“FLYING CAR” SOARS THROUGH FLIGHT TESTING

Transition® Roadable Aircraft Moves on to Next Stage of Development

Woburn, MA – June 3, 2009: Terrafugia, Inc. has successfully completed the flight testing program designed for its Transition® Roadable Aircraft Proof of Concept. Having been dubbed “The Flying Car”, the Transition® completed its historic first flight on March 5, 2009 with 27 additional flights completed over the next several weeks.

The successful completion of flight-testing with the Proof of Concept concludes the first stage of a four stage process to bring the Transition® into production. Work is underway on Stage 2, the Beta Prototype. First delivery is expected in 2011.

The Proof of Concept vehicle is the first and only Transition® to be built thus far. It has now achieved its goals by demonstrating driving, flying, and automated transformation between the two in one integrated aircraft. The flights conducted a plan set specifically for the Transition®: characteristics such as handling, performance, and take-off and landing, stability and stall were evaluated. B-Roll footage is available of representative flights. The flight-testing program demonstrated the safety of the vehicle in the air while identifying modifications that will be incorporated into the next Transition® model to be built, the Beta Prototype.

Test Pilot Colonel (Retired) Phil Meteer had a positive review of flying the POC: “I would like to keep flying this Proof of Concept vehicle, but it makes sense to move on to the Beta Prototype.”

Categorized as a Light Sport Aircraft, the Transition® requires a Sport Pilot certificate to fly. It is a two-seat aircraft designed to take off and land at local airports and drive on any road. Transforming from plane to car takes the pilot less than 30 seconds. The Transition® will cruise up to 450 miles at over 115 mph, will drive at highway speeds on the road, and fits in a standard household garage. The vehicle has front wheel drive on the road and a propeller for flight. Both modes are powered by unleaded automotive gasoline. By giving pilots a convenient ground transportation option, the Transition® reduces the cost, inconvenience, and weather sensitivity of personal aviation. It also increases safety by incorporating automotive crash structures and allowing pilots to drive under bad weather. Refundable airframe reservations are currently being accepted.

Terrafugia (ter-ra-FOO-gee-ah), based in Woburn, MA, is comprised of a team of award-winning engineers who have been advancing the state of personal aircraft since 2006. Founded by five pilots who are graduates of MIT and supported by a world-class network of advisors and private investors, Terrafugia’s mission is the innovative expansion of personal mobility. "Terrafugia" is Latin for "escape from land."

Terrafugia would like to acknowledge and thank its corporate sponsors: Ansys, Nor-Tech, SolidWorks Corporation, and CableOrganizer.com. Additionally, the following business partners have contributed to a successful flight testing program by furnishing equipment and services: SpaceAge Controls, Garmin International, Dynon Avionics, CO Guardian, David Clark Company, Bose Corporation, Telex Communications, Aloft Technologies, Icom Inc., JH Audio, and Air Graphics LLC.

For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Richard Gersh at Terrafugia +1-781-491-0812, visit www.terrafugia.com, or e-mail: press@terrafugia.com Images and broadcast-quality video of flight testing may be obtained by e-mailing press@terrafugia.com

Metro 1 Green Building Resource Center 07.16.09

With the ever-increasing demand for a more transparent understanding of what exactly it means to be “green” Metro 1 Properties has created a space designed and dedicated to promoting green services, products, practices and principles. The space, also known as the Metro 1 Green Building Resource Center, is a place where the community can learn about the many facets of the green building industry in one cohesive environment. This includes a space designated for companies to showcase eco-friendly products and services in the hopes that it will increase and stimulate green business locally, regionally and nationally. And perhaps the best part is that it does not cost a penny to get involved, whether one wants stop by for a visit to learn about green building, or for the company that wishes to exhibit products and services. The only catch is that product and service providers must pass a screening test to ensure that the products in the center are in fact sustainable, eco-friendly and “green” which ultimately upholds the integrity of the center and the products and services housed within.

In addition to offering a platform for green businesses to promote goods and services, the resource center offers a myriad of training programs and seminars. From LEED® training courses designed to help students pass the challenging series of LEED® exams to educating consumers on carbon offsetting, the center aims to provide the community the information, tools, and resources needed to encourage green building and sustainable practices. And while the GBRC is within the office of Metro 1 Properties, a commercial firm focused on sustainable real estate solutions, it has been built mostly on volunteer efforts from the Metro 1 staff, interns and funding from the firm. In today’s real estate market it is hard for one to imagine many boutique firms, such as Metro 1 Properties, managing to stay in business much less take on the additional responsibility of funding a highly ambitious project such as the GBRC. As unlikely of a find it may be, the President and CEO of Metro 1 Properties, Tony Cho, thinks it is a wise investment, and one that must take place today not when the real estate market corrects itself – which could be years from now.

Promoting the green building agenda is a top priority on this firm’s list, even if that means investing countless hours of labor, time and dollars to make it happen. The staff at Metro 1 has tirelessly donated significant amounts of time to organize community events, get involved in green committees throughout South Florida, and promote green ideas and programs. Though there may not be monetary gain now, nor in the near future, the team at the GBRC have a collective understanding that all of their efforts are for the greater good, which is the promotion sustainable initiatives. Miami is, unfortunately, years behind other markets such as Chicago, Houston and San Francisco. It takes true dedication and passion to promote a relatively new industry, and in South Florida the team at Metro 1 have all committed to promoting a collective awareness with regard to green building.

It’s been a slow, but steady start for the Green Building Resource Center as it aims to seek support in the form of grant funding, membership and sponsorship dollars, and programming revenues. Considering the project is relatively new it has received an outpouring of support in the form of in-kind donations from companies such as Alterna Corp, which donated dual-flush toilets and Xcel dryer, who provided the GBRC with high-efficiency hand-dryers. Other donations include sustainable furniture from Project Import Export, Green Earth Beverage Systems bottle less water cooler and Honeywell’s line of efficient thermostats. Sponsors have included CFS MilliCare, a provider for sustainable commercial flooring solutions. Coverings Etc. has graciously donated materials from their Eco-Coverings line for the build-out of the resource bar designed by Casa Conde Design Consultants. The Resource Bar will provide a place for visitors to research and download information on all the green products and services within the center in addition to green building best practices and other related information.

One of the strengths of the GBRC is pairing up those in the business of green with consumers, property owners and others interested in simply learning more about the options out there when it comes to green building. Most recently, the GBRC hosted the EcoChamber and Pure Energy Radio launch party where over 200 attendees had an opportunity to check out the infancy stages of the GBRC. The GBRC will be hosting a large number of events and programming throughout the remainder of the year, including a LEED® Technical Review of Green Associate requirements on August, and seminars on water and energy efficiency throughout July and August. The GBRC will also be hosting a fundraiser “Earth is Art,” on August 22^nd for the Life is Art organization, a non-profit with a mission to promote and support the artistic and creative communities in Miami and beyond.

All in all the GBRC is getting a lot of great support, but it needs more! If you are interested in learning more about the Metro 1 Green Building Resource Center, getting involved, donating or attending a program or event please visit www.metro1gbrc.com or call 305.571.9991. Alternatively you can email the team at info@metro1gbrc.com who will be more than happy to assist you.

MiaGreen Expo & Conference: Miami Beach June 2009

By: Susie Glass, LEED AP (sglass@metro1properties.com )

The first annual MiaGreen Expo & Conference kicked off this past June 11^th and 12^th, 2009 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The event attracted a sizeable crowd of approximately 2,500 attendees who were eager to learn more about the green building industry. The exhibit hall boasted over 120 American and foreign firms, launching and showcasing a wide variety of innovative products and services for major fields within the green and sustainable professional arenas. Attendees also participated in twenty major conferences and panels, that included topics from “How To Be Green & Profitable,” to “Energy, Water & The Environment.” A special eight-hour LEED V3 Technical Review and Exam Preparation course was also offered, in addition to the two main opening sessions, which included a panel from the UK Trade & Investment Group and Skanska USA.

The Expo & Conference offered attendees and exhibitors an additional opportunity to establish and strengthen business relationships during a special VIP cocktail networking reception. The attendees represented the fields of architectural design and engineering, building and construction, real estate, environmental specialists, recycling, distribution and professional services and consulting industries. The official summer meeting of the National Green Energy Council Board of Directors was held during the conference. The organization launched its Green Job Corp Program, with a record number of students signing up for the courses, which included topics such as “Sustainability 101.” The National Green Energy Council is an educational nonprofit organization committed to enlightening children and leaders alike about environmental stewardship and renewable energy in order to save our planet for future generations.

Being the fist of its kind with, the MiaGreen Expo & Conference successfully brought together a myriad of green and sustainable businesses and service providers unparalleled by any other event in South Florida. Attendees could sample water from machines that condensed water from air, or learn about recycling programs available in the region. If an attendee needed a quick break, he or she could relax in one of the sustainable furniture lounges provided by South Florida’s very own Project Import Export, also known as PIE, (www.pie-studio.com). PIE studio is an award winning green design company that focuses on architecture, interiors and furniture creating a healthier environment.  Their work has been added to the permanent collection to the Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum -Smithsonian Institution in New York City.

Innovative exhibits and installations, such as the work of Bamboo Barry, the largest custom bamboo builder in North America, inspired and impressed attendees to use bamboo (a renewable resource) in non-traditional and creative ways.  It simply would not have been a South Beach event if there was not some element of beauty, style and fashion incorporated.  Those that arrived to the MiaGreen Expo & Conference early enough for the ribbon cutting ceremony caught a glimpse of gorgeous models dressed in haute recycled couture courtesy of Green Art USA. These amazing designs were all the rage as flocks of attendees rushed to snap photos with the beauties, a creation of Luis Valenzuela, fashionista and founder of Green Art USA, whose motto is ‘more art, less waste.’ Valenzuela repurposed old maps and trash bags to create one-of-a-kind designs that can be worn by just about anyone. Other exhibitors included those from nonprofit and government sectors, such as the Miami Office of Sustainable Initiatives and the United States Green Building Council South Florida Chapter. Both organizations exhibited MiaGreen Expo & Conference with on-site staff to answer any questions the public may have had about green building and sustainable initiatives in Miami and the surrounding area.

According to Jose Garcia-Pineyro, President and Executive Director for MiaGreen, “Our upcoming edition will again be serving the South Florida region, as a major market in the US. This time we will also be focusing on making MiaGreen 2010 a major convention that will bring together professionals, experts, businessmen, educators, governmental authorities and suppliers from the entire western hemisphere as well as Europe, to Miami, the Business Capital of the Americas!”

The 2^nd edition of the Mia Green Expo and Conference is slated for February 25^th and 26^th, 2010 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Branded as the GREEN Convention of the Americas, the event will expand its educational programs, trade sessions and exhibition opportunities to host participants from the entire western hemisphere and Europe. For more information on the MiaGreen Conference and Expo please contact Hector Hernandez at 305.412.EXPO or visit www.miagreen.com.

Eco Chamber Set to Launch

With government and private funding and investment, the green business sector is now a force unto itself. Now, one Miami entrepreneur with a unique vision takes an old idea and transforms it to help businesses worldwide.  The first chambers of commerce were founded in 1599 in continental Europe.  Today, thousands of chambers worldwide serve millions of business members for the following purposes:

• Creating a strong local economy
• Promoting the community
• Providing networking opportunities
• Speaking with government on behalf of business
• Political action, such as supporting pro-business candidates for office

The Eco Chamber is a new type of chamber to help promote sustainable business.  Founded by Tia Diaz-Balart, a partner in a successful marketing firm and long-time community activist with several non-profit organizations, the Eco Chamber’s mission is “to serve our members through advocating, promoting and being a resource for sustainable practices on a local, national and global level. This will improve not only our environment, but also our economy and quality of living as a whole.” (read complete mission statement).

Consumer Environmental Purchases Hold Steady in Down Economy

From http://www.coneinc.com/content2032

Despite the dire state of the economy, 34 percent of American consumers indicate they are more likely to buy environmentally responsible products today, and another 44 percent indicate their environmental shopping habits have not changed as a result of the economy. Fewer than one-in-10 (8 percent) say they are less likely to buy. This is according to the results of the 2009 Cone Consumer Environmental Survey released today.

Even amid the recession, American interest in the environment has not waned, and as a result, many consumers are inclined to hold companies accountable for their environmental commitments today and in the future:

• 35 percent of Americans have higher interest in the environment today than they did one year ago;

• 35 percent of Americans have higher expectations for companies to make and sell environmentally responsible products and services during the economic downturn; and,

• 70 percent of Americans indicate that they are paying attention to what companies are doing with regard to the environment today, even if they cannot buy until the future.

“The fact that consumers continue to be interested in the environment and mindful of corporate efforts, even in the midst of a grueling recession, is evidence that this is more than just a passing trend,” says Jonathan Yohannan, Senior Vice President of Corporate Responsibility, Cone. “Environmental responsibility is not just an expectation in times of prosperity.

SANYO ‘eneloop bike’ Electric Hybrid Bicycle Makes First San Diego Debut
Street Smart San Diego Attendees to Test Drive the Latest in Sustainable Energy Transportation

SAN DIEGO, CA, June 5, 2009 – SANYO North America Corporation (SANYO), a subsidiary of and the North American regional headquarters of SANYO Electric Co., Ltd., based in San Diego, announces the arrival and demonstration of its new ‘eneloop bike’, a electric hybrid bicycle, to San Diego, where it will make its first debut in “America’s Finest City” this Sunday at Street Smart San Diego.

During this event showcasing the latest alternative fuel vehicles, attendees will have the chance to be among the first U.S. consumers to test drive the ‘eneloop bike’ electric hybrid bicycle and experience firsthand how this bicycle creates clean, reusable energy that is generated, recharged and conserved. Free to the public, Street Smart San Diego takes place on Sunday, June 7 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and is sponsored by and held at the California Center for Sustainable Energy, at their home office on 8690 Balboa Ave. in Kearny Mesa.

 “SANYO is demonstrating a real commitment to finding innovative solutions for sustainable transportation alternatives with the ‘eneloop bike’ because it provides riders an opportunity to ride longer distances without the rider having to increase his or her endurance,” said Irene Stillings, executive director of the California Center for Sustainable Energy. “We’re thrilled to have the bike at Street Smart San Diego where all types of alternative transportation that reduce fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions are on display.”

 Test drivers of the ‘eneloop bike’ electric hybrid bicycle will experience the new “loop charge function” which both generates electricity and charges the battery while in use. This function controls the level of necessary power or braking, depending on the incline of the road. Featuring a two-wheel drive system in which the rear wheel is driven by human pedaling power and the front tire is powered by motorized power, the electric hybrid bicycle is designed to offer the rider a safer, more stable ride.

 In addition, the bicycle’s “power up” mode allows riders to pedal up steep hills effortlessly. This mode incorporates SANYO’s proprietary ‘smooth assistance control’ aid by balancing the bicycle when pedaling starts --- allowing a smoother, safer ride. The SANYO ‘eneloop bike’ is part of a larger series of products, known as the ‘eneloop universe’. Based on the ‘eneloop’ battery, these products are designed to encourage consumers to develop lifestyles of reusing with their products. SANYO’s selection of consumer eneloop products available in North America includes rechargeable NiMH ‘eneloop’ batteries, ‘eneloop’ battery chargers, ‘eneloop’ Power Packs, and ‘eneloop’ Mobile Boosters, designed for mobile terminal devices such as MP3 players or portable game consoles, as well as other accessories.

 “SANYO’s participation in this year’s Street Smart San Diego event shows the public how SANYO provides innovative solutions for a sustainable world,” said Mr. Akihiko Oiwa, Director of Corporate Communications for SANYO North America Corporation. “Using a number of our proprietary energy and environment-related technologies, the ‘eneloop bike’ electric hybrid bicycle embodies SANYO’s brand vision, ‘Think GAIA,’ and our commitment to both sustainable business and the environment. The ‘eneloop bike’ is a true representation of the next generation of sustainable transportation.”

 Currently, the SANYO ‘eneloop bike’ electric hybrid bicycle is expected to arrive for U.S. retail sale in the fall 2009.

 For more information on the Street Smart San Diego event, please visit: www.streetsmartsandiego.org.

 About SANYO

SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. is a multi-billion dollar, leading company for energy and environment, providing solutions for environment, energy and lifestyle applications, based on its brand vision ‘Think GAIA’. SANYO North America Corporation, a subsidiary of SANYO Electric, markets and sells energy- and environment-related products in North America including a variety of commercial and consumer solutions such as rechargeable batteries, digital imaging devices, biomedical and health-related equipment, HVAC equipment, home appliances, etc.

For further information on SANYO, please visit http://us.sanyo.com/.

Pgt® Celebrates Earth Day By Partnering With L.E.E.D. Depot To Retrofit And “Green” Chamber South
-- 1950’s era building to become state-of-the-art LEED® certified facility

MIAMI and VENICE, Fla., April 22, 2009 – In celebration of Earth Day, PGT Industries, a wholly owned subsidiary of PGT, Inc. (NASDAQ: PGTI), announced today that it will partner with L.E.E.D. Depot in its flagship project, the “Greening of Chamber South.”

“PGT takes pride in its energy-efficient windows and we are excited to be participating in such an ambitious project,” said Debbie LaPinska, vice president of sales and marketing at PGT. “The new Chamber South building will showcase energy-efficient technology and building products, serving as a model for the industry.”

PGT will showcase products from its commercial Architectural Systems storefront line and its WinGuard® line of impact-resistant windows and doors. PGT distributor Jeff Karlsen, president of Window Professionals, has crews donating their time to install the windows and doors used in the project.

“In addition to the hurricane protection that the PGT products offer, the windows are Energy Star compliant and contain Low-E glass which has a special coating that keeps heat out while letting sun in,” said Karlsen. “It is expected that the building will see a 25% reduction in its energy costs.”

Miami-based L.E.E.D. Depot, a leading provider of LEED consulting, products, as well as building and design services, will be overseeing the modernization and retrofitting of the entire project.

“Our flagship project with Chamber South will demonstrate how to properly retrofit an existing property, make it LEED compliant and put new life into the building through green technologies, processes and products,” said Edward “Ned” Stieglitz, president, L.E.E.D. Depot. “We are excited that PGT Industries is the first major manufacturer to partner with us on the ‘Greening of Chamber South’. There are still other opportunities for ‘green manufactures’ to participate in a partnership in this project.”

Chamber South, the leading business chamber of commerce serving Greater South Miami-Dade County with more than 1,200 business representatives, unveiled the project to its members at its monthly breakfast coinciding with Earth Day. Its president, Mary Scott Russell, is inviting the public to come and see the technology at work and monitor the energy savings as well as other tangible improvements. The “Greening of Chamber South” project is in Partnership with the Dade Community Foundation for the Education of the Broader Business Community and the general public regarding "green" technologies and materials as well as related environmental issues, added Russell.

“We hope that our building will inspire others to conserve and protect our environment,” said Russell. “The Chamber South building will not only showcase the latest in energy-efficient technology, but it will also mark South Miami as a City invested in a more eco-friendly future.”

L.E.E.D. Depot will be broadcasting the “Greening of Chamber South” on YouTube so people interested in following the project can see all the work, effort and technology needed to turn a 1950’s era building into a state-of-the art green and LEED certified facility. The first video is now available and shows the project in the “before”. The project is in the planning stage and will take approximately two months to complete once the work gets started.

The “Greening of Chamber South” includes the following major items to become LEED certified:

• Solar: solar panels and solar films
• VOC-Free: paints, sealants and adhesives
• Lighting: Garper Energy Solutions Ultra-efficient T-5 retrofit fluorescents, LED and fiber optic technologies
• Flooring: bamboo, palm and “green” carpeting
• Roofing: Nanotechnology ceramic insulating paint coatings
• Windows & Doors: ENERGY STAR© certified – provided by PGT
• Plumbing: new water saving and other green products
• A/C lower tonnage based on newer windows
• Cleaning products: green certified VOC-free
• Waste stream audit
• Indoor Air Quality management system
• 5-year Green Plan


About LEED® Certification:

LEED certification is the recognized standard for measuring building sustainability. Achieving LEED certification is the best way for you to demonstrate that your building project is truly "green." The LEED green building rating system -- developed and administered by the U.S. Green Building Council, a Washington D.C.-based, nonprofit coalition of building industry leaders -- is designed to promote design and construction practices that increase profitability while reducing the negative environmental impacts of buildings and improving occupant health and well-being.

Another Green-Initiative Example - Gran Centenario Rosangel Debuts World’s 1^st Hibiscus-Infused Tequila At Cosabella

By Nancy Powell Radlauer (powellreviews@aol.com)

Gran Centenario Rosangel, recently-released its ultra-premium rose-colored spirit, the world's first hibiscus-infused tequila. Its properties boast the finest, sweetest flavor, and 100% Highland blue agave. The company relies on eco-friendly, small-scale agricultural practices, using locally-sourced grain and engaging in many other sustainability initiatives to nurture and harvest the agave for ten to twelve years.

In 1858, Lazaro Gallardo, a tavern owner and tequila producer, invented a unique tequila-making process called “Selección Suave” (Smooth Selection). This usual process blended newly-rested tequilas with the smoothest aged tequila reserves, resulting in the highest-quality and best-tasting tequila. In the late 1800s, Gallardo named his tequila Gran Centenario to commemorate the new century and began selling it in his tavern. In 1920, his son Luciano bottled Gran Centenario. The bottle, inspired by Art Deco architecture, remains true to its original form today. And production of Gran Centenario still relies on the Selección Suave process.

Harvested Agave hearts are baked for 72 hours in traditional clay ovens to guarantee that even the subtlest essence remains. Next, it is blended with traces of older tequila reserves for character and balance, then rests for two months in port barrels. The result imparts a sunset pink hue and deepens the complexity of Rosangel’s flavor. Finally, the spirit is infused with the natural flavor of delicate hibiscus flowers, a staple in Mexican culture and cuisine. The finished product has a complex, perfumed nose with ripe fruit and floral notes, plus hints of vanilla, while the palate holds flavors of dried fruits leading to a smooth, gentle finish.

Gran Centario is still family-owned, consciously-attuned to local charitable causes, and continues to be crafted in small batches.

Rosangel Margarita Recipe

1 ½ oz. Rosangel

½ oz. Premium Orange Liquer

1 Tablespoon Agave Nectar

Juice of 1 Lime

1 Tablespoon freshly-squeezed Oragne Juice

1 Tablespoon Cranberry Juice

Splash of Ginger Ale

1 ½ Cup of Ice

Garnish with either (1) Hibiscus flowers or other edible flower petals, (2) skewered fresh or frozen cranberries, or (3) rim the glass with lime juice ad invert in sugar or pulverized candied ginger. Need an appetizer to nibble on? Just use your imagination; sauté a dozen shrimp in Rosangel Hibiscus-flavored tequila, butter and garlic.

Gran Centenario Rosangel was recently unveiled at COSABELLA (“beautiful thing”), a luxury lingerie boutique, located at 760 Ocean Dr in Miami Beach. Cosabella introduced its environmentally-friendly “green” loungewear in EDEN BAMBOO designed in a luxurious blend of ultra-soft modal and ecologically-innovative bamboo fiber. The skin-friendly and eco-friendly Green collections are designed in exclusive low-impact bamboo fabric that is breathable and cool, with natural vegetable color dyes for better well-being, and super-fine 44-gauge knit that is antistatic, antibacterial, and odor preventative to absorb moisture four times greater than cotton. Look for natural colors such as earth, onion, radish and sage.

Founded in 1983 by husband and wife team Ugo and Valeria Campello, Cosabella is a leading intimate apparel designer celebrating its 25^th anniversary. To mark this milestone, Cosabella expanded its impressive fine lingerie line to include swimwear, apparel and hosiery collections. Its lingerie and sleepwear playfully offer distinctive colors, bold, vintage-inspired laces and signature prints. Classic silhouettes are flirty and fun to reflect the ultra-feminine. Throughout the seasons, the color palette roves from smooth sea-spray green and its newest skin-tone color (a rosy light gold, blush) to bold magenta, marine blue and bright amethyst. Luminous metallics are highlighted with tattoo-like mesh, metallic-silver embroidery, Swarovski diamontes, coppery lace; and micro-fiber groups in pewter. Deco-inspired lace runs throughout the collection with exciting oversized florals. The emphasis is on fashionable loungewear and sleepwear with chemises, camisole and pants or boxers sets, and robes.

Ugo and Valeria Campello of Cosabella evoke social-responsibility and eco-awareness by embracing green living.

Earth Day 2009:  Shaklee Plants One Million Trees!  

On Earth Day, April 22, 2009, Shaklee Chairman & CEO Roger Barnett, the Honorable Arnold Scharzenegger, Governor of the State of California and 2004 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Wangari Maathai pitched in to plant the millionth tree in Shaklee's Million Trees. Million Dreams.™ campaign.

Gov. Schwarzenegger praised the efforts of the Shaklee Family, "It is wonderful that you have taken on the leadership here in planting this million trees and continue inspiring so many people," acknowledging the incredible accomplishment of having planted enough trees to "fill up Disneyland 18 times!"  In addition to his familiarity with the quality of Shaklee nutritional supplements from his days as a professional body builder, Gov. Schwarzenegger expressed that "Shaklee is about inspiring others," uniting people in a common cause.  He mused, "How many schools had to participate, how many neighborhoods had to participate, groups and individuals, parks?  It's great when people come together."

Dr. Maathai congratulated the Shaklee Family on the success of this campaign, and the power of Social Marketing to make a difference:  

"Shaklee led the way in achieving carbon neutrality in 2000 and has mobilized its networks to plant a million trees for the planet, which is not only a great achievement, but an inspiration to all of us."  Roger honored Dr. Maathai with the first ever Shaklee Eco-Entrepreneur of the Year Award™ for harnessing economic rewards through her Green Belt Movement, a non-profit organization empowering communities worldwide to protect the environment.  In addition to the historic millionth tree, 11 more trees were planted by Shaklee employees and visiting Shaklee Distributors, as well as 32 plants in our demonstration gardens, representing botanicals used in Shaklee products.  

A New Commitment — A Million Healthier Lives in 2009

As part of the company's continuing efforts to improve the health of people and the planet, Roger announced the company's newest campaign to create A Million Healthier Lives in 2009.  He also announced that, because of the current economic crisis, for the next 30 days through May 22nd, we'll be continuing to offer free membership in Shaklee, so that anyone may start their own business today, in an effort to provide an economic opportunity for one million Americans to provide for their families while also taking care of our planet.

"Shaklee has tried to show the world that companies can build long term successful businesses by helping millions of people have better health and more income, while making a meaningful impact on the world.  We are very proud to provide our more than 750,000 members and distributors with an opportunity to do well by doing well which has helped Shaklee not just survive, but thrive through every single recession in the last 50 years."

To learn more about Shaklee products, click onto www.shaklee.net/hms/getclean

Cambean Hospitality to Become World’s Most Progressive Carbon Neutral Hospitality Company

Miami Beach hotel chain to mitigate energy consumption for operations of the entire property portfolio through offsets and renewable energy credits
Cambean Hospitality, a Miami Beach-based hospitality group that owns and manages four boutique hotel properties in the historic South Beach area, today announced that they will soon be the most Earth-friendly, carbon neutral hospitality company in the world. Cambean plans to achieve this designation by installing solar panels and a wind turbine on the roof of the Clifton South Beach Hotel, and by purchasing carbon offsets and renewable energy credits (RECs) from Boulder, Colo.-based Renewable Choice Energy to offset Cambean’s fuel and electricity consumption.
“While many hospitality companies have embraced being ‘Green,’ their involvement, and the involvement of their guests, is purely a voluntary or opportunistic approach and is not mandated by corporate guidelines,” stated Brian Scheinblum, president of Cambean Hospitality. “Cambean Hospitality, on the other hand, has quantified the carbon footprint for our entire portfolio of properties, and is mandating that we become carbon neutral. To that end, we’ve invested in the most progressive accounting, offsetting and renewable credit purchase program anywhere.”
In order to quantify energy consumption, Cambean Hospitality hired HVS in Miami to perform an Operations Sustainability Analysis (OSA). The OSA analyzes opportunities within a hotel for saving money through physical retrofits and changes in operational procedures, all of which contribute to conservation and sustainability. The cost of these changes is calculated and compared against the forecasted savings in operating expenses allowing a clear understanding of the cost/benefit and anticipated payback period for investing in these changes. The HVS OSA also includes a quantification of the carbon emissions footprint relative to the hotel, as prepared by EnviRelation. The EnviRelation carbon emissions report is the only one of its kind that calculates the full carbon footprint of a hotel property inclusive of all scopes – electric, gas, water consumption, as well as employee transportation to the property, trash removal, linen services, etc. Next, Cambean Hospitality reached out to Renewable Choice Energy to design an offset and renewable energy credit program based on the carbon footprint of the entire portfolio.
“In order to become carbon neutral, a company must address all three scopes of energy consumption and emissions, and Cambean Hospitality has done that,” stated Scheinblum. “Through our aggressive offsetting and credit investments, we are addressing the direct emissions from company-owned assets (Scope 1), indirect emissions from purchased electricity (Scope 2), and indirect emissions from outsourced activities (Scope 3).”
It is the ability to address all three scopes that allow Cambean to be a leader in Green hospitality.
“Cambean Hotels is leading by example as it demonstrates a comprehensive vision for corporate environmental responsibility. Cambean is immersing itself in sustainability practices and setting itself apart in the hospitality industry,” said Quayle Hodek, CEO of Renewable Choice Energy. “Through its investments in both renewable energy and carbon reduction projects, Cambean is showcasing the importance of evaluating and reducing carbon emissions on a corporate level. Their commitment supports the development of the renewable energy infrastructure that is a vital component of increasing the clean energy produced in the U.S.”
For more information, please contact Brian Scheinblum at (305) 455-2236 or visit www.cambean.com.
About Renewable Choice Energy

Boulder, Colorado-based Renewable Choice Energy (www.renewablechoice.com) is the award-winning, full-service provider of renewable energy and carbon offsets. Renewable Choice is the leading renewable energy supplier to green building developers nationwide with over 750 LEED projects successfully completed.  Founded in 2001, Renewable Choice’s clients include Whole Foods Market, Vail Resorts, hundreds of businesses and thousands of individuals across the country.
About Cambean Hospitality

Cambean Hospitality is a Miami Beach-based hotel ownership and management company that provides professional support services to independent hotel properties. Cambean Hospitality combines cutting edge technology services and prestige locations, incorporating high end yield practices to maximize profits and streamline expenses through personalized strategies that focus on operations, finance, sales and marketing, as well as human resource management.
Currently, Cambean Hospitality properties include the Nash South Beach Hotel (www.nashsouthbeach.com), Carlton Hotel South Beach (www.carltonsouthbeach.com), Majestic Hotel South Beach (www.majesticsouthbeach.com), and the Clifton Hotel (www.cliftonsouthbeach.com), all located in the historic South Beach district of Miami Beach. Cambean Hospitality is aggressively pursuing management and acquisition opportunities throughout Miami Beach and other Florida markets. For more information, please visit www.cambean.com or contact Brian Scheinblum at brian@cambean.com.

City of North Miami Goes Green

By Nancy Powell Radlauer

The City of North Miami recently initiated a city-wide GREEN program and their successes to date are easily quantifiable. Mayor Kevin Burns and his Green Task Force have been instrumental in advocating eco-friendliness and educating their North Miami community on its benefits. According to Mayor Burns their goal is simple: “It’s all about making North Miami a healthier place to live”. And in the process, we all win!

The Green Team Task Force falls under the leadership of Maxine Calloway, Community Planning & Development Director, who is working collaboratively with Mark Collins, Public Works Director; Jacqueline Gonzalez, Building & Zoning Director; Terry Lytle, Parks and Recreation Director; and Pam Solomon, Public Information Officer. The City is currently a Registered Green Local Government with the Florida Green Building Council (FGBC) and is working toward certification as a Green Government. Maxine Calloway explained that attaining certification as a Green Government is an extensive process but that North Miami’s designation is imminent.

North Miami’s Green Team has designed and executed numerous Green initiatives. They formed templates for new development as well as redevelopment projects, to guide builders in sustaining Green practices. The City’s comprehensive plan includes the reduction of energy usage, lessening landfill waste and emissions, the conservation of building materials and resources, and the promotion of water efficiency. Tax incentives are under consideration for those who adhere to LEED standards; Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) incorporates a green building rating system as adopted by the U.S. Green Building Council. All new public buildings currently fall under the same guidelines for design and construction. Long-term Green affordable housing strategies aim at achieving LEED standards in North Miami’s housing rehab program. One hundred percent of the Federal Community Development Block Grant, the Home Ownership Opportunities Program funds, and the Florida’s State Housing Initiatives Program funds, all funnel back to “greening” the City.

The City takes pride in its unique distinction nationally; North Miami was selected as the location for the first Green McDonald’s fast food restaurant. Greening of restaurants is not limited solely to food. The former Boston Market site will be converted into a McDonald’s Green prototype, built to conform to LEED building standards. Plans include recycling demolished Boston Market debris, using energy-efficient materials in construction, creating a specialized gutter system to route rainwater to sustain landscaping, utilize locally-produced food products, and selling used fry oil to local recyclers. Calloway acknowledged that McDonald’s opening is currently in push-back status; it was originally slated to open by the end of 2008 but is now scheduled to launch in May 2009.

Green-based public transportation options abound. City employees share the benefits of going green by receiving heavily-subsidized transit bus passes and Tri-Rail passes, preferential parking for driving hybrid cars or car pooling, and become eligible for six free taxi rides if they walk or ride a bike to work. And all residents secure complimentary access to NOMI Express, the city’s local shuttle buses which operate on Biodiesel fuel.

A newly-instituted rewards-based Recycling Program promotes and encourages recycling which remunerates the entire community. Green points are earned based on the weight of one’s recyclables. By logging onto Green North Miami, residents can redeem their points for discounts and coupons at neighborhood restaurants and businesses including Publix and Target. And the City, by example, walks the talk! They recently won a National Recycling Competition “Cans for Cash” and earned a $5,000 award for the most aluminum cans recycled in their division. Forty cities across the United States participated in the contest which collectively recycled over 115 million aluminum cans during the challenge.

North Miami is an active participant in Energy Star’s “Change a Light Pledge”. In the city’s Change a Light Bulb Campaign, it promises to exchange fifteen hundred incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs. The savings on residents’ electricity bills approximate thirty dollars per year per light bulb. Imagine the savings. Multiply that one light bulb by the number of light bulbs per home and residents can clearly maximize their financial gains.

Green tips are posted on the City’s web site. Most are simple tips and require little to no effort on one’s part; such as carpooling to reduce CO2 emissions from burning fuel, using green cleaning products to reduce environmental and physical heath hazards, and avoiding air conditioning an empty room. Consider water conservation; how often have you left the water running in the sink while brushing your teeth? Did you know that running the faucet for two to three minutes dumps over three gallons of water down the drain? As for recycling glass, plastic, metal, and paper; be aware that an average North Miami resident discards over four pounds of waste every day, more than three-quarters of a ton per year. Additional advice; unplug home electronics because forty percent of electricity used to power them is consumed while the products are turned off but still plugged into the electrical sockets. And joining the paperless society of emails and online banking can save eighteen million trees and avoid two billion tons of toxic air pollutants.

North Miami is making a difference. To solicit best practices and tap into additional green resources, the City partnered with the U.S. Conference of Mayors in their fight against Climate Change through the establishment of the Mayors Climate Protection Center, the Florida Green Building Coalition, the U.S. Green Building Council, and ICLEI (Local Government for Sustainability), whose goal is to improve the global environment through local action.

North Miami is a leader in environmental efficiency and social responsibility. Their Green Billboard proudly encourages all residents to join them in making a difference. So add ONE green action to your life today and decrease your carbon footprint. As per the City of North Miami, “It doesn't take long to make some changes that will significantly shrink your impact on the environment.” GO GREEN with ENV.

For information contact Maxine Calloway, Director of Community Planning and Development, 305.893.6511 ext. 12175 mcalloway@northmiamifl.gov

Photos by Green North Miami Site ©2008

Everglades and Sugar – An Unlikely Combination

“An Optimistic Perspective”

 By: Wayne Rassner

Can it be that the bane of the Everglade’s existence – Big Sugar – may now be its savior?  There have been countless articles in recent weeks pertaining to the purchase of U.S. Sugar by the State of Florida.

The articles have ranged from the deal being the only real hope for the future of the Everglades, to a total disregard for Florida’s sunshine laws.  Maybe there is truth in both, or perhaps the truth lies somewhere in the middle, or what if we all stop trying to characterize the effort, but rather implement it in the most advantageous fashion.  This article will not address the details of the deal, nor the history of sugar and the Everglades.  You can Google all of that information, if you are not already exhausted by the barrage of posturing and media hype.

It seems that our citizenry and media immediately seek the bleak and ignore the score.  There is no question that the sugar deal is one of the major scores of this generation.  If we stay on the course of tearing apart, piece by piece, this potentially great leap forward, then we will once again, not have learned from history.  And by history, I mean the very recent history of the Everglades being the beneficiary of the largest environmental restoration project on the planet Earth.  Wow – that just sounds amazing – and better than that, it could have been amazing.  So what has happened since that was put on the table?  Battles, budget cuts while there were battles, opposing interests failing to find common ground while there were battles, and all that time the money was drifting away - but not in the “River of Grass” because the “River of Grass” is ailing.

When will we learn?  The amazing thing is that the various parties putting up the roadblocks to the sugar deal, for the most part, would love nothing more than seeing the Everglades restored.  Strangely enough, the current situation is not as a result of giant developers versus environmentalists who shun development, but rather various beneficiaries of the deal who have different visions of what should happen with this deal.  And then there is the issue of what will happen with Clewiston “The Sweetest Town in America.”  It is commonly believed that Clewiston will be “no more” if and when the implementation of the sugar deal commences.  There are Everglades lovers who believe it is a price worth paying.  The residents of Clewiston may have a little trouble with that position.  Well, I happen to be on the top of the chart of Everglades lovers, and have been for over 45 years.  Well, I happen to have a place in my heart for Clewiston, and have for over 45 years.  What?  Oh no – how can I choose – I love them both.

There is one thing I am sure of.  I don’t want to see the battle lines drawn, the money disappear while the competing, albeit well-intentioned, parties fail to realize there is common ground, and once again potentially great things take a back seat to the love for posturing and having to prove you are right.

So, let’s get real.  Without the Everglades there can be no Florida.  With a healthy Everglades there will be a thriving Florida for many generations to come.  This probably does not give any solace to our friends in Clewiston.  I for one am not even close to writing off Clewiston.  In fact, I am bursting with excitement about the future of Clewiston.  I have been envisioning this wonderful and historical town redirecting their focus away from sugar and toward all of the growth (managed I hope) that will come from not only jobs associated with the incredible undertaking of bringing back the flow of the River of Grass from Lake Okeechobee southward, but also the sure-to-be service industry that will come from countless visitors, scientists, birders, adventurers, boaters, hikers, bikers, photographers, all of whom need to eat, sleep, put gas in their cars (or charge the batteries of their electric cars - I can only hope) and shop, shop, shop.

Never before since my pleas for people to take care of the Everglades, have I wanted so much for my call to be heard.  My friends of Clewiston, I implore you, please do not sit back and wait for your town to suffer before you take action.  Act now.  You have always been a tough people who have thrived in the face of adversity.  This is your time.  Start tomorrow with your planning so when six years comes along – faster than you think – you will be ready to hit the ground running.  Develop your business plans, make your connections, reach out to other parts of our country that have a similar type of environmental based job community and certainly work together as a family.  It was hard enough to go without Old South Barbeque for all those years; now that it is back, I can’t bear to think that it could disappear again.

Let us all celebrate the simultaneous victories of U.S. Sugar’s land being transformed back to “The River of Grass” and the future of Clewiston which could be the model for towns whose fate may be affected by improvements to the environment.  It can be a win-win.

Re4a, One Possible Global Solution? 

By Marguerite Gil                                                                                                                       Arts, Entertainment, Dining Writer

Resolution: 4 Architecture was founded in 1990 in New York City by partners Joseph Tanney and Robert Luntz.  Seventeen years ago this award-winning architectural practice, whose work has been recognized in numerous architectural journals and publications, (for their well-detailed and finely crafted urban domestic spaces), set out to demonstrate the superiority of prefabricated building technology over site-built homes.  Environmental factors, quality and efficiency of building costs as well as speed of construction and design was essential for them.

Their conscientious perspective was to develop sustainable methods, strategies and solutions for current and long-range needs facing numerous dynamic communities in our global warming environment.

Most recently Re4a has undertaken what they refer to as, “The Modern Modular,” approach, which is a systematic methodology of design.  It’s a viable attempt to integrate existing methods of prefabrication into future residential construction.  Also important to this concept is the use of photovoltaics, direct current appliances, passive heating & cooling and geothermal heat-pumps.

“Our goal is to come as close to the concept of ‘zero-energy’ homes as possible,” said Tanney.  Both men recommend pre-installed interior and exterior finishes, which ultimately will cut costs, non-toxic materials for obvious health reasons and recycled steel frames for long-term sustainability which qualifies in today’s market as GREEN design.

“We want to uncover ways to offer environmentally responsible, aesthetically pleasing modern modular homes that will meet the dwelling needs of many small families. More so since the earth’s population is growing so rapidly and resource scarcity will be a problem in the coming years” said Luntz.

Most of the modules that Re4a now use can be built in a couple of days.  The ‘houses’ are 50-70% complete when they arrive at a terrain.  Kitchen cabinets, sinks and tiles can be partially installed long before the structure is completed depending on the client’s needs.  Their designs will save homeowners time and expenses as well as wear and tear on the psychic.

If these two architects win their self-made challenge, future generations will be able to live in habitats that are easily built, inexpensive compared to today’s prices, attractive, comfortable, durable and perhaps most importantly for the planet…ecologically correct… J  

megs@gate.net

Go Green...no need to wait.

Now, more than ever, it’s critical to “Go Green” and Hardy-Graham has the system for every industry that needs to move parts or products in containers that are re-usable, easy to use, environmentally responsible, and cost-effective.

American-made, government tested and approved, with N.S.N.* on all parts, the Hardy-Built® System is an engineered, patented fastener used to lock together panels of wood or other materials for knockdown, re-usable containers. Virtually any thickness material fits the system.

Flexible and fast, the Hardy-Built® System provides a variety of secure crating, storage and shipping solutions- from common problems to unique applications.

Whether your business is electronics, avionics, computers, medical equipment, high tech industrial or low-tech hardware, Hardy-Built will transfer your materials efficiently, safely and securely.

Drew Graham, President
Hardy-Graham, Inc.
www.hardy-builtfastener.com

True Sustainability: A New Model to Aid Nonprofits in Developing Self-Sustaining Revenue Streams

One of the biggest challenges that nonprofits face is generating revenue for their vital missions. Because tax-exempt organizations cannot raise capital through traditional capital markets, they have tended to focus on donations as the sole or primary source of revenue and to ignore proactively pursuing capital. With the pervading misconception that nonprofits cannot make a profit, most tax-exempt organizations do not take full advantage of permitted "for-profit" and capital acquisition opportunities in order to accomplish their missions.
Not-for-profit, or nonprofit, is not synonymous with unprofitable. In fact, the term is not only a misnomer but has impeded many nonprofits from succeeding in their missions and being good stewards of the resources entrusted to them by donors. Nonprofits have been able to engage in for-profit activities, possibly even free of the unrelated business income tax (UBIT), as long the activities further their charitable purposes and do not constitute a substantial part of their activities.
On June 1, 2004, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued Revenue Ruling 2004-51, providing a model by which tax-exempt organizations may safely enter into joint ventures with for-profit corporations without fear of losing their exemptions or being subjected to UBIT. This ruling marks a decisive victory for tax-exempt organizations in their search to expand funding channels. It allows nonprofits to partner with for-profit entities on a limited basis, in furtherance of the nonprofits' tax-exempt purposes, while providing both organizations with an opportunity to establish stable revenue streams.
Using the example, the IRS provides a "safe-harbor" by which a new, for-profit LLC can be formed without jeopardizing the nonprofit organization's tax-exempt status or subjecting its revenues (or profits) to UBIT. The following seven elements must be present in this type of joint venture to prevent a nonprofit organization from either losing its 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or subjecting itself to UBIT.

1. The activities conducted by the nonprofit through the LLC cannot constitute a substantial part of the nonprofit's activities. It must still primarily engage in a tax-exempt purpose.
2. Any activities that the nonprofit participates in or conducts through the newly established LLC must be substantially related to the nonprofit's tax-exempt purposes and functions; otherwise, profits will be subject to UBIT.
3. The nonprofit organization must maintain control sufficient to ensure the furtherance of its charitable purposes. Essentially the nonprofit should retain sole discretion over all decisions contributing importantly to its exempt purpose.
4. Any and all contracts that the newly formed LLC enters into must be at arm's length and for fair market value.
5. The LLC's governing documents should limit the nonprofit's participation to only those activities that will not jeopardize the organization's tax exemption.
6. The ownership interests in the LLC must be proportional to the respective capital contributions, and all revenue generated by the LLC or capital returns must be distributed according to these proportional ownership interests. It is important that any disbursement be to the nonprofit entity and not to a private individual, which would constitute private inurnment and place that nonprofit in breach of its tax-exempt status.
7. There should be a showing that the LLC is in furtherance of the nonprofit's charitable purpose and that this venture will expand the nonprofit's ability to accomplish that purpose.

The revenue-building potential of this new model is significant. Nonprofit organizations have a new and exciting opportunity to utilize a business model capable of providing them with "true sustainability" and fiscal freedom. Through the innovative creation of an LLC that can provide a nonprofit organization with stable, consistent, and, more important, largely self-controlled funding, nonprofits should be able to allocate a greater portion of their manpower and time to providing core, central, and mission-driven services.
What is most encouraging about this entire model, however, is that for-profit organizations will be motivated to participate with 501(c)(3)s in developing successful LLCs with a social conscience. Nonprofits will be able to participate and share in the capital markets that have previously been almost exclusively limited to for-profit companies. Additionally, for-profit entities will benefit from both the risk reduction associated with traditional partnerships and the goodwill of being associated with a cause-oriented, tax-exempt organization. Most important, both entities can receive substantial returns on their respective investments.
The IRS's decision promotes a dynamic synergy between the powerful mission- and community-sensitive services provided by nonprofits and the experience and profit aspirations of for-profit entities. This type of relationship has the potential to help grow and sustain nonprofits and for-profit entities through the newly formed LLCs. Furthermore, it creates an atmosphere that fosters the creation and development of for-profit companies that are geared toward providing an array of services focused on the common good. Interestingly, the IRS has effectively endorsed the creation of for-profit organizations that have the community conscience of their nonprofit counterparts, and, at least in part, are directed toward fulfilling a charitable purpose on the local, state, or national level.
George T. Dillon and Matthew M. Wilkins, May 2005
© 2004, 2005, Advocatus, LLC