Category Archives: Construction

New hires at Energy Optimizers, USA, will strengthen client focus and company profile

renewable energy projects

TIPP CITY, Ohio, April 12, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Energy Optimizers, USA, has made several strategic hires that will strengthen the company's response to its clients and raise its profile in the energy management market.

According to a company statement: "Our company is expanding in response to the success we've had moving into the commercial market such as the Liberty Tower energy efficiency project in downtown Dayton. As we continue to grow our business beyond the educational and government markets, we have added industry-experienced professionals to provide our clients with top-notch services that exceed expectations."

Russ Morningstar, Field Engineer:

Russ Morningstar has 23 years of experience in building automation and controls with a focus on energy management. He holds a refrigeration-universal level license, geothermal technician certification and socket fusion welding certificate. Morningstar's numerous certifications in building automation and direct digital controls integration and service include Trane, Carrier, Honeywell and Tridium. He additionally holds HVAC certifications for Bryant, Carrier, Honeywell and York, among others.

Ray Robinson, Senior Account Executive:

Ray Robinson has more than 35 years of experience working with Ohio's K-12 school districts in energy efficiency solutions. Mr. Robinson applies his proven expertise with energy auditing, energy conservation project design and project management to tailor specific solutions for each school district he serves. Mr. Robinson holds a bachelor's degree from Bowling Green State University.

Brandon Workman, Business Development/IT Specialist:

As a business development/IT specialist for Energy Optimizers, USA, Brandon Workman is charged with educating school districts and other public entities about the cost-effective energy conservation options available to them by designing flyers, trade show booths and other marketing materials. He additionally oversees the company's technology needs. Prior to joining Energy Optimizers, USA, Brandon spent more than a decade as a sales representative for diverse industries, including telecommunication, pharmaceutical and industrial. He holds a master's degree in Communications and a bachelor's degree in English.

Toni Byrnes, Office Manager:

As office manager, Toni Byrnes helps ensure client needs are met by providing expert office management and administrative support duties. She brings more than 20 years of management-level support experience to the team. Toni previously worked for a physician's office as well as the corporate healthcare market.

About Energy Optimizers, USA:

Energy Optimizers, USA works with educational, governmental, commercial and industrial customers to implement energy savings opportunities to reduce operational costs, including lighting retrofits, renewable energy projects (wind and solar), HVAC retrofit projects, building automation retrofits and energy education programs. The company is ranked in the Top 500 of INC. Magazine's list of 5,000 fastest growing companies in the U.S. (2014), was named the Fastest Growing Company in the region for two consecutive years by the Dayton Business Journal (2013, 2014), and was named a BBB Eclipse Integrity Award Finalist (2012).

To learn more about Energy Optimizers, USA, visit their website at http://energyoptusa.com or call them at (937) 877-1919.

Twitter: @EoptimizeUSA

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NEWS SOURCE Energy Optimizers, USA :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Liberty Tower energy improvement project expected to save $99K in annual utility costs

Liberty Savings Bank

DAYTON, Ohio, March 29, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Liberty Savings Bank, FSB, a family-owned institution located in downtown Dayton, has embarked on an ambitious $870,000 project with Tipp City-based Energy Optimizers, USA, to transform the 85-year-old Liberty Tower high rise into an energy-efficient powerhouse.

Energy Optimizers, USA, is replacing the building's aging electrical and HVAC systems with state-of-the-art technology that will save an estimated $99,000 annually in utility costs and provide an anticipated payback of eight years. Work is already underway; the project is expected to be completed this summer.

"Our building is historic, but that doesn't mean we must continue operating with outdated and inefficient equipment," said Ryan Powell, chief executive officer of Liberty Savings Bank. "Our partnership with Energy Optimizers, USA, will enable us to take a position of leadership in operational efficiency and resource conservation."

Specifically, Energy Optimizers, USA, will:
* Replace all interior and exterior lighting with LED lights
* Replace outdated controls on major HVAC systems
* Install advanced programming measures
* Replace the existing steam boiler with two vertical fire tube boilers
* Replace the existing domestic hot water heater with two heat pump water heaters.

LED lighting uses an average of 60 percent less energy than the systems being replaced. Advanced programming measures and new controls will enable the HVAC systems to be managed for maximum efficiency. All savings are guaranteed by Energy Optimizers, USA.

"Historic buildings such as the Liberty Tower are huge energy consumers," said Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley. "The City of Dayton is excited to see new energy efficient technologies implemented in our urban core."

The project will yield more than just annual savings. The project is also expected to generate more than $70,000 in rebates from DP&L.

"Liberty Savings Bank is making a tremendous investment in our community and the future by ensuring this iconic structure can perform at 21st century standards for energy efficiency," said Greg Smith, Energy Optimizers, USA, president. "We are proud to be partnering with such a forward-looking company."

Energy Optimizers, USA, has assisted Liberty Savings Bank with obtaining DRG3 Green Business certification. The certification is awarded by Dayton Regional Green 3 in recognition of organizations that take voluntary steps to protect, preserve and improve the environment. To qualify, organizations must complete an application that documents their efforts to reduce and recycle solid waste, make environmentally preferable purchases, conserve energy and water, and prevent pollution. Organizations must also complete an energy audit of their facilities.

The building, an Art Deco landmark in downtown Dayton, was built in 1931 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Liberty Tower's local ownership and on-site management provide a unique environment for tenants to conduct business in a well-maintained, historic location in the heart of downtown Dayton. The Tower's diverse tenant population currently occupies 90% of the building's 114,000 square feet.

About Energy Optimizers, USA:

Energy Optimizers, USA works with educational, governmental, commercial and industrial customers to implement energy savings opportunities to reduce operational costs, including lighting retrofits, renewable energy projects (wind and solar), HVAC retrofit projects, building automation retrofits and energy education programs. The company is ranked in the Top 500 of INC. Magazine's list of 5,000 fastest growing companies in the U.S. (2014), was named the Fastest Growing Company in the region for two consecutive years by the Dayton Business Journal (2013, 2014), and was named a BBB Eclipse Integrity Award Finalist (2012). To learn more about Energy Optimizers, USA, visit their website at http://energyoptusa.com/ or call them at (937) 877-1919.

About Liberty Savings Bank, FSB:

Liberty Savings Bank, FSB, is a Federal Savings Bank headquartered in Wilmington, Ohio, with 9 branches located in Ohio, Florida and Colorado. Founded in 1889, Liberty Savings Bank, FSB, provides an array of banking products and services with a focus on business and commercial real estate lending, national wholesale mortgage lending and Health Savings Accounts. Visit http://libertysavingsbank.com for more information.

Twitter: @EoptimizeUSA

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NEWS SOURCE Energy Optimizers, USA :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

City of Terre Haute, Indiana, Resumes Blight Elimination Program

Terre Haute Indiana

TERRE HAUTE, Ind., March 24, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The City of Terre Haute, Ind., and its program partner, the Terre Haute Department of Redevelopment, have approved 27 vacant/blighted residential properties for demolition through Round Two of Indiana's Blight Elimination Program (BEP).

The Department of Redevelopment has already completed the acquisition and demolition of approximately 30 residential structures with funds awarded to the city by the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA)'s Blight Elimination Program. The program, funded by the U.S. Department of Treasury's Hardest Hit Fund, aims to revitalize neighborhoods in cities across the state.

Successful Round One and Round Two BEP applications prepared by the Terre Haute Department of Redevelopment have provided the city with approximately $2 million of additional funding sources to address the removal of vacant/blighted residential structures.

"The Blight Elimination Program has greatly benefited the community by providing significant funding to demolish condemned homes that create both a potentially unsafe and unsightly environment in our city," said Terre Haute Mayor Duke Bennett.

According to the Department of Redevelopment, all 26 properties from the city's Round One BEP award have been demolished, and significant funds remain to apply to additional properties. The Department anticipates that an additional 40 to 50 residential structures will be demolished throughout the life of the BEP program.

Phil Kesner, Grants and Planning Administrator for the Terre Haute Department of Redevelopment, said, "The Blight Elimination Program has helped the city stabilize and revitalize central neighborhoods, raising property values or at least stabilizing property values in neighborhoods, thus encouraging future investment."

On September 4, 2015, former Indiana Lieutenant Governor Sue Ellspermann recognized the City of Terre Haute's accomplishments under the BEP program as among the best in Indiana.

More information: http://terrehaute.in.gov/.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/city-of-terre-haute-indiana-resumes-blight-elimination-program-2016-0324-03.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Terre Haute Department of Redevelopment :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

John Cannon Homes Sweeps 2016 Parade of Homes, Wins 16 Awards, 4 Best Overall

Avianna at the Concession

SARASOTA, Fla., March 4, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- John Cannon Homes was the most recognized home builder in this year's Parade of Homes, sweeping the competition with sixteen awards including four in the category of "Best Overall," in a presentation held Thursday by the Manatee-Sarasota Building Industry Association.

John Cannon Homes was awarded Best Overall for The Akarra III in The Vineyards at The Lake Club; The Avianna at The Concession; The Caaren, in The Links at Rosedale; and The Kiandra in Seacroft at Country Club East. The Akarra III was also recognized for Best Architectural Detail, Best Floor Plan, Best Kitchen and Best Master Suite; The Avianna won for Best Architectural Detail and Best Master Suite; The Caaren took the award for Best Curb Appeal and Best Master Suite; and The Kiandra won for Best Curb Appeal, Best Floor Plan and Best Kitchen. Cannon's new showcase home, The Miah, was awarded Best Kitchen in its category.

"We are extremely proud of the accolades we received at the Parade of Homes," John Cannon, President, said, who has won over 300 Parade of Homes awards in the company's history. "We have an experienced team that has been together, some for more than 20 years, who know how to work together. Not many builders have a team in place that does it all - and as well - as we do."

Cannon explained that he feels their award-winning success for their models reflect years of listening to clients effectively, something that brings additional value to both the builder and client in the process. "We feel that every award we receive is an acknowledgement of our commitment in responding to our clients' needs and their desires, which in turn is reflected in our models and design.

"Everything we do with our models, we do for our clients. Value engineering, construction management, quality control, personal design consultation, are all components in successful building, not just the end result of architectural and interior design and all of these go into building a John Cannon home.

"The feedback, working one-on-one with our clients, the constant exchange with them makes us better builders and designers," he said, "and they respond with praise and recognition. "Our customers really are the ones that guide us in setting the bar to the highest level."

"There is a difference, obviously, between a Mercedes and other cars," Cannon said. "Any car can get you to your destination, but as our clients remind us, it's not just what you pay for the home that makes the difference - it's the overall value of the home for years to come."

In the Sub-Contractor categories, Coast to Coast Pools, was awarded Best Pool Design for four John Cannon Homes; The Akarra III, The Avianna, The Baylee and The Kiandra models. Pool Design Concepts received the Best Pool Design for The Miah. Artistree Landscape Design was also awarded Best Landscape Design for The Akarra III model. Photographs, floor plans and virtual tours of these winning homes can be viewed by visiting http://www.johncannonhomes.com/.

There were 110 single-family home entries considered in the competition. The award-winning Cannon models range in size from 2,800 to 5,000 square feet and showcase nearly 30 years of John Cannon's Design/Build expertise. In addition to these awards, last week John Cannon Homes was again acknowledged as Best Builder in Sarasota-Manatee County by readers of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, an award he has received for the past 24 consecutive years.

Along with his six current homes, Cannon's new model at MiraBay on Tampa's South Shore will be featured in the Tampa Bay Parade of Homes, beginning March 5, 2016.

The Manatee-Sarasota Building Industry Association (MSBIA) is a membership driven networking and advocacy group focused on the needs of the building & development industry and related business in Manatee and Sarasota Counties, according to their website. As of September 2015, there are more than 325 members comprised of builders, developers, local municipalities, consultants and supporting businesses. The association is affiliated with both the Florida Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders.

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

VIDEO: (The Avianna at the Concession, Bradenton, FL) - https://youtu.be/xgh9vRztWKk

-- At-A-Glance List of John Cannon Homes 2016 Parade of Homes Awards --

John Cannon Homes received awards in the following categories:
* Winner of Best Overall, Best Architectural Detail, Best Floor Plan, Best Kitchen, Best Master Suite: The Akarra III.
* Winner of Best Overall, Best Architectural Detail, Best Master Suite: The Avianna.
* Winner of Best Overall, Best Curb Appeal, Best Master Suite: The Caaren.
* Winner of Best Overall, Best Curb Appeal, Best Floor Plan, Best Kitchen: The Kiandra.
* Best Kitchen: The Miah.

Sub-Contractor awards for John Cannon Homes:
* Pool Awards: The Akarra III, The Avianna, The Baylee, The Kiandra, The Miah
* Landscaping: The Akarra III.

MEDIA CONTACT:
For additional information, please contact:
Nancy Hielscher, 941-361-1303 or nhielscher@johncannonhomes.com

John Cannon Homes, 6710 Professional Parkway West, Sarasota, FL 34240

*PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/16-0304-Avianna-300dpi.jpg

*Photo Caption: The Avianna at the Concession, Bradenton, FL - Best Architectural Detail.

Twitter: @JCannonHomes

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/john-cannon-homes-sweeps-2016-parade-of-homes-wins-16-awards-4-best-overall-2016-0304-03.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE John Cannon Homes :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Toledo Celebrates Home and Neighborhood Revitalization Day

Home and Neighborhood Revitalization Day

TOLEDO, Ohio, March 2, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Three Ohio cities - including Toledo ranking fourth - were reported by the Economic Innovation Group as being among the country's most distressed communities. In an effort to provide a catalyst for change Residential Renovations launched the official "Home and Neighborhood Revitalization Day" at their Toledo, Ohio showroom on Saturday February 27 with an Official Proclamation Presentation from Mayor Paula Hicks-Hudson with Alan Cox City of Toledo Housing Commissioner and Department of Neighborhoods with Toledo City Councilman, Peter Uvagi.

In 2015, Toledoans saw a five percent increase in home sales with the average price of $97,500 reaching on average ninety-five percent of the asking price. According to the Lucas County Land Bank, many homeowners cannot keep up with major exterior maintenance and show twenty percent of residential homes in Toledo have a serious maintenance issue, including roof, foundation, or fire damage.

Scott Pratt, Sr., owner of Residential Renovations explained, "Owning a home is the American dream, however home maintenance can be challenging. Often, homeowners lack the knowledge of what maintenance is essential, coupled with few viable product and professional installation options, it can have a devastating impact. As a home remodeler, if I concentrate on empowering homeowners through home analysis and professional, cost-centric home remodeling options with a warranty, Residential Renovations can be the catalyst behind increasing home values."

In honor of the "Home and Neighborhood Revitalization Day" Residential Renovations hosted a celebration featuring the conclusion to the Residential Renovations $25,000 Ultimate Remodeling Makeover Contest, an ice carving by award-winning 'Ice Creations' from Wauseon, Ohio, showroom tours with top manufacturer reps, and an appearance by Marty the Metal Roof.

At 2 p.m., Jerry Burns' lucky key opened the contest entry door and was presented with $25,000 for remodeling her home with Residential Renovations from thousands of entries.

About Residential Renovations:

Residential Renovations is a strong community supporter supplying thousands of dollars in remodeling donations with Critical Care Packs to families in need. Formed in 2008 as an exterior home remodeler focused on price, choice and quality solutions to meet all homeowners' needs by offering the largest selection in metal roofs, siding, windows, sunrooms, and more.

Scott Pratt elaborated, "Home remodeling should not be a one-size fits all business. Most remodelers offer only one product solution, adjusting the price to fit what they believe a homeowner can pay. Ethics and professional standards are the keystone behind our home remodeling solutions."

For more information on Residential Renovations, visit: http://residentialrenovations.com/

For more information on Toledo, Ohio, visit: http://www.dotoledo.org/

Video: https://youtu.be/4FFwQOZUZUo

*PHOTO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/16-0302-homerevday-300dpi.jpg

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/toledo-celebrates-home-and-neighborhood-revitalization-day-2016-0302-03.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Residential Renovations :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Weitz & Luxenberg Secures $5.2 Million Verdict Finding Malice in Asbestos Lawsuit Against Fluor and Subsidiaries

mesothelioma verdict

LOS ANGELES, Calif., Feb. 19, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Nationally known law firm Weitz & Luxenberg P.C. secured a verdict of $5.2 million in damages on behalf of an 82-year-old Orange County, California, man and his wife who sued a Fortune 500 company they charged with contributing to his increased risk of developing mesothelioma, Weitz & Luxenberg announced today.

Fluor Corporation and two of its subsidiaries were found to be 40 percent at fault by the jury. Mesothelioma is an invariably fatal cancer of the lining of the lungs caused by exposure to asbestos.

The verdict was rendered on February 11, 2016, however it was not announced until later because the jury found by clear and convincing evidence two Fluor subsidiaries acted with malice and a conscious disregard for the health and safety of others. This necessitated a phase two of the trial regarding the amount of punitive damages to be assessed. The case was resolved prior to the jury rendering a verdict on the amount of punitive damages.

The defendants were the Fluor Corporation and two subsidiaries, Fluor Enterprises, Inc., and Middle East Fluor, according to Weitz & Luxenberg.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs presented insurmountable evidence against Fluor Corporation and two of the Irving, Texas-based multinational engineering and construction firm's subsidiary companies during the trial held in a Los Angeles County Superior Court.

Non-Economic Damages Alone Totaled $4.95 Million:

The verdict declared a finding of malice for the two subsidiaries, but not for the parent company, the law firm clarified. The non-economic damages award alone totaled more than $4.95 million, and the economic damages award slightly exceeded a quarter of a million dollars, Weitz & Luxenberg indicated.

The plaintiff - a longtime Orange County resident - alleged the defendants exposed him to asbestos while he was working in various departments at the Abadan Oil Refinery in Iran, beginning in the early 1950s and continuing until 1979, the law firm said.

The Fluor defendants were alleged to have built two major refinery units, a Catalytic Reformer (aka Unifiner-Platformer) in the early 1960s and a Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) in the late 1970s, the law firm indicated. The Fluor defendants were alleged to have used asbestos-containing products, including insulation, without taking any precautions to protect the refinery workers, Weitz & Luxenberg reported.

Additionally, it was illegal in the United States to install asbestos insulation at the time Fluor was alleged to have installed insulation on the CDU project in Iran, the law firm noted. It was also alleged that Fluor had leftover asbestos insulation from a prior project the company sold into the CDU project to maximize profit without regard for the health and safety of the refinery workers, Weitz & Luxenberg said.

"This verdict represents an enormous victory for our client," said Benno Ashrafi, managing attorney of Weitz & Luxenberg's Los Angeles office and one of the plaintiffs' co-counsels at trial.

Lead trial counsel, Mark Bratt, said "the fact that the jury saw through the smoke and mirrors defense is a huge testament to our jury system. These were 12 jurors who attentively listened to 14 days of testimony and rendered a verdict consistent with the evidence."

Asbestos Exposure Causes Mesothelioma:

Mesothelioma is a rare but very aggressive cancer that strikes the tissues lining the cavity of the chest or abdomen. It is caused by inhaling tiny fibers of the mineral asbestos, Ashrafi noted.

Once inside the body, the fibers remain trapped there. Mesothelioma does not erupt immediately afterward, however. "It can take one, two or even five decades before onset occurs," Ashrafi said.

Then, the disease takes its toll quickly. "Without treatment, a mesothelioma victim can live only a matter of months," he said. "With treatment, it is possible to extend survival for months or maybe a couple of years. But it can be - as was the case with our client - a life of pain and suffering, coupled with extremely high costs of medical care."

All of these factors weighed into the final verdict against the defendants, and damages were awarded accordingly, Ashrafi offered.

"The jury also found that there was clear and convincing evidence that two of the three Fluor defendants (i.e., Fluor Enterprises, Inc., and Middle East Fluor) acted with malice toward the plaintiff. That is, they acted with a conscious disregard for the health and safety of others," Bratt noted.

"One of the most compelling pieces of evidence was a Fluor memorandum lobbying for relaxed asbestos policies at the refineries in Iran, after it was illegal to use and install asbestos insulation in the United States. This verdict, and especially the finding of malice, was a statement by the jury that Fluor and similar companies cannot put profits ahead of safety," Bratt explained.

The case was heard in the Santa Monica courthouse of Los Angeles County Superior Court, with the Hon. Chester Horn presiding, Ashrafi said.

During the three-week trial, Bratt called 20 witnesses to the stand. Ashrafi recounted, "Mark was able to walk jurors through a very complicated, document-intensive case. Attorney Venus Burns proved to be instrumental in helping try the case, and we received excellent support from the rest of our team both here and in the New York office," Ashrafi pointed out.

"A number of our witnesses were among the foremost experts in the fields of mesothelioma and asbestos diseases," he noted. "Their testimony was extremely persuasive."

So was Bratt's closing argument, which Ashrafi described as "powerful," "compelling" and "deeply emotionally moving."

"The defense disputed everything except for the fact that the plaintiff was dying from mesothelioma," Bratt said. "And the defense called zero witnesses."

About Weitz & Luxenberg:

Weitz & Luxenberg P.C. is among the nation's leading and most readily recognized personal injury and consumer protection law firms. Weitz & Luxenberg's numerous litigation areas include: mesothelioma, defective medicine and devices, environmental pollutants, products liability, consumer protection, accidents, personal injury and medical malpractice. Victims of consumer fraud are invited to rely on Weitz & Luxenberg's more than 25 years of experience handling such cases. You can contact the firm's Client Relations department at 800-476-6070 or at info@weitzlux.com.

More information: http://www.weitzlux.com/ .

Twitter: @WeitzLuxenberg

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/weitz-luxenberg-secures-5-2-million-verdict-finding-malice-in-asbestos-lawsuit-against-fluor-and-subsidiaries-2016-0219-03.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Weitz and Luxenberg P.C. :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

First of Its Kind National Study Examines Economic, Social, and Fiscal Impacts of State Prevailing Wage Laws

State Prevailing Wage Laws

CHICAGO, Ill., Feb. 9, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- As policy debates rage in states from Michigan and New Hampshire to New Mexico and West Virginia, researchers from the Illinois Economic Policy Institute, Colorado State University-Pueblo, and Smart Cities Prevail have just completed the first ever national study on the economic, social, and project cost impacts of state prevailing wage laws.

Prevailing wage laws govern the wage rates paid to construction workers on government-funded public works projects.

The Report, entitled "The Economic, Fiscal, and Social Impacts of State Prevailing Wage Laws: Choosing Between the High Road and the Low Road in the Construction Industry," utilizes industry standard IMPLAN modeling software and industry comparisons between states with and without prevailing wage laws to assess the impact of these policies on a variety of economic and social factors: including job creation, wages, worksite productivity, rates of in-state contracting, impacts on taxpayers, reliance on government assistance programs, and effects on communities of color and veterans.

A Fact Sheet Summarizing the Report's Findings May be Found Here: http://www.smartcitiesprevail.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Report-Fact-Sheet-for-the-Impacts-of-State-Prevailing-Wage-Laws.2016FINAL.pdf .

The Full Report May be Downloaded Here: http://www.smartcitiesprevail.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/PW-national-impact-study-FINAL2.9.16.pdf .

"Our study confirms that states without prevailing wage laws not only undermine workmanship, productivity, and workforce development programs that promote construction career pathways for racial minorities and veterans, but millions more is spent in these states on food stamps, EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit), and public forms of insurance for low income blue-collar construction workers, with smaller overall economic output, higher income inequality, and millions less in tax revenue," said study co-author and Colorado State University Economist Kevin Duncan. "If all the states with prevailing wage laws in place were to repeal, they could expect to see similar trends, with 400,000 lost jobs, a $65 billion reduction in our national economy, and a loss of $8 billion in tax revenue."

The report also examines - for the first time - the existing body of research that has been presented on both sides of the issue related to the impact of prevailing wage policies on overall project costs. In doing so, it makes an important distinction between research that has undergone peer review, and that which has not, concluding that 75 percent of recent peer-reviewed studies find that construction costs are not affected by prevailing wages.

"Our research shows that the debate around the cost impact of prevailing wage policies, in many ways, mirrors the debate on policy questions like climate change - where some policy makers rely on ideological bias or an incomplete understanding of an industry to promote conclusions that are simply not supported by academic consensus," said study co-author Alex Lantsberg. "We found that the non-peer reviewed studies that suggest cost savings from prevailing wage repeal tend to focus exclusively on wage differences, which ignore the fact that prevailing wage standards dramatically reduce material and fuel expenditures and reliance on taxpayer-funded welfare assistance, while increasing worksite productivity."

This study follows individual, peer-reviewed state analyses that Duncan, Lantsberg, and Manzo completed last year amidst state battles over construction wage policies in Wisconsin, Michigan, and California.

While Wisconsin voted to severely weaken its prevailing wage standard, California moved to strengthen its laws and a citizen petition to force a repeal in Michigan failed. Proponents of repeal in Michigan have vowed to mount a similar petition drive again in 2016.

"In many ways, our research shows why state-level prevailing wage standards were first introduced by Republicans, and have long enjoyed bi-partisan support from leaders as ideologically diverse as California Governor Jerry Brown and Speaker of the House Paul Ryan," added study co-author Frank Manzo IV. "To be sure, there are financially motivated interests on both sides of this issue, but the facts clearly argue for prevailing wage policies as the best bet for taxpayers, workers, businesses, and the economy as a whole."

The Illinois Economic Policy Institute is a non-partisan research and education nonprofit focused on issues affecting Illinois and the Midwest, including infrastructure investment and the construction industry. Learn more at http://illinoisepi.org/ or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/IllinoisEPI.

Smart Cities Prevail is a leading construction industry research and educational organization, specializing in studying the costs and benefits of prevailing wage policies. Learn more at http://www.smartcitiesprevail.org/ - or follow us on https://www.facebook.com/SmartCitiesPrevail and https://twitter.com/cacitiesprevail.

Dr. Kevin Duncan, Ph.D. is a Professor of Economics in the Hasan School of Business at Colorado State University - Pueblo and Senior Economist at BCD Economics, LLC. Over the last 30 years, Duncan has become one of the nation's foremost experts on the impact of prevailing wage policies, testifying before numerous legislative committees, advising government agencies, and publishing dozens of peer reviewed studies and over 40 public policy papers on the subject.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Todd Stenhouse
toddstenhouse@gmail.com

Twitter: @CAcitiesprevail @IllinoisEPI

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/16-0209-SmartCitiesPrevail-300dpi.jpg

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/first-of-its-kind-national-study-examines-economic-social-and-fiscal-impacts-of-state-prevailing-wage-laws-2016-0209-04.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Smart Cities Prevail :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Integrated Comfort Expands Operations and Develops Enhanced Monitoring and Controls Internet Dashboard

DualCool HVAC

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Jan. 21, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Integrated Comfort, Inc. (ICI) has expanded. In June 2015, ICI moved from Vacaville, Calif. to a larger office and production facility in West Sacramento, Calif. ICI also opened a facility in Phoenix, Arizona to provide manufacturing and logistical support in one of our higher concentration areas for DualCool installations.

Between July 2015 and January 2016, ICI completed the installation of DualCool(R) evaporative pre-coolers on 100 more Walmart and Sam's Club stores. Each of these stores now has DualCool equipment on six or more 10- to 20-ton rooftop HVAC units (RTUs) that supply dedicated fresh air into the stores. Installations were in Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Texas, Nevada, and California. The 2015 program is the fourth major series of DualCool installations for Walmart.

The current campaign with Walmart takes DualCool efficiency, maintenance, and ease-of-use to a whole new level with monitoring and controls. For this program, ICI added remote monitoring and control technology with a web-based (dashboard) platform viewable from any browser, smartphone, or tablet. Remote monitoring outputs include fault detection, which can report general HVAC problems on DualCool-equipped RTUs before store conditions are affected.

Working with Transformative Wave, ICI customized an enhanced controls solution for Walmart. Equipment includes a microcontroller installed on each of the DualCool-enabled RTUs, as well as each Air Handling Unit (AHU), when present. One microcontroller per building functions as the Master Controller. This unit is located near the "global" outdoor air thermostat used to activate all DualCool units at an adjustable temperature setpoint. The Master Controller is the Wi-Fi communication hub between all DualCool controllers onsite.

In addition to managing the DualCool pump, these microcontrollers manage a number of interlocks between DualCool and key RTU components and can continuously adjust to supply outdoor air in the most efficient manner.

"Our eIQ platform controllers are a perfect fit for Integrated Comfort's DualCool requirements to deliver significant energy savings to large retail stores," states Justin Sipe, SVP of Technology for Transformative Wave. "We were very excited to partner with Integrated Comfort on their 2015 Walmart project, because we both have great products, which combined, provide a game-changing, user-friendly management dashboard affording huge cooling cost savings."

This 2015 Walmart program also implements real-time performance reporting that uses monitored parameters to compute hour-by-hour DualCool benefits. Outputs include both demand reduction (kW reduced) and energy savings (kWh saved). By combining these savings reports with electric utility rate data, the new monitoring dashboard can continuously compute electricity cost savings to Walmart.

"ICI has been proud to provide Walmart with enterprise cooling efficiency solutions since 2011. Our 2015 campaign has been the most exciting to date, based on the introduction of real-time fault detection and energy savings analytics," states Steve Short, Integrated Comfort's General Manager. "This new platform exponentially increases our ability to support our customer, and demonstrate our value."

Company Information:
Integrated Comfort Inc. is a privately held California corporation that develops and markets energy-efficient cooling products and systems.

More information: http://www.icidualcool.com/.

Integrated Comfort, Inc., 840 Embarcadero Drive, #40, West Sacramento, CA 95605.

Media Contact Information:
Steve Short, General Manager
916-246-8864 (phone)
916-848-0542 (fax)
sshort[at]icidualcool.com

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Twitter: @ICI_DualCool #HVAC #DualCool

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NEWS SOURCE Integrated Comfort Inc. :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

EPIC adds Southeast Region Risk Consultant Ken Glanton

Ken Glanton

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Jan. 13, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that Ken Glanton has joined the firm's Birmingham-based National Energy Construction Practice as a Risk Consultant. Glanton joins a rapidly growing team of risk management and insurance professionals serving larger, complex construction and energy companies across the country.

Glanton brings nearly 10 years of successful sales, business development and consulting experience to EPIC. Across the first three years of his career while at Integrated Medical Systems, Glanton ranked #6 among 82 sales people nationally. He was later responsible for launching a 5-state southeast territory for EquipSystems, LLC, where he issued nearly a million dollars in new service contracts in the first year of this assignment.

Glanton comes to EPIC from commercial insurance broker Assured Neace Lukens in Nashville, Tennessee, where he provided consultative services in the development, implementation and oversight of strategic risk management programs for large and mid-sized companies.

EPIC Birmingham's managing principal Crawford McInnis noted, "Ken is a respected business development and consulting professional with proven sales success and experience utilizing innovative consultative strategies. Adding Ken to our team further broadens the scope of expertise and service we provide to our clients."

"The Birmingham team strengthens EPIC's national platform serving contractors, energy companies and oil and gas distribution contractors," said Derek Thomas, EPIC Chief Strategy Officer and co-leader of EPIC's Specialty Practices and Program Group. "We look forward to developing additional strategic initiatives with Ken as we further build out EPIC's consulting services platform in Birmingham and across the country."

Glanton earned both a Bachelor's degree in History and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Ken Glanton can be reached at:
EPIC
205-581-3345 direct
615-955-0389 cell
ken.glanton[at]epicbrokers.com

About EPIC:

EPIC is a unique and innovative retail property & casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm. EPIC has created a values-based, client-focused culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and loyalty and sustains a high level of customer service excellence. EPIC team members have consistently recognized their company as a "Best Place to Work" in multiple regions across California and as a "Best Place to Work in the Insurance Industry" nationally.

EPIC now has more than 850 team members operating from offices across the U.S., providing Property Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs and Private Client solutions to more than 13,000 clients. For additional information, please visit http://www.epicbrokers.com/.

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*Photo Caption: Ken Glanton.

Twitter: @EPIC_Insurance

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/epic-adds-southeast-region-risk-consultant-ken-glanton-2016-0113-01.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Kurt Emans joins Energy Optimizers, USA, as senior project manager

Kurt Emans

TIPP CITY, Ohio, Sept. 14, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Kurt Emans has joined Energy Optimizers, USA, as a senior project manager, effective September 1, 2015.

In this role, he will take the lead in implementing projects in the field, including developing full-scale project plans; defining project scope, goals and deliverables; and ensuring projects meet overall client expectations.

"With his years of applied experience and management expertise, Kurt is going to be a valuable addition to our team and an asset for our clients," said Bob Hausmann, chief operating officer for Energy Optimizers, USA.

Emans brings more than 15 years' experience in commercial real estate rehabilitation, development and design and has been recognized locally and nationally for rehabilitation projects and state-of-the-art project designs in the city of Lima. He has experience in process improvement and is a veteran of the United States Air Force. He also taught advanced business management systems, budgeting, forecasting, mathematics and computer science at the University of Northwestern Ohio.

Emans holds a Master of Business Administration from Bluffton University. He is certified in ISO 9000 - Quality Manufacturing & Documentation, Lean Manufacturing, Material Flow Manufacturing Concepts and Six-Sigma Process Improvement. He is also an FAA-certified air traffic controller.

About Energy Optimizers, USA:

Energy Optimizers, USA works with educational, governmental, commercial and industrial customers to implement energy savings opportunities to reduce operational costs, including lighting retrofits, renewable energy projects (wind and solar), HVAC retrofit projects, building automation retrofits and energy education programs. The company is ranked in the Top 500 of INC. Magazine's list of 5,000 fastest growing companies in the U.S. (2014), was named the Fastest Growing Company in the region for two consecutive years by the Dayton Business Journal (2013, 2014), and was named a BBB Eclipse Integrity Award Finalist (2012).

To learn more about Energy Optimizers, USA, visit their website at http://energyoptusa.com/ or call them at (937) 877-1919.

TWITTER: @EoptimizeUSA

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/kurt-emans-joins-energy-optimizers-usa-as-senior-project-manager-2015-0914-01.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Energy Optimizers, USA :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Schools partners with Energy Optimizers, USA, to become first school district in Ohio with all LED lighting retrofits

TIPP CITY, Ohio, July 15, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Through its partnership with energy services firm Energy Optimizers, USA, Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Schools has become the first school district in Ohio to retrofit all interior and exterior lighting to LED.

LED lighting is valued for its efficiency and long life, which reduces both utility and maintenance costs. The new LED components will provide an average 60 percent reduction in energy use compared with the systems being replaced, which include fluorescent, halogen, incandescent and metal halide lighting systems. The energy savings will be complemented by a significant reduction in maintenance costs, noted Doug Trimbach, vice president of lighting services for Energy Optimizers, USA.

"The interior LED lighting systems have a performance life twice that of the fluorescent systems they are replacing, and the exterior LED components have a performance life four times that of the units they are replacing," said Trimbach. "That translates into fewer replacement parts being purchased, and it also means the maintenance staff can concentrate on other areas of operation."

Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Schools made the transition to an all-LED school as part of a $1.8 million energy conservation project that is expected to generate at least $222,382 in savings annually. The project also includes replacing some aging boilers and chillers with more energy efficient equipment, adding energy- saving features to the kitchens, and enhancing the buildings' temperature controls. The district expects to see a payback on these improvements in less than 10 years.

"We launched this project because we are committed to making the best, most cost-effective use of tax dollars possible," said Superintendent Dr. Keith St. Pierre. "Moving to all-LED lighting made sense. We wanted to take a proactive approach to energy savings and put in place the latest technology, rather than continue to rely on lighting systems that are-or will soon be-obsolete."

Funding for the project is provided through the Ohio School Facilities Commission's House Bill 264 (HB264) program, enabling the district to make these cost-cutting improvements at no expense to taxpayers. Under the HB 264 program, the energy savings cover the cost of the financing used to fund the projects.

"This is a very substantial and concrete commitment by the district's school board and administration to the students and taxpayers of their community," said State Representative Richard Perales. "The district will be positioned for both immediate and long-term financial savings, all of which will benefit the students and, by extension, taxpayers."

"I'm proud to represent such a forward-thinking district," Perales added. "It is innovative solutions like these that make our region stand out."

While the all-LED lighting will pay for itself through reduced utility and maintenance costs, it will also yield attractive energy rebates. With the assistance of Energy Optimizers, USA, the district obtained DRG3 Green Business Certification on seven of its buildings in April. The certification will increase the standard DP&L energy conservation rebates by up to 150 percent and earn the district additional rebates through DP&L, netting a significant savings. The rebates, combined with Energy Optimizers, USA's ability to purchase LED lighting at factory direct pricing, brought the project in line with the district's budget.

"This project will net Bellbrook-Sugarcreek some of the best rebates available in Ohio," said Trimbach. "This is a great head start on the yearly savings this district will see thanks to its smart approach to energy conservation."

About Energy Optimizers, USA:

Energy Optimizers, USA works with educational, governmental, commercial and industrial customers to implement energy savings opportunities to reduce operational costs, including lighting retrofits, renewable energy projects (wind and solar), HVAC retrofit projects, building automation retrofits and energy education programs. The company is ranked in the Top 500 of INC. Magazine's list of 5,000 fastest growing companies in the U.S. (2014), was named the Fastest Growing Company in the region for two consecutive years by the Dayton Business Journal (2013, 2014), and was named a BBB Eclipse Integrity Award Finalist (2012). To learn more about Energy Optimizers, USA, visit their website at http://energyoptusa.com/ or call them at (937) 877-1919.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/bellbrook-sugarcreek-schools-partners-with-energy-optimizers-usa-to-become-first-school-district-in-ohio-with-all-led-lighting-retrofits-2015-0715-04.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Energy Optimizers, USA :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

New Study: Michigan Prevailing Wage Repeal Will Kill Jobs and Hamper Economy

Midwest Economic Policy Institute

LANSING, Mich., June 29, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Just completed research by the Midwest Economic Policy Institute, Colorado State University Economist Kevin Duncan and Smart Cities Prevail - a leading construction industry research organization - has revealed that Michigan's proposed prevailing wage repeal would eliminate more than 11,000 jobs, $1.7 billion in economic output, $28 million in local and state tax revenue, and will export nearly $700 million in construction investments out of state every year.

The report, entitled "The Cost of Repealing Michigan's Prevailing Wage Policy: Impacts on Total Construction Costs and Economic Activity," can be downloaded here (PDF): http://goo.gl/SIfCGc.

The study uses a growing body of peer reviewed research, data from the Economic Census of Construction, and industry standard IMPLAN software to analyze the impact of prevailing wage standards on overall project costs and model the economic impact of spending shifts that would result from repeal of Michigan's prevailing wage law. These spending shifts ultimately impact job creation, as well as local and state tax revenue and rates of in-state contracting.

"Comparing data from prevailing wage and non-prevailing wage states shows repeal of the standard in Michigan will be a bad bargain for taxpayers," said study co-author Frank Manzo of the Midwest Economic Policy Institute. "There are no savings because reductions in construction wages are offset by decreases in workforce productivity, less worksite efficiency, and increased spending on energy and materials."

The study also demonstrates a significant economic "ripple effect" that would result from repeal. Not just from lower wages and less spending by Michigan's construction workers, but also because non-prevailing wage states utilize more out-of-state contractors.

"Every sector of the economy would feel the impact of prevailing wage repeal," said study Co-Author and Colorado State University Economist Kevin Duncan. "This would be a self-inflicted wound that suppresses economic activity, exports hundreds of millions of construction dollars out of state, and puts thousands of people out of work."

Dr. Duncan noted that these impacts would ultimately create additional burdens for state and local government, and by extension, Michigan's taxpayers.

"Less economic activity and fewer people working for lower wages translates to more reliance on public assistance programs and lower tax revenues," Duncan added. "There are only two ways to close that gap-raising taxes or making even deeper cuts to vital public services."

This is the third prevailing wage economic impact study in as many months that Dr. Duncan has co-authored, along with Smart Cities Prevail Researcher Alex Lantsberg.

"There is a reason why prevailing wage policies have stood the test of time and have long been embraced by leaders in both political parties-including Michigan's Republican Governor Rick Snyder," added Lantsberg. "Our goal is to ensure that voters and policy makers have the facts they need to make informed decisions that reflect the best interests of taxpayers and the economy as a whole-and our research shows that repeal of prevailing wage falls far short of that standard."

Recent polling shows that Michigan's prevailing wage law is supported by 60% of voters, including a majority of Democrats and Independents and a plurality of Republicans.

Frank Manzo IV, MPP is the Policy Director of the Midwest Economic Policy Institute, a division of the Illinois Economic Policy Institute.

Kevin Duncan, Ph.D. is a Professor of Economics in the Hasan School of Business at Colorado State University - Pueblo and Senior Economist at BCD Economics, LLC.

Alex Lantsberg, MCP, AICP is a Researcher with Smart Cities Prevail and a member of the American Institute for City Planning.

The Midwest Economic Policy Institute is a non-profit, non-partisan research and education organization focused on issues affecting Midwestern economies, including infrastructure investment and the construction industry. Learn more at http://illinoisepi.org/midwest-economic-policy-institute/.

Smart Cities Prevail is a leading construction industry research and educational organization, specializing in studying the costs and benefits of prevailing wage policies. Learn more at http://www.smartcitiesprevail.org/.

Twitter: @CaCitiesPrevail

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/new-study-michigan-prevailing-wage-repeal-will-kill-jobs-and-hamper-economy-2015-0629-02.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Smart Cities Prevail :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Oak Hills Local Schools expects to save at least $373,000 annually through partnership with Energy Optimizers, USA

Oak Hills High School

TIPP CITY, Ohio, March 31, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Oak Hills Local Schools partnered with Energy Optimizers, USA, to launch an ambitious $4 million energy conservation project, expected to generate at least $373,835 in savings annually. The savings will be recognized in the district's general fund on utility and related maintenance costs, assuming usage consumption and utility rates remain at current levels. The district will issue debt payments of approximately $330,000 over a 15-year period from their Permanent Improvement Fund to pay for the project.

The project, which includes a solar thermal system to heat the Oak Hills High School swimming pool, will improve the comfort, control and reliability of the district's HVAC and lighting systems while significantly reducing operational costs. In total, 11 buildings will be improved, including the district's central office and the bus garage.

"As a leader in education, it is incumbent on us to also take a leadership role in making smart investments in smart energy," said Superintendent Todd Yohey. "This project will not only save our taxpayers dollars, it will put us firmly at the leading edge of using energy management technologies."

Energy efficient measures will include:
* Replacement of interior lighting with more efficient lamps and the removal of unneeded lamps to cut waste
* Replacement of exterior lighting with LED technology to improve energy efficiency while enhancing building safety, appearance and security
* Installation of energy efficient kitchen measures
* Controls commissioning, repairs, upgrades, integration and advanced energy management controls programming
* Installation of a solar thermal system to heat the swimming pool
* Installation of block heater controls for the bus terminals.

Projected energy savings are guaranteed for three years, and the dollars saved will be used for educational purposes.

"Building systems are becoming more efficient; it just makes sense to take advantage of these improvements to make our operations as cost-effective as possible," said Director of Operations John Beckemeyer. "On top of that, we expect our buildings will be more comfortable and our systems more reliable."

The project will also integrate the Energy Star Portfolio Manager system to model and track the current and on-going energy usage and performance of the school district.

"In our classrooms, we stress innovation and real-world experience," said Yohey. "What better way to expose students to both than through an energy-management project that will allow students to view the energy performance of their buildings in real time while learning more about STEM-based careers?"

Energy Optimizers, USA, also makes education a component to the majority of its public school energy conservation projects. As such, it will fund the launch of a Green Team to educate students about energy management concepts and careers in STEM fields.

"We are dedicated to helping our clients reduce their energy costs, and that's all about education, every step of the way," said Energy Optimizers, USA Founder and President Greg Smith. "It's about helping our clients understand what options make the most sense for them. But it's also about educating the next generation of leaders in STEM fields. That's why we believe so strongly in helping students bridge their classroom studies with career options."

In addition to funding the team for two years, Energy Optimizers, USA, will provide Ohio Energy Project academic materials that are aligned to Ohio's academic content standards. Green Team members will take part in STEM-related activities that are focused on energy conservation, while encouraging their peers to become more environmentally conscious.

About Energy Optimizers, USA:

Energy Optimizers, USA works with educational, governmental, commercial and industrial customers to implement energy savings opportunities to reduce operational costs, including lighting retrofits, renewable energy projects (wind and solar), HVAC retrofit projects, building automation retrofits and energy education programs. The company is ranked in the Top 500 of INC. Magazine's list of the 5,000 fastest growing companies in the U.S. (2014), was named the Fastest Growing Company in the region for two consecutive years by the Dayton Business Journal (2013, 2014), and was named a BBB Eclipse Integrity Award Finalist (2012).

To learn more about Energy Optimizers, USA, visit their website at http://energyoptusa.com or call them at (937) 877-1919.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/oak-hills-local-schools-expects-to-save-at-least-373-000-annually-through-partnership-energy-optimizers-usa-2015-0331-008.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Energy Optimizers, USA :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

SunBug Solar Wins SunPower 2014 ‘Commercial Regional Dealer of the Year’ Award

solar energy solutions

ARLINGTON, Mass., March 23, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- SunBug Solar, an Arlington- and Somerville-based solar installer and SunPower Commercial Dealer, has received the SunPower "Commercial Regional Dealer of the Year" award for its outstanding performance in 2014.

"SunBug is honored to receive the 2014 'Commercial Regional Dealer of the Year' award from SunPower for our success providing the world's highest efficiency solar systems and superior customer service to business owners," said Cheney Brand, CEO of SunBug. "Partnering with SunPower allows us to offer our customers industry-leading solar technology and significant electricity savings over the life of their systems."

The "Commercial Regional Dealer of the Year" award honors SunPower commercial dealers that demonstrate exceptional customer service, premier system design and installation practices, as well as expert solar knowledge and leadership in their region of North America. SunPower's best-in-class dealer program supports a network of more than 1,200 solar installers worldwide, with approximately 500 located in the United States.

"We congratulate SunBug for their extraordinary performance in 2014, delivering a level of quality and commitment to excellence exceeding our expectations," said Howard Wenger, SunPower president, business units. "SunBug Solar is raising the bar by helping more customers achieve their energy goals with SunPower solar products and services, and we look forward to their continued success in 2015."

SunBug has been a consistent and engaged SunPower partner since 2011, and prides itself on successfully delivering SunPower's high efficiency, high reliability solar energy solutions to customers in the local market. SunBug's signature project in 2014 featuring SunPower solar technology was a 300-kilowatt rooftop system designed with 920 SunPower panels for the new flagship Boston Harley-Davidson dealership in Revere, Mass.

For more information on SunBug Solar, call 617-500-3938 or visit http://www.sunbugsolar.com/ .

About SunBug Solar:

SunBug Solar is a solar energy consulting and installation company based in Somerville and Arlington, Mass., offering turnkey solar solutions to commercial, residential and not-for profit clients. Our integrated approach incorporates site analysis, system design, incentive processing and system monitoring, allowing our team of professionals to anticipate questions and challenges while managing a project from start to finish. With six years in operation and over 500 projects deployed in Massachusetts, our experience and practical approach allows SunBug to always deliver on time, on schedule, and on budget.

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Twitter: @sunbugsolar

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/sunbug-solar-wins-sunpower-2014-commercial-regional-dealer-of-the-year-award-2015-0323-003.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE SunBug Solar :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Economic Recovery Contributes to Increase in Renovations: Bathrooms and Kitchens Remain Favorite Remodeling Projects

Remodel or Move

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Feb. 11, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The latest US Remodeling Sentiment Report from Remodel or Move (remodelormove.com) indicated that the continued economic recovery has favorably affected homeowners. Homeowner respondents report their average home equity is now over $165,000, up from $115,000 in 2013, which combined with continued low interest rates and pent-up demand for home repair and improvements, is fueling growth. The size of an average remodel has gone up from 3.4 rooms in 2013 to 5.3 rooms in 2015.

"Bathroom and kitchen remodels remain the most popular improvements homeowners intend to make this year, but in stark contrast to previous years, the number of other rooms that homeowners plan to add or remodel has grown significantly," said Dan Fritschen, principal report author at remodelormove.com.

"The dramatic increase in home equity and consumer confidence combined with the projects that homeowners postponed during the recession has fueled a move toward remodels and home additions that are of larger scope and scale than in past years."

Even with the significant increase in the size of remodels - the DIY spirit is strong with close to 60% of homeowners planning to do some of the remodeling work themselves. The increase in home equity creates a wealth affect that drives the percent of homeowners who report they will use expensive materials up to 23% of respondents from a low of 10% in 2010 at the depths of the recession.

First published in 2005, the US Remodeling Sentiment Report is published by the popular website remodelormove.com. The report has 10 years of data containing millions of data points from U.S. homeowners, which are used to document and project homeowners remodeling preferences.

http://www.remodelormove.com/ has provided the information homeowners need to make savvy remodeling and moving decisions, reduce stress and get more for the money they invest in - remodeling their current home or moving to a home that better meets their needs.

Specific findings from the Spring 2015 US Remodeling Sentiment Report:
Average Home Equity:$165,000
Average Value of Home Before Remodel:$353,000
Average Estimated Cost of Remodel:$151,000
Average Number of Rooms to be remodeled or added:5.3
Percentage of Homeowners who report they will:
Do a lot of the work themselves20%
Do a little of the work themselves39%
Do none of the work themselves41%
Use Expensive materials23%
Use Economy Materials5%

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/economic-recovery-contributes-increase-renovations-bathrooms-kitchens-remain-favorite-remodeling-projects-2015-0211-004.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE ABCD Publishing LLC :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Energy Optimizers, USA sells lighting affiliate Lighting Optimizers, USA to focus on core business

Greg Smith

TIPP CITY, Ohio, Jan. 26, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The owners of Energy Optimizers, USA have sold its affiliate company, Lighting Optimizers, USA, to Eco Engineering. This decision was made to ensure continued world-class service for Energy Optimizers' clients, while allowing the company to focus on and expand its core business of vendor-neutral energy efficiency projects for the educational, governmental, commercial and industrial markets.

Eco Engineering has acquired all of the assets of Lighting Optimizers, USA, and will become the principal provider of lighting design and upgrade services to Energy Optimizers, USA. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. Nearly 100% of Lighting Optimizers, USA's associates were hired as full-time associates by Eco Engineering.

Greg Smith, president of Energy Optimizers, USA, and wife Stephanie founded Lighting Optimizers, USA, in 2011 to provide turnkey, professional lighting retrofit design and installation services for Energy Optimizers. Both companies, Energy Optimizers and Lighting Optimizers, have experienced tremendous growth in the past few years, topping numerous lists for fastest growing companies including Forbes Magazine's Inc. 500 Fastest Growing Companies in the United States.

"We realized that we needed to step back and focus on the core business, but not until we found a partner that could provide the same standards of quality, professionalism, competitive pricing and innovation that we demand of ourselves for our customers," Smith said.

Lighting is Eco Engineering's specialty, and Eco Engineering will become Energy Optimizers' partner in managing the lighting portion of their energy management agreements. "The services Eco Engineering provides are a natural fit for us," Smith said. "By combining the buying power of the two companies, we will be able to provide our customers the most competitive pricing while utilizing high quality products and service for our Energy Optimizers customers."

Both companies are working together to ensure that all current projects are completed as promised and to meet client expectations for satisfaction.

"There will be no change to clients in the pricing, implementation, warranty or management of current or proposed projects." said Bob Hausmann, Senior Project Manager for Energy Optimizers, USA.

Energy Optimizers, USA has experienced rapid growth since the business began in 2009. The company is ranked in the Top 500 of INC. Magazine's list of 5,000 fastest growing companies in the U.S. (2014) and was named the Fastest Growing Company in the region for two consecutive years by the Dayton Business Journal (2013, 2014).

Energy Optimizers, USA will expand its reach into the K-12 and higher education markets throughout the Midwest while delving more deeply into the local government, commercial and industrial markets. To date, customers have saved more than $8.4 million in energy costs while improving their facilities and protecting the environment. The companies eclipsed $14 million in revenue in 2014 and seek to reach $20 million in revenue by 2016.

About Energy Optimizers, USA:

Energy Optimizers, USA works with educational, governmental, commercial and industrial customers to implement energy savings opportunities to reduce operational costs, including lighting retrofits, renewable energy projects (wind and solar), HVAC retrofit projects, building automation retrofits and energy education programs. The company is ranked in Top 500 of INC. Magazine's list of the 5,000 fastest growing companies in the U.S. (2014), was named the Fastest Growing Company in the region for two consecutive years by the Dayton Business Journal (2013, 2014), and was named a BBB Eclipse Integrity Award Finalist (2012).

To learn more about Energy Optimizers, USA, visit their website at http://energyoptusa.com/ or call them at (937) 877-1919.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/energy-optimizers-usa-sells-lighting-affiliate-lighting-optimizers-usa-to-focus-on-core-business-2015-01-0126-004.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Energy Optimizers, USA :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Cambridge City Schools expects to save more than $133,000 annually through partnership with Energy Optimizers, USA

Cambridge City Schools

TIPP CITY, Ohio, Jan. 7, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Cambridge City Schools has partnered with Energy Optimizers, USA, to complete an energy conservation project that is expected to save the district $133,111 annually, allowing for more dollars to be directed to students and classrooms.

Cambridge City Schools will upgrade the lighting, building controls and air filtration systems at all seven of its buildings, placing the district firmly ahead of the curve for energy efficiency and improved air and lighting quality. Funding is provided through the Ohio School Facilities Commission's House Bill 264 program, enabling the district to make these cost-cutting improvements at no expense to taxpayers.

"Cambridge City Schools is pleased to be working with Energy Optimizers on a HB264 project to reduce energy costs by improving lighting and installing energy saving updates to our heating and air conditioning systems," said Superintendent Dennis Dettra. "We will see savings in both electric and gas consumption for many years to come, saving our taxpayers more than $133,000 a year."

As part of the project, Energy Optimizers, USA, will:
* Replace interior lighting with more efficient lamps and remove unneeded lamps to cut waste;
* Replace exterior lighting with LED technology to improve energy efficiency while enhancing building safety, appearance and security;
* Install advanced energy management controls to provide real-time, web-based monitoring and management of the district's HVAC systems;
* Install dynamic air filtration systems to improve indoor air quality and decrease maintenance- and energy-related costs;
* Install energy-saving features to the kitchen exhaust fans and coolers
* Add IT enhancements to reduce the electronic plug load;
* Fund an educational Green Team to promote STEM principles in the classroom.

The project is expected to be completed in the spring of 2015. Projected energy savings are guaranteed, and the payback for the upgrades is just over 11 years.

"Projects like these are relatively simple common-sense improvements, but they have an enormous impact on schools and their stakeholders," said Bob Hausmann, Director of Operations for Energy Optimizers, USA. "By improving their energy efficiency, Cambridge City Schools will be able to direct more dollars away from the utilities and into the classroom, where they will better serve students and taxpayers. The project will also transform these buildings into energy management labs that will hopefully inspire our next generation of engineers and scientists."

That's because the partnership includes the resources to launch a Green Team, an energy education effort that Energy Optimizers, USA, promotes in all of its school-related energy conservation projects. In addition to funding the team for two years, Energy Optimizers, USA will provide Ohio Energy Project academic materials that are aligned to Ohio's academic content standards. Green Team members will take part in STEM-related activities that are focused on energy conservation, while encouraging their peers to become more environmentally conscious.

Energy Optimizers, USA, has completed similar projects for 53 school districts around the state of Ohio, delivering more than $20 million in vendor-neutral energy savings projects. The company is ranked as the fastest growing company in the Dayton region and placed in the Top 500 of Inc. Magazine's list of 5,000 fastest growing companies in the United States.

About Energy Optimizers, USA:

Energy Optimizers, USA works with Ohio school districts and government agencies to implement energy savings opportunities to reduce operational costs, including lighting retrofits, renewable energy projects (wind and solar), HVAC retrofit projects, building automation retrofits and energy education programs. The company is ranked in Top 500 of INC. Magazine's list of 5,000 fastest growing companies in the U.S. (2014), was named the Fastest Growing Company in the region for two consecutive years by the Dayton Business Journal (2013, 2014), and was named a BBB Eclipse Integrity Award Finalist (2012).

To learn more about Energy Optimizers, USA, visit their website at http://energyoptusa.com or call them at (937) 877-1919.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/cambridge-city-schools-expects-save-more-than-133000-annually-through-partnership-energy-optimizers-usa-2015-01-0107-008.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Energy Optimizers, USA :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Loureiro Engineering Associates Poised for Growth in 2012

Waste management

PLAINVILLE, Conn., Feb. 6, 2012 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Loureiro Engineering Associates, Inc. announced this week several in-house promotions; it's all part of its long-term, strategic-growth plan.

Since 1975, Loureiro Engineering has provided the north Atlantic region with engineering, construction, EH&S, energy and waste management services. And with these newly-appointed positions, it is now poised to offer greater penetration of its services and seeks continued expansion in this region.

In-house promotions are as follows:

Jeffery J. Loureiro, P.E., L.E.P., Chief Executive Officer: Loureiro has more than 34 years of experience in management, planning, design, permitting, construction and operation, maintenance and monitoring of a wide variety of projects in civil and environmental engineering. He has worked on projects throughout the U.S. and internationally for some of the world's largest corporations.

Brian A. Cutler, P.E., L.E.P., President: Cutler has extensive expertise in the development, planning, engineering, evaluation, design and construction administration of various projects in civil and environmental engineering. He is recognized as a leader in the integration of remediation and redevelopment and has worked on some of the largest Brownfield redevelopment projects in Connecticut.

Peter T. Susca, Senior Vice President: Susca brings more than 30 years of environment, health and safety (EHS) leadership and technical expertise to the firm. He has served in an array of EHS executive leadership positions in Fortune 500 multi-national corporations and consulting firms.

David Fiereck, P.E., L.E.P., Vice President: Fiereck has more than 13 years experience in planning, engineering, design, and supervision of environmental projects for private sector and government clients.

Kevin J Bitjeman, L.E.P., Senior Project Manager: Bitjeman has more than 22 years experience in site investigation, remedial-action planning, regulatory support, hazardous building materials, and preparation of related reports.

"I am confident in Cutler's abilities to lead the day-to-day operations of the engineering, construction and waste management businesses," says Loureiro. "He has demonstrated creative intensity, ferocious ambition and the courage to take risks without the fear of failure - all of which are critical to our firm's future success."

Cutler comments that he is thrilled to see the promotions of Susca, Fiereck and Bitjeman.

"All of these gentlemen have clearly demonstrated excellence in their fields," says Cutler. "We now have a structure in place that will facilitate organic growth and leverage more opportunities."

About Loureiro:

Loureiro has been providing engineering, construction, EH&S, energy and waste management services to a wide variety of public and private clients throughout the Northeast since 1975. Engineering service offerings include: environmental; site; transportation; water and wastewater; underground utilities; land surveying; structural; mechanical; electrical; plumbing; fire protection; and facilities engineering.

Construction capabilities include: heavy and highway; bridge; site development; underground utilities; remediation; demolition; concrete and general contracting.

EH&S services encompass: multi-media consulting and permitting; auditing; training; emergency planning and response; management systems consulting; professional resource support; and transportation compliance.

Energy services include: assessing energy reduction opportunities; energy modeling; training; alternative energy; and energy metrics and reporting.

Waste management capabilities address: management, transportation, and disposal of industrial, construction and universal waste.

Loureiro's corporate office is in Plainville, Connecticut with satellite offices located in Rockland, Massachusetts; Manchester, New Hampshire; and Wakefield, Rhode Island.

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

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/2012-02-0206-001.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Loureiro Engineering Associates, Inc. :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2012 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Loureiro Engineering Associates Announces Strategic New Hire and New Office Location

Samuel W Butcher

PLAINVILLE, Conn., Jan. 9, 2012 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Loureiro Engineering Associates, Inc. is carefully adhering to its strategic growth plan in the area of geographic expansion of services. This week it announced a new office location in Rockford, MA that will be managed by new hire, Samuel W. Butcher, LSP, LEP, PG, LEED-AP, vice president at Loureiro Engineering.

Butcher brings nearly 20 years of experience to the table. Prior to joining Loureiro Engineering, he was senior vice president of operations at a Massachusetts-based environmental consulting firm.

In his new role at Loureiro, he will work as a Licensed Site Professional. Responsibilities include managing and overseeing assessment and remediation of contaminated sites in Massachusetts in accordance with the Massachusetts Contingency Plan (MCP).

His particular interest and expertise is in the cleanup and redevelopment of underutilized contaminated properties. As a result, he will help clients to understand their responsibilities pertaining to the MCP in these areas.

Additionally, Butcher is a professional geologist and LEED-AP, credentials which complement his ability to provide assessment and remediation services to clients.

"Butcher shares the same ideals and values as Loureiro Engineering does when it comes to customer service," says Brian Cutler, senior vice president of Loureiro Engineering. "Customer service is paramount in his work ethic."

Finally, Butcher provides litigation support services and environmental consulting services across other regulatory programs including wetlands and underground storage tanks. He is also responsible for business development across a wide spectrum of Loureiro Engineering's service offerings.

A member of the Town of Duxbury Conservation Commission which regulates activities in accordance with the state and local wetland bylaws and regulations, he is well positioned to lead this new office to overwhelming success.

"Having an office in the Boston metropolitan area now allows us to service areas that were beyond our reach before," says Cutler. "Mainly, the Rockland office addresses a gap in service area coverage between Merrimack, NH and Wakefield, RI. "We are excited to have Butcher on board to oversee this new location; we have aggressive marketing and growth plans on the horizon."

About Loureiro:

Loureiro has been providing engineering, construction, EH&S, and energy and waste management services to a wide variety of public and private sectors throughout the Northeast since 1975. Engineering service offerings include: environmental; site; transportation; water and wastewater; underground utilities; land surveying; structural; mechanical; electrical; plumbing; fire protection; and facilities engineering.

Construction capabilities include: heavy and highway; bridge; site development; underground utilities; remediation; demolition; concrete and general contracting.

EH&S services encompass: multi-media consulting and permitting; auditing; training; emergency planning and response; management systems consulting; professional resource support; and transportation compliance.

Energy services include: assessing energy reduction opportunities; energy modeling; training; alternative energy; and energy metrics and reporting.

Waste management capabilities address: management; transportation; and disposal of industrial, construction and universal waste.

For more information, visit: www.Loureiro.com .

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/2012-01-0109-002.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Loureiro Engineering Associates, Inc. :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2012 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

HydroDome Stormwater Chambers Certified for Load Bearing

HydroDome stormwater chambers

ROCKLEDGE, Fla., Aug. 31, 2011 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- LRM Industries International, Inc., headquartered in Rockledge, Florida, announces ASSHTO H-25 load certification for its two unique, high-efficiency HydroDome(TM) stormwater chambers.

Concurrently, LRM introduces the new HydroDome(TM) 300, a low profile complement to the original HydroDome(TM) 610 with the same unique cellular, nesting design. At less than 23 inches tall, this new chamber is ideal for shallow applications in high ground water areas, while still providing a high chamber capacity of 37.8 cubic feet.

Both the HydroDome(TM) 610 and the new HydroDome(TM) 300 exceeded ASSHTO H-25 load-bearing requirements in testing certified by independent engineering firms. LRM's HydroDome(TM) chambers are uniquely manufactured using its proprietary patented STF Sheetless ThermoForming(TM) technology, and are a reinforced composite material structure, providing unmatched strength and stiffness.

As with all of LRM's products, no VOCs are emitted during manufacturing and all trim is recycled back into the process on-site. LRM uses only thermoplastic resins for closed-loop recycling.

Company Information:

LRM Industries International, Inc. was established to commercialize TPF ThermoPlastic Flowforming(TM) technology, a radically different and award-winning process technology for producing large, feature-rich, long-fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite parts in one fully automated operation. With the TPF ThermoPlastic Flowforming(TM) and the new STF Sheetless ThermoForming(TM) technologies, LRM enables innovative applications and designs in the use of thermoplastics/composites to produce very large unitary structures where, to-date, it has been viewed as cost prohibitive or lacking in strength and structural integrity. Visit www.lrmind.com .

Contact:
Jim Callough
of LRM Industries International, Inc.
321-635-9797

- RSS News feed for LRM: http://send2pressnewswire.com/author/lrm-industries-international-inc/feed .

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/2011-08-0831-001.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE LRM Industries International, Inc. :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2011 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.