Industrial News

September 08, 2008

Certified Hurricane Specialists Announces the Introduction of Totally Clear Hurricane Shutters Capable of Withstanding 200MPH Winds

Certified Hurricane Specialists announced today that it has launched a new updated website promoting its totally clear hurricane shutters. Their clear hurricane shutters offer a major departure from current shutter options in that they are optically clear and flat; allowing the homeowner to see through them with a totally unobstructed view.

Tampa Florida (PRWEB) September 5, 2008 -- Certified Hurricane Specialists announced today that it has launched a new updated website promoting its totally clear hurricane shutters. Their clear hurricane shutters offer a major departure from current shutter options in that they are optically clear and flat; allowing the homeowner to see through them with a totally unobstructed view.

"Other clear hurricane shutters are corrugated or rippled and not entirely clear", said Barb Keslinke, President of Certified Hurricane Specialists, "ours are flat and optically clear so that they can barely be recognized as shutters from even the shortest distance. The corrugated types obstruct the homeowners' view of the outside world. Our product eliminates the feeling that the family is in a cave unable to see what's happening outside. There are individuals that feel claustrophobic when a more traditional shutter is installed on the home. There can be significant comfort in being able to see what's happening around your home in a hurricane while being securely protected by clear hurricane shutters. We offer fully installed shutters as well as do it yourself (DIY) hurricane shutter kits so that quality hurricane protection is now available to everyone. Because our hurricane shutters don't alter the look of the home they can be left up all year long or easily removed and stored. Bottom line - this is a 200 mph tested and approved product that will not only protect your home but will also reduce your energy costs and not change the look of your home at all."

Certified Hurricane Specialists and their affiliates have more than 20 years experience in the field of Hurricane Shutter protection, contracting services and general hurricane expertise. All of the CHS hurricane shutters and other hurricane products are tested and certified to the highest standards, Florida Building Code, Miami Dade, International Building Code, NAMI and the Texas State Insurance Commission. CHS offers all types of hurricane shutters including roll down aluminum shutters, bahama shutters, accordion shutters, and 4 different types of screen protection, mesh shutters, garage door protection and totally clear shutters.

Certified Hurricane Specialists offer totally clear hurricane shutters in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. Qualified dealers are encouraged to contact CHS concerning opportunities to represent and install these optically clear hurricane shutters in their respective markets. All CHS hurricane shutters are available for both residential and commercial applications.

For more information about clear hurricane shutters visit http://www.chsone.com.

Contact Phil Plastic
1 800 967-9868

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:46 AM | Comments (0)

Buckingham Group Contracting Wins Acclaimed Safety Award

Successful Construction Contractor, Buckingham Group Contracting is proud to announce it has been awarded an International Safety Award from leading training and advisory body, the British Safety Council.

(PRWEB) September 5, 2008 -- The International Safety Award is given to organisations who demonstrate good safety policies, a commitment to health and safety at the highest level, and also who endeavour to improve the safety culture within their organisation. They must detail their health and safety officers' qualifications and provide information about significant advances they have made in health and safety for the year.

The prestigious award, praised by Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, was recently presented to Buckingham Group at a ceremony and banquet at London's prestigious Grosvenor House Hotel.

Mr Brian Nimick, Chief Executive of the British Safety Council, said: "For more than 50 years, we have led the way in promoting health, safety and environmental best practice in society. In the 21st century, many organisations worldwide are now making health and safety a top priority. Through achieving an International Safety Award, Buckingham Group Contracting Ltd is helping to make our vision of a safe working environment a reality."

Prime Minister Gordon Brown added his support: "I am delighted to send my congratulations to all of those organisations being presented with an award by the British Safety Council. These awards recognise the crucial success that these organisations and their employees have achieved in their pursuit of excellence in the management of health, safety and environmental matters at an international level".

"We are extremely proud to have been recognised for our ongoing commitment to implementing and maintaining robust health and safety management systems which ensure the safety and well-being of our employees, our suppliers and customers, as well as the public", said Adrian Stammers, Company HSEQ Manager for Buckingham Group.

One of the fastest growing Main Contractors in the UK, Buckingham Group have established themselves as leading Land Regeneration, Civils, Construction and Rail Contractors, undertaking significant multi-disciplinary construction projects across a wide range of sectors.

Further information can be found at www.buckinghamgroup.co.uk

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:46 AM | Comments (0)

Buckingham Group Bridges the Grand Union Canal

Named the UKs 20th largest Civils Contractor in New Civil Engineer's '2008 Contractor's File', Buckingham Group Contracting is pleased to record that it has successfully completed the placing of 12 Precast Concrete Bridge beams over the Grand Union Canal at Northampton.

Milton Keynes, UK (PRWEB) September 5, 2008 -- The 19m long beams will form the bridge deck for a new road bridge over the Grand Union Canal at Rothersthorpe located on the A43 at the 15A junction of the M1 motorway, adjacent to the Rothersthorpe Motorway Services. The new bridge is necessitated by the dualling of the single carriageway link road at this busy motorway junction.

Working alongside live road traffic, utilising a 500 tonne Liebherr Crane with 165 tonne counterweight, Buckingham installed the 12 new beams that weighed a maximum of 55 tonnes in a seven hour window at the end of July. The canal remained open to traffic during lifting operations, with boats stopped and controlled by banksmen as each individual beam was placed.

Site Agent Sian Pitchford commented 'With good weather on our side, all went according to plan and we are pleased to have completed the beam lifts early in the day. This enables us to push forward with the road and bridge construction in time for the October Completion date.'

Buckingham's overall Design and Build Contract Value is approximately £3.4m, with a 40 week programme period. The client is ProLogis Developments under a Section 278 Agreement with the Highways Agency. Carillion-URS is supervising the works on behalf of the Highways Agency.

One of the fastest growing Main Contractors in the UK, Buckingham Group have established themselves as leading Land Regeneration, Civils, Construction and Rail Contractors, undertaking significant multi-disciplinary construction projects across a wide range of sectors.

Further information can be found at www.buckinghamgroup.co.uk.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:44 AM | Comments (0)

Greenblock Unveils New Corporate Logo

New Logo Reflects Company's Longevity as well as Ongoing Commitment to Green, Sustainable Construction

Stuart, FL (PRWEB) September 5, 2008 -- Greenblock Worldwide Corporation (www.greenblock.com), a leader and pioneer in the insulated concrete form (ICF) industry, has announced the unveiling of a new corporate logo. "Greenblock has always been a great name for our company, considering the industry that we're in," said Steve Reiter, vice president of marketing for Greenblock. "Our goal for the new logo was two-fold; we wanted a more modern look that further emphasized our green building focus, and we wanted to bring attention to the fact that Greenblock has been in the ICF business for over forty years," continued Reiter.

In fact, Greenblock originated in Europe in 1967 as "Argisol". The original design, created by a Swiss engineer, set the standard for the ICF industry that slowly emerged throughout North America. That original design was not much different than it is today. A conversion from Metric to Imperial measurement, an enhanced product line and a few integral modifications to optimize job site performance, has resulted in an ICF that has an industry reputation for versatility, toughness and ease-of-use.

Structures built with insulated concrete forms are hurricane and tornado resistant, energy efficient, clean, quiet and comfortable. Because of these attributes ICFs are ideal for single and multi family residences, schools, churches, hospitals, theatres, hotels and government buildings.

For more information about Greenblock, please call us at (800) 216-1820 or visit our web site at www.greenblock.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:42 AM | Comments (0)

The Grove, a New Resort-like Housing Option Opens for Troy University Students

The Grove, a recently opened premier student housing community in Troy, AL offers students an amenity-rich option for college living. The apartments are fully furnished, with private bedrooms and private baths, and are leased individually with a set monthly rate that includes cable, internet and a utility allowance. This student housing model, as seen in The Grove, is changing the way students experience college living across the country.

Troy, AL (PRWEB) September 5, 2008 -- The Grove, a recently opened premier student housing community, offers students an amenity-rich option for college living. The apartments are fully furnished, with private bedrooms and private baths, and are leased individually with a set monthly rate that includes cable, internet and a utility allowance.

Eliminating the hassle of collecting rent from roommates and splitting bills, students enjoy a less stressful housing situation, allowing them to focus on their studies and take advantage of the amenities their new home offers, such as a 24-hour on-site gym, library, pool, tanning booths, and clubhouse.

This lifestyle-oriented living experience is strongly supported by the dedicated, student-focused, property management team. The staff at The Grove are trained to create an environment that is a safe, secure and fun place to live. They also coordinate events that help prepare students for a successful life after college, which may include philanthropic events, educational seminars, and other student-driven activities.

The Grove at Troy has 192 units with a total of 514 beds. To date, there are a total of 18 operating Grove locations across the nation and 12 new communities ready to start construction by 2009. Campus Crest, The Grove's parent company, is seeing a growing demand for its product. This student housing model, as seen in The Grove, is changing the way students experience college living across the country.

About The Grove
The Grove, owned and operated by Campus Crest Communities, is an innovative model for college lifestyle residences. The concept and design reflect what studies have shown appeal to the students and the markets in which they live. The combination of furnished rooms, lifestyle amenities, safety, and easy access to campus, makes the choice simple for parents and students alike. Currently there are 18 Groves in nine states with 12 new properties planned to open in 2009. For more information, please visit www.gogrove.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:42 AM | Comments (0)

Thomas Equipment Showcases Thomas Skid Steer Loaders at Canada's Outdoor Farm Show

Canada's Outdoor Farm Show will showcase Thomas Skid Steer Loaders, September 9th to 11th as President & CEO Petter M. Etholm says Thomas has a strong tradition of serving farmers.

Woodstock, Ontario, Canada (PRWEB) September 5, 2008 -- Thomas Equipment Inc. is demonstrating farm use of its full line of Thomas Skid Steer Loaders and attachments at Canada's Outdoor Farm Show, September 9th to 11th at Canada's Outdoor Park in Woodstock.

Petter M. Etholm, President, said, "Thomas, now celebrating its 45th Anniversary since introducing the first Hydrostatic Thomas Skid Steer Loader, was founded by the Thomas brothers, who began the company's great tradition of serving farmers."

Canada's Outdoor Farm Show, celebrating its 15th Anniversary, has nearly 700 exhibitors and total exhibit space of more than two million square feet. A show that brings technology to farmers with first hand demonstrations, its attendees have an estimated annual buying power of $2.3 billion.

Gilbert Bedard, Vice President of Global Sales, said, "The Thomas line of skid steer loaders adds value to farmers' daily use, from the nimble Thomas 85 and Thomas 105 that can turn within a barn stall, to the muscular 153 and high lift 175 and the powerful Thomas 250 that can carry 2,500 pounds with ease."

Arun Bhatnagar, Regional Business Manager, said, "Thomas meets farmers' needs with a complete range of Thomas Skid Steer Loaders, designed to meet the particular needs of any farm. Thomas skid steers move with power and agility to hoist and stack bales, dig trenches, grade ground, clear brush, carrying rocks and sod or clean up. We are proud that Thomas skid steers are often handed down one generation to the next, clearly demonstrating the long-term rugged dependability."

Thomas Skid Steer Loaders and attachments are being displayed at Lot number SM-728, near entrance 9, between the 7th and 8th Lanes South.

Thomas Equipment is online at www.thomasloaders.com, where farmers can learn more about Thomas Skid Steer Loaders.

Thomas Equipment Inc. is a unit of Osiris Corporation (OSRS), www.osiriscorp.net, which provides a variety of branded and other products to industrial markets through subsidiaries including: Thomas Equipment Inc.; Thomas Equipment Asia Co. Ltd.; Thomas Ventures, Inc., Pneutech-Rousseau, Inc. and TcomT Inc. Osiris' units manufacture and market industrial and construction equipment, distribute pneumatic and hydraulic systems and design wireless devices for the telecommunications industry, among other activities.

Safe Harbor Statement
Under the Private Securities Litigation Act of 1995 - This press release discusses forward-looking statements with risks and uncertainties. OSRS results could differ materially due to various factors, including inability to finance operations or expansion and hire or retain personnel, economy and interest rate changes, and events such as terrorism. OSRS believes statements to be reasonable, but neither OSRS nor any other person can represent they will be achieved. OSRS is not obligated to update statements due to new information, events or otherwise. Please see the risk factors associated with our Company and review our SEC filings.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:41 AM | Comments (0)

Motion Announces New Offerings for its Most Rugged Tablet PCs -- Smart Card Reader and EasyConnect USB/Ethernet Module Improve the Usability and Enhance Security Options

Motion Computing®, a leader in mobile computing and wireless communications, today announced the availability of two new options that improve the usability and security of the F5 Tablet PC and C5 Mobile Clinical Assistant (MCA). The new smart card reader enables companies to improve the security of critical data by enhancing authentication processes. Additionally, the EasyConnect USB/Ethernet Module allows for easy connection to other devices or local area networks (LAN), without sacrificing the durability and protection offered by the fully sealed, protective design of the rugged tablet PCs.

Austin, TX (PRWEB) September 5, 2008 -- The optional, integrated smart card reader, manufactured by ITG OMNIKEY® supports both Windows® XP and Vista® operating systems and features an ExpressCard™ interface, a transmission speed of 12 Mbps, and the highest reading performance rate on the market today. Additionally, the EasyConnect USB/Ethernet module is lightweight, easily connects to the devices' docking connector, and features one 2.0 USB port and one 10/100 Ethernet port.

In addition to the new technology options, Motion® is announcing the new F5 Display Protection Plan (DPP). Now, in addition to the F5's industry-leading, three-year, field-ready warranty that covers damage from short drops (approx. 30 inches) and ordinary course exposure to rain and dust, customers can now purchase the DPP additional coverage which allows them to have eligible damaged displays replaced at no charge, including shipping.

"These additions will help our customers continue to improve productivity by equipping mobile workers with tablet PCs that enable them to work no matter where work takes them, whether it be the patient bedside or a construction site," said David Altounian, President and COO of Motion. "Motion continues to develop solutions that improve mobility and complement, not compromise, the rugged design that is critical to professionals that work in harsh or highly mobile environments."

A variety of features make both the C5 and F5 rugged devices able to withstand the harsh environments often associated with highly mobile workforces.

* A lightweight, magnesium alloy internal frame that delivers structural rigidity
* A rubber Elastomer overmold that adds protection against bumps and drops
* Chemical-resistant resin that is easy to clean/disinfect
* A sealed design to help protect from harsh environmental conditions such as exposure to dust and moisture
* Optional Solid State Drive (SSD) for extreme shock and vibration protection
* Shock-mounted display and hard disk drive (HDD) with DataGuard™, an accelerometer that protects data during drops or other events that could damage the hard drive
* A Motion exclusive thermal management system that protects from data loss

Motion is also announcing the Carry Sleeve, a full-cover case designed specifically for the C5 and F5 that provides a shoulder strap, hand strap and easel for an easy hands-free work environment. The Carry Sleeve is the latest addition to Motion's in-the-field productivity peripherals that expand options to more easily transport, charge and utilise the C5 and F5 while away from the office or standard docking station. Also available are the:

* Motion Mobile Dock. Offers the convenience of docking in almost any location, such as a vehicle, wall or cabinet, and features full port replication and charging capabilities
* Motion Flex Carry. An attachable, ergonomic solution that provides alternate methods for carrying the devices throughout the workday - it includes shoulder and hand straps and easily fits into the standard docking station for uninterrupted workflows
* ReadyDock. A multi-tablet storage and charging station from ATS for optimal space management and workflow improvement

The F5, the latest tablet PC from Motion, is a rugged, highly mobile PC that provides electronic clipboard functionality and is the ideal productivity tool for field workers who compute and enter data while standing or walking. Its lightweight, rugged design and integrated features provide onsite, real-time productivity in the harshest environments. Mobile professionals across construction, field sales and service, government and insurance are using the F5 because it provides all of the durability and functionality of a rugged PC without the extra weight and price associated with traditional, fully rugged devices.

"The F5 is the ideal tool for our water conservation teams that spend the majority of their time away from the office and are often required to work outside in unpredictable weather environments," said Ted Calloway, Technology Analyst for Denver Water. "The rugged, fully sealed exterior ensures that the tablet PCs will remain protected despite changing environmental conditions and the lightweight, highly mobile design with convenient tablet input helps our mobile employees be more productive while in the field."

The C5, the industry's first Mobile Clinical Assistant developed in collaboration with Intel®, is a hospital-grade device that is proven in healthcare environments. It's rugged, disinfectable design and integrated features provide improved productivity while supporting the Patient's Rights. In a series of clinician usability studies conducted with leading healthcare organisations, the C5 has proven to improve point of care documentation, enhance clinician satisfaction, reduce transcription error rates, increase clinician productivity and improve clinical documentation accuracy.

The smart card reader and the EasyConnect USB/Ethernet module are available now, and the Carry Sleeve will begin shipping in October.
For more information, visit www.motioncomputing.com.
For a list of reseller partners visit www.motioncomputing.com/buy/index.asp.
For inquiries visit www.motioncomputing.com/about/contact_international.asp.

About Motion Computing
Motion Computing is a mobile computing and wireless communications leader, combining world-class innovation and industry experience so professionals in vertical industries such as healthcare, field sales and service and government can use computing technology in new ways and places. The company's enhanced line of tablet PCs, mobile clinical assistants and accessories are designed to increase productivity for on-the-go users while providing portability, security, power and versatility. Motion combines those products with services and unique vertical market knowledge to deliver robust solutions -- platforms, peripherals, services and wireless -- customised for the needs of a particular industry. For more information, visit www.motioncomputing.com.

Motion Computing and Motion are trademarks or registered trademarks of Motion Computing, Inc, in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

Editor's Contacts

Interviews, photography and further information are available from:

Jens Moeller
Jens Moeller Consulting Ltd.
+44 7811 353 996
info@jmoellerconsulting.com
www.jmoellerconsulting.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:41 AM | Comments (0)

Four Companies Collaborate to Present Virtual Conference on Field Mobility in Construction

AT&T Wireless, Motion Computing, Vela Systems and Reed Construction Data to sponsor four sessions featuring Skanska USA Building, Cianbro and William A. Berry & Son on themes such as green building, BIM, efficiency and safety.

(PRWEB) September 5, 2008 -- Vela Systems, a developer of mobile field software for the AECO (Architecture-Engineering-Contractor-Owner) industry, today announced that along with AT&T Wireless, Motion Computing and Reed Construction Data it will present a four-part Webinar Series on Field Mobility in Construction. Attendees will learn how field software, tablet PCs and wireless connectivity are being used by AECO professionals to deliver significant benefits to the jobsite.

The first online session will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 10 at 1:00 p.m. EDT. Three more sessions will follow on subsequent Wednesdays at the same time.

The four sessions are:

* Sept. 10: Field Mobility as a Key Productivity Tool for Contractors - Measuring Real Results
Frank Converasano, superintendent with Skanska USA Building, will explain how his team has used a new generation of tablet-PCs, field software and wireless mobility on construction at a North Carolina Cancer Hospital. The technology has allowed Skanska to replace paper documents, save significant time, reduce costs, and lower project risk.
* Sept. 17: Green Construction and the Paperless Jobsite
Brian Watson, senior project manager for Cianbro at the DestinyUSA project in Upstate New York, will explain how field mobility has enabled a paperless jobsite on what has become a national model for green construction practices.
* Sept. 24: BIM Beyond Design: Using Building Information Models for Costing, Construction and More
Arol Wolford, president of the Construction Market Data Group at Reed Construction Data, and Josh Kanner, co-founder and vice president of Vela Systems, will detail how construction organizations have tied field data to BIM to extend it beyond design to include estimating, materials tracking and cost management.
* Oct. 1: Field Mobility and Safety Tracking - Measuring and Managing Safety

Peter Campot, CEO of William A. Berry & Son, will discuss how his firm has used field software, tablet PCs and connectivity to drive consistent measurement, verification and reporting of their award-winning safety program.

"The AECO industry is in the midst of a technological revolution that is transforming work in the field," said Tim Curran, CEO of Vela Systems. "Through the cooperative efforts of AT&T, Motion Computing and Vela Systems, the leaders presenting in these virtual conferences have been able to speed project delivery, improve safety, save money and heighten quality."

To register for any of these events, please visit http://www.velasystems.com/redir/virtualconf1

About Vela Systems
Vela Systems is The Leader in Field Software for the AECO Industry™. Vela Systems software streamlines and accelerates all field processes in construction and capital projects. By replacing their field notebooks with Vela software and Tablet PCs, Vela's customers save 5-10 hours per week per user, accelerate project delivery by two days per month, capture the true Cost of Quality™ and reduce litigation risk through standardized documentation. Vela's suite of modules includes field reports, safety inspections, work lists, punch lists, schedule updates and many other critical field activities. Industry leading architects, engineers, contractors and owners agree that Vela Systems helps them Work Faster, Collaborate Easier, and Finish Sooner™. To see how Vela's customers are improving construction delivery from Las Vegas to Dubai, please visit www.velasystems.com or call 888.VELA.SYS.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:41 AM | Comments (0)

The Grove, A New Resort-like Student Housing Option Opens in Cheney for Eastern Washington University Students

The Grove, a premier student housing community opening in mid-September, offers students an amenity-rich option for college living. The apartments are fully furnished, with private bedrooms and private baths, and are leased individually with a set monthly rate that includes cable, internet and a utility allowance. This student housing model, as seen in The Grove, is changing the way students experience college living across the country.

Cheney, WA (PRWEB) September 5, 2008 -- The Grove, a premier student housing community opening in mid-September, offers students an amenity-rich option for college living. The apartments are fully furnished, with private bedrooms and private baths, and are leased individually with a set monthly rate that includes cable, internet and a utility allowance.

Eliminating the hassle of collecting rent from roommates and splitting bills, students enjoy a less stressful housing situation, allowing them to focus on their studies and take advantage of the amenities their new home offers, such as a 24-hour on-site gym, library, pool, tanning booths, and clubhouse.

This lifestyle-oriented living experience is strongly supported by the dedicated, student-focused, property management team. The staff at The Grove are trained to create an environment that is a safe, secure and fun place to live. They also coordinate events that help prepare students for a successful life after college, which may include philanthropic events, educational seminars, and other student-driven activities.

The Grove at Cheney has 192 units with a total of 512 beds. To date, there are a total of 18 operating Grove locations across the nation and 12 new communities ready to start construction by 2009. Campus Crest, The Grove's parent company, is seeing a growing demand for its product. This student housing model, as seen in The Grove, is changing the way students experience college living across the country.

About The Grove
The Grove, owned and operated by Campus Crest Communities, is an innovative model for college lifestyle residences. The concept and design reflect what studies have shown appeal to the students and the markets in which they live. The combination of furnished rooms, lifestyle amenities, safety, and easy access to campus, makes the choice simple for parents and students alike. Currently there are 18 Groves in nine states with 12 new properties planned to open in 2009. For more information, please visit www.gogrove.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 02:41 AM | Comments (0)

September 04, 2008

Lamp Included Option Now Available With Prescolite's Architektur and Liteframe Families

Allows "one stop shopping" benefits

Greenville, S.C. (Vocus/PRWEB ) September 4, 2008 -- Prescolite is excited to announce that CFL lamps are now an option on new pricing sheets for Architektur and LiteFrame products. By streamlining this process, it is easier than ever for distributors and designers to specify lamps for a variety of architectural environments.

The lamp included option ensures compatible lamps with shipping and offers convenient "one stop shopping." Additionally, the lighting designer can be confident that the color temperature and wattage are appropriate for the project.

Prescolite, a division of Hubbell Lighting, is a major manufacturer of high performance down lighting, track lighting, and surface lighting serving commercial, industrial and residential markets. Literature, specifications and pricing information is available from Prescolite, 701 Millennium Drive, Greenville, S.C. 29607. Telephone: (864) 678-1121. Fax: (864) 678-1141. Visit Prescolite online at www.prescolite.com.

Media Contact:
Kim Banks
Prescolite
864.678.1121 (direct line)
704.953.9303 (cell phone)
kim@simkocomm.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:46 AM | Comments (0)

ConcretePoolDecks.org: New Website Outlines the Many Advantages of Concrete Decks

New website, ConcretePoolDecks.org provides all-inclusive information on pool decks to help consumers get most out of their investment. The site covers design ideas, popular concrete deck surfaces, layout considerations, concrete benefits and includes numerous photos.

Yucaipa, CA (PRWEB) September 4, 2008 -- Recently launched, ConcretePoolDecks.org is a comprehensive website that has been designed to inform consumers on the many advantages associated with concrete pool decks and their decorative concrete options. Covering topics from popular surfaces and location tips, to design ideas and an extensive gallery of deck photos, the site's goal is to provide specific and detailed information for today's homeowner.

According to statistics from the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals, homeowners actually spend more time on their pool decks than in the pool itself. For this reason, ConcretePoolDecks.org was developed, to show that properly designed pool decks can offer many different uses.

Installing a new pool or planning to resurface an existing pool? This site educates consumers on the proper design considerations for creating a functional pool deck. It includes five common design mistakes to avoid, six ways to enhance a deck, available design options with concrete, a photo gallery offering design ideas and more.

Highlighting concrete as the material of choice, the site also focuses on popular concrete deck surfaces and the decorative applications available, like stamping, stenciling and coloring options. Concrete offers a whole host of benefits; the site covers four unique reasons why concrete can fit into any lifestyle.

ConcretePoolDecks.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 decks, choose photos of designs they like, and then access the directory for contact information for concrete pool deck contractors in their local area.

Photos courtesy of Concrete Impressions LLC.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:45 AM | Comments (0)

Incorporation Services Leader, BizFilings, Encourages Entrepreneurs to Gain the Benefits of Starting a Business Now

More than 80% percent of small business owners remain optimistic regarding economy, according to a recent survey.

Madison, WI (PRWEB) September 4, 2008 -- BizFilings, the leader in helping entrepreneurs incorporate a business, is encouraging entrepreneurs to take charge of their future and start a small business today, citing no reason to wait for a market upturn.

Starting a business in a down economy can lend a competitive advantage with multiple benefits such as the ability to:

* attract better talent,
* negotiate competitive pricing from key vendors, and
* break through the clutter that exists in faster economic times

While negative economic conditions always seem to find headlines, many of the troubles affecting large corporations aren't affecting most small business owners. The Business Owner's Toolkit, sponsored by BizFilings, an online resource for business owners, recently conducted a survey of more than 1,300 small business owners and found that 83 percent remain optimistic and anticipate expanding their business over the next 12 months.

Roughly 85 percent of small businesses surveyed have not experienced decreases in demand for their products or services. In fact, most small business owners, 70 percent, said they anticipate the demand for their products to increase over the next six months. Only 5 percent expect demand for their products to decrease during the same time period.

"I think of Eric Ryan, founder of Method, when I see the positive results of our small business survey," said Troy Janisch, Publisher of the Business Owners Toolkit. "He recently was quoted as saying in an Inc. article that starting a business in a recession is like vacationing in the off-season. It's a little less crowded, and everything starts going on sale."

Method is now a leading provider of eco-friendly household products to national retailers like Target, despite getting its start in 2001 after the dot com crash.

Reminded by the Chinese proverb that insists the best time to plant a tree is always 20 years ago and the second best time is right now, BizFilings is providing need-to-know information about how to start a business on its blog Time to Start Up.

If you see yourself as successful business owner 2 or 20 years from now, plant the seed today with BizFilings incorporation services. Successful entrepreneurs view every moment as an opportunity and every day they stop moving forward is an opportunity lost.

About BizFilings:
BizFilings (www.bizfilings.com) is the Internet leader in providing incorporation and related services to business owners. Bizfilings professionally forms corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and nonprofits faster than anyone else. Its rush service makes it possible to file a corporation or LLC in as little as 24 hours.

BizFilings is a part of Wolters Kluwer, a leading multinational publisher and information services company. Wolters Kluwer has annual revenues (2007) of €3.4 billion, maintains operations in over 33 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific and employs approximately 19,500 people worldwide.

About Business Owner's Toolkit:
Business Owner's Toolkit provides total know-how for small business. The Toolkit website helps business owners start, run, and grow a successful small business by providing more than 5,000 pages of free step-by-step advice, instruction, and ready-to-use business templates. The site also offers free business webinars, business news and one-to-one advice to business owners by email. The Business Owner's Toolkit also partners with StartupNation to provide free entrepreneurial advice via a national syndicated radio show.

The Business Owner's Toolkit is a part of Wolters Kluwer, a leading multinational publisher and information services company. Wolters Kluwer has annual revenues (2007) of €3.4 billion, maintains operations in over 33 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific and employs approximately 19,500 people worldwide.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:45 AM | Comments (0)

Hy-TechRoofDrains.com Offers Convenient, Simple Way to Shop for Roof Drains Online

Hy-TechRoofDrains.com has revolutionized the commercial roofing industry by offering a convenient, simple way to shop online for roof drains and replacement parts from today's top manufacturers, including Zurn, Josam, Smith and Wade.

Cleveland, Ohio (PRWEB) September 4, 2008 -- Since its launch in 2004, Hy-TechRoofDrains.com has revolutionized the commercial roofing industry by offering a convenient, simple way to shop online for roof drains and replacement parts from today's top manufacturers, including Zurn, Josam, Smith and Wade.

Utilizing the site's new layout and added features, visitors can easily locate and purchase roof drains and replacement directly online within minutes. The site allows users to search for products by manufacturer, browse through Hy-Tech's inventory by product category, or ask the Drain Wizard.

The Drain Wizard is a proprietary application that helps users find a specific roof drain or part, even if they do not know the manufacturer or the specific model name. The Wizard guides visitors through a series of questions about the part and then locates the exact roof drain needed, no matter how old or unique.

The site is also home to the Roof Drain Experts. Visitors with questions or in need of advice can call or email the Roof Drain Experts on any industry-related topic, and receive a response within 24 hours.

"Customer service has always been a cornerstone of our business and the key to our success," said Ken Paine, president of Hy-Tech Products. "As more of our customers look to the Web to find the information and products they need, we are continuously evolving our Websites to makes sure they provide an excellent resource and help to save roofers time and money."

About Hy-Tech Products
Hy-Tech is widely recognized as the Midwest's premier supplier of commercial roofing equipment, such as heat welding, hoisting, single ply and roofing safety, as well as drains and replacement parts, and roofing hand tools. The company continuously provides innovative, new and refurbished products from the industry's top brands to commercial roofers, while delivering maximum value with the combination of quality products and unmatched service.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:44 AM | Comments (0)

New eCommerce Website Offers Eco-Friendly Products: workingwonders Makes it Easy to Adopt a Green Lifestyle

workingwonders, llc (www.workingwondersUS.com) offers a one-stop source where design-build professionals and consumers alike can quickly and easily find aesthetically pleasing eco-responsible products, knowledge and services to build out, furnish and accessorize green projects, homes and workplaces. From non-toxic paints and air-filtering systems, to bio-fuel powered fireplaces and fully installed kitchens, the eco-friendly products turn living and working environments into spaces that improve the health and well-being of families, coworkers and the planet as a whole.

Mt. Washington, MD (PRWEB) September 4, 2008 -- workingwonders, llc is proud to announce today that it has launched its new ecommerce website intended to make it easy for design-build professionals and consumers alike to build-out, furnish and accessorize living and working spaces with green products.

workingwondersUS.com features products made from materials such as organic textiles, sustainable woods, and recycled metals and glass that help customers live in ways that create health and well-being for themselves, their families and the planet as a whole. workingwonders' Founder and CEO, BethAnn Lederer, said, "The website offers a one-stop source for people looking for aesthetically pleasing eco-friendly solutions that will improve their environments--at home, at school, at work and at play."

In addition to finding a broad array of green products, website visitors also will find information and resources to increase their control over the health of their environments. For example, workingwonders researched and developed its comprehensive green guideTM, based on the company's eight goals for greening. Eight corresponding icons help visitors quickly and easily identify the green attributes of each product and judge for themselves whether a product offers the green values that mean the most to them.

Lederer said, "workingwonders' philosophy evolved out of two things: my extensive healthcare experience, in which I saw firsthand how a better environment improves physical, social, cognitive, motivational, and emotional health, and the fact that I had a difficult time finding green products for my own home and office."

"Much of the environmental information available, especially on the Internet, is fragmented, confusing, buried, or only available for a fee," explained Lederer. "I realized there was a need to create a 'one-stop shop' for products without the physical, chemical and biological pollutants that often lead to chronic health complaints, along with the support necessary to make adopting a green lifestyle easy."

workingwonders developed its eco-standards and selected its product offerings starting with indoor air quality, one of today's primary health concerns. At the same time, the company incorporated its belief that being eco-conscious doesn't have to mean choosing environment over aesthetics. "The two can, and should, go hand-in-hand," said Lederer.

"We believe that design and style are vital to our well-being and quality of life," said Lederer. "Our talented team works with designers, builders, architects and consumers to help them create modern, clean spaces that are environmentally-friendly and clutter-free. The website is living proof that it is possible to be environmentally responsible and still enjoy nurturing clean spaces filled with stylish design, texture, natural materials, and pure, clean air."

For more information, visit www.workingwondersUS.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:44 AM | Comments (0)

MetoKote Corporation, Leader in the Metal Finishing Industry, Announces New Strategic Account Manager Representing Their Deere and Company Business

MetoKote Corporation, Inc. is pleased to announce the recent addition of Roger Cook as Strategic Account Manager representing their Deere and Company Business.

Lima, OH (PRWEB) September 4, 2008 -- MetoKote Corporation, Inc., the industry leader in metal finishing processes, including electrocoating (e-coat), powder coating and liquid paint, is pleased to announce the recent addition of Roger Cook as Strategic Account Manager representing MetoKote's Deere and Company Business. Roger will be based in Lansing, Michigan.

Mr. Cook earned his BSME in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan.

Prior to joining MetoKote, Mr. Cook spent 9 years in an Account Manager role with Lord Corporation located in Lansing, Michigan. One of his key responsibilities with Lord was management of the company's Deere business with regards to vibration isolation products. Throughout his career, he has worked with Caterpillar as an Analysis Engineer and at General Motors as a Product Engineer.

MetoKote Corporation, headquartered in Lima, Ohio, serves over 1,000 customers in 40 facilities 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 05:43 AM | Comments (0)

Layton Truck Expands Snow Removal Offering

Layton Truck Equipment, a member of the Auto Truck Group, becomes distributor of Pro-Tech Sno Pushers.

Colorado Springs, CO (PRWEB) September 4, 2008 -- Layton Truck Equipment is now the distributor of Pro-Tech Sno Pushers for Colorado. "We're really excited about this line. The Sno Pusher fits in really well with our other product lines", said Kurt Unrein, Layton Truck Inside Sales Manager.

Pro-Tech is the industry leader in commercial sized containment plows. Sno Pusher models fit on all sizes of loaders, backhoes, skidsteers, tractors, forklifts and telehandlers and come in 48", 36" or 28" heights and sides. All Sno Pushers come standard with either a rubber cutting edge, steel trip edge or both.

A Sno Pusher can expand snow removal volume by as much as 500% over conventional blades or buckets. Conventional snow plowing either moves the snow to the left or the right (still on the property). The Sno Pusher will take several yards of snow, that are contained in front of the plow, and move it off the property. When using just a bucket, the capacity of the bucket becomes the limiting factor. Bucket capacities range in general from 1yd. to 4yd. Sno Pushers push 5yds to 38yds of snow (depending on equipment horsepower and weight) in one push.

Layton Truck Equipment, member of the Auto Truck Group, which has been Making Trucks into Tools since 1918. They offer extensive experience, knowledge, excellent service, competitive prices, and tremendous value to their customers. Auto Truck Group's five locations provide convenient access for up-fitting in the work truck industry. For more information please visit, www.laytontruck.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:42 AM | Comments (0)

Hurricane Gustav Disaster Relief Effort

BigSlider™ utility mover announces a discount for the month of September to help clean up the impact of Hurricane Gustav for persons living in Louisiana and Mississippi.

Houston, TX (PRWEB) September 4, 2008 -- BigSlider™ utility mover announced today a price reduction for anyone living in Mississippi or Louisiana and for those working on the hurricane clean up, relief and recovery efforts in the aftermath of hurricane Gustav. Look for www.bigslider.com/articles/hurricane-disaster-relief.html.

"We want to help people easily move heavy debris from streets and yards so the clean up effort will go as quickly as possible. We live on the Texas Gulf Coast and know how much everyone wants to get back to their own homes," said Jeri Masterson, owner. If you have a mailing address in Mississippi or Louisiana, you'll receive a $20 discount on the Professional model any time during September. Relief agencies dealing with Hurricane Gustav disaster relief and recovery efforts will receive further discounts.

BigSlider™ is ideal for moving up to 30 cu ft such as six 39-gal trash bags, heavy boxes and furniture, or moving heavy limbs and logs outdoors. Here's a story from one man who cleaned up his hurricane debris:

"We had trees downed in hurricane Rita that we'd cut up in fire wood length, and they were laying in a boggy area. I'd started carrying the 5- to 100-pound logs uphill to the trailer by hand for about 30 minutes, and my wife reminded me to use BigSlider™.

My productivity went up at least by a factor of four or more. I would dig the logs out of the mud roll them on BigSlider™, and my wife would pull them up to the trailer for me to load later.

BigSlider™ worked great in the mud and rough slope where we couldn't use a wheelbarrow or place the trailer any closer. We effectively loaded an 8 x 16 foot trailer with approximately 3 tons of fire wood…A big thanks to BigSlider™." -- SDS, Texas

BigSlider™ is a huge 2 ft by 5 ft sheet of tough, slick plastic with a big comfortable handle. It's only one-sixteenth inch thick, so you only have to tilt, roll, walk or slide your item 1/16 inch to get it started. BigSlider™ can move up to 500 lbs on concrete, and it also works great grass, sand, mud, or carpet and tile. "There are no wheels, so it can't get stuck in the mud." said Masterson.

When you're done, BigSlider™ doesn't take up storage space. "Just put it in your trunk, behind a shelf, or under the couch. It's a 3 lb tool that stores anywhere," said Masterson.

Go to the website at http://www.bigslider.com/articles/hurricane-disaster-relief.html for more information or to get your BigSlider™ at this great discount.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:42 AM | Comments (0)

Creator of World's Greenest Remodeled Home and Franchise Entrepreneurs Launch First Green Building Franchise

Creators of the World's First Remodel LEED for Homes® Platinum Certified house have launched the worlds first Green Building Franchise, Live Green Live Smart Builders® nationwide.

(PRWEB) September 4, 2008 -- The Live Green, Live Smart Builders® franchise is a concept that was born from Live Green, Live Smart Builders® President & CEO Peter Lytle's passion for sustainability and the environment and has a goal is to build 50,000 Green demonstration homes. By spending the last three years conducting primary research through the remodeling of The Sustainable House®, Lytle along with Franchise Development Group (www.fdgpartners.com) business partner Joe Keeley (Founder and President of franchise success story College Nannies & Tutors®), created the Live Green, Live Smart Builders® franchise as a way to leverage their knowledge and resources in the franchise industry as well as green construction and remodeling. "I have always had a passion for the environment and for high growth segments in business. The green movement is the biggest thing I have seen since the internet and it is not a moment too soon" says Lytle.

The Live Green, Live Smart Builders franchise has an initial franchise fee of $27,500 where franchisees receive an extensive training on green building, business, brand name, marketing materials, research and ongoing support of the network. Franchises are currently being offered on both coasts and in the Midwest. More information can be found at www.livegreenlivesmartbuilders.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:41 AM | Comments (0)

Donaldson® Torit® Introduces Smaller & Smarter Technology for Baghouse Dust Collection

New Torit PowerCore® dust collectors with PowerCore filter packs are the first major baghouse innovation in decades.

Minneapolis, MN (PRWEB) September 3, 2008 -- Donaldson Torit solves a growing need for better filtration, reduced operational cost, and greater flexibility in baghouse dust collection with the launch of its Torit PowerCore dust collectors with PowerCore filter packs. An extension of Donaldson Company's patented PowerCore technology, well-proven in engine filtration, Torit PowerCore dust collectors are smaller and smarter than traditional baghouse technologies.

Field tested with extraordinary results in major wood, grain, cement, and plastics manufacturing operations for more than a year, full-scale Torit PowerCore collectors are now available in stand-alone and bin vent configurations. Stand-alone Torit PowerCore dust collectors are up to 50 percent smaller than traditional baghouses; bin vent models are up to 70 percent smaller than traditional technology.

"Torit PowerCore is the technical advancement that manufacturers with large and under-performing baghouse dust collectors have been waiting for," said Kristine Graham, Torit PowerCore product manager. "Through testing with our beta partners, Torit PowerCore has proven itself as a truly innovative technology that filters dust better, saves space, allows point-of-use filtration, offers easy maintenance, and addresses cost concerns."

Smaller is Smarter

PowerCore media technology is integral to the dramatic downsizing of the Torit PowerCore collector. Just seven inches tall, one PowerCore filter pack replaces six traditional eight-foot long fabric filter bags. Instead of hours or days to remove cumbersome and dirty traditional filter bags, PowerCore filter packs are removed from the clean side of the collector with one hand in minutes without using tools.

PowerCore filter packs deliver better dust filtration by combining Donaldson Torit's proven and patented Ultra-Web® surface-loading technology with a fluted-media design that allows more media in a small volume. PowerCore filter packs capture both large and small dust particles. Independent lab tests, using EPA PM 2.5 standards, show that PowerCore filter packs with Ultra-Web provide up to 78 percent fewer emissions than traditional bags - translating to cleaner plant air and greater product recovery.

The rugged fluted structure of the PowerCore filter pack extends filter life and eliminates bridging problems common for manufacturers using traditional baghouse technology on wood, fiber glass, plastic and other stringy and agglomerative materials. Unlike traditional filter bags that move when they are pulse cleaned or shaken, accelerating bag fatigue and wear, the PowerCore filter packs are stationary, which prolongs filter life. Torit PowerCore also departs from the traditional baghouse airflow pattern that directs the incoming dirty air between the long hanging filter bags, which often leads to bridging on lightweight and/or fibrous materials. Torit PowerCore is engineered to direct the dirty air straight into the bottom of the PowerCore filter pack, thereby eliminating bridging.

Smaller and Smarter = Savings

Smaller, smarter collectors and filters add up to significant savings. Less steel and oil is required to manufacture and transport collectors that are 50-70 percent smaller than traditional baghouses. With filters that don't succumb to bridging and continue to filter longer with high efficiency and minimal servicing, the cost of owning and maintaining the Torit PowerCore collectors with PowerCore filter packs provide long-term value for manufacturers.

In addition, smaller sized Torit PowerCore collectors allow new applications at the point of use and can eliminate the need for complicated duct work or a large, energy-consuming central dust collector. With greater flexibility, manufacturers can now maximize space on the plant floor while containing costs.

For more information, visit the new website: Donaldson.com/ToritPowerCore. The site features technical information, case studies with beta partners, a brochure and a technical forum to submit questions to Donaldson Torit.

About Donaldson Company, Inc.:
Donaldson Torit is the brand name under which Donaldson's industrial filtration products are sold. Donaldson Company, Inc. is a leading worldwide provider of air and liquid filtration systems and replacement parts that improve people's lives, enhance our Customers' equipment performance, and protect our environment. We are a technology-driven company committed to satisfying our Customers' needs for diesel engine equipment and industrial filtration solutions through innovative research and development, superior technology, and global presence. Our almost 13,000 employees contribute to the company's success by supporting our Customers at more than 100 sales, manufacturing, and distribution locations around the world. Donaldson is a member of the S&P MidCap 400 and Russell 1000 indices, and our shares trade on the NYSE under the symbol DCI. Additional information is available at www.donaldson.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:41 AM | Comments (0)

Functional Products & Remodeling Trends Will Spur Growth in Home Furnishings, According to a New Report by Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

Innovative ideas, lifestyle trends, remodeling, discretionary income and ongoing cycle of home maintenance will offer a solid base for continued demand of home furnishings amid a slower housing construction industry. Increase in number of households influenced the demand for myriad home furnishings products, while television programs and magazines have rekindle interest in home decorating.

San Jose, CA (PRWEB) September 3, 2008 -- Heightened interest of homeowners towards quality, comfort and decorative products is key to growth in demand for home furnishings. Noteworthy factors influencing the home furnishing industry include changes in economy, lifestyle trends, discretionary income, increase in new residential and non-residential construction and robust growth in home renovations. Remodeling activity will continue to fuel home furnishings market, driven in part by the popularity of home makeover shows. Changing trends in home decor and roll out of decor-oriented products such as designer wall coverings, architectural paints, accent furniture and lighting will promote sales lifts. In addition, consumer lifestyle trends such as 'cocooning' and 'outdoor living' will support gains as homeowners continue to trade up to improved products.

Ceramic tiles market is hugely dependent on the trends in construction industry. Considerable demand of ceramic tiles in kitchen and bath remodeling sectors had been offset by slowdown in sectors such as retail, single-family residential and hotels. The ceramic tiles market is also being helped by home buying trends that are directly translating into sales for premium wall and floor ceramic tiles.

Fuelled by continuous rise in consumer preferences towards ceramic tile, hardwood, and laminate flooring, demand for area rugs is continuously increasing. Furthermore, availability of rugs in various colors and patterns, increased demand for area rugs, especially in homes decorated in neutral tones. Of late, demand for rugs containing new adventurous and traditional patterns, abstract and geometric designs in dusky background, and whimsical patterns, is steadily increasing. In the capital-intensive and matured market scenario for rugs and carpets, consolidation paves way to increment the market share. Backward Integration is another key factor for cost savings.

Three major channels - electronic media including Television and Internet, magazines, and store displays are important in influencing the product choices of consumers. Retailers are increasingly targeting female customers as they represent the major demographic segment for home improvement products. Manufacturers operating in the DIY segment are also coming up with power tools that are small and light, targeting women.

The report titled "Home Furnishings: A Global Outlook" provides a collection of statistical anecdotes, market briefs, and concise summaries of research findings. The report offers a bird's eye view of the home furnishing industry, the fundamentals underlying the industry's behavior, and actionable insights into select categories of home improvement products i.e. Ceramic Tiles, Architectural Coatings, Rugs and Carpets, and Wall Coverings, among others. Annotated with 39 information rich tables, the US market is extensively investigated with discussion in this section elaborated with data tables which capture retailing statistics, consumer spending, product sales in each identified segment, sales of leading retailers, and advertising spending/trends, among others parameters. Other markets briefly abstracted to offer the reader a prelude to regional level dynamics include Canada, Japan, Europe, France, Germany, and Italy, among others. Also included is an indexed, easy-to-refer, fact-finder directory listing the addresses, and contact details of 957 companies worldwide.

For more details about this research report, please visit http://www.strategyr.com/Home_Furnishings_Industry_Market_Report.asp

About Global Industry Analysts, Inc.:
Global Industry Analysts, Inc., (GIA) is a reputed publisher of off-the-shelf market research. Founded in 1987, the company is globally recognized as one of the world's largest market research publishers. The company employs more than 700 people worldwide and publishes more than 880 full-scale research reports each year. Additionally, the company also offers a range of more than 60,000 smaller research products including company reports, market trend reports and industry reports encompassing all major industries worldwide.

Global Industry Analysts, Inc.
Telephone 408-528-9966
Fax 408-528-9977
Email press @ StrategyR.com
Web Site www.StrategyR.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:38 AM | Comments (0)

All-Spec Announces Huge Cooper Tools Blowout Sale

While supplies last, All-Spec Industries is selling brand name, quality hand tools such as wrenches, pliers and hammers at drastically reduced prices.

Wilmington, NC (PRWEB) September 3, 2008 -- All-Spec Industries, a leading online distributor for tools, static control products, test and measurement equipment and more is pleased to announce select Cooper Tools hand tools priced at least 40% below the manufacturer's list price.

Many of Cooper's popular hand tools are included in the Cooper Tools tool sale. The durable Crescent RapidSlide adjustable wrench set includes a 6" wrench and a 10" wrench; this set is listed at over $34 but on sale for $17.40. Crescent's tongue and groove pliers set is priced at $12.41 and Plumb hammers are less than $9. Other items included in the sale are both left and right cutting Wiss snips, Lufkin tape measure, H.K. Porter cable cutter and a Nicholson hacksaw blade set that fits most hacksaws.

Large volumes of these tools by brands such as Crescent, Lufkin, Wiss and Plumb have been brought in. Stock up and save while supplies last; the low prices will disappear when the tools sell out.

For more information on the Cooper Tools blowout sale contact Customer Service or visit www.all-spec.com.

Established in 1988, All-Spec Industries carries ESD materials, electronic manufacturing tools, soldering stations and irons, and telecom, field service, and test & measurement equipment. All-Spec Industries normally ships 97% of all in-house stock orders received each day. In some cases, the product will ship directly from the manufacturer or one of our other off-site warehouses.

Contact:
Customer Service
All-Spec Industries
1-800-537-0351
www.all-spec.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:38 AM | Comments (0)

InvitingHome.com Launches Decor Blog to Inspire Homeowners

The new InvitingHome.com Blog offers countless home decor ideas and opinions designed to help homeowners unleash their creativity.

Waltham, MA (PRWEB) September 3, 2008 -- InvitingHome.com -- the authority on home decor and architectural products -- has debuted its Home Decor Blog.

The InvitingHome.com Blog provides useful guidance on choosing everything from wood corbels to beautiful crown moldings. Designer-written blog entries are complemented by comments posted by visitors to the site.

"One of our primary goals at InvitingHome.com is to educate consumers on the various possibilities for making their home more beautiful," said interior designer Julia Delaney. "Our blog allows homeowners to learn more about home decoration and even to gain valuable insight from fellow homeowners."

In addition to wood corbels and crown moldings, the InvitingHome.com Blog has sections on the kitchen, home decor, lighting, ceiling decor and green design. The latest entries cover interesting topics such as adding the right finishing touches to the kitchen, the role of lighting fixtures in home design and the lack of regard shown for ceiling design.

Blog entries are being added all the time, and site visitors are encouraged to weigh in with their views and accounts of past experiences.

"We believe everyone has their creative side and fantasies that they have not tapped in to," added Delaney. "We're here to give you everything you need to unleash that creativity. After you finish your room, you should feel that it reflects your personality and your ideas -- and that you got exactly what you need and want. There's no need for you to settle."

For more information on wood corbels, crown moldings and other home furnishings and architectural products, please go to www.InvitingHome.com. You may also visit the new Inviting Home showroom at 318 Bear Hill Rd., Ste. 7 in Waltham, Mass.

About InvitingHome.com

InvitingHome.com is committed to providing exquisitely designed, handcrafted home furnishings and architectural products along with unique decorative elements, all manufactured to the highest quality standards. Their extensive selection of architectural accents and home improvement additions allow interior designers, decorators, builders, and homeowners to create the home decor of their dreams.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:38 AM | Comments (0)

Case Study: Clark Construction Expedites Nationals Park Punchlist with LATISTA, Finishing New Ballpark in Record Time

Clark Construction Group, LLC used Latista field management software and Motion Computing tablet PCs to facilitate the quality assurance phase of the construction of the Washington Nationals baseball stadium. Latista and Motion have published a case study detailing their part in the Nationals Park project.

Washington, DC (PRWEB) September 3, 2008 -- Latista Technologies and Motion Computing announced the successful application of LATISTA Field mobile software by Clark Construction Group, LLC in the construction of the Washington Nationals Major League Baseball stadium in Washington, DC. The process and results of the collaboration are also available in a detailed case study authored by Latista and Motion.

The Nationals Park project was a $611 million joint venture between Clark Construction Group, LLC, Hunt Construction Group and The Smoot Construction Company. Twenty HOK architects and 15 engineers from Clark/Hunt/Smoot used the LATISTA Field software and Motion LE1700 tablet PCs to collect tens of thousands of punchlist items in four weeks and automatically generate defect notices for more than 100 subcontractors. The automated processes and information synchronization allowed Clark to reduce office staff, eliminate paperwork and decrease inspection times, thus reducing costs in each of these areas. Constructing a ballpark of this size would generally take 36 months, but Clark/Hunt/Smoot was able to build Nationals Park in only 23 months, earning LEED certification and several project awards in the process.

"LATISTA definitely saved us time," said Clark Project Executive Matt Haas. "I really think this is the way to go as tablets get smaller, lighter and more durable."

Latista Executive Vice President Chris Ramsey also acknowledged the success of the ballpark project: "We are proud of our efforts with Clark/Hunt/Smoot in managing a very large volume of punch-list issues. LATISTA Field is truly scalable to any size project and can meet any challenge presented by the construction industry for managing quality assurance, field reporting, commissioning and punch lists."

For more information on the Nationals Park project and Clark's use of LATISTA-equipped Motion PCs, the case study is available through Latista's website at www.latista.com.

About Clark Construction:
More than a century old, Clark Construction Group, LLC, is one of the United States' most experienced construction service providers, with more than $4 billion in annual revenue and projects throughout the country. From small interior renovations to architectural landmarks, Clark supports its projects with teams of highly-trained construction professionals to ensure that the entire construction process runs smoothly.

About Motion Computing:
Motion Computing, headquartered in Austin, Texas, produces slate tablet PCs for mobile professionals in industries including healthcare, government, and field force automation. Motion is a mobile computing and wireless communications leader, combining world-class innovation and industry experience so individuals can use computing technology in new ways and places.

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.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:38 AM | Comments (0)

DuPont Building Innovations Announces Price Increases

DuPont Building Innovations announces price increases up to 15 percent in the United States, effective Sept.30, or as contracts permit, for DuPont™ Weatherization Systems products. Due to the accelerating price increases of oil-based feedstocks and energy, raw materials continue to be subject to significant cost increases.

Wilmington, DE (Vocus/PRWEB ) September 3, 2008 -– DuPont Building Innovations announces price increases up to 15 percent in the United States, effective Sept.30, or as contracts permit, for DuPont™ Weatherization Systems products. Due to the accelerating price increases of oil-based feedstocks and energy, raw materials continue to be subject to significant cost increases.

“DuPont Building Innovations is taking these actions in response to a step-change increase in raw material, energy and transportation costs,” said Todd Apple, DuPont Building Innovations director for the Americas. “We have worked to insulate our customers from these inflationary cost pressures by absorbing the cost increases, driving efficiencies in our processes, and by cutting costs. However, given the magnitude of the realized cost increases, DuPont is no longer able to fully absorb or otherwise address these higher costs.”

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.

9/3/08
The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPont™ and The miracles of science™, are registered trademarks or trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:33 AM | Comments (0)

Policy Forum in U.S. Capitol to Highlight Importance of Energy Efficiency in Buildings

Houston, TX (Vocus/PRWEB ) September 3, 2008 -- With a growing emphasis on energy conservation within the federal government, the built environment represents a sector with significant opportunities to reduce the nation's energy consumption. The National Academies of Sciences' Federal Facilities Council, in conjunction with the International Facility Management Association, will host a joint policy forum in Washington, D.C., Sept. 11, 2008, to focus on efficient energy use in buildings.

The third annual Public Policy Forum will present legislators with emerging issues and best practices relating to sustainability in facility management. The forum will offer a variety of individual presentations, with topics of discussion including energy efficient solutions for the built environment, the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions from commercial buildings and the challenges related to creating and supporting sustainable initiatives.

"This event presents a unique opportunity to facilitate dialogue between public and private sector leaders about sustainability in the built environment and to discuss legislative and policy trends," said IFMA Director of Government Relations Jeffrey Johnson. "This year's forum will address the driving forces behind recent energy legislation and energy efficiency requirements while attempting to evaluate the intentions of Congress and the administration in meeting these requirements."

Numerous federal officials have been invited to speak at the forum, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Sen. Barbara Boxer, Sen. Jeff Bingaman, Sen. Byron Dorgan, Rep. Bob Brady, Rep. Edward Markey, Rep. Jay Inslee and Rep. Dennis Rehberg. Other government and private sector speakers slated to attend are Donna McIntire of the State Department, Joe Grabowski of the Ferreira Group and representatives from IFMA.

The Public Policy Forum will be held in room HC-5 of the U.S. Capitol from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11. Facility professionals and members of the general public are invited to attend.

The forum has been coordinated with the second annual Facilities Management Workshop, a joint venture between IFMA, the FFC and the Society of American Military Engineers. Held Sept. 9-10 at the Washington Marriott in downtown Washington, D.C., the workshop will focus on issues facing senior facility managers in the public sector as well as the latest industry trends and best practices. For more information on the Facilities Management Workshop, click here.

IFMA is the world's largest and most widely recognized international association for professional facility managers, supporting more than 19,000 members in 60 countries. The association's members, represented in 125 chapters and 15 councils worldwide, manage more than 37 billion square feet of property and annually purchase more than US$100 billion in products and services. Formed in 1980, IFMA certifies facility managers, conducts research, provides educational programs, recognizes facility management certificate programs and produces World Workplace, the world's largest facility management conference and exposition. For more information, visit the IFMA press room or www.ifma.org.

Contact:
George Deutsch
713-623-4362
communications@ifma.org

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:32 AM | Comments (0)

Speedheat's Eco-Friendly Generation4 Electric Radiant Floor Heating Systems on Display at Joint NARI and NKBA Expo September 17 in Atlanta

The Atlanta chapters of NKBA and NARI are hosting a joint event to showcase the latest and greatest advancements in residential building products, Earth-friendly innovations and related services. Targeted to design professionals, residential builders and remodeling companies, the expo features many unique products and services including Generation4™ electric radiant floor heating by Speedheat®.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) September 3, 2008 -- The Atlanta chapters of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) are hosting a joint table top expo on September 17 from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the Metropolitan Club located at 5895 Windward Parkway in Alpharetta, GA. This premiere industry event will provide residential designers, builders and remodelers with a one-stop opportunity to learn about the latest products and services offered by local companies. The event will also feature networking, raffles, prizes and gourmet food. Among the many unique products on display, Speedheat's Generation4™ electric radiant floor heating systems will be featured. Speedheat® is also providing a RugBuddy™ -- the world's only UL listed plug-'n-warm electric radiant heating mat for use under area rugs -- as a prize for the drawing.

"As active members of both the local NKBA and NARI chapters, we are eager to show our support for these fine organizations and continue educating professionals on how Speedheat can enhance green building initiatives," says Peter Newman, President of Speedheat US. "Local shows, such as this, offer a great opportunity for companies to find partners who will fully service and support them. With floor warming becoming an increasingly popular upgrade, many local remodeling and design professionals are excited to find an Atlanta resource that provides top-quality products AND optional installation services."

About the sponsoring organizations: NARI Atlanta is a professional association for remodelers. In addition to providing education to their members, NARI Atlanta serves as a homeowner's resource for finding quality contractors, design-build firms, suppliers and other related professionals in the Greater Atlanta area. For more information, please visit www.nariatlanta.org. The Georgia Chapter of NKBA is a non-profit trade association in the kitchen and bath industry that provides resources for consumers and professionals. For more information, please visit www.nkbaga.org.

Additional Information about Speedheat®:
Speedheat offers electric radiant heating solutions that can be installed under virtually any flooring material including: carpet, ceramic tile, stone, floating wood, laminates, vinyl and more. Speedheat's Generation4™ systems are easy to install in a single room or throughout an entire house. Speedheat offers the ultimate in flexibility, control and comfort. Generation4™ products include: TileWarm™ - WoodBeWarmer™ - CarpetMate™ and ShowerWarm™.

Another unique "zone heating" option is RugBuddy™ -- the only UL-listed heating mat in the world, approved for use under area rugs. It is an ideal solution when installing fixed electric radiant floor heating is not an option. Like an electric blanket for the floor, RugBuddy™ turns regular area rugs into invisible space heaters and is an ideal solution for warming cold spots in any room of the home or office.

Speedheat® Advantages:
The idea behind electric radiant floor heating is really quite simple -- by installing a heating element under the flooring material, heat naturally radiates from the ground up and provides unparalleled gentle comfort. While the concept behind Speedheat's patented Generation4™ (G4) heating system is easy to comprehend, the advanced technology behind their products offers many distinct advantages and sets them apart in the industry.

"Because Speedheat's Generation4™ heating element is optimally engineered to be 'in touch' with floor finishes, it warms floors faster than any other systems and at lower, safer temperatures," explains Pieter Jansens, Chairman of Speedheat International. "Our G4 element improves comfort, health and safety. It also protects sensitive flooring and slashes energy consumption. Furthermore, only Speedheat is fully customized to meet the specific needs of each application."

Backed by the Industry's Best Safety and Satisfaction Guarantees:
Only Speedheat's G4™ systems feature the patented PTCSelfControl™ flexible heating element that is the thinnest in the industry at less than 1/16" in diameter. The self-regulating element prevents overheating, and the multi-stranded core is protected with a tough Tefzel® outer sheath to resist abrasion and aging. All Speedheat® products have undergone rigorous testing, including complete submersion in water while energized. All systems feature a full-surround ground screen that is an effective EMR, EMI and RFI shield, and GFCI protection provides absolute electrical safety. Speedheat's products are all UL-listed and National Electric Code (NEC) compliant.

Recent Recognition in USA:
Speedheat® was featured in two of the 2008 Southern Living Idea Houses -- the Taylor Creek Idea House (Oxford, MS) and the Verona Park Idea House (Ft. Worth, TX) and was recognized in the resource guide under the special thanks section as a key contributor. Speedheat was also showcased in the 2007 Christmas House, a show home benefiting the Alliance Children's Theatre in Atlanta. Additionally, Speedheat was selected for Lochstone Manor, the $7.25 million 2007 Roswell Woman's Club Showcase Home and included in both the "New" and "Renew" Showcase Homes at the Southern Building Show in 2006. Metropolitan Home magazine featured RugBuddy™ in their May 2006 Design 100 list. RugBuddy™ was also named as one of the "35 Best Home Products" in the February 2006 issue of Mountain Living. Speedheat® was also featured in This Old House Magazine's "20 of the Year's Coolest Tools, Gizmos and Gadgets" list. Speedheat® has also been featured in such publications/shows as: Southern Living, House DIY (formerly do!), Atlanta Home Improvement, Points North, Living in Atlanta, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Chicago Tribune, HGTV, FloorRadio, FloorDaily, Rug Insider and the Ask Andrea™ nationally-syndicated home improvement radio show.

Additional Information:
Speedheat US is located at 120 Arnold Mill Park, Suite 100, Woodstock, GA 30188. For more information please call 1-888-WARM-FLOOR (1-888-927-6356), or fax 1-888-927-6357 or visit www.speedheat.us.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:32 AM | Comments (0)

Sales Activity Analysis Added to BuyDesign® 6.0 Guided Selling and Configuration Suite from TDCI

BuyDesign 6.0 Also Delivers Enhancements to Product Configurator, Quoting & Ordering, and Distributed System Management

Columbus, Ohio (PRWEB) September 3, 2008 -- TDCI, Inc. (TDCI), the leading provider of configurator-based software solutions, announced today immediate availability of BuyDesign Insights, a new sales activity analysis application, along with Release 6.0 of the BuyDesign guided selling and configuration solution suite. BuyDesign Insights extends the BuyDesign suite to provide sales management with visibility and analysis of quoting and ordering activity across all indirect and direct sales channels. In addition to BuyDesign Insights, BuyDesign 6.0 delivers a number productivity and performance enhancements to the product configurator, quoting & ordering, and distributed system management components of the suite.

BuyDesign is a comprehensive guided selling and configuration solution developed to streamline the sales process for customized products. BuyDesign helps companies that manufacture products with a wide range of features, options, and dimensions increase sales by becoming 'easy to do business with' while at the same time helping them reduce order processing time, cost, and errors.

"With BuyDesign Insights, sales managers and other executives now have the ability to track and analyze all stages of the sales process from quote to order - even for dealers and distributors," said Dan DeMuth, TDCI President. "This greatly extends the manufacturer's visibility of the pipeline since they typically have not had access to indirect channel activity until an order is placed. This increased visibility helps manufacturers improve dealer collaboration, sales forecasting, and production planning."

In addition to basic information about quotes and orders such as product, quantity, and price, BuyDesign Insights also captures details about product configurations, including specific features, options, and dimensions. This information provides added insight for manufacturing planning as well as the basis for analysis of option selection trends and the impact of pricing and promotion programs.

Also available for immediate delivery, BuyDesign 6.0 includes a wide range of enhancements to improve the ease-of-use, implementation flexibility, and performance of BuyDesign. Enhanced components include BuyDesign Configurator, BuyDesign Channel Sales quoting and ordering, and BuyDesign InTouch distributed system management. For more about the BuyDesign guided selling and configuration suite, including the new BuyDesign Insights component, visit www.tdci.com/buydesign.

About TDCI and BuyDesign
TDCI (www.tdci.com) specializes in helping manufacturers and their distributors streamline the buying process for customized products. TDCI's BuyDesign® software is a comprehensive web-based guided selling and configuration solution developed to help companies increase sales by becoming 'easy to do business with' while improving profitability by reducing order processing time, cost, and errors. Built using a powerful product configurator, BuyDesign provides modular applications for guided product selection and configuration, product visualization, quoting and ordering, drawing and data generation, consumer interest creation, intelligent product catalogs and more.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:31 AM | Comments (0)

Explosion Proof Paint Spray Booth Lights Round Out OSHA Compliant Lights for Magnalight.com

Larson electronics (Magnalight.com) is expanding their inventory of explosion proof lights to meet the needs of paint spray booth operators and others who are required to follow OSHA guidelines.

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) September 2, 2008 -- Explosion proof lights go by many names, including hazardous location lights (or hazlo lights), confined space lights, class lights or intrinsically safe lights. Regardless of the term used, these lights are made from non-sparking materials and put off nominal heat. Typically, these lights are made from heavy duty materials, including heavy gauge housings, aluminum brackets and extra thick lenses. The cords associated with these lights are typically SOOW rated and are resistant to chemicals, abrasives and water.

Finally, the plugs may be rated for explosion proof environments as well, although most operators will connect their lights to the power source outside the hazardous location area. Operators in the petrochemical industry, oilfields, manufacturing plants, ship yards, paint spray booths, grain storage areas and fuel tanks seek out explosion proof lights in order to meet OSHA specifications and protect their employees from potential explosions related to the ignition of flammable vapors and/or dust particles.

Magnalight.com recently added more items to its explosion proof lights range, including handheld fluorescent lights, surface mounted fluorescent lights for paint spray booths, handheld HID lights for inspecting tanks and vessels and explosion proof headlights for hands free operation. Combined with it's existing range of quad pod mount and cart mount explosion proof light fixtures, like the 23-7/8 diameter, 400 watt metal halide, tank cleaning cart light, Larson Electronics' online presence is rapidly becoming a one stop shop of the manufacturers, environmental companies, oilfield, paint spray booths and oil rig operators around the world.

"We are looking to create a range of explosion proof lighting solutions that address the needs of almost any manufacturer, oilfield operators, environmental companies and paint spray booth operators, said Rob Bresnahan, President of Larson Electronics.

"We have small explosion proof lights that are rechargeable, 12 volt and 120 volt hand lamps, explosion proof string lights, cart based tank lights for man way entry and a whole host of explosion proof fluorescent lights that are UL rated Class 1, Division 1 for Groups C and D. Many of these products are also UL rated Class II, Division 1 for Groups F and G for various dusts, such as those found in grain mills of sugar plants. We understand our customer's applications and offer a wide range of cost effective, industrial grade explosion proof lights and intrinsically safe lighting products to help our customers safely complete their work. We even added explosion proof ventilator fans and ground fault boxes to our line to service our customer's needs for the entire project, whether they are sandblasting and painting a ship or a fuel tank. More importantly, we recognize the need for immediate response, and we inventory everything we sell on Magnalight.com for same day shipping. More often than not, we are shipping our explosion proof lights via same day or overnight service all over the United States," concluded Rob.

You can learn more about Larson Electronics (Magnalight.com) and their wide range of UL rated, explosion proof lights and related products, including remote control lights at www.magnalight.com or by calling 1-800-369-6671.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:31 AM | Comments (0)

Investors Wary the Philippines is Backtracking on Energy-Sector Reforms

There are signs the Philippines may be backtracking on energy reforms following record increases in oil prices. Investor concern is increasing just as the Philippines faces a potential shortfall in generating capacity.

Manila, Philippines (PRWEB) September 2, 2008 -- Investors in the Philippines' energy sector drove a 270% increase in committed investment in the first half of 2008, but are increasingly wary that the Philippines is backtracking on committed reforms.

Speaking before members of the American Chamber of Commerce recently, Philippines Department of Trade & Industry Undersecretary Elmer Hernandez said investment in the energy sector was primarily responsible for a 270% increase in committed foreign investment in the first six months of 2008 as efforts to privatize the sector accelerated. In recent months, however, investor sentiment has cooled.

Analysts and investors say one reason is that government is using its remaining generation assets to subsidize generation rates, making it impossible for them to compete profitably.

According to Global Source economists Romeo Bernardo and Marie-Christine Tang, the Energy Regulatory Commission -- which regulates power rates -- has mandated reduced generation rates for the state-owned National Power Corporation (NPC) that are P0.41 below cost. Ernie Pantangco, president of the Philippine Independent Power Producers Association which represents investors in the industry, said in a statement that government is effectively dictating unprofitable rates for investors who have purchased NPC assets or are planning to build new generating capacity.

The Philippines began privatizing electricity generation in 2001 with the passage of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), whose ultimate objective was to lower the cost of power by fostering private-sector competition. Although EPIRA was widely praised at the time as a visionary reform effort that other countries should emulate, the Philippine government began selling generation assets in earnest only in 2007.

Once 70% of NPC assets and existing contracts with Independent Power Producers (IPP) have been privatized, industry and consumers will have the right to choose who they buy electricity from. Originally, the 70% threshold was expected to be met in 2004. Although delayed, the Philippines is finally close to meeting the assets threshold after selling close to $3 billion in NPC generating capacity, mostly in 2007 and the first three months of this year.

However, none of the NPC-IPP contracts have been sold. According to Pantangco, the government hasn't decided how it should go about privatizing the contracts. In the meantime, a consortium led by Suez Energy has delayed remitting a 40% down payment on its winning $787 million bid for the 600 MW Calaca coal-fired plant which was due August 4. The winning bid was announced in October 2007.

Pantangco said government has so far failed to fulfill the requirements for turnover of the plant. "On the other hand Suez and its creditors are also likely concerned that the investment won't provide a return to investors if government continues to sell electricity below cost," he said.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:30 AM | Comments (0)

Economic Stimulus Act Provides Big Benefits to Construction Companies

Detailed guidelines published by Construction Partner outline tax incentives for construction software and equipment purchases made in 2008.

Roseville, CA (PRWEB) September 2, 2008 -- Construction Partner, a leading developer of integrated accounting, job costing and estimating software solutions for the construction industry, today announced that it has published important guidelines for construction companies on how to take advantage of the 2008 Economic Stimulus Act for businesses. The guidelines, which are available for download at www.ConstructionPartner.com, detail the depreciation benefits available to contractors for asset purchases, such as construction software, made in the 2008 tax year.

Although a great deal of media attention has been given to the 2008 Economic Stimulus Act and how it benefits individual taxpayers, less information has been shared about the tax incentives that this law delivers to businesses. For construction companies, there are some very useful provisions within the Act, primarily around depreciation deductions for new construction software, and equipment purchases.

To develop the guidelines, Construction Partner talked with Kevin Thurman, a Tax Manager CPA with ThomasYork, LLP, a California-based CPA firm that specializes in construction. According to Thurman, there are two parts to the Stimulus Act's deprecation features. Part one involves revisions to Section 179, a longstanding tax law that allows businesses to deduct a specified amount of equipment purchases each year. Part two involves bonus depreciation on asset purchases made in 2008.

Special Software Depreciation
Although software purchases are typically depreciated over three years, the 2008 tax provisions make this an especially good year for companies to upgrade their construction accounting software, especially if they've been struggling with the lack of functionality in generic software. In most cases, contractors will get a 100 percent tax deduction in 2008 for software purchases and hardware upgrades.

"For companies that have delayed a new construction accounting software purchase for one reason or another," said Construction Partner President, Russ Roy, "there's never been a better time, from a tax perspective, to move forward with that purchase. We're pleased to publish these guidelines to help contractors understand how to leverage the unprecedented tax incentives."
Time is running out to take advantage of the 2008 Economic Stimulus Act provisions; purchases must be made by December 31, 2008 to qualify for the maximum depreciation allowances.

To download the guidelines in their entirety, visit the Construction Partner Web site.

About Construction Partner:
Construction Partner is a powerful, fully integrated suite of accounting, job costing and estimating software solutions that simplify complex processes and automate repetitive tasks. A flexible, user-friendly system, Construction Partner is built for commercial, industrial, public works and residential contractors of all sizes and specialties that have outgrown generic accounting software, need to eliminate spreadsheets or are unhappy with their current solution.

A complete, affordably-priced package, Construction Partner includes accounting, job costing, estimating, equipment management, service billing, purchasing, inventory, certified payroll and labor compliance functionality. Each package also includes services such as installation, data conversion and on-site training. Construction Partner has been servicing the construction industry for more than 20 years. Thousands of construction professionals across the U.S. use Construction Partner to increase efficiencies and grow profitable companies. For more information, contact Amber Robbins: 800-395-7474.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:29 AM | Comments (0)

FLIR's New Best-in-Class i-Series Thermal Imagers Deliver Compelling Results

FLIR launches the all-new, class-leading i-Series thermal imaging cameras. The affordable 3-camera range--the i40, i50, and i60--offers stand-out infrared diagnostic capabilities designed to help in-house plant maintenance, electrical and HVAC technicians, building inspectors, and pro thermographers alike find problems faster and more easily.

Waltham, MA (PRWEB) September 2, 2008 -- FLIR Systems launches the all-new, class-leading FLIR i-Series thermal imaging cameras. The affordable three-camera FLIR i-Series range -- the i40, i50, and i60 -- offers stand-out infrared diagnostic capabilities designed to help in-house plant maintenance/MRO, electrical and HVAC technicians, building inspectors, and pro thermographers alike find problems faster and more easily. Leveraging FLIR's global leadership in infrared technology, the i-Series introduces numerous features found in more expensive cameras:

* Available FUSION scalable picture-in-picture allows the user to precisely blend an IR image with a visual reference image on a large 3.5" color LCD for easier diagnostics and more compelling reports.
* The built-in visual camera offers up to 2.3 megapixel resolution for amazingly rich details coupled with a built-in illuminator lamp to ensure quality images even in poorly-lit sites.
* 2% / 100mk (0.1C) thermal sensitivity delivers accurate and conclusive findings
* Infrared detectors ranging from 14,400 to 32,400 pixels lead the class in IR resolution
* 5-hour Li-Ion battery swaps easily on the field, so you never have to stop to recharge
* Lightweight, 1.3 pound, ergonomic grip design makes all-day, one-handed, "point and shoot" operation easier than ever.

For identifying electrical, mechanical, or building envelope issues, the FLIR i-Series cameras pay for themselves by revealing problems such as a faulty motor or bearing, before a failure or expensive tear-down. Finding an infrared camera for your in-house facility predictive maintenance program that's easy on your crew's budget and armed with class-leading capabilities just got easier. FLIR i-Series thermal imagers are available at local distributors through Extech Instruments, a FLIR company.

Equipped with everything you need for a rolling start

* 1GB micro SD Card (stores up to 1,000 radiometric JPEGs that require no special software for viewing and can be easily emailed or placed in Word docs without loss of temperature data)
* Swappable 5-hour Li-Ion rechargeable battery
* Power supply
* QuickReport software with USB cable
* Lens cap, hand strap, and heavy duty case

For more product information, data sheets, and interactive product video, visit www.extech.com/iseries

About FLIR Systems:
FLIR Systems, Inc. is a world leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of thermal imaging and stabilized camera systems for a wide variety of thermography and imaging applications including condition monitoring, research and development, manufacturing process control, airborne observation and broadcast, search and rescue, drug interdiction, surveillance and reconnaissance, navigation safety, border and maritime patrol, environmental monitoring and ground-based security.

For more information, to request hi-res images, or to interview a product or subject matter expert, contact:
Andre Rebelo
Global PR and MarCom Manager
Extech Instruments, a FLIR Company
+1.781.434.3901, andre ( dot ) rebelo ( at ) extech ( dot ) com

Related Quotes:
"Finding an infrared camera for in-house predictive maintenance that's easy on your budget and armed with class-leading capabilities just got easier." "Leveraging FLIR's global leadership in infrared technology, the i-Series introduces numerous features found in more expensive cameras." "32,400 pixels lead the class in IR resolution" "FLIR i-Series thermal imagers are available at local distributors through Extech Instruments, a FLIR company."

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:29 AM | Comments (0)

Syncon Homes First and Only Release of 1 Acre Lots in Minden, Nevada!!

For the first time, Syncon Homes is offering 1 acre home sites for sale at Skyline Ranch. These finished lots are located in the beautiful city of Minden, Nevada with incredible views of Tahoe and the Sierras. Come build your dream home!

Minden, Nevada (PRWEB) September 1, 2008 -- For the first time, Syncon Homes is offering 1 acre home sites for sale at Skyline Ranch. Located in the beautiful city of Minden, Nevada this new home community strikes a perfect balance between the panoramic views of Jobs Peak and the Carson Valley. Situated above the valley between Carson City and Minden, these 1 acre lots offer the privacy and views you have been looking for. Skyline Ranch residents can take an evening stroll through the neighborhood enjoying the lights of the valley, or take a day hike and roam through acres of near-by federal land.

The finished lots being offered at Skyline Ranch range in size from 1 acre to over 1.5 acres and are ready to build on. Wake up to incredible views of the snow capped Sierras, while being only minutes from the amenities of the Carson Valley. From the views and large lot sizes, to the local amenities and strong sense of community, Skyline Ranch offers everything you want in your new home community. "This is the first time that Syncon Homes has offered finished lots for sale to individual buyers in Northern Nevada. We have created an incredible opportunity for anyone looking to build their dream home in the Carson Valley. Thus far, the response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive," said Zach Streight, Director of Marketing for Syncon Homes. Pricing for these finished lots at Skyline Ranch starts in the high $100,000's.

To visit Skyline Ranch by Syncon Homes from US Hwy 395, turn East on Johnson Lane. Turn left on East Valley Road and finally turn right on Chiquita Drive. Our Sales Office is located at the corner of Chiquita and Terra Court.

To take advantage of this rare opportunity or for more information on Skyline Ranch by Syncon Homes, please call Dan Gearhart or Fran Halverson at (775) 267-1396 or visit the Syncon Homes website at Syncon Homes Community Page.

Built upon three generations of homebuilding expertise, Syncon Homes is a company that prides itself on building superior homes. Syncon Homes was just the 7th Builder in the nation to have all divisions recognized as Quality Certified by the National Association of Home Builders. Syncon Homes has communities throughout Northern Nevada and California.

Contact:
Zach Streight
Director of Marketing
Syncon Homes
775-781-9762
Syncon Homes Web Page

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:28 AM | Comments (0)

Granite Commercial Management to Attend the 11th Annual CMBA Western States Commercial Real Estate Finance Conference

Granite Commercial Management (GCM) will attend and host an exhibit booth at the 11th Annual CMBA Western States Commercial Real Estate Finance Conference at the Wynn Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada on September 14-16, 2008.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) September 1, 2008 -- Granite Commercial Management (GCM) will attend and host an exhibit booth at the 11th Annual CMBA Western States Commercial Real Estate Finance Conference at the Wynn Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada on September 14-16, 2008.

Granite Commercial Management offers a full suite of construction risk mitigation services, including contractor acceptance, project review and recommendation, national inspector network, statutory compliance in mechanics' lien laws, funds administration management, final disbursement documentation, reporting and reconciliation, and completion guarantee.

For more information on GCM, visit www.granitecm.com or send an email to sales @ granitecm.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:27 AM | Comments (0)

Tygar Manufacturing, LLC Announces the Establishment of the First TYGAR Decorative Curbing Equipment Distributor in Spain

The Spanish company will supply local contractors with Tygar's industry leading decorative curbing equipment, curbing products and additives, as well as provide training and support.

(PRWEB) August 31, 2008 -- Tygar Manufacturing™, LLC, the leading manufacturer of turnkey decorative curbing equipment for the landscape curbing industry, announces a new distribution relationship with Alicantina De Cortes ("Alicantina"), a leading provider of concrete construction services in Spain. With years of experience in the construction market, Alicantina is well qualified to represent Tygar in select markets, both commercial and residential, throughout Spain and Portugal. The Spanish company will supply local contractors with Tygar's industry leading decorative curbing equipment, curbing products and additives, as well as provide training and support.

Both companies have committed to sending representatives across the Atlantic to help support, train, and supply the proper expertise to launch the relationship. Just this month, Tygar has delivered the first container full of Bengal TG1000 Curb Machines and other curbing equipment to Alicantina's location in Spain.

While Tygar has sold into Europe for years, this new relationship marks the first of its kind on the European continent, and it exemplifies Tygar's continuing international expansion. In the past year, Tygar grew its decorative curbing business in a number of foreign markets, including South Africa, Greece, Australia, Mexico, France, the UK, several Caribbean countries, and the Middle East. In addition, the company's business more than doubled in Canada and new systems were shipped to Puerto Rico and nearly all 50 states in the US. Visit tygarmfg.com/international.asp for more information on TYGAR's international expansion.

Tygar Manufacturing, Complete Decorative Curbing Equipment Packages
Tygar provides the most complete turnkey landscape curbing equipment solutions for contractors who wish to enter the highly profitable business of decorative curbing. All of our equipment packages include the Bengal TG1000 Curb Machine, the SC2000 Sabertooth Sod Cutter, a custom curbing trailer with attached concrete mixer, complete training & support, and all the necessary accessories to get started. Call us at (888) EZ-TYGAR or visit tygarmfg.com to request a complete information package and DVD on the curbing business.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:27 AM | Comments (0)

eReplacementparts.com Released the First Tool Repair Forum of its Kind

eReplacementparts.com has released the first ever tool repair specific forum. It is designed to become an online community for tool enthusiasts and anyone looking for tool repair answers.

Sandy, UT (PRWEB) August 30, 2008 -- eReplacementparts.com just announced the release of their new tools forum. Tool enthusiasts now have a place to go where they can share their excitement, learn new techniques and get their questions answered. This is really the first forum of its kind. There are quite a few do-it yourself forums, hardware forums and woodworking forum but this is the first forum to focus solely on tool repair.

Co Founder, Dave Fairbanks, described it this way, "We want it to be a place where you can ask questions about power tools, and anything related to power tool repair…Power tool users run into very specific problems (when it comes to repair) - as the forum grows we hope that tool users everywhere can share their expertise if they have run into the same problem."

eReplacement parts plans to moderate the forum and highlight the questions that are asked most often so that it eases you in your search for your answer. It can be difficult to know what parts t order out of the hundreds of possibilities, this forum is designed to help ensure you get the part you need.

One of their biggest goals they say is to create an online community that discovers the answers together. eReplacements.com is striving to become the most comprehensive repair site of its kind. This new forum is a big step in the right direction.

About the Company:
eReplacementparts.com is one of the top repair sites in the industry leading in brands such as Makita parts and DeWalt parts. The release of their new tool repair forum is pushing them even farther ahead of the pack when it comes to tool repair.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:26 AM | Comments (0)

Leading Retail Services Provider has Team to Expedite Services for Multi-Store Repairs after Natural Disaster

DAVACO is prepared to respond to retailers' in-store needs following natural disasters, like Hurricane Gustav, and other significant events that impact multiple retail stores within a region. DAVACO's comprehensive range of services can be expedited and execution teams quickly deployed to restore operations in damaged stores.

Dallas, Texas (PRWEB) August 30, 2008 -- DAVACO, Inc., the national leading provider of retail services, announced today that the company is prepared to respond to retailers' in-store needs following natural disasters and other significant events that impact multiple retail stores within a region. With a nationwide presence of over 700 W-2 employees, DAVACO's comprehensive range of services can be expedited and execution teams quickly deployed to restore operations in damaged stores with efficiency and speed-to-market.

"In light of Hurricane Gustav's pending landfall, we want to make sure that our retail partners know that we are here to assist in the unfortunate event that damage does occur to their stores," said Rick Davis, CEO, DAVACO. "Obviously, our thoughts and prayers are with those communities and the safety of their people. But, we also want to be there to help our clients get back to business quickly, so that they can continue to service those areas."

DAVACO specializes in the management and execution of high-volume rollouts, resets, retrofits, remodels, merchandising, shop-in-shops, fixture/graphics installations, in-store surveys and associated logistics/consolidation. For special projects like disasters, the company is able to customize programs and coordinate multiple resources to develop a quick and smooth implementation to meet the specific needs of each individual store. In addition, DAVACO's team of associates is accustomed to executing programs in open-store environments, with minimal disruption to the stores' employees or customers, so most work can be completed during open-store hours utilizing a multi-phased approach.

"DAVACO can manage the entire process, while remaining sensitive to the unique circumstances and the sense of urgency in completing these programs," said Davis. "Unplanned situations like hurricanes or other natural disasters can put a lot of pressure and additional workload on an already busy team, especially with the holidays approaching. DAVACO is a trusted resource that will work with its clients to ease the process."

In addition, DAVACO's proprietary, web-based technology further supports the execution of these programs by providing real-time updates, instant photos, alerts, specialized reporting and task management.

For more information on DAVACO's special projects, like disaster restoration programs, contact DAVACO at 214.373.4700.

About DAVACO Inc.
DAVACO, the national leading provider of retail services, specializes in the quality management and execution of high-volume rollouts, retrofits, resets, in-store merchandising, shop-in-shops and associated logistics and consolidation. DAVACO offers a comprehensive range of services that helps retailers maximize brand presence and profitability at retail. Services include: ▪ Rollouts, retrofits, resets and remodels ▪ Fixture and graphics installations ▪ Project services ▪ Project management ▪ Hard- and soft-line merchandising ▪ Site and marketing surveys ▪ Logistics and consolidation ▪ Design services ▪ Special initiatives. Founded in 1990, the company is based in Dallas, Texas, with over 700 employees across the country. For more information, visit www.davacoinc.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:25 AM | Comments (0)

Group 70 Foundation Gives $100,000+ To Local Charities

Group 70 Foundation has awarded a total of $107,230 to 21 local community organizations, continuing the employee-created foundation's tradition of giving back to the community.

Honolulu, HI (Vocus/PRWEB ) August 29, 2008 -- Group 70 Foundation has awarded a total of $107,230 to 21 local community organizations, continuing the employee-created foundation's tradition of giving back to the community.

Group 70 Foundation was established in 2002 by the individual employees of Group 70 International, Inc., a Hawai'i-based firm specializing in sustainable development, architecture, planning and environmental services, interior design, and assets management. For the past six years, the foundation has provided grants to non-profit organizations whose missions focus on sustainability in the State of Hawai'i through design, education, culture, environmental sustainability and community development. Funds are administered by the Hawai'i Community Foundation.

"The Group 70 Foundation Fund is a donor-advised fund at Hawaii Community Foundation. It is unique because it is funded by employee contributions so management steps back and employees select the organizations," said Amy Luersen, director of philanthropic services for Hawai'i Community Foundation. "Many of the employee-donors even end up volunteering for the recipients. I'd like to thank Group 70 for its innovative approach to giving back to the community."

"Group 70 Foundation is unique because management steps back and employees run the program," said Amy Luersen, director of philanthropic services for Hawai'i Community Foundation. "Many of the employee-donors even end up volunteering for the recipients. I'd like to thank Group 70 for its innovative approach to giving back to the community."

Cami Kloster, a planner at Group 70 International and employee-donor, said: "When we formed Group 70 Foundation, we collectively wished to demonstrate our commitment to building better communities in Hawai'i beyond our professional services. Our priority is to give back to Hawai'i, our home. The foundation is a testimony to our shared values of generosity, civic duty, service and philosophy. We are pleased to once again have such a worthy group of recipients, each of whom contributes to a sustainable Hawai'i in their own way."

Gladys Quinto, another Group 70 employee-donor, said: "I feel very fortunate to be part of an organization that gives so much back to the community. I especially appreciate it because of organizations like the Y, after school art programs and community centers that had helped keep me out of trouble and encouraged me in the right direction. I've always imagined that one day I'd set up some sort of a trust or scholarship program to give back; however, since I'm not in a position to do so right now, I am happy that I have the Group 70 Foundation to help me fulfill some of that dream."

The foundation made formal presentations to the 2008 grant recipients at an awards reception held July 8 at Group 70 International's office in downtown Honolulu. The following recipients each received between $2,000 and $8,000 in grant monies:

* American Red Cross - Hawai'i Chapter
* Butterfly Society of Hawai'i
* Cooper Center Council
* Family Promise of Hawai'i
* Friends of Waipahu Cultural Garden Park
* Hawai'i Geographic Information
* Hawai'i Nature Center
* Hawai'i Sustainable Education Initiative
* Honolulu Academy of Arts
* Kai Makana, Inc.
* Kaua'i Planning and Action Alliance
* The Kohala Center, Inc.
* Kona Association for Retarded Citizens
* Na Maka Walu, Inc.
* National Tropical Botanical Garden
* The Nature Conservancy of Hawai'i
* North Kohala Community Resource Center
* Palama Settlement
* Re-use Hawai'i
* Storybook Theater of Hawai'i
* YWCA of O'ahu

Donations to the Group 70 Foundation Fund are primarily distributed through a grant-making process in which proposals are requested from community organizations. Group 70 International employee donors review the proposals, make selections and celebrate with the awardees. The grant-making process provides a direct way for employees to participate in the selection of awardees and, through the process, learn more about community activities. For more information, visit www.group70foundation.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:24 AM | Comments (0)

Samco Machinery Launches Spanish Website Offering Rollforming Solutions South of the Border

Samco Machinery proudly launches their Spanish website to make the rollforming process easier for customers south of the border. With instructional pages, the Samco Spanish website offers useful information about all types of projects for their customers in Mexico and Colombia.

Toronto, ON (PRWEB) August 29, 2008 -- Samco Machinery proudly launches their Spanish website to make the rollforming process easier for customers south of the border. With instructional pages, the Samco Spanish website offers useful information about all types of projects for their customers in Mexico and Colombia.

Steel framing is popular for residential, industrial and commercial construction. Steel studs are stronger than wood studs because they withstand the elements of all types of climates. With 30 engineers on staff and over 35 years experience Samco manufactures uncoilers, decoilers, rollform dies and rollforming presses for the construction industry, automotive industry and other customized industries.

Samco's educational Spanish website is the perfect place to learn about manufacturing. Informative instructional web pages guide Spanish clients through the rollforming process to boost business efficiency. Steel studs and framing make construction projects more durable because of resistance to weather, vermin, earthquakes, termite and tornadoes. Working with steel requires unique skills and tools. Samco's website provides complete information about rollforming and how to get started.

Joseph P. Repovs, Chairman and CEO of Samco Machinery, states, "Since 1972, Samco Machinery had the vision to be the world's leading rollforming systems manufacturer. At Samco, we service a multitude of industries. Any profile that needs metal bending is a project we want to assist with. We are a custom metal forming equipment supplier. Waiting for the world to come to us was not an option...we had to go out to the world." Samco is breaking into the market south of the border with their new Spanish website.

Besides launching their Spanish website, Samco recently enjoyed two overseas ventures. Samco worked with Tata Motors, maker of the NANO car in India, and Formia Tech Oy, a Finnish company. These international ventures prove Samco is holding true to their vision to position themselves globally as a leader in the machine industry.

Samco believes in the globalization philosophy. Countries need to be in the global economy to compete. As other companies in Canada struggle, Samco is expanding to various global markets. The Samco rollforming presses and other products successfully compete worldwide because of their superior qualify and outstanding customer service, including instructional website pages in Spanish.

For more information about Samco Machinery and the rollforming process in Spanish, visit www.samco-machinery.com/esp/ or call direct at 416-285-0619.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:24 AM | Comments (0)

Bridgeborn Announces Formation of Subsidiary Company, TriLink Systems

TriLink to serve the International Power and Energy Marketplace with focus on Nuclear as well as Alternative and Renewable Energy Systems

Virginia Beach, VA (Vocus/PRWEB ) August 29, 2008 -- Bridgeborn, a leading systems design, engineering and integration company, today announced the formation of a subsidiary, TriLink Systems. Based in Millersville, Maryland, TriLink Systems is led by two industry veterans in the Power and Energy marketplace - Bob Kershner, CEO and Hal Paris, President. Together, Mr. Kershner and Mr. Paris have over 60+ years experience supporting customers in the International Marketplace including the Middle East, North Africa, the United States, as well as Eastern Bloc countries and the former Soviet Union.

"We're pleased to have formalized this relationship to create TriLink Systems with Mr. Kershner and Mr. Paris. As we look at the global demand for power and energy paired with grass roots movements towards alternative and renewable energy sources, we believe that this is a strategic decision that positions Bridgeborn and TriLink for both near and long term success," said Tim Ambrosino, Bridgeborn CEO. "This relationship with TriLink will also allow Bridgeborn to grow our international business and increase the user base of Bridgeworks Powered Solutions. Through existing customers such as Johnson and Johnson, USAID and the Emirates Simulation Academy, Bridgeborn solutions have already been deployed to over 35 countries."

"The projected growth in the international Power and Energy marketplace speaks to the tremendous opportunity and need to infuse new solutions to contemporary problems. By creating this relationship with Bridgeborn, TriLink can call upon Bridgeborn for high end IT services and solutions in support of our growing customer base," said Bob Kershner, TriLink CEO. "Additionally, Bridgeborn's unique data visualization capabilities and proven solutions such as their Training Delivery Platform address the education needs in this marketplace as the aging workforce begins to retire. Both Hal and I are pleased to be part of the Bridgeborn family and are confident that this relationship will be very successful for years to come."

About Bridgeborn
Bridgeborn is a systems design, engineering and integration company that delivers innovative IT Solutions to the Federal Government and Commercial markets. Clients include DHS, DOJ, JFCOM, USAID, and US ARMY.

Bridgeborn is a privately held company headquartered in Virginia Beach, VA with offices in Arlington, VA, Annapolis, MD and Savannah, GA. For more information, go to www.bridgeborn.com or call us at 757.437.5000

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:24 AM | Comments (0)

Max Equity Offers Help For All Residential Mortgage Holders In order to Receive Top Dollars For Their Property Investments

Max Equity Contractor's Buying/Marketing Group L.L.C. today announced that they will offer a service that will "Maximize Home Owner's Equity" and give owners/mortgage holders a prov-en method of selling residential property at the highest market price. Robert Sayre, President of Max Equity, a re modeler and Real Estate Broker, stated that today more than ever it is essential to have all residential property in the best possible "Show Condition" in order to compete in this very competitive "buyers market".

Chesterfield, MO (PRWEB) August 29, 2008 -- Max Equity Contractor's Buying/Marketing Group L.L.C. today announced that they will offer a service that will "Maximize Home Owner's Equity" and give owners/mortgage holders a prov-en method of selling residential property at the highest market price.

Robert Sayre, President of Max Equity, a re-modeler and Real Estate Broker, stated that today more than ever it is essential to have all residential property in the best possible "Show Condition" in order to compete in this very competitive "buyers market".

Although residential home prices continue to fall and the tight credit market in making it even more difficult for buyers to purchase an existing home, these conditions create an excellent profit opportunity for Max Equity's select group of qualified contractors throughout the United States. (A "qualified contractor" is one that has the proper insurance and must be willing to give free estimates to mortgage holders of distressed properties who are interested in obtaining the "maximum retail value" for their property.)

Max Equity L.L.C. will be contacting all Federal Intuitions, Banks, Real Estate Companies and Investment Companies promoting our "6 Reasons To Contact Us"

Interested qualified contractors will be required to only recommend improvements that will return $2.00 for each $1.00 invested in remodeling.

Following are Max Equity's 6 Prov-en Reasons to use their services in order to receive the highest market value when selling any residential home:

1. Over half of your potential buyers will eliminate your home if it doesn't agree with their taste. (Painting with neutral colors will give you the greatest return on your remodeling investment.)

2. Buyers usually think repairs/updating will cost several times more than they actually do. (New counter-tops, new kitchen floor and painting the kitchen cabinets could eliminate a $30,000 negative and only cost several thousand dollars.)

3. Buyers don't want the mess or hassle of decorating/repairs after moving in.

4. Buyers usually don't have any money left after closing for decorating/repairs.

5. Max Equity's President is a Real Estate Broker who is able to understand what is necessary to close on a property although he doesn't engage in brokerage.

6. Max Equity's over 1000 independent contractors that carry workers compensation and liability insurance for your protection.

For additional information, contact:

Robert W. Sayre, President
Max Equity Contractor's Buying/Marketing Group L.L.C
E-mail: bob.sayre@maxequity.com
Phone: 866-532-9337
Fax: 877-537-4953

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:23 AM | Comments (0)

Trade Price Conservatories Flourishing In Wake Of Credit Crunch

Trade Price Conservatories post strong growth in contrast to the troubled UK property market, with people choosing to improve their homes rather than move.

Bournemouth, Dorset (PRWEB) August 29, 2008 -- The property market in the UK may be in freefall at the moment but cash-strapped Britons are instead spend money on improving their homes rather than moving, resulting in Trade Price Conservatories posting very strong growth figures for 2008 so far.

In a time when household bills such as food, gas and electricity are soaring; 84% of Britons are consciously trying to save money according to a survey by Halifax Home Insurance, the same survey found that one in seven are even considering joint trips to the supermarket to save on fuel costs.

These factors have played into the hand of home improvement companies such as Trade Price Conservatories who are seeing customers choose to spend their savings adding value to their homes rather than opting to sell and move in a property market slump.

Owner Karl Muspratt commented: "I'm absolutely delighted with our growth this year which is in complete contrast to the general property market trend, which is in serious trouble right now. Our customers are choosing to improve their homes to achieve a higher property value for when the market stabilises and starts to recover, and adding a conservatory is a great way to do this"

Trade Price Conservatories are a leading supplier of DIY conservatories nationwide in the UK. To see their range of conservatories including the 0% finance range, see the company website at http://www.tradepriceconservatories.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:22 AM | Comments (0)

PowerGrip High-Performance Flooring Adhesives Announced by Formulators

Formulators has introduced nine PowerGrip High-Performance Flooring Adhesives for VCT, sheet vinyl, rubber, wood, bamboo, quartz, linoleum, carpet tile and sports flooring. PowerGrip adhesives provide up to twice the moisture-resistance of conventional flooring adhesives and come with extensive 10 year warranties. Each PowerGrip flooring adhesive is custom-formulated to bond with a specific flooring material, forming an exceptionally strong, moisture-resistant bond. PowerGrip adhesives dry quickly and allow for same day installation. PowerGrip provides a ten-year warranted moisture resistance to eight pounds moisture-vapor-emissions-rate (MVER) at a cost of 16 cents per square foot for water-based chemistry and 26 cents per square foot for moisture-cure.

Santa Ana, CA (PRWEB) August 29, 2008 -- Formulators has introduced a line of nine PowerGrip High-Performance Flooring Adhesives for VCT, sheet vinyl, rubber, wood, bamboo, quartz, linoleum, carpet tile and sports flooring. PowerGrip adhesives provide up to twice the moisture-resistance of conventional flooring adhesives and come with extensive 10 year warranties. Each PowerGrip flooring adhesive is custom-formulated to bond with a specific flooring material, forming an exceptionally strong, moisture-resistant bond. PowerGrip adhesives dry quickly and allow for same day installation.

PowerGrip provides a ten-year warranted moisture resistance to eight pounds moisture-vapor-emissions-rate (MVER) at a cost of 16 cents per square foot for water-based chemistry and 26 cents per square foot for moisture-cure. This compares to approximately three pounds MVER commonly warranted by flooring manufacturers for their own, recommended or off-the-shelf adhesives. PowerGrip's benefits are realized when readings of four to six pounds MVER occur, most commonly in concrete slabs. PowerGrip provides better warranted protection for about the same price per square foot as for conventional flooring adhesives.

PowerGrip adhesives are warranted up to eight pounds MVER per thousand square feet per 24 hours at pH 10 and 85 per cent insitu relative humidity for 10 years per ASTM F1869, F710 and F2170 standards. They resist microbial growth, are free of VOCs, exhibit bond strengths up to 300 per cent stronger than similar products, and have been proven effective on over two million square feet of test installations. PowerGrip adhesives have been third-party certified for the Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS), FloorScore and LEED credits for low-emitting materials.

PowerGrip adhesives are designed to be used over clean, mechanically-prepared concrete surfaces. For applications requiring MVER resistance above eight pounds, Formulators offers its Hydro-Seal moisture-mitigation system of specially-formulated primers, adhesives and membrane components that, depending on their combination and similar to Sealflex, can achieve up to 12 pounds MVER resistance.

PowerGrip Flooring Adhesives are manufactured and distributed by Formulators, Inc., 1790 South Boyd Street, Santa Ana, CA 92705, 714-429-9804, www.formulatorsonline.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:22 AM | Comments (0)

Regency Lighting Awarded "Vendor of the Year" from Hub Distributing

Hub Distributing and Anchor Blue name Regency Lighting their "Vendor of the Year" for successfully partnering on design and new construction of their stores.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) August 28, 2008 -- At the Anchor Blue Retail Group Partnership Conference in Industry Hills, California, Scott Rosner, CFO of Anchor Blue, awarded Rick Weber, Sr. Director of National Accounts, and his support staff at Regency Lighting with the "2008 Vendor of the Year" award for successfully partnering with them on the design and new construction of their stores.

As Anchor Blue Retail Group experienced many dynamic changes over the past year, Regency Lighting played a critical roll in the delivery and project management of the 2007 new store roll out, providing exceptional logistical and technical support. Regency's national new construction team was able to meet all of the demands of Anchor Blue's aggressive roll out schedule. Regency Lighting focused on Anchor Blue's design intent and brand identity while paying close attention to key issues of budget, energy codes, environmental impact, and maintenance, resulting in a successful 2007-2008 partnership.

Anchor Blue Retail Group anticipates having another exciting year in 2009, and Regency Lighting is proud to be a part of this dynamic Retailer's future.

Regency Lighting offers full category expertise in lighting related products and services. Regency partners with companies in their design, development, and execution of solutions for new store construction, lighting retrofits, scheduled and on call maintenance, fulfillment of replacement lamp orders, and disposal of hazardous lamp wastes.

They are headquartered in Van Nuys, CA and have six (6) distribution facilities strategically located throughout the US. See www.regencylighting.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:21 AM | Comments (0)

Schools Rapidly Turning Green Across America

Smart New Designs Boost Learning, Cut School Energy Bills and Provide Better Indoor Environments for Students and Teachers

Washington, D.C. (Vocus/PRWEB ) August 28, 2008 -- Tens of thousands of students across the country will go back to school this fall to find their halls and classrooms turning green – as in environmentally sound and healthy, energy efficient and high performing. Hundreds of thousands of additional students are poised to attend environmentally designed schools within the next few years, according to the U.S. Green Building Council.

As the school year begins, nearly 1,000 school buildings will have met or are seeking LEED certification, with applications growing at a rate of more than one per day. The total number of square feet of LEED certified and registered school space will exceed 100 million square feet as the school year gets underway, according to new figures released today by USGBC.

LEED certification provides parents, teachers and communities with a “report card” for school buildings – verifying that a school was built to meet the highest level of energy and environmental performance. Through July, more than eight million square feet of school space are certified LEED while another 90 million square feet of projects are registered with USGBC. Registered status applies to projects before they are completed and applications are finalized.

“Schools across the country are going green,” said Rachel Gutter, education sector senior manager for USGBC. The non-profit Council administers the LEED Green Building Rating System for schools as well as for homes, affordable housing, offices, hospitals and other buildings nationwide. “Green schools save operating costs for the district, create a better workplace for teachers, provide a healthier learning environment for students, and support a more sustainable community. Every school in America needs to be green, and increasingly our school boards, teachers, PTAs and students are demanding it.”

Public or private schools in 50 states have turned to the LEED for Schools program for new or renovated buildings, as educators and school leaders increasingly see environmental building as a way to improve air quality for students, teachers and communities while also cutting energy and water costs. Maryland, Hawaii, New Jersey, Illinois, Florida, Ohio, Washington, Connecticut and the District of Columbia already require new schools be built green; California and Pennsylvania offer strong incentives to follow environmental specifications.

Case study analysis of completed LEED certified schools show the facilities use 33 percent less energy, saving 32 percent more water and reducing solid waste by 74 percent, compared to traditional school buildings.

On average, green schools save $100,000 per year, enough to hire two new teachers, buy 200 new computers or purchase 5,000 new textbooks, according to the report “Greening America’s Schools: Costs & Benefits” by Gregory Kats of Capital E, a national clean energy technology and green building firm. Another study in North Carolina by Heschong Mahone found that students in classrooms with the most daylight had consistently higher test scores by 7-18 percent.

And green schools’ carefully planned acoustics and abundant daylight make it easier and more comfortable for students to learn and for teachers to teach. According to case studies profiled in “Greening America’s Schools,” cleaner indoor air cuts down sick days for students and teachers alike, as green schools commonly report reductions in teacher absenteeism and teacher turnover.

Green schools even provide a wealth of hands-on learning opportunities, where the school itself becomes an interactive teaching tool.

“Twenty percent of America goes to school every day,” said Michelle Moore, USGBC senior vice president. “There is no better or more important place for us to demonstrate as a society that we can have a more sustainable future.”

Green schools are popping up everywhere from urban America to rural areas, in both private and public schools. Among the examples:

* Ohio now requires all new schools and major renovations to earn LEED certification, with 250 green school projects slated to begin in the next two years.
* All new schools in Chicago will be built green, like the Tarkington School of Excellence, where sixth grader Christian Torres doesn’t need an inhaler any longer - at his old school, he used it several times a day.
* Increasing numbers of school districts and private schools are committing to building new facilities and retrofitting existing ones following the LEED for Schools rating system. Districts from Charlotte County, Florida, to Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Anchorage, Alaska, are taking part.
* New Orleans is rebuilding public schools green following the disaster of Hurricane Katrina. As Greensburg, Kansas works to recover from the devastating May 2007 tornado, every new building in the town, including the schools, will be built following LEED guidelines.

Complete lists of schools meeting or registered for LEED certification can be found at http://www.buildgreenschools.org/leed/whos_going_green.html

About the U.S. Green Building Council:
The U.S. Green Building Council is a nonprofit membership organization whose vision is a sustainable built environment within a generation. Its membership includes corporations, builders, universities, government agencies, and other nonprofit organizations. Since USGBC’s founding in 1993, the Council has grown to more than 17,000 member companies and organizations, a comprehensive family of LEED® green building certification systems, an expansive educational offering, the industry’s popular Greenbuild International Conference and Expo (www.greenbuildexpo.org), and a network of 78 local chapters, affiliates and organizing groups.

For more information, visit www.usgbc.org.

About the LEED for Schools Rating System:
The LEED for Schools Rating System recognizes the unique nature of the design and construction of K-12 schools. Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED for Schools is the recognized certification program for green schools, with third-party reviews to ensure schools are healthy for students, comfortable for teachers and cost-effective.

By addressing the uniqueness of school spaces and children’s health issues, LEED provides a comprehensive tool for schools that wish to build green with measurable results. The certification system addresses issues such as classroom acoustics, daylight and views, mold prevention, and environmental site assessment.

For more information, visit www.BuildGreenSchools.org.

Ashley Katz
202.742.3738
akatz @ usgbc.org

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:21 AM | Comments (0)

Granite Loan Management Develops a New Legal Department

Granite is pleased to announce the addition of a legal department to the company.

Denver, CO (PRWEB) August 28, 2008 -- Granite is pleased to announce the addition of a legal department to the company. This department is designed to further enhance the products and services provided to our valued customers. In addition to reviewing contracts and handling a variety of legal and compliance issues, the legal department will be working with Granite's various departments to ensure Granite minimizes legal risk to our customers and provides legal protection to our company.

The legal department is comprised of Will DePuy, the newly appointed General Counsel of Granite and its affiliated companies. Will comes to Granite with more than 15 years of corporate legal experience which includes working for an international entrepreneurial company and for a commercial weather service provider. During the last five years, Will was General Counsel for a nationwide construction servicing and fund control company. Will is a graduate of the Sturm College of Law at the University of Denver and received a Bachelor's of Science degree in Business Administration from Arizona State University.

Will's right hand person and paralegal is Vicki Krengel. Vicki has been a paralegal for 18 years and comes to Granite from the Denver office of Patton Boggs LLP where she spent the last 15 years as a member of their Administrative/Regulatory Practice Group. At Patton Boggs she spent a great deal of time conducting factual and statutory research primarily in relation to environmental cleanups and toxic substances. Vicki also served on the Denver office's Environmental Management and Pro Bono Committees and the Hate/Violence Task Force of the Colorado Lawyers Committee.

The legal department will provide legal guidance and assist in helping protect Granite and our customers. For more information on Granite Loan Management, visit www.graniteloan.com or send an email to sales @ graniteloan.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:20 AM | Comments (0)

RFID Journal Announces RFID Journal LIVE! Middle East

TagStone will be the Cornerstone Sponsor for this first annual event, to be held Jan. 5-7, 2009, at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai.

New York, NY (PRWEB) August 28, 2008 -- RFID Journal, the world's leading media and events company covering radio frequency identification (RFID), has announced that it will host RFID Journal LIVE! Middle East, Jan. 5-7, 2009, at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai. TagStone, a leading business services firm that creates business intelligence with RFID and other wireless technologies, will be the event's Cornerstone Sponsor.

"RFID Journal has a large global audience, and we are thrilled that we are able to bring the world's premiere RFID conference and exhibition to the Middle East, where there is a clear interest in RFID technologies," said Mark Roberti, founder and editor of RFID Journal. "Adoption is growing around the world and we want to help educate those in the Middle East that want to use RFID to improve the way they do business."

The conference program will focus on how all types of RFID technologies--active, Wi-Fi, passive UHF, passive HF and more--can be used to improve operations in the construction, oil and gas and logistics sectors. Like all RFID Journal events, LIVE! Middle East will feature leading end users objectively explaining how they are using RFID to enhance efficiencies and streamline business processes.

"The Middle East has a very robust economy and a business climate that is quite innovative," said Mike Meranda, CEO of TagStone. "We believe that wireless technologies like RFID have huge potential across the GCC, and TagStone is extremely pleased to be the Cornerstone sponsor of RFID Journal LIVE! Middle East. RFID Journal is the worldwide authority on this industry, and they have a well-deserved reputation for providing the best educational content and the best technology trade shows anywhere."

In addition, the event will feature technology exhibits and demonstrations by the leading RFID companies worldwide. To become an exhibitor, contact sales@rfidjournal.com.

"This really is a unique opportunity for companies across the Middle East to learn about how RFID can be used in their operation," said Roberti, "and to meet the vendors that can help them deploy a successful solution."

For more information about RFID Journal events, visit www.rfidjournalevents.com.

About RFID Journal:
RFID Journal is the leading source of news and in-depth information about radio frequency identification (RFID) and its many business applications. Business executives and implementers depend on RFID Journal for up-to-the-minute RFID news, in-depth case studies, best practices, strategic insights and information about vendor solutions. This has made RFID Journal the most relied-upon and respected RFID information resource, serving the largest audience of RFID decision-makers worldwide--in print, online and at face-to-face events. For more information, visit www.rfidjournal.com.

About TagStone:
TagStone is a leading technology services firm that helps businesses solve problems, connect with trading partners, and optimize critical business processes with wireless technology, including RFID, GPS, RTLS, networking and data exchange. Based in Dubai, TagStone brings to bear global best in class wireless technology with local expertise and support throughout the GCC to enable client firms to create, interpret, and share data for improved business controls and decision-making. For more information, visit www.tagstone.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:19 AM | Comments (0)

Free Webinar: A Comprehensive Blueprint for In-Building Wireless Case Study: Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas

In a complimentary live Xtalks.com webinar, InnerWireless Presents "The Competitive Advantage in Healthcare Construction: Providing Your Clients With a Comprehensive Blueprint For In-building Wireless" on September 4, 2008 Complimentary Registration here: http://xtalks.com/events/registration/xto280innerwireless/reg1.html

Toronto, ON (PRWEB) August 28, 2008 -- Xtalks.com and InnerWireless announce a complimentary case study webinar intended for the healthcare and new hospital construction industry, specifically within the following fields:
· Healthcare/Hospital Construction firms/Developers
· Healthcare/Hospital Technology Consultants (those who advise new hospital and hospital renovation clients and their builders on what wireless/IT decisions to make)
· Healthcare IT decision-makers, those who would have input on the wireless/IT portions of the construction/renovation process
· Presidents/CEOs of new construction hospitals or hospitals renovation projects

Complimentary Registration here: http://xtalks.com/events/registration/xto280innerwireless/reg1.html

Thursday, September 4th, 2008, 1:00 - 3:00pm EDT
The Competitive Advantage in Healthcare Construction:
Providing Your Clients With a Comprehensive Blueprint For In-building Wireless

SPEAKERS FOR THIS EVENT: Bill Holman, Senior Vice President, Sales, InnerWireless, Inc.
--> Steve Tobin, Analyst, Frost & Sullivan
--> Kathi Cox, Manager, Information Services, Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas

Providing Your Clients With a Comprehensive Blueprint For In-building Wireless

With in-hospital wireless promising everything from improved patient outcomes and productivity to cost containment and customer satisfaction, an extensible wireless solution is critical to the success of your client's new healthcare facility. The ability to provide guaranteed hospital-wide coverage of cellular/PCS and Wi-Fi services is just one of the many benefits a customer gains with an in-building wireless solution. A state-of-the-art broadband wireless platform, turnkey design and professional installation teams are just a few of the value-added services that make InnerWireless the ideal in-building wireless solution for renovation projects and new hospital construction.

In this session:
- Learn about the importance of in-building wireless, firsthand, from hospitals that have successfully implemented and deployed the InnerWireless solution during their construction phase.
- Understand why wireless infrastructure planning is an essential part of the construction process.
- Know the value that your customers will gain from developing a managed wireless environment before they even get the keys to the building.
- Distinguish your offering with the knowledge to offer the very latest technology for in-building wireless communication.

Complimentary Registration here: http://xtalks.com/events/registration/xto280innerwireless/reg1.html

About InnerWireless:
InnerWireless enables today's mobile workforce with the ubiquitous in-building delivery of Wireless Wide Area Network and WLAN (Wi-Fi) for voice, data, video, location and other wireless services - guaranteed. Designed expressly for mission- and life-critical wireless applications, the HorizonTM Converged Wireless Platform is the only solution that guarantees both wireless coverage and signal strength. Horizon also offers innovative capacity solutions, such as a next-generation WLAN design for optimizing Wi-Fi quality of service levels. An industry-leading warranty, low TCO and energy-conserving GREEN design make Horizon ideal for the cost-conscious enterprise. In addition, InnerWireless offers the PanGo™ Unified Asset Visibility platform to aggregate and synthesize data from a variety of RTLS, RFID and sensor sources. Asset identity, location and status information can be integrated with enterprise applications to deliver a cost-optimized, future-oriented solution for location-enabling the extended enterprise. For more information about InnerWireless, visit www.innerwireless.com.

About Xtalks.com:
Xtalks brings industry experts to executives' desktops around the world in a web-based information network that provides insight into breaking business issues through interactive digital web conferences. Xtalks web conferences allow anyone with interest in a particular topic to participate in a web meeting by synchronizing their desktop computer and phone alongside industry experts. Xtalks is part of The Honeycomb Worldwide Group of Companies.

Honeycomb Worldwide creates peer-to-peer business-oriented social networking communities, connecting senior level executives by delivering content through new and established media channels. www.honeycombworldwide.com

Join Xtalks as part of your Carbon reduction plan.

For more information on this conference or Xtalks in general, or to enquire about speaking opportunities or sponsoring future events, visit www.Xtalks.com or contact Caullyn D. Godfrey at 416-977-6555 x 374.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:19 AM | Comments (0)

Ronald L. Thomas Former Director of Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission Among Panelists Announced for Economic & Land Development Forum

Jaeckle Fleischmann & Mugel, LLP and the University of Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning's Urban Design Project are pleased to announce the panelists for the Western New York Economic and Land Development Forum scheduled the morning of Thursday, October 2, 2008 at the Adam's Mark Hotel.

Buffalo, NY (PRWEB) August 28, 2008 -- Jaeckle Fleischmann & Mugel, LLP and the University of Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning's Urban Design Project are pleased to announce the panelists for the Western New York Economic and Land Development Forum scheduled the morning of Thursday, October 2, 2008 at the Adam's Mark Hotel.

The opening breakfast will include a panel session entitled "Growth and Development-A Regional Perspective", facilitated by Robert Shibley, Director of The Urban Design Project and Professor of Architecture and Planning at the University of Buffalo. Well-known lecturer and writer Ronald L. Thomas, the former Executive Director of the Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission, is among the panelists for the opening session.

Thomas has played a major role in the development of national programs that have become mainstays of local planning. He most recently led the development of a comprehensive Smart-Growth oriented framework plan in partnership with the Chicago region's six counties and 270 municipalities, as well as countless civic and business leadership organizations. His "Common Ground" initiative produced the "Regional 2040 Framework Plan", which has become a national model for community-based regional planning, utilizing leading edge computer and communication technology to guide smarter, more sustainable growth. The plan was named "Plan of the Year" in 2006 by the American Planners Association.

Local representatives joining Mr. Thomas include Brian Reilly, Commissioner of Economic Development, Permit and Inspection Services for the City of Buffalo; William M. Murray, Esq., Deputy Commissioner of Planning & Environmental Compliance for the County of Erie; and Dennis M. Penman, Executive Vice President of M.J. Peterson Development Company.

The half-day forum is designed to bring together developers, real estate, municipal and economic development professionals to discuss recent trends and issues related to the state of development in Western New York. For more information or to register visit www.jaeckle.com.

Panelists for concurrent breakout sessions are as follows:

Session 1 A: Going Green-The Leed Certification Process:

* Timothy Vaeth, Development Project Manager, Ciminelli Development Company, Inc.
* Linda Thomas, LEED, AP, Ecology & Environment
* Roxanne Button, Architect, Architectural Resources
* Dennis Gorski, SVP Government Programs, HealthNow WNY, Inc.

Session 1 B: So You Want to Locate Your Business in WNY:

* Paul Ciminelli, President & CEO, Ciminelli Development Company, Inc.
* Thomas Kucharski, President & CEO, Buffalo Niagara Enterprises
* Brian Sampson, Acting Regional Director, Empire State Development
* Samuel Ferraro, Commissioner, Niagara County Economic Development

Session 2 A: NYS Brownfields Tax Credit Revisions & BOAs:

* Mark Reid, Consultant to City of Buffalo, Urban Design Strategies
* Elaine Miller, Division of Coastal Resources, NYS Department of State
* Daniel Riker, Consultant to City of Niagara Falls, TVGA Consultants
* Ken Swanekamp, Department of Environmental Planning, County of Erie

Session 2 B: Greenway Development Update:

* Robert Kresse, Chairman, Niagara River Greenway Commission
* Hon. Paul Dyster, Mayor, City of Niagara Falls
* David Colligan, Chairman, Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy
* Jordan Levy, Chairman, Erie Canal Harbor Corporation

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:18 AM | Comments (0)

TENSOR Double-Action Hinge from DORMA Glas Offers Modern Design and Reliability

DORMA Glas now offers TENSOR, a stylish double-action hinge for glass doors. The device returns the door to closed position by the action of the hinges alone, without the use of a recessed floor or overhead closer, which is sometimes not an option due to environmental restrictions. It is perfect for interior applications like professional offices and art galleries, or anywhere else where minimal, modern design is desired. The TENSOR hinges are available for installation directly to the masonry or frame and is also available for installation to a fixed glass side panel.

Millersville, MD (PRWEB) August 28, 2008 -- DORMA Glas (www.dorm-usa.com) now offers TENSOR, a stylish double-action hinge for glass doors. The device returns the door to closed position by the action of the hinges alone, without the use of a recessed floor or overhead closer, which is sometimes not an option due to environmental restrictions. It is perfect for interior applications like professional offices and art galleries, or anywhere else where minimal, modern design is desired. The TENSOR hinges are available for installation directly to the masonry or frame and is also available for installation to a fixed glass side panel.

The hinge offers a slightly convex, radiused form, reminiscent of the award-winning ARCOS design by DORMA. It features an inlay which serves as a mechanical stop for the hinge, protecting the surface of the fixed hinge section from damage when the door is opened to 90 degrees.

TENSOR includes a fast and easy zero position adjustment for alignment of a single door, or pair of doors. At 90 degrees, the TENSOR system holds the door firmly and securely in position. Once pushed in the closing direction, the spring mechanism of the TENSOR fitting takes over, operating from an angle of 80 degrees.

TENSOR is available for single- and double- leaf doors for 3/8" (10 mm) or 1/2" (12 mm) glass and can accommodate a maximum weight of 143 lbs (65 kg). TENSOR has been third-party verified to 500,000 operating cycles, the only double acting hinge on the market to do so.

For more information or a product brochure, call DORMA Glas at 1-800-451-0649 or visit www.dorma-usa.com.

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 05:17 AM | Comments (0)

VISTA Formally Endorses Building Information Modeling (BIM) Standard -- BIMStorm™ Sponsorship Solidifies Commitment to Building Life-Cycle Collaboration

VISTA Technology Services, Inc. (VISTA) announced that it will sponsor BIMstorm™ Alexandria, Federal Friendly Zones™ this coming Fall 2008. This formal collaboration brings facility planners, architects and builders together in an exchange that promotes information integrity for the built environment. It supports the Federal facilities community in taking a world-leading role in sustainability.

Herndon, VA (PRWEB) August 28, 2008 -- VISTA Technology Services, Inc. (VISTA) announced today that it will become a cosponsor of BIMStorms™. This formal collaboration brings facility planners, architects and builders together in an exchange that promotes information integrity for the built environment. VISTA will sponsor BIMstorm™ Alexandria, Federal Friendly Zones™ this coming Fall 2008.

"Even though our business works further into the life-cycle management process than design and construction, it is critically important that we endorse evolving sustainability standards like BIM and LEED," said VISTA President and Chief Executive Officer David Baxa. "Our bottom line is that it's the right thing to do for our customers, our profession and for our society. We see BIMStorm™ sponsorship as taking one more step towards greater social responsibility as a business."

BIMstorm™ origins date back to the mid-90s when the architecture firm ONUMA was using BIM in ways that focused on the "i" or information piece of Buidling Information Modeling. This emphasis on data allowed worldwide collaboration for ONUMA and its project teams. The process and tools continued to evolve within ONUMA throughout the 90s. At the time, it was common practice for client deliverables to come in form of traditional CAD files or hard copy documents, but not the data itself. Forward-looking clients recognized the value of the underpinning data, and ONUMA gradually started integrating it more closely with projects and engaging the project teams in advanced use of the "i" in BIM.

"BIMStorm™ is a logical progression from these beginnings," according to Baxa. "When ONUMA partnered with the buildingSMART alliance at the National Institute of Building Sciences to create BIMStorm™, the energy and visibility created across the facility professions was significant. It supported the Federal facilities community in taking a world-leading role in sustainability."

VISTA's sponsorship of BIMStorm™ Alexandria, Federal Friendly Zones™ is supporting the transformation of the industry. Many Federal organizations already endorse BIM including the Coast Guard, Smithsonian Institution, General Services Administration, Department of Homeland Security and others. More BIM-compliant buildings in the Federal inventory will reduce the cost of implementing portfolio management and sustainability programs.

"One of our greatest challenges in asset management lies in capturing and sustaining information about buildings that have existed for some time," commented David Baker, VISTA's National Director for Asset Management Solutions. "Anything that our industry can do to reduce data-capture effort and cost will directly make improved life-cycle asset management more obtainable. To that end, BIM data gives life-cycle managers a significant boost forward."

VISTA's core business in facilities asset planning and management will directly benefit from the BIMSmart™ initiative. BIM data is typically created during a building's design and construction phases at the front-end of the life-cycle, when the cost is virtually zero. Bringing an entire portfolio up to BIM standards will be a landmark for life-cycle asset planning and management.

About VISTA:
VISTA is the leader in decision support analytics and technology-based solutions for government real property. Government executives use VISTA for information technology, management consulting, decision support systems and services. Our focus on real property helps our clients gain the greatest value from money they spend on buildings, land and infrastructure.

VISTA's services and solutions help collect and analyze massive volumes of data. The result is high quality financial performance information that makes it easier to plan and implement effective policy, management, resource stewardship, and budget choices.

In short - VISTA builds better decision support. We help customers evolve best practices, consistent reporting and performance measures, all related to the best use of assets while managing costs. For more than 20 years, VISTA's solutions have helped government run better - cutting costs, eliminating waste and improving performance. To learn more, visit www.vistatsi.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:17 AM | Comments (0)

Chief® Showcases Installer-Inspired FUSION™ Series Fixed and Tilt Mounts at CEDIA 2008

Take control of your install with the all-new FUSION, engineered to solve common installation problems for the professional installer.

Minneapolis, MN (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- www.chiefmfg.com - Chief's new FUSION universal mounting system provides the most progressive collection of features available today, focusing on usability and speed of installation. The new low-profile design, available in fixed or tilt models for 26"-75" TVs, was engineered to solve the most common installation problems for the professional installer and free up valuable time.

To develop the FUSION Series, Chief began by conducting valuable field research. The Chief product development team joined professional installers onsite, to observe specific challenges they are faced with when mounting flat panel TVs. These challenges, ranging from inconvenient stud location to perfect leveling of the flat panel, directly influenced the design of FUSION.

Represented by the 4 C's, features of the FUSION Series work to perfect flat panel wall mount installations. The 4 C's of FUSION include:

1. Centerless™ Lateral Shift allows perfect centering of a flat panel TV, offering up to 16" of post-installation adjustment (8" left or right of uprights), to offset the mount from studs.
2. ControlZone™ Leveling provides fail-proof mounting. Make all needed adjustments after the mount is on the wall, including overall mount height and leveling.
3. Centris™ Low-Profile Tilt provides effortless, fingertip tilting without tools while remaining less than 2" deep.
4. Click-Connect™ features an audible click when the screen safely engages with the mount. For easy cable access, use the built-in cable that temporarily positions screen away from the wall.

Customizable for any application, FUSION offers integrated accessories, including a glass component shelf, side speaker and center channel speaker adapters that are automatically leveled with the mount.

Simplifying the mounting process and decreasing installation time, the new FUSION Series presents a fully integrated solution to answer common problems faced by installers.

For more information, visit Chief at CEDIA Booth #1014.

About Chief
Chief Manufacturing is a division of Milestone AV Technologies, a Duchossois Group Company, and has more than 30 years of proven product and service excellence. Committed to responding to industry needs in the Pro AV, Residential and Office markets, Chief offers a complete line of mounts, lifts and accessories for flat panel displays and projectors.

Chief continues to design innovative mounting solutions that complement the technology they support. With multiple product awards and patented designs, Chief provides unique mount features, and is recognized for delivering not only quality products, but knowledgeable, helpful customer service.

U.S. and Europe sales offices support a global network spanning the Americas, Europe, the Pacific Rim and beyond. Chief distribution centers are located in Minnesota and the Netherlands. www.chiefmfg.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:16 AM | Comments (0)

Free "New to House Plans?" Report Offered by Leading House Plans Website

HomeDesignCentral.com offers limited-time download of popular "New to House Plans?" special report. In the report, readers will learn how to save thousands on their new house plans…

Baton Rouge, LA (Bluehost/PRWEB ) August 27, 2008 -- Due to popular demand for simple and easy-to-follow steps on how to find affordable and easy-to-build house floor plans, the "New to House Plans?" Special Report was released today by Home Design Central.com.

"We are very fortunate to be able to talk with many different individuals and families, on a weekly basis, about what they're looking for in their new house plans. One concern that seems to be a constant, is that they are confused about how the house plans process works, and aren't really sure how to proceed", noted Jill Phillips of HomeDesignCentral.com.

"We know that the process can be confusing, and that's why we developed the "New to House Plans?" special report. Its ONLY purpose is to educate new house plan shoppers about the entire process and what affordable options are available to them."

In this special report, consumers can learn everything about how the "house plans shopping" process works, including:

* What are the different house plan options I have, and what are the advantages / disadvantages of each?
* What are the differences between "Stock" Home Plans vs "Custom" House Plans?
* What do I need to know about my house plans when going to local building officials to obtain permits?
* What are the most-popular house plan features being included in new homes?
* What are the different types of home foundations, what are the characteristics of each, and which one is right for you?
* What if I need changes to the house plans? How does the floorplan modification process work and how much does it cost?
* What are the different types of plan packages that are available and which one is right for your specific needs?
* And finally, "What to do Next"? An easy-to-follow roadmap to getting the exact house plan you want, at a fraction of the price of a custom set of house plans…

"Hopefully, this comprehensive report will help people who are beginning the house plan search process to better understand what options they have, from the outset. Additionally, if anyone should have additional questions about stock house plans, thats not covered in the report, our team at HomeDesignCentral.com is always happy to answer those, noted Jill Phillips.

You can access the Limited-Time, Free Special Report at:

http://www.HomeDesignCentral.com/freereport

For additional information on the house plans available on Home Design Central.com website, contact Jill Phillips or visit www.HomeDesignCentral.com.

About HomeDesignCentral.com:
Home Design Central.com is the premier stock house plans broker on the Internet, offering a searchable database of thousands of the most-popular house floor plans, home plans, dream houses, and blueprints from the nation's leading building designers and architects.

To learn more, visit www.HomeDesignCentral.com today, and join our "House Plan News" mailing list to receive a special subscriber-only offers and money-saving tips on building your new home…

Press Contact:
Jill Phillips
Home Design Central.com
phone: 1-800-734-0829
email: info @ HomeDesignCentral.com
web: http://www.HomeDesignCentral.com

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:16 AM | Comments (0)

Housing Slump Creates Boom for Tax Lien Investors, Says BuyTaxLiens.com Owner

Online sales of tax lien properties, also known as tax lien certificates, are taking off says Denny Mitchell, owner of BuyTaxLiens.com. His tax lien auction website specializes in providing a free daily list of tax lien properties resulting from government tax lien foreclosures and has been growing at a break neck pace recently thanks to the distressed housing market fueling a new nationwide boom in online tax lien investing.

West Palm Beach, FL (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- Denny Mitchell, a commercial real estate developer with an active interest in investing in tax lien certificates, has turned his part time hobby into a wildly successful web community for new tax lien investors. In April of 2008, Mr Mitchell launched BuyTaxLiens.com thinking it would be a simple site for he and his friends to keep tabs on new tax sales online, but to his surprise the site took on a life of its own generating a rapidly growing list of loyal subscribers. This has spurred him to add features like free daily email alerts announcing new tax lien sales and periodic free video tutorials on tax lien investing driven by questions from his email list subscribers.

Although not often discussed in mainstream media, the underground world of investing in tax liens and tax deeds is nothing new. Wealthy family trusts and large institutions have been buying large portfolios of tax certificates across state lines for many years, essentially using them as a safe harbor in volatile economic times.

In 2009, it is projected that at least 29 states will be facing combined budget shortfalls of $48 billion. This in part due to the effect of delinquent property taxes squeezing local governments for cash as the fallout continues from the housing bust according to The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a Washington DC think tank. What this means for real estate investors is that for the foreseeable future there will continue to be plenty of tax liens available to purchase on properties throughout the country.

For those unfamiliar with buying tax liens...essentially when a property owner doesn't pay their property taxes for a given year, the local government must raise the cash another way to keep basic municipal services running like police, fire, and schools, to name a few. In order to do this they have public tax sales to sell notes known as tax lien certificates. Each state varies on how these sales are conducted and what level of return is paid. For example, Florida tax certificates offer returns as high as 18% per annum with 1st position lien rights even in front of the 1st mortgage of a bank, plus, the tax certificate holder inherits almost government like powers including the right to foreclose on the property in two years if not repaid. Texas offers returns on tax deeds as high as 50%! To learn more about tax lien investing sign up for free email alerts and video tutorials by visiting: http://www.buytaxliens.com

Like most industries, the web has been changing how investors find tax lien certificates online so its no surprise that there have been many paid sites popping up to serve this hot new online investment sector. By using the internet, many investors can now shop for tax deals anywhere in the country and find tax lien certificates on every property type including residential, retail, office, industrial properties and of course raw land. Shopping online also takes the pressure off by allowing more time and tools for due diligence and price comparisons.

"I encourage investors new to tax lien investing to first just watch live sales for a while and study the deals before buying anything - similar to virtual stock trading. Once they are ready to make their first purchase, begin with a very small tax certificate, say under $200-$300. After they do a few small deals successfully and get comfortable with the process, then start increasing the size of their deals along with the number of cities and property types in their portfolio. The best thing about our site is that unlike most sites, visitors can actually watch live auctions for free for as long as they like to get familiar with the process and even watch tutorials without buying anything. We have partnered with a few very well known online players to deliver a list of new tax sales to our subscribers everyday in a secure online shopping environment." Said Denny Mitchell, owner of BuyTaxLiens.com.

Considering the low cash basis required to get started and steady cash-on-cash returns, coupled with the quasi governmental powers associated with this type of lien ownership, tax liens are the new hot investment of choice.

For additional information on how to invest in tax lien properties, visit http://www.buytaxliens.com and sign up for the free daily tax sale alerts and newsletter at the top of the page, or check out their videos on YouTube.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:15 AM | Comments (0)

Solar Innovations, Inc. Introduces Ideas for Passive Greenhouse Environments

Solar Innovations, Inc., a custom manufacturer of residential and commercial greenhouses; conservatories; sunroom; and folding, tilting, and sliding glass doors, walls, windows, and screens, introduces ideas for passive energy greenhouse environments.

Myerstown, PA (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- Solar Innovations, Inc., a custom manufacturer of residential and commercial greenhouses; conservatories; sunroom; and folding, tilting, and sliding glass doors, walls, windows, and screens, introduces ideas for passive energy greenhouse environments.

It is important to consider geographic location and orientation relative to existing structures when designing passive greenhouse enclosures. Maintaining ideal amounts of sun exposure while minimizing heating and cooling energy requirements can be achieved with proper location planning and the inclusion of the correct greenhouse accessories.

There are many options which customers may choose to incorporate into their greenhouse in order to improve energy efficiency. Everything from high performance glazing to low energy fans can be selected to meet a customer's personal needs and energy requirements. Natural ventilation patterns provided by skylights, ridge vents, and eave vents are the ideal place to begin. Ridge vents and eave vents opened simultaneously create circular air flow, naturally cooling the structure and creating a healthier environment by removing stagnant air.

Beyond simply ventilating the structure, glass choice and shading options can work in tandem to create an energy efficient, controlled environment. The type of glass chosen will play an important role in maintaining the greenhouse's temperature by either reflecting sunlight to keep solar heat out, keeping heat in, allowing heat to escape, or allowing additional sunlight to enter the structure and create a more temperate atmosphere. Selecting the appropriate glass type depends on several factors: the purpose of the greenhouse, the geographic location of the greenhouse, and the directional orientation of the greenhouse relative to the sun. To improve efficiency, more than one type of glass can be utilized in the structure to meet the specific needs of the greenhouse. Interior and exterior shades are available in both fixed and operable options to help control the temperature in the greenhouse by blocking some of the sunlight. They are also helpful for shading areas of the greenhouse that require less sunlight than others.

Depending on orientation, sun exposure, and accessory configuration, use of the sun to heat flooring or rear walls can work in conjunction with low energy fans to move the radiant heat throughout the greenhouse and into adjoining structures. Large water tanks stored inside the structure can also be used as a radiant heat source as they will store the solar heat and release it as the air temperature drops.

The Solar Innovations, Inc. team designs each structure for the specific application of each greenhouse. Customers who desire a functional http://www.solarinnovations.com/residential/greenhouses/[greenhouse with living space can be accommodated by a conservatory greenhouse from Solar Innovations, Inc. These functional structures take the best of two worlds, living space and growing space, and combine them to create a relaxing, harmonious environment. With effective planning and goal setting, we provide exquisite, livable growing space. Our thermally enhanced systems can integrate nearly any accessory including windows, doors, and skylights. The perfect blend of passive solar and useable space can be achieved with proper planning. Contact Solar Innovations today at skylight@solarinnovations.com or call 800-618-0669 for information on passive energy greenhouse enclosure.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:15 AM | Comments (0)

Worlds First Totally Safe Glow Paint Is Launched In The UK

The first certified VOC Free, Child-Safe, Eco-Friendly Glow In The Dark Paint is to be launched this week in the UK. After more than 12 months of research and development a true 100% VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) FREE Glow Paint will be available. Meeting stringent EU Toy Safety Regulations the new paint contains none of the harmful VOC's found in most paints and which contribute greatly to low-level pollution and health & safety issues.

Rossendale, Lancashire, UK (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- This week sees the UK launch of Superstarz (www.glowpaint.net), a ground-breaking new Glow in the Dark paint from interior decorating specialists Superstars Ceilings working in conjunction with Starz Ceilings. The paint is a world-first in terms of safety and following rigorous testing has been deemed 100% safe for use by both adults and children alike. Taking more than a year to develop Superstarz Glow in the Dark paints are seen as a major step forward in Glow Paint technology.

Most paints, including Glow Paints contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's), particularly formaldehyde and lead, which are harmful to everyone. They can be extremely damaging to personal health and the environment and paint ranks as one of the top contributors of this type of pollution. There is extreme concern over the high levels of VOC's that we are exposed to whilst using paints.

Superstarz paint has zero VOC's and has been developed by a leading scientist whose life's work has focused on Glow in the Dark technology. Now for the first time ever a Glow in the Dark paint is available that is totally safe and free of any formaldehyde and lead. Important to note is that the new Superstarz paint is fully compliant to EU toy safety regulations EN71 part 3. The paint is also beneficial to asthmatics and sufferers of allergies.

The launch comes just days after the department store Harrods was forced to recall hundreds of toys after tests found potentially harmful levels of formaldehyde, just one of an increasing number of chemicals and lead compounds being found in products causing them to be removed from the market.

The search for a 100% VOC Free, Child-Friendly Glow in the Dark paint was deemed necessary as Superstars Ceilings (www.superstarsceilings.info) use Glow paints to transform children's bedroom ceilings into truly amazing out-of-this-world cosmic night sky murals. These murals remain invisible during the daytime. The paint is then charged by daylight, UV or artificial light and at night the paints glow for up to 12 hours and the ceilings come to life. Mark Watts from Superstars Ceilings says "As our work involves using Glow In The Dark paints on a daily basis in children's rooms it was important to find a totally safe paint that would not have adverse effects on us during the application stage and also to the child using the room once each job was completed. With the introduction of our new Superstarz range of paints we now have that peace of mind."

Ceilings painted with Superstarz paint have been proven to help children sleep. " I am delighted now that Benjamin sleeps not only with the light off but also with his door shut. This is something I thought we would never achieve, but now he can't wait to see his ceiling," said one happy parent.

Superstarz glow paint is now on general sale and comes in four colours: blue, violet, green and aqua and a 60ml pot costs just £15.99 (including postage and packing).

For further information on this exciting breakthrough in paint technology visit the Superstarz website at http://www.glowpaint.net/

Media Contact - Mark Watts @ http://www.glowpaint.net/

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:14 AM | Comments (0)

Landscape Garden Artist Scott Cohen Takes Top Award for Pool and Spa Design

Acclaimed landscape garden artisan Scott Cohen was recently presented with a 2008 Masters of Design Award from Pool and Spa News for a Calabasas, CA backyard design. This is the second time Cohen and his Los Angeles-based outdoor design and construction firm, The Green Scene, have been selected for this top honor.

Canoga Park, CA (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- Acclaimed landscape garden artisan Scott Cohen was recently presented with a 2008 Masters of Design Award from Pool and Spa News. This is the second time Cohen and his Los Angeles-based outdoor design and construction firm, The Green Scene, have been selected for this top honor.

The Masters of Design Award recognizes spectacular pool and spa projects that push the boundary of great design. This time Cohen was selected for his work on an exceptional backyard for a Calabasas, California residence.

"I designed and built every aspect of this project including the patio covers, fireplace and decorative iron pavilion. This project tapped into everything I've learned how to do over the past 20 years and required every bit of creativity that I could muster for a project," says Cohen. "I am honored to receive the Masters of Design Award for this backyard resort. My entire team is excited to receive the recognition from our peers and the accolades that come with this coveted award."

The award-winning yard features a sweeping poolscape that takes full advantage of the property's rolling hillside views while showing off the home's elegant Tuscan-inspired architecture. To create this European style retreat, Cohen combined rustic hardscape materials with elegant old-world detailing, including a patio pavilion arrayed with intricate iron scrollwork. The fan-shaped, vanishing edge pool pristinely reflects the arches, columns, and ironwork of the home and yard. Its dramatic shape creates a focal point that draws the viewer's eye toward the center of the house.

During his twenty plus year career, Cohen's innovative work has garnered numerous other awards and has attracted national media attention. In March of this year, Cohen swept the annual Western Pool and Spa Show Design Contest with a total of seven awards in five categories, including first place in the top three categories.

His outdoor creations are frequently featured on Home and Garden Television. This project and many others are featured on a new HGTV show, Get Out, Way Out, and his work has been showcased in a number of other HGTV programs, including Sizzling Outdoor Kitchens, Big Splash, Landscaper's Challenge and Designing for the Sexes.

Cohen provides outdoor design consultation for clients throughout Southern California and by phone nationwide. Many of Cohen's designs are also available through Fetch-A-Sketch (www.fetchasketch.com), an online resource for ready-to-use perspective drawings and construction plans.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:13 AM | Comments (0)

Seven Life Saving Tips Every Person Using A Fall Protection Safety Harnesses Should Know from SnugHarness.com

Online video is the primary way to inform SnugHarness.com customers of the best safety practices in fall protection -- how to go from sorry to safe before going up on the roof, tower, or jobsite. It is the most entertaining and informative way to explain how safety fall equipment works for all who want to follow laws and requirements to protect employees.

(Vocus/PRWEB ) August 27, 2008 -- A new fun video called “Inspecting Your Harness” is now online to help make those safety recommendations more livelier when discussing OSHA safety standards. The SnugHarness.com video lists seven areas to check on your Fall Protection Harness:

1. Check your webbing on your harness every time your wear it.
2. Check the D-ring for sharp edges that might cut the webbing
3. Check the buckle connections for sharp edges
4. Check the grommets on the tongue buckle for stress
5. Make sure the mating buckles are in good working order
6. Check out the quick connect buckles
7. Retire your harness every five years whether you wear it daily or not.

The staff believes that they can have fun with videos when providing serious Fall Protection Safety Gear to save your life. It just might help get your workers to wear the equipment that will protect them while on the job and on the roof. This new video is the 5th in the series of SnugHarness.com How-To videos for Fall Protection.

SnugHarness.com takes the time to group all the hard-to-find fall equipment safety products in one place. You can find the best tools, roof anchors, safety harnesses, and protective gear to make your life on the roof a whole lot safer.

Located in the heart of Wisconsin…. where a good days work is valued, the SnugHarness.com staff of experts never fall from the task. The staff delivers straight talk on what works best for you and then ships it fast. They want to keep you snug and safe.

If you’d like more information about this topic, or to schedule and interview with John Charles Steinmuller please contact us at SnugHarness.com 608-838-3300 a Division of Safety Plus Products Inc, 4123 Terminal Drive Suite 210, McFarland, WI 53558

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:13 AM | Comments (0)

Arthur Rutenberg Homes' Sales Exceed $7 million In June

The numbers buck the trend in Sarasota and Bradenton.

Sarasota, FL (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- As most builders in West Florida see their sales numbers plummet, M. Pete McNabb Inc., an independent franchise of Arthur Rutenberg Homes, is experiencing a boom in trade. At more than $7 million, reports show that in June, Arthur Rutenberg Homes for sale in Florida, specifically in Sarasota and Manatee counties are more than double what they have been averaging for the past two years.

Pete McNabb, franchise owner, acknowledges that many custom home builders in Tampa and other cities in the area are struggling at the moment, but says the trend is not affecting his business. "June's sales volume is the best we've posted since September 2005."

The growth of sales for M. Pete McNabb is attributed to many factors unique to this builder and the Sarasota and Manatee county market. Derek Nelson, president of M. Pete McNabb, however, points to the quality of homes the company constructs as the biggest factor driving the franchise's outstanding sales.

"The Arthur Rutenberg designs function better than any of the designs I have seen," Nelson said. "That coupled with our meticulous attention to detail has attributed to our success."

M. Pete McNabb Inc. has been building Arthur Rutenberg Homes since 1987. Since it began its affiliation with Arthur Rutenberg the Florida home builder has received numerous accolades from the company. It has received the coveted Builder of the Year award a record six times and has won the Gold Cup twice. The Gold Cup is presented to the franchise that delivers on critical success factors defined by customers, including courtesy of staff, service promptness, quality control and more.

"Arthur Rutenberg builders are known for their great customer service, so to win the Gold Cup twice was truly an honor," said Nelson. "Our entire staff makes it their goal to exceed our homeowners' expectations, step way out ahead of the competition, and to uphold the high standards set by Arthur Rutenberg himself more than 55 years ago."

For more information about Arthur Rutenberg Homes or M. Pete McNabb Inc., contact Tessa Madasz, vice president of sales, at (727) 536-5900, Ext. 231.

About Arthur Rutenberg Homes
Arthur Rutenberg Homes is the largest family of luxury-home builders in America. It was recently named the nation's fastest growing homebuilding company by Professional Builder magazine. The company's independently operated and owned franchises are located in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. Established in 1953, the company offers more than 80 award-winning architectural plans for luxury homes.

About M Pete McNabb Inc.
Established in 1987, M. Pete McNabb Inc. offers five fully furnished model homes for viewing in the communities of La Cantera at Lakewood Ranch, Legends Bay at IMG Academies, Winding River in Bradenton and Riviera Dunes in Palmetto. Potential homeowners are also encouraged to visit M. Pete McNabb's administrative offices and Arthur Rutenberg Homes' Interior Design Center located on Town Center Parkway in Lakewood Ranch, where homeowners can make all of their color selections in one convenient location including furniture and artwork.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:11 AM | Comments (0)

Asite and OpSource Announce Strategic Partnership to Deliver Software-as-a-Service Platform for the International Construction Industry

Scalability and Global Reach Key to Meeting Needs of the UK’s Leading SaaS Provider for Construction IT

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (Business Wire EON/PRWEB ) August 27, 2008 -- OpSource™, the leader in Web operations, today announced a strategic partnership with Asite Solutions, the provider of the leading global Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform for the construction industry. Asite will use OpSource On-Demand™ to support the delivery of their SaaS platform to an increasingly global audience. Asite joins a growing list of international companies selecting OpSource as their Web operations provider.

Asite delivers flexible construction IT solutions, including tools for collaboration, trading and sourcing for use by construction companies at every point in the supply chain. With its customers requiring an increasing amount of data storage, and with the company expanding geographically in Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the USA, Asite needed a company that could manage and provide dynamic scalability for its SaaS infrastructure. Asite selected OpSource for the scalability, reliability and 100 percent uptime necessary to deploy the company’s SaaS application to its growing customer base.

Nathan Doughty, COO of Asite, said, “Our relationship with OpSource pairs like-minded companies seeking to push the boundaries of innovation for SaaS application delivery and cloud computing, or ‘hardware-as-a-service’ infrastructure delivery. By partnering with OpSource, we can rapidly expand our SaaS platform to meet our global demand and focus more than ever on delivering innovation and the best possible customer experience.”

Treb Ryan, CEO of OpSource, said, “Asite was developing SaaS solutions even before they were being called SaaS. Selecting OpSource On-Demand will enable them to meet the demands of their client base as it grows – both geographically and in terms of the amount of data they work with – while also providing intercontinental redundancy and disaster recovery. We’re honored to have earned Asite’s trust as its Web operations provider.”

About OpSource On-Demand

A comprehensive, award-winning Web operations solution, OpSource On-Demand enables Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and Web companies to quickly and securely deliver their applications and services over the Web to consumers and businesses alike. Going far beyond full-featured managed hosting, it includes the application management, compliance and business services that are necessary for on-demand business success. OpSource On-Demand includes:

Technical Operations

* Best-in-class, scalable software, hardware and network infrastructure
* World-class data center facilities
* Redundant carrier class load balancing architecture
* In-depth 24x7 monitoring, security, and management procedures backed by SAS-70 Type II audits
* Built-in high availability solutions from simple clustering to wide-area Disaster Recovery Application Operations

Application Operations

* Data management
* Performance management, including multipoint user-experience monitoring
* Application Roll Out and Change Management
* Application optimization
* Compliant infrastructure, processes and procedures including: SAS 70 Type II audited, HIPAA and PCI DSS compliance and salesforce.com and WebEx certifications

Business Operations

* OpSource Billing™ - An end-to-end subscription management, metering and payment stand-alone solution, or as part of OpSource On-Demand
* OpSource Connect™ - A Web services infrastructure and integration toolset, for application integration in the "Cloud" and behind the corporate fire-wall
* OpSource End-User Support™ - 24x7 customer branded end-user support
* OpSource Analytics™ - A real-time application and customer usage information, and health of business analysis and reporting tool

About OpSource

OpSource™ delivers Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and Web applications for on-demand companies, with hundreds of applications, millions of users and billions of transactions supported daily. OpSource On-Demand™, the leading Web operations solution, is defining how Web-based software is delivered. By choosing OpSource as their Web application delivery partner, companies are freed from investing in and managing the complex and costly infrastructure and services necessary to deliver applications over the Web. They can instead focus their resources on developing, marketing and selling their applications and services. Further, by using OpSource Connect™ companies can leverage Web services such as OpSource Billing™, OpSource Analytics™ and OpSource End-User Support™ and integrate their applications with other SaaS applications over the Internet as well as with enterprise applications behind the corporate firewall. OpSource On-Demand is suitable for companies at any stage of growth, with any type of on-demand application. OpSource is the only company to offer Success-Based PricingSM, a unit-based pricing model that allows businesses to begin with a modest minimum commitment and scale expenses as revenues increase.

Headquartered in Santa Clara, CA, OpSource has Web application delivery centers in Virginia, London and Bangalore. For more information about OpSource, visit www.opsource.net.

OpSource, OpSource On-Demand and the OpSource logo are trademarks of OpSource, Inc. Success-Based Pricing is a service mark of OpSource, Inc. All other trademarks and company names mentioned are protected by their respective owners.

About Asite ABOS

Asite is a global leader in Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions for the construction and property industries, offering proven web-based software for sourcing, tendering, design collaboration, 3D and BIM Modelling, 3D Simulation, catalogue hosting and procurement.

Asite delivers their platform to more than 40,000 users supporting project delivery in every continent of the world. Asite is and continues to be the only SaaS vendor approved by the UK government via an OGC Framework agreement classified by the National Audit Office in the Top 10 frameworks for delivering real value to UK government.

Asite recently demonstrated its innovative technology by hosting the first ever Build London Live virtual design event using Asite’s cBIM technology to deliver real time online collaboration via the internet around building information models. More than 350 participants from teams representing four continents competed in a two day virtual design competition focusing on the virtual redevelopment of an East London waterside site.

Asite’s head office is in the City of London. For more information about the suite of services provided by Asite and for more information about the Asite Build London Live event, visit our website: www.asite.com.

Posted by Industrial-Manufacturing at 05:11 AM | Comments (0)

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 cre