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Phoenix to Host AISC's 2009 North American Steel Construction Conference
(Chicago, IL) — Phoenix will play host to more than 3,000 steel construction professionals this April during the 2009 North American Steel Construction Conference, presented by the American, Canadian, and Mexican Institutes of Steel Construction. NASCC: The Steel Conference will be held April 1-4, 2009 and feature presentations from top industry leaders, more than 80 technical sessions, short course educational programming, and extensive trade show exhibits featuring products and services ranging from engineering software to the latest fabrication equipment.
The conference is the premier educational event aimed at providing designers, steel fabricators, erectors, and detailers with practical information and the latest design and construction techniques. It's a once-a-year opportunity to learn the latest in design methodology, see the most innovative products, and meet industry leaders. The conference continues to grow each year; last year's attendance exceeded 3,700.
This year's Steel Conference kicks off with a potentially controversial session provocatively titled "Connection Design Responsibility: Is the Debate Over?" In the hour-long program, Charlie Carter, AISC's vice president of engineering and research, presents the findings of a joint task group formed by the Council of American Structural Engineers (CASE) and AISC. Kirk Harman from The Harman Group in Philadelphia and Glenn Bishop from LBYD in Birmingham join the debate on the merits of delegating or not delegating the work of connection design.
Another session expected to draw a lot interest is being presented by AISC Vice President, John Cross, on "Current Sales Forecasts and Outlook." This session will provide key market information for the remainder of 2009 with an in-depth look at specific market segments, such as health-care construction and educational facilities.
Other sessions that are anticipated to attract large crowds include: "The Wal-Mart Effect and Your Business" (a discussion of how to compete against the low-price leaders and to create more profitable jobs); Shankar Nair's presentation on "Skyscrapers—Past, Present and Future;" "Connections: The Last Bastion of Rational Design" by Bill Thornton; "CSD University" (a special series of presentations based on the training program that one of the country's most successful and innovative engineering firms uses for their new hires); "Who's Responsible When a Job Goes Bad" (a look at what can happen during a fast track, design-build project); "Specifying Camber—Rules of Thumb for Designers;" and "Introduction to Earthquake Engineering and Seismic Design."
For a complete list of the more than 80 sessions, please visit www.aisc.org/nascc.
The conference also offers attendees with the opportunity to tour Schuff International's fabrication shop. Schuff has one of the largest and most advanced facilities in the country and will give designers a good look at the technology being used to fabricate their projects today.
More information on The Steel Conference, including registration details and a full conference agenda, can be found online at www.aisc.org/nascc or by calling 312.670.2400.
About the American Institute of Steel Construction
The American Institute of Steel Construction, headquartered in Chicago, is a not-for-profit technical institute and trade association established in 1921 to serve the structural steel design community and construction industry. AISC's mission is to make structural steel the material of choice by being the leader in structural steel-related technical and market-building activities, including: specification and code development, research, education, technical assistance, quality certification, standardization, and market development. AISC has a long tradition of service to the steel construction industry of providing timely and reliable information.
HotelWorld Connects Industry Leaders and Opens New Doors in a 'New Economy'
Business Speed Dating, a 3-in-1 show and new opportunities draw participants to show
CLEVELAND—(FEBRUARY 2, 2009)— HotelWorld Expo & Conference returns to International Hospitality Week (IHW), March 1-4, 2009 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. HotelWorld is the first opportunity in 2009 for industry leaders to come together to exchange ideas, network, socialize and enhance their industry knowledge through stimulating educational programs, according to show officials. "Participating in International Hospitality Week provides our exhibitors and attendees with a unique opportunity to expand their new business opportunities to the nightclub, bar and restaurant segments through the Nightclub & Bar Convention and Trade Show and the International Restaurant Show," said Liz Crawford, Group Show Director for Questex Media Group. "Additionally, because the three shows are co-located, attendees who purchase an exhibit pass gain admission to all three shows. It's a great value with unlimited opportunities," she added.
This year, HotelWorld will introduce an exciting new program, Networking Express, utilizing a 'speed dating' format. This new product is designed to connect industry professionals interested in expanding their business associations. Attendees and exhibitors will have five minutes to exchange business cards, a handshake and elicit a future interest for connecting. MATCH programs within the hotel and hospitality industry have taken hold and creating an opportunity for MATCH business networking right at the show makes HotelWorld a one-stop business development venue.
For the second consecutive year, HotelWorld is delighted to be a partner of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association. "We are proud to be industry partners with International Hospitality Week and Questex Media Group. Las Vegas offers an outstanding venue following building and completion of gaming resorts and boutique properties for our industry leaders and giants," said Van V. Hefner, President and CEO of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association. "The designers and builders of these properties showcase established refinement and the new Las Vegas for tomorrow's visitors," added Heffner.
Other stimulating destinations located on the show floor will include the International Hospitality Design Center and Green World, an area dedicated to green products and services for the hospitality industry. "HotelWorld brings together several unique and exciting design components that focus on celebrating design excellence both on the show floor with the International Hospitality Design Center and Design Gallery," says Mary M. Malloy, Publisher of Hotel Design magazine. Extending the design components of HotelWorld is the Global Hospitality & Design Awards ceremony. Nearly 200 submissions were presented for consideration of these prestigious awards, which will be judged by guest judges and editors from Hotel Design magazine. "HotelWorld has also made a much-needed commitment to educate industry attendees to the benefits and path to going green. A dedicated exhibit section, GreenWorld , has been established for companies with green products and conference sessions regarding green topics," added Malloy.
One of the much anticipated conference sessions at HotelWorld will be Green Building in Hospitality, moderated by Marc Heisterkamp, of the U.S. Green Building Council, where green building and LEED initiatives and sustainability issues will be addressed.
Another compelling session will be Public Private Partnerships: A Viable Alternative for Development. With the challenges in this current economic environment, developers are looking for innovative and alternative ways to continue hotel development progress. This session may provide some real and viable answers to the hard questions developers now face in the new economy.
For lighter fare, attendees may sign up and see what it's like behind the action of an iconic Las Vegas hotel property through the Back-of-the-House tours which will explore four well-known Las Vegas hotels: Caesars Palace Hotel, Bellagio Resort & Casino, Mandalay Bay Hotel and the Venetian Resort & Casino.
All HotelWorld, Nightclub & Bar and International Restaurant Show registrations also receive the added value of an all-access pass to the hottest nightclubs in Las Vegas to 'conduct market research' on their own time.
Las Vegas is priced more competitively than it has been in many years and by coming to IHW, attendees can take advantage of one-stop shopping across the many segments of the hospitality industry. It's a great opportunity for this industry to be at the forefront of the new economy, do business and connect with customers and colleagues," added Crawford. For information on registration packages and pricing, visit: www.hotelworldexpo.com, www.ncbshow.com or www.nightclub.com.
About International Hospitality Week
Produced by Questex Media, International Hospitality Week was created in early 2007 and encompasses three specialized events: Nightclub & Bar Convention and Trade Show; International Restaurant Show, Las Vegas and HotelWorld Expo and Conference, which all stage under one roof. This mega hospitality event provides a platform for buyers and sellers to meet, connect and discover new business as it relates to all aspects of the vibrant hospitality industry – food, beverage and lodging.
About Questex Media
Questex Media Group, Inc. the owner and producer of International Hospitality Week, is a global, diversified business-to business integrated media and information provider that serves multiple industries including technology, telecommunications, beauty, spa, travel, hospitality, leisure, abilities, home entertainment, landscape design, building services and natural resources through a range of well-established, market-leading publications, events, interactive media, research, information and integrates marketing services. The company's media properties include more than 100 print and digital media publications, 45 conferences, tradeshows and events and a range of research, data and information products. The company's operations include more than 500 employees in offices throughout North America, South America, Asia and Europe.
The company's businesses are managed through operating companies including Questex Media Group and its six subsidiaries including Oxford Publishing, Inc. publisher and trade show producer serving the beverage and food industries.
Builders Name Cooper Lighting's Halo Brand the Leader in Lighting for the Tenth Consecutive Year
Peachtree City, Ga., January 26, 2009 — Cooper Lighting's Halo brand of recessed and track lighting continues to affirm itself as the industry leader by being named by Builder Magazine as the Brand Leader in lighting. Sweeping all four categories for the tenth consecutive year, Halo was awarded first place in the lighting categories of Brand Familiarity, Brand Used in Past 2 Years, Brand Used Most, and Quality.
"For over 50 years Halo has adapted to the needs of our customers in the recessed and track lighting market and continues to provide best in class features and benefits. Customers responded by again naming Halo the industry leader in quality and usage for the 10th year in a row," said Glenn Siegel, Director of Marketing and Product Management, Cooper Lighting. "Recognition by such highly read industry publications such as Builder, is a realization that Cooper Lighting continues its leadership in the commercial, industrial and residential lighting markets."
The Builder 2009 Brand Use Study by Readex Research, an independent research company, surveys in depth the brands builders know best, the ones they use the most, and the ones they rate the highest in quality.
For additional information on Cooper Lighting or Halo, visit www.cooperlighting.com or email TalkToUs@CooperIndustries.com.
About Cooper Lighting
Cooper Lighting, a subsidiary of Cooper Industries (NYSE: CBE), is the leading provider of innovative, high quality lighting fixtures and related products to worldwide commercial, industrial, residential and utility markets. For more information, visit www.cooperlighting.com.
About Cooper Industries
Cooper Industries, Ltd. (NYSE: CBE) is a global manufacturer with 2007 revenues of $5.9 billion, approximately 87% of which are from electrical products. Founded in 1833, Cooper's sustained level of success is attributable to a constant focus on innovation, evolving business practices while maintaining the highest ethical standards, and meeting customer needs. The Company has eight operating divisions with leading market share positions and world-class products and brands. Cooper, which has more than 31,500 employees and manufacturing facilities in 23 countries as of 2007, is incorporated in Bermuda with administrative headquarters in Houston, TX. For more information, visit the website at www.cooperindustries.com.
 Glenn Siegel, Director of Marketing and Product Management for Cooper Lighting, is presented with the Brand Leader Award from Builder Magazine's Clare Stefan at the 2009 International Builders' Show in Las Vegas held January 20-23.
Kohler and Artisan Group Develop Specialty Dealer Program Bringing Quality to the Marketplace
North America's premier stone fabricators exclusively offer KOHLER and STERLING kitchen products
KOHLER, Wis. — Kohler Co., a global leader in kitchen and bath design and technology, recently developed a specialty dealer program with Artisan Group, a nationwide network of premier stone and granite fabricators.
"Combining two leading brands—Kohler and Artisan Group—fills a need in the marketplace that is currently underserved," said Mally Henne, channel manager for kitchen products, Kohler Co. "Kohler's wholesale channel is ready to connect and build business in this important surface market. This program ensures customers receive high quality products from recognized brands within their respective industries. It's a win-win for everyone involved."
In a first-of-its-kind program for Kohler, as a Registered Specialty Dealer, the Artisan Group will have access to KOHLER and STERLING brand kitchen sinks and KOHLER kitchen faucets, aligning with the manufacturer's expansive network of national and regional plumbing wholesalers. Additionally, Artisan Group showrooms will be equipped with displays and product information on kitchen sinks and faucets so customers better understand their choices to complement countertop surfaces.
Kohler will offer special training to countertop sales associates, and provide the necessary sales tools to demonstrate a real-life look at the myriad options available in kitchen sinks and faucets. Kohler offers customers a range of choices not typically available in this segment. Kohler has many options for color, design and materials, including KOHLER Cast Iron, stainless steel and STERLING stainless steel.
"This program underscores the Kohler commitment to longstanding quality. Both the superior stone surfaces of Artisan Group and KOHLER and STERLING products offer homeowners the highest of quality in the industry," added Henne.
Artisan Group™ is the premier network of stone fabricators in North America. Its extensive network allows the organization to offer the world's best granite from the best sources around the globe. Utilizing the most technically advanced, automated shops in the industry, highly skilled craftsmen ensure that each and every installation meets exacting standards. From classic to exotic, it offers the most extensive array of color choices in the industry, and with short lead times and competitive pricing, Artisan Group granite countertops are closer than one might expect.
Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wis., Kohler Co. is one of America's oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a global leader in the manufacture of kitchen and bath products, engines and power generation systems, cabinetry, tile and home interiors, and an international host to award-winning hospitality and world-class golf destinations.
Kimball Distributing Inaugurates Viking Cooking School at Its Kitchen Showroom
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah—Kimball Distributing Inc., a leading distributor of high quality kitchen appliances, celebrated the opening of its brand new Viking Cooking School with a pair of events at its Salt Lake City showroom last week.
Kimball hosted a public open house on Saturday, January 24. That event was preceded by a sneak preview grand opening celebration for invited guests on Friday, January 23. Approximately 150 guests attended the combined events.
Both events featured tours of Kimball's brand new Viking Cooking School facility, which is equipped with high-performance Viking appliances, cookware and cutlery. Visitors also enjoyed cooking demonstrations and sampled recipes created by Viking's professional chefs.
Viking Cooking School is the nation's premiere hands-on culinary environment. Novice and expert alike can find classes and events to explore the culinary arts and take their cooking skills to the next level.
Classes are taught using recipes created by professional chefs. All recipes used in the classes are designed to be successfully recreated at home.
The new Viking Cooking School offers a variety of subjects. Classes range from gourmet specialties to pizzas and pasta; from ethnic cuisines to grilling, sauces and desserts. Single-subject as well as series classes are offered. A copy of the first quarter 2009 course catalog may be obtained by calling Kimball Distributing at 801-464-0113.
"What a delight to celebrate the launch of our new Viking Cooking School with so many guests," said Cathie Mooers, culinary director at Kimball Distributing. "We are thrilled to bring this interactive, educational culinary experience to the region. Viking continues to set the standard for excellence and innovation in kitchen appliances."
Kimball Distributing is the exclusive provider of Viking products for the Rocky Mountain region, with showrooms in Salt Lake City and Denver.
About Kimball Distributing
Kimball Distributing, a division of Kimball Electronics since 1992, distributes high-end appliances to retail kitchen showrooms throughout Colorado, Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Kimball Distributing showrooms display a wide variety of stylish and functional appliances in live kitchen settings, enabling designers and homeowners to research and plan their kitchens and outdoor culinary spaces. www.kimballdistributing.com
About Viking Cooking School
Developed by parent company Viking Range Corporation, Viking Cooking School offers culinary enthusiasts the opportunity to fuel their passion for cooking and to experience the full Viking product line in action. In 2007, more than 77,000 students took advantage of the opportunity to "test drive" Viking appliances in the company's cooking classes, making it the country's largest provider of cooking classes for the recreational cook. Viking remains committed to providing its customers with the inspiration, tools and knowledge needed to achieve a unique epicurean experience. www.vikingcookingschool.com
Source Four Sponsors "We Care" Event in Association with Boys and Girls Club of Metro Denver
DENVER, Colo. — Source Four Inc., a regional provider of distinctive commercial furnishings, sponsored and volunteered at 2008's We Care event. We Care is a national program hosted by furnishings designer and manufacturer Herman Miller and Workplace Resource, a Herman Miller dealer in Denver, in association with the Boys and Girls Club of America.
Each December, volunteers from the design and architecture communities in more than 20 cities across the U.S. and Canada volunteer at We Care events to support local Boys and Girls Clubs.
The events provide children the opportunity to make and give seasonal gifts that they might not otherwise be able to afford.
At this December's event in Denver, the craft-making was complemented by face painters, gift wrapping, dinner and a visit from Santa Claus, who presented hats and gloves to each child. Some 150 local children participated.
"Source Four has long made giving back to our communities a priority," said Ange Ard, interior designer with Source Four. "We Care is a wonderful event, and we are so proud to have participated."
We Care 2008 took place at the Wilfley Branch of the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Denver on December 4. Across the U.S. and Canada, approximately 4,500 children participated in We Care days of craft-making and creativity in 2008.
About Source Four
Source Four Inc. is the region's leading provider of commercial furnishings for healthcare, education, hospitality and corporate environments, providing unmatched resources to designers, dealers and their clients. Source Four exclusively represents products manufactured for a people-focused, performance-oriented world. The company celebrated its 25th year in business in 2008. Learn more at SourceFour.com.
Roger Thomas of Wynn Design and Development to Be Honored as Design Icon at February Las Vegas Market
(LAS VEGAS)—Jan. 6, 2009—World Market Center Las Vegas will honor Roger Thomas of Wynn Design and Development as a "Design Icon" on Thursday, February 12 during the Winter 2009 Las Vegas Market.
In the exclusive Las Vegas Market Design Icon Lecture Series, design legends share their stories and experiences in order to inspire future designers. Thomas joins the ranks of Design Icon honorees named by World Market Center Las Vegas including Vladmir Kagan and Larry Laslo.
Robert Maricich, President and Chief Executive Officer of World Market Center Las Vegas, said Thomas is an ideal choice for the Design Icon honor. "Roger is an outstanding and inspirational individual. We admire his talent and his generosity in sharing his expertise and resources with the design community. We established the Design Icon program to motivate and inspire future leaders. Roger Thomas is a singular and unique individual in the world of design and we are honored to present him with this award. His stellar talents in both hospitality design and home furnishings design are truly unmatched."
Thomas created the interiors of Wynn Las Vegas and most recently led the interior design of Wynn Macau, which opened to the public September 5, 2006. Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, opened on December 22, 2008, along with Wynn Diamond Macau, which will open January 2010, also bear his stamp. Thomas designed the interiors of properties including the Golden Nugget hotels in Las Vegas and Laughlin and the Mirage Resort, Treasure Island and Bellagio Resort on the Las Vegas strip.
Honors are nothing new to the noted design legend, whose career spans nearly 40 years. (He started his career as an apprentice designer while still in his teens.) Elected to the Hospitality Design Platinum Circle in 2005, Thomas received a Lifetime Achievement award from the Network of Executive Women in Hospitality. In 2007, Thomas was listed in Architectural Digest's AD 100.
The Roger Thomas Collection was inaugurated in 2006 with signature designs for APF Munn Master Framemakers. The Collection was expanded in 2007 with furniture for Edward Ferrell + Lewis Mittman and designs for The Natural Carpet Company and in 2008 with green sustainable lighting for Niedermaier and outdoor furnishings for Veneman.
An avid supporter of the arts, Thomas is the founder of the Bank of America Nevada Fine Art Collection, the largest art collection in a financial institution in Nevada. He served on the boards of the Nevada Museum of Fine Arts, Neon Museum in Las Vegas, Nevada Institute for Contemporary Art, Nevada Ballet Theater and the Wheelwright Museum Santa Fe, New Mexico. He is currently a Trustee of the Las Vegas Art Museum and a member of the Las Vegas Performing Arts Center Foundation Board. Thomas also serves as a Trustee of DIFFA (Design Industries Foundation Fighting Aids).
Additionally, he has taken an active role in the arts architecture of the city, county and state throughout his storied professional career. He served on the Nevada Arts Council, a gubernatorial appointment; and on the McCarran Airport Arts Advisory Committee; the Clark County Government Center Architect Selection Committee; the Clark County Federal Courthouse Architect Selection Committee and the Las Vegas Performing Arts Center Architect Selection Committee.
Thomas is a graduate of Interlochen Arts Academy and The School of the Museum of Fine Art in Boston. He received a BFA in Art History from Tufts University. His work has been published in leading journals, including Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Interiors and Hospitality Design.
The Winter 2009 Las Vegas Market is scheduled for Feb. 9 - 13, 2009 at World Market Center Las Vegas. Attendees can register and reserve discounted rooms online now at www.LasVegasMarket.com.
About World Market Center Las Vegas
World Market Center Las Vegas is an integrated home and hospitality contract furnishings showroom and trade complex in Las Vegas. With the opening of Building C, World Market Center now stands at more than five million square feet of space, exceeding the size of any trade merchandise mart in the United States. When fully built, at $3 billion, 12 million square feet and 8 buildings, World Market Center will be the largest trade show complex in the world. The state-of-the-art campus showcases furniture, decorative accessories, gift, lighting, area rugs, home textile and related segments, as well as the Las Vegas Design Center (LVDC), open year-round.
Source Four Chocolate Tasting Celebration a Delicious Success
Food Network's Keegan Gerhard Delights Guests
DENVER, Colo. — Source Four Inc., a regional provider of distinctive commercial furnishings, celebrated its 25th anniversary with a chocolate tasting hosted by chef Keegan Gerhard, owner of Denver's newest dessert bar, D Bar, and host of the weekly TV show Food Network Challenge.
The tasting featured an assortment of gourmet chocolates in a variety of applications — including bon bons, dips, spherified chocolate liqueur and more. The event, which took place this month at the Source Four showroom on Kalamath Street in Denver, also included live music and appetizers.
In addition to providing the savory nibbles and the chocolate, chef Keegan Gerhard was on hand throughout the tasting to share his expertise with guests. He created a solid chocolate sculpture to capture the cultural essence of Source Four. Gerhard also delighted guests with custom chocolates in the shapes of the four icons that comprise Source Four's logo.
The event was attended by some 275 guests, including members of the local architectural and design community, as well as with executives from Source Four's suppliers from Norway, Germany, Italy, China and the U.S.
Gerhard was named one of the nation's top 10 pastry chefs of 2002 and 2004 by both Chocolatier and Pastry Art & Design magazines. He has been featured numerous times on the Discovery Channel's Great Chefs of America, as well as the Food Network and CNN. He organizes and serves as M.C. for the "The National Pastry Team Championships" and "The World Pastry Team Championships" in Las Vegas, which is televised on the Food Network.
D Bar, which Gerhard opened this spring with his wife, pastry chef Lisa Bailey, has received enthusiastic critical and fan reviews.
"What sweeter way to celebrate Source Four's 25th anniversary than with a chocolate tasting," said Jeff Riley, Source Four founder and president. "Chef Gerhard delivered an evening of unique gourmet delights—perfect for celebrating our 25 years of dedication to providing unique commercial furnishing solutions for designers, dealers and their clients."
About Source Four
Source Four Inc. is the region's leading provider of commercial furnishings for healthcare, education, hospitality and corporate environments, providing unmatched resources to designers, dealers and their clients. Source Four exclusively represents products manufactured for a people-focused, performance-oriented world. The company celebrates its 25th year in business in 2008. Learn more at SourceFour.com.
Kimball Distributing Introduces Viking Cooking School at Its Salt Lake City Kitchen Showroom
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah—Kimball Distributing Inc., a leading distributor of high quality kitchen appliances, will open a Viking Cooking School at its Salt Lake City showroom in January 2009.
Viking Cooking School is the nation's premiere hands-on culinary environment. The novice and expert cook alike can find classes and events to explore their love of all things food and take their cooking skills to the next level.
The Viking Cooking School at Kimball Distributing's kitchen showroom is equipped with high-performance Viking appliances, cookware and cutlery. Classes are taught using recipes created by professionally-trained chefs. All recipes used in the classes are designed to be successfully recreated at home.
"Kimball Distributing is an important Viking major appliance distributor and a longtime distributor in the Salt Lake City area. By opening a Viking Cooking School in conjunction with Kimball, we are pleased to be able to offer the complete Viking experience to customers in the Salt Lake City area," said Joe Sherman, president and CEO, Viking Culinary Group.
The new Viking Cooking School will offer a variety of subjects. Classes range from gourmet specialties to pizzas and pasta; from ethnic cuisines to grilling, sauces and desserts. Single-subject as well as series classes will be available.
A copy of the first quarter 2009 course catalog may be obtained by calling Kimball Distributing at 801-466-0569 or 801-464-0113.
"Viking continues to set the standard for excellence and innovation in kitchen appliances. We are thrilled to bring the interactive, educational experience of Viking Cooking School to the region," said Kim Kimball, president of Kimball Distributing. "We know our students will appreciate the opportunity to explore new culinary topics and techniques while making new friends and enjoying the total Viking experience."
Kimball Distributing is the exclusive provider of Viking products for the Rocky Mountain region, with showrooms in Salt Lake City and Denver.
About Kimball Distributing
Kimball Distributing, a division of Kimball Electronics since 1992, distributes high-end appliances to retail kitchen showrooms throughout Colorado, Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Kimball Distributing showrooms display a wide variety of stylish and functional appliances in live kitchen settings, enabling designers and homeowners to research and plan their kitchens and outdoor culinary spaces. www.kimballdistributing.com
About Viking Cooking School
Developed by parent company Viking Range Corporation, Viking Cooking School offers culinary enthusiasts the opportunity to fuel their passion for cooking and to experience the full Viking product line in action. In 2007, more than 77,000 students took advantage of the opportunity to "test drive" Viking appliances in the company's cooking classes, making it the country's largest provider of cooking classes for the recreational cook. Viking remains committed to providing its customers with the inspiration, tools and knowledge needed to achieve a unique epicurean experience. www.vikingcookingschool.com
Ferguson Showrooms Kick Off National Green Month
NEWPORT NEWS, VA — Ferguson, the countrys largest wholesale distributor of plumbing supplies, launches "National Green Month," which will run the entire month of January, nationwide. The program highlights Fergusons extensive offering of green products, as well as Fergusons showroom consultants in-depth product knowledge.
"Our objective is to be the premier provider of green solutions," said Gail Kaufman, Wolseley North Americas director of green business and customer programs. "Through our expansive product offerings, to our industry expertise, our associates are committed to helping customers make small steps to help the environment."
Ferguson sells a broad range of green products across several categories including: fixtures, faucets, water heaters and appliances. The green awareness program was developed, in part, from in-depth insights from over 300 Ferguson associates, who provided guidance on what was needed to really satisfy the companys customers need for green products. A critical part of the program focuses on training; to date over 900 showroom associates are trained to prepare for the companys "National Green Month." The focus is on customer education as well as special labeling on products that allow consumers to easily identify energy efficient options such as high efficiency toilets, which can reduce a homeowners water consumption by up to 22,000 gallons annually when compared with traditional 3.5 gallon per flush toilets.
Earlier this year the Environmental Protection Agency recognized Ferguson as its first Retail and Distributor WaterSense Partner of the Year. Ferguson received the award, in part for their efforts to highlight the new PROFLO high efficiency toilets and other water saving devices.
"Our showroom consultants are committed to providing plumbing, lighting and appliance expertise to builders, remodelers, designers, plumbers, and homeowners," said Sam Rose, Wolseley North America showroom manager. "Our consultants can help customers make simple adjustments – such as replacing a showerhead – which can result in big savings for themselves and the environment."
Fergusons Scottsdale showroom is located at 8340 East Raintree Drive, Building A-1, and can be reached at 480-556-0103.
Ferguson
Headquartered in Newport News, Va., Ferguson is the country's largest wholesale distributor of plumbing supplies; pipes, valves and fittings; heating and cooling equipment; waterworks; mechanical and industrial; bathrooms and appliances; tools and safety equipment; and fire protection products. Ferguson has sales of $11.2 billion and over 19,000 associates in approximately 1,400 service centers located in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Mexico and the Caribbean. For more information, visit www.ferguson.com.
Ferguson is part of Wolseley plc, the worlds largest specialist trade distributor of plumbing and heating products to professional contractors and a leading supplier of building materials in North America, the UK and Continental Europe. Group revenues for the year ended July 31, 2008, were approximately $33.1 billion. Wolseley has approximately 74,000 employees operating in 27 countries. Wolseley is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: WOS) and is in the FTSE 100 index of listed companies. For more information, visit www.wolseley.com.
New Site Offers Homeowners a Clearinghouse of Green Remodeling Information
Dec. 8, 2008, Des Plaines, Ill. — The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), announces the launch of a new website dedicated to green remodeling, www.greenremodeling.org.
Greenremodeling.org is designed to be a clearinghouse of information on green remodeling for both homeowners and trades people. Since the development of fits education programs, NARI has collected a library of information on green remodeling. The need to share this information with homeowners became apparent through the many inquires about green remodeling that have come into NARI Headquarters.
Amassing all of the green remodeling knowledge we've collected over the past several years and making it available to everyone online was an enormous endeavor," said NARI President Renée Rewiski.
What is Green Remodeling?
It's an all-encompassing approach that emphasizes making a home healthy, comfortable, and efficient. Included are issues like indoor air quality, energy conservation, resource conservation, reduced material waste, and the use of products that are better for the environment (and for people).
Why go green in a remodel?
It's easier on the earth, it lowers costs, and it provides a healthier home in which to live. According to the Sustainable Building Industry Council (SBIC), housing alone consumes 20% of America's energy. Homeowners who choose to remodel green can lower their energy consumption by 30-50%. It's widely agreed that forests produce 40% of Earth's oxygen, and that building supplies use 25% of its forests. Remodeling green by incorporating recycled materials or sustainable species will help homeowners to tread more lightly on Earth's natural resources.
Green remodeling has increased in popularity as homeowners consider health issues, skyrocketing energy costs and Earth's natural resources. More than 15 million Americans are estimated to have asthma, including one-in-13 school-age children, and more than 28 million Americans suffer from hay fever and other allergies, all of which are aggravated by poor indoor air quality.
Overall green remodeling proves to be very beneficial for homeowners. It:
- Reduces operating costs in the home by increasing efficiency
- Conserves natural resources
- Increases the value of the home
- Improves indoor air quality and in turn, overall health
- Reduces waste
- Reduces emissions costs
- Increases productivity of occupants
- Improves quality of life
Greenremodeling.org details many ways to implement green into the home including:
- Non-toxic paints and sealants
- Programmable thermostats
- Energy efficient appliances
- Natural flooring
- Local building materials
- Natural fiber rugs and fabrics
- Recycled material roof shingles and tiles
- Energy efficient lighting
- Insulated hot water pipes
- Tankless water heaters
- Quality insulation
- Native plants for landscaping
NARI is a professional association whose members voluntarily subscribe to a strict code of ethics. Consumers may wish to search www.greenremodeling.org for remodelers certified as a Green Certified Professional (GCP) or www.RemodelToday.com to find a qualified remodeling professional who is a member of NARI.
Consumers can also call the NARI National hotline at 800-611-NARI and request a free copy of NARI's brochure, "How to Select a Remodeling Professional."
The new greenremodeling.org Web site was designed and built by AmericanEagle.com in Park Ridge, Illinois. The selected vendor was chosen for its vast expertise and experience with association Web sites, as well as commercial sites demonstrating heavy consumer traffic.
Erecting Canned Foods Can Demolish Hunger
Canstruction Design/Build Competition to Aid St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance
Phoenix, Ariz. — The Society for Marketing Professional Services Arizona chapter, under the auspices of the Society for Design Administration (SDA), will host its 3rd annual Canstruction® competition Feb. 14–21, 2009 at Fiesta Mall in Mesa. Canstruction® combines the competitive spirit of a design/build competition with a unique way to help feed the hungry. Competing teams, led by architects, engineers and contactors, showcase their talents by designing and building giant structures made entirely out of canned foods.
Teams have 12 hours to construct their structures, which will be on display for the public to see at Fiesta Mall Feb.14–21.
Awards will be given for "Best Use of Labels," "Best Meal," "Structural Ingenuity," "Juror's Favorite" and "People's Choice." Winners from the local competitions around the nation will compete in the national competition through a slide photography submission.
At the close of the exhibition, all of the canned food used to create the structures will be donated to St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance.
Visit www.smpsarizona.org/canstruction for more details and to register a team for the event.
The Society for Marketing Professional Services (www.smps.org) was created in 1973 by a small group of professional services firm leaders who recognized the need to sharpen skills, pool resources and work together to create business opportunities. Today, SMPS represents a dynamic network of over 6,900 marketing and business development professionals from architectural, engineering, planning, interior design, construction and specialty consulting firms located throughout the United States and Canada. The Society and its 53 chapters benefit from the support of 3,250 design and building firms, encompassing 80 percent of the Engineering News-Record Top 500 Design Firms and Top 400 Contractors. The mission of SMPS is to be the premier source of education and information for marketers of professional services in the built and natural environments.
St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance (www.FirstFoodBank.org), the world's first food bank, is a non-sectarian, nonprofit organization that alleviates hunger by efficiently gathering and distributing food to 675 sites that serve the hungry. Serving 13 of Arizona's 15 counties, the organization is committed to volunteerism, building community relationships and improving the quality of life for Arizonanans in need. During Fiscal Year 2006-2007, the Food Bank distributed 51.5 million pounds of food to familiar and individuals, provided enough food for 200,000 meals every day, and garnered more than 230,000 volunteer service hours.
Canstruction® (www.canstruction.org) is a design/build competition showcasing the talents of design and construction industry professionals and students they mentor. At events held around the world, teams are given just 12 hours to defy expectations, logic, and gravity as they build fantastic sculptures from thousands of cans of food. Driven by the knowledge that their structures will change lives – by lifting the spirits of those in need, by raising public awareness, and most importantly, by filling the shelves of local food banks – dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to bring their creations to life. The following day, the super-sized masterpieces are judged in a variety of categories as these unconventional art exhibits are opened to the public, the cost of admission – just one can of food.
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