 through 2007. To qualify, companies must be U.S.-based and privately held, for profit, independent - not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies - as of December 31, 2007, and have had at least $200,000 in revenue in 2004, and $2 million in 2007. Companies can apply for next year's Inc. 5000 by registering with "IncBizNet, Business Network for Private Companies," at IncBiz.

About GeoStructures
GeoStructures (http://www.geostructures.com) is the Mid-Atlantic's largest design-build contractor for the combination of foundation support, engineered earth structures and sound walls for transportation and commercial construction projects. By delivering the most appropriate engineered solution, the company enables rapid scheduling for year-round construction.

About Inc.com
Inc.com, the daily resource for entrepreneurs, delivers how-to guides, advice, tools, breaking news, and rich multi-media to help business owners and CEOs start, run, and grow their businesses. Inc.com offers dynamic marketing solutions to help advertisers effectively reach Inc.com's audience of business leaders. Visit http://www.inc.com.

About Inc. 500 / Inc. 5000 Conference
Each year, Inc. magazine and Inc.com celebrate the remarkable achievements of today's entrepreneurial superstars -- the privately held small businesses that drive our economy. The Inc. 500|Inc. 5000 Conference brings together members of the Inc. 5000 community--both a new class of Inc. 5000 honorees and the list's alumni--for three days of powerful networking, inspired learning, and momentous celebration. For the first time ever, this powerful networking event is open to all. Please join us September 18-20, 2008 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Washington, D.C. For more information or to register, visit http://www.Inc500Conference.com or call 877-211-0489.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:49 AM | Comments (0)

6 Advantages of a Vernay Supravalve®

The Supravalve® has been a mainstay of the Vernay Medical check valve line-up for over 20 years, and is still one of the most preferred assembled check valves used in the medical industry. Here are 6 advantages of a Vernay Supravalve®.

Yellow Springs, Ohio (Vocus/PRWEB ) August 22, 2008 -- The Supravalve® has been a mainstay of the Vernay Medical check valves line-up for over 20 years. But did you know the Supravalve® has 6 advantages compared to other check valves in the medical industry?

Here are 6 advantages of a Vernay Supravalve®:

1. Highly reliable in critical applications where drugs, blood or other fluid media, require the dosing to be precisely checked with care. More specifically the Supravalve® is used in medical fields such as:

• Drug Delivery
• Blood Oxygenators
• Blood Handling
• Wound Drainage applications
• Infusion sets

2. 100% functionally tested for forward flow, reverse leakage and weld integrity.
3. Assembled in a Class 10,000 clean environment to ensure the safety of the patient.
4. Non-position sensitive.
5. Provides a non-torturous flow path with low pressure losses at both medium and high flow rates. Having a non-torturous flow-path assures the valve is optimized for applications where Haemolysis is a concern.
6. Available in a multitude of fitments and material selections that can readily be sterilized using Gamma, ETO or High temperature Sterilization methods.

At the heart of the Supravalve® is a duckbill check valve, a technology patented by Vernay many years ago. The silicone duckbill check valve is assembled into mating plastic components, using a state of the art automated assembly process. All configurations of the Supravalve® Check Valve are USP Class VI compliant.

Vernay Laboratories designs and manufactures precision molded elastomeric materials. Primary area of expertise is in the design and manufacture of elastomeric check valves for fluid control applications. Standard product lines include a variety of check valve designs both fully Elastomeric and molded onto metal or plastic.

For further information on the Vernay Supravalve® product line, please call 1-866-Vernay-1 or visit our website at www.vernay.com

About Vernay
Vernay Laboratories is proud to provide precision-engineered fluid control rubber components and assemblies to companies around the world. Vernay serves the Automotive, Medical, Office Products, Small Appliances, Small Engine, White Goods, and Specialty markets. Using our expertise in the creation of manufacturing processes, quality & environmental standards and new cutting-edge elastomeric materials, we design check valves and other fluid control rubber products that offer advanced solutions to your complex engineering problems.

Links:
http://www.vernay.com/ProductCategories/Duckbills.html
http://www.vernay.com/ProductCategories/CheckValves.html
http://www.vernay.com/Technologies/Material.html

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:40 AM | Comments (0)

Latista Joins Autodesk Developer Network

Construction software and systems provider Latista joined the Autodesk Developers Network. Integrating Autodesk's building information modeling (BIM) capabilities with LATISTA Field software will benefit Latista clients.

Reston, Va. (PRWEB) August 22, 2008 -- Autodesk, the company that led the construction industry into the computer age with AutoCAD software in 1982, has accepted Latista Technologies into the prestigious Autodesk Developer Network (ADN).

Autodesk is best known recently for advancing building information modeling technology or BIM, which Latista incorporates into its LATISTA Field construction management software. BIM is a comprehensive digital form of construction modeling that combines 3D electronic plans with related associated information like specifications, estimating data and more specialized information on things like acoustics, lighting and fire resistance. BIM models can be easily examined, manipulated and edited throughout the design and build process, and any changes will be carried through to all parts of the model, reducing chances for transcription errors and oversight.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:40 AM | Comments (0)

Case Study: Brasfield & Gorrie perfect Atlanta's Midtown Mile with Latista Construction Software

Construction software and systems supplier Latista and Brasfield & Gorrie general contractors announced a successful collaboration on 1010 Midtown, a 35-story condo and retail project in the heart of downtown Atlanta. Brasfield & Gorrie will use Latista field management software on upcoming projects as well.

Reston, Va. (PRWEB) August 22, 2008 -- Software and services provider Latista and the United States' 32nd largest contractor and 16th largest general builder, Brasfield & Gorrie, reported a successful collaboration on Atlanta's 1010 Midtown luxury condominium project. Brasfield & Gorrie used LATISTA Field web-based, mobile software to improve the efficiency of its quality assurance and deficiency correction procedures. The details of the project can be found in a case study available on Latista's website.

Brasfield & Gorrie's 1010 Midtown project is a $159 million, 35-story condominium in downtown Atlanta. With 30,000 sq. ft. of retail space and an 820-space parking garage attached, the building forms phase one of a three-phase plan to create for Atlanta an upscale living, shopping and entertainment district that rivals Chicago's Magnificent Mile and New York City's Madison Avenue.

LATISTA Field software and mobile tablet PCs enabled architects, engineers and managers to access plans on the job site, document deficiencies, and easily synchronize information with subcontractors and other third parties. The system shortened subcontractor issue identification-to-resolution cycles from several days to less than 24 hours, enabling the project team to meet its goals of improved quality and faster completion.

Brasfield & Gorrie liked the Latista system so much that they are deploying it on future projects. Steve Gilbert, Brasfield & Gorrie Corporate Operations IT Manager, said, "It's so easy to organize issues in LATISTA--it's effortless--and getting reports out to subcontractors is so much quicker that you get a better return."

Latista Executive Vice President Chris Ramsey praised Brasfield & Gorrie for deciding to automate their quality assurance processes. "Brasfield & Gorrie is truly at the forefront in the areas of quality management and construction technology," said Ramsey. "As a leader in the construction industry, Latista is proud to welcome Brasfield & Gorrie as a customer."

For more information on the 1010 Midtown project and Brasfield & Gorrie's use of LATISTA Field software, a case study is available through Latista's website under the case studies section.

About Latista

Latista has been a leader in mobile and web-based field management software and services since its founding in Reston, Virginia, in 2001. Its software is used by top 200 contractors and top 50 owners worldwide to reduce project costs and risks by eliminating redundancy, enhancing collaboration among project participants, and allowing more thorough analysis of project performance.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:39 AM | Comments (0)

Granite Construction Inspections Names Richard Purnell of Pomona Park, FL as Inspector of the Quarter

Granite Construction Inspections (GCI), a national construction inspection company, is proud to announce the Inspector of the Quarter for the 2nd Quarter of 2008.

Denver, Colorado (PRWEB) August 22, 2008 -- Granite Construction Inspections (GCI), a national construction inspection company, is proud to announce the Inspector of the Quarter for the 2nd Quarter of 2008. Dick Purnell of Pomona Park, Florida has won "Outstanding in the Field" for his hard work and dedication to GCI. Mr. Purnell's extensive background in residential and commercial construction has made him an industry expert.

Each quarter, GCI selects an exemplary inspector to receive the honor of Inspector of the Quarter. For more information about GCI's inspection services visit www.gcinspects.com or send an email to info@gcinspects.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:39 AM | Comments (0)

Housing Project Draws Generous Hands, Good Times for Employees of ReliableRemodeler.com

A Saturday of volunteering for Habitat for Humanity proves a good hearted challenge for ReliableRemodeler.com employees willing to get hands on.

Portland, Ore. (PRWEB) August 22, 2008 -- ReliableRemodeler.com, http://www.reliableremodeler.com/, a nationwide home improvement and remodeling contractor matching service called on some brave employee volunteers to step up for a good cause in the industry. Habitat for Humanity, an international nonprofit organization dedicated to providing affordable housing to families in need, spearheads community volunteer projects across the country and the world. It relies on its volunteers to build over 250,000 homes each year, http://www.wwhfh.org/.

The morning of August 2, 2008 six ReliableRemodeler.com employees gathered at the local build site show their support and lend a hand on five homes in progress at the Lawson Place Habitat site in Aloha, Oregon. ReliableRemodeler.com employees Gregg Hicks, Wade Corbin, Bernie Russnogle, Gina Trella, Paige Thomas, and Mary Sweigert honored their commitment to the project, "It's a fun chance to come out for the community," Communications Specialist Paige Thomas said, "especially with the support of our colleagues and our company."

Joining home building professionals and the soon-to-be homeowners, ReliableRemodeler.com employees leveled driveways, hauled lumber, built scaffolding and attached siding. While skill levels ranged from the proficient hammer swingers and scaffold scalers to construction novices, there were areas for everyone to participate. Helpful professionals were on site to provide the necessary guidance.

After an early Saturday morning and a hard day's work, volunteers were ready for rest and water. "We're really glad to have this opportunity," said Director of Business Development Gregg Hicks, "its been a long time in the works and I think we were all excited to be able to get our hands dirty helping out."

About ReliableRemodeler.com:

ReliableRemodeler.com is a leading nationwide home improvement contractor matching service working to bring together homeowners and contractors. To date, the company has matched over 730,000 homeowners with home improvement projects to quality, local contractors. Besides homeowners, the company targets over 1.2 million home improvement and remodeling contractors in the United States, providing them access to quality home improvement leads using proprietary matching technologies.

Both homeowners looking to start a home improvement project, or contractors who want to start receiving qualified leads, can visit our website, ReliableRemodeler.com. http://www.reliableremodeler.com/

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:39 AM | Comments (0)

Top University Implements New Multi-Media Emergency Notification System

LED Displays from Inova Solutions supplement emergency communication plan.

Charlottesville, VA (Vocus/PRWEB ) August 21, 2008 -- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, known as Virginia Tech, has selected Virginia-based Inova Solutions as part of its emergency mass notification system. This month, university officials will implement over 200 of Inova's durable and highly visible OnAlert™ displays as a means to instantly communicate vital information to large groups of students, staff and faculty in public areas.

Virginia Tech's initial project includes 220 OnAlert displays for mass notification in classrooms and common areas. When no emergency message is needed, the displays show accurate time and date to ensure synchronized school operations. The displays are powered by existing network connections using standard Power over Ethernet (POE) technology. Centrally networked, the comprehensive system is easy to install, manage and send emergency messages as needed.

"OnAlert is a simple, secure way for authorized school officials to issue emergency alerts," said Gerry Gorman, Vice President at Inova Solutions. "The wall-mounted LED displays are visible from over 100 feet, inexpensive to install and easy to operate."

Learn more about mass notification systems at http://www.inovasolutions.com/mass-notification/

State Requires Schools to Have Emergency Plan by January 2009
The Commonwealth of Virginia recently passed legislation requiring colleges and universities to establish comprehensive, prompt and reliable first-warning and notification plans by January 1, 2009.

Tips for Choosing Emergency Mass Notification Systems
For schools considering mass notification systems, here are a few considerations:
1. Use multiple technologies to deliver emergency messages, such as Visual Messaging, SMS/Text, Email and Public Address. This multi-tiered approach allows for communication overlap in the event of weak cell phone coverage or limited reach of other systems. Read about this comprehensive communication strategy in Inova Solutions' free position paper, A Holistic Approach to Mass Notification, available for download here.
2. Coordinate public address and visual messaging systems for optimal reach, especially for large congregation spaces like student unions, cafeterias and lecture halls to minimize the impact of noise often accompanying a crisis and support the disabled population as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
3. For visual displays, LED screens deliver crisp, clear messages to large areas.
a. LEDs are brighter than LCD screens and can be read easily at more than 100 feet, even through smoke and dust. (LCDs have up to 20-foot viewing range and limited viewing angle.)
b. LED displays are durable, with an expected life of 10 years (three times that of LCDs)
c. LED displays consume far less power than LCDs. Ethernet-powered displays can use redundant network power to survive outages.

About Inova Solutions
Founded in 1984, Inova Solutions is a global provider of real-time visual communications helping call centers, public transit systems, schools, manufacturers and others instantly communicate vital information. Visit www.inovasolutions.com.

Note: Product photos and interviews are readily available.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:35 AM | Comments (0)

Granite Loan Management to Sponsor Inaugural FirstBank Golf Tournament and Benefit Special Olympics Colorado

Granite Loan Management, a national construction risk mitigation company, is proud to announce their sponsorship of the FirstBank Golf Tournament at The Golf Club at Bear Dance located at 6630 Bear Dance Road in Larkspur, Colorado.

Denver, Colorado (PRWEB) August 21, 2008 -- Granite Loan Management, a national construction risk mitigation company, is proud to announce their sponsorship of the FirstBank Golf Tournament at The Golf Club at Bear Dance located at 6630 Bear Dance Road in Larkspur, Colorado.

The event will benefit Special Olympics Colorado and assist with their mission to provide year-round training and sponsor more than 80 competitions at the area and state level in 20 sports for 8,500 athletes statewide.

For more information about Granite Loan Management, visit www.graniteloan.com or send an email to sales @ graniteloan.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:35 AM | Comments (0)

Green Building Consultant to Keynote Back-to-Back Conferences in Los Angeles and Phoenix

On two consecutive days, green building industry leader, Jerry Yudelson, will deliver keynotes at two important green building conferences.

Tucson, AZ (PRWEB) August 21, 2008 -- The green building consulting firm Yudelson Associates announced today that its founder and principal, Jerry Yudelson, will be the featured as a green building speaker at two important early September green building industry conferences.

On September 3, 2008 at 3:30 pm, at the Phoenix Convention Center (West Building, 3rd Floor), Mr. Yudelson will keynote a special event hosted by the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) and the Arizona Association for Economic Development, along with the Arizona chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council, and Green Summit. This presentation is called "Building the Green Business Case." Following Jerry's presentation, solar and green building experts will discuss trends and the adoption of sustainable practices that will shape the competitiveness of the Greater Phoenix region. This invitation-only event will include GPEC investors and communities, as well as local mayors, city council members, city managers and development services directors.

Event organizer Rebecca Robinson of GPEC said, "Jerry Yudelson has been a national leader in advancing the business case for green building and green development. We hope that our audience will leave with the conviction that green building is good business and something they should be promoting."

The very next day, on September 4, at 9:00 am at the Los Angeles Convention Center (West Building, Room 515B), Mr. Yudelson will keynote the inaugural Green Action Summit, hosted by Atlanta-based conference promoter, The Data Bridge. Mr. Yudelson's presentation, "The Business Case for Zero Net Energy Buildings" will bring the more than 200 attendees up to date on the rapidly emerging consensus about the importance of zero carbon emission buildings.

Kelly Olcott, president of The Data Bridge, said, "Having a keynote speaker of Jerry's caliber highlights the importance of taking action on the green building imperative. We think this conference will greatly accelerate the green building movement in Southern California."

About Yudelson Associates"
Yudelson Associates is a leading national and international green building consulting firm. The founder, Jerry Yudelson, is widely acknowledged as one of the nation's leading experts on green building and green development. He is the author of eight green building books and serves as Research Scholar for Real Estate Sustainability for the International Council of Shopping Centers, a 70,000-member international trade organization. He is a frequent keynote speaker at industry and professional conferences and chairs the industry's largest annual show, Greenbuild.

For more information on Yudelson Associates, go to http://www.greenbuildconsult.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:35 AM | Comments (0)

Data-Basics announces 2008 User's Group Meeting for SAM Pro Enterprise Customers

Meeting will take place September 7-9, 2008 in Cleveland, Ohio.

Cleveland, OH (PRWEB) August 21, 2008 -- Data-Basics, a leading provider of service management software to the HVAC industry, will be hosting the 2008 User's Group Meeting to help their clients get more out of their SAM Pro Enterprise software. Registration can be done by calling 1-800-837-7574 or by visiting www.databasics.com. All registrations are due by August 29, 2008.

The two-day seminar will take place September 7-9 at the Doubletree in Cleveland the event is open to all companies that use, or have interest in upgrading to, SAM Pro Enterprise. The sessions will cover a variety of topics, including:

* How to get more out of your SAM Pro software utilizing best practices
* How to increase productivity through mobile computing
* Understanding and using the new features in SAM Pro

In addition to these topics, attendees will benefit from the opportunity to exchange knowledge with and network with users in industries that include service and construction, equipment sales and service, facilities maintenance management and national accounts. Also, the event features round table sessions where attendees can interact and discuss the lessons, and make and receive recommendations on getting the most out of the product.

"Last year's meeting was a resounding success, and our largest ever," said Arthur Divell, CEO, Data-Basics. "We feel that this year will provide an even greater learning and networking experience for those that attend."

About Data-Basics:
As a software provider for more than 30 years, Data-Basics has helped hundreds of service, construction and facilities firms streamline and improve their business through technology. The company's software is in use across North America at a variety of businesses, which has provided the company with experience in a wide range of industries and disciplines.

With more than 30 years of experience, Data-Basics provides field service software, work order software, dispatching, and service management software solutions to automate the field service, accounting, service dispatching, and more for service contractors, facilities maintenance and similar industries.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:31 AM | Comments (0)

Georgia Real Estate Auction Rapidly Approaching for 173+/- Acres for Georgia Land Auction in Toombs County, Georgia

Georgia Land Auction will be hosted by United Country Certified Real Estate, a Georgia Real Estate Auction and Brokerage Company

(PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- This upcoming Georgia Real Estate Auction and Georgia Land Auction will be conducted by Myers Jackson, Georgia real estate auctioneer and broker, onsite at Hillsboro Road in Lyons, Georgia on Saturday, September 13th at 10:00a.m. This real estate auction event will provide an excellent opportunity for interested parties to attend the live sale, bid and win their own piece of Georgia Land for sale. Pre-registration, online bidding and a full list of details on this Georgia real estate auction are highlighted at the company's website.

The 173 +/- total acres of property in this Georgia land auction will be offered divided in 11 tracts. This Georgia real estate auction will be selling using the high bidder's choice real estate auction method of sale. High bidder's choice describes the option given to the highest bidder to choose a certain tract or group of tracts being offered at auction. The eleven tracts of central Georgia Real Estate being offered can either be purchased as individual tracts or as a combination of tracts, whichever the high bidder prefers. Once the first round of bidding has finished and the high bidder has made his/her selection of tracts, the next round of bidding begins. The high bidder in the second round will win the right to choose from the remaining tracts. The Georgia real estate auction will continue in this manner until winning bidders each select the tract of their choice. Offering the property divided and by high bidder's choice will provide a tremendous advantage to prospective purchasers by allowing them the opportunity to pick the very best of this Georgia land for sale.

"This Georgia Land Auction will be offered divided high bidders choice, and the high bidder will have the chance to take all 11 tracts on the first round of bidding," says Myers Jackson, CAI, AARE, CES, ATS and Real Estate Auctioneer in Georgia and Florida. "These types of real estate auctions generally produce a market price that is acceptable to the sellers. Market conditions are set by a well qualified buying public after an aggressive marketing process."

The central Georgia real estate offered in this Georgia land auction is located just 4.2 miles from US 1 in Lyons between US Hwy 280 and GA Hwy 178. With easy access to home sites, you can create a rural homestead and transform your country home dreams into reality with the enthusiasm and inspiration of a private and peaceful setting. The Georgia land for sale in this real estate auction offers an abundance of opportunities such as; hunting, a timber investment, or just a Georgia country home lifestyle. When this parcel of real estate is offered on September 13, bidders will have the opportunity to submit their highest and best bids. Contracts will be written and closings will occur approximately 45 days following the auction.

"United Country has brought buyers and sellers of real estate together since 1925. Our marketing tools are second to none and our unwavering mission to reach the buying public has produced a buyer database currently totaling more than 300,000 buyers interested in purchasing property," said Shawn Terrell, CAI, AARE, and Vice-President of United Country Auction Services. "Our clients select United Country Auction Services due to our ability to deliver accelerated results. Time and time again, they are extremely impressed with our company's marketing process and the professional experience of the team. This marketing power will help Certified Real Estate attract maximum participation -- and an ideal outcome for seller and buyers -- at this Georgia land auction."

Established in 1925, United Country is the partner of choice for marketing land, commercial and residential properties, luxury property and asset sales across the country. With performance excellence recognized by the Wall Street Journal as one of the top 1% performers, our marketing program is second to none.

Event news and details of this Georgia Land Auction are available on the internet. Contact the real estate auctioneer for any questions on the upcoming Georgia Real Estate Auction for central Georgia land for sale by calling direct at 229-726-0065 or email Myers(at)CertifiedAuctionMail.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:30 AM | Comments (0)

Customers Set to Benefit From Extra Carriages

First Capital Connect customers are set to benefit from new carriages, longer and more frequent trains as well as a greater choice of destinations due to changes to franchise agreements agreed between the Department for Transport.

London, UK (PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- First Capital Connect customers are set to benefit from new carriages, longer and more frequent trains as well as a greater choice of destinations due to changes to franchise agreements agreed between the Department for Transport.

The changes are a key milestone in the wider £5.5bn Thameslink modernisation programme and mean that passengers will see:

- Increased frequency - the number of trains running through central London on the Thameslink route will increase from 8 up to 15 per hour during peak hours from 1 March 2009;

- New trains - 92 new class 377 carriages - worth around £100m - are on order, which will be deployed on First Capital Connect services between Bedford, London and Brighton and Southeastern services between St Pancras International and Bromley South, Orpington and other Kent stations from March 2009;

- Extra seats on First Capital Connect - the introduction of additional class 319 carriages will boost more peak services to 8-car length on the First Capital Connect Thameslink route. With the class 377 and class 319 carriages, there will be an additional 1150 seats in the morning peak and 2080 seats in the evening peak on First Capital Connect services from March 2009.

- More direct journeys - from March 2009, some Southeastern services will join First Capital Connect Thameslink route services, meaning passengers can travel between Sevenoaks, St Pancras International and stations in north London without changing trains.

Rail Minister Tom Harris MP said:"We are committed to improving the travelling experience for passengers on one of the country's busiest rail routes. That's why we have secured a range of improvements, from more frequent train services, to newer trains and more seats that Thameslink passengers will benefit from for years to come."

"The changes we are making are part of the £5.5bn Thameslink programme, which will deliver a dramatic increase in capacity for passengers in London and the South East."

Notes to Editor
1. The franchise changes are part of the wider Thameslink modernisation programme. The £5.5bn Thameslink modernisation programme will transform the Thameslink network by 2015. The programme will deliver:

- Up to 50 per cent longer trains across the current Thameslink route;
- New direct services from the southern Home Counties to destinations on the Thameslink and Great Northern routes;
- A dramatic increase in capacity, with up to 12 carriage trains running up to 24 times an hour through central London by 2015;
- New trains across the Thameslink route - there will be an entirely new fleet of trains by 2015, with extra carriages providing around 14,500 extra seats each day for passengers;
- Three London mainline stations, Blackfriars, Farringdon and London Bridge stations, will be improved, giving the stations the capacity to handle more passengers and easing bottlenecks.
- Blackfriars station will become the first station to span the Thames and by the end of 2011 the station will be able to handle 12 car trains for the first time.
- Platform extensions at 50 stations outside central London, including stations along the Bedford line.
First Capital Connect's extra class 319 carriages form part of FCC's current franchise agreement.
- Visit firstcapitalconnect.co.uk for information or to book a train to St Pancras or any of our other desitinations.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:29 AM | Comments (0)

Rodman Construction Inc. engages Crossroads Partner Inc., to implement Microsoft Dynamics AX for Construction and Equipment Management

Crossroads Partner, Inc. announces it has entered into an agreement with Rodman Construction, Inc. to establish an Equipment Management and Construction enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution based on Microsoft Dynamics AX.

(PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- Crossroads Partner, Inc. announces it has entered into an agreement with Rodman Construction, Inc. to establish an Equipment Management and Construction enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution based on Microsoft Dynamics AX.

"This agreement further strengthens our commitment to the Construction and Heavy Equipment sector and extends our growth into the southwest region of the U.S.," said Einar Ulfsson, Chairman and Co-Founder of Crossroads Partner. "Having a Construction Industry leader, like Rodman, choose our vertical solution over the competition is a fantastic payoff for all the hard work invested in creating this world class solution. Rodman senior executives have significant experience with other ERP solutions and were committed to finding the right partner. For that reason, we are extremely proud Rodman chose Crossroads."

The Rodman project is focused on defining and updating standard business processes to support the implementation of a world class ERP system to manage operations from end to end due to continued growth. To do this, Rodman chose Crossroads Partner to implement Dynamics AX 2009 and the Annata IDMS heavy equipment management tool.

As part of the business process update, Crossroads will develop specific construction functionality called Crossroads Partner Construction (CPC) for AX, which consists of Fleet Management, Construction AIA Billing, Microsoft Project Server, Microsoft Performance Point Business Intelligence and Microsoft Mobile Handheld system with GPS location. Rodman will integrate Microsoft SharePoint into the Dynamics AX solution providing user collaboration for 2000 Rodman users.

Central to Rodman's selection of Crossroads Partner was their expertise with Annata IDMS. The Heavy Equipment Management capability of Annata IDMS, developed exclusively for the Heavy Equipment and Automotive industry, is certified by Microsoft, and provides deep equipment management, warranty and service capabilities which are necessary to control equipment costs.

Craig Porter, Chairman, Rodman LLC, said, "When Crossroads sent us the solution certification, we knew we had chosen the right solution; IDMS."

About Crossroads Partner:
Crossroads Partner delivers software, consulting and technology implementation services to mid-market and enterprise level companies that are striving for business process improvements and increased efficiency for their organization. As a leading provider of business management solutions Crossroads Partner has built our business around empowering our clients. By representing the leading Business Management solutions from multiple vendors including Microsoft Dynamics and SAP we are uniquely positioned to provide objective software selection consulting services. Crossroads Partner stands behind our expertise with an industry leading Software Selection Guarantee.

About Rodman Construction:
Rodman Construction Co., was established in 1990, and based in the Dallas / Fort Worth Area with offices in Austin and San Antonio, maintains a corporate commitment to quality workmanship, cost efficiency, and exceeding their clients' expectations. These commitments are the basis of continued growth for Rodman Construction with 1200 employees and over 425 pieces of heavy equipment.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:29 AM | Comments (0)

Villa Family Sells 1-Million Square-Foot Mixed Use Commercial Real Estate Portfolio in the Garden State

Existing Condition Drawings by VECS Group Facilitate One of the Largest Real Estate Transactions of 2008 in the Tri-State Area

Morris Plains, New Jersey (PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- V.E.C.S. Group LLC (VECS)

It was reported earlier this summer that a very talented brokerage team from Newmark Knight Frank sold the Villa families Clark, NJ portfolio of over 1-million square-feet office, flex, retail and industrial real estate despite the current credit crunch in the Northeast real estate sector.

The team headed by Managing Director Richard Mirliss, successfully sold the 22 buildings on 70 prime New Jersey acres just 25 miles west of New York City to the Feil Organization. Both companies relied heavily on CAD drawings produced by V.E.C.S. Group LLC (Verified Existing Conditions Services Group) in order to bring the deal to a close.

The Portfolio is comprised of production facilities, offices and retail outlets for major corporations including L'Oreal, ShopRite, A&P, Bally's and Rite Aid. Over the years the footprint of each building was altered in order to accommodate the business activities of these high profile tenants rendering the as-built drawings useless.

"We used our mobile CAD units and state of the art laser measuring devices in order to deliver accurate finished drawings to Newmark Knight Frank in just a few days" says Jason Caravello, CEO of the VECS Group. "I am pleased that VECS was able to provide both the buyer and the seller with the accurate information that they both needed to close such a large and complicated transaction", Caravello goes on to say.

In the past it could take months for a seller to acquire existing condition drawings a task that VECS, in many cases can turn around in just 24 hours. The advent of the latest CAD software combined with state of the art laser measuring devices has enabled companies like VECS to quitley expedite and simplify the commercial real estate process. Transactions large and small need accurate drawings to protect both the seller and the buyer.

"This has to be one of the largest transactions to take place in the tri-state area so far this year" said Richard Mirliss. The portfolio was listed with an asking price of $100 million, but the final purchase price remains undisclosed.

To learn more about this innovative company and their state of the art technology visit http://www.VECSgroup.com

About V.E.C.S. Group LLC.:
Specializes in existing conditions surveys, as-built surveys, computer aided design CAD and computer aided facilities management CAFM. Our team produces high quality measured drawings for architects, engineers, building owners, developers, and facility managers. www.VECSGroup.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:28 AM | Comments (0)

Nystrom Building Products Acquires Arden Architectural Specialties: 80 Years of Combined Business Expected to Generate Sustainable Growth, new Product Lines

Nystrom Building Products, Brooklyn Park MN, announces the acquisition of Arden Architectural Specialties, Inc., New Brighton MN, effective immediately. Nystrom Building Products is the world's leading direct-to-site provider of complementary building products for the commercial construction industry. Nystrom and Arden Architectural offer complementary lines of products serving the same markets.Nystrom has experienced consistent growth in both domestic and international markets, more than doubling revenues over the past five years. The addition of Arden Architectural is expected to boost growth by another 15%-20%, while expanding the company's overall market reach.

Minneaplois (PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- Nystrom Building Products, Brooklyn Park MN, announces the acquisition of Arden Architectural Specialties, Inc., New Brighton MN, effective immediately.

Nystrom Building Products is the world's leading direct-to-site provider of complementary building products for the commercial construction industry. Nystrom and Arden Architectural offer complementary lines of products serving the same markets.

Nystrom has experienced consistent growth in both domestic and international markets, more than doubling revenues over the past five years. The addition of Arden Architectural is expected to boost growth by another 15%-20%, while expanding the company's overall market reach.

Nystrom CEO Scott Sustacek describes the acquisition as a good fit in terms of both culture and business objectives.

"Employees at both organizations describe themselves as focused on the customer," Sustacek said. "Nystrom is about quality products, responsiveness and flexibility with our customers. We routinely adapt our products and processes to fit with the way they do business. This acquisition is very much in line with that philosophy and strategy. We look forward to realizing the many synergies that will benefit both our customers and our combined workforce."

According to Arden Architectural founder and president Fred Berndt, "Our employees and customers helped us build this business from scratch, so we've been committed to finding a transition strategy that would honor their efforts and ensure the continued growth of the business. After many discussions over a number of months, we're confident that Nystrom offers the complementary products, expertise and values necessary for us to achieve our objectives."

Nystrom will continue to offer Arden Architectural products and services under the Arden Architectural brand through its network of manufacturers reps. Nystrom's direct sales force will assume responsibility for sales and service in areas not currently serviced by Arden Architectural representatives.

About Nystrom Building Products (www.nystrom.com)
Sixty-year-old Nystrom Building Products, which sells direct to commercial contractors, provides a wide range of products, from architectural louvers to expansion joint covers to fire extinguisher cabinets, for major construction projects on five continents.

Nystrom has become an active participant in "building information modeling," which brings together architects, builders and manufacturers to create detailed, shared working models of both the building and the construction process before a shovel of dirt has been moved. The result is a faster, more efficient building process using "just in time" principles first developed in manufacturing and retail applications.

About Arden Architectural
Twenty-year-old Arden Architectural works closely with architects, engineers and interior designers to design and specify components such as entrance systems, wall protection and stair nosings for use in commercial and institutional building projects.

As an active member of the US Green Building Council and its regional chapter, Arden Architectural has made a significant commitment to achieving sustainability in both its products and its operations.

Contact:
Martin Keller
Introworks

* 612-220-6515

mkeller(at)introworks.net

OR
John McKay
Introworks
(o) 952-288-2732
(c) 612-636-3535
jmckay(at)introworks.net

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:28 AM | Comments (0)

Optima Leads the Way for Greener Construction in the Partitioning Industry

As the warnings keep on coming about the state of our planet, Optima, the UK's market leading partitioning specialist has vowed to completely cut waste to landfill out of their operations through recycling by 2010.

London, UK (PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- Optima, the UK's leading supplier of commercial partitioning systems is paving the way to greener construction by promising to eliminate all waste to landfill from their operations by 2010.

Optima, (whose past projects have included supplying partitioning and glass walls for clients at the Gherkin), plan to achieve this by using only materials that can be dismantled and recycled when they are no longer required.

Managing Director, Nigel Westray said, "We are examining every aspect of the supply chain to see where improvements can be made and are pleased to say that we have reduced our carbon emissions by 5% since the start of the year."

Optima's revolutionary partitioning solutions have been made from 98% recycled materials since the beginning of this year, now Optima wish to go a step further, ensuring each of its products can be fully recycled, eliminating waste to landfill and dramatically reducing the impact Optima's activities have on the environment.

Westray adds, "Our products are installed in the offices of some of the most prestigious companies in the UK, companies who are totally committed to Environmental management, and it is only right that we meet or exceed their standards of environmental best practice".

Optima's environmentally ethical practices recently earned the company ISO14001 accreditation for its Environmental Management System and the company has also drawn up plans to make further emissions reductions across all sectors.

To find out more about Optima's superior and eco friendly office partions products and services please visit: http://www.optimasystems.com/glass-wall-sustainable.php

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:27 AM | Comments (0)

FIT Residencial Implementing Lombardi Business Process Management (BPM) Solution

Brazilian homebuilder using Teamworks BPM Suite for real estate acquisition and management processes.

Austin, Texas and São Paulo, Brazil (PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- Lombardi, a leader in business process management (BPM), has announced today that FIT Residencial, a homebuilder based in São Paulo, Brazil, is implementing its award-winning Teamworks® BPM software suite to support the company's mission-critical real estate acquisition and management processes. FIT Residencial is a fully owned company subsidiary of Gafisa (NYSE: GFA) one of Brazil's leading diversified national homebuilders.

"We selected Teamworks because our company is growing very fast and we needed a BPM platform to ensure that our processes can keep up with our growth -- both today and in the future," said Fábio Urushibata, IT Manager at FIT Residencial. "We were especially impressed with the product's analysis and monitoring features that provides our managers with easy-to-use dashboards that give them a transparent view of the business at any time they need it."

WG Systems, Lombardi's reseller in Brazil, is assisting FIT Residencial with the design, delivery and support of the new processes in Teamworks.

Initially, FIT Residencial is using Teamworks to automate and manage two core processes. The first process is used to identify opportunities and subsequently acquire land as inventory that FIT Residencial uses to develop its new buildings. The second process -- "Incorporation" - takes a piece of land that is already in the FIT Residencial land bank, and deals with managing all of the legal, financial and commercial steps required before a building or collection of buildings can be released into the general real estate market for sale. This process is very intensive due to the complex legal environment within Brazil and includes many activities.

"Teamworks offers FIT Residencial a BPM platform that manages their critical land development and management processes today, as well as scales with them as their business grows," said Marcelo Rosenburg, partner of WG Systems. "The combination of Lombardi's leading BPM product coupled with our extensive sales, marketing and professional services expertise is delivering huge benefits for Brazilian customers as they focus on their process improvement efforts."

FIT Residencial process activities that are being managed by Teamworks include their land identification, financial viability study, project planning, licenses acquisition, financing, and presales preparation.

"Lombardi is proud to be the BPM technology for FIT Residencial's real estate management processes," said Phil Gilbert, president of Lombardi. "Our partnership with WG Systems, coupled with the strength of our BPM solutions, is clearly playing a critical role in helping leading Brazilian companies manage, scale and improve their core business processes."

About FIT Residencial:
FIT Residencial is a fully owned company by Gafisa, one of the leading companies in ranking of Brazil's largest builders and incorporators. As a startup launched in March of 2007, Fit Residencial is targeting the affordable entry level and mid low housing market and has already launched 10 developments comprising 2,459 units (Gafisa's stake) and a potential sales value of R$263 million in the states of São Paulo, Bahia, Maranhão, Goiania and Pará and amassed a land bank of R$973 million in potential sales value. The first development is scheduled to be delivered within the business segment's projected in 16-18 months. With the corporate infrastructure now largely in place, Fit is poised to rapidly build profitable, scalable developments as it grows across the country.

About WG Systems:
WG Systems is a leading IT company, based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and has been distributing, designing and implementing business solutions with innovative information technology since 2000. The company has a diversified portfolio of products, services and customers. WG Systems clients include well known global and Brazilian companies such as Petrobras, Pfizer, NET Servicos, Unibanco and Pernambucanas. For more information, visit www.wgsystems.com.br

About Lombardi
Lombardi is a leader in business process management (BPM). We offer award-winning BPM technology and services to help our customers, partners and government agencies around the world succeed with their process improvement initiatives.

Lombardi is behind some of the largest, most successful BPM implementations in the world. Our customers include Allianz Group, Aflac, Banco Espirito Santo, Barclays Global Investors, Dell, El Paso Energy, FETAC, Financial Services Authority, Ford Motor Company, Hasbro, ING Direct, Intel, Maritz Travel, National Bank of Canada, National Institute of Health, Safety-Kleen, T-Mobile, UCLH, Wells Fargo Financial, Xbridge and numerous governmental agencies. For more information, visit www.lombardi.com.

Lombardi, Teamworks are registered trademarks and Teamworks Process Optimizer, Teamworks Portal, Teamworks for Office, Teamworks for SharePoint, Teamworks for Organization Management and Lombardi Blueprint are trademarks of Lombardi Software, Inc. All other company/product names and service marks may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:26 AM | Comments (0)

University of Mobile Taps Callis Communications for Hosted VoIP and Wireless Internet

Additional Deployment for St. Andrew's Episcopal School Extends Geographic Service Reach, Green IT Strategy and Educational Market Momentum

Mobile, AL (PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- Callis Communications, a leading regional provider of hosted telephony and managed Voice-over-IP (VoIP) services for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), today announced the latest two deployments of its Voicepath solution for the University of Mobile and St. Andrew's Episcopal School. The new customers mark the company's deepening penetration of the educational market, along with the expansion of its evolving green strategy and service area to new metropolitan markets in Mississippi.

Having outgrown their aging PBX system and in need of a system that could add phone extensions, the University of Mobile chose Callis Voicepath, an integrated suite of next-generation, fully-managed IP services, to power 750 phones at its 20- building campus in Mobile, Ala. Callis has also added wireless Internet to every dorm room at the school, which has nearly 1,600 students.

"The University had limited staff, which we were able to augment during the rollout," said Dean Parker president and CEO of Callis. "We built an IP telephony infrastructure that helps them stay competitive in providing amenities to current and prospective students, while reducing their up-front costs."

Mark Foley, president of the University of Mobile, said, "We chose Callis for two reasons: first, their ability to design a solution based on our needs and, second, their dedication to an unmatched level of customer service. We couldn't be more pleased about our partnership with Callis."

In need of reliable voice and data services at a lower, more predictable cost, St. Andrew's Episcopal School also selected Voicepath for its two K-12 campuses in Jackson and Ridgeland, Miss. The solution also provides a reliable broadcast system for emergency alerts during threatening weather or other crisis situations via loudspeakers in common areas and classroom phones.

The implementation follows the successful model recently established by Callis with White-Spunner Construction in Mobile, Ala., to help its customers achieve environmental-friendly energy efficiency. This approach involves deploying phones throughout customer sites powered by a central source, rather than plugging each phone into individual power outlets. Two redundant common switches with one power source enable the phone network, data network and power supply to run over the same wires.

In addition, Voicepath is provisioned on one common telephone switch that feeds to a private network that runs back to Callis's network operations center , eliminating the need for a traditional system that can pull 20 to 30 amps of power on its own. As a result, St. Andrew's has a green solution that reduces its energy consumption by at least 50 percent over alternative offerings.

About Callis:
Callis Communications, based in Mobile, Alabama, is a leading facilities-based Competitive Local Exchange Carrier and ISP providing hosted IP solutions to small and medium-sized companies in key southeast business markets. Callis has been recognized as an Inc. 5000 company, with an annual growth rate of nearly 500 percent and customer retention rate of 99.99 percent. Its Voicepath suite of fully-managed IP applications includes hosted PBX, local and long distance service, data backup, server collocation, and domain/email/website hosting, all backed by a highly-reliable, redundant network and its innovative 5-1-1 service for 24x7 customer support. For additional information, visit www.mycallis.com or call 251-662-8300.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:26 AM | Comments (0)

NAIOP Awards Aardex 2008 National "Green Development Award"

Innovative Colorado real estate developer, Aardex, wins National NAIOP Green Development of the Year Award. Its building, the Signature Centre, continues to command national attention for its focus on worker health and productivity.

Golden, CO (PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- Aardex LLC, a full service design, development and construction firm, has been named "Green Developer of the Year" by the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties, the nation's leading organization representing the interests of commercial real estate executives engaged in industrial, office and mixed-use development.

The company was honored for its "Signature Centre" building, Colorado's first commercial LEED Platinum office structure.

"This project continues to symbolize the innovation, creativity and sustainable approach that our members are utilizing to develop model properties," said NAIOP President Thomas J. Bisacquino.

"The value of this building can be summed up in two words, air and light," said Ben Weeks, Aardex principal in charge of the project. "Worker productivity soars when the individual can control his or her own thermal comfort in the presence of abundant natural light."

"And, when that happens, the entire paradigm of commercial real estate changes," added Rick Butler, Aardex founder and CEO. "If a building can contribute just a 5% increase in worker productivity, that increase goes a long way toward the building actually paying for itself."

The Signature Centre, a five story structure, features underfloor air throughout the 186,000sf building with individual temperature and ventilation controls. Daylight harvesting via interior and exterior light shelving, state-of-the-art glass and individual lighting showcase the many features promoting productivity and creativity in this state-of-the-art workplace.

Applicants were judged on a number of criteria, including sustainable sites, indoor environmental quality, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, economic viability and other sustainable attributes. Entries for the award were reviewed by industry leaders, including members of the U.S. Green Building Council and its affiliate, the Green Building Alliance.

NAIOP created the Green Building Award in 2005 to recognize the growing number of firms engaged in green development. NAIOP and its member companies are committed to developing model properties adhering to the highest standards in the industry and believe that socially conscious development is essential to the economic vitality of the industry and the nation.

The award will be presented to Aardex during a special ceremony sponsored by Liberty Property Trust and Swinerton Inc. on Tuesday, October 21, at NAIOP's development '08: the annual meeting for commercial real estate, in Las Vegas.

About Aardex LLC: Founded in 1983, Aardex LLC is a development, design, construction and property services firm based in Denver. A recognized leader in build-to-suit, Aardex authored User Effective® Buildings in 2004, a methodology that champions worker productivity in the workplace. The company is committed to reflecting the highest standards in sustainability in all of its business lines - office, healthcare, hospitality and mixed use. Learn more at www.aardex.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:25 AM | Comments (0)

Michelle Kaufmann, Leading Green Architect and Lifestyle Expert, Completes 30 Homes, Sees Business Triple Over Past Year

Michelle Kaufmann makes it easier to go green by prepackaging green solutions for homebuyers and developers seeking energy, water, and cost efficient homes, and healthy environments. As demand for green housing rises, two major museum exhibits--Smart Home and Home Delivery--highlight the promise of modular building.

Oakland, CA (PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- Demand for green homes is on the rise according to Michelle Kaufmann, award-winning green architect and sustainable living expert, who has seen her architecture business triple over the past year. Michelle Kaufmann Companies, http://www.mkd-arc.com/, which recently completed its thirtieth (30th) home, focuses on making beautiful, thoughtful design accessible to more people by employing prefabricated modular building practices and prepackaging green solutions.

"Despite the 'doom-and-gloom' housing market, we've never been busier," said Michelle Kaufmann, founder and chairwoman of Michelle Kaufmann Companies. "There's an enormous demand from homebuyers, who want beautiful homes and healthy environments as well as the lower energy bills that come along with our homes."

With two major museum exhibits focused on prefabricated building--New York Museum of Modern Art's (MOMA) Home Delivery: Fabricating the Modern Dwelling and Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry's Smart Home: Green and Wired, which features Michelle Kaufmann's mkSolaire™--interest in green prefab building is at an all-time high.

"People are actually living in our homes, so for us green, modular design isn't a concept, it's a reality," explained Michelle. "Our company has built more homes for clients than any other firm in the modern modular architecture world--with hundreds more in the pipeline. We're thrilled that our company is well on its way to delivering thoughtful, sustainable design to the masses."

By reducing resource consumption, waste, costs, and building time by up to 50%-75% over conventional building methods, Michelle Kaufmann's prefabricated, modular building techniques deliver benefits to individual homebuyers as well as builders/developers, who are interested in building green multi-family and community developments.

When designing any space, Michelle Kaufmann creates sustainable structures based on 5 EcoPrinciples: smart design, eco materials, energy efficiency, water conservation, and healthy environment.

Michelle Kaufmann offers six modular configurations--Glidehouse™, Sunset® BreezehouseTM, Sidebreeze™, mkLotusTM, mkLoftTM, and mkSolaire™--as well as custom homes and larger multi-family and community developments.

Michelle Kaufmann offers six modular configurations--Glidehouse™, Sunset® BreezehouseTM, Sidebreeze™, mkLotusTM, mkLoftTM, and mkSolaire™--as well as custom homes and larger multi-family and community developments.

Ms. Kaufmann unveiled the first mkSolaire™ home as part of the original Museum of Science and Industry exhibit Smart Home: Green + Wired, Powered by ComEd and Warmed by Peoples Gas. The exhibit opened in Chicago May 8, 2008 and will run through January 4, 2009.

About Michelle Kaufmann Companies
Michelle Kaufmann (AIA, LEED® AP) is a tireless advocate and knowledgeable source for eco-conscious living. Michelle founded Michelle Kaufmann Companies with the mission to make it easier for people to build green and live a more sustainable lifestyle. To that end, Michelle Kaufmann leads a full service design/build architectural firm that uses off-site modular technology and prepackaged green solutions as the means to create beautiful, eco-friendly homes and multi-family develoments. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Oakland, CA, the company expanded to run its own factory delivering homes for clients on the West Coast. Michelle Kaufmann Companies also works with key factory partners to handle increasing volume and expanded territories.

Interested in connecting with people beyond traditional architecture, Michelle has launched a collection of lifestyle media properties, products, and events designed to inspire individuals, families, and communities to create and enjoy sustainable lifestyles.

Visit Michelle's blog at www.blog.michellekaufmann.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:24 AM | Comments (0)

Missouri One Call Offers Free On-line Excavator Safety Training Through Diggingsafely.com

Missouri is the first state to offer free on-line excavation safety training in collaboration with www.diggingsafely.com. The custom built course for utility and other excavation personnel went on-line August 15, 2008 at www.mo1call.com, the official Missouri One Call System, Inc., (MOCS) website. All excavators, utilities and homeowners are encouraged to go to the Missouri site before any underground construction begins.

Minneapolis, MN (PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- Missouri is the first state to offer free on-line excavation safety training in collaboration with Diggingsafely.com. The custom built course for utility and other excavation personnel went on-line August 15, 2008 at www.mo1call.com, the official Missouri One Call System, Inc., (MOCS) website. All excavators, utilities and homeowners are encouraged to go to the Missouri site before any underground construction begins.

"We wanted to add the on-line option to our regular classroom sessions," explained William E. Dexheimer, Field Manager for MOCS, "excavators can complete the training at their convenience and we can score the results and keep a record of completion. The team at Midwest ENERGY Association combined our requirements with their Diggingsafely.com national excavation safety service and produced a unique Missouri course. The collaboration has been excellent. We especially like the ability to update the course and adjust it to insure learning is effective."

"Even though Missouri state law requires everyone to call us at 1-800-DIG-RITE or call the national 811 number, we must constantly encourage people to make the call or go to our website to request that underground utilities are marked prior to excavation," continued Dexheimer, "with the new course, there is even more enticement to go to our website. Damage to underground utility lines not only is costly and inconveniences customers, it can also be dangerous for excavation employees."

Midwest ENERGY Association, the national leader in providing on-line training for utility industry field employees used its experience in creating over 200 on-line courses to create the free Diggingsafely.com site where anyone interested in excavation safety can learn.

"We built the primary course at the Diggingsafely.com site," said Patrick Van Beek, President of the Midwest Energy Association, "based on the underground damage prevention best practices of the Common Ground Alliance, a national coalition of electric, gas, water, cable, telecommunications, and rail companies. Don Szambelan, our Chief Learning Officer and his team then offered to customize the course on a state by state basis. Missouri was the first to step up. They wanted Missouri specific information on regulations and procedures as well as excavation safety training. Other state one call systems are interested and we look forward to working with them. Damage prevention is in everyone's interest."

For more information go to:
www.mo1call.com or contact William E. Dexheimer at 573-635-1818
www.diggingsafely.com or contact Larry Murray at 651-289-9600 x101

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:23 AM | Comments (0)

GOLFAX, LTD. & US GOLF COMPANY Division Acquires CLASSIC GREENS & 888-4EZ-LAWN'S Green-Friendly Synthetic Turf Franchise

GOLFAX, LTD. officially announces the acquisition and launch of the US GOLF COMPANY and its exclusive CLASSIC GREENS (TM) & 888-4EZ-LAWN'S (TM) synthetic turf and custom yard landscaping regional franchise business.

Highlands Ranch, CO (PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- GOLFAX, LTD. (Stock Symbol: GLFX) officially announces the acquisition and launch of the US GOLF COMPANY and its exclusive CLASSIC GREENS (TM) & 888-4EZ-LAWN'S (TM) synthetic turf and custom yard landscaping regional franchise business.

US Golf Company - On December 15, 2007, GOLFAX, LTD., a former golf scorecard printing and faxing company originally started in 1985, changed management and acquired the full rights and assets of the 'US GOLF COMPANY' (TM), a specialty golf product and custom yard landscaping company. GOLFAX intends to operate and expand the US GOLF COMPANY specialty golf products business and custom yard landscaping network in Colorado, Arizona, Las Vegas, and regionally throughout the Southwest and United States.

On June 18th, 2008, GOLFAX, LTD, acquired the full rights & trademarks to CLASSICGREENS.com and 1-888-4EZ-LAWN's Toll-Free Phone Number to market its exclusive franchise brand of synthetic putting greens and artificial lawns. Also on June 18th, 2008, Golfax acquired a minority equity position in the AZDesignBuild.com Group, which is the exclusive Arizona regional franchisee contractor of Classic Greens & 888-4EZ-LAWNS synthetic turf lawns.

GOLFAX intends to expand its regional synthetic turf franchise and referral network through-out the United States via the new USA Design Build & US Custom Yards contractor networks, featuring CLASSIC GREENS & 888-4EZ-LAWN's product lines.

Visit www.AZCustomYards.com for more landscaping ideas and information. AZ Custom Yards can provide full 3-D design and architecture service for special building projects. We design and build full back-yards, water features, barbecues, pools and sport courts, and offer complete general contractor construction services. We sell and install green-friendly synthetic lawns and putting greens and xeriscaped (low water, low maintenance) landscapes.

US GOLF COMPANY is also pleased to announce the launch of its US GOLF MAGAZINE & ONLINE CATALOG and the release of its limited edition BLACK SAND WEDGE (TM) golf sand wedge, a cutting edge golf club technology including milled face and low-torque shaft. Visit www.BlackSandWedge.com for more information on this specialty golf wedge, and please visit www.USGolfMag.com for the feature new online US Golf publication.

About Golfax
GOLFAX, LTD. (Stock Symbol: GLFX) is a public golf company featuring US Golf Company & US Golf Magazine, and Classic Greens & 1-888-4EZ-LAWNS. GLFX intends to expand its green-friendly landscape marketing and installation business regionally with additional contractor providers, and to expand its specialty golf product sales and green-technology acquisitions business.

To Order Golf Products or find out more about Custom Synthetic Turf Yards, please visit www.ClassicGreens.com & www.AZCustomYards.com or call: Arizona Local # 480-588-1908 for a free in home estimate and quote.

For Golfax Corporate or GLFX Share-Holder Information, call toll-free # 1-866-993-5050 or visit www.Golfax.Org

GOLFAX, LTD. (Stock Symbol: GLFX) / US GOLF COMPANY / AZ CUSTOM YARDS / CLASSIC GREENS
---
Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

We caution that any forward-looking statements (as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) contained in this press release or related materials involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change based on various important factors, many of which are beyond our control. Accordingly, our future performance and financial results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such forward-looking statements. Words such as "estimate," "project," "plan," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "planned," "potential" and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements. Risks associated with the following factors, among others, in some cases have affected and in the future could affect our financial performance and actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements included in this press release or related information.

For More Information Contact - Golfax & US Golf Co at 866-993-5050, or Visit www.Golfax.Org or www.USGolfCo.com for More Information.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:23 AM | Comments (0)

FindAnyFloor.com Leading the Way in Website Accessibility

Section 508 Compliance Opens the Door for All Users

Las Vegas, NV (PRWEB) August 19, 2008 -- FindAnyFloor.com, "The Web's flooring authority," has taken another big progressive step. By year's end, FindAnyFloor.com and its partner sites - Pro.FindAnyFloor.com and Green.FindAnyFloor.com - will be Section 508 compliant.

508 compliance means these sites will be fully accessible by people with disabilities. While federal agencies are required to be 508 compliant by law, the private sector has not been quick to follow suit. FindAnyFloor.com founder and CEO Damien Patton recognized the real need for 508 compliance for his latest venture.

"As an organization we have chosen to embrace an environment of accessibility despite the additional time and expense involved," said Patton. "Our goal is to make sure that our flooring information is available to everyone."

Making the Internet Section 508 compliant will open up a wealth of information to the approximately 60 million people in the U.S. alone who have some form of disability. FindAnyFloor.com provides consumers with a one-stop reference resource on various flooring types, such as bamboo, carpet, cork, hardwood, stone, vinyl and more. In addition, site visitors will be able to access floor buying and installation guides, a glossary of flooring terms, an "Ask The Expert" function and an exhaustive "Find It Locally" tool. With the latter, users can find over 60,000 flooring retailers, installers and cleaners - all conveniently listed and flagged on a Google map - just by entering their zip code.

Some of the Section 508 features that the trio of sites will feature include coding for the use of assisted devices, no excessive use of Flash visuals, and closed captions on all videos with sound. For more information about the sites' accessibility features visit http://www.FindAnyFloor.com/accessibility.xhtml

About FindAnyFloor.com: FindAnyFloor.com is striving to be the world's largest floor covering information site and social community. The site is a free resource for consumers as well as flooring professionals on all subjects related to flooring. The site also provides interactive tools for the flooring do-it-yourselfer and professional alike. FindAnyFloor.com is proud to be working towards becoming Section 508 compliant and a fully accessible site for all visitors.

About Damien Patton: Damien successfully created Pacific Imports International, a large floor covering distributor that he sold in 2007. The company maintained offices in Asia and the United States and became a premier distributor and retailer of bamboo and hardwood flooring. Damien is the Founder and CEO of FindAnyFloor.com, the end result of his vision to have the largest and most accessible floor covering resource and social community on the Web.

Contact:
Shannon Lang
FindAnyFloor.com Press Room
Ph: 702-242-9663
www.FindAnyFloor.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:22 AM | Comments (0)

InventHelp Client Invents "Help Up There" - A Helpful Ladder Accessory Invention

InventHelp® is attempting to submit the invention to companies for review.

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) August 20, 2008 -- InventHelp®, America's largest inventor service company, announces that one of its clients, an inventor from Bosque Farms, N.M., has designed a ladder-mounted storage unit for tools and supplies. This invention is patented and a prototype is available.

The "Help Up There" would ensure tools and supplies are readily available, which would enhance convenience for the user. The invention could prevent the user from dropping tools and supplies, which could eliminate associated messes or injuries. The accessory would ensure that tools and supplies do not obstruct the steps of the ladder. Ideal for construction workers and do-it-yourselfers, the Help Up There would feature a stable and easy-to-use design.

The Help Up There would consist of a unit that would feature a vertically oriented, trapezoidal framework, which would be producible from plastic, aluminum or wood. The unit would feature storage space for a pan containing sheetrock mud as well as recessed bins for the storage of screws and nails. The bottom of the unit would feature a hole or holster for the storage of a cordless drill. The top rear of the unit would feature a bracket to allow it to hang from the top of a ladder. A user would place necessary supplies in the storage compartments and hang the unit from the ladder.

InventHelp® is attempting to submit the invention to companies for review. If substantial interest is expressed, the company will attempt to negotiate for a sale or royalties for the inventor. For more information, telephone Dept. 04-TKG-4585 at (800) 851-6030. Learn more about InventHelp® and their Invention Submission services at http://www.inventhelp.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:21 AM | Comments (0)

New Orleans-based South Coast Solar Is Tapped by Brad Pitt's "Make It Right" to Be Solar Energy Provider for Foundation's Homes

South Coast Solar awarded contract after competing in nationwide RFP; Local solar energy company to provide solar panels and installation services for the first Make It Right homes in Lower 9th Ward.

New Orleans, LA (PRWEB) August 19, 2008 -- Today, executives with New Orleans-based South Coast Solar, Louisiana's leading provider of solar electric panels, solar hot water heaters, and solar pool heating products announced that the Company has been chosen to be the solar energy provider and consultant for the first Make It Right homes under construction in the Lower 9th Ward.

"We are proud to have been selected by Make It Right New Orleans for this important residential project in New Orleans. As lifelong residents of the city, my partners and I are committed to rebuilding New Orleans greener and more energy-efficient than before Hurricane Katrina. The utilization of solar power for these homes will enable these returning homeowners to live in more environmentally responsible homes that use less energy, which for the homeowners will translate into significantly lower energy bills," says Troy Von Otnott, President of South Coast Solar.

In addition to meeting the qualifications of the RFP, South Coast Solar meets Make It Right's objective of utilizing as many local resources as possible. South Coast Solar will design and install the rooftop solar energy systems for these Make It Right homes. Solar energy design has commenced on the first six homes, some of which are expected to be completed by August 29, 2008, the third anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Installation of each solar energy system takes only one day.

About South Coast Solar:
South Coast Solar, headquartered in New Orleans, LA, is Louisiana's leading solar energy company specializing in both renewable energy systems and energy efficiency products and services. The company provides design and installation of solar energy systems for residences, multi-family apartments, hotels, restaurants and commercial businesses. SCS provides solar electric panels, solar hot water heater systems and solar pool heating products. The company represents the top solar product manufacturers in the world including SunPower, Schuco, Enerworks and Heliocol. SCS is the only authorized dealer of SunPower in Louisiana. SunPower designs, manufactures and delivers the highest-efficiency solar electric technology worldwide. For more information on the company, visit www.southcoastsolar.com.

About Make It Right:
Make It Right's mission is built upon catalyzing redevelopment of the Lower 9th Ward by building a neighborhood of safe and healthy homes that incorporate modern, high-quality design and construction while preserving the spirit of the community's culture. Make It Right is committed to building 150 houses in the Lower 9th Ward; ensuring a green, affordable, sustainable, and replicable community to serve as a model for further rebuilding; including the Lower 9th Ward community as an integral part of the process; and a finance plan that ensures that residents who wish to return to the Lower 9th Ward can do so without further financial hardship. For more information on Make It Right visit, www.makeitrightnola.org.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:21 AM | Comments (0)

Wet Design Realizes Success with Afterburner's Flawless Execution Methodology

Wet Design, creator of spectacular water features and perhaps best known for its 9-acre lake of animated fountains at the Bellagio, Las Vegas, has long practiced and espoused the benefits of lean manufacturing. In seeking to apply the same efficiency to all aspects of its business processes, Wet Design has partnered with Afterburner, Inc. with a commitment to support an ongoing program designed to educate employees in the principles and techniques of Flawless ExecutionSM.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) August 19, 2008 -- Wet Design, creator of spectacular water features and perhaps best known for its 9-acre lake of animated fountains at the Bellagio, Las Vegas, has long practiced and espoused the benefits of lean manufacturing. In seeking to apply the same efficiency to all aspects of its business processes, Wet Design has partnered with Afterburner, Inc. with a commitment to support an ongoing program designed to educate employees in the principles and techniques of Flawless ExecutionSM.

It has been said that Wet Design's CEO, Mark Fuller, has a talent for unconventional thinking. It was, therefore, not surprising that after reading Flawless Execution by James D. Murphy, founder & CEO of Afterburner, Inc., Mr. Fuller asked his team to read the book and then investigate. Afterburner's project leader, Jim 'Boots' Demarest, was then invited to share the Flawless Execution methodology with the Wet Design team. The methodology, born from fighter aviation, is a continuous improvement process that incorporates four steps: Plan-Brief-Execute-Debrief.

According to Harvey Goldstein, V.P. Marketing for Wet Design, one of the appeals of Flawless Execution is that it is "universally applicable and makes sense because it has been real world tested." Despite his initial concerns that the military aspects of the program would prove too counter-cultural to Wet Design's creative/entertainment-based philosophy, Mr. Goldstein said that within a month team members began to see how easy it was to adopt. Before anyone realized it, the Plan-Brief-Execute-Debrief methodology took root in the daily routines of people in the company and execution began to improve.

Jason Hall, V.P. of Achieving Excellence and Manufacturing at Wet Design, was truly impressed by the way Jim 'Boots' Bemarest "came in, became one of us, fit in, dug in, and understood our business enough to help us get more aligned with our goals. He taught us how to discipline ourselves and have the accountabilities built into the plans."

Mr. Hall's "Kaisan" (from the Japanese meaning "change for the better") training taught him how to get production up to speed but not how to manage production, hold people accountable, or organize and plan. By incorporating the Flawless Execution process into the Kaisan, he has been able to change the management of the line assembly area. The team now plans, briefs team leads, incorporates changes and executes, then debriefs at the end of the shift. It used to take 18 hours to build 10 "fire shooters". The same number is now achieved in just 8 hours. "The Afterburner methodology helps us react quickly to the abnormalities of manufacturing that occur on a daily basis… unchecked, the abnormalities throw everything into an emergency mode which turns into one big avalanche and then you just can't plan and execute."

About Afterburner

Afterburner, Inc. is an international management training company that teaches the techniques of Flawless Execution and peak performance, born in the high-reliability environment of fighter aviation, to the world's top corporations through keynote speaking, corporate teambuilding events, seminar workshops and leadership development. Afterburner has trained the sales teams and top executives of more than 100 of the Fortune 500 companies. Inc. magazine has named Afterburner to its prestigious Inc. 500 LIST twice. Over the past two years the company has expanded its operations to Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom. For additional information, please contact Afterburner at (800) 261-2912.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:20 AM | Comments (0)

ClickSafety Passes 2 Million Courses Milestone, Announces Winner

ClickSafety.com, Inc., the market leader in online construction safety training solutions, surpassed the two-million-courses-delivered mark on August 1, 2008.

Alamo, CA (PRWEB) August 19, 2008 –- ClickSafety.com, Inc., the market leader in online construction safety training solutions, surpassed the two-million-courses-delivered mark on August 1, 2008. The company announced the sale of its one millionth course in March 2007.

“Reaching this milestone is exciting for the entire team,” said Eric King, CEO of ClickSafety. “Each of our clients played a role in helping us achieve this goal, and we hope they’ll join us in our journey to three million.”

ClickSafety celebrated the milestone by giving away a 46” Sharp LCD flat panel TV to user Curt Carlsen; general superintendent for Perini Building Company, Inc. Carlsen completed the two-millionth course in Reno, NV as part of a company-wide training program.

“Safety is the most important aspect of any job,” said Carlsen. “Our goal at Perini is to ensure that each of our staff and subcontractors undergoes proper safety training. Proper training and awareness of our surroundings is what sets Perini apart from the others."

Perini recently partnered with ClickSafety to take advantage of ClickSafety’s construction-focused content and extensive online training library.

About ClickSafety.com, Inc.
ClickSafety.com (www.clicksafety.com) is an award winning online safety management application designed by and for safety training professionals. ClickSafety.com, Inc., located in Alamo, Calif., provides Web-based learning and documentation solutions that help organizations execute their safety training objectives. Over the past nine years, ClickSafety’s e-learning solutions have been deployed in over 6,100 organizations worldwide. Corporations have come to rely on the scalability, security and flexibility of ClickSafety’s solutions to increase productivity and reduce operating expense.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:20 AM | Comments (0)

Turner Construction Attains Safety Milestone

Top General Contractor Accumulates Over Five Million Safety Observations

San Carlos, Calif. (Vocus/PRWEB ) August 19, 2008 -- Turner Construction Company has amassed more than five million safety observations using the DBO2 SafetyNet system, which was first implemented in November 2004. This safety milestone was commemorated at the 50 Connell Project in Berkeley Heights, NJ--where the five millionth observation was recorded--on August 5, 2008.

DBO2's leading product, SafetyNet, helps companies at risk for catastrophic loss to track and measure the leading indicators in their safety systems--and to evaluate how effective, affordable and sustainable these systems are on an ongoing basis.

"DBO2 SafetyNet has generated a wealth of information on safety performance and trending--both for Turner and our subcontractors," says Cindy DePrater, Vice President and Corporate Director of Safety and Loss Control. "With DBO2, we have the ability to tie together 45 of our business units across the nation and to track subcontractor progress in implementing Turner's safety program and our requirements above and beyond OSHA. We have approximately 6000 ongoing projects at any one time and 280 full-time safety professionals who have a lot of ground to cover. DBO2 allows those safety professionals to really hone in on the subcontractors to create and raise awareness of our safety requirements and Building L.I.F.E. (Living Injury Free Everyday). The instant reporting that SafetyNet offers enables us to make the right decisions at the field and operational levels."

Safety Superintendent Richard Korner recorded the five millionth observation in the SafetyNet system and was informed by his project executive of the news. "It felt like I hit the lottery, that I was at the right place at the right time," he says. "But as I thought some more about it, I believed it could truly have happened to any one of us, in the course of walking our jobs and doing our best to keep each other out of harm's way."

Korner has been a SafetyNet user since January 2006. Since then, he has witnessed a rapid growth in overall usage and top-down involvement. "Over the last five years, it's just amazing how SafetyNet has caught on. I know that the project executives meet on a regular basis to discuss observations, who's making them, and which jobs are doing better than others. This information that we collect is something that's carried all the way up to the top and trickles back down."

Looking ahead, DePrater expects the next significant milestone to be deeper, more meaningful engagement with the system. "The five million observation milestone signifies engagement in the DBO2 SafetyNet system by everyone in our company," she says. "Next, we will focus on what people do with those nuggets of insight in order to continue to raise the bar on safety and loss prevention, not only for Turner but the industry as a whole. We're on the right track with improving the use of the system and extracting meaningful data that we can use for positive change."

Barry Nelson is CEO of DBO2 and is inspired by Turner's results. "Our entire team salutes Turner's commitment to using leading indicators to drive improved organizational, financial and safety performance. The dramatic and sustained positive results that Turner has derived from using both leading and lagging indicators provides a glimpse at the new standard for risk and safety management," he says.

About Design Build Own Operate Inc. (DBO2):
DBO2, located in San Carlos, CA, was founded in October 2001 and has emerged as a leader in measuring human error and its consequence in the workplace. DBO2 is a wholly owned subsidiary of Industrial Scientific Corporation, sharing a joint vision of "preserving human life on, above and below the earth." With more than 43 million observations, DBO2 has amassed the largest repository of workplace behaviors and conditions in the world. DBO2's SafetyNet, QualityNet and ProductivityNet software services are currently used on a daily basis at more than 7,000 worksites for some of the world's largest companies.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:19 AM | Comments (0)

As Food Prices Continue to Soar, American Families Can Rely on Their Freezers for Cost-Effective Meal Planning

New Frigidaire® Freezer Features Make it Easier to Stockpile Sale Items and Store Leftovers

AUGUSTA, Ga. (Business Wire EON/PRWEB ) August 19, 2008 -- With food prices increasing at the fastest pace in 17 years, more American families are preparing meals at home, using up leftovers and stocking up on sale food items. In fact, greater than half of financially challenged adults say they are utilizing all three of these meal-planning strategies more than they were one year ago1, which means, they're probably relying on their freezers for food solutions.

Just as freezers are becoming more important to American families than ever before, Frigidaire is introducing a new line of upright freezers with organizational that answer the demand for convenient, yet stylish kitchen appliances – perfect for the on-the-go mom or home entertainer. Take, for instance, this mother of five who relies on her freezer to help stockpile sale items that satisfy her large brood.

"I watch the inserts in my newspaper's weekly food section for the best deals. Sometimes I stock up on frozen pizzas, which slide nicely into the new Frigidaire Pizza Shelf where they can easily be accessed or surveyed for the next shopping trip," said Laura Dellutri, also known as The Healthy Housekeeper™. "Or, maybe lean ground beef catches my eye in the circular, and I spend the morning after my shopping trip seasoning, sautéing and storing enough for two month's worth of taco nights – my kids' favorite. After all, a properly organized freezer can save both money and time." Dellutri also offers imperative ice box information, including tips and recipes on Frigidaire.com.

Dellutri isn't the only mom looking to cut corners along with cost. Convenience is important as Americans are spending less time at home, leaving less time to plan dinner. In fact, according to an AC Nielsen survey, 60 percent of 18 to 44-year-olds say they are so busy during the day that making dinner needs to be easy – another way that the new Frigidaire upright freezer features can help.

FRIGIDAIRE FREEZER FEATURES

The days of opening the freezer door and wincing when meat falls on a toe, or having a bulky appliance that looks like it belongs in the basement are over. New Frigidaire upright freezers have been re-engineered from the inside out, with some of the most advanced features on the market that allow for organization and style:

* Precision Set Controls™ and Alarm: On the exterior of the front door, Precision-Set controls provide digital temperature readout as well as alarm settings for power loss and door ajar situations so food safety can be determined at a glance. Should a power loss occur, a high-temperature duration alarm informs how long (past one hour) the freezer has maintained a temperature in excess of 23 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Soft Freeze Zone: This bin remains warmer than the freezer interior for convenient storage of soft-freeze items, such as ice cream, and also helps guard against ice crystals. Say goodbye to bent spoons!
* Pizza Shelf: Store and access several pizzas easily, while leaving room for the storage shelf/area below.
* Adjustable Shelf Bookend Organizers: Snap-on adjustable shelf organizer keeps boxes of favorite frozen items upright and within reach. Book-end shelf organizers maximize storage area by stowing frozen, boxed foods upright.
* Fully Extendable Sliding Baskets: Convenient sliding baskets provide for quick and easy access. No more digging through bags of frozen vegetables to find the perfect side dish. Lower baskets can now be smoothly drawn out to show their contents while remaining firmly attached to the inner cabinet via secured guides.
* Store-More™ Tilt-Out Wire Door Bins: The tilt-out wire bin construction stores small packages and optimizes visibility while the tilt-out feature provides easy access.

THINK OUTSIDE OF THE ICE BOX

When it comes to kitchen appliances, style is just as important as convenience, as parties tend to end up in the kitchen. “The new Gallery Series uprights answer the consumer need for organization, while being the appliance that hosts will want to show off during a dinner party,” said Marty O’Gorman, Vice President and General Manager of Freezers for Frigidaire. “The new upright freezers feature Adjustable Shelf Bookend Organizers that maximize storage and make food easy to see at a glance, while also exhibiting elegance with the new curved door design.”

In addition to purchase price (the new freezers range in price from $399 to $799), O'Gorman recommends considering style, food safety, convenience and economy. A complete freezer buying guide can be found at Frigidaire.com.

About Frigidaire

Since 1918, families have made Frigidaire a trusted name in home appliances. The brand heritage is rich with quality products and lifestyle-improving innovations. Today, more than ever, Frigidaire provides the pioneering features of tomorrow with an emphasis on quality, trust and service. Visit www.frigidaire.com for more information on Frigidaire products or to download high-resolution product photos.

1 NPD Report "How Do Economically Challenging Times Affect In-Home Meal Strategies," April 9, 2008

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:16 AM | Comments (0)

High Energy Costs Predicted to Increase Further Through 2008

Energy-saving tips to cool down without heating up the budget.

Independence, OH (PRWEB) August 18, 2008 -- The United States Department of Energy's Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimates the average family will spend $2,350 on energy at home and $3,950 on gas for cars or trucks, totaling $6,300 per household in 2008. With rising gas prices, higher utilities and overall energy costs at an all-time high, Americans are struggling to manage their budgets.

"People typically only think of a home inspection when they are either buying or selling," states Kylene Golubski, VP Business Planning & Development for Inspect-It Property Inspection. "We can also help homeowners protect their home investment on an ongoing basis and potentially help decrease energy bills through annual maintenance inspections and home energy audits. You go to the doctor for a check-up, get tune-ups for your car, but what are you doing to maintain your largest investment? The old adage applies: 'An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.'"

Common energy and non-energy related defects discovered in a maintenance inspection include: compromised roof surfaces; improper ventilation; faulty electrical wiring; inadequate heating and cooling capacity for the structure; and substandard windows.

"Maintenance inspections give the homeowners the information they need to make smart investments," stated Golubski. The average person doesn't have the trained eye to identify these issues resulting in prolonged home inefficiency, or significant damage when the system or component actually fails."

The Alliance to Save Energy recommends homeowners take the following measures to help reduce energy costs:

1. Cook with your microwave. It uses 2/3 less energy than your stove.
2. Use your dishwasher (wait for a full load). It uses less water than washing dishes by hand.
3. Keep your fridge full. It keeps it from warming up too fast when the door is open.
4. Turn up your thermostat, and turn off the AC when you aren't home. You save 1-3% per degree for each degree the thermostat is set above 72 degrees.
5. Use cold or warm water when washing clothes, and always rinse in cold water.
6. Line dry clothes whenever possible, but only run the dryer with full loads.
7. Turn off appliances, lights and equipment when not in use.
8. Unplug electronic devices when not in use, as many use electricity even when switched off.
9. Replace AC filters monthly.
10. Weather strip, seal and caulk leaky doors and windows.
11. Use fans instead of AC units. They use less energy.
12. Replace old appliances with new and more energy efficient appliances.

Inspect-It 1st® is a rapidly growing franchise system of home inspectors offering property inspections for homeowners and business owners, and is a subsidiary of Merrymeeting, Inc. (MMI), a Cleveland-based investment firm specializing in the acquisition and development of franchise brands. Each franchise is independently owned and operated. MMI currently operates seven franchise systems with more than 1,700 franchised locations worldwide. To learn more, please visit www.inspectit1st.com or www.merrymtg.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:16 AM | Comments (0)

Safeguard Self Storage to Open New Self Storage Facility in Ebbets Field, NY

Safeguard Self Storage expands its presence in the New York self storage market with the opening of its newest location in Ebbets Field. This self storage facility offers the Ebbets Field community 707 storage units in a variety of sizes, with modern security features and many amenities.

Atlanta (PRWEB) August 18, 2008 -- Safeguard Self Storage, a premium provider of self storage solutions, recently opened its fifteenth operating location in the New York self storage market. This self storage facility, conveniently located at 115 Empire Boulevard in Ebbets Field, will help supplement this community's growing demand for high-quality storage units and self storage space.

Safeguard has an established presence in the metro New York and New Jersey areas, currently with more than 20 locations in these two states. As is typical of Safeguard's many locations, the Ebbets Field self storage facility is designed with security, convenience and customer service in mind. Amenities at this location include: Climate-controlled units (fully heated and air conditioned), a covered loading area, computer-controlled recorded access to the building, video recorded surveillance of the property, and individual door alarms on each unit.

"The Ebbets Field location, like all of our New York facilities, is designed to provide an exceptional customer experience. From its premium security features to the many amenities that make renting with us an easy storage option, this facility illustrates why Safeguard is a leader in the New York self storage market," explains Divisional Vice President Ken Finlay.

"Something that makes Safeguard unique is the relationships that we develop with our customers--they are very important to us," says Regional Vice President Andrew Khan. "We look forward to getting to know and serve the residents and business people of Ebbets Field. It's a great community and we're proud to be part of it."

Ebbets Field, NY Location:
Safeguard opened the Ebbets Field NY self storage location on August 8, 2008, with more than 100 pre-rentals. This facility has 707 storage units with a variety of unit sizes currently available. The Ebbets Field facility is led by Manager Keisha Richardson and Assistant Manager Gloria Alexander.

For more details, please call (516) 403-8549 or visit our website at safeguardit.com where you can reserve a self storage unit online.

About Safeguard Self Storage:
Safeguard was founded in New Orleans in 1989. As an industry leader, its brand hinges on high-quality, conveniently located facilities that feature innovative design, modern security and plentiful amenities. The company has over 70 self storage facility locations in FL, GA, IL, LA, NJ, NY, PA and VA. Headquartered in Atlanta, Safeguard defines success by meeting the expectations of its investors, customers and colleagues. Safeguard is a privately held company with a financial partnership with Morgan Stanley.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:16 AM | Comments (0)

EZ Screen Celebrates 12 Years of Topsoil Screeners

Argus Industrial Company, a manufacturer of EZ Screen portable dirt screeners, recently marked 12 years in business.

Pontiac, MI (PRWEB) August 18, 2008 -- For well over a decade, EZ Screen portable topsoil screeners have provided affordable alternatives for small and mid-size businesses. Now Argus Industrial Company has reached a new milestone: the manufacturers of the EZ Screen line recently celebrated their 12th anniversary.

"We're pleased to be able to continue offering our customers the same quality and value now as we did 12 years ago," said Al Skoropa, owner of the Argus Industrial Company. "We have expanded the EZ Screen line over the years, so now customers can choose between multiple machines to make sure they get something that meets their needs."

Argus Industrial started 12 years ago with the EZ Screen 1000, a portable topsoil screener that was specifically geared toward the smaller businesses. The line has grown to include six other portable screening products, ranging in size from small job screeners to heavy-duty machines. All of the EZ Screen dirt screeners are considerably more affordable than the other machines on the market.

"We originally designed the EZ Screen 1000 to fill a very specific niche," said Skoropa. "There were plenty of large screeners on the market at the time, ranging from $75,000 to several hundreds of thousands of dollars, but there was nothing to meet the needs of the small landscaper or contractor."

Argus Industrial's topsoil screeners are unique not only because of their affordability, but also because of their patented kinetic drive system. Instead of wasting the kinetic energy produced by the screening process, the EZ Screen machines harness this power and recycle it back into the machine. The result is a highly efficient machine that accomplishes more, and on less horsepower, than the competition.

"EZ Screen topsoil screeners are used in places all around the world," Skoropa said. "They do many different things, from screening sand and dirt for golf courses in the Caribbean, to screening in gold mines in Siberia."

For more information about Argus Industrial Company and their EZ Screen line of screeners and dirt screening plants, please visit their website or call 248-745-5828.

About EZ-Screen and Argus Industrial Company:
After 12 years of making topsoil screeners, Argus Industrial Company's EZ Screen line has become well known for its affordability and efficiency. A variety of models ensures that there is always an EZ Screen that is well suited for the job. In addition, EZ Screen's patented kinetic drive system maximizes the machine's efficiency, doing more with less horsepower. For more information about EZ Screen and the Argus Industrial Company, please visit http://www.ez-screen.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:16 AM | Comments (0)

Boxwood Partners Advises on the Sale of NMR and SealTech to Reinforced Plastic Systems, a Portfolio Company of Southfield Capital Advisors

Based in Mobile, Alabama, NMR is a leading manufacturer and innovator of engineered, custom-fabricated composite products including a broad range of flexible reinforced plastic and dual laminate piping and fittings, heavy ducting, and engineered composite panel products used in a variety of industrial applications.

Richmond, VA (PRWEB) August 19, 2008 -- Boxwood Partners, LLC is pleased to announce the strategic sale of Non Metallic Resources, Inc. (NMR) and SealTech, Inc. to Southfield RPS Holdings, Inc., d/b/a Reinforced Plastic Systems (RPS), a portfolio company of Southfield Capital Advisors. Boxwood Partners acted as the exclusive advisor to both NMR and SealTech with respect to the transaction. Terms were not disclosed.

Based in Mobile, Alabama, NMR is a leading manufacturer and innovator of engineered, custom-fabricated composite products including a broad range of flexible reinforced plastic and dual laminate piping and fittings, heavy ducting, and engineered composite panel products used in a variety of industrial applications. SealTech, a distinct company with common ownership with NMR, provides comprehensive field installation, maintenance, and repair services. The companies together provide turnkey, design-to-installation solutions for an international customer base that includes leading corporations in the power generation, chemical processing, pulp and paper, and mining markets, as well as the major engineering, construction services firms that serve these markets.

John Webster, the founder of NMR and SealTech, said "Both NMR and SealTech are great fits with RPS given their innovative products, engineering capabilities, installation and repair services, customer base, and most importantly their people. The NMR/Sealtech team looks forward to working together with RPS and Southfield to capitalize on the many exciting opportunities within the U.S. and internationally." Regarding Boxwood Partners, Webster added, "Boxwood was very knowledgeable, professional, and easy to work with - they really helped us achieve our goals and get this deal done."

About Reinforced Plastic Systems
Founded in 1956, Reinforced Plastic Systems provides custom corrosion-resistant composite products and related design, installation, and maintenance services primarily to the power, pollution control, chemical, pulp and paper, steel, mineral processing, and water/waste treatment industries. The company is headquartered in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia and operates eight facilities throughout the United States and Canada. RPS was acquired by Southfield Capital Advisors in January 2008.

About Southfield Capital Advisors
Southfield Capital Advisors is an operationally driven private investment firm focused on buying and building premier lower middle-market businesses in partnership with management. Founded in 2005, Southfield Capital provides equity for majority recapitalizations and management-led buy-outs of privately owned businesses and divisions of public companies. The firm manages $150 million in capital and seeks investments in companies generating $5-15 million of EBITDA based in North America with compelling business models, exceptional management teams, and attractive growth and profitability trends. Southfield Capital is headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut, with additional offices in Louisville, Kentucky and Alexandria, Virginia. For more information, visit www.southfieldcapital.com.

About Boxwood Partners
Boxwood Partners, LLC (www.boxwoodpartnersllc.com), together with its affiliate Boxwood Capital Partners, is an integrated mid-market investment banking and private investment management firm based in Richmond, Virginia. Boxwood Partners combines a unique blend of senior-level transaction advisory, business operating experience, and proven process execution skills to give its clients a distinct advantage in the market. The firm's extensive relationships within the global capital and buyer communities (including U.S. and international private equity groups, corporations, hedge funds, and lenders) and other important transaction-related service providers such as consultants, attorneys, and accountants ensure that the firm's clients receive the attention and service they deserve.

Contact: Bobby Morris
Phone: 804.343.3442

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 04:16 AM | Comments (0)

Recycled and Radon Free: Trend Q for Healthy Counters

Trend Q is an engineered agglomerate surface material with up to 72% post consumer recycled content. Manufactured in the USA, it can be installed over any existing surface. Trend Q comes in 49 luscious colors and many different sizes from 12" tiles to custom slabs.

Miami, FL (PRWEB) August 16, 2008 -- Trend Q is the new recycled stone agglomerate material that is scratch, heat, stain, water resistant and radon-free. Inspired by the beauty found in nature the 49 colors are evocative of organic hues ranging from the robin's egg blue, to stalks of wheat and mustard blossoms. Trend Q contains up to 72% post consumer recycled content integrated with glass from recycled beer, gin, and water bottles, copper infused Aventurina and mother of pearl to add sparkle and depth. Trend Q, available from 12" tiles to custom size panels, works on any surface including floors, counter tops, walls, staircases, even furniture. The flexible ¼" thin material makes it a perfect choice for remodeling, as it can be installed over existing surfaces making demolition and waste obsolete. Manufactured in the United States, Trend Q is designed to offer an ecologically conscious product, strong enough for any surface application for both residential and commercial use with the critical characteristics necessary to contribute to LEED certification. For more information about Trend Q please call #1.866.508.7363 or visit www.trendgroup-usa.com

TREND USA offers customized glass mosaic and agglomerates, which combine the tradition of sensual Italian beauty with American innovation. Together with provocative international artists we push the boundaries of technology to design materials and patterns that are vivid, luxurious, modern. We embrace challenges with a passionate commitment to develop solutions. The alchemy of glass, quartzite, granite and gold create alluring surfaces that inspire trends while honoring our Italian heritage.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:21 AM | Comments (0)

Green Building Best Practices 2008 is Almost Over

The fourth and final audio conference session is still open for registration. Don't miss out on this lively discussion by sustainability experts about the legal risks that accompany green building practices.

Bethesda, MD (PRWEB) August 15, 2008 -- The first ever Green Building Best Practices program has met with great success. Hundreds of building industry professionals from around the world have already participated in this educational series sponsored by WPL Publishing. The fourth and final session is expected to be no different.

The final session, on Aug. 20, will focus on legal risks and considerations of green building. WPL Publishing has gathered experienced attorneys and LEED-certified consultants to explain concerns and strategies for navigating the green building world. Highlights of the upcoming conference including present and emerging risks, third-party certification and governing law. A 10 to 15 minute interactive question period at the end of the presentation will allow participants to address specific concerns and questions. Contact information for the presenters will also be provided.

The first session opened the series with a discussion on design considerations. Representatives from CTG Energetics and Forest City Developers explained specific design issues that help maximize a building's performance and LEED points. Presenters emphasized the point that by investing in a building's design and engineering, an owner can save on costs throughout the lifecycle of the building.

Session two covered the construction phase, highlighting tips, techniques and concerns. LEED-Accredited Professionals from Clark Construction Group and Primera Engineers discussed how construction goals are just as important as design goals to achieve maximum building performance and certification. The presenters set up a simple framework for implementing good construction practices.

Building commissioning is the process of ensuring that all of a building's systems are designed, installed and working to fulfill an owner's needs efficiently. In the third session, LEED-APs from CTG Energetics and EMC Engineers explained the new requirement in LEED for New Construction. The presenters discussed how to best implement commissioning in new construction and existing buildings.

It is not too late to register for the last session and order CDs of the entire Green Building Best Practices 2008 series. The CD set comprises recordings and presentation materials for all four sessions, giving you best practices advice at your fingertips when you need it. The flexibility of our registration allows you to pick and choose which elements of the series are right for you. Registration and orders can be placed at www.greenbuildinginsider.com.

Green Building Insider (www.greenbuildinginsider.com) is a publication of WPL Publishing Co. Inc. and focuses on issues and news in the green building industry. In addition WPL Publishing produces two other construction-related newsletters, Construction Project Controls and BIM Report (www.projectcontrols.com) and Construction Claims Advisor (www.constructionclaims.com). Owner and publisher Paul Levin has published, written and contributed to numerous magazines and newsletters including ENR, ABC Today and Constructor. For more information about WPL Publishing and its newsletters, please visit www.projectcontrols.com. Queries may also be sent to editor@wpl.net or 301-983-4367 (fax).

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:21 AM | Comments (0)

MasterWoodCarvers Offers Exclusive Range of Stair Parts, Surrounds & Onlays

MasterWoodCarvers.com announces the sale of an exquisite range of Fireplace Mantles, Stair Parts such as Newels and Balusters, Surrounds and Onlays. Custom Carving Service is also offered.

Port Washington, NY (PRWEB) August 15, 2008 -- MasterWoodCarvers.com, a leading online store for hand carved hard wood products presents a unique range of Stair parts, Fireplace mantles, Surrounds and Onlays.

The virtual store designed by Bizatomic provides a wide variety of hand carved wood products including corbels, mantles, capitals, architectural posts, moldings, columns, stair parts such as Newels and Balusters, etc. Master Wood Carvers is an LLC that deals in exquisitely designed hand carved wood products crafted by 4th generation skilled carvers.

According to Mr. Alan Firestone, owner of Master Wood Carvers, "We sell state-of-the-art hand carved wood products made from Maple, Oak and Cherry. We also offer a Custom Carving Service, in which we provide special sizes and special woods such as Alder, Mahogany, Red Oak, Rubberwood, American Maple, American Cherry and White Oak. We have also worked for internationally known clients and our work can be found in many palatial homes around the world. Our classically designed wood products are based on Greek and Roman art-work. Another specialty of our carvers is that they handle both classical as well as contemporary designs with equal expertise. Hence, our hard wood products have both ancient and modern influence".

The company has now unveiled an exclusive range of stair parts such as Newels and Balusters, Classically designed Fireplace Mantles, Surrounds and Onlays. Newels and Balusters are available in two different sizes and two different motifs which can fit into any architectural design. Newels and Balusters are available in Maple, Oak and Cherry.

Carved wood Onlays can be used on fireplace mantles, mirrors, cabinets, picture frame etc. Fireplace Mantles offered by Master Wood Carvers are designed with classical style and have been inspired by old world mantles found in many palaces in Europe. Surrounds, such as corbels, are available in modern as well as Greek and Roman designs at the Master Wood Carvers website.

Mr. Firestone also said, 'All our hard wood products come with a one year guarantee. Fireplace mantles, stair parts (newels and baluster), onlays, surrounds etc. are carved out of kiln dried hard wood so that even the least amount of moisture is not able to deteriorate the wood product. We do not offer banisters along with newels and balusters as they are long in length and can be damaged if shipped. We recommend that the customer buy the banister from a local millwork dealer".

"The beautifully designed newels and balusters, mantles, etc. will definitely give your homes the elegance and glamour of palatial homes. The intricate hand carved newels and balusters can make your entrances grand and fancy. These decorous products are exceedingly functional and useful", quipped, Mr. Alan.

Other products available at MasterWoodCarvers.com are corbels, posts, capitals, moldings, columns, etc. Price range of these hard wood hand carved wood products is reasonable and affordable. In order to avail the custom carving service, simply fill out the 'Contact us' form present at the website.

About MasterWoodCarvers.com
An online store for hand carved wood products and supplies, such as corbels, posts, capitals, columns, balusters, mantles, etc. The virtual store is an extension of Master Wood Carvers, an LLC. Wood products available on the website are hand crafted by 4th generation old skilled carvers with over 40 years of experience in the wood industry. Kiln dried hardwoods, Maple, Oak and Cherry are primarily used for crafting hand carved wood products. Currently over 500 carvers are working for the LLC. Custom designing and custom carving services are also offered.

For more information, contact
Alan Firestone
Master Wood Carvers LLC
Port Washington, NY 11050
Phone: 516 767 7444
http://www.masterwoodcarvers.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:21 AM | Comments (0)

Grandwood Securities Represents Southern Aggregates in Strategic Sale to Vantacore Partners LP

Grandwood Securities LLC initiated transaction and advised Southern Aggregates LLC, an important aggregate supplier to Baton Rouge and Lafayette, LA, in a strategic sale to VantaCore Partners LP of New York.

New York, NY (PRWEB) August 15, 2008 -- Grandwood Securities LLC ("Grandwood") announces that it advised Southern Aggregates LLC ("Southern"), an important aggregate supplier to Baton Rouge and Lafayette, LA in a strategic sale to VantaCore Partners LP of New York ("VantaCore"). Grandwood initiated the transaction. Marc Dyess, who formed Southern in 2001 in conjunction with other members of Southern, following a 30-year career with Texas Industries, Inc. and Meridian Aggregates Company, will join VantaCore as Southern's General Manager.

"We are very happy about the transaction and we look forward to working together with the VantaCore team," said Marc Dyess. "We are very pleased with the efforts of Grandwood in initiating the transaction and executing the process in conjunction with Southern's other advisors. I feel they consistently worked extremely hard and went the extra step through difficult markets to achieve the best results for Southern and its owners."

We are excited about the acquisition of Southern for several reasons," said Colin Oerton, Chief Executive Officer of VantaCore. "Firstly, Southern has extensive reserves and is an important aggregate supplier to Baton Rouge and Lafayette, two of the largest cities in Louisiana. Second, Marc Dyess, with his extensive aggregate experience and Louisiana market knowledge will add significant depth to the VantaCore team. His strategy of finding, developing and marketing sand and gravel reserves has resulted in strong growth in sales and profits at Southern. Third, this acquisition extends VantaCore's geographic reach from our existing operations in Tennessee while continuing to validate our growth strategy."

$66.9 million in equity and debt financing was provided to partially finance the acquisition, to refinance existing debt at VantaCore and for general working capital purposes. $29.9 million in equity consisting of common units was provided by Kayne Anderson Energy Development Company (NYSE:KED) and Tortoise Capital Resource Corporation (NYSE:TTO). $37.0 million in first and second lien debt financing was provided by Wells Fargo Foothill, part of Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC), and Gladstone Capital Corporation (NASDAQ: GLAD).

About VantaCore Partners LP:
VantaCore is a non-traded, private limited partnership focused on acquiring competitively advantaged aggregate businesses in the domestic U.S. market. Its operations consist of an integrated limestone quarry (with permitted surface reserves in excess of 40 million tons) and dock facility, two asphalt plants and a commercial asphalt lay down business located in Clarksville, Tennessee. VantaCore's interest in retaining local company management, its financial structuring flexibility and seller sensitivity, facilitated the Partnership's ability to make this purchase and management expects that this will enable VantaCore to grow through acquisitions in the future.

About Grandwood Securities LLC:
Grandwood Securities LLC is an independent investment banking firm based in New York City serving the strategic needs of middle market companies. Visit Grandwood at www.grandwoodsecurities.com.

Contact:
Mylan Dawson
Grandwood Securities LLC
212-684-6300 ext 928
www.grandwoodsecurites.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:20 AM | Comments (0)

Trading Depot Launches Grohe Bathroom Showers and Taps Range

Trading Depot has launched a new brassware and taps section to its on-line web site - initially featuring the Grohe range of luxury taps and showers mixers.

Maidenhead, Buckinghamshire (PRWEB) August 15, 2008 --
Trading Depot has launched a new brassware and taps section to its on-line web site - initially featuring the Grohe range of luxury taps and showers mixers.

The range of Grohe taps is one of the most prestigious ranges available in the UK tap / brassware market and Trading Depot is delighted to have these available as the first range on their trading web site.

Grohe has an extensive range of bathroom taps featuring everything a bathroom needs from basin mixers to some of the most advanced shower systems. The Grohe manufacturing quality is also amongst the best available on the market with all products guaranteed for a period of 5 years for manufacturing related defects.

Trading Depot has initially listed the most popular ranges and products on its buy on-line web site, with a view to having a complete selection available shortly afterwards. The selected ranges and products cover a broad range of styles and suitable for low or high pressure systems.

Mat Miller, General Manager of Trading Depot said "The Grohe range is a beautifully designed range and we are delighted to be promoting it to our new and existing customers. The attention to detail and quality of the product is why we have decided to promote it as our first range of taps on our web site"

The Grohe showers will be complimenting the existing range of Aqualisa showers which have proven to be a very popular product line. Mat added "since we launched in March, Aqualisa showers have been an extremely popular range on our web site. We are now looking forward to the Grohe range being as popular with their unique technology such as Grohe DreamSpray ®, Grohe StarLight ® and Grohe SilkMove ® being valued by our customers"

Mat went on to say "We are looking forward to launching many more new products and ranges over the course of the next 18 months. We have thoroughly enjoyed the first few months of trading and have been very surprised at the level of interest in our existing products. We have backed the product range up with an excellent level of service which will be continued with the Grohe products despatched within 2-3 working days and the majority will be shipped with free delivery."

Commenting further on the product range, Mat said "The addition of the Grohe range to the web site has given it a more balanced feel and means we now have over 10,000 products to buy on-line. This will be further expanded when the new garden maintenance, hand tool and work wear sections are released".

For more information, visit http://www.tradingdepot.co.uk.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:20 AM | Comments (0)

Two Greater Philadelphia Area Businesses Team Up to Take Leadership Role in American Energy Independence

A top Philadelphia area Real Estate Agency and a Green Architect have united in their commitment to empower American homeowners to take action…all while regional and national elected officials and corporate decision makers flush out energy policies and plans.

Philadelphia, PA (PRWEB) August 15, 2008 -- FACT 1: According to the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, American adults spent $226 Billion on 'green' goods per year at the turn of the millennium. Sales of eco friendly products are growing at over 20% a year. The Home Remodeling industry accounts for over $240 Billion annually.

FACT 2: According to the US Department of Energy, over 40% of America's energy consumption and green house gases come from homes and buildings.

CONCLUSION: Every home presents an opportunity to reduce our dependence on overseas oil and help save the environment.

A top Philadelphia area Real Estate Agency and a Green Architect have united in their commitment to empower American homeowners to take action…all while regional and national elected officials and corporate decision makers flush out energy policies and plans.

David L. Bershad, President - RE/MAX Executive Realty, says, "RE/MAX Executive Realty recognizes the importance of energy efficiency for today's and tomorrow's homeowners. Our agents strive to fulfill our obligation to our clients and to the communities by learning as much as possible about GREEN homes. By partnering with GREENandSAVE.com, our agents are now armed with the ability to guide our buyers, sellers, and past clients towards making their properties more efficient. Homeowners can start small and learn about the payback time on light bulbs and programmable thermostats, or contact us to arrange for complete home energy evaluations at a discounted rate from the team of GREENandSAVE consultants. We are proud to take this first step towards the future, and we are excited to start providing these value added services to the public."

Charlie Szoradi, CEO - GREENandSAVE.com, says, "David Bershad's enthusiasm to go GREEN for his whole team of real estate agents has served as a true benchmark. In almost every state across America, we have individual agents in our directory and members of our Registered Agents Program. However, RE/MAX Executive Realty is the first broker in the region and in the country to make the commitment to empower all of their agents to use next generation green home information to save homeowners money and the environment. Now, over 50 agents in the lower and upper Philadelphia Main Line, who collectively connect to thousands of homeowners each year, have the marketing resources and Green Home Performance Guides to change the way that we think about our homes. Philadelphia is the home of American Independence and this benchmark brings us a little bit closer to making our Philadelphia region home to America's new energy independence."

About GREENandSAVE.com:
GREENandSAVE is a pioneer in the green movement. The company's founder Charlie Szoradi wrote his Masters of Architecture thesis in Green Design over 15 years ago at the University of Pennsylvania, and in the spring of 2008, Charlie was selected as the cover story profile of Inventors Digest Magazine. His energy independent home and the GREENandSAVE.com website have been featured in magazines ranging from Solution at Home to Metropolitan Home. Major online resources and the 150 year old institution, the American Institute of Architects, link in to GREENandSAVE.com as a top resource for their site visitors. Clear Channel Radio's Great Green Home Show also picked GREENandSAVE.com as "The BEST user-friendly site for Homeowners."

When it comes to energy and environmental advantages, the information and Return On Investment (ROI) calculations on GREENandSAVE.com are based on comprehensive research over the past four years and a combination of reports from the U.S. Department of Energy, (DOE) the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), ENERGY STAR® for Homes Program, US Green Building Council's LEED for Homes Program, American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), International Energy Conservation Code, PLUS information directly from Foundation and University Studies, Architects, Manufacturer Specifications, Distributors, seasoned Builders and Installers, and Homeowners with actual Performance Feedback. The content is typically based on a single family house with average utility demands for a family of four. The overall content online is intended to serve as a guide to help homeowners make decisions and see the hierarchy of performance and payback.

Each topic page includes the photographs, descriptions, ROI modeling, and a 'TAKE ACTION' section with information on the top rated products, links to Grants, Tax Credits, and Qualified Installers by zip code. Plus, homeowners can review the research and link directly in to the top rated places to make a purchase if they want to get started saving money and the environment.

About RE/MAX Executive Realty - www.ExecutiveRealty.com
RE/MAX Executive Realty has two offices conveniently located in Bryn Mawr and Wayne, serving Philadelphia's Main Line and beyond for 20 years. One stop shopping with Mortgage, Title and Homeowners Insurance allow clients to streamline their real estate transaction with one company.

Whether buying or selling residential real estate, RE/MAX Executive agents have the experience you need to have a successful transaction. As a group, RE/MAX Associates lead agents of competing companies in experience, education and production. They average more than 13 years of real estate experience and, across the network and hold a higher number of professional designations than agents of any single competitor. The average RE/MAX Associate out-produces competing agents three to one.

Carol McMichael, Broker - Owner founded the company in 1989 and continues to lead the company towards better customer service and market share. President David Bershad ensures that RE/MAX Executive is on the cutting edge of real estate trends and technology enabling agents to provide the best service available in the real estate industry.

RE/MAX has a true global presence with the name and balloon logo recognized all over the world and has the most visited real estate company website remax.com. With over 100,000 agents in over 62 countries, you can be sure you home is getting the exposure and marketing it deserves.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:11 AM | Comments (0)

Leopardo Construction Highlights 10 Solutions for Building Smarter, Offsetting Rising Construction Material Prices

In a recent white paper titled "Smart Construction," Leopardo Construction, one of the nation's premier construction companies and a recognized leader in sustainable building practices, highlights 10 economical building solutions for offsetting the skyrocketing material prices and realigning construction budgets with original expectations.

Hoffman Estates, Illinois (PRWEB) August 15, 2008 -- The perfect storm of soaring fuel costs and intensified global demand has caused major volatility and rapid escalations of construction material costs. Despite these obstacles, experienced builders have a variety of solutions for offsetting the escalating material costs and still developing new facilities for growth and expansion. In a recent white paper titled "Smart Construction," Leopardo Construction, one of the nation's premier construction companies and a recognized leader in sustainable building practices, highlights 10 economical building solutions for offsetting the skyrocketing material prices and realigning construction budgets with original expectations.

Since January 2004, the price per gallon of gasoline at the pump has risen 167 percent and diesel fuel has jumped 252 percent. The cost of fuel has a tremendous impact on petroleum-based materials such as plastic, asphalt, rubber, PVC, insulation and roofing shingles. The price of asphalt, for instance, increased 47 percent in the last 12 months. Beyond petroleum byproducts, every single construction material requires manufacturing and transportation - sometimes across thousands of miles - which consume fuel.

According to the Leopardo white paper, while fuel prices may eventually come back down, any signs of material price stabilization are in question for the foreseeable future because of the plummeting value of the U.S. dollar and massive global demand.

The 10 economical construction solutions Leopardo covers in its 16-page white paper include:

1. Avoiding scope creep and building lighter
2. Purchasing materials smarter and in bulk
3. Knowing where the construction dollars are spent
4. Changing the palette of materials
5. Building green and reaping the benefits
6. Integrating more revenue-generating space and features
7. Leveraging the contractor as a development partner
8. Bringing the builder onboard early or exploring the design-build delivery method
9. Fast tracking the project
10. Building smart, energy producing or self-powered projects

As the paper concludes, smart contractors truly understand that the term "saving" goes well beyond dollars and cents. They work hard to counsel clients on price escalations, material demands, supply shortages, alternative methods of construction, lifetime costs, efficiencies and impact on the environment. With a sophisticated builder onboard early, companies will have countless solutions for offsetting the rising material prices. For the complete 16-page paper, including in-depth solutions and examples, please visit http://www.leopardo.com.

Media Contact
Todd Andrlik
Leopardo Construction
847.783.3950 office
630.302.8633 cell
tandrlik @ leopardo.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:11 AM | Comments (0)

Local Las Vegas Businessman Goes from NASCAR Pit Crew to Internet Tech Frontier

Forward-Thinking Entrepreneur Unveils FindAnyFloor.com

Las Vegas (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- Businessman Damien Patton is the classic American success story. From humble beginnings in L.A., he has risen to the heights of success in business. Throw in tours of duty with the U.S. Navy in Desert Storm and Somalia; working as a top pit crew professional on the NASCAR circuit; and graduating magna cum laude from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a B.S. in Finance despite not finishing high school, and you get the picture.

''I'm a very competitive person,'' said Patton. "I always want to be the best I can be and I pride myself on learning from my mistakes."

A high-energy, Type A individual, Patton likes his challenges thick and fast. It's hardly surprising, then, that at one time he also served as a Crime Scene Investigator while working full time in a management role for a technology company. Once he moved into the entrepreneurial world, Patton created and managed Pacific Imports International (PII), a premier flooring operation in Honolulu, Hawaii. PII started as a distributor and retailer of hardwood and bamboo flooring and expanded its footprint into a contract manufacturer with offices in Las Vegas, Hawaii and China.

After years of hearing flooring customers comment about the lack of consistent and detailed flooring information available on the Internet, he decided to create what the customer thought was missing and FindAnyFloor.com was born.

A man of both charity and compassion, Patton brings these qualities to his work. He also has a concern for the environment that has led him to develop Green.FindAnyFloor.com. Not forgetting industry professionals, Patton also started Pro.FindAnyFloor.com, as he wanted somewhere for retailers, installers and floor cleaners to socialize other than a few times a year at tradeshows. And from the outset, he was determined that all his sites will be Section 508 accessible.

"Section 508 is part of the federal Rehabilitation Act and was put in place so that technology in all government agencies would be accessible to people with disabilities," said Patton. "We want to take a lead role in the private sector and try to spread the idea. Our goal is to get other commercial websites to realize there are millions of people who need a 508 level of access, and follow suit."

As the audience for his sites grow and his ideas gain popularity, Patton constantly looks to the future.

''We have a lot of plans,'' said Patton. "Besides our innovative ideas in covering and serving the flooring industry, we want to expand into green building information - not just green flooring. We want to take the technology and ideas we implement and move into other industries, always with an emphasis on accessibility."

With FindAnyFloor.com and its partner sites, Damien Patton has embraced a new challenge. It is one in which he sees the Internet as a powerful tool for the environment, and a basic right of the millions of people with disabilities.

About FindAnyFloor.com: FindAnyFloor.com is striving to be the world's largest floor covering information site and social community. The site is a free resource for consumers as well as flooring professionals on all subjects related to flooring. The site also provides interactive tools for the flooring do-it-yourselfer and professional alike. FindAnyFloor.com is proud to be working towards becoming Section 508 compliant and a fully accessible site for all visitors.

About Damien Patton: Damien successfully created Pacific Imports International, a large floor covering distributor that he sold in 2007. The company maintained offices in Asia and the United States and became a premier distributor and retailer of bamboo and hardwood flooring. Damien is the Founder and CEO of FindAnyFloor.com, the end result of his vision to have the largest and most accessible floor covering resource and social community on the Web.

Contact:
Damien Patton
Founder and CEO
Ph: 702-242-9663
www.FindAnyFloor.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:11 AM | Comments (0)

Disaster Mitigation and Jobs Creation Act of 2009: Saving Money, Creating Jobs

Dr. Stephen Blythe, a Family Physician in Florida, although only a candidate for congress at this time, has a simple legislative proposal that will create tens of thousands of jobs, if not more, lessen damages during natural disasters, and save money on insurance at the same time.

Melbourne, FL (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- Dr. Stephen Blythe, a Family Physician in Florida, although only a candidate for congress at this time, has a simple legislative proposal that will create tens of thousands of jobs, if not more, lessen damages during natural disasters, and save money on insurance at the same time.

"It's great when one single government program can address three major national problems" says Dr. Steve Blythe.

Blythe, a Melbourne Family Physician who is running for congress to represent Florida's 15th District on "the Space Coast", understands the strength of hurricanes after witnessing several up close and personal four years ago. "We were lucky" he says, "that we only had 115 miles-per-hour winds. Trees were down, power lines were down, and a lot of minimal to moderate roof damage was suffered, but we weren't wiped out like the Gulf Coast during Katrina." But like much of the country, Blythe's district has now been hit hard by te housing slump and layoffs in the construction industry. The economic slowdown is complicated here by huge increases in homeowner's insurance rates, with many homeowners paying $10,000 per year or more for insurance with $10,000 deductibles.

"The problem of job loss, expensive insurance and natural disasters is affecting many areas of our country," notes Blythe. "When I am elected to congress, the first bill I will introduce will be the Disaster Mitigation and Jobs Creation Act. This bill will establish a low-interest loan program to help homeowners in areas prone to floods, hurricanes, and wildfires harden their homes to these hazards. In coastal areas this will include hardening the roofs and replacing windows with hurricane-resistant windows capable of withstanding winds of 150 MPH." He points out that this will not only put construction workers back to work, it will lower insurance rates and lessen damages the next time a hurricane hits.

Likewise those in flood-prone areas could receive help raising their homes or even relocating their homes, and those in areas prone to wildfires could receive assistance with replacing roofing and siding materials as well as windows with fire-resistant ones. Blythe also notes that most windows are made regionally within the United States.

"Unlike many government projects," notes Blythe, "this one can help many Americans - even taxpayers who end up paying for disaster relief - as well as provide positive effects on the economy by putting hundreds of thousands of Americans back to work!"

Other issues for Dr. Blythe in his campaign include the 47 million Americans who lack health insurance. "I am in favor of a national health program that guarantees that NO American is denied needed care. The disparity in our health care system is looking more like that in a third-world country every day," says Blythe, who has provided medical care in a number of underdeveloped countries. "While we work towards a national health system I have plans to fix some of the blatant problems that make our system unaffordable for so many."

Blythe faces a primary election on August 26th followed by the general election in November.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:11 AM | Comments (0)

Online Land Auction Across Three States Gathers Momentum as Bid Deadline Nears

This is not your ordinary auction. No hotel ballroom or convention center - just the Internet. Nearly 7,000 acres of land in the southeastern United States is being offered in an Online Auction making it easier for buyers to conduct their due diligence and purchase properties.

Newport Beach, CA (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- With about six weeks until the bid deadline, the online auction (www.LFC.com/726R4) of fourteen land parcels, stretched across Mississippi, Alabama and Florida, continues to attract considerable interest from buyers.

The properties totaling more than 7,000 acres comprise of nine parcels located in northern Mississippi; one parcel outside Tuscaloosa, Alabama; and four parcels in Dixie County, Florida.

ALABAMA:
±474 acres in Fayette County

FLORIDA
±480 acres, ±1609 acres, ±1662 acres, ±3364 acres in Dixie County

MISSISSIPPI:
±43 acres, ±80 acres, and ±480 acres in Pontotoc County
±103 acres and ±151 acres in Benton County
±140 acres and ±154 acres in Lafayette County
±588 in Marshall County
±78 in Yalobusha County

Many of the properties once served as tree farms and still retain harvestable timber and timberland investment, while others offer development opportunities, or recreational use such as hunting.

It is important to note that the ±80 acres parcel located Pontotoc County is just a few miles from the proposed Toyota plant in Blue Springs, Miss. where the first U.S.-made Prius' will be manufactured.

"We have received a significant amount of interest in the properties on a local, regional and even international level. It's mostly due to the online nature of the auction," states Bill Lange, president of the LFC Group of Companies. "With property information, prelims, maps, and photos available to anyone with Internet access, the ability for a buyer to participate without even having to leave their computer makes it a viable and attractive way to purchase land."

The bid deadline is September 25, 2008. Prospective buyers are able to review important property and auction information, including documents, disclosures, images and maps, by visiting http://www.LFC.com/726R4.

LFC Group of Companies For more than 30 years, the LFC Group of Companies have served numerous Fortune 500 companies, real estate developers, investors, financial institutions and government agencies by auction marketing thousands of commercial, industrial, land and residential properties with an aggregate value well in excess of $5 billion. www.LFC.com (Commercial) www.FRE.com (Residential)

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:11 AM | Comments (0)

Menemsha Construction Solutions Announces New Team Member

Menemsha Construction Solutions is proud to announce and welcome Joshua Cool as its new Vice President of Architectural Services.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- Menemsha Construction Solutions is proud to announce and welcome Joshua Cool as its new Vice President of Architectural Services.

Mr. Cool will be responsible for developing and growing Menemsha's Architectural Services division. Mr. Cool brings over 12 years of experience in the retail design industry. He comes to Menemsha from Little Diversified Architectural Consulting, where he served as Studio Principal for Retail Store Design for four years. While at Little, Mr. Cool was responsible for studio management and implementation of design concepts for some of the world's largest brands in the restaurant, fashion and specialty retail industries.

Mr. Cool holds a Bachelor of Arts and Architecture from Montana State University. He brings a unique focus of integrating branding philosophies with complete project facilitation and management. "We are pleased to have Mr. Cool on board", says Mr. John Daigle, CEO of Menemsha. "Mr. Cool's process of beginning a project by identifying the emotional brand goals of the retailer and applying those goals through the roll out of the project fits nicely with Menemsha's philosophy."

Mr. Cool will be responsible for a team of 15, who cover all 50 states and will provide the leadership and tools necessary to support Menemsha's current clients while growing the Menemsha brand.

About Menemsha:
Menemsha Development Group, Inc. is a national management and development construction company. Menemsha specializes in providing complete retail solutions from architectural branding and design through project construction. Menemsha provides services on a regional and national level to Fortune 500 companies in the Banking & Financial Institution, Specialty Retail, Big Box and Food Service arenas. Menemsha's corporate office is located in Los Angeles, CA and they have a regional office located in Boston, MA.

Menemsha has serviced industry leaders such as Nike, Starbucks Coffee Company, The Home Depot, Limited Brands, Pinkberry, Victoria's Secret, Wachovia, and lululemon and many more since its inception in 1992. Visit www.menemshasolutions.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:11 AM | Comments (0)

DuPont Offers Secure and Reliable Shipping Solution for Global Customers

DuPont™ Tyvek® envelopes chosen by India Post for Speed Post and Insured Post.

New Delhi, India (Vocus/PRWEB ) August 14, 2008 -- DuPont today announced its latest partnership to develop customized solutions for shipping and posting consumer and business packages. The company is working with India Post to create protective envelopes for its Speed Post and Insured Post services -- the first such offerings in India.

Made of DuPont™ Tyvek® brand protective material, a nonwoven innovation from DuPont, the envelopes provide security and protection for their contents. Tyvek® has unique qualities including resistance to water, tears and abrasion, soft and smooth textures for printability, light weight and customized tamper-evident features.

DuPont™ Tyvek® envelopes are used around the world by shipping companies and postal authorities, including the U.S. Postal Service and French La Post, among others. The lighter weight of Tyvek®, as compared to paper products, helps lower operating costs by keeping mail volumes below weight thresholds and by assuring that mail arrives securely, wherever the destination.

"Every day DuPont™ Tyvek® envelopes help millions of consumers and businesses, organizations and institutions by delivering high quality and reliable performance," said Barry M. Granger, vice president and general manager -- DuPont Nonwovens. "DuPont has used its innovative science to create solutions for India Post with the lightweight strength and durability Tyvek® envelopes can deliver."

"With the introduction of the new DuPont™ Tyvek® speed post envelopes, customers will find it convenient to send documents and letters through Speed Post. We expect this to enhance growth for our Speed Post business, which currently deals with 1.7 crore (10.7 million) consignments per month and grew by about 30 percent last year," said John Samuel, general manager - business development, India Post.

The customized DuPont™ Tyvek® envelopes will improve the protection and reliability offered by Speed Post and Insured Post services of India Post to its users. The envelopes initially will be sold at the post offices and then as customized Tyvek® envelopes for corporate customers. They will be available at 290 Speed Post Centres in India's national network and across more than 1,000 Speed Post Centres in the state network. The Speed Post service, launched more than 20 years ago by India Post, is a leader in its segment with business customers -- a key market.

Tyvek® properties make it ideal for use across diverse markets and industries, including protective garments, envelopes, tags and labels, indoor and outdoor signs and banners, sterile medical and industrial packaging as well as bags, maps and car covers. Additional Tyvek® applications include construction products such as Tyvek® HomeWrap®, which increases comfort and reduces energy costs by sealing a home's envelope; ThermaWrap™, which improves the reflection of radiant energy in wall systems; and Tyvek® AtticWrap™, which is the first breathable roofing membrane to create an airtight envelope.

DuPont is a science company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and protection, home and construction, transportation and apparel.

The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPont™, The miracles of science™ and Tyvek® are registered trademarks or trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:09 AM | Comments (0)

Gazebo Accents Introduces New Gazebo Rail Designs

Gazebo Accents hits a home-run with a new collection of gazebo rail designs. These unique styles are sure to impress and inspire the pre-made wood gazebo industry.

Moreno Valley, CA (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- In their quest to distance themselves from the rest of the pack, and with the ability to design and manufacture one of a kind pre-made gazebos.Gazebo Accents, the west coast leading retailer of wood, and vinyl gazebos, has once again expanded their already popular wood gazebo line with wonderful new rail designs. You can choose from an oriental style to a modern contemporary and anywhere in between. All gazebos are built in kit form for easy installation.

"To come up with something unique and different is a welcomed challenge," said Jim Pena, owner and lead designer of Gazebo Accents, who has 25 years in the pre-made wood gazebo business. "Homeowners are not limited to one or two options, but have many choices in creating their own unique gazebo, without costing them an arm and leg."

History of Gazebos:
Gazebos belong to a variety of garden structures with similar functions that include pavilions, kiosks, belvederes, follies, alambras, pergolas and more. As the etymologies of those names suggest, such structures are quite popular in warm and sunny climates.

Through most of American history, gazebos continued as a garden feature reserved for the well to-do. George Washington had a small-eight sided garden structure at Mount Vernon. Thomas Jefferson wrote about gazebos -- then usually called summerhouses or pavilions. He planned to build at least three in different styles at his home, Monticello, but only got around to building one.

Types of Gazebos:
Trying to decide what gazebo is best for you can be an overwhelming task. There is aluminum, rod iron, redwood, cedar, pine, vinyl, bamboo, and various hardwoods available. If cost is your main concern, then the metal with canvas roof kind are normally the cheapest, but may not hold up to well in a strong wind. Wood and vinyl will take the elements the best, but can be quite expensive. Rather than hiring a contractor to build from scratch, a pre-made gazebo kit is a great investment, and will cost much less in comparison to a contractor built structure.

To find out more information about our gazebo designs and options, visit us at GazeboAccents.com where you will find our current prices and job photos. You can also read customer testimonials, and request a current price guide. You may call us at (951) 255-0795 an expert will help you with any questions you may have.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:09 AM | Comments (0)

Metal Finishing Leader MetoKote Opens Eighth Facility in Mexico

MetoKote Corporation, the industry leader in metal finishing processes, is pleased to announce the opening of its newest facility in San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico.

Lima, OH (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- MetoKote Corporation, the industry leader in metal finishing processes, including electrocoat (e-coat), powder coat and liquid paint, is pleased to announce the opening of its newest facility in San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico. This is the eighth facility in Mexico for MetoKote which has a total of 38 facilities across North America, South America and Europe.

MetoKote strategically located this facility in the San Luis Potosí area because of the rapid growth in this region and the strong demand for coatings. This central region of Mexico, referred to as Bajio and Altiplano areas, is within a two hour radius of industrial cities such as Queretaro, Aguascalientes Irapuato, Leon and Silao.

This plant currently operates one high production electrocoat monorail line with a part envelope of 36" x 48" x 72". The line is designed to coat small to medium sized parts with a turnaround time of 24 hours or less. This facility also offers light assembly, special packaging for automotive spare parts, labeling, and inventory tracking of customer parts. When at full capacity, the company will employ approximately 50 employees. The plant has adequate room for growth with future plans to add powder coat and liquid paint lines.

MetoKote Corporation, headquartered in Lima, Ohio, services over 1,500 customers throughout the United States and the world. MetoKote provides environmentally sound and cost-effective coating solutions to a wide variety of industries such as agriculture, appliance, automotive, computer, construction equipment, electrical, furniture, industrial equipment, recreational, and truck and bus.

Meeting the demands of such a diverse group of industries requires an equally diverse range of custom coating services and technologies. MetoKote offers a full range of high technology custom coating services, including electrocoating (e-coat), powder coating, liquid paint and other custom coatings. MetoKote is constantly researching and developing new protective coating applications to meet your needs.

The MetoKote "Continuous Customer Focus" is their commitment to customers. It is the ability to direct a custom coating project from the initial opportunity stage throughout the entire project cycle. Their start-to-finish capability allows complete project management of protective coating applications including: evaluation, design conception, solution recommendation, implementation, quality production and process management. Their dedication to continuous improvement in protective coating applications results in additional customer benefits and opportunities, providing expertise and leadership to meet your needs.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:09 AM | Comments (0)

The Adverse Effects of Housing: Asheville Architectural Firm Works Towards a Solution

Several recent studies have shown that the houses we live in negatively affect our health and the environment. Carlton Architecture, of Asheville North Carolina, is one firm that is working towards a solution to those problems with sustainable housing.

Asheville, NC (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- Recent studies are showing that the houses we live in negatively affect our health, our environment, and our children's future. It is architects who adopt green building practices, who are beginning to lead us towards a greener, healthier future.

One such architectural firm is Carlton Architecture, who states on their website, "As architects, we are in a unique position to shape how the buildings we design will perform."

When you begin to look at the data that surrounds housing and our health, it becomes quite apparent how important firms like Carlton will be to our future.

According to the US Energy Information Administration, buildings are responsible for more that 50% of greenhouse gas emissions, and consume more than 75% of the power that is generated in the US.

When built using more traditional designs (and materials) a home is also more likely to cause health problems. In highly populated areas asthma, for example, is a growing problem. Between 1980 and 1994, cases of the respiratory illness increased by 75%.

In the past this increase was linked to automobiles and overall air quality. Although those are both contributing factors, the APHA is also beginning to see a direct correlation between building density and problems such as asthma and allergies. More buildings mean more pollution, and as the problem grows so do the cases of asthma.

There is also a link between the materials used to build a home and other health problems. Respiratory illnesses, allergies, and a few other issues have been linked to the homes that we live in.

The adverse effects of our homes do not stop there. There are economic effects brought on by housing as well. A recent study in Buffalo, New York showed that housing actually contributed to poverty. Poorer residents, who were unable to keep up with the large utility bills of their traditional houses, often went without heat and power. That same study led to an initiative to turn low cost housing into green buildings, thus reducing poverty in the area.

Another study, published in the International Advances in Economic Research Journal, showed that the price of a house was also affected by the quality of the air in the community. As building density increases in an area, so does pollution and particulate emissions. This leads to a drop in the actual property values in an area.

When you look at firms like Carlton Architecture, the solution to these problems becomes quite clear. With innovative approaches that use natural building materials, and include green measures like passive sustainability and energy conservation, Carlton is becoming a leader in the green housing initiative.

With all of the recent data, it becomes quite apparent that it is firms like Carlton that will lead us into the future. Designing houses that blend with the environment instead of ruining it, and homes that are healthier for those who live in them is an important first step towards a sustainable future.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:06 AM | Comments (0)

Digital Signature Software Facilitates Engineering, Production, and Logistics at Mailhot Industries

Mailhot Industries advances workflow processes by implementing Cosign® digital signature software from ARX (Algorithmic Research).

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- CoSign digital signature software is implemented at Mailhot Industries (Quebec, Canada). With assistance from the leading digital signature company, ARX (Algorithmic Research), the international manufacturer of hydraulic cylinders has expedited processes and secured their workflow.

Engineering design approvals, QA forms, expense reports, and additional business processes require signatures as a part of Mailhot's internal procedures. Prior to Mailhot's implementation of CoSign, the documents were each printed, manually routed for signature purposes, and archived. With the generation of thousands of documents each month, the workflow had become extremely cumbersome, demanding a significant amount of attention simply for support. To remedy the situation, Mailhot decided to utilize CoSign, which offers a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)-based solution that allowed for the creation of a secure paperless workflow and the integration of their engineering seals.

"CoSign provided us with a standard-based digital signature solution for streamlining our workflow, which also guaranteed that external entities will have no problem reading and validating our files," explained Rejean Belanger, IT Manager at Mailhot Industries. Rejean added, "CoSign's strong security provisions and its tight integration with Mailhot's network were major factors in our decision".

Mailhot's implementation of the CoSign digital signature software has allowed them to turn multiple day processes into procedures that can be completed in just a few hours. CoSign is also saving the company hundreds of dollars each month in paper-related costs. Expense reports and design approvals are now routed electronically and signed digitally, allowing documentation to be reviewed and authorized as quickly as it is prepared.

"Mailhot Industries' use of CoSign highlights the ease with which the CoSign digital signature software can assist an organization that produces thousands of paper documents a month, improve its operational efficiencies, and substantially cut its paper-related costs," said Ari Seror, Director of Professional Services, ARX.

About Mailhot Industries
Mailhot Industries manufactures telescopic and industrial cylinders that have won an international reputation. A 100,000 sq. ft. plant, as well as four strategically located manufacturing and distribution facilities, allows Mailhot to build and maintain close working relationships with each of its customers. Mailhot Industries' mission is to explore new technologies and adapt them to their customers' needs. For more information, please visit http://www.mailhotindustries.com/.

About CoSign Digital Signatures
CoSign® is ARX's digital signature solution that allows users to digitally sign multiple document types, records, files, forms, and electronic transactions from their desktop or via a zero-footprint technology using any Web browser. By using standard digital signature technology, CoSign produces a portable signature record for every signature it captures. The portable signature format - CoSign®PSF™ enables partners, customers, and prospects to retain and verify the proof of identity, intent, and transaction integrity over the life of the record without any proprietary software. CoSign signatures are being used by hundreds of thousands of users in Enterprise, B2B and B2C processes, to learn why please see our white papers and product details at www.arx.com/products/cosign_moreinfo.php.

About The Digital Signature Company - ARX (Algorithmic Research)
ARX is a global provider of digital signature solutions for the life sciences, healthcare, government, engineering, and manufacturing organizations. ARX has over 20 years of experience assisting life sciences, healthcare, governmental, engineering, and manufacturing businesses cost effectively to secure, streamline, and scale their business processes and transactions. The company specializes in enabling organizations of any size to scale digital signature and security solutions at the lowest TCO while retaining proper control mechanisms that are required by legislation, regulation and industry best practice. For more information, please visit www.arx.com.

CoSign is a registered trademark and CoSign PSF is a trademark of Algorithmic Research, Ltd. All other trade names and trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:06 AM | Comments (0)

HBH Gas Systems Contributes to Natural Gas Pipeline and Central Gas System Discussions in Pahrump, Nevada

A Las Vegas-based environmental engineering firm is currently consulting Nye County and Pahrump to determine the feasibility of bringing a natural gas pipeline into the valley. Harris Baker, the president of HBH Gas Systems and a recognized expert on the many positive implications of gas fuel, participated in panel discussions with engineers, consultants and interested stakeholders about the benefits of bringing gas to the area. HBH Gas Systems could be called upon to implement a Central Gas System to deliver propane gas to the homes and businesses of Pahrump so that new homes and businesses could be built with eco-friendly, cost-effective gas fuel. The propane system could exist until natural gas expanded to the point that the system’s infrastructure, and the homes and businesses connected to it, could be converted to use natural gas.

Austin, TX (Vocus/PRWEB ) August 14, 2008 -- At the beginning of August, developers, contractors and real estate professionals of Pahrump, Nevada gathered to discuss the benefits of bringing gas fuel to their city. A Las Vegas-based environmental engineering firm is currently consulting Nye County and Pahrump to determine the feasibility of bringing a natural gas pipeline into the valley. The primary function of the pipeline could be to serve a gas-fired electric generating plant, but it would benefit many other residents and businesses in the area. Harris Baker, the president of HBH Gas Systems and a recognized expert on the many positive implications of gas fuel, participated in panel discussions with engineers, consultants and interested stakeholders about the benefits of bringing gas to the area.

Mr. Baker has extensive experience in bringing Central Gas Systems, also called community gas systems or Central Propane Systems, to communities around the world that would otherwise be built all-electric. HBH Gas Systems is a leader in the design and implementation of these systems, which are becoming widely known as the industry standard for bringing underground piped, individually metered gas fuel to entire off-grid developments, residential communities and resorts. Central Gas Systems from HBH Gas Systems deliver propane - a clean-burning, approved alternative 'green' energy – through underground pipes from a central facility, eliminating unsightly individual tanks. The gas is delivered, serviced, consumed, and billed in a manner identical to natural gas.

HBH Gas Systems could be called upon to implement a Central Gas System to deliver propane gas to the homes and businesses of Pahrump so that new homes and businesses could be built with eco-friendly, cost-effective gas fuel. The propane system could exist until natural gas expanded to the point that the system’s infrastructure, and the homes and businesses connected to it, could be converted to use natural gas.

The developments that implement Central Gas Systems from HBH Gas Systems are often located in close proximity to other communities that have been built all-electric. "There are huge marketing advantages in being able to offer underground metered gas and dual-fuels where other communities can't," Baker said at the Pahrump meeting. Builders and Developers in communities that implement Central Gas Systems from HBH Gas Systems reap the benefits of these marketing advantages by offering dual-fuels.

Central Gas Systems from HBH Gas Systems lower the carbon emissions of off-grid developments by effectively reducing the amount of fossil fuel-generated electricity they use. A single home using propane from a Central Gas System in lieu of coal-fired electricity for space and water heating can potentially offset up to 8.5 tons of carbon emissions per year – more than the annual emissions of an average vehicle. Moreover, these systems provide enormous social benefits for homeowners and business owners alike, allowing for the implementation of high-efficiency gas-powered appliances and upgrades like outdoor kitchens, tankless water heaters, and gas lanterns.

While the feasibility of bringing a natural gas pipeline to Pahrump is uncertain, HBH Gas Systems is confident that the builders, developers, and residents of the Pahrump area would benefit enormously from the introduction of dual-fuels into new homes, businesses and community facilities.

HBH Gas Systems has developed, designed, and installed Central Gas Systems in residential communities, commercial developments and entire resorts throughout the US. HBH Gas Systems is committed to facilitating sustainable development worldwide by bringing gas to regions where it was previously unavailable. HBH Gas Systems is the largest independent provider of Central Gas Systems in the world. For more information about HBH Gas Systems, visit hbhsystems.com or contact Harris Baker at (512) 306-0073.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:06 AM | Comments (0)

LifeStyle Builders & Developers Unveils New Model Home Fresh & Exciting Design Stands Out from the Competition in Harpers Mill

LifeStyle Builders & Developers, Inc., a Richmond-based homebuilder, proudly announces the grand opening of their new Chaucer model home in Harpers Mill, a sought-after new home community in Chesterfield County from the mid $300's. The Chaucer blends old world features reminescent of the American Arts and Crafts era with the modern conveniences considered desirable in a new home today.

Richmond, VA (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- LifeStyle Builders and Developers, Inc., a Richmond based homebuilder, proudly announces the grand opening of their new Chaucer model home in Harpers Mill, a sought-after new home community in Chesterfield County from the mid $300's.

The Chaucer's open and inviting floor plan is comfortable for intimate evenings with the family as well as entertaining friends and neighbors. Outside, a subtle mix of textures and materials coordinate to create the pleasing Craftsman architecture sought-after by today's homebuyers. And unlike many builders today, LifeStyle Builders has carried the Craftsman details inside as well, with such features as stained oak wainscoting in the foyer, a custom stair post design, a unique and elegant beamed ceiling in the dining room, and stained glass windows above built-in bookshelves in the family room. Mixed with the old world features reminiscent of the American Arts and Crafts era are the modern conveniences considered desirable in a new home, including a built-in "drop zone" as you enter the home from the garage, a gourmet kitchen, and luxurious owner's suite with zen-like spa bathroom.

"We are very proud of our new model home," said Lloyd Poe, owner of LifeStyle Builders and Developers. "We know that Craftsman architecture, with its clean lines and attention to detail, is very popular with homebuyers. Our design team took it one step further by bringing those sought-after Craftsman details inside the home as well. In our model you will find dozens of beautiful craftsman-style features admired in older historic homes blended effortlessly with the modern conveniences of today."

The Chaucer model home offers more than 3,300 square feet with 5 bedrooms and 3½ baths. The first floor's living space includes a formal living and dining room with butler's pantry for entertaining, a gourmet kitchen that is open to the family room with stacked stone fireplace and cedar mantle, and a vaulted sunroom with 3 walls of glass. An inviting screened-in porch and separate patio designed of stamped concrete extend the family's living space outdoors. A finished third floor, decorated as a teenager's retreat, features a rec room, loft office space, and a 5th bedroom with full bath.

LifeStyle Builders and Developers, Inc. is currently offering seven exciting floor plans in Harpers Mill, with prices starting at $367,990. These homes range from 2575 to over 3550 square feet, feature 3 to 5 bedrooms, expandable living areas, basements, and some first floor owner suite plans. Once a buyer has selected their preferred floor plan and homesite, the next step is a trip to LifeStyle's 2600 square foot Design Studio, where a professional Design Consultant will guide the homebuyer through the personalization process as they choose from hundreds of interior and exterior selections to create the home of their dreams. State-of-the-art displays and vignettes feature the latest design trends in cabinetry, flooring, lighting, faucets and finishes.

Harpers Mill is a new community in Chesterfield County, and is planned with a host of resort-style amenities such as an amphitheater, clubhouse, pools, tennis courts, soccer fields, and even on-site retail space. The new Winterpock elementary school, which opened in March 2008, is located within Harpers Mill. Children will attend other excellent Chesterfield County schools including Bailey Bridge Middle and Cosby High.

Model hours are Wednesday through Saturday 11:00am to 6:00pm, and Sunday 1:00pm to 6:00pm. Directions are: From Route 288, exit onto Route 360/Hull Street Road West towards Amelia, travel approximately 5 miles, turn left onto Otterdale Road, travel approximately ½ mile into Harpers Mill, turn right on Longlands Road. The LifeStyle Builders' model is the second house on the left. For more information or to set up an appointment, please call Sales Consultant, Nancy Lassiter at (804) 639-6276 or (804) 814-0435.

A Richmond-based and locally-owned company since 1990, LifeStyle Builders and Developers offers an extensive portfolio of award-winning homes with distinctive elevations and innovative designs. LifeStyle Builders is currently building in 10 neighborhoods throughout the Richmond area. For more information about LifeStyle Builders, please visit www.lifestylebuilders.com or call (804) 639-9440.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:05 AM | Comments (0)

Econoburn Gasification Boilers Manufacturer Building Dealer Network

Seventeen new dealers have recently joined the expanding network of sales and installation representatives for the Econoburn™ line of wood gasification boilers.

Dunkirk, NY (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- Seventeen new dealers have recently joined the expanding network of sales and installation representatives for the Econoburn™ line of wood gasification boilers.

"Our dealership and distribution network continues to rapidly expand," said Alternative Fuel Boilers LLC president William Raines. "That's a testament to the quality of the product we produce and the level of customer service we provide. The Econoburn is quickly becoming one of the most well recognized and highly demanded, made in America wood gasification boilers."

Econoburn units range in size from 100,000 to 1 million BTUs for use as either a primary heat source or to supplement one that already exists. The boilers are adaptable to both hot water and forced air heating systems, and the company offers accessory products for swimming pools and hot tubs along with heat exchanger fans for industrial buildings.

Because of the gasification technology, Econoburn boilers perform with emissions below EPA standards.

New dealers the company announced cover territories in 7 states. They include:

-- Connecticut - The Griffith Company, Bridgeport (203-333-5557)
-- Maine - E.C. Knight Homes, Presque Isle (207-764-4824)
-- Massachusetts - Plumbers Specialties, Inc., Webster (508-943-6000)
-- New Hampshire - George Stevens Company, Laconia (603-528-4783); and Lamphere Construction, Chester (603-887-4688)
-- New York - AquaSource Group / HeatSmart, Honeoye (585-229-2500); Consolidated Plumbing Supply, Mount Vernon (914-668-3124); Excelsior Alternative Fuels, Amenia (845-373-4234); Hulbert Brothers, Plattsburgh (518-561-5400); and Meadowbrook Builders, Briarcliff Manor (914-941-2621)
-- Pennsylvania - Mahoning Outdoor Furnaces, Mt. Pleasant Mills (717-363-3271); Parsons Inc., Hookstown (724-899-2933); Hillside Energy Solutions, Cochranton (814-720-2720); and Gary & Sons Inc., Falls Creek (814-371-4885)
-- Vermont - Jim Crawford, Whiting (802-683-0921); Watson Research, Fairfax (802-849-6164); and Willey's Plumbing & Heating, Lowell (802-744-5483)

Information about Econoburn boilers is available by calling the dealers directly or on the manufacturer's website, www.alternativefuelboilers.com.

The company offers pre-purchase consultations for customers on appropriate boiler sizing, systems integration, accessory applications and any other specialized design criteria. Alternative Fuels' toll-free telephone number, 866-818-5162, is available to customers seeking detailed product information.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:05 AM | Comments (0)

It's Not to Late to Enjoy the Remaining Summer Days in the Comfort of an Outdoor Gazebo from Leisure Woods

As summer speeds by, it is important to enjoy the remaining lazy, hazy days this season brings. Although the weeks left of summer are dwindling, there is still plenty of time to enjoy them from the comfort of a new outdoor gazebo from Leisure Woods.

Genoa, IL (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- With summer on the downswing, it is important to relish every warm, sunny day. For many homeowners, the backyard is an outdoor haven where they like to spend many hours relaxing, entertaining and spending time with family and friends. A great way to enjoy the remaining days of summer is with a new outdoor gazebo constructed with ease from a gazebo kit from Leisure Woods.

"Gazebo kits are a fast and easy way to get a practical, yet beautiful addition to your outdoor living space," comments Charles Scordato from Leisure Woods. "Our gazebo kits are designed to make setting up and building your outdoor gazebo easy and efficient. They are easy to assemble and extremely cost effective when compared to a custom design."

Renovating the outdoor living space has become a huge trend in the last few years. Outdoor gazebos are a welcome addition because they add beauty and provide respite from the elements and bugs.

"Gazebo kits are very popular because they make it easy by providing all the required materials for building the gazebo," Scordato continues. "We use top quality materials and they come equipped with pre-cut and some pre-assembled pieces."

"We ordered a gazebo kit from Leisure-Woods late last summer and within a few hours and a little hard work, we were having a drink from our new gazebo," comments Marni Smyth from Des Moines, Iowa. "We went with a three season gazebo with the window/screen package so that we were also able to enjoy it throughout the fall."

Any homeowner interested in enjoying the remaining days of summer from the comfort of an outdoor gazebo is encouraged to contact Leisure Woods to view their large assortment of cedar gazebo kits.

About Leisure Woods

Leisure Woods, Inc., a family owned business, is a premier manufacturer of cedar gazebo kits. Leisure Woods Inc. has a variety of pre-engineered gazebos designed to compliment both the residential and commercial environments. They currently manufacture two gazebo series, the Lake Wood Gazebo and the Cedar Cove Gazebo and also offer select styles from each of these series in vinyl and treated.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:05 AM | Comments (0)

Mahoney Sabol Founding Partner Earns Certified in Financial Forensics Credential

Michael Sabol earns CFF credential, positioning him as a premier forensic accounting services provider.

Glastonbury, CT (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- Mahoney Sabol & Company, LLP is proud to announce that Founding Partner Michael Sabol has been awarded the prestigious Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF) credential by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

The CFF is a newly created specialty credential in forensic accounting that recognizes forensic accounting expertise combined with the core knowledge and skills that make CPAs among the most trusted business advisers. Essentially, it positions the credential holder as a premier forensic accounting services provider.

"The creation of this new credential reflects the increasing importance of forensic accounting skills in today's world," said Michael Sabol, Founding Partner. "Corporate directors, investors and regulators are all demanding greater vigilance in the compilation of financial statements and forensic experts play an important role in that process."

The CFF encompasses fundamental and specialized forensic accounting skills that CPAs apply in a variety of service areas, including: bankruptcy and insolvency; computer forensics; economic damages; family law; fraud investigations; litigation support; stakeholder disputes and valuations.

Forensic accounting consists of two major components: litigation services and investigative services that make use of the CPA's skills that may or may not lead to courtroom testimony.

About Mahoney Sabol & Company, LLP:
Mahoney Sabol & Company, LLP is a regional professional services firm founded in 1990 offering a full complement of business advisory services, including comprehensive accounting, audit, tax, business valuation, and consulting services, as well as overall financial management services. With offices in Glastonbury, Essex, Middletown, and Somers, Mahoney Sabol is central Connecticut's premier professional services organization serving public and privately owned businesses, not-for-profit organizations and individuals.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:02 AM | Comments (0)

Latest Headlines Prove Abundant Infrastructure Investment Opportunities in Vietnam

The latest headlines on Vietnam's road and rail infrastructure points in one direction: Growth in Vietnam's Transport sector is inevitable and Viet Traffic 2008, Vietnam's premier international traffic and land transport conference & exhibition to be held from the 15th to the 17th of October, will prove invaluable for organisations to secure a piece of that growth pie.

Hanoi, Vietnam (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- The latest headlines on Vietnam's road and rail infrastructure points in one direction: Growth in Vietnam's Transport sector is inevitable and Viet Traffic 2008, Vietnam's premier international traffic and land transport conference & exhibition to be held from the 15th to the 17th of October, will prove invaluable for organisations to secure a piece of that growth pie.

Latest news from Chicago business (28 July 2008) state that, "The attraction of Vietnam is obvious. Aside from abundant cheap labor, there is the rapidly improving infrastructure --- roads, rails and harbors --- necessary for moving product in, out and around the country. There also are the two decades of "Doi Moi" (New Changes) reforms, which have given Vietnam one of the world's most open economies." The Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) is actively coordinating with relevant agencies in building a mechanism for public-private partnership (PPP), an effective model to develop infrastructure (Source: VietNamNet Bridge, 5 July 2008). Vietnam's State Treasury plans to raise 1 trillion dong ($60.63 million) at a government bond auction. The proceeds will go to funding major infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges and ports (Source: Thomson Reuters, 2 August 2008). France will set aside €22.8 million (US$35.63 million) to help Vietnam develop rural infrastructure in northern Lao Cai Province (Source: Thanh Nien News, 3 August 2008). President Nguyen Minh Triet had asked for Japan's cooperation in building a high-speed rail link to connect the northern and southern parts of the country as well as highways (Source: Kyodo News Service, Tokyo, 25 Jul 2008).

Viet Traffic 2008 is the direct result of this major demand for transport infrastructure and is set to be a timely platform for land transport industry professionals. Delegates to the Viet Traffic conference can expect to learn more about local and international case studies in urban transport planning and sustainability, technology advancements, transport financing and investments, intelligent transport systems, road safety, as well as gain critical insights into Vietnam's road and rail development plans, its opportunities, and challenges.

The Viet Traffic conference is supplemented by an exhibition which features solutions and technologies for railway infrastructure, highway construction and management, roadside accessories and public utilities, ITS for traffic management and safety, parking facilities and systems & management. In addition, visitors to Viet Traffic can meet face-to-face, international companies offering a multitude of relevant land transport products and services available for the Vietnam market.

Other activities held at Viet Traffic 2008 include an exclusive Roundtable Exchange and a networking evening for specially invited buyers to meet exhibiting companies and government personnel, and a technical site visit to two highway and bridge projects, one is currently underway in Vietnam's Ninh Binh province, about 91km (1.5 hrs) south-east of Hanoi and the other links districts in Hanoi's south and west with highways 1, 5, 6 and 18 and the Noi Bai junction.

To date Viet Traffic 2008 has received support from Vietnam's Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Planning and Investment, Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vietnam Railway Administration, Vietnam's Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises (VAFIE) and the Vietnam Association of Construction Contractors (VACC). The International Road Federation (IRF), Vietnam Bridge and Road Association (VIBRA) and the Institution of Railway Signal Engineers (IRSE) have also lent their endorsement to the event. The event organiser, IIR Exhibitions expects more industry support towards the buildup of the event with market leaders signing up as delegates, visitors and exhibitors.

For more information and updates, visit http:// www.viettraffic.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:02 AM | Comments (0)

Greenblock ICF Walls Make Rafiki Foundation Headquarters Safe, Sound and Sustainable

Eustis Florida campus mirrors Rafiki African villages.

Stuart, FL (PRWEB) August 14, 2008 -- Earlier this year, Greenblock Worldwide Corp. announced that it had been awarded the insulated concrete form (ICF) product and installation contract for the new home offices of The Rafiki Foundation, Inc. (rafiki-foundation.org). The 57-acre Rafiki campus features 13 buildings constructed with more than 25,000 square feet of Greenblock ICFs.

The Rafiki Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit Christian ministry founded in 1957, operates orphanages in ten English-speaking countries in Africa. Rafiki provides housing, meals, clothing, education, Christian nurture, and medical care for its children from the time they arrive at the Rafiki Villages until they reach young adulthood.

Sustainable, energy-efficient and storm resistant buildings were mandated by the design architects for this project, which led them to the selection of Greenblock ICFs for the exterior wall systems.

"Rafiki Foundation has constructed buildings of superior quality and energy efficiency in all its projects in Africa, so when it was time to build our new home office in the United States we wanted the same thing," says Steve Kranz, Rafiki's director of home operations. "It was a perfect fit for us to choose ICF construction, knowing that it would provide safe, beautiful and very energy efficient buildings."

John Riddle, Central Florida territory manager for Greenblock, says, "The energy-efficient ICF walls used in these structures will reduce the energy use within this community throughout their useful life. This means long-lasting benefits for the Rafiki Foundation and it meets their requirement for a sustainable campus. An added benefit is that the ICF walls provide the ultimate protection from the severe weather so prevalent in this region of the country."

Mark Construction Co. of Longwood, Florida (www.markconstruction.com), has provided construction management for the project, which began in late February and will conclude in early September. The Rafiki Foundation has already begun relocation of staff members form their current home office in San Antonio in anticipation of this construction project. Upon completion of the home office complex, approximately 15 full-time employees will be working from the Rafiki campus where hundreds of volunteers will receive training and preparation instruction before leaving for Africa to provide services directly to orphaned children at one of their ten Rafiki Villages located in ten African countries.

The Greenblock walls at the Rafiki Foundation Home Office complex were finished nearly three weeks ahead of schedule. The fully assembled solid concrete, steel-reinforced ICF walls allowed Mark Construction Co. to move forward on the dry-in stage of the project well ahead of schedule.

About Greenblock, Inc.:
Greenblock Worldwide Corp (www.greenblock.com) is a manufacturer of Insulated Concrete Form wall systems for the residential and commercial building industries. With it's roots in Europe over 45 years ago, today's Greenblock is an ICF Industry leader recognized for it's outstanding design and ease of use. Over the years, a significant number of structures have been built with Greenblock. Projects that range from stem walls, basements, single and multi-story residences, apartments, condominiums, towers and even swimming pools. Government agencies, schools, commercial and light industrial companies are now recognizing the superior features of insulated concrete form-built structures and are beginning to utilize them for environmental, disaster resistance and energy conservation benefits.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:02 AM | Comments (0)

FindAnyFloor.com Set to Become "The Web's Flooring Authority"

Revolutionary Website Launched Yesterday

Las Vegas (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- Filling a glaring void in the realm of flooring information, Las Vegas-based FindAnyFloor.com launched yesterday. The brainchild of successful flooring and tech entrepreneur Damien Patton, the site brings together flooring customers and flooring professionals and aims to give consumers the most comprehensive information source available for purchasing or maintaining virtually any kind of floor surface.

"I was on WebMD.com and I thought to myself: Where's the WebMD of flooring? Where's the all-knowing information service?" said Patton, explaining how FindAnyFloor.com came to be. "I started looking at other industries and they had similar information websites. I checked the flooring industry and every site I found was either biased due to commercial interests or other factors. And all of them combined didn't equal what FindAnyFloor.com has become today."

Carefully indexed for easy navigation, FindAnyFloor.com guides the visitor through the various aspects of bamboo, carpet, cork, hardwood, stone, vinyl and other floors. They will learn the advantages and disadvantages of each, suitability to their particular climate, allergy friendliness and other very practical considerations, all presented in simple language and lay terms.

FindAnyFloor.com also boasts handy buying and installation guides, a glossary of flooring terms, and a listing of frequently asked questions (FAQs). A cornerstone of the site is the "Find It Locally" tool: By entering their zip code, site visitors can find over 60,000 flooring retailers, installers and cleaners -- all conveniently listed and flagged on a Google map. This makes FindAnyFloor.com a great place for flooring pros to get listed -- which they can do for free.

Rolling out on August 18 will be the partner site Pro.FindAnyFloor.com, aimed at industry professionals, while September will see the unveiling Green.FindAnyFloor.com, showing Patton's commitment to environmental responsibility. In addition, all three sites will be Section 508 compliant by the end of the year -- meaning that they will be fully accessible to people with disabilities.

Said Patton: "It's vitally important to me that I not only develop the premier flooring information site, but that I make a contribution to moving the Internet towards accessibility for the approximately 60 million people with some form of disability in this country alone."

About FindAnyFloor.com: FindAnyFloor.com is striving to be the world's largest floor covering information site and social community. The site is a free resource for consumers as well as flooring professionals on all subjects related to flooring. The site also provides interactive tools for the flooring do-it-yourselfer and professional alike. FindAnyFloor.com is proud to be working towards becoming Section 508 compliant and a fully accessible site for all visitors.

About Damien Patton: Damien successfully created Pacific Imports International, a large floor-covering distributor that he sold in 2007. The company maintained offices in Asia and the United States and became a premier distributor and retailer of bamboo and hardwood flooring. Damien is the Founder and CEO of FindAnyFloor.com, the end result of his vision to have the largest and most accessible floor covering resource and social community on the Web.

Contact:
Damien Patton
Founder and CEO FindAnyFloor.com
Ph: 702-242-9663
http://www.findanyfloor.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:02 AM | Comments (0)

Wikk Industries, Inc. Offers Key to Keeping Aesthetic Integrity and ADA Compliance In Sync - with AccessAbility™ Automatic Door Activation Solutions

Architects, specifiers, and security and access control specialists look to Wisconsin-based manufacturer that set the industry standard for meeting access requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act - whether the need is custom or standard.

Greendale, WI (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- Wikk Industries, Inc., a Greendale, Wisconsin-based designer and manufacturer of the AccessAbility™ automatic door activation solutions line continues to partner with architects, specifiers, and security and access control specialists faced with the challenge of balancing architectural aesthetics and the access requirements established through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1991. The company manufactures switches, bollard posts, and accessories and sells through its worldwide network of automatic door and door hardware distributors.

A great example of Wikk helping building owners and occupants bring the beauty of architectural integrity and the functionality of ADA compliance together is exemplified through the company's exclusive INGRESS'R®. This revolutionary switch is a 36-inch vertical touch activation column that provides accessibility with great ease for everyone.

"By simply bumping the INGRESS'R with the footrest of my wheelchair, I am able to activate the door operator," explains Harold Kiewel, AIA, CSI, CCS, architect and specifications writer for HMC Architects. "It's such a clean, simple, truly functional solution -- and the end result is a welcoming design that leaves no one out, whether the building is modern, post-modern, or a historic restoration."

With five different sizes, seven shapes, 12 legends, and custom engraving -- in addition to electrical, key, pneumatic, and wireless switching, Wikk offers one of the most comprehensive lines of switches in the industry. Wikk is renowned for its custom work and highly responsive turn-around time.

"I can't think of a company that does a better job complying with federal code on custom and off-the-shelf products," adds Eric Magdal, owner of Straughan Hardware, a commercial hardware distributor contracted to supply switches.

Leading the way with the most variety of standard and customized round and square bollard posts in a number of finishes, many models can be customized with slanted tops and have the option of a removable or welded cap. Wikk's square model in durable Stainless Steel is new to the bollard line (round is also available in this alloy). The Stainless Steel line is in a class all its own, and the post itself can be customized with recessed cutouts. For painted finishes, round and square bollard posts are available in mill finish-aluminum. Depending on your specific order, Wikk may be able to provide the painted finish.

Wikk Industries is also pleased to introduce its partnership with Estes Marketing LLC, a new manufacturer's representative agency, providing skilled professional service and support for Wikk and its customers in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and Alaska.

Our 28-year history has brought many exciting changes at Wikk Industries, and our commitment to our customers remains constant. Our state-of-the-art automatic door activation solutions are easy to order, install, and use -- and all are backed by our superior customer and technical service and support.

About Wikk Industries and AccessAbility:
The Wikkerink name has been known and respected in the door industry for more than 50 years. Lee Wikkerink and his father, Lance, worked together at several major automatic door manufacturing firms before starting their own company. Lee Wikkerink established Wikk Industries, Inc., in 1980 to advance a balanced door hardware product line. The company also developed a line of automatic door carpet controls and what would become the industry standard of "Knowing Act" automatic door devices, commonly called switches. By 1984, Lee's daughters were working with him in the research, refinement, and production of the switch line. When the American's with Disabilities Act (ADA) passed in 1991, Wikk already had a presence in the market with its comprehensive selection of switches, mounts, and accessories that was trademarked in 1996 as AccessAbility. Today Lee's daughter Lori Bedard leads the company and continues to expand the AccessAbility line in response to the design, installation, and security challenges presented to architects, specifiers, and security and access control specialists who must meet strict access requirements.

Members of the media can contact Lori Bedard at 877-421-9490 x12, or email at: lori @ wikk.com. Wikk Industries, Inc. can be found on the Internet at: www.wikk.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:00 AM | Comments (0)

DuPont Recognized as ‘Outstanding Corporate Innovator’ for Market Back Approach to New Product Development and Commercialization

The leading global advocate for product development and innovation, the Product Development Management Association (PDMA) recognized DuPont today with its 2008 Outstanding Corporate Innovator award for the company’s efforts to convert new products and technologies into profitable revenue growth.

Wilmington, DE August 13, 2008 -– The leading global advocate for product development and innovation, the Product Development Management Association (PDMA) recognized DuPont today with its 2008 Outstanding Corporate Innovator award for the company’s efforts to convert new products and technologies into profitable revenue growth.

In 2007, DuPont commercialized over 1,200 new products with strong representation from all five growth platforms. New products commercialized over the last five years accounted for 36 percent of DuPont’s total revenue in 2007. More than $10 billion of the company’s $29 billion revenue came from products introduced since 2003.

“This Innovation award serves as a very prestigious recognition of our new product development and commercialization strategy,” said DuPont Senior Vice President and Chief Science & Technology Officer Uma Chowdhry. "We are proud of DuPont’s strong track record in delivering differentiated offerings to customers that have resulted in real revenue growth for DuPont."

“We are pleased to recognize DuPont as an organization that demonstrates an enterprise-wide commitment to innovation and is highly successful in the continuous development of profitable new products and businesses,” said Stan Jankowski, chair of PDMA’s OCI award selection committee and President of N.O.V.A Consulting Co.

DuPont was recognized by PDMA for the use of strong market-focused tools, training, and a disciplined innovation process to drive the company’s desired transformation. Two examples given were the creation of the five “growth platforms” to focus on white space opportunities and synergies between its individual business units as well as the creation of a new, disciplined market driven innovation process which stresses strong voice of the customer opportunity validation.

Thirty-nine firms have been recognized as Outstanding Corporate Innovators since the inception of the award in 1976. Among past recipients are: Affymetrix, Apple Computer, BMW Group, FedEx Corp., Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Herman Miller, Hewlett-Packard, Hunter Douglas, Mine Safety Appliance (MSA) Inc., Nabisco, and Pepsi-Cola.

PDMA is the premier advocate and comprehensive resource for product development and innovation professionals in the United States and abroad. The association is dedicated to improving the effectiveness of individuals and organizations in product development and management.

DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:00 AM | Comments (0)

Updated Product Information: Tips for Researching and Buying Concrete Stamps

Shopping for concrete stamps just became easier with updated product information given by ConcreteNetwork.com. Learn about the available types of stamps, tips on how to buy the right stamp for specific projects, and tips on how to use them.

Yucaipa, CA (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- Concrete stamps, no doubt, are being applied on residential and commercial projects today more than ever before. Their rise in popularity can be attributed mainly to increased product availability and improvements over the years. The Concrete Network offers updated articles covering everything there is to know about choosing and purchasing the perfect concrete stamp through it's online buyer's guide and section updates.

With today's innovations in concrete products, specifically concrete stamps, homeowners and contractors alike, are enjoying the many benefits that come with using such materials. There are a growing number of options in concrete stamp patterns now available. Major product lines manufacture hundreds of styles that include a range of stone, slate, and brick patterns to custom and specialty stamps.

Another major benefit contributing to the appeal of this product is that today's stamps produce very realistic results. Most concrete stamps are made of durable polyurethane and are molded from the real materials they mimic, resulting in stunningly authentic textural effects. Many people can't tell the difference between stamped concrete and pricier paving materials such as natural stone, slate, or brick.

Stamps range from semi-rigid mats that flex slightly to conform to contours in the concrete to flex mats that can be bent to conform to slab edges or walls to ultra-pliable texturing skins with feathered edges that overlap to produce seamless texture without pattern lines. Also adding to the realism of stamped concrete is a broad range of integral and surface-applied coloring options that allow contractors to bring stamp patterns to life and precisely replicate the beauty of the materials they imitate.

When purchasing stamps for a particular project, it's important to purchase the right amount of stamps for the project and to choose a pattern that harmonizes with the setting of the home or office where the stamps will be applied. When in doubt, it's important to call several stamp manufacturers and ask them to explain what makes their tools superior to others. Also ask experienced stampers about the tools they prefer to use and why.

Read more about concrete products.

Established in 1999, The Concrete Network's purpose is to educate consumers, builders, and contractors on popular decorative concrete techniques, applications, and products. This includes concrete stains, equipment, sealers, tools, and materials. In 2007 The Concrete Network Website had over 11 million visitors researching decorative concrete.

The site excels at connecting contractors with concrete products suppliers through its Concrete Product Directory Concrete Products service. The service provides visitors with a list of decorative concrete manufacturers throughout the U.S. and Canada, as well as local decorative concrete supply stores.

Photos courtesy of Butterfield Color.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:00 AM | Comments (0)

ProEst Takeoff Wins Prestigious Home Building Technology Award

Paperless takeoff capabilities and ease-of-use put ProEst Takeoff, developed by Construction Management Software (CMS), ahead of the Back Office Automation competition.

San Diego, CA (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- Construction Management Software (CMS), a leading provider of construction estimating and takeoff technology, today announced that its ProEst Takeoff software has received the 2008 Innovative Housing Technology Award (IHTA) for Best Back Office Automation Product.

Touted as the most prestigious housing technology awards in the industry, the IHTAs are intended to stimulate the development of innovative residential construction products and systems that make the building process more efficient and cost effective. Presented by TecHome Builder magazine, the IHTA winners were announced on June 25, 2008 at the Pacific Coast Building Conference (PCBC) in San Francisco, California.

Several key features of ProEst Takeoff set it apart from the other Back Office Automation entries, including:

* Digital takeoff technology (paperless takeoffs), which eliminates the need for paper blueprints and supports the "Green" movement by saving trees
* The new MagniPoint™ function, which allows users to easily magnify and pick a point for measurement without zooming in or out of a blueprint
* Tight integration with standard office tools such as Microsoft Excel, as well as many online plan rooms
* An easy-to-use interface with a Microsoft Office look and feel

"We're excited to have ProEst Takeoff recognized by TecHome Builder as a cutting edge technology within the residential building market," said Jeffrey Gerardi, president of CMS. "Its ability to perform paperless takeoffs truly sets ProEst Takeoff apart from the competition. The savings in both time and materials from this capability are staggering."

A record number of entries were submitted for the 2008 IHTAs, which are now in their eighth year.

ABOUT CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE (CMS)

CMS is the developer of ProEst estimating software and ProEst Takeoff software, simple, powerful and innovative estimating solutions for construction. An industry leader since 1976, CMS' software is used by more than 6,500 construction firms nationwide. Headquartered in San Diego, CA, CMS is committed to streamlining and improving the estimating process by continuously enhancing its products to deliver the latest advances in technology. Digital takeoff technology, a Microsoft Office 2003 look and feel and seamless integration with popular software programs are just some examples. For more information about ProEst estimating and ProEst Takeoff software, contact Jeffrey Gerardi, President; 800-255-7407; jeffg@proest.com; www.proest.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:00 AM | Comments (0)

Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A. Celebrates 40 Years of Design Expertise and Innovation

Cuningham Group, an Award-Winning Architecture Firm, Commemorate 40th Anniversary by Partnering With Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity to Clean and Brighten a Minneapolis Community.

Minneapolis (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- Minneapolis-based Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A. Cuningham Group, known for its pioneering "green" designs, celebrates 40 years of award-winning design excellence in 2008. Cuningham Group commemorated the milestone on July 18th by bringing all 200-plus employees from around the country to Minneapolis to team with Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity on its program, "A Brush with Kindness," designed to revitalize and restore Minneapolis neighborhoods.

A Cuningham Group team working for Habitat for Humanity.

Additional anniversary programs included team-building events, a 40-year retrospective and vision for the future as well as the introduction of "Our Clients, Our Projects, Our Lives," a mission statement reaffirming Cuningham Group's commitment to helping revitalize the planet through environmentally responsible design.

Cuningham Group founder, John Cuningham, FAIA, NCARB, LEED® A.P., has dedicated his career to progressive and sustainable projects worldwide. In 1968, Cuningham established the firm's first headquarters in his house. By 1971, Cuningham Group had already distinguished itself by winning its first award. Cuningham recognized and emphasized the importance of sustainability from the outset, making him a pioneer in the movement. This focus on green design has remained a constant throughout the firm's development as it has offered architecture, interior design, urban design and planning services to the housing/mixed-use, retail/restaurant, hospitality, entertainment, education, civic, corporate and worship markets. Four decades later, Cuningham Group has earned innumerable awards and respect as one of the most significant architecture firms in the country.

"I've always felt that people were our greatest assets," said Cuningham. "They're our assets both because of their skills and passions, but also because we believe in collaborating. We work together to create environments that sustain our communities, enhance our lives, create beauty and add value."

40 Years of Award-Winning Design
Cuningham Group has won top design and planning awards since 1971. Awards have been bestowed from organizations as diverse as the fields they represent, including the Minnesota Environmental Initiative, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, American Institute of Architects Minnesota, Interfaith Forum on Religion, Art and Architecture, American Association of School Administrators, Urban Land Institute, The League of Minnesota Cities, American Zoo and Aquarium Association, Themed Entertainment Association, and Council for Educational Facility Planners International, among many others.

"We are fortunate to have great people who are talented and understand what it means to work with clients in collaboration, to listen to their needs and help them achieve their goals," said Timothy Dufault, AIA, LEED® A.P., who was named the company's president in January 2007.

Sustainability
Cuningham Group is committed to monitoring and reducing the global footprint of humans and helping to reach carbon neutrality. Cuningham Group's Minneapolis office is located in a 120-year-old building that was originally the home of a mattress factory - part of the historic building renovation wave in the late 1970s and 1980s which became a way of recycling and reusing buildings. Presently, the firm is studying how to cut energy use in the building by 40% and is designing its new Los Angeles location office to be Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) certified.

The firm's Green committee was formed almost 15 years ago when it performed its first environmental footprinting exercise in 1994, implementing plans to reduce the firm's corporate and personal impact on the planet. Cuningham Group is also an active member in the clean earth-focused 2030 Challenge which asks the global architecture and building communities to adopt specific measures that will help slow the growth rate of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and then reverse it over the next ten years.

"John Cuningham chartered this course for the organization when he founded it in 1968," said John Quiter, AIA, NCARB, LEED® A.P., Chairman of the Board. "It is rewarding to see how far we have been able to take it."

At all levels in the firm, Cuningham Group employees are involved as leaders in their communities and in the architecture profession. At the organizational level, Cuningham Group is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council and a founding member of the Los Angeles Green Building Council. Two members of Cuningham Group's Environmental Resources Team were chosen to write the first National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) monograph on sustainable design in 1997. Currently, architectural Intern, Amelia Doyle, is serving as the National Chairperson of Emerging Green Builders organization.

In 2008, Cuningham Group is set to unveil several "green" project designs, including three buildings being considered for LEED® silver certification.

"As we look to the future, we continue to strive to be knowledgeable resources to our clients," said Cuningham. "We will collaborate with them to make holistic green design decisions that not only positively impact the planet and the communities in which we build but that provide other returns on their investment."

About Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A.
Cuningham Group transcends tradition with architecture, interior design, urban design and planning services for a diverse mix of client and project types. Our client-centered, collaborative approach incorporates trend-setting architecture and environmental responsiveness to create projects that weave seamlessly into the urban fabric. Founded in 1968, the firm is consistently recognized as a leader in the field of architecture and has grown to over 200 employees in offices in Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Biloxi, Bakersfield, Madrid and Seoul. For more information, please visit . Cuningham Group.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 03:00 AM | Comments (0)

Private Real Estate Investment Firm, Cohen Asset Management, Acquires 150,494-Square-foot Flex Property in El Segundo, CA

Cohen Asset Management, a Los Angeles-based private real estate investment firm entered into a strategic joint venture with Heartland Investments to acquire 2383 Utah Avenue, a 150,000-square-foot multi-use industrial flex property located in El Segundo, CA.

El Segundo, CA (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- Cohen Asset Management, a Los Angeles-based private real estate investment firm, on behalf of CAM Core Fund 1 LLC, entered into a strategic joint venture with Heartland Investments, a subsidiary of NSB, Inc., to acquire 2383 Utah Avenue, a 150,000-square-foot multi-use industrial flex property located in El Segundo, CA.

The property acquired by the real estate investment firms is situated on 9.6 acres and is located in the El Segundo submarket of West Los Angeles. The infill location averages an industrial availability of less than 5% and has long been the location of choice for defense-related industries in Southern California. The changing economic landscape and zoning overlays has brought creative office space users to El Segundo, creating repositioning opportunities for existing industrial assets.

Cohen Asset Management, a private real estate investment firm, acquired 2383 Utah Avenue because it provides an excellent opportunity for the value-add active asset management that the CAM Core Fund 1 LLC is well known for. The property is currently 80% leased on a triple net basis to Northup Grumman and Unisys, two credit tenants. While offering strong current cash flow, the property is anticipated to be repositioned with additional development into a higher and better use; attracting new tenants for creative office space.

About Cohen
Cohen Asset Management, Inc., ("CAM"), is a private commercial and industrial real estate investment firm. The firm's relationships extend to high net worth individuals, institutional investors and domestic business entities. The private real estate investment firm is an active operator and investor of commercial and industrial real estate assets and has a well-established reputation as a value added investor focusing on commercial and industrial real estate opportunities that are inefficiently priced due to a variety of circumstances such as vacancies, rollover risk, sub-optimal management, inefficient current use, deferred maintenance, long-term undervalued leases or other unfavorable property and market conditions.

Forward looking Statement
Except for the historical facts, the statements in this press release regarding CAM's business activities are forward-looking statements based on the beliefs of, assumptions made by, and information currently available to us about known and unknown risks, trends, uncertainties and factors that are beyond our control or ability to predict. Although we believe that our assumptions are reasonable, they are not guarantees of future performance and some will inevitably prove to be incorrect. As a result, our actual future results can be expected to differ from our expectations, and those differences may be material. Accordingly, investors should use caution in relying on past forward-looking statements to anticipate future results or trends. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:58 AM | Comments (0)

U.S. CAD™ Offers 'LIVE! Online Training' to Autodesk® Software Users Worldwide

Western U.S.'s Leading Autodesk Training Provide Extends Reach, Adds Value and Convenience for Customers Via Interactive Web-based Training

Costa Mesa, Calif. (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- U.S. CAD, the Western U.S.'s largest provider of computer-aided design (CAD) services and products, and its largest Autodesk solutions reseller, is now offering interactive online training in the latest Autodesk software solutions to customers across the country and around the world. Taught by an Autodesk Certified Instructor, U.S. CAD's new "LIVE! Online Training" courses offer added value and flexibility to meet the needs of individuals, businesses, government agencies and students. The new online training complements U.S. CAD's award-winning site-based training, education and consulting services.

"Whether you're an individual Autodesk software user, a large architectural or engineering firm, or anywhere in between, 'LIVE! Online Training' provides convenient access to expert training from an Autodesk Certified Instructor in the comfort of your own home or office," said KaDe King, U.S. CAD training manager. "Web access and a browser is all you need to get the hands-on training that will help you save time, increase productivity, reduce errors, and gain a competitive advantage in your field."

All of U.S. CAD's LIVE! Online Training is based on Autodesk recommended courses and utilizes Autodesk Official or Autodesk Approved Training Courseware materials to ensure quality and continuity. U.S. CAD's Autodesk Certified Instructors have many years of classroom and online training experience to ensure a valuable interactive computer-based training experience. The classes are also designed to feel like a classroom environment, complete with time for individual questions and answers.

U.S. CAD LIVE! Online Training course topics currently include:

* AutoCAD® 2009 Update for 2006/2007 Users
* AutoCAD 2009 Update for 2008 Users
* AutoCAD 2009 Fundamentals
* AutoCAD Map 3D 2009 Essentials

In addition to receiving expert instruction, U.S. CAD LIVE! Online Training participants also benefit from:

* Recorded Modules - Courses are recorded so attendees can watch and review them up to two weeks following the session.
* Step-by-Step Course Book - Each class participant receives a course book that includes detailed, step-by-step instructions that participants can review and retain for future use.
* Follow-up Assessments via Knowledge-Trax™ - Participants are offered online assessments of their knowledge retention after each course session via U.S. CAD's proprietary Knowledge-Trax system.
* Additional Training Support - Participants can speak to one of U.S. CAD's Certified Autodesk Instructors by phone or email from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Time to ask questions related to course content.
* Through Sept. 15, 2008, all U.S. CAD LIVE! Online Training courses are 20 percent off the regular price. To take advantage of this money-saving offer, go to http://www.uscad.com/live_online_training.html.

About U.S. CAD:
Based in Costa Mesa, Calif., U.S. CAD, Inc. (formerly L.A. CAD) has grown to be the largest Autodesk reseller in California and the Western U.S., with more than 65 employees supporting customers in the full spectrum of Autodesk technologies. U.S. CAD employs nearly 30 Technical Specialists and adds an additional 25 Autodesk Consultants through its strategic partner K-TEK Solutions, based in Northern California. With this technical bench strength of over 50 individuals, U.S. CAD's expertise is sought after by an impressive array of companies who value U.S. CAD's unique mix of technology implementation, project assessment, process consulting, knowledge assessment, project mentoring, flexible training options, and technical support services. U.S. CAD has grown rapidly due, in part, to its commitment to respecting the needs of its business partners and honestly communicating how complex technologies are successfully implemented, and to delivering solutions with the highest level of integrity.

To find out what makes U.S. CAD unique and all the ways it helps its customers "Achieve More!" go to http://www.uscad.com.

U.S. CAD, L.A. CAD and Knowledge-Trax are trademarks of U.S. CAD, Inc. Autodesk, the Autodesk logo, AutoCAD, ATC, and Map 3D are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:58 AM | Comments (0)

Data Shows That Home Buying Habits Continue to Move Towards Online Sources and Away from Agents

NEW YORK (Business Wire EON/PRWEB ) August 13, 2008 -- More homebuyers are using the Internet to find the homes they ultimately purchased, according to industry data compiled by ForSaleByOwner.com (http://www.forsalebyowner.com). From 1997-2007, the real estate marketplace has seen a 15-fold increase in buyers who found the home they purchased on the Internet. During the same period, there has been a 32 percent drop in buyers who found the home they purchased because a real estate agent told them about the property.

“With millions of online real estate searches done monthly, it’s no surprise that the Internet is so effective at helping people find their ideal home, condo or vacation property,” said Greg Healy, VP of Operations. “This data, which comes from the National Association of Realtors, provides more evidence that real estate consumers are very successful in finding homes on their own.”

Where Buyers First Found the Home They Purchased, 1997-2007*

1997 1999 2001 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

Real Estate Agent 50% 49% 48% 41% 38% 36% 36% 34%
Internet 2 4 8 11 15 24 24 29
Yard Sign 17 15 15 16 16 15 15 14
Home Builder 3 4 3 7 7 7 8 8
Friend or relative 9 8 8 7 7 7 8 8
Newspaper Ad 8 8 7 7 5 5 5 3
Directly from Sellers 4 3 4 4 5 3 3 3
Book or Magazine 3 3 2 1 2 1 1 1
Other 1 4 3 6 4 - - -

* Source: National Association of Realtors

About ForSaleByOwner.com

ForSaleByOwner.com is the nation’s leading for sale by owner website. Since 1999, ForSaleByOwner.com has saved home sellers more than one billion dollars by providing premium Internet marketing services, property pricing reports, real estate guidance and information, downloadable legal forms, as well as live customer support, to help customers independently sell their own homes. The company charges a modest fee for its wide range of advertising and real estate resources, priced from $89 to $899. In contrast, a person selling a $300,000 home through a real estate agent would be charged a 6% commission fee and pay approximately $18,000. Prospective homebuyers can browse property database, available at http://www.forsalebyowner.com, at no charge.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:57 AM | Comments (0)

Crest Nicholson Launches First Integrated Sustainability Report

Leading UK housebuilder Crest Nicholson marks a major change in reporting with an integrated sustainability report, combining business review and non-financial reporting in a single forward looking strategy.

Chertsey, Surrey (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- This year marks a significant step forward in Crest Nicholson's approach to reporting Corporate Responsibility with the launch of its first integrated Sustainability Report. This is the first report since the company delisted in 2007, and Crest Nicholson is taking the opportunity represented by significant corporate change to include a summary business review alongside both financial and non-financial performance and ambitions, all combined into a single, cohesive document.

Building on five years of reporting, and to respond to the needs of a wide range of stakeholders, the presents a forward-looking strategy, highlights the challenges and opportunities, and demonstrates how the company is tackling key sustainability issues whilst generating financial value for the business.

The report has been structured to better reflect the integrated nature of Crest Nicholson's business, and follows the key stages of the development process. It uses exemplar projects to present the spectrum of very real challenges and opportunities facing the sector, and reports on Crest Nicholson's performance and approach.

Commenting on the launch of the report, Crest Nicholson's Chief Executive, Stephen Stone, said: "Crest Nicholson puts sustainability at the heart of its' business model, and this Sustainability Report makes some clear statements about our performance and our forward looking strategy in what is a challenging business environment.

"In a slowing market, the ability to respond to sustainability issues is often put to the test, but to deliver the Government's programme of zero-carbon housing by 2016 it is essential that we continue to innovate and improve the way in which we operate as market leaders. In this report we illustrate how Crest Nicholson strives to achieve this, working with expert partners to research and implement cutting edge design concepts and build technologies that are necessary to deliver sustainable communities."

Key targets for the period 2008-9 include:
- Reducing carbon dioxide emissions arising from office and site activity by 25% by 2020
- Trialling innovative construction techniques and cutting edge technologies to deliver homes that perform to the higher levels of the Code for Sustainable Homes
- Halving the amount of construction waste sent to landfill by 2011
- Working with suppliers to develop a Sustainable Procurement Policy including a target to use 75% sustainably sourced timber by 2009
- Developing a carbon intensity study to accurately assess the emissions associated with building materials and construction activity
- All new sites submitted for planning will incorporate internal recycling facilities, water fittings to reduce daily consumption to 105 litres/person/day, 75% low energy lighting and water butts to encourage rainwater re-use
- Developing ways to support employees in reducing their carbon footprints through awareness raising initiatives, promotion of car-sharing, or the use of public transport.

Crest Nicholson is firmly established as a leading regeneration developer with a passion for not just building homes, but creating vibrant sustainable communities. The Company's track record shows demonstrable commitment to delivering innovative, design led, residential developments and large scale, mixed use, urban regeneration solutions. Its ongoing emphasis on environmentally responsible housing and commitment to deliver truly low carbon sustainable schemes is evident by an ever increasing development portfolio.

For more information about Crest Nicholson visit www.crestnicholson.com"> or contact Kerri Vinall or Helen Roache at Trimedia: call 020 7025 7500.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:57 AM | Comments (0)

MEP Jobs Integrated into the AIRS SourcePoint™ Sourcing Tool

MEP Jobs and AIRS announced today that MEP Jobs, the largest jobs and career site for MEP professionals, has been integrated into the AIRS SourcePoint™ enterprise sourcing technology solution.

Urbandale, IA (PRWEB) August 13, 2008 -- MEP Jobs and AIRS announced today that MEP Jobs, the largest jobs and career site for MEP professionals, has been integrated into the AIRS SourcePoint™ enterprise sourcing technology solution.

"AIRS is pleased to integrate MEP Jobs into the AIRS SourcePoint™ technology solution," said Chris Forman, President of AIRS. "Partnering with leading job boards such as MEP Jobs enables us to provide our clients with an even more robust solution to meet their growing needs."

"This integration allows MEP Jobs to better serve our thousands of mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing employers," said John von Harz, president of MEP Jobs.

About MEP Jobs
MEP Jobs is the leading online job board and resume bank for professionals in the mechanical, electrical and plumbing industries. MEP Jobs focuses exclusively on the specialty trade contractor segment, including contractors, manufacturers, wholesalers, facility managers, service organizations and executive search firms. MEP Jobs was founded in 1996, and is a service of Industry People Group.

About AIRS
AIRS is the answer to how businesses proactively acquire, develop and transition global talent with award-winning sourcing technology and training solutions. AIRS is a company of The RightThing, a leading recruitment process outsourcing provider. Together, they offer a full range of talent solutions. Please visit www.airsdirectory.com

About SourcePoint™
AIRS SourcePoint™ is the most advanced active and passive sourcing technology on the market. From 360-degree automated resume sourcing to name generation and sophisticated candidate e-marketing, AIRS SourcePoint™ is the industry's only enterprise sourcing solution that provides the entire suite of tools today's professional recruiter needs to be at the top of their game. With eight interchangeable modules, AIRS SourcePoint™ can affordably and effectively streamline any sourcing process while unleashing truly outstanding productivity gains and hiring outcomes for organizations.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:54 AM | Comments (0)

Golden Eagle Log Homes Doubles Log Offerings with Announcement of Expanded Manufacturing Facility

Leading log home manufacturer, Golden Eagle Log Homes, has significantly expanded their Wisconsin Rapids, WI facility, allowing them to double their log offerings. This not only increases what they can provide their customers, it also improves manufacturing efficiencies across the board.

Wisconsin Rapids, WI (PRWEB) August 12, 2008 -- Premier log home manufacturer Golden Eagle Log Homes has announced significant facilities expansions at their Wisconsin Rapids, WI mill. Tod Parmeter, Owner and Chief Operations Officer, reports this expansion as an additional 20,000 square foot of manufacturing facilities, another dry kiln and over 14,000 additional square feet of warehousing. Adding six more major pieces of production equipment has more than doubled what Golden Eagle could previously offer for log and corner styles. Parmeter says, "Our customers deserve a lot of choices, now we have something for everyone."

Even as media reports persist about the decline of the housing market, new log home construction continues to increase, particularly at Golden Eagle Log Homes, who offer an unprecedented level of options for their log and hybrid packages. The Wisconsin Rapids, WI facility also includes a home design center, which provides customers with deluxe materials options for doors, windows, hardware, kitchen and bath supplies. In addition to the countless custom home plans that Golden Eagle can create, they also offer a variety of existing floor plans ranging from 1,200 square feet to 7,000 square feet.

"The new products offerings will continue to increase sales opportunities for years to come," says Parmeter, "And in preparation of more sales, we decided to add more drying capability and in turn, more warehousing space. With the increased options we can now provide, we wanted to ensure that our customer response time wasn't affected - thus we needed to expand all parts of the facility." The expansion also brings with it efficiencies in labor, as some processes have been reduced from ten minutes to three minutes, and also increased automation within the facility.

In addition to labor efficiencies, Golden Eagle Log Homes also prides themselves on the eco-efficiencies of log homes. Unlike stick- built homes, which are built on site of the property, log homes are manufactured in a facility, where efficiency and accuracy can be optimally maintained. Once the manufacturing is complete, the home is simply shipped to the site, where it's quickly assembled. This process reduces the carbon footprint of a home build significantly, particularly when compared to that of typical stick built house. There's less waste, due to the efficient, climate controlled manufacturing environment, there's less pollution and property impact, since heavy machinery isn't required on-site for months at a time.

For more information on Golden Eagle Log Homes, their expanded facility, or their upcoming Wine Tasting event to support Evening of Angels cancer charity on September 20, please contact Golden Eagle Log Homes at 1-800-270-5025, or visit them on the web at www.goldeneagleloghomes.com

To see photos of Golden Eagle's amazing homes, contact Scott Rouleau at 860-677-0560, or via email at s.rouleau(at)sbcglobal.net.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:54 AM | Comments (0)

Phoenix based Creative Environments Design & Landscape Moves Headquarters to Tempe and Offers $100 in Free Gasoline to New Customers

Phoenix based Creative Environments Design & Landscape, the #1 Landscape Design and Build Company as voted by Phoenix residents, launched a new corporate office today. Located at 8920 S. Hardy Dr., Tempe, AZ 85284, the office will reduce costs and increase efficiencies with sister company Creative Environments Maintenance Services.

Chandler, AZ (PRWEB) August 12, 2008 -- Phoenix based Creative Environments Design & Landscape, the #1 Landscape Design and Build Company as voted by Phoenix residents, launched a new corporate office today. Located at 8920 S. Hardy Dr., Tempe, AZ 85284, the office will reduce costs and increase efficiencies with sister company Creative Environments Maintenance Services.

"In this economy, we feel it is important to create as many efficiencies as possible to keep our landscaping prices affordable," said John Waters, Co-Owner of Creative Environments. "By combining our headquarters with our sister company, Creative Environments Maintenance Services, we are able to stay competitive and continue to offer the very best landscape design and maintenance in the Valley."

As a part of this launch, Creative Environments is offering a special promotion for new customers: "This August - your stay-cation is on us...so fill 'er up on creative environments! That's right! Turn your vacation into a stay-cation by allowing us to transform your backyard into a resort environment. Fill up your back yard with a new Pool, BBQ, Decking, Water Feature, Gazebo or an overall makeover and Creative Environments will fill up your gas tank* with up to $100.00 of fuel for every $10,000 in landscape that we install on your property!"

To learn more about Creative Environments custom commercial and residential landscape design services call 480-458-4100 or visit CreativeEnvironments.com for a custom quote.

About Creative Environments:
Creative Environments Design & Landscape, an industry leader since 1950, is the largest and most respected Arizona landscape construction and design company. We continue to win local and national landscaping awards from industry peers, as well as receive the honor of #1 Landscape Design / Build Company, as voted by the residents of the Phoenix-metro area.

Although unique and functional design is our passion, outstanding customer service is our number one priority. Our talented Landscape Design and Construction Consultants will listen to you and then they will use their expertise to develop an architectural-quality landscape design plan that will create the outdoor living space of your dreams.

With our specialized construction crews and a fully-staffed customer care department, you can rest assured that your outdoor living environment will be installed correctly and on time.

Creative Environments can be found on the web at CreativeEnvironments.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:54 AM | Comments (0)

Roost.com Enhances Online Real Estate Search Coverage With Addition of San Francisco and Seattle

Comprehensive Property Search Engine Continues to Grow and Expand Its Offerings Within Key Markets

SAN FRANCISCO (Business Wire EON/PRWEB ) August 12, 2008 -- Roost, Inc. (www.roost.com), the fastest, most comprehensive search engine for finding your dream home, today announced the launch of its service in San Francisco and Seattle, two of the nation's most desirable and dynamic real estate markets. The addition of these new listings gives local home buyers the most accurate and up-to-date listings of single-family homes, new construction and for sale by owner properties on the Web and provides real estate agents with a streamlined and effective new way to connect with home seekers.

The addition of San Francisco and Seattle expands Roost's network to more than 5,000 popular U.S. cities and market areas. To develop the best, most accurate listings, Roost forms partnerships with local Multiple Listing Service (MLS) boards one community at a time. By contrast, other real estate search sites largely depend on broker feeds and other third party sources which are often unreliable and outdated. Roost's listings are always current because they are tied directly to the MLS. In fast-moving markets like San Francisco and Seattle, outdated information can quickly lead to frustration if a listed property has been sold or taken off the market.

"Our team at Roost takes great care to roll out new markets, and we're confident that these new market listings will live up to the best-in-class user experience that home buyers count on," said Alex Chang, CEO of Roost. "These are dynamic cities where the real estate market changes quickly. By using Roost, we know users will be better armed to make smart decisions in their home buying quest."

How Roost Works

Roost is a blazing-fast search engine that sits atop IDX, or Internet Data Exchange, sites. IDX is the national data sharing standard among all real estate brokers. Most popular real estate search sites are listing aggregators, and unlike IDX sites powered by the MLS, these sites get their listings from a variety of sources including brokers, magazine publishers, newspapers, other software companies, and sometimes, even each other. The result is often inaccurate and incomplete data, leading to frustration for home buyers. With Roost, users can create custom search profiles with simple filtering controls to sort by price range, square footage, numbers of bedrooms and bathrooms, neighborhood, school district, new or resale properties and more - even which homes have granite countertops or pools.

Additionally, Roost's platform and traffic-sharing approach with brokers helps agents form new connections with potential clients, serving as an important ally for real estate agents struggling to stay afloat in one of the most difficult housing markets in history.

"We're excited to have Roost here in San Francisco," said Randall Kostick, general manager of Zephyr Real Estate. "It's a win-win for home buyers, home sellers and agents alike. People who start their search with Roost have a much higher level of knowledge and confidence in what they're looking for and what's available, and that makes the purchasing process far more efficient and productive for everyone involved."

Roost recently earned the Innovator Award for Most Innovative Technology from Inman News, the leading source of independent real estate news and opinion for the industry.

About Roost, Inc.

Roost is an innovative online real estate platform that combines a network of individual real estate broker Web sites with a comprehensive search engine. Roost offers new search technology, an intuitive, visual interface and the most comprehensive property listings to help users find a home for sale and find it fast. The company works collaboratively with Multiple Listing Service (MLS) boards and real estate brokers in each region to provide up-to-date, accurate data. Roost.com currently lists homes for sale in thousands of other cities across the nation including; Atlanta; Austin; Baltimore; Boise; Boston; Chicago; Dallas; Denver; Fort Worth; Houston; Las Vegas; Miami; Minneapolis; Nashville; Orange County; Orlando; Philadelphia; Phoenix; Portland; Sacramento; San Diego; St. Paul; Tampa; Silicon Valley; St. Louis; and Washington D.C. areas, ensuring the results for each local search are complete. Roost was awarded the 2008 Innovator Award for Most Innovative Technology from Inman News, the leading source of independent real estate news and opinion for the industry. Founded in 2007, Roost.com is based in San Francisco, Calif. To start your home search, visit http://www.roost.com.

Release Summary:

Roost, Inc. (www.roost.com), the fastest, most comprehensive real estate search engine for finding your dream home, today announced the launch of its service in San Francisco and Seattle, two of the nation's most desirable and dynamic real estate markets.

Keyword Tags:

mls real estate search, online real estate, real estate online, real estate san francisco, real estate search, real estate search engines, real estate seattle, san francisco california real estate, san francisco real estate, search real estate, seattle real estate, seattle washington real estate

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:54 AM | Comments (0)

USA-ONE Interactive Presents a Free Webinar Series Introducing Docuvation – An Online Document Management Solution

See Docuvation in action by attending a free webinar hosted by USA-ONE interactive - the number one e-tailer of Docuvation. This presentation, hosted by a document management professional, is a rare opportunity to see a hands-on approach to managing office documents in an online environment.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) August 12, 2008 – USA-ONE Interactive (http://www.usa-one.com/) invites all small and medium sized businesses to see the power and simplicity of Docuvation first hand through a live webinar hosted by a document management professional.

Docuvation is an affordable outsourced Document Management Solution that works the way people work. There is no software to install, no specialized hardware to manage and no upfront capital investment. Users can begin adding structure, security, and instant access to all critical documents today.

Using a digital copy machine, a desktop scanner, or standalone scanner, easily convert paper documents into electronic documents and save them directly into secure Docuvation cabinets. Electronic documents such as Word, Excel, Email, or others can be saved, stored, and accessed from the same cabinets. Docuvation places the new incoming documents into an Inbox for filing and notifies assigned users that they have filing to do. File clerks simply select a folder and divider and complete the filing process. This process is much more efficient, cost effective, and accurate than tradi¬tional manual filing methods.

Backup, Compliance, Security, and Document Sharing are challenges for organizations of all sizes. These free webinars will answer many questions small and medium sized businesses have been asking for years. How do I better manage my office documents? How can I store mixed content in one central location. How do I become a paperless office? And maybe the most important question of all: How much is this really going to cost? Traditional Document Management Solutions cost too much and require more technical resources than small and medium size organizations can afford.

Docuvation from USA-ONE Interactive is both powerful and affordable. Want to learn more? - Click here to see the times and dates of these upcoming Docuvation webinars and register for one today!

Bill Thomas
Marketing
(303) 814-6088
bill(at)usa-one.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:53 AM | Comments (0)

Door Distributor Holds Key to Helping Endangered Species

Leading UK door distributor JB Kind has linked up with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) on an initiative that should save hundreds of endangered species in a rainforest in Indonesia's Jambi and South Sumatra provinces.

Swadlincote, Derbyshire (PRWEB) August 12, 2008 -- Independent door distributor JB Kind has linked up with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) on an initiative that should save hundreds of endangered species in a rainforest in Indonesia's Jambi and South Sumatra provinces. Named 'Harapan Rainforest' - after the Indonesian word for 'hope' - this initiative holds the country's first official licence to restore a forest ecosystem.

JB Kind Managing Director Philip Smith explains:

"At JB Kind we take pride in sourcing high quality products from around the world. Indonesia offers us excellent materials and workmanship, and to recognise this, we have been keen to further support this community. The RSPB has achieved a groundbreaking agreement to manage 101,000 hectares of wild-life rich, lowland Sumatran rainforest for the next 100 years and to do this successfully the project needs help from commercial sponsors like us, as well as the general public.

"Apart from a significant monetary donation, we are also taking the unusual and striking step of displaying colourful pictures of one of the rainforest's most endangered species on the rear of four of our lorries, with a message to everyone to play their part in saving the home of its wildlife and indigenous people.

"Over 280 species of birds make the Harapan Rainforest their home alongside an amazing array of flora and fauna - it's even more diverse than the Brazilian Amazon! The rare Sumatran Tiger will be seen by tens of thousands of people throughout the UK as its image will be painted across the complete rear door of our vehicles when they deliver more than 200,000 JB Kind doors nationwide each year.

"In addition, we have also decided to help our customers make the link between their door purchases and the ranges we source from Indonesia and we will be including a leaflet about this project within the packaging of every product that we deliver from these ranges.

"We hope that our contribution will make a real difference to the plight of the wildlife and the people in this extraordinary region of Indonesia and we encourage other businesses and individuals to contribute where they can."

To find out more about, or donate to, the Harapan Rainforest project in Sumatra, please visit http://www.rspb.org.uk/sumatra.

About the RSPB:
To find out more about the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, or the Harapan Rainforest project in Sumatra, please contact Gemma Rogers, or visit http://www.rspb.org.uk/sumatra.

Contact:
Gemma Rogers,
RSPB Media Officer
(+44) 01767 681 577

About JB Kind:
JB Kind is one of the UK's leading independent door distributors and boasts over 130 years of experience working within the timber trade. Based in Swadlincote in Derbyshire and employing 45 people, JB Kind sells more than 200,000 doors a year across the UK and in 2007 won the award for Business of the Year (25-100 employees) in their region.
See more information about JB Kind's range of Wooden Doors.

For more information, or an interview with JB Kind Managing Director Philip Smith

Contact:
Clare Bampton,
Bampton Communications
(+44) 01332 865 452

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:51 AM | Comments (0)

Rain Bird Announces the 2008 Intelligent Use of Water Award Finalists

Panel of Environmental Experts to Award One of Five Finalists With $10,000 In Recognition of Their Leadership, Innovation And Commitment to Landscape Water Conservation

AZUSA, Calif. (Business Wire EON/PRWEB ) August 12, 2008 -- Rain Bird, the leading manufacturer and provider of irrigation products and services, named the finalists for its 2008 Intelligent Use of Water™ Award, which recognizes persons or organizations whose innovation, leadership, ingenuity and overall commitment to improved landscape water efficiency has raised the standard for outdoor water conservation. The five finalists were selected by a panel of judges according to pre-determined criteria, including demonstrated water savings, preservation of landscapes, innovation and overall impact on the community.

The five finalists for the 2008 Intelligent Use of Water Award are:

Christopher S. Gray, Sr. – Benton, KY

Christopher has spent his entire career in golf course management creating and implementing innovative and effective golf course environmental stewardship programs. As General Manager/Director of Golf Course Operations at Marvel Golf Club in Benton, Kentucky, Christopher has been extremely proactive in water conservation programs on and off the golf course. Christopher has developed and implemented a very unique wastewater conservation program in which all rainwater and household wastewater generated from the homes surrounding the golf course is captured, treated and pumped into the course’s irrigation retention ponds. Providing over 14 million gallons of reclaimed water each year, once the Marvel Estates sub-division is completed, the innovative program has eliminated the need to pull water from the local water district or nearby Kentucky Lake for irrigation purposes.

David Salman – Santa Fe, NM

As the president and chief horticulturist of the retail nursery, Santa Fe Greenhouses, and its mail-order counterpart, High Country Gardens, David has spent the better part of 20-plus years in pursuit of beautiful and drought-tolerant plants for western landscapes. Regarded as one of Xeriscaping’s pioneers, he is dedicated to perfecting the growing methods for a wide variety of new and unusual waterwise perennials, grasses and shrubs. His work has resulted in the introduction of 24 new waterwise ornamental perennial plants that are now some of the region’s most widely used Xeric perennials. A national speaker and published author on the topic of waterwise Gardening and Xeriscaping, Salman is committed to demonstrating the beauty of waterwise gardens by maintaining and expanding Xeric display gardens at Santa Fe Greenhouses. In 2000, Santa Fe Greenhouses constructed a 39,000 gallon water collection cistern and reuse system, enabling the collection of rainwater from 55,000 square feet of greenhouse roof area to be used for irrigation of the facility’s perennial and annual plant collections. The system captures over an acre-foot of water in an average year, reducing the use of City water by about 25 percent.

Georgia Golf Course Superintendents Association (GGCSA) – Atlanta, GA

As Georgia’s water resources came under increased scrutiny in 2002, the GGCSA took a leadership role and began working with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division to develop a program that would achieve the goal of sustainable resource conservation. To demonstrate its commitment to keeping the Georgia golf industry healthy, while maintaining its status as an efficient user of water, the GGCSA challenged its members to create a set of best management practices (BMP). The groundbreaking effort was the first of its kind for the Georgia agriculture and green industry, and provided a road map for the area’s golf facilities to provide enjoyable playing conditions, while using water in the most efficient manner. Combining the use of efficient irrigation systems, irrigation audits, new grass varieties, communication and products such as wetting agents and plant growth regulators, and abstaining from over seeding, the GGCSA was able to document the conservation efforts of Georgia’s golf superintendents and promote the BMP program as a potential water conservation tool for all types of water users.

The Council on the Environment of NYC (CENYC) – New York, NY

As a hands-on nonprofit that is committed to increasing environmental awareness among New Yorkers and developing practical solutions to environmental problems, the CENYC develops and implements environmental education programs and initiatives that promote waste prevention and encourage the recycling of Earth’s natural resources. CENYC has worked with over 30 community garden groups in diverse neighborhoods throughout the New York City area to construct rainwater-harvesting (RWH) systems using simple piping and barrels to collect water from adjacent rooftops or garden structures. Each year, these systems divert more than 500,000 gallons of rainwater onto local gardens that would otherwise be lost or result in polluted water due to overloaded storm drains. CENYC runs workshops educating the public on RWH systems and other alternative water resources and teaches gardeners looking how to build their own RWH systems. The Council also offers environmental education programs that teach children how to get in touch with officials about fixing broken fire hydrants, show them how to monitor environmental conditions at their schools and in their neighborhoods, and organize plantings near local water sources including the Bronx River and the Delaware Watershed.

Glendale Xeriscape Demonstration Garden – Glendale, AZ

Established in 1992, the Glendale Xeriscape Demonstration Garden is a four-acre living laboratory that showcases low-water-use plants and educates the community on the benefits of water efficient gardening. Set on the grounds of the historic Glendale public library, the garden is a highly regarded resource that educates the public on developing water-efficient landscapes. The garden’s themed demonstration areas educate homeowners on the diversity and beauty of Xeriscape through displays of native plantings and proper drip irrigation watering techniques, as well as interpretive signage and audio tours that provide information about specific plants and landscape design techniques. The recently installed habitat gardens are certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a “Backyard Wildlife Habitat” and demonstrate rainwater-harvesting techniques. Over 15 free water-efficient landscape classes are offered every year to the public, and the garden implements several water education programs for children. The garden’s role in motivating the public to take advantage of the city’s landscape rebate program is evident as the number of gallons used per day by Glendale residents has decreased by more than fourteen percent since the garden first opened in 1992 and local residents have converted more than 215,000 square feet of turf to Xeriscape, saving an estimated water savings of more than 5 million gallons of water a year.

The recipient of the 2008 Intelligent Use of Water Award will be announced on October 11, 2008 at the Intelligent Use of Water Film Competition where they will be presented with $10,000 in acknowledgment of their contributions toward protecting Earth’s most precious resource.

The winner will be chosen by an esteemed panel of experts that includes: Elizabeth Cutright, editor, Water Efficiency magazine; Dan Stark, executive director of the American Public Gardens Association; Ron Stoltz, director of the School of Landscape Architecture at The University of Arizona; and Marty Eberhardt, executive director of The Water Conservation Garden, winner of the 2007 Intelligent Use of Water Award.

ABOUT RAIN BIRD CORPORATION

Based in Azusa, Calif., Rain Bird Corporation is the leading manufacturer and provider of irrigation products and services. Since its beginnings in 1933, Rain Bird has offered the industry’s broadest range of irrigation products for farms, golf courses, sports arenas, commercial developments and homes in more than 130 countries around the world. Rain Bird has been awarded more than 130 patents, including the first in 1935 for the impact sprinkler. Rain Bird and The Intelligent Use of Water is about using water wisely. Its commitment extends beyond products to education, training and services for the industry and the community. Rain Bird maintains state-of-the-art manufacturing assembly facilities in the United States, France, Sweden and Mexico. www.rainbird.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:51 AM | Comments (0)

RACO Partners With Z-Space

Two companies work together to provide customized data collection services to the business community.

Blue Ash, OH (PRWEB) August 12, 2008 -- RACO Industries and Z-Space Technologies are joining forces to offer customers a wider variety of data collection software and services. The value-added reseller and software development company are working together to create solutions for applications involving Inventory Management, Route Accounting, Asset Tracking, and Check In/Out, along with custom applications. Solutions Packs can be tailored to suit the business's exact needs at a highly competitive cost. RACO's hardware integration expertise and Z-Space's software development talent combine to make a formidable team providing world class products, services, and support.

"With our customers turning to RACO to provide complete end-to-end data capture (barcode) solutions and the need to seamlessly integrate with their existing systems, we required a highly flexible and scalable information management tool," says Larry Sherman, Manager of RACO's Advanced Solution Group. "Z-Space's flagship product ITScriptNet® provides RACO's integration team, a strong mobile solution for the enterprise."

Solution Pack applications soon to be released includes Survey/Audit, Access Control, Event Registration, File Tracking, Package Tracking, Student Attendance, Student Tracking, Event Scoring, Physical Inventory, and Time & Attendance.

"Working more closely with RACO allows us to benefit from their dedication to customer service and committed resources to AIDC," says Tim James, COO for Z-Space. "Partnering our products and services provides businesses cost-effective options with significant increases in productivity and a quick ROI."

RACO Industries is a leading value-added reseller of wireless data capture equipment, application software, and integration. RACO offers a large array of product lines from a widely diversified vendor base and is ready to meet the needs of any application. For more information, go to www.racoindustries.com or call 1-800-446-1991.

Z-Space Technologies is a software development company specializing in data collection applications. Z-Space's flagship product is ITScriptNet®, a data collection development and communication software package for batch and wireless data collection applications, with installations worldwide.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:51 AM | Comments (0)

Texas Based Crane and Rigging Company Expanding to Accommodate Needs of Petroleum Industry

Bishop Lifting Products, BLP, is adding a department to its Beaumont branch. The new "products" department will sell a variety of crane and rigging equipment currently in demand by petroleum companies operating in the Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coast region. The products department will work hand in hand with the company's existing services department.

Houston, TX (PRWEB) August 12, 2008 -- The recent oil and gas boom has in turn increased the demand for high quality lifting and rigging products in the petroleum industry. To fulfill this increase in product need, Texas based Bishop Lifting is excited to announce that they are expanding their Beaumont branch to include a Products Department. The new department will offer oil and gas industry clients an extensive list of lifting equipment. Products sold will include wire rope slings, web slings, rigging hardware, wire and synthetic ropes, tie down chains, straps and hoists.

The new division will complement the company's existing Services Department which has operated for many years in Beaumont and the surrounding areas of Jefferson County, Port Arthur, Orange, Lumberton, Sabine Lake and Lake Charles, Louisiana. Bishop Lifting's Beaumont Service Department will continue to offer clients both offshore and land-based inspection, testing, repair and consulting services. Technicians at the Beaumont branch undergo rigorous training and are able to service cranes, slings, hoists and a multitude of oilfield equipment. All rigging gear related work is recorded in a "Rigging Gear Registry" which includes detailed paper and electronic documentation according to ASME B30, API, OSHA 1910/1926, CMAA 70/74 and manufacturer's recommendations.

Bishop Lifting's marketing director David Moseley is excited about the Beaumont expansion and expects the products division to fill a crucial need for oil and gas companies operating in the Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coast Region. Moseley wants existing and new BLP customers to know that, "the products distributed in the Beaumont branch will carry the same trusted manufacturers' names and BLP quality that customers familiar with the Houston headquarters have come to expect". Some of the popular brands of product sold by Bishop Lifting include Crosby®, Thern®, Teufelberger®, Slingmax®, Campbell® Chain, Coffing® Hoists, Morse-Starrett®, Grignard®, Hillman Rollers®, Newco®, Capital Safety®, Klien Tools®, McKissick®, Renfroe® Wire Rope Industries, LTD and many others

Bishop Lifting Products, Inc. is a Texas Based company that has been manufacturing and distributing crane and lifting services and products for nearly a quarter of a century. They currently have over 100 dedicated employees throughout Texas, Louisiana and the Rocky Mountains who are ready to help companies and resellers in heavy lifting industries worldwide.

For more information about the exciting expansion of the Beaumont branch of BLP, contact David Moseley today at (800) 972-1041 toll free or log on to www.lifting.com

Contact:
Sarah Greer
Directory One Marketing
www.directoryone.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:51 AM | Comments (0)

LATISTA Executive VP to present at CMAA national conference

Christopher Ramsey, Executive Vice President of LATISTA Technologies, will be a featured speaker at the Construction Managers Association of America (CMAA) National Conference in San Francisco this October. He will demonstrate the construction applications of portable computers and web-based management software.

Reston, VA (PRWEB) August 11, 2008 -- Christopher Ramsey, Executive Vice President of LATISTA Technologies, will be a featured speaker at the Construction Managers Association of America (CMAA) National Conference in San Francisco this October to follow up a previous presentation given at the CMAA Leadership Forum in Baltimore in May 2008.

Mr. Ramsey's presentation, "Implementing Mobile Talent PCs and Web Tools for Quality Management and Commission," will demonstrate the use of portable computers and web-based mobile software on a construction job site that will reduce time spent noting and resolving issues related to quality, commission and punch lists as well as conducting quality and safety inspections and filing field reports. Audience members will also learn how software systems can store plans and drawings for markup, take photos for documentation, synchronize information and automatically generate reports for building owners, engineers, and subcontractors. Tablet PCs will be available for attendees to experience their benefits over pen and paper.

Mr. Ramsey will also detail how construction industry leaders have experienced the cost-savings benefits of construction management software in their reduction of office staff, elimination of paperwork, and decrease in inspection times. Audience members should come away from the presentation appreciating the benefits of a mobile software solution that reduces turnaround time from days or weeks to mere hours.

The CMAA National Conference is scheduled for October 12-14 at the Hyatt Regency Embarcadero Hotel in San Francisco where Mr. Ramsey will present on October 14 at 3:30 p.m. as an Emerging Technologies expert. LATISTA Technologies will also be on display during the conference trade show in booth 112. Conference registration is still available online at the CMAA website.

About LATISTA Technologies
LATISTA has been a leader in mobile and web-based field management software and services since its founding in Reston, Virginia, in 2001. Its software is used by top 200 contractors and top 50 owners worldwide to reduce project costs and risks by eliminating redundancy, enhancing collaboration among project participants, and allowing more thorough analysis of project performance.

Media Contact
Nat Moes, Marketing Communications Manager
(703) 391-1070x155, nmoes(at)latista.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:51 AM | Comments (0)

The Marketing Directors, Inc. Tapped To Oversee Sales At Five New York City Residential Buildings

The Marketing Directors, Inc. has been appointed marketing and exclusive sales agent for five new luxury residential buildings located throughout New York City. The signature buildings include 254 Park Avenue South; The Fairchild in TriBeCa; 34 Leonard in TriBeCa; Centria located adjacent to Rockefeller Center; and The Classic at Kew Gardens in Queens.

New York, NY (PRWEB) August 11, 2008 -- The Marketing Directors, Inc. has been appointed marketing and exclusive sales agent for five new luxury residential buildings located throughout New York City.

The signature buildings include 254 Park Avenue South, 167 premium homes in a 14-story building rising in Manhattan's vibrant Flatiron neighborhood; The Fairchild, 21 exclusive residences housed in a distinctive nine-story building in TriBeCa; 34 Leonard, 16 loft-like homes located in an eight-story building in TriBeCa; Centria, 152 residences in a 34-story building situated adjacent to Rockefeller Center; and The Classic at Kew Gardens, 52 condominium homes located in this fashionable Queens neighborhood.

"We're delighted to have been chosen to handle the exclusive sales of these extraordinary residential properties," notes Jacqueline Urgo, President of The Marketing Directors, Inc.

"Today's real estate and economic climates require an even greater emphasis on conceiving and executing comprehensive marketing and sales programs that are innovative, creative and credible. We're confident that our experience in leading clients through similar market conditions will prove to be a tremendous asset as we execute these unique campaigns."

254 Park Avenue South is a newly renovated condominium complete with all the desired amenities and services of new construction, yet is located in the vibrant Flatiron neighborhood along Park Avenue South and 20th Street. The thoughtfully-designed residences feature sensational City views enhanced by oversized windows. Developed by Rosen Partners, LLC, the luxury building features studios-to-two-bedroom residences priced from $560,000. Amenities include 24-hour concierge, a fitness center, an exclusive "Park Lounge" featuring poker and pool tables, bar and social environment; all custom designed by Charles Allem.

Sales will begin later this year at The Fairchild, a new collection of 21 spectacular townhomes, penthouses and lofts -- many with private outdoor space -- ideally located at 415 Washington Street in TriBeCa. Developed by Atlantic Walk Vestry, the distinctive nine-story building features a traditional warm brick façade with oversized arched windows that reflect the industrial age of 19th century New York. Prices are expected to range from $1,965,000 to $8,995,000.

Several sales have already been recorded at 34 Leonard. Located on the corner of West Broadway and Leonard Street in TriBeCa, the new building from R Squared Real Estate Partners features one-to-four-bedroom homes offering from 1,541 to 3,086 square feet of living space. Prices range from $1,975,00 to 7,995,000. Amenities include a 24-hour Doorman, Personal Art Consultant, entrance gallery with original video art by Jennifer Steinkamp, Fitness Center, Pet Spa, climate controlled wine cellar and tasting room (300 wine bottle storage per home), resident storage, and a landscaped roof top terrace with a barbecue/prep bar, outdoor shower and sun area.

The Marketing Directors was engaged to sell a select group of homes at J.D. Carlisle Development's 152-home Centria, which is currently 90% sold. Located across from the Rockefeller Center promenade, the building features studios-to-two-bedroom homes that were designed as pied a terres for local and European buyers who wanted the convenience of the location in the heart of this prominent business district. Remaining residences are priced from $1,200,000. Amenities include a fitness center; conference room with video conferencing capabilities and fully- equipped Business Center; private dining room with adjacent catering kitchen; separately-ventilated Cigar Lounge; Residents Lounge overlooking Rockefeller Plaza with gracious seating area; and two intimate landscaped terraces.

Sales are underway at The Classic at Kew Gardens, a new luxury condominium being developed by the family-owned Kamali Organization. The six-story building perfectly blends old world charm with modern amenities due to a unique architectural design that combines four newly added floors with two existing levels that all pay homage to the English Colonial design commonly found in Kew Gardens. The one-to-three-bedroom homes feature from 574 to 1,385 square feet of living space at prices that begin in the mid-$300,000s. Amenities include a doorman, fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, a children's playroom and a social lounge.

About The Marketing Directors

Founded in 1980 by Adrienne Albert, The Marketing Directors, Inc. specializes in the marketing and sales of new, high-end residential real estate developments. The Manhattan-based firm has served clients on a range of projects, from single-family homes to high-density, multi-use developments in locations across the country. Currently, The Marketing Directors employs in excess of 170 employees and boasts more than $20 billion in real estate sales. The firm is part of the Ryness family of companies, which has earned a stellar reputation since 1975 during the planning, designing, marketing and sales of more than 175,000 homes in over 2,000 communities.

For more information on The Marketing Directors, call 212-826-8822 or visit www.themarketingdirectorsinc.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:51 AM | Comments (0)

In the Dark About How to Pick Window Treatments? PaylessDecor.com Announces Redesign That Sheds Light on Decorating

Payless Décor LLC announces the redesign of its online store, PaylessDecor.com, which makes it easier for expert and beginner decorators to explore window treatment design ideas. The site throws open the shades on home decorating with hundreds of products and ideas for interesting window treatments, all in one place.

(PRWEB) August 11, 2008 -- Payless Décor LLC announces a redesign of PaylessDecor.com that should enlighten customers who feel they're in the dark about home décor. In addition to an easy-to-navigate showroom, the discount window treatment retailer offers its online shoppers free samples and photo galleries that illustrate design ideas for window treatments.

According to Payless Décor Chief Executive Officer Seth Roseman, individuals with little knowledge about how to pick window treatments should find the updated site helpful.

"Our site is designed to demonstrate to a customer that they can make their blind or shade purchase online and easily," explained Payless Décor CEO Seth Roseman. "With our new site design, our intention is to create a pleasant purchase process that drives an excellent overall experience - from browsing the products to ordering the free samples, all the way through installation."

Products sold at PaylessDecor.com include contemporary kitchen and bathroom window treatments, bamboo blinds and bay window drapery treatments, among dozens of other types of decor. Roller shades for windows are gaining in popularity among Payless Décor customers, and the company recently added rugs to its long list of products, said Roseman.

Site visitors can view a variety of treatment styles in Payless Décor's photo galleries to gather design ideas. For window treatments in non-standard dimensions, or ones that must fit unusual spaces, customization options are also available.

All customers receive free shipping on their orders and the support of 24-hour customer service. "And by purchasing online, they not only get an excellent product, but also receive a terrific price," Roseman added, referring to the online store's 110 percent guarantee and discounts on large orders.

"Our focus is providing an excellent product at a reasonable price," Roseman said.

For energy-conscious home owners interested in window treatments that keep light out and insulate the home from heat, PaylessDecor.com also features sun blocking window shades such as heat-absorbing cordless cellular shades and lined curtains and drapes.

Professional or amateur home decorators who wish to keep up with what's new in window treatments can get assistance on how to pick window treatments. For more information visit the redesigned showroom at PaylessDecor.com.

About Payless Décor LLC:

Payless Décor LLC, a leading Internet retailer of stunning window treatments, was founded in 2002 to provide home owners and decorators with inexpensive window treatments. Products in the company's online store, PaylessDecor.com, include window blinds, shades, drapes, window curtains and easy-to-navigate photo galleries that inspire design ideas for window treatments.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:50 AM | Comments (0)

PremierGarage Provides Additional Incentive to Enhance Your Garage with the “Ultimate Give-A-Way”

PHOENIX (Business Wire EON/PRWEB ) August 11, 2008 -- PremierGarage, the nation’s largest garage enhancement provider, is providing homeowners a new incentive to upgrade or transform their garages. With the newly launched “The Ultimate Give-A-Way,” customers have the chance to win exciting prizes, including a new Mercedes-Benz, cash and gas cards.

The contest runs from August 1 through October 31, 2008. To be eligible, a customer must make a minimum PremierGarage purchase of $500 (net of taxes) and register online, or fill out and submit a 3”x5” entry card to a designated post office box in advance of the contest deadline.* Prizes include a 24-month lease on a 2008 C300 Sports Sedan from Mercedes-Benz and the chance to win an additional $25,000 in cash. Two second prize winners will each receive a $1,000 gas card.

“PremierGarage helps transform what can be the most neglected room in the house to a beautiful, organized and livable space,” said Vice President of Sales and Business Development Brad Randolph. “Not only do discerning homeowners benefit from our durable and high-quality cabinetry and flooring systems, they now have the added chance to park a Mercedes Benz in their newly enhanced garage.”

*Visit www.premiergarage.com for sweepstakes rules and details. Contact your nearest PremierGarage location to schedule a free in-home design consultation.

About PremierGarage

PremierGarage specializes in residential floor coatings, cabinetry and organizational systems utilizing state-of-the-art materials and technologies. It set the industry standard for durability and quality by creating innovative products with lasting beauty. Founded in Arizona in 1999, PremierGarage has nearly 100 locations in the U.S. and Canada, and has been recognized as one of America’s 500 fastest growing companies and one of the 50 fastest growing franchises.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:49 AM | Comments (0)

Marketing and Internet Solutions Firm Comtactics Selected to Manage Marketing and Equipment Installation Contract

Comtactics, an emerging marketing and Internet solution firm based in Dayton, Ohio, has been selected by a Cincinnati church to manage the purchase and installation of new equipment.

Dayton, Ohio (PRWEB) August 11, 2008 -- Bishop Victor Couzens of Inspirational Baptist Church in Cincinnati, Ohio, has selected Comtactics (www.Comtactics.net) to manage the church's purchase and installation of more than $400,000 worth of equipment. Comtactics will oversee operations as the church builds upon its community, which will include a skating rink and sports complex.

Included in the installation will be a custom-designed podium that will rise from the bottom of a stage at the click of a remote-controlled button.

"Bishop was looking for someone to provide a classy design with high-tech features, and he was very clear that he did not want to compromise on the sound quality," says Sean E. Fields, co-founder of Comtactics. "With this partnership, Comtactics will provide Inspirational Baptist Church the quality, professional service necessary to effectively complete such an important endeavor."

Couzens selected Comtactics because the company provided "the most detailed proposal out of all those who bid on the contract." Couzens "was also impressed with their track record and client reference response."

In addition to the equipment installation contract, Couzens has partnered with Comtactics to become the official spiritual guide for the company's community Web site, ChurchOhio.com, which provides information for individuals and churches looking for the latest Christian news in the Ohio area.

Founded in 2004 by husband and wife team Sean and Shawntay Fields, Comtactics is a choice firm for businesses targeting the urban and multicultural market. As part of its efforts, Comtactics provides audio/video installation and custom designs for customers looking to set themselves apart.

"The urban market is an underground vibe that constantly reflects world peace or adversity. Therefore, you cannot target it -- you have to become one with it and cater to its current position. The urban market is too unorthodox for traditional strategies," Sean E. Fields says.

Comtactics co-founder Shawntay agrees.

"Consumers are no longer passive. This has become a world of customer participation: they blog, they share news and information over the Internet, they YouTube their video … if you want to get the attention of today's consumer, you have to allow them to engage in the process," Shawntay Fields says.

For more information about Comtactics or its contract with Inspirational Baptist Church, visit www.Comtactics.net.

Contact:
Comtactics Llc
Phone: 937.223.3040
Toll Free: 1.800.975.5161
Service @ comtactics.net
www.Comtactics.net

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:49 AM | Comments (0)

Keeping Industrial Clients Cool Creating a Hot Demand In Houston Job Market

Custom Air Products and Services, a company that provides custom HVAC products and services for petrochemical and marine Industries, is looking to hire engineers, electricians and other skilled workers.

Houston (PRWEB) August 11, 2008 -- The industrial and offshore industries are booming right now, with many companies needing to fill key positions to crew offshore oil rigs and industrial petrochemical plants. But the boom is also creating jobs and growth in other fields, including those companies that specialize in the design, manufacturing, installation and service of HVAC equipment and systems.

Houston based Custom Air Products and Services, Inc. announced today that it is aggressively looking for new employees in order to fulfill their existing orders and new contracts. The oil and gas economy has caused an increased demand on their unique company which designs, builds and services portable HVAC equipment for use on oil rigs and industrial facilities around the world.

Custom Air Products and Services, Inc. President Taylor Norris says his company is in critical need for all positions ranging from electrical and mechanical engineers to draftsmen, cad operators, service personnel and sheet metal installers. "Not only am I concerned about filling positions to cover existing orders," explains Norris, "but new orders are coming in every day. In order to keep up with our expanding business, we need to immediately expand our staff." The company has increased its business by 25% since last year, largely due to it's expertise in designing and building severe duty HVAC air conditioners. These units are essential on oil rigs and petrochemical plants in order to keep sensitive computers and equipment cool.

The ever increasing demand for fossil fuel has many oil companies going back to oil rigs that were once abandoned and not considered economically feasible when oil was $50 a barrel. At the current sky rocketing price, companies can afford to drill at high risk and marginal sites. "These rigs are being upgraded with the latest computer technology and with all that new equipment comes the need for a reliable HVAC system that will keep it cool and safe," says Norris.

In addition to oil rigs, Custom Air Products and Services, Inc. also manufacture air conditioning, pressurization and refrigeration systems to withstand extreme conditions and special electrical classifications at petrochemical facilities. These types of units differ from others because they have stronger coils, a blower and filtration system that doesn't produce sparks, specific electrical classifications and a stronger body casing that is often explosion proof.

Top economists predict the oil boom to last for the next 15 to 20 years. The demand for custom and portable cooling units created by the boom will only grow as well. Because of this demand, it is vital that Custom Air Products and Services, Inc. grow its staff. A list of current job openings can be found at www.customairproducts.com. The company offers competitive salaries, annual reviews, healthcare, retirement, paid sick days and vacations.

Custom Air Products and Services is a Houston based, full service HVAC Company that specializes in the design, construction, installation, modification and servicing of industrial and commercial air conditioning units.

Sarah Greer
Directory One Marketing
www.directoryone.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:48 AM | Comments (0)

Ocean Quest Pools Receives 2008 Best of Austin Award

Ocean Quest Pools has been selected for the 2008 Best of Austin Award in the Swimming Pools category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA). The 2008 USLBA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USLBA and data provided by third parties.

Washington, DC (PRWEB) August 11, 2008 -- Ocean Quest Pools has been selected for the 2008 Best of Austin Award in the Swimming Pools category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA).

The USLBA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USLBA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

founded in 1983, Ocean Quest Pools is no stranger to winning awards. At last count, Ocean Quest Pools had received more than 166 awards for quality and design excellence. "We've always pushed the envelope on cutting edge design," stated Sandy Vollentine, the owner of Ocean Quest Pools. "It's nice to know that our work is being recognized."

Ocean Quest Pools is credited for bringing the concept of "vanishing edge" pools to central Texas in the 1980s. They also pioneered the natural/rugged free-form lagoon style swimming pool, well in advance of their competition. Ocean Quest was recognized as one of the countries top 50 pool builders by industry magazine Pool & Spa News. More information is available at www.OceanQuest.com, or by calling 512-258-7379.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2008 USLBA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USLBA and data provided by third parties.

About U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA)
U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA) is a Washington D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USLBA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.

The USLBA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.

SOURCE: U.S. Local Business Association

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:48 AM | Comments (0)

Mining for Diamonds in Today's Commercial Real Estate Market

"Diamonds in the Rough," the firm's most recent podcast, examines the current commercial real estate environment based on a variation of the four Cs used to evaluate what a popular song from 1949 called "a girl's best friend." However, instead of relying on cut, color, clarity, and carat, commercial real estate investors need to assess the current market based on clarity, conviction, cash, and closings.

(PRWEB) August 10, 2008 -- In its continuing effort to help developers and investors transact business efficiently and profitably, Richmond-based John B. Levy & Company has produced another in a series of podcasts that explains trends and issues affecting the commercial real estate market.

"Diamonds in the Rough," the firm's most recent podcast, examines the current commercial real estate environment based on a variation of the four Cs used to evaluate what a popular song from 1949 called "a girl's best friend." However, instead relying on cut, color, clarity, and carat, commercial real estate investors need to assess the current market based on clarity, conviction, cash, and closings.

"Normal markets possess all four of these features--clarity, conviction, cash, and closings," says Andrew Little, a principal at John B. Levy & Company. "Today, we're lucky to have one. Even in the depths of the RTC crisis, we had motivated sellers and opportunistic buyers who could find cash. They closed on some unbelievable long-term investments. Now, everyone is foggy headed. We have reluctant, emotional sellers, and buyers are acting like carrion beetles."

Several factors explain the lack of clarity. The high cost of gas and groceries affects nearly everyone, including retailers, so there's growing concern over retail rents and vacancies. With many condos standing empty, investors are wondering about the direction of apartment rents. The changing costs of transportation and imports affect warehouse and industrial markets. And as employment levels continue to shrink, office vacancies and rents become an issue.

"As for conviction, that's missing, too," Little says. "Lenders have increased pricing to the point that nothing's getting done. Private equity groups are loaded with cash. But why invest today when prices could be lower tomorrow? Tenants, meanwhile, are at a standstill. Retailers are scrapping plans to expand, even closing stores. And who wants to commit to more office space?"

Cash is a story of haves and have-nots. Nearly every corporation today--from GE to GM, Fannie to Freddie--is focused on liquidity. Few lenders are growing their portfolios, and most are trying to manage or reduce their exposure. As the amount of cash available for deals shrinks, the price of capital is rising for developers and lenders alike.

Without clarity, conviction, and cash, closings are out of the question. For that to happen, banks that are short on cash need to clean up their balance sheets and sell assets, perhaps at a discount.

"Today, the market is placing a premium on liquidity," says Little, "and that can work for both lenders and developers. For now, there's nothing we can do about clarity. But there is cash for high quality transactions, and conviction is up to the individual. Investors who make money in this environment will be the ones who get three of the four Cs. They'll secure cash and, because of strong conviction, they'll see their deals through to closing."

Firm Background
John B. Levy & Company, Inc. is a real estate investment-banking firm headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. The firm has structured over $3.5 billion in financing for developers and owners of commercial and multi-family projects nationwide, often investing its own proprietary funds into transactions with its clients. Mr. Levy is the originator and author of the Barron's/John B. Levy & Company National Mortgage Survey, which Barron's published for 23 years. This monthly survey tracks more than 30 of the country's largest institutional investors, as well as buyers and sellers of commercial mortgage-backed securities, He is also co-creator of The Giliberto-Levy Commercial Mortgage Performance Index (sm), the first and pre-eminent index to measure and analyze the performance of investments in the commercial mortgage industry. Mr. Levy is also a member of the Board of Directors of Anthracite Capital Inc. (NYSE: AHR), a New York Stock Exchange REIT managed by BlackRock, Inc.

For more information about John B. Levy & Company, please visit the firm's website at www.jblevyco.com or call Andrew Little at 804-644-2000, extension 260.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:47 AM | Comments (0)

Improvement Direct Launches American Red Cross Promotion

Intern Project of Internet Home Improvement Retailer Targets Disaster Relief Across the Country

Chico, CA (PRWEB) August 10, 2008 -- Improvement Direct, No. 148 Internet Retailer Top 500 Guide, announces today the launch of their American Red Cross Promotion. During the week long promotion, lasting August 11-17, Improvement Direct will donate 3% of all purchases from www.LightingDirect.com to the Red Cross Disaster Relief fund. The promotion, which began as a project for the summer interns, stemmed from the company's desire to help Americans affected by natural disasters around the country, and the wildfires happening in Improvement Directs Northern California area.

"I am very excited about this promotion and the opportunity to help those in need," said Julie Gardner, V.P. of Vendor Relations. "We very much appreciate the overwhelming response from our vendors' desire to get involved as well. We are hoping to make a significant contribution, and we appreciate our key partners which are helping to make this happen." Improvement Direct is being supported by Kichler, Quoizel, Murray Feiss, Sea Gull, Emerson, and Monte Carlo lighting companies who are matching Lighting Directs donation to the Red Cross.

Customers can contribute to this promotion by going to www.LightingDirect.com and purchasing one of the many varieties of competitively-priced lighting fixtures. "It is the chance to make a change in the world and help those in need that inspires us to make this fund raiser as successful as possible," said Diane Russell, Copywriting Intern, summer 2008.

About Improvement Direct

Headquartered in Chico, California, Improvement Direct has established itself as a groundbreaking and prominent home improvement e-tailer. Improvement Direct creates a unique web experience, encouraging customers to explore a diverse range of "niche" stores within its network. This eCommerce company is focused on continual growth within the home improvement industry and is among the category leaders in Plumbing, Lighting, Door Hardware, and Venting. For more information on Improvement Direct please visit the corporate website at: http://corp.improvementdirect.com.

About the American Red Cross
All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year, disasters like the Three Rivers Wildfires in Northern California, by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation. Call 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org. For more information about the American Red Cross, please visit www.redcross.org.

Contact: Marissa Colwell, Public Relations, Improvement Direct, (800) 375-3403 x430

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:45 AM | Comments (0)

Los Angeles's Newest and Trendiest Remodeling Agency

Benmo Design is Los Angeles's newest and trendiest Remodeling agency. From Remodeling to Designing to Kitchen and Bath products Benmo Design caters to a more modern customer.

Los Angeles, CA (Bluehost/PRWEB ) August 10, 2008 -- Benmo Design is L.A.s newest and trendiest remodeling agency. From their Bath and Kitchen products to their Bath and Kitchen designs Benmo Design caters to a more modern customer.

Benmo design has been in the field of remodeling for over 25 years. They have recently opened up their new online store to the public. Their products cater to your kitchen, bath, and flooring needs.

Benmo has relized after 25 years it was time to expand to reach more customers. Benmo has revolutionized his remodeling and design team to think outside the box and forget about the convential styles.

Realizing that they are loosing money to stores selling Kitchen, Bath, and Flooring products Benmo decided to import its own products directly from the manufacture which inturn saved its customers money. Benmo has now opened up its online store to the public.

Ranging from the newest and most modern sinks to a more classical faucet look they have it all.

Visit them on the web at BenmoDesign.com or give them a call at 323.319.2733 for more information

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:45 AM | Comments (0)

Creaser/O'Brien Architects is Pleased to Announce that Keith Nelson, Associate AIA, Has Been Awarded the Designation of Certified Green Professional (CGP)

This designation, administered by the NAHB University of Housing, identifies Keith as a professional with knowledge of proven strategies for incorporating green building principles into home design and construction methods. Combining these advanced methods with Creaser/O'Brien's history of award winning residential design performance, we can provide a new level of comprehensive services to our homebuilder clients.

Washington, DC (PRWEB) August 10, 2008 -- Creaser/O'Brien Architects can provide the following professional services which can include:

* Evaluate your new or current home designs for compliance to the NAHB Green Building Guidelines or the LEED for Homes building program…homebuilders may already be building GREEN and may be missing out on a critical marketing edge!
* Facilitate and assist in expediting the inspections and testing process to attain various levels of recognized certification.
* Advise your staff and field personnel in obtaining green building educational resources.
* Alert and apprise homebuilders about new and emerging technology, products, and trends in this constantly expanding market that indicates an increasing demand by homebuyers for sustainable and environmentally friendly new home.

Since 1978, the principals at Creaser/O'Brien Architects (COA) have provided a full range of Architectural and Planning Services to distinguished clients in the Mid-Atlantic region. The Corporation's principals continue to be personally active in all phases of the project design and management, overseeing a staff of architects, designers and support personnel.

Randy Creaser and Jay O'Brien, along with project coordinator Ricardo Ramos, have established reputations for providing innovative, high quality architectural services to an impressive roster of clients in both the public and private sectors, including Federal GSA, Montgomery County Government, and Habitat for Humanity.

Having won over 50 Mounument Awards, Creaser/O'Brien Architects has demonstrated creative design abilities for residential homebuilders including Craftstar Homes, Stanley Martin, Miller and Smith, Van Metre Companies, Brookfield Homes, Kettler Brothers Homes and many local developers and builders. Also included in our award winning designs are custom homes from 9,000 square feet to the green (the not so big house) flexible-space homes at under 2000 square feet. For a look at some of our portfolio of homes, visit us at www.creaserobrien.com

For over thirty years we have met our clients' diverse needs in the fields of planning, architectural design and engineering with a comprehensive package of responsible professional design services which effectively implement projects from conceptual design though construction and occupancy. As a small business, founded in 1996, COA and it's team of engineering consultants have completed architectural planning and design for new facilities and renovations of existing buildings along with engineered upgrades of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems for government, institutional, business and residential clients.

Creaser/O'Brien Architects is also an active member of the U.S. Green Building Council

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:44 AM | Comments (0)

Building Knowledge Inc. Selected by U.S. Green Building Council to Serve Minnesota Green Home Construction Market

Minneapolis based Building Knowledge Inc. has been selected by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to serve the Minnesota market as a LEED for Homes Provider. LEED for Homes certification provides third-party assurance to homebuyers that their home complies with rigorous technical requirements for energy and water efficiency, indoor air quality, non-toxic materials, and environmental performance. Building Knowledge Inc. (BKI) is a leading developer of national programs, educational, training, and marketing materials on homebuilding best practices and has trained and consulted with thousands of builders and residential construction professionals.

Minneapolis, MN (PRWEB) August 9, 2008 -- Minneapolis based Building Knowledge Inc. has been selected by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to serve the local market as a LEED for Homes Provider. LEED for Homes is national third-party certification system for energy efficient, healthy, green homes. LEED for Homes Providers are selected by USGBC based on their demonstrated experience and expertise in green homebuilding as well as their commitment to their local community. Providers are responsible for serving as a resource for builders and for overseeing qualified green home raters who complete the onsite reviews required for certification under LEED.

"We have a passion for helping people and companies improve the quality of homes - homes that are durable, comfortable, safe, and healthy, and that are better for the environment and the economy," said Ed VonThoma, President of Building Knowledge Inc. "Building Knowledge provides technical, marketing and verification support services to builders along with third-party verification services, including both on-site reviews and performance testing necessary for LEED certification."

LEED for Homes certification provides third-party assurance to homebuyers that their home complies with rigorous technical requirements for energy and water efficiency, indoor air quality, non-toxic materials, and environmental performance. Typical green home features include high efficiency heating and cooling systems and windows; nontoxic paints and adhesives; recycled and renewable building materials; and drought-resistant landscaping that does not require irrigation.

Building Knowledge Inc. (BKI) is an industry-leading privately held company of building experts and educators, whose mission is to provide ideas and solutions to improve the quality of homes. Our team consists of some of the industry's leading experts in: Green building; Building science; Designing, building and selling high performance homes; and Mechanical and systems engineering. We're proud to say that some of the industry's best building experts and educators work with BKI. It's our team's experience that allows us to help our clients to build better homes, and better businesses.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:44 AM | Comments (0)

Hanley Wood Announces the Launch of ebuildTV and CONCRETE CONSTRUCTIONTV

Hanley Wood's BuildTV launches its newest Web TV channels, ebuildTV and CONCRETE CONSTRUCTIONTV, delivering exclusive video coverage on the latest products and trends in the residential and commercial construction industries.

Washington DC (PRWEB) August 9, 2008 -- Hanley Wood, LLC, the leading media and information company serving the residential and commercial construction industries, announces the launch of ebuildTV and CONCRETE CONSTRUCTIONTV.

Hanley Wood's BuildTV launches its newest channel, ebuildTV, with an exclusive episode from the ebuild/BUILDING PRODUCTS Editorial Director, Jean Dimeo. In ebuildTV's premier episode, Dimeo debuts the latest bathroom product trends, including water-conserving toilets and the increasing demand for matching bathroom accessories.

ebuildTV is the latest feature on ebuild.com, the online destination for residential construction pros searching for product information, sourcing new products and trends, learning to do their jobs faster and safer, and connecting professionals with product manufacturers, experts and peers. A dedicated e-mail to more than 100,000 opt-in subscribers will announce ebuildTV's launch and the future release of all new episodes. As the online extension of BUILDING PRODUCTS magazine, ebuild generates more then 170,000 unique visitors each month. Together, BUILDING PRODUCTS and ebuild are the comprehensive source of information on the latest products and trends for builders and remodelers.

Hanley Wood's BuildTV also debuts CONCRETE CONSTRUCTIONTV to deliver products, trends and best practice coverage to the growing concrete construction market. With licensed video content, CONCRETE CONSTRUCTIONTV launches with a detailed presentation on how fly ash can reduce CO2 emissions and how it works with cement.

CONCRETE CONSTRUCTIONTV is a groundbreaking addition to the CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION Web site, the industry's most comprehensive and authoritative source of technical and how-to information for concrete construction and repair. A dedicated e-mail to more than 40,000 opt-in subscribers will announce the launch of CONCRETE CONSTRUCTIONTV and the release of all future episodes. As the Web component of CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION magazine, the site generates more than 30,000 unique visitors each month.

Hanley Wood's BuildTV is an online video platform that provides industry professionals with up-to-date, on-demand information. Each episode features successful business tips, solutions to common industry problems and the latest product information. Hanley Wood's BuildTV was recently announced a winner in min's 2008 Best of the Web Awards for best overall use of video on a site.

To learn more about Hanley Wood's BuildTV visit buildtv.com.

About Hanley Wood

Hanley Wood, LLC, is the premier media and information company serving housing and construction. Through four operating divisions, the company produces award-winning magazines and Web sites, marquee trade shows and events, rich data and custom marketing solutions. The company also is North America's leading publisher of home plans. Hanley Wood Business Media (Washington, D.C.), publishes 36 award-winning residential and commercial construction titles, including Builder, Remodeling, Custom Home, Concrete Construction and residential architect. Hanley Wood Business Media also offers the construction industry's foremost collection of Web sites, including Builder Online, Remodeling Online, and ebuild, the comprehensive online guide to building products, as well as the largest collection of house plans online through ePlans.com and Dream Home Source.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:43 AM | Comments (0)

Paterson Named Group Human Resource Manager for DORMA Group North America

DORMA Group North America (DGNA) has appointed Jim Paterson as Group Human Resource Manager. He will be responsible for managing human resource functions for DGNA business units including DORMA Architectural Hardware, DORMA Glas, DORMA Entrance Systems and Modernfold Inc.

Reamstown, Pa. (PRWEB) August 9, 2008 -- DORMA Group North America (DGNA) ( www.dorma-usa.com ) has appointed Jim Paterson as Group Human Resource Manager. He will be responsible for managing human resource functions for DGNA business units including DORMA Architectural Hardware, DORMA Glas, DORMA Entrance Systems and Modernfold Inc.

Working with human resource managers within each division, Paterson will continue to develop employee training programs to improve performance and hone leadership skills. In addition, he will help align policies and procedures for more than 900 employees throughout North America.

"Paterson has over two decades of experience in human resources with premier manufacturing and service organizations and will be key in the growth and development of the DGNA companies," says Larry O'Toole, President of DGNA.

Paterson is a graduate of the University of Toronto with a degree in Human Resource Management and is a Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP).

About DORMA Group North America
DORMA Group North America manufactures and markets a wide range of products for the architectural openings industry, with a particular focus on commercial and institutional openings. Part of The DORMA Group worldwide, DORMA Group North America comprises DORMA Architectural Hardware, DORMA Glas, Modernfold, DORMA Canada, DORMA Mexico, and DORMA Entrance Systems -- which markets products and services under the DORMA Automatics, Crane Revolving Door and Carolina Door Controls brands.

DORMA Group North America offerings include safety and security products, locks, door closers, exit devices, glass hardware and patch fittings, sliding and swinging automatic doors, revolving doors and operable partitions.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:42 AM | Comments (0)

Greenblock ICF Wall Systems…Meeting the Growing Green Demand in Arizona

Residential and commercial construction industries will benefit from Insulated Concrete Form wall systems.

Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) August 9, 2008 -- Greenblock Worldwide Corporation (www.greenblock.com), a leader and pioneer in the insulated concrete form (ICF) industry, announced that they have begun marketing their ICF products and installation services in Arizona. With their roots in Europe, the company has been promoting the use of their ICFs as an energy saving alternative to stick frame and concrete block construction, for the last forty years.

"Greenblock was Green before Green was cool," says Paul DeNigris, Southwest Territory Manager for Greenblock. "ICF construction is a logical choice for this area with its extreme summer temperatures. Homes and buildings built with ICF wall systems are super energy efficient, clean, quiet and comfortable. And home and building owners can have the satisfaction of knowing they're doing their part to conserve our resources here in Arizona," continued DeNigris.

Insulated concrete forms are a 'stay in place' insulated wall forming system made of three primary components; high R-value expanded polystyrene foam, rigid plastic ties and steel-reinforced poured concrete. The use of ICF's began more than a half century ago and is continuing to gain popularity throughout the construction industry -- especially now because of its Green attributes.

Greenblock's commitment to energy saving, sustainable building practices encompasses both residential and commercial structures. As members of the USGBC and NAHB, Greenblock is dedicated to providing green building solutions to builders and developers who desire to minimize the environmental impact of their projects. According to a recent Mc-Graw Hill Construction research report, "today's corporate leaders are already very conscious of using green practices when considering new facilities, and they expect green building to have an increasing impact on the future."

The bulk of a commercial building's environmental footprint is caused by the energy consumed in the heating and cooling of the structure over its lifetime. The high performance thermal envelope provided by Greenblock ICF construction can offer significant contribution towards reducing the energy consumption needed to control the interior climate of the building. Additionally, the lack of air infiltration and the resistance to moisture through the exterior walls eliminates the growth of mold and pests penetration thus creating a healthy indoor environment that promotes increased employee productivity due to the reduction of sick days.

Projects seeking a green certification from the United States Green Building Council, NAHB or Green Building Initiative, benefit from involving Greenblock ICFs with their project. Greenblock insulated concrete forms are:

Energy Efficient
The expandable polystyrene foam in a Greenblock wall provides a consistent R-24 Thermal Resistance over the life of the product. Coupled with the thermal mass characteristics of concrete, as well as the lack of air infiltration in an ICF wall, the Greenblock system provides a wall comparable to that of an R-50 wood-framed or CMU wall. ICF structures are up to 70% cheaper to heat and 50% cheaper to cool than traditional wood frame or concrete block construction.

Sound Resistant
Structures using Greenblock achieve documented levels of STC (Sound Transmission Classifications) 50 (inaudible) or higher. Wood frame and CMU structures are typically rated an average STC 25, meaning people inside of the structure can hear and understand voices outside the structure. Outside noise such as traffic, airplanes, construction and even lawnmowers and leaf blowers are greatly reduced, making the structure a quiet, peaceful sanctuary.

Strong and Safe
Greenblock structures are much stronger than traditional building methods and materials. They provide exceptional protection from severe forces of nature, such as hurricanes and tornados. Greenblock foundation walls resist cracking and buckling up to five times better than concrete block walls. Greenblock walls are built with steel-reinforced concrete and fire-resisting expanded polystyrene foam, and they have a 2 to 4 hour fire rating depending on which product is used. ICF structures also improve indoor air quality by eliminating the holes and crevices that can trap moisture and foster mold and mildew growth.

Environmentally Friendly
The decision to construct with Greenblock ICFs is an environmentally responsible choice. Buildings constructed with ICFs significantly reduce the negative impact on the environment through sustainable site-planning, energy-efficiency, lower HVAC requirements and improved indoor air quality.(Builders can earn up to 20 LEED points). Greenblock ICFs are non-toxic; using no CFCs, HCFCs or formaldehydes, the absence of "off-gassing" eliminates the possibility of air pollution or ozone depletion.

(Greenblock is the only ICF company to offer in-house ICF wall installation services to make it easy to transition from traditional building methods).

About Greenblock, Inc.
Greenblock's (www.greenblock.com) roots originated in Europe over 30 years ago and moved to the United States and Canada in the late 1980's. With several integral modifications from the time of its inception, today's Greenblock continues to be the superior choice for high efficiency wall systems, noted for outstanding design and ease of use. Over the years, a significant number of structures have been built with Greenblock. Projects that range from stem walls, basements, single and multi-story residences, apartments, condominiums, schools, hospitals, towers and even swimming pools. Government agencies and utility companies are now recognizing the superior features of insulated form-built structures and are beginning to recommend its use for environmental and energy conservation benefits.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:42 AM | Comments (0)

Roofing Contractor Launches New Website For Dallas Metro Area Homeowners

Arrington Roofing, A Dallas Roofing company, today announced the launch of www.ArringtonRoofing.com as an information portal for Dallas area home owners to find information about roofing and roof repair information.

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) August 9, 2008 -- Arrington Roofing today announced the launch of www.ArringtonRoofing.com as an information portal for Dallas area home owners to find information about roofing and roof repair information. With articles being added almost every day and an online monthly newsletter of home remodeling tips the website is anticipated to quickly become the Dallas's primary resource web site for roofing information.

Future plans include educational guides on selecting a roofing contractor, professional advice from expert roofing contractors, and a question and answer forum for Dallas homeowners.

The web site will be an invaluable resource for Dallas area homeowners in finding accessible information to address their home roofing needs. Information will be efficiently categorized for easy navigation.

Chris Arrington, owner of Arrington Roofing stated, "Our goal for the website is to be the best home and family resource guide for assisting all homeowners in the Dallas metro area, with the depth of knowledge and resources www.ArringtonRoofing.com offers is unparalleled."

About Arrington Roofing -- Arrington Roofing is a full-service roofing contractor serving the Dallas/Fort Worth metro area. We offer re-roof, new roof installation and roof repair services to both residential and commercial customers.

Arrington Roofing always uses the highest quality materials and expert craftsmanship for the best roof repair and installation services available. We will consult with you in order to make sure that the style, color and pattern for your roofing system is appropriate for your project specifications. Our mission is to provide you with an effective and comprehensive roofing system that will deliver satisfaction for years to come.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:41 AM | Comments (0)

Greenblock ICF Wall Systems… Building Green in the Pacific Northwest

Insulated Concrete Form wall systems ideal for energy efficient residential and commercial construction.

Portland, OR (PRWEB) August 9, 2008 -- Greenblock Worldwide Corporation (www.greenblock.com), a leader and pioneer in the insulated concrete form (ICF) industry, has announced that they have begun marketing their ICF products and installation services in the Pacific Northwest. With their roots in Europe, the company has been promoting the use of their ICFs as an energy saving alternative to stick frame and concrete block construction for the last forty years.

"Insulated Concrete Forms are a natural building system for this area," says Dan Smith, Portland OR-based Territory Manager for Greenblock. "Folks up here are extremely concerned about the environment and their impact on it. Homes and buildings built with our ICF wall systems are super energy efficient, clean, quiet and comfortable. I'm looking forward to introducing Greenblock as a sustainable alternative to stick frame and concrete block construction."

Insulated concrete forms are a 'stay-in-place' insulated wall forming system made of three primary components; high R-value expanded polystyrene foam, rigid plastic ties and steel-reinforced poured concrete. The use of ICF's began more than a half century ago and is continuing to gain popularity throughout the construction industry - especially now because of its energy efficient, sustainable attributes.

The bulk of a commercial building's environmental footprint is caused by the energy consumed in the heating and cooling of the structure over its lifetime. The high performance thermal envelope provided by Greenblock ICF construction can offer significant contribution towards reducing the energy consumption needed to control the interior climate of the building. Additionally, the lack of air infiltration and the resistance to moisture through the exterior walls eliminates the growth of mold and pests penetration thus creating a healthy indoor environment that promotes increased employee productivity due to the reduction of sick days.

Projects seeking a green certification from the United States Green Building Council, NAHB or Green Building Initiative, benefit from involving Greenblock ICFs with their project. Greenblock insulated concrete forms are:

* Energy Efficient: The expandable polystyrene foam in a Greenblock wall provides a consistent R-24 Thermal Resistance over the life of the product. Coupled with the thermal mass characteristics of concrete, as well as the lack of air infiltration in an ICF wall, the Greenblock system provides a wall comparable to that of an R-50 wood-framed or CMU wall. ICF structures are up to 70% cheaper to heat and 50% cheaper to cool than traditional wood frame or concrete block construction.
* Sound Resistant: Structures using Greenblock achieve documented levels of STC (Sound Transmission Classifications) 50 (inaudible) or higher. Wood frame and CMU structures are typically rated an average STC 25, meaning people inside of the structure can hear and understand voices outside the structure. Outside noise such as traffic, airplanes, construction and even lawnmowers and leaf blowers are greatly reduced, making the structure a quiet, peaceful sanctuary.
* Strong and Safe: Greenblock structures are much stronger than traditional building methods and materials. They provide exceptional protection from severe forces of nature, such as hurricanes and tornados. Greenblock foundation walls resist cracking and buckling up to five times better than concrete block walls. Greenblock walls are built with steel-reinforced concrete and fire-resisting expanded polystyrene foam, and they have a 2 to 4 hour fire rating depending on which product is used. ICF structures also improve indoor air quality by eliminating the holes and crevices that can trap moisture and foster mold and mildew growth.
* Environmentally Friendly: The decision to construct with Greenblock ICFs is an environmentally responsible choice. Buildings constructed with ICFs significantly reduce the negative impact on the environment through sustainable site-planning, energy-efficiency, lower HVAC requirements and improved indoor air quality.(Builders can earn up to 20 LEED points). Greenblock ICFs are non-toxic; using no CFCs, HCFCs or formaldehydes, the absence of "off-gassing" eliminates the possibility of air pollution or ozone depletion.

Greenblock is dedicated to providing green building solutions to builders and developers throughout the Pacific Northwest. On a national level, Greenblock is a member the USGBC and NAHB. On a local/regional level, Greenblock Territory Manager Dan Smith is a member of several Home Builder Associations including Portland, Seattle, Eugene and Bend as well as the Clark County/Vancouver Building Industry Association. He also sits on Green Building Committees in Seattle, Portland and Bend. Greenblock will be exhibiting at the Seattle Builders Show, October 1 and 2, held at the Seattle Convention Center. They will also be featured at the Clark County Parade of Homes in Vancouver running August 22nd through September 7.

About Greenblock, Inc.:
Greenblock's (www.greenblock.com) roots originated in Europe over 30 years ago and moved to the United States and Canada in the late 1980's. With several integral modifications from the time of its inception, today's Greenblock continues to be the superior choice for high efficiency wall systems, noted for outstanding design and ease of use. Over the years, a significant number of structures have been built with Greenblock. Projects that range from stem walls, basements, single and multi-story residences, apartments, condominiums, schools, hospitals, towers and even swimming pools. Government agencies and utility companies are now recognizing the superior features of insulated form-built structures and are beginning to recommend its use for environmental and energy conservation benefits.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:40 AM | Comments (0)

Outdoor Living Rooms: New Articles on Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire Pits Added

New to the Outdoor Living section, The Concrete Network has added articles and photos highlighting outdoor fireplaces and fire pits. View concrete design options, available styles, photos and more.

Yucaipa, CA (PRWEB) August 8, 2008 -- Homeowners are finding more and more ways to entertain outdoors at home by incorporating two of today's popular outdoor amenities--fireplaces and fire pits. These outdoor accessories create an enjoyable atmosphere for outdoor dinning and entertaining year around, and can bring unity between outdoor living areas.

ConcreteNetwork.com now offers everything there is to know about outdoor fireplaces and fire pits with recently added articles and photos online. Articles include tips for choosing the right style, placement, seating considerations and much more.
An outdoor fire feature can bring a rustic charm and warmth to any backyard. From creating an inviting conversation area, to a beautiful backdrop, to outdoor entertaining, an outdoor fireplace or fire pit is a great addition to any outdoor living space.

"Nothing does a better job of anchoring an outdoor living room than an authentic outdoor fireplace" explains Garden Artisan Scott Cohen of The Green Scene in Canoga Park, CA. "Properly designed fire features encourage conversation and sooth the soul." Cohen goes on throughout the articles sharing design and construction guidelines from over 20 years of high-end residential experience.

When choosing a feature for your outdoor space it is important to choose a design that fits in scale with the size of the yard and home. Break up outdoor garden space into "rooms" or "zones" for entertainment and the outdoor "living room" can be used to situate the structure. Consider views, focal points, privacy, screening and prevailing wind when deciding where to set a large permanent structure. Thinking of the feature as the "anchor" of an outdoor room can help with this process. It is important to consider views from inside the home, as well.

Read more about concrete.

Established in 1999, The Concrete Network's purpose is to educate consumers, builders, and contractors on popular decorative techniques and applications. These include stamped concrete, stained concrete floors, concrete countertops, polished concrete, and much more. In 2007 The Concrete Network Website had over 11 million visitors researching decorative concrete.

The site excels at connecting buyers with local contractors in their area through its Find a Concrete Contractor service. The service provides visitors with a list of decorative concrete contractors throughout the U.S. and Canada, and is fully searchable by 23 types of decorative concrete work and 202 regional areas throughout North America.

Photos courtesy of The Green Scene.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:40 AM | Comments (0)

Nansulate® Energy Saving Coatings Used for Government Sponsored Alternative Energy Efficient Housing Project in Western Australia

Industrial Nanotech, Inc. (Pink Sheets:INTK), an emerging global leader in nanotechnology, today announced that the the Company's patented Nansulate® PT thermal insulation and corrosion resistance coating has been incorporated into the first display home of a LandCorp alternative housing project in Seville Grove, Western Australia. The deal was finalized by the Company's Australian distributor, Insulwest.

Naples, FL (PRWEB) August 8, 2008 -- Industrial Nanotech, Inc. (Pink Sheets:INTK), an emerging global leader in nanotechnology, today announced that the the Company's patented Nansulate® PT thermal insulation and corrosion resistance coating has been incorporated into the first display home of a LandCorp alternative housing project in Seville Grove, Western Australia. The deal was finalized by the Company's Australian distributor, Insulwest.

The innovative new home was built by 20*20 Pty. Ltd. within 14 days as part of a Western Australia State Government demonstration housing development. It is among a range of houses built with alternative design and construction techniques, which will be showcased at Revolution Road, due to open to the public in coming months. The Planning and Infrastructure Minister, Alannah MacTiernan, said the State Government was taking creative action to address housing supply and access to the new homes market and Revolution Road would showcase the possibilities for new home buyers.

Industrial Nanotech's patented Nansulate® Translucent PT was applied to internal steel walls clad with Gyprock to provide thermal insulation and benefit the integrity of the total wall assembly. Using new materials, the project offers Australian and international home buyers energy efficient, affordable housing options. The construction company, 20*20 Pty Ltd, has committed to building over 500 of these homes over the next 12 months.

"This project provides an excellent example of how new technologies can help reduce energy use while still providing affordable and sustainable housing," stated Francesca Crolley, V.P. of Operations & Marketing for Industrial Nanotech, Inc. "We are thrilled to have our Nansulate PT thermal insulation and corrosion resistance coating included as an integral part of this alternative housing project. We look forward to the new opportunities for growth in this market as more governments back these types of projects which tie together earth friendly and energy saving needs with new technology solutions in an affordable package for the greatest overall impact."

About Nansulate(R)
Nansulate(R) is the Company's patented product line of specialty coatings containing a nanotechnology based material and which are well-documented to provide the combined performance qualities of thermal insulation, corrosion prevention, and resistance to mold growth in an environmentally safe, water-based, coating formulation. The Nansulate(R) Product Line includes both industrial and residential coatings.
About Industrial Nanotech Inc.
Industrial Nanotech Inc. is quickly emerging as a global nanoscience solutions and research leader. The Company develops and commercializes new and innovative applications for nanotechnology. Additional information about the Company and its products can be found at their websites, (http://www.industrial-nanotech.com) and (http://www.nansulate.com).

Safe Harbor Statement
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This release includes forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the impact of competitive products, the ability to meet customer demand, the ability to manage growth, acquisitions of technology, equipment, or human resources, the effect of economic and business conditions, and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel. The Company is not obligated to revise or update any forward-looking statements in order to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this release.
SOURCE: Industrial Nanotech, Inc.
CONTACT: For Industrial Nanotech Inc., Naples
Investor Relations:
The Cervelle Group, LLC
Rob Karbowsky, 407-475-9966 ext. 227.
rob @ thecervellegroup.com

or
Media Inquiries:
The Cervelle Group, LLC
Tina Kuhn, 407-475-9966
tina @ thecervellegroup.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:39 AM | Comments (0)

Bucket Drumming Makes Big Noise At Construction Industry Trade Shows

The latest guerrilla marketing campaign for Sto Corp, a maker of coatings and paints for the construction industry, features "Ben the Bucket Drummer," a YouTube video submission contest and, of course, Sto paint buckets.

Atlanta (PRWEB) August 8, 2008 -- He wears a white jumpsuit, wields a pair of drumsticks and whales on a yellow bucket like a New Orleans street performer. But Ben Leathers isn't on some boozy, bluesy corner in the French Quarter, playing for loose change. No, this is something different.

This is musical marketing.

A long-haired kid from Lilburn, GA, who's already made a name for himself in the famed indie rock scene of nearby Athens, Ben's latest gig is making a lot of noise at construction industry trade shows across the country. Literally.

Ben is the beatmaker behind a "guerrilla marketing" campaign for Sto Corp, a manufacturer of exterior wall coatings and claddings. And he's drumming up plenty of attention with YouTube videos of his incredible performances, as well as spearheading a contest that invites participants to submit footage of their own "Stomp"-like skills.

But just who is Ben the Bucket Drummer?

Introduced to drumming at a very young age, Ben's first foray into rhythmic expression didn't exactly last very long. In fact, his earliest set of snares met a messy, mangled fate.

"At the age of four," he said, "I got a little drum set that I loved, but ended up dropping down the stairs."

Whoops. When he reached middle school, however, he got a new kit -- one he had to share with his older brother Chad. This one, luckily, remained intact.

"By my 8th grade year," Ben said, "I started taking lessons from a drummer named John LaMattina. I joined the jazz band at our middle school, and was playing in my church's youth band."

Entering high school, the burgeoning beatmaker had to make a big choice, one that would either have him pursuing gridiron glory, or another kind of stardom -- on the sidelines.

"My 9th grade year came," he said, "and it was between football and drum line, so I went with drum line."

Off the field, he hooked up with some neighborhood buddies to form the rock band Verity. And instead of pursuing drum line in college, he opted instead to keep ties with them, "even though we were pretty much all going to different colleges," he said.

"That only lasted through freshman year," he added. "Then we broke up."

But the demise of Verity didn't sour Ben's interest in making music -- not by a long shot. Over the next few years, the ambitious percussionist allied himself with several influential figures in the Athens music scene, and eventually began to become one himself.

Then, the ad men came calling. Ben received word that Billy Mitchell, founder of MLT Creative and the father of one of his high school pals, was seeking a talented drummer to take part in an innovative ad campaign for Sto Corp, using that company's most iconic image -- a signature yellow bucket, often seen at construction sites -- as a musical instrument in a series of viral videos supporting the slogan "For the world's best walls, Sto beats all."

"It was just when I was getting back into playing a lot," Ben said, "so I was excited. I went to Atlanta for a couple of meetings, got some buckets, and made a couple of demo videos. They liked them, so I got the job."

Pretty soon, Ben's talent was taking him to cities like Las Vegas and San Francisco, where his mad musical skills are always the talk of the trade show.

For more information about Ben or the Sto 2008 Bucket Drumming Video Contest, visit http://www.bucketdrummingcontest.com.

About MLT Creative
MLT Creative, located on the east side of Atlanta, GA, was founded in 1980. Its services include positioning, brand development, advertising, and sales promotions for B2B marketers. Its client list includes Sto Corp and Manheim. For more information, visit http://www.mltcreative.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:38 AM | Comments (0)

Drill it, Mill it, Tap it, Thread it… Reid Supply Offers Customization of Standard Industrial Parts

Reid Supply Company's President, John Carrier announced today the purchase of an additional CNC machine at Total Quality Machining, Inc. TQM, Reid's exclusive machining shop for customizing standard Reid stocked parts as well as quality precision tooling components and machining services, boasts customer savings and convenience through customization of standard stocked parts. Reid Supply's offering of customized industrial parts, components and supplies is a key industry differentiator for the 60 year-old company. This and more are featured on their state-of-the-art web site ReidSupply.com, and in print form in their full-line catalog. Call 800-253-0421 or order a catalog at ReidSupply.com.

Muskegon, MI (PRWEB) August 7, 2008 - Reid Supply Company, a Michigan-based global distributor of industrial parts, components and supplies, recently added an additional Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine for their exclusive machine shop to customize standard stocked parts, saving customers time and money. According to Mark Drum, manager of Total Quality Machining, Inc., (TQM) a Reid Entities' company specializing in modification and manufacturing of tooling component items, it can be difficult for customers to locate hard-to-find parts.

"If a customer needs an M-12 by 175 tap through we can take a blank knob and machine it to the correct specifications for the customer," says Drum. "Using the CNC machines is one way that we can customize thousands of stocked parts for our Reid customers and keep their costs down. Drill it, mill it, tap it, thread it, we do a lot of customization."

Before TQM's customization, customers were receiving standard product, sending it out to a job shop, and receiving it back. Now they can simply receive one product directly from Reid. John Carrier, President of Reid Supply stresses the importance of owning a machining company.

"TQM is a major differentiator for Reid Supply and a key advantage for our customers," says Carrier. "We will bend over backwards for customers who need customization, or for any customer who needs our help."

Reid Supply offers customization of thousands of stocked industrial parts through TQM. Working closely with Reid Supply's Rapid Response Team, TQM offers customers a different channel for supplying just the right parts through customization. Drum says that he works very closely with Reid's customer service team to make sure that customization meets or exceeds the customer's needs.

"When the customer service people at Reid Supply let us know when parts are needed we coordinate our efforts to make sure that we do the job right," says Drum. "And because we are part of Reid, their customers are TQM customers. We both have a vested interest to keep customers happy."

Drum says that attention to customer service shows by a lot of repeat business. He says if a customer wants one-here or one-there, or hundreds, TQM is ready to customize. They also provide high quality precision tooling components and machining services using state-of-the-art programmable machining centers and business planning software. Modifications normally take one week, unless it involves ordering special non-stocked parts or CNC set up where they have to squeeze it into the schedule. In that case it can take four to six weeks but they have been known to turn rush parts around the same day or the next day.

"TQM is one of many bonuses for doing business at Reid," says Greg Palmer, Director of Marketing. "ReidSupply.com offers customers access to FREE CAD drawings, Savings Promotions and Resource Guides. E-newsletters with features like e-library access, Ask an Expert Resource, Tools You Can Use, Industry Articles and Fun Facts, plus of course access to all of the products that you need separated into 12 color-coded categories online."

2008 marks the company's 60th anniversary year and Palmer says that Reid has definite growth goals. "We've been around for 60 years and that's no accident. An obvious method to continue our growth is to expand our product offering, but perhaps more importantly is that we continue operating with the same excellent customer service and support as we always have. We want to serve the customer better than anyone in the industry."

Reid's product offering features 12 color-coded categories of everything industrial including:

- Manual Controls
- Clamps and Workholding
- Tooling Components
- Fasteners and Hardware
- Leveling Devices and Vibration Control
- Material Handling
- Bearings and Power Transmission
- Metalworking
- Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO)
- Pneumatics and Hydraulics
- Structural Systems
- Safety Supplies

In addition to the newly designed easy-to-use catalog and other print materials, Reid Supply re-launched their e-commerce web site, ReidSupply.com, with state-of-the-art search and navigation capabilities. The company is the only industrial distribution company that offers over 42,000 free CAD downloads on their web site. The web site also provides monthly sales fliers, free downloadable product information packets called Resource Guides, Reid SupplyLine monthly enewsletters and a new online catalog, which is a digital representation of their printed catalog as an easy online ordering alternative.

"We are serious about taking care of customers by offering them the best choices and industry leading customization of parts," says Carrier. "We believe that our rallying cry, 'While others may be bigger, nobody will serve the customer better' is the key to staying strong and growing in a very competitive marketplace. Try us out."

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:38 AM | Comments (0)

Menemsha Construction Solutions Announces New Team Member

Menemsha Construction Solutions is proud to announce and welcome Gregg Arnold as its new Vice President of Business Development.

(PRWEB) August 7, 2008 -- Menemsha Construction Solutions is proud to announce and welcome Gregg Arnold as its new Vice President of Business Development.

Mr. Arnold will be responsible for developing and growing all three of Menemsha's service groups: Architectural Services, Management and Construction. Mr. Arnold brings over 23 years of experience in client development services. He comes to Menemsha from Parsons, where he served as a Senior Manager of Business Development. While at Parsons, Mr. Arnold was responsible for developing client relations in the Education, Healthcare and Buildings market sectors.

Mr. Arnold holds an MBA from Claremont Graduate University. "We are very pleased to have Mr. Arnold as part of our team," says Mr. John Daigle, CEO of Menemsha. Continues Mr. Daigle, "Mr. Arnold's superior client relations skills and experience will allow Menemsha to better serve our clients."

Mr. Arnold will team with the architectural and construction divisions to provide the leadership and tools necessary to support Menemsha's clients while growing the Menemsha brand.

About Menemsha:

Menemsha Development Group, Inc. is a national management and development construction company. Menemsha specializes in providing complete retail solutions from architectural branding and design through project construction. Menemsha provides services on a regional and national level to Fortune 500 companies in the Banking & Financial Institution, Specialty Retail, Big Box and Food Service arenas. Menemsha's corporate office is located in Los Angeles, CA and they have a regional office located in Boston, MA. Menemsha has employees in over 30 states across the country to service clients at their retail locations.

Menemsha has serviced industry leaders such as Nike, Starbucks Coffee Company, The Home Depot, Limited Brands, Pinkberry, Victoria's Secret, Wachovia, and Lulu Lemon and many more since its inception in 1992. Visit http://www.menemshasolutions.com for more information.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:37 AM | Comments (0)

DuPont Expands SentryGlas® Offerings for Hurricane-Resistant Windows and Doors

DuPont is expanding the range of DuPont™ SentryGlas® interlayers to meet a broader range of needs for protective windows, doors and safety-glazed building elements.

Wilmington, DE (Vocus/PRWEB ) August 7, 2008 -- DuPont is expanding the range of DuPont™ SentryGlas® interlayers to meet a broader range of needs for protective windows, doors and safety-glazed building elements.

The newest SentryGlas® is available in thinner sheets that provide protection while replacing thicker traditional interlayers. The new offerings broaden architects' and builders' choices for incorporating impact-resistant glass for more protective buildings. And, engineers can design stronger, more durable, more protective building elements such as skylights, rails, stairs, doors or storefronts.

“DuPont brings a long history of safeguarding people, property and operations around the world by putting its science to work,” said William F. Weber, vice president and general manager -- DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers. SentryGlas® interlayers are 100 times stiffer and five times tougher than traditional interlayers, delivering strong protection against storm damage, forced entry, accidental injuries and even bomb blasts.”

In addition to supplying protective materials, DuPont has done extensive work in providing counsel to Gulf and Atlantic Coast states on stronger building codes and storm proofing, helping to enact hurricane building codes in Florida in 2007, and Mississippi and Louisiana in 2005 following damage in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Hundreds of glazing systems have been tested and approved to meet tough new codes using SentryGlas®.

DuPont manufactures and markets products for residential and commercial construction that provide high-performance weather and climate protection for buildings and their occupants, as well as sustainable energy management systems. In addition to DuPont™ SentryGlas®, these products include: the DuPont™ StormRoom™ with Kevlar®, DuPont™ Corian® and Zodiaq® solid surfaces, Granite Certified by DuPont™, DuPont™ RoofLiner with Elvaloy®, DuPont™ Tyvek® Weather Barrier Systems including Tyvek® AtticWrap™, the first breathable roofing membrane to create an airtight attic, and Tyvek® ThermaWrap™, which helps reduce energy costs and increase comfort by improving the reflection of radiant energy in wall systems. DuPont also manufactures Tyvek® Weatherization Systems, including DuPont™ Tyvek® CommercialWrap™ and DuPont™ Tyvek® DrainWrap™.

DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.

The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPontÔ, The miracles of scienceÔ, SentryGlas®, StormRoom™, Kevlar®, Corian®, Zodiaq®, Granite Certified by DuPont™, Elvaloy®, Tyvek®, AtticWrap™, ThermaWrap™, CommercialWrap™ and DrainWrap™ are registered trademarks or trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates.

**For a high resolution photo, please click here

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:37 AM | Comments (0)

Franklin International Rebrands Industrial Division as Franklin Adhesives & Polymers to Strengthen its Position for Continued Growth

Franklin International's Industrial Division becomes Franklin Adhesives & Polymers, a growing provider of adhesives for the U.S. and global wood-assembly markets; and pressure sensitive adhesives for office and food products. The rebranding is a springboard for future growth of the division domestically and internationally.

(PRWEB) August 7, 2008 -- Franklin International, a leading name in adhesives and sealants, is rebranding its Industrial Division as Franklin Adhesives & Polymers to provide a springboard for future growth of the division domestically and internationally. In addition to a new name, the rebranding includes a logo and color-coded system to differentiate products for the division's three primary markets.

The company introduces the repackaged Franklin Adhesives & Polymers with a striking new logo that has a progressive look but retains strong ties to the existing Franklin International logo through color and typeface. This serves to underscore adherence to the company's longstanding commitment to high product quality and superior customer service. The contemporary-style logo features a dominant letter "F," for Franklin, with a lower-case "i," representing International while providing a strong identity for the division.

As part of the rebranding effort, the division also has developed a color-coded labeling system for differentiating products by the markets it serves. The color green signifies adhesives for wood assembly, burgundy designates pressure sensitive adhesives and gold denotes Franklin's line of specialty polymers.Ad campaigns, collateral pieces and other branding elements will also employ the color-coded system for identifying products by market.

The rebranding effort is sequel to the appointment of Larry Owen as senior