Longtime USGBC Exec Peter Templeton Appointed as President
(WASHINGTON – NOVEMBER 19, 2008) – The Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) announced today that Peter Templeton will assume the new role of President of GBCI. In his leadership role at the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), Templeton was vital to the early development of the LEED green building certification system, the launch of the LEED Accredited Professional (LEEP AP) program, the expansion of USGBC’s educational programming, and the successful spin-off of GBCI earlier this year.
“Peter’s long history of exceptional leadership within the green building movement makes him the ideal President of GBCI,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO and Founding Chair, USGBC. “Peter has been integrally involved in both USGBC's biggest milestones and its day-to-day achievements, and he will bring the same commitment to the integrity of the work to his new role.”
Templeton added, “I am honored to join the founding team of GBCI. Our mission is to administer the certification and credentialing programs related to green building practice in a way that is scalable to meet the ever increasing capacity and demand, while also maintaining the highest levels of quality and integrity.”
Most recently, Templeton has served as Senior Vice President of Education & Research for the U.S. Green Building Council, where he led the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, LEED training and professional certification programs, and green building research initiatives. He joined USGBC as its second employee in 2000 immediately following the launch of the LEED® Green Building Rating System™ and served as Director of LEED & International Programs until July 2005. Over the course of his eight-year tenure with the organization, USGBC trained more than 110,000 professionals in green building practices and welcomed nearly 100,000 attendees to Greenbuild.
Prior to joining USGBC, Peter worked as a project manager and environmental planner directing sustainable development, environmental education and land-use management programs in the United States and abroad. . He has a Masters Degree in Urban and Environmental Planning from the University of Virginia School of Architecture and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Vanderbilt University.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
USGBC Founder’s Home Renovation Marks Green Home Milestone
Gottfrieds’ Oakland, Calif., Home Scores Higher Than Any Since LEED for Homes Launch
BOSTON (Nov. 18, 2008) – The founder of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has completed the highest-scoring green home renovation since the LEED® for Homes Green Building Rating System™ launched in January 2008.
David Gottfried, the founder of USGBC and the World Green Building Council (WGBC) and CEO of Regenerative Ventures, and his wife Dr. Sara Gottfried, Medical Director at the Center for Integrative Medicine, moved into the LEED Platinum home in Oakland with their two young children in mid-August. The home received 106.5 points out of a total 136 possible under the LEED for Homes certification program. Platinum certification is awarded to homes that earn 80 points or more.
“David is a personal hero of mine. We crossed the line from friends to family a long time ago, and to my mind he has always been the epitome of authentic green leadership,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO and Founding Chair, USGBC. “He leaves nothing to chance and truly believes, as Gandhi said, that he will be the change he wants to see in the world. This stunning achievement further illustrates his dedication to the health of his family, his community, our environment and the organization he founded. I am always proud to see this kind of success in advancing the green building movement; that it was achieved by David, Sara and their beautiful girls is truly thrilling for me.”
The 1,500-square-foot home in the Oakland neighborhood of Rockridge is half as large as the Gottfrieds’ previous home in the Berkeley Hills. Gottfried specifically wanted the home to be small to reduce the home’s footprint and show that a family of four can live happily in a smaller space, as humans historically have.
“We hoped to showcase how to green an old historic home and still achieve LEED Platinum, as well as downsize 50% for a family of four,” David Gottfried said.
The restored 1915 craftsman bungalow further reduces its impact on the environment because, as a restoration, it enables reuse of many materials and doesn’t eliminate open space on a previously home-free site.
Gottfried works in a regenerative “Lifepod” in the back yard of the home, cutting out the air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions associated with a commute to the office. It is built in an extremely walkable neighborhood, with most amenities available to the family without their needing to drive. The home is designed to be a net-zero energy home, meaning that with its solar photovoltaic power generation and its solar- and hydronic-powered water-heating systems, the home strives to produce all the energy it needs to operate without drawing from the power grid.
Rainwater is captured and diverted for use in one of the home’s toilets, reducing reliance on potable water supplies. “Graywater” – used water from the home’s two showers, bathtub and two sinks – is used to water the landscaping. And the family plans to grow its own vegetables.
And the home manages to conserve resources without scrimping on style. Some 27 colors make up the décor, including beautiful recycled abalone tile. The Gottfrieds call it “eco-bling”. And the renovation process engaged the neighborhood, teaching the community about the ways a green home can be beautiful and livable.
The renovation was funded in part by a green construction loan from New Resource Bank and an interest rate break for its use of solar power and LEED.
Learn more about the Gottfrieds’ home at www.gottfriedhome.com. Also, visit the popular environmental Web site Planet Green, at planetgreen.discovery.com, to view David Gottfried’s video blog documenting the renovation process and the home’s green features.
About USGBC
The U.S. Green Building Council is a nonprofit membership organization whose vision is a sustainable built environment within a generation. Its membership includes corporations, builders, universities, government agencies, and other nonprofit organizations. Since USGBC’s founding in 1993, the Council has grown to more than 17,500 member companies and organizations, a comprehensive family of LEED® green building certification systems, an expansive educational offering, the industry’s popular Greenbuild International Conference and Expo (www.greenbuildexpo.org), and a network of 79 local chapters, affiliates, and organizing groups. For more information, visit www.usgbc.org.
About WGBC
The World Green Building Council is a union of national councils whose mission is to accelerate the transformation of the global built environment towards sustainability. The current member nations of the WorldGBC represent over 50 percent of global construction activity, and touch more than 25,000 companies and organizations worldwide. For more information, visit www.worldgbc.org.
About LEED®
The LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green building certification system is a feature-oriented certification program that awards buildings points for satisfying specified green building criteria. The six major environmental categories of review include: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality and Innovation and Design. Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels of LEED green building certification are awarded based on the total number of points earned within each LEED category. LEED can be applied to all building types including new construction, commercial interiors, core & shell developments, existing buildings, homes, neighborhood developments, schools and retail facilities. LEED for Healthcare is currently under development and is expected to be released in early 2008.
Incentives for LEED are available at the state and local level and LEED has also been adopted nationwide by federal agencies, state and local governments, and interested private companies. For more information, visit www.usgbc.org/LEED.
BOSTON (Nov. 18, 2008) – The founder of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has completed the highest-scoring green home renovation since the LEED® for Homes Green Building Rating System™ launched in January 2008.
David Gottfried, the founder of USGBC and the World Green Building Council (WGBC) and CEO of Regenerative Ventures, and his wife Dr. Sara Gottfried, Medical Director at the Center for Integrative Medicine, moved into the LEED Platinum home in Oakland with their two young children in mid-August. The home received 106.5 points out of a total 136 possible under the LEED for Homes certification program. Platinum certification is awarded to homes that earn 80 points or more.
“David is a personal hero of mine. We crossed the line from friends to family a long time ago, and to my mind he has always been the epitome of authentic green leadership,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO and Founding Chair, USGBC. “He leaves nothing to chance and truly believes, as Gandhi said, that he will be the change he wants to see in the world. This stunning achievement further illustrates his dedication to the health of his family, his community, our environment and the organization he founded. I am always proud to see this kind of success in advancing the green building movement; that it was achieved by David, Sara and their beautiful girls is truly thrilling for me.”
The 1,500-square-foot home in the Oakland neighborhood of Rockridge is half as large as the Gottfrieds’ previous home in the Berkeley Hills. Gottfried specifically wanted the home to be small to reduce the home’s footprint and show that a family of four can live happily in a smaller space, as humans historically have.
“We hoped to showcase how to green an old historic home and still achieve LEED Platinum, as well as downsize 50% for a family of four,” David Gottfried said.
The restored 1915 craftsman bungalow further reduces its impact on the environment because, as a restoration, it enables reuse of many materials and doesn’t eliminate open space on a previously home-free site.
Gottfried works in a regenerative “Lifepod” in the back yard of the home, cutting out the air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions associated with a commute to the office. It is built in an extremely walkable neighborhood, with most amenities available to the family without their needing to drive. The home is designed to be a net-zero energy home, meaning that with its solar photovoltaic power generation and its solar- and hydronic-powered water-heating systems, the home strives to produce all the energy it needs to operate without drawing from the power grid.
Rainwater is captured and diverted for use in one of the home’s toilets, reducing reliance on potable water supplies. “Graywater” – used water from the home’s two showers, bathtub and two sinks – is used to water the landscaping. And the family plans to grow its own vegetables.
And the home manages to conserve resources without scrimping on style. Some 27 colors make up the décor, including beautiful recycled abalone tile. The Gottfrieds call it “eco-bling”. And the renovation process engaged the neighborhood, teaching the community about the ways a green home can be beautiful and livable.
The renovation was funded in part by a green construction loan from New Resource Bank and an interest rate break for its use of solar power and LEED.
Learn more about the Gottfrieds’ home at www.gottfriedhome.com. Also, visit the popular environmental Web site Planet Green, at planetgreen.discovery.com, to view David Gottfried’s video blog documenting the renovation process and the home’s green features.
About USGBC
The U.S. Green Building Council is a nonprofit membership organization whose vision is a sustainable built environment within a generation. Its membership includes corporations, builders, universities, government agencies, and other nonprofit organizations. Since USGBC’s founding in 1993, the Council has grown to more than 17,500 member companies and organizations, a comprehensive family of LEED® green building certification systems, an expansive educational offering, the industry’s popular Greenbuild International Conference and Expo (www.greenbuildexpo.org), and a network of 79 local chapters, affiliates, and organizing groups. For more information, visit www.usgbc.org.
About WGBC
The World Green Building Council is a union of national councils whose mission is to accelerate the transformation of the global built environment towards sustainability. The current member nations of the WorldGBC represent over 50 percent of global construction activity, and touch more than 25,000 companies and organizations worldwide. For more information, visit www.worldgbc.org.
About LEED®
The LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green building certification system is a feature-oriented certification program that awards buildings points for satisfying specified green building criteria. The six major environmental categories of review include: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality and Innovation and Design. Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels of LEED green building certification are awarded based on the total number of points earned within each LEED category. LEED can be applied to all building types including new construction, commercial interiors, core & shell developments, existing buildings, homes, neighborhood developments, schools and retail facilities. LEED for Healthcare is currently under development and is expected to be released in early 2008.
Incentives for LEED are available at the state and local level and LEED has also been adopted nationwide by federal agencies, state and local governments, and interested private companies. For more information, visit www.usgbc.org/LEED.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Now Open for Public Comment: LEED for Neighborhood Development
BOSTON – (November 18, 2008) – The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) announced the opening of the first public comment period for its LEED for Neighborhood Development rating system. The program is the first national certification system for green neighborhood design and development.
LEED for Neighborhood Development is a collaboration between the USGBC, the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU), and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and integrates the principles of smart growth, new urbanism, and green building. USGBC began pilot testing LEED for Neighborhood Development in early 2007, and accepted nearly 240 pilot projects into the program, representing 39 states and 6 countries. The rating system will evaluate projects on criteria related to smart location and linkage to the community at large; neighborhood pattern and design; and green construction and technology.
“The development of LEED for Neighborhood Development speaks to the breadth of what ‘green building’ means,” said Sophie Lambert, Director of LEED for Neighborhood Development, U.S. Green Building Council. “What was once a rating system solely designed for commercial construction, LEED is now evolving beyond single buildings to address development at the neighborhood scale.”
Public comment for LEED for Neighborhood Development opened on November 17 and will run until January 5, 2009. To view the LEED for Neighborhood Development draft and submit comments online, please visit: http://www.usgbc.org/LEED/LEEDDrafts/RatingSystemVersions.aspx?CMSPageID=1458
LEED 2009 PASSES MEMBER BALLOT
New Rating System Resets the Bar for Green Building Performance
BOSTON (November 18, 2008)– LEED 2009, the long-awaited update to the internationally recognized LEED green building certification program, has passed member ballot, and will be introduced in 2009 as the next major evolution of the existing LEED rating systems for commercial buildings. It includes a series of major technical advancements focused on improving energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and addressing other environmental and human health outcomes.
LEED 2009 will also incorporate highly anticipated regional credits, extra points that have been identified as priorities within a project’s given environmental zone. LEED has also undergone a scientifically grounded re-weighting of credits, changing allocation of points among LEED credits to reflect climate change and energy efficiency as urgent priorities. This will be one of the most significant changes to the rating system, and will increase the importance of green building as a means of contributing immediate and measurable solutions toward energy independence, climate change mitigation, and other global priorities.
LEED 2009 incorporates eight years worth of market and user feedback in the form of precedent-setting Credit Interpretation Rulings, which will ensure clarity for project teams. Coupled with a credit alignment structure designed to create a more elegant and harmonized rating system, LEED 2009 will reset the bar for the certification of high-performance green buildings.
Process innovation in how new technical advancements are incorporated into LEED will also be introduced alongside LEED 2009, including a “pilot process” for individual credits that will allow major new technical developments to be flexibly trialed, evaluated, and incorporated into LEED.
“The conclusion of the balloting process marks the culmination of tireless work done by representatives from all corners of the building industry,” said Brendan Owens, Vice President, LEED Technical Development, U.S. Green Building Council’s. “We have the deepest gratitude for our volunteer leaders, and for their bold steps towards resetting the bar for green building leadership and challenges the industry to move faster and reach further.”
The first public comment period for LEED 2009 opened in May 2008, followed by a second in late August. USGBC had received nearly 7,000 comments from members and stakeholders at the conclusion of the second public comment period on September 2. The final step is the consensus development process for LEED 2009 was to be balloted for a pass/fail vote among USGBC’s 18,000 member organizations. LEED 2009 successfully passed member ballot on November 14. Detailed information about specific proposed technical changes to the rating system can be found in the background documents that accompany the public comment forms on USGBC’s Web site.
BOSTON (November 18, 2008)– LEED 2009, the long-awaited update to the internationally recognized LEED green building certification program, has passed member ballot, and will be introduced in 2009 as the next major evolution of the existing LEED rating systems for commercial buildings. It includes a series of major technical advancements focused on improving energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and addressing other environmental and human health outcomes.
LEED 2009 will also incorporate highly anticipated regional credits, extra points that have been identified as priorities within a project’s given environmental zone. LEED has also undergone a scientifically grounded re-weighting of credits, changing allocation of points among LEED credits to reflect climate change and energy efficiency as urgent priorities. This will be one of the most significant changes to the rating system, and will increase the importance of green building as a means of contributing immediate and measurable solutions toward energy independence, climate change mitigation, and other global priorities.
LEED 2009 incorporates eight years worth of market and user feedback in the form of precedent-setting Credit Interpretation Rulings, which will ensure clarity for project teams. Coupled with a credit alignment structure designed to create a more elegant and harmonized rating system, LEED 2009 will reset the bar for the certification of high-performance green buildings.
Process innovation in how new technical advancements are incorporated into LEED will also be introduced alongside LEED 2009, including a “pilot process” for individual credits that will allow major new technical developments to be flexibly trialed, evaluated, and incorporated into LEED.
“The conclusion of the balloting process marks the culmination of tireless work done by representatives from all corners of the building industry,” said Brendan Owens, Vice President, LEED Technical Development, U.S. Green Building Council’s. “We have the deepest gratitude for our volunteer leaders, and for their bold steps towards resetting the bar for green building leadership and challenges the industry to move faster and reach further.”
The first public comment period for LEED 2009 opened in May 2008, followed by a second in late August. USGBC had received nearly 7,000 comments from members and stakeholders at the conclusion of the second public comment period on September 2. The final step is the consensus development process for LEED 2009 was to be balloted for a pass/fail vote among USGBC’s 18,000 member organizations. LEED 2009 successfully passed member ballot on November 14. Detailed information about specific proposed technical changes to the rating system can be found in the background documents that accompany the public comment forms on USGBC’s Web site.
Major Changes in Computer Recycling to Start November 26
Major Changes in Computer Recycling to Start November 26
Vancouver, WA – Clark County residents have until late November to donate or recycle unwanted computers before a new state rule changes the collection system. The Clark County computer reuse and recycling program known as CREAM, will suspend collections and operations at all of its current collection sites before the end of this month.
Beginning in January 2009, Washington’s new Electronic Product Recycling Rule (WAC 173-900) will call for manufacturers of certain electronic products sold in the state to support directly a take-back recycling system. The new program will provide convenient, safe and environmentally sound ways to collect, transport, process and recycle electronic products, according to Clark County solid waste specialist Jim Mansfield.
The current collection centers will use the month of December to process equipment on hand.
This new rule will lead to more drop-off locations that accept unwanted electronic material from residents beginning Jan.1, 2009, according to Mansfield. “Our current system has worked well, but the new approach will likely give people more options for recycling or donating their aging computers,” he said. Details for the new program are still being worked out, he added.
To implement the new state rule, the Jail Work Center drop-off site, located at 5197 NW Lower River Road, will not accept computer and computer-related material after Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2008. Until then, the regular operating hours are 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-4 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays.
Satellite drop-off sites for the CREAM program will also cease collections as follows:
• Central Transfer and Recycling Center, located at 11034 NE 117th Ave., will stop accepting computers after Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008. Hours of operation until then are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
• West Van Materials Recovery Center, located at 6601 NW Old Lower River Road, will stop collection of these materials after Saturday, Nov. 29, 2008. Hours of operation until then are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Philip Services Corp., located at 625 S. 32nd St., Washougal, will no longer collect computers and related material effective immediately.
Residents who have electronic materials for recycle prior to the CREAM reopening may consider other recyclers in Clark County that provide environmentally sound services. Some of these recyclers may charge a fee to accept certain items. For more information about computer and electronics recycling visit www.ecyclewashington.org or www.recyclingA-Z.com or call (360) 397-6118, ext. 4352.
Vancouver, WA – Clark County residents have until late November to donate or recycle unwanted computers before a new state rule changes the collection system. The Clark County computer reuse and recycling program known as CREAM, will suspend collections and operations at all of its current collection sites before the end of this month.
Beginning in January 2009, Washington’s new Electronic Product Recycling Rule (WAC 173-900) will call for manufacturers of certain electronic products sold in the state to support directly a take-back recycling system. The new program will provide convenient, safe and environmentally sound ways to collect, transport, process and recycle electronic products, according to Clark County solid waste specialist Jim Mansfield.
The current collection centers will use the month of December to process equipment on hand.
This new rule will lead to more drop-off locations that accept unwanted electronic material from residents beginning Jan.1, 2009, according to Mansfield. “Our current system has worked well, but the new approach will likely give people more options for recycling or donating their aging computers,” he said. Details for the new program are still being worked out, he added.
To implement the new state rule, the Jail Work Center drop-off site, located at 5197 NW Lower River Road, will not accept computer and computer-related material after Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2008. Until then, the regular operating hours are 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-4 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays.
Satellite drop-off sites for the CREAM program will also cease collections as follows:
• Central Transfer and Recycling Center, located at 11034 NE 117th Ave., will stop accepting computers after Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008. Hours of operation until then are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
• West Van Materials Recovery Center, located at 6601 NW Old Lower River Road, will stop collection of these materials after Saturday, Nov. 29, 2008. Hours of operation until then are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Philip Services Corp., located at 625 S. 32nd St., Washougal, will no longer collect computers and related material effective immediately.
Residents who have electronic materials for recycle prior to the CREAM reopening may consider other recyclers in Clark County that provide environmentally sound services. Some of these recyclers may charge a fee to accept certain items. For more information about computer and electronics recycling visit www.ecyclewashington.org or www.recyclingA-Z.com or call (360) 397-6118, ext. 4352.
Monday, November 17, 2008
County Plans Hearings on 2009/2010 Budget
County Plans Hearings on 2009/2010 Budget
Vancouver, WA – Clark County is nearing completion of its 2009/2010 budget. The Board of Clark County Commissioners must approve a budget no later than December 5. Here are key dates for upcoming public hearings and meetings on the county budget:
• Wednesday, November 19 — The Board plans afternoon work sessions with elected officials in the sixth-floor training room, Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., Vancouver. Here are the times:
1:30 p.m. Assessor
1:45 p.m. Auditor
2:00 p.m. Clerk
2:15 p.m. District Court
2:30 p.m. Prosecuting Attorney
2:45 p.m. Sheriff’s Office
3:00 p.m. Superior Court
3:15 p.m. Treasurer’s Office
• Tuesday, November 25 — After its regular Tuesday hearing, the Board will hold a work session with certain county departments in the sixth-floor training room, Public Service Center, Vancouver.
• Wednesday, November 26 — As soon as a 10 a.m. hearing is finished, the Board will hold a work session with the Budget Office to consider any modifications to the recommended budget for the public hearings below. Location will be the sixth-floor training room, Public Service Center, Vancouver.
• Monday, December 1 — 2 p.m. public hearing for elected officials and county department directors to present their 2009-2010 biennial budgets, sixth-floor training room, Public Service Center, Vancouver.
• Tuesday, December 2 — Hearings for the public to speak on the budget:
- 10 a.m., sixth-floor hearing room, Public Service Center.
- 6:30 p.m., Rainier Room, Clark County Fire District 5 Northwest Regional Training Center, 11606 N.E. 66th St., #103, Vancouver.
• Wednesday, December 3 — 9 a.m., Board will meet to review the final 2009/2010 budget. Meetings will be held at 9 a.m. on December 4 and 5 only if necessary.
Vancouver, WA – Clark County is nearing completion of its 2009/2010 budget. The Board of Clark County Commissioners must approve a budget no later than December 5. Here are key dates for upcoming public hearings and meetings on the county budget:
• Wednesday, November 19 — The Board plans afternoon work sessions with elected officials in the sixth-floor training room, Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., Vancouver. Here are the times:
1:30 p.m. Assessor
1:45 p.m. Auditor
2:00 p.m. Clerk
2:15 p.m. District Court
2:30 p.m. Prosecuting Attorney
2:45 p.m. Sheriff’s Office
3:00 p.m. Superior Court
3:15 p.m. Treasurer’s Office
• Tuesday, November 25 — After its regular Tuesday hearing, the Board will hold a work session with certain county departments in the sixth-floor training room, Public Service Center, Vancouver.
• Wednesday, November 26 — As soon as a 10 a.m. hearing is finished, the Board will hold a work session with the Budget Office to consider any modifications to the recommended budget for the public hearings below. Location will be the sixth-floor training room, Public Service Center, Vancouver.
• Monday, December 1 — 2 p.m. public hearing for elected officials and county department directors to present their 2009-2010 biennial budgets, sixth-floor training room, Public Service Center, Vancouver.
• Tuesday, December 2 — Hearings for the public to speak on the budget:
- 10 a.m., sixth-floor hearing room, Public Service Center.
- 6:30 p.m., Rainier Room, Clark County Fire District 5 Northwest Regional Training Center, 11606 N.E. 66th St., #103, Vancouver.
• Wednesday, December 3 — 9 a.m., Board will meet to review the final 2009/2010 budget. Meetings will be held at 9 a.m. on December 4 and 5 only if necessary.
COMCAST TO ROLL OUT EXTREME 50 MBPS HIGH-SPEED INTERNET SERVICE IN OREGON AND SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON IN DECEMBER
COMCAST TO ROLL OUT EXTREME 50 MBPS HIGH-SPEED INTERNET SERVICE
IN OREGON AND SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON IN DECEMBER
Comcast Will Also Introduce Two New, Faster Speed Tier Options and
Will Double Speeds for Most Existing Customers for No Additional Fee
BEAVERTON, ORE, Nov 17, 2008 – Comcast, the nation’s leading provider of entertainment, information and communications products and services, today announced it is making the leap from broadband to wideband with the launch of next-generation DOCSIS 3.0 in Oregon and Southwest Washington. With wideband, Comcast will introduce a new echelon of Internet speed tiers, which will redefine the customer experience online and create a platform for Internet innovation in the years ahead.
In December, Comcast’s new services will be available to residential homes and businesses throughout the communities that Comcast serves. From Longview, Washington to Eugene, Oregon, customers will be surfing the Web even faster.
With wideband, Comcast will offer among the fastest speeds available today, including the Extreme 50 tier with download speeds of up to 50 Mbps. Wideband will also enable Comcast to double speeds for the majority of existing high-speed Internet customers at no additional cost.
“Wideband is a revolutionary leap in offering superfast high-speed Internet service in Oregon and Southwest Washington. By running wideband service over our next-generation fiber-optic network, we are able to dramatically enhance our customers’ online experience immediately. And these speeds are only a preview of what’s to come—in the future we’ll have the capability to deliver even faster speeds in excess of 160 Mbps,” said Curt Henninger, Senior Vice President of Comcast Oregon and SW Washington. “Today’s announcement reaffirms Comcast’s commitment to offering nearly every customer in the Northwest the ability to enjoy some of the fastest Internet speeds available today.”
As part of the wideband deployment, Comcast will launch two new premium speed tiers to its residential and business class customers. Both new services are ideal for households or businesses simultaneously using several computers or Internet-connected devices. They also will appeal to those who simply want some of the fastest speeds available today:
New Residential Tiers
• Extreme 50, offering up to 50 Mbps of downstream speed and up to 10 Mbps of upstream speed at $139.95/month.*
• Ultra, offering up to 22 Mbps of downstream speed and up to 5 Mbps of upstream speed at $62.95/month.*
With Extreme 50, Comcast customers will be able to download a high-def movie (6 GB) in about 16 minutes, a standard-def movie (2 GB) in about 5 minutes and a standard-def TV show (300 MB) in a matter of seconds. Customers with Extreme 50 also will be able to download digital photos, songs and games faster than ever.
Comcast to Rollout Extreme 50 MBPS High Speed Internet Service in Oregon and SW Washington, page 2
In addition to the new speed tiers, Comcast also is increasing speeds for most of its existing customers.
• Performance tier customers will benefit from doubled downstream and upstream speeds, offering up to 12 Mbps and 2 Mbps, respectively.
• Performance Plus customers will be upgraded to Comcast’s Blast! tier, which will double their download speeds to up to 16 Mbps and provide up to 2 Mbps of upload speed.
Plus, with PowerBoost® technology, customers are able to enjoy even faster speeds to download and upload files such as videos, games, music and photos.
New Business Class Tiers
Business customers will benefit from wideband with increased efficiency and productivity. Customers can sign up for the Deluxe 50 Mbps / 10 Mbps tier for $189.95/month, which includes a full suite of features and support. As part of their service, Comcast Business Class customers receive Microsoft Communication Services, providing corporate-class e-mail, calendaring and document sharing, as well as additional benefits such as firewall protection, static IP addresses, multiple e-mail addresses and business class 24/7 customer support. Existing business class customers also will receive complimentary speed increases—speeds on the Starter tier will be doubled to up to 12 Mbps / 2 Mbps and a new Premium Tier also will be introduced, offering speeds up to 22 Mbps / 5 Mbps for only $99.95/month.
IN OREGON AND SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON IN DECEMBER
Comcast Will Also Introduce Two New, Faster Speed Tier Options and
Will Double Speeds for Most Existing Customers for No Additional Fee
BEAVERTON, ORE, Nov 17, 2008 – Comcast, the nation’s leading provider of entertainment, information and communications products and services, today announced it is making the leap from broadband to wideband with the launch of next-generation DOCSIS 3.0 in Oregon and Southwest Washington. With wideband, Comcast will introduce a new echelon of Internet speed tiers, which will redefine the customer experience online and create a platform for Internet innovation in the years ahead.
In December, Comcast’s new services will be available to residential homes and businesses throughout the communities that Comcast serves. From Longview, Washington to Eugene, Oregon, customers will be surfing the Web even faster.
With wideband, Comcast will offer among the fastest speeds available today, including the Extreme 50 tier with download speeds of up to 50 Mbps. Wideband will also enable Comcast to double speeds for the majority of existing high-speed Internet customers at no additional cost.
“Wideband is a revolutionary leap in offering superfast high-speed Internet service in Oregon and Southwest Washington. By running wideband service over our next-generation fiber-optic network, we are able to dramatically enhance our customers’ online experience immediately. And these speeds are only a preview of what’s to come—in the future we’ll have the capability to deliver even faster speeds in excess of 160 Mbps,” said Curt Henninger, Senior Vice President of Comcast Oregon and SW Washington. “Today’s announcement reaffirms Comcast’s commitment to offering nearly every customer in the Northwest the ability to enjoy some of the fastest Internet speeds available today.”
As part of the wideband deployment, Comcast will launch two new premium speed tiers to its residential and business class customers. Both new services are ideal for households or businesses simultaneously using several computers or Internet-connected devices. They also will appeal to those who simply want some of the fastest speeds available today:
New Residential Tiers
• Extreme 50, offering up to 50 Mbps of downstream speed and up to 10 Mbps of upstream speed at $139.95/month.*
• Ultra, offering up to 22 Mbps of downstream speed and up to 5 Mbps of upstream speed at $62.95/month.*
With Extreme 50, Comcast customers will be able to download a high-def movie (6 GB) in about 16 minutes, a standard-def movie (2 GB) in about 5 minutes and a standard-def TV show (300 MB) in a matter of seconds. Customers with Extreme 50 also will be able to download digital photos, songs and games faster than ever.
Comcast to Rollout Extreme 50 MBPS High Speed Internet Service in Oregon and SW Washington, page 2
In addition to the new speed tiers, Comcast also is increasing speeds for most of its existing customers.
• Performance tier customers will benefit from doubled downstream and upstream speeds, offering up to 12 Mbps and 2 Mbps, respectively.
• Performance Plus customers will be upgraded to Comcast’s Blast! tier, which will double their download speeds to up to 16 Mbps and provide up to 2 Mbps of upload speed.
Plus, with PowerBoost® technology, customers are able to enjoy even faster speeds to download and upload files such as videos, games, music and photos.
New Business Class Tiers
Business customers will benefit from wideband with increased efficiency and productivity. Customers can sign up for the Deluxe 50 Mbps / 10 Mbps tier for $189.95/month, which includes a full suite of features and support. As part of their service, Comcast Business Class customers receive Microsoft Communication Services, providing corporate-class e-mail, calendaring and document sharing, as well as additional benefits such as firewall protection, static IP addresses, multiple e-mail addresses and business class 24/7 customer support. Existing business class customers also will receive complimentary speed increases—speeds on the Starter tier will be doubled to up to 12 Mbps / 2 Mbps and a new Premium Tier also will be introduced, offering speeds up to 22 Mbps / 5 Mbps for only $99.95/month.
Clark’s Concert Choir and Band Perform Fall Concert
Clark’s Concert Choir and Band Perform Fall Concert
VANCOUVER, Wash. -- The Clark College Concert Choir, under the direction of April Duvic, and Concert Band, under the direction of Richard Inouye, will present their Fall Concert “JOY!,” Friday, December 5, at 7:30 p.m. in the Royal Durst Theatre, Vancouver School of Arts and Academics, 3101 Main Street, Vancouver. Highlights of the festive program will feature the concert choir singing Awake the Trumpet’s Lofty Sound, accompanied by concert band members Eben F. Heldreth and Vernon Jones on trumpet, and Halleluah, Amen, both oratorio works by G. F. Handel. Additional works include O Nata Lux by Morten Lauridsen and This Shall Be for Music, accompanied by Sarah Rumery on viola. The choir will conclude its portion of the concert with Noble Cain’s rousing O Sing Your Songs. The concert band’s joyful offerings include Georges Bizet’s Farandole, Frank Tichel’s Joy Revisited, J.S. Bach’s Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, and works by Sergei Rachmaninoff and Serge Prokofiev. The concert is free and open to the public. For more information, call Peggy Winston at 360-992-2662.
VANCOUVER, Wash. -- The Clark College Concert Choir, under the direction of April Duvic, and Concert Band, under the direction of Richard Inouye, will present their Fall Concert “JOY!,” Friday, December 5, at 7:30 p.m. in the Royal Durst Theatre, Vancouver School of Arts and Academics, 3101 Main Street, Vancouver. Highlights of the festive program will feature the concert choir singing Awake the Trumpet’s Lofty Sound, accompanied by concert band members Eben F. Heldreth and Vernon Jones on trumpet, and Halleluah, Amen, both oratorio works by G. F. Handel. Additional works include O Nata Lux by Morten Lauridsen and This Shall Be for Music, accompanied by Sarah Rumery on viola. The choir will conclude its portion of the concert with Noble Cain’s rousing O Sing Your Songs. The concert band’s joyful offerings include Georges Bizet’s Farandole, Frank Tichel’s Joy Revisited, J.S. Bach’s Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, and works by Sergei Rachmaninoff and Serge Prokofiev. The concert is free and open to the public. For more information, call Peggy Winston at 360-992-2662.
Federal Funding Symposium Rescheduled
** Thursday, November 20 @ 2:00PM IN Vancouver **
Senators Cantwell, Murray Hold a Federal Funding Symposium
VANCOUVER, WA – On Thursday, November 20, the offices of U.S. Senator’s Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) will be holding a Federal Funding Symposium to discuss federal grants and the appropriations process. Topics that will be covered include: tips on submitting a successful grant application; finding the right funding source for your project; and how to best work with the Washington state Congressional delegation. Non-profit organizations, small businesses, municipalities, tribes, and higher education institutions are all encouraged to attend.
WHEN: Thursday, November 20, 2008
TIME: 2:00 PM PDT
WHERE: WSU Vancouver, Administration Building Room 110
14204 NE Salmon Creek Avenue, Vancouver
Space is limited. Those who are interested must RSVP to workshop@murray.senate.gov
WHO: The office of U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA)
The office of U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA)
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Email: workshop@murray.senate.gov or Call: (888) 648-7328
Senators Cantwell, Murray Hold a Federal Funding Symposium
VANCOUVER, WA – On Thursday, November 20, the offices of U.S. Senator’s Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) will be holding a Federal Funding Symposium to discuss federal grants and the appropriations process. Topics that will be covered include: tips on submitting a successful grant application; finding the right funding source for your project; and how to best work with the Washington state Congressional delegation. Non-profit organizations, small businesses, municipalities, tribes, and higher education institutions are all encouraged to attend.
WHEN: Thursday, November 20, 2008
TIME: 2:00 PM PDT
WHERE: WSU Vancouver, Administration Building Room 110
14204 NE Salmon Creek Avenue, Vancouver
Space is limited. Those who are interested must RSVP to workshop@murray.senate.gov
WHO: The office of U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA)
The office of U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA)
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Email: workshop@murray.senate.gov or Call: (888) 648-7328
Friday, November 14, 2008
Senators Cantwell, Murray Hold a Federal Funding Symposium
VANCOUVER, WA – On Thursday, November 20, the offices of U.S. Senator’s Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) will be holding a Federal Funding Symposium to discuss federal grants and the appropriations process. Topics that will be covered include: tips on submitting a successful grant application; finding the right funding source for your project; and how to best work with the Washington state Congressional delegation. Non-profit organizations, small businesses, municipalities, tribes, and higher education institutions are all encouraged to attend.
WHEN: Thursday, November 20, 2008
TIME: 2:00 PM PDT
WHERE: WSU Vancouver, Administration Building Room 110
14204 NE Salmon Creek Avenue, Vancouver
Space is limited. Those who are interested must RSVP to workshop@murray.senate.gov
WHO: The office of U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA)
The office of U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA)
WHEN: Thursday, November 20, 2008
TIME: 2:00 PM PDT
WHERE: WSU Vancouver, Administration Building Room 110
14204 NE Salmon Creek Avenue, Vancouver
Space is limited. Those who are interested must RSVP to workshop@murray.senate.gov
WHO: The office of U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA)
The office of U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA)
Electrix Receives Green Award from the Northwest Construction Consumer Council
Vancouver, WA- November 14, 2008- Building a first-of-its-kind Tire Processing Facility that recovers highly valuable materials including carbon, steel, oil and energy from discarded tires has earned Electrix LLC, a Vancouver- based, full service electrical contractor, a top construction honor.
The Northwest Construction Consumer Council (NWCCC) awarded Electrix an honorable mention in the Green Category at the Council’s Annual Conference and 2008 Distinguished Project Awards luncheon.
The project was chosen based on the overall safety record of zero incidents and the innovative approach to clean energy. Not only will the process recover valuable resources, but the state-of-the art facilities are projected to produce up to 90% less greenhouse emissions than current tire disposal methods, such as burning. The next phase of the project will result in a self-sustaining facility where 60% of the energy will come from the gases of the actual process for co-generation power production.
“Electrix was very pleased to partner with Reklaim Technologies and contribute to such a unique, innovative project, and was honored to be recognized by NWCCC,” said Raymond Kelly, President of Electrix. “The strong collaboration of the entire project team and Reklaim, and our expertise in highly-technical industrial projects played a critical role in delivering quality workmanship, on time and within budget.”
“Reklaim would like to thank Electrix for being tremendous partners and supporters”, said Roland Dawson, Chief Executive Officer of Reklaim Technologies. “Electrix stands out as one of the most professional companies I have been involved with over the past several years. Their work force was excellent in every way, from managing and organizing to field installation.”
Electrix was involved in the project from the ground up and was tasked with the full installation of all electrical components for the industrial facility, including instrumentation and controls, power distribution, fire alarm system and multiple generator emergency back-up systems.
The Northwest Construction Consumer Council (NWCCC) awarded Electrix an honorable mention in the Green Category at the Council’s Annual Conference and 2008 Distinguished Project Awards luncheon.
The project was chosen based on the overall safety record of zero incidents and the innovative approach to clean energy. Not only will the process recover valuable resources, but the state-of-the art facilities are projected to produce up to 90% less greenhouse emissions than current tire disposal methods, such as burning. The next phase of the project will result in a self-sustaining facility where 60% of the energy will come from the gases of the actual process for co-generation power production.
“Electrix was very pleased to partner with Reklaim Technologies and contribute to such a unique, innovative project, and was honored to be recognized by NWCCC,” said Raymond Kelly, President of Electrix. “The strong collaboration of the entire project team and Reklaim, and our expertise in highly-technical industrial projects played a critical role in delivering quality workmanship, on time and within budget.”
“Reklaim would like to thank Electrix for being tremendous partners and supporters”, said Roland Dawson, Chief Executive Officer of Reklaim Technologies. “Electrix stands out as one of the most professional companies I have been involved with over the past several years. Their work force was excellent in every way, from managing and organizing to field installation.”
Electrix was involved in the project from the ground up and was tasked with the full installation of all electrical components for the industrial facility, including instrumentation and controls, power distribution, fire alarm system and multiple generator emergency back-up systems.
Lt. Governor, Legislative Panel to Look at Economics of Video Game Industry
BELLEVUE – A legislative panel chaired by Lt. Gov. Brad Owen will take a look at the economic impact of the cyber and video game industry within Washington at a 9 a.m. meeting Nov. 19 at Bellevue City Hall Council chambers.
See Video
Lt. Governor Owen discusses the Nov. 19 meeting of the Legislative Committee on Economic Development and International Relations at Bellevue City Hall.
“We are very fortunate to be the hotbed for the development and marketing of online and video games in our state,” Owen said. “There are at least 150 companies in the Puget Sound region with a core business of game development, one of the biggest concentrations in the country. The purpose of the meeting is to learn more about this exciting industry and assess how its development is an emerging factor for our economy.”
The panel, called the Legislative Committee on Economic Development and International Relations, is made up of six members from the state Senate and six from the House of Representatives. It is charged by state statute to study and review economic development issues with special emphasis on international trade, tourism, investment and industrial development, and to assist the legislature in developing a comprehensive and consistent economic development policy.
During its three-hour meeting the committee will hear from industry experts on topics such as industry competitiveness, education and training, research and development and the industry’s content rating system for kids. Representatives from enterpriseSeattle, Bungie, the University of Washington and the DigiPen Institute of Technology will all make presentations.
The meeting will be followed by a tour of Microsoft’s ESP Studio on the company’s campus in nearby Redmond. The studio focuses on simulation and visualization technologies used in game development, education and training.
“We’re excited to have the opportunity to educate legislators on the depth and breadth of the video game industry in Washington state,” said Tom Flavin, President and CEO of enterpriseSeattle. “We know from our study conducted in late 2007 that the video game industry is responsible for more than 15,000 jobs at gaming companies or divisions in Washington state, with the total number of jobs growing at approximately 33 percent per year since 2004. We are definitely a global leader in this sector and we look forward to positioning the region for further and future success.”
"We are extremely pleased to be hosting this important forum," Bellevue Mayor Grant Degginger said. "Bellevue and the eastside is one of two centers in the United States for the interactive media industry - an industry expected to experience dynamic growth in coming years. We look forward to working with the industry as it continues to create jobs and otherwise play a very important role in our economic development."
Lt. Gov. Owen said his interest in the cyber and video game industry was piqued last year when he was asked to give a welcoming speech at the World Cyber Games in Seattle, an event that drew competitors from around the world.
“We saw people doing fierce cyber battle with others across the globe, and many of the games that they were playing were developed in Washington,” he said. “This is a growing industry and we are pleased that it is helping to make our economy strong and diverse.”
The meeting will air both on Bellevue TV 21 and TVW in the days following the event - check schedules for listings.
See Video
Lt. Governor Owen discusses the Nov. 19 meeting of the Legislative Committee on Economic Development and International Relations at Bellevue City Hall.
“We are very fortunate to be the hotbed for the development and marketing of online and video games in our state,” Owen said. “There are at least 150 companies in the Puget Sound region with a core business of game development, one of the biggest concentrations in the country. The purpose of the meeting is to learn more about this exciting industry and assess how its development is an emerging factor for our economy.”
The panel, called the Legislative Committee on Economic Development and International Relations, is made up of six members from the state Senate and six from the House of Representatives. It is charged by state statute to study and review economic development issues with special emphasis on international trade, tourism, investment and industrial development, and to assist the legislature in developing a comprehensive and consistent economic development policy.
During its three-hour meeting the committee will hear from industry experts on topics such as industry competitiveness, education and training, research and development and the industry’s content rating system for kids. Representatives from enterpriseSeattle, Bungie, the University of Washington and the DigiPen Institute of Technology will all make presentations.
The meeting will be followed by a tour of Microsoft’s ESP Studio on the company’s campus in nearby Redmond. The studio focuses on simulation and visualization technologies used in game development, education and training.
“We’re excited to have the opportunity to educate legislators on the depth and breadth of the video game industry in Washington state,” said Tom Flavin, President and CEO of enterpriseSeattle. “We know from our study conducted in late 2007 that the video game industry is responsible for more than 15,000 jobs at gaming companies or divisions in Washington state, with the total number of jobs growing at approximately 33 percent per year since 2004. We are definitely a global leader in this sector and we look forward to positioning the region for further and future success.”
"We are extremely pleased to be hosting this important forum," Bellevue Mayor Grant Degginger said. "Bellevue and the eastside is one of two centers in the United States for the interactive media industry - an industry expected to experience dynamic growth in coming years. We look forward to working with the industry as it continues to create jobs and otherwise play a very important role in our economic development."
Lt. Gov. Owen said his interest in the cyber and video game industry was piqued last year when he was asked to give a welcoming speech at the World Cyber Games in Seattle, an event that drew competitors from around the world.
“We saw people doing fierce cyber battle with others across the globe, and many of the games that they were playing were developed in Washington,” he said. “This is a growing industry and we are pleased that it is helping to make our economy strong and diverse.”
The meeting will air both on Bellevue TV 21 and TVW in the days following the event - check schedules for listings.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Board of Health Seeks Applications For Public Health Advisory Council
Vancouver, WA – The Clark County Board of Health is seeking applicants to fill two vacancies on the Clark County Public Health Advisory Council.
• The first vacancy is open to doctors of veterinary medicine practicing in Clark County.
• The second vacancy is open to individuals living in Clark County representing consumers of public health services.
The council provides a direct link between the Clark County Board of Health and the community-at-large. Access to care, health disparities, obesity, sustainability/food system, violence prevention, climate change and healthy growth are among the public health issues for 2008.
The council meets the third Tuesday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the main conference room on the second floor of the Center for Community Health, 1601 E. Fourth Plain Blvd., Vancouver.
To be considered, applicants should submit a resume and letter of interest by December 5, 2008 to Jennifer Clark, Board of Clark County Commissioners, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000. Send applications by fax to (360) 397-6058 or e-mail to jennifer.clark@clark.wa.gov.
Please describe why you are interested in serving, what unique perspectives you will bring to the council, and any experiences you have that would lend diversity to the council.
Specific questions may be directed to Julie Grimm at (360) 397-8477.
• The first vacancy is open to doctors of veterinary medicine practicing in Clark County.
• The second vacancy is open to individuals living in Clark County representing consumers of public health services.
The council provides a direct link between the Clark County Board of Health and the community-at-large. Access to care, health disparities, obesity, sustainability/food system, violence prevention, climate change and healthy growth are among the public health issues for 2008.
The council meets the third Tuesday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the main conference room on the second floor of the Center for Community Health, 1601 E. Fourth Plain Blvd., Vancouver.
To be considered, applicants should submit a resume and letter of interest by December 5, 2008 to Jennifer Clark, Board of Clark County Commissioners, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000. Send applications by fax to (360) 397-6058 or e-mail to jennifer.clark@clark.wa.gov.
Please describe why you are interested in serving, what unique perspectives you will bring to the council, and any experiences you have that would lend diversity to the council.
Specific questions may be directed to Julie Grimm at (360) 397-8477.
Port of Woodland Commission Meeting Moved
WOODLAND: The Port of Woodland’s regularly scheduled Commission meeting has been moved from Thursday, November 20th to TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18th.
Woodland Port Commission meetings are held at 5:30 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall located at 100 Davidson Ave., Woodland, WA 98674.
Woodland Port Commission meetings are held at 5:30 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall located at 100 Davidson Ave., Woodland, WA 98674.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Library Board Approves 2009 Budget With Service Reductions
MALL LIBRARY TO REMAIN OPEN AT LEAST THROUGH 2009
VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Fort Vancouver Regional Library District Board of Trustees approved a 2009 operational budget of $17.9 million Monday afternoon, Nov. 10 that will require reduced library hours in several branches, layoffs and other expense cutbacks. The cuts are in response to significant tax-revenue reductions that began in 2008, as well as cost increases.
The Board had previously considered possible closure of Vancouver Mall Community Library at Westfield Vancouver due to lack of funds to complete remodeling that Westfield management had earlier this year presented as mandatory. Mall management recently notified the library district that remodeling could be delayed at least through 2009, with the extent of the remodeling to be negotiable. Westfield also indicated flexibility on library hours, and both of those factors figured into the Board’s decision not to close the branch. The district will continue to negotiate with Westfield on an operating schedule for 2009 and a new lease to replace the current one that expires in January 2010.
Cutbacks in the 2009 budget include:
· A wide variety of reductions in non-personnel budget categories, including training and capital purchases, and a likely significant reduction to the books-by-mail program
· Elimination of several administrative positions
· No pay increases for non-union staff; union staff are due a “step” or longevity increase in 2009 under the terms of the current contract
· Staff layoffs that would thereby require a reduction in open hours by up to one full day at each of six libraries: Battle Ground, Goldendale, Stevenson, Three Creeks, Vancouver (main library) and Vancouver Mall.
Details about the specific schedules for reduced hours and number of employees to be laid off will be worked out by administrative staff in the coming weeks. The district expects to begin implementing the cutbacks in First Quarter 2009.
FVRL Executive Director Bruce Ziegman said, “Over the past weeks, we received many thoughtful messages and suggestions from citizens and staff regarding the options under consideration for bringing our 2009 budget in line with reduced revenue. These were difficult decisions to make because of the impact they have on our employees and library service to our communities. However, we are committed to continuing to provide the very best library service we can in the coming years.”
VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Fort Vancouver Regional Library District Board of Trustees approved a 2009 operational budget of $17.9 million Monday afternoon, Nov. 10 that will require reduced library hours in several branches, layoffs and other expense cutbacks. The cuts are in response to significant tax-revenue reductions that began in 2008, as well as cost increases.
The Board had previously considered possible closure of Vancouver Mall Community Library at Westfield Vancouver due to lack of funds to complete remodeling that Westfield management had earlier this year presented as mandatory. Mall management recently notified the library district that remodeling could be delayed at least through 2009, with the extent of the remodeling to be negotiable. Westfield also indicated flexibility on library hours, and both of those factors figured into the Board’s decision not to close the branch. The district will continue to negotiate with Westfield on an operating schedule for 2009 and a new lease to replace the current one that expires in January 2010.
Cutbacks in the 2009 budget include:
· A wide variety of reductions in non-personnel budget categories, including training and capital purchases, and a likely significant reduction to the books-by-mail program
· Elimination of several administrative positions
· No pay increases for non-union staff; union staff are due a “step” or longevity increase in 2009 under the terms of the current contract
· Staff layoffs that would thereby require a reduction in open hours by up to one full day at each of six libraries: Battle Ground, Goldendale, Stevenson, Three Creeks, Vancouver (main library) and Vancouver Mall.
Details about the specific schedules for reduced hours and number of employees to be laid off will be worked out by administrative staff in the coming weeks. The district expects to begin implementing the cutbacks in First Quarter 2009.
FVRL Executive Director Bruce Ziegman said, “Over the past weeks, we received many thoughtful messages and suggestions from citizens and staff regarding the options under consideration for bringing our 2009 budget in line with reduced revenue. These were difficult decisions to make because of the impact they have on our employees and library service to our communities. However, we are committed to continuing to provide the very best library service we can in the coming years.”
New Edge Networks Wins Industry Award for Developing MPLS over DSL
Innovation is a ‘boon’ to enterprise IT planners, allows businesses to do more with less
VANCOUVER, Wash. – (Nov. 11, 2008) – New Edge Networks, the business communications unit of EarthLink Inc., (NASDAQ: ELNK), was named most innovative competitive communications carrier for its development of a breakthrough corporate wide area network service.
Chicago-based research and consulting firm, New Paradigm Resources Group, and Pipeline magazine selected New Edge as recipient of their 2008 Communications Innovator Award for Most Innovative Competitive Carrier. The award singles out New Edge Networks for developing a telecommunications industry-first network service that allows businesses to tag and prioritize data traffic over DSL access using up to five classes of service.
NPRG and Pipeline received and evaluated numerous nominations to select the “best-of-the-best” innovations.
“That innovation – melding MPLS (short for Multi Protocol Label Switching) and an extensive DSL (digital subscriber line) footprint – is a boon to enterprise IT planners because existing bandwidth is optimized and (wide area network) capacity upgrades can be deferred,” noted NPRG and Pipeline in the award summary.
“Such a breakthrough comes none too soon for those managing growing portfolios of IP-based applications, such as VoIP and real-time databases,” said NPRG and Pipeline.
A copy of the award summary and winners in two other categories is available at www.nprg.com.
New Edge introduced its new MPLS over DSL service last April in response to customer demand for a reliable network service that closes the large pricing gap between traditional business-class DSL and a full T-1 high-speed telephone line.
MPLS over DSL also is an attractive cost-saving option for businesses that previously were forced to use T-1 at all locations. Now businesses can mix and match access technologies based on the specific needs at each location without compromising the value of key MPLS benefits.
“This award affirms the uniqueness and value of this service to multi-site businesses,” said Greg Griffiths, vice president of marketing for New Edge Networks. “We are proud of the recognition from a respected research firm and an industry trade magazine.
“Since its launch, MPLS over DSL has been our biggest network attraction among IT decision makers,” Griffiths said. “The turbulent economic times make MPLS over DSL a more compelling network option for getting a faster return on investments in new computer applications that businesses use to improve productivity, efficiency and customer experience.”
New Edge offers its new service directly and through selling partners nationally in most areas where DSL is available. New Edge has one of the largest DSL networks, able to reach about 90 percent of U. S. business addresses.
VANCOUVER, Wash. – (Nov. 11, 2008) – New Edge Networks, the business communications unit of EarthLink Inc., (NASDAQ: ELNK), was named most innovative competitive communications carrier for its development of a breakthrough corporate wide area network service.
Chicago-based research and consulting firm, New Paradigm Resources Group, and Pipeline magazine selected New Edge as recipient of their 2008 Communications Innovator Award for Most Innovative Competitive Carrier. The award singles out New Edge Networks for developing a telecommunications industry-first network service that allows businesses to tag and prioritize data traffic over DSL access using up to five classes of service.
NPRG and Pipeline received and evaluated numerous nominations to select the “best-of-the-best” innovations.
“That innovation – melding MPLS (short for Multi Protocol Label Switching) and an extensive DSL (digital subscriber line) footprint – is a boon to enterprise IT planners because existing bandwidth is optimized and (wide area network) capacity upgrades can be deferred,” noted NPRG and Pipeline in the award summary.
“Such a breakthrough comes none too soon for those managing growing portfolios of IP-based applications, such as VoIP and real-time databases,” said NPRG and Pipeline.
A copy of the award summary and winners in two other categories is available at www.nprg.com.
New Edge introduced its new MPLS over DSL service last April in response to customer demand for a reliable network service that closes the large pricing gap between traditional business-class DSL and a full T-1 high-speed telephone line.
MPLS over DSL also is an attractive cost-saving option for businesses that previously were forced to use T-1 at all locations. Now businesses can mix and match access technologies based on the specific needs at each location without compromising the value of key MPLS benefits.
“This award affirms the uniqueness and value of this service to multi-site businesses,” said Greg Griffiths, vice president of marketing for New Edge Networks. “We are proud of the recognition from a respected research firm and an industry trade magazine.
“Since its launch, MPLS over DSL has been our biggest network attraction among IT decision makers,” Griffiths said. “The turbulent economic times make MPLS over DSL a more compelling network option for getting a faster return on investments in new computer applications that businesses use to improve productivity, efficiency and customer experience.”
New Edge offers its new service directly and through selling partners nationally in most areas where DSL is available. New Edge has one of the largest DSL networks, able to reach about 90 percent of U. S. business addresses.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Scheffler Northwest, Inc. awarded Oregon Department of Transportation projects
FIRM LANDS TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS VALUING $4 MILLION
VANCOUVER, Wash. (Nov. 05, 2008) – Scheffler Northwest, Inc. was recently designated as the drilling subcontractor on two Oregon Department of Transportation contacts, including installation of foundation infrastructure on Oregon Route 223 and the construction of retaining walls to repair landslides on Oregon Route 6, also known as Wilson River Highway. Scheffler Northwest is a specialty drilling, shoring and construction firm. The company and its sister divisions, DJ Scheffler, Scheffler Nevada and DJ Scheffler Canada, specialize in working in difficult soil conditions and are among the most highly sought after drilling and shoring contractors in the nation.
“Our high-quality and cost-efficient drilling solutions have helped us build solid and long-lasting relationships with local and regional contractors, engineers and owners,” said Mike Zeman, president of Scheffler Northwest. “Our first priority in any project is to take care of our clients. We are often able to find a faster and less expensive solution that other drilling and shoring contractors might not offer.”
The OR6 landslide repair project is a $3 million job to repair three critical slide areas on the OR6 along Wilson River near the city of Banks. Subcontracted by Kerr Contractors, Scheffler Northwest will install three retaining walls with a combined 95 soldier piles, 135 tiebacks anchors and 9,500 square feet of permanent shotcrete facing. This project will help stabilized areas damaged in landslide events and provide flood control. This is a challenging job due to very limited access, the likelihood of snowfall, as well as the installation of soldier piles in excess of 70 feet long while maintaining traffic on a narrow two-lane highway. The project is scheduled to start February 2009 and will duration of approximately four months.
Scheffler Northwest was also subcontracted by Rodarte Construction to install a foundation for the OR223 undercrossing as part of the railroad realignment project in at Sandy Blvd. and Bridge St. in Multnomah County. The nearly $1million project will consist of 25 cantilever soldier piles and 14 drilled shafts, each utilizing temporary and permanent casing and slurry to maintain the shaft sidewalls. The work will be performed 15 feet from an active UPRR Railroad railway, which will require full time railroad flagging and constant work arrests while trains are passing. The project is scheduled to be completed in two phases, the first phase beginning in the forth quarter of 2008 and the second phase during the third quarter of 2009.
“While not a large project, the work at OR223 will be extremely complicated, requiring thorough planning in order to construct the drilled shafts without impact to the railroad,” added Zeman.
During the past two decades, the Scheffler family of companies has completed many landslide repair and drilled shaft foundation projects across the country. The Scheffler companies are often called upon because of their ability to perform in difficult environments, including limited access sites and challenging subsurface conditions. Their innovative techniques and focus on quality have allowed them to construct projects in ways that save both time and money, while exceeding expectations on the finished product.
Scheffler Northwest, Inc. is a geotechnical construction company that specializes in drilled-shaft foundations, temporary and permanent shoring and micropiles. With an experienced management staff dedicated to the Pacific Northwest, the company provides full-service drilling and engineering services to the region. Scheffler Northwest is part of the Scheffler family of companies, which includes D.J. Scheffler, Inc., Scheffler Nevada and D.J. Scheffler Canada. These companies work together to provide innovative drilling and shoring solutions. For more information about Scheffler Northwest, visit www.schefflernorthwest.com.
VANCOUVER, Wash. (Nov. 05, 2008) – Scheffler Northwest, Inc. was recently designated as the drilling subcontractor on two Oregon Department of Transportation contacts, including installation of foundation infrastructure on Oregon Route 223 and the construction of retaining walls to repair landslides on Oregon Route 6, also known as Wilson River Highway. Scheffler Northwest is a specialty drilling, shoring and construction firm. The company and its sister divisions, DJ Scheffler, Scheffler Nevada and DJ Scheffler Canada, specialize in working in difficult soil conditions and are among the most highly sought after drilling and shoring contractors in the nation.
“Our high-quality and cost-efficient drilling solutions have helped us build solid and long-lasting relationships with local and regional contractors, engineers and owners,” said Mike Zeman, president of Scheffler Northwest. “Our first priority in any project is to take care of our clients. We are often able to find a faster and less expensive solution that other drilling and shoring contractors might not offer.”
The OR6 landslide repair project is a $3 million job to repair three critical slide areas on the OR6 along Wilson River near the city of Banks. Subcontracted by Kerr Contractors, Scheffler Northwest will install three retaining walls with a combined 95 soldier piles, 135 tiebacks anchors and 9,500 square feet of permanent shotcrete facing. This project will help stabilized areas damaged in landslide events and provide flood control. This is a challenging job due to very limited access, the likelihood of snowfall, as well as the installation of soldier piles in excess of 70 feet long while maintaining traffic on a narrow two-lane highway. The project is scheduled to start February 2009 and will duration of approximately four months.
Scheffler Northwest was also subcontracted by Rodarte Construction to install a foundation for the OR223 undercrossing as part of the railroad realignment project in at Sandy Blvd. and Bridge St. in Multnomah County. The nearly $1million project will consist of 25 cantilever soldier piles and 14 drilled shafts, each utilizing temporary and permanent casing and slurry to maintain the shaft sidewalls. The work will be performed 15 feet from an active UPRR Railroad railway, which will require full time railroad flagging and constant work arrests while trains are passing. The project is scheduled to be completed in two phases, the first phase beginning in the forth quarter of 2008 and the second phase during the third quarter of 2009.
“While not a large project, the work at OR223 will be extremely complicated, requiring thorough planning in order to construct the drilled shafts without impact to the railroad,” added Zeman.
During the past two decades, the Scheffler family of companies has completed many landslide repair and drilled shaft foundation projects across the country. The Scheffler companies are often called upon because of their ability to perform in difficult environments, including limited access sites and challenging subsurface conditions. Their innovative techniques and focus on quality have allowed them to construct projects in ways that save both time and money, while exceeding expectations on the finished product.
Scheffler Northwest, Inc. is a geotechnical construction company that specializes in drilled-shaft foundations, temporary and permanent shoring and micropiles. With an experienced management staff dedicated to the Pacific Northwest, the company provides full-service drilling and engineering services to the region. Scheffler Northwest is part of the Scheffler family of companies, which includes D.J. Scheffler, Inc., Scheffler Nevada and D.J. Scheffler Canada. These companies work together to provide innovative drilling and shoring solutions. For more information about Scheffler Northwest, visit www.schefflernorthwest.com.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Three Creeks Group To Hear About Merger Study For Sewer District
Vancouver, WA – Clark County’s Three Creeks Advisory Council will meet November 13 from 10 a.m. to noon. The meeting will be open to the public, at the offices of the Clark Regional Wastewater District, 8000 NE 52nd Court, in the Hazel Dell area.
The agenda will include a discussion about a study concerning the potential for the regional wastewater district to merge with other jurisdictions. In addition, there will be a presentation about proposed plan to guide the future of Highway 99 and neighborhoods nearby. More information about the Highway 99 planning effort is available on the county’s web site.
The Board of Clark County Commissioners appointed the council to assist the county on transportation, land-use planning and related issues in the Three Creeks planning area, which includes unincorporated areas around Hazel Dell, Felida, Lake Shore, Salmon Creek and the fairgrounds.
The agenda will include a discussion about a study concerning the potential for the regional wastewater district to merge with other jurisdictions. In addition, there will be a presentation about proposed plan to guide the future of Highway 99 and neighborhoods nearby. More information about the Highway 99 planning effort is available on the county’s web site.
The Board of Clark County Commissioners appointed the council to assist the county on transportation, land-use planning and related issues in the Three Creeks planning area, which includes unincorporated areas around Hazel Dell, Felida, Lake Shore, Salmon Creek and the fairgrounds.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Clark College Orchestra Presents Italia
VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Clark College Orchestra, Dr. Donald Appert, Music Director, will present the first concert entitled Italia of its 2008-2009 Season “A European Tour” on Wednesday, December 3, in the Royal Durst Theatre of the Vancouver School of Arts & Academics, 3101 Main St., Vancouver. Italian guest conductor Antonello Gotta will conduct Verdi’s Overture to Nabucco, Tchaikosky’s Capriccio italien, and Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2. The featured soloist will be his colleague from Italy Maurizio Barboro. The performance is at 7:30 p.m., and admission is free and open to the public. Donations to the Orchestra General Fund will be accepted at the door.
Antonello Gotta studied piano, composition, and conducting at the Turin Conservatory and graduated with distinction. Among his many different awards in national and international competitions, he received first prize in the “Robert Schumann” International Piano Competition in 1984. He has worked in Italy and abroad as a pianist and conductor. He has conducted chamber music, symphonic music, and opera in Italy, Rumania, Russia, Germany, France, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Macedonia, Great Britain, and the United States.
From 1989 to 1993 Maestro Gotta was a member of the Central Commission of Music in the Italian Ministry of Tourism. In collaboration with Gualtiero Gatto, he was co-founder of the Italian Opera Company which has recorded more than 40 CD’s for BMG Publications, including Puccini’s “Madame Butterfly” for the Ricordi Publishing House Centennial celebration. Their latest recording “Classics on set” has just been released.
He is often a member of the jury for important musical competitions in Italy and abroad. Currently he is a member of the faculty at the “Giuseppe Verdi” Conservatory in Turin, Italy.
Maurizio Barboro’s musical education took place under the guidance of Lya De Barberiis at the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia in Rome. He won several international piano contests, and in 1980 began an intense concert activity, collaborating with famous conductors and prestigious orchestras all over Europe and in Asia and North America. Since 1996 he is the “artist in residence” of the Dumitrescu Philharmonic Orchestra of Valcea (Romania).
In 1999 Barboro made his debut in the United States, where now he is periodically invited to hold master classes at institutions such as the Boston Conservatory, the Longy School of Music and the Rivers School. In October 2000 he inaugurated the symphonic season of the Berkshire Symphony Orchestra (Massachusetts) with Rachmaninoff’s Second Concert. In April 2001 he played Shostakovich’s Second Concerto, accompanied by the prestigious Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra at the Ateneu Hall of Bucharest. He is also as a member of the Nuovo Quartetto Pianistico Italiano.
Barboro is the holder of the chair of Piano of the Ghedini Conservatory of Cuneo and a teacher at International Specialization Courses. He is a member of the jury of several prestigious international contests, artistic director of the Franz Schubert International Contest and of the Alfredo Casella Musical Association, and president of the Città di Racconigi International Contest. He has recorded the complete collection of Shostakovich’s Concertos for Piano and Orchestra, accompanied by the Belarus National Philharmonic Orchestra, and a CD in world premiere with the Nuovo Quantetto Pianistico Italiano.
Antonello Gotta studied piano, composition, and conducting at the Turin Conservatory and graduated with distinction. Among his many different awards in national and international competitions, he received first prize in the “Robert Schumann” International Piano Competition in 1984. He has worked in Italy and abroad as a pianist and conductor. He has conducted chamber music, symphonic music, and opera in Italy, Rumania, Russia, Germany, France, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Macedonia, Great Britain, and the United States.
From 1989 to 1993 Maestro Gotta was a member of the Central Commission of Music in the Italian Ministry of Tourism. In collaboration with Gualtiero Gatto, he was co-founder of the Italian Opera Company which has recorded more than 40 CD’s for BMG Publications, including Puccini’s “Madame Butterfly” for the Ricordi Publishing House Centennial celebration. Their latest recording “Classics on set” has just been released.
He is often a member of the jury for important musical competitions in Italy and abroad. Currently he is a member of the faculty at the “Giuseppe Verdi” Conservatory in Turin, Italy.
Maurizio Barboro’s musical education took place under the guidance of Lya De Barberiis at the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia in Rome. He won several international piano contests, and in 1980 began an intense concert activity, collaborating with famous conductors and prestigious orchestras all over Europe and in Asia and North America. Since 1996 he is the “artist in residence” of the Dumitrescu Philharmonic Orchestra of Valcea (Romania).
In 1999 Barboro made his debut in the United States, where now he is periodically invited to hold master classes at institutions such as the Boston Conservatory, the Longy School of Music and the Rivers School. In October 2000 he inaugurated the symphonic season of the Berkshire Symphony Orchestra (Massachusetts) with Rachmaninoff’s Second Concert. In April 2001 he played Shostakovich’s Second Concerto, accompanied by the prestigious Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra at the Ateneu Hall of Bucharest. He is also as a member of the Nuovo Quartetto Pianistico Italiano.
Barboro is the holder of the chair of Piano of the Ghedini Conservatory of Cuneo and a teacher at International Specialization Courses. He is a member of the jury of several prestigious international contests, artistic director of the Franz Schubert International Contest and of the Alfredo Casella Musical Association, and president of the Città di Racconigi International Contest. He has recorded the complete collection of Shostakovich’s Concertos for Piano and Orchestra, accompanied by the Belarus National Philharmonic Orchestra, and a CD in world premiere with the Nuovo Quantetto Pianistico Italiano.
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