Read the story at Reuters ]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2008 http://www.buildingonline.com/news/viewnews.pl?id=7373&subcategory=60 TOANO, VA -- Lumber Liquidators, Inc., the largest specialty retailer of hardwood flooring in the U.S., said it more than doubled its net income during the second quarter to $5.9 million, on net sales of $128 million -- a sales increase of 21.1%.

Jeffrey W. Griffiths, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We generated net income in the second quarter that was the best in our Company's history. We are very pleased to have achieved strong top- and bottom-line growth for the quarter and to have extended our positive momentum through the first half of 2008. We continued to experience increasing customer demand for our products and high acceptance for our appealing value proposition. In addition, improvements we have made in our merchandise assortment, in-stock positions and inventory allocation are reflected in our results. Overall, our performance to date this year reflects the increased discipline we have brought to our business as well as our entire team's ability to execute our business plan. Importantly, we are continuing to benefit from our recent operational improvements, which provide us with a solid foundation for long-term growth."

The company also increased its outlook for all of 2008. It now expects net sales to range from $480 million to $490 million compared to its previously expected range of $475 million to $490 million. However the company did scale back the number of stores it expects to open from, now expected to be from 33 to 38 stores.

Mr. Griffiths concluded, "We are encouraged by our strong performance in the first six months of 2008, especially given the challenging environment, and we are optimistic about our prospects for the second half of the year. Our new stores continue to perform ahead of our expectations and remain a significant contributor to our results. In addition, our stronger infrastructure is enabling us to create additional efficiencies while positioning our business for long-term effectiveness. We remain confident in our ability to execute our growth strategy focused on extending our footprint, growing sales and driving sustained operating margin expansion."

The RMI measures remodeler perceptions of market demand for current and future residential remodeling projects. Any number over 50 indicates that the majority of remodelers view market conditions as improving. The RMI has been running below 50 since the final quarter of 2005, implying shrinkage of remodeling expenditures since that time.

"Remodelers are experiencing slower activity in markets nationwide, particularly for major improvements to owner-occupied housing" said NAHB Remodelers Chairman Lonny Rutherford, CGR, CAPS, CGP, a remodeler from Farmington, N. M. "While markets remain pretty active, most remodelers are taking on a greater number of smaller jobs to maintain their businesses."

The index shows a gradual decline in overall remodeling activity since 2005. Nationally, major additions and alterations declined slightly to 43.18 (from 44.15) during the second quarter, while minor additions and alterations increased slightly to 42.89 (from 41.57). Maintenance and repair declined to 39.06 (from 39.68).

"As in previous economic downturns, remodeling activity is proving to be cyclical rather than countercyclical, although the degree of decline pales in comparison to the setbacks registered in the new-home market, said NAHB Chief Economist David Seiders. "We expect remodeling to remain generally flat in 2009 followed by strong growth due to home maintenance needs."

Regionally, current market expectations dropped in the second quarter, with the Northeast falling to 32.8 (from 36.4), the South to 40.1 (from 42.2), and the West to 42.4 (from 42.9). The Midwest, however, increased to 52.9 (from 44.1). All measures for future expectation (calls for bids, amount of work committed for next three months and appointments for proposals) slumped slightly except for a small increase in backlog of remodeling jobs at 42.13 (from 41).

Eighty-four percent of surveyed remodelers also reported home builders diversifying into remodeling due to the downturn in home building, thus contributing to more saturated remodeling market conditions.

The BP Solar Home Solutions® systems are estimated to reduce the homes' electric bills by up to 60% per home, in addition to the approximately 30% energy usage reduction Trilogy homes already achieve with the Shea Green Certified™ standards for home building. Each home will be equipped with a 3-kilowatt solar power system, which helps provide security against electric rate increases, allowing consumers to hedge their future risks in the volatile energy markets.

"With the addition of solar in a home, we're no longer just efficient users of electricity, we become producers. Integrating a solar system into a home during construction is less expensive than adding it later, making solar more accessible and affordable than it's ever been," said Rick Andreen, president of Shea Homes' Active Lifestyle Communities. "Trilogy homes pass the true test of a 'green' home by integrating a mix of energy-saving and energy-generating devices that deliver immediate and long-term benefits for our customer."

Solar systems will be free through August 31st to new homebuyers in Trilogy communities in Arizona, California, Florida and Washington. After August 31st the systems will be available as an upgrade option. Homeowners will be able to track how much power their system is producing, along with its environmental benefits, via a Web-based remote monitoring system.

To maintain a consistent and visually appealing look for its high-end resort communities, Trilogy chose BP Solar's EnergyTile and Integra® systems. The EnergyTile roof-integrated solar electric system emulates the shape of common flat concrete tile roofs, making it one of the industry's most aesthetically pleasing solutions for tile roof applications. The Integra system offers a low-profile installation, enhancing the look on asphalt shingle roofs.

"We're proud to be Trilogy's exclusive solar provider as they become the first national residential builder to introduce solar across all of their communities," said Mary Shields, global vice president of marketing for BP Solar. "We are pleased to see that home builders around the country increasingly see the value that solar brings to their homes as well as to their homebuyers."

Trilogy communities are high-end resort communities offering a new choice in living to those looking for an exciting lifestyle that revolves around wellness, exploration, continued learning, and close personal connections. More information is available by visiting http://www.TrilogyLife.com or calling (800) 685-6494.

Check it out at: http://www.buildernewsmag.com/viewnews.pl?id=1029

"As our third quarter results illustrate, difficult operating conditions in the homebuilding industry persist," said Ian J. McCarthy, President and Chief Executive Officer. "Despite lower home prices, relatively low interest rates and a large choice of available homes, potential homebuyers remain reluctant due to eroding consumer confidence amid concerns about employment growth, higher energy costs and the overall economy. Based on these demand dynamics, coupled with high supply levels of new and existing home inventory, we believe industry conditions will remain challenging for the remainder of this fiscal year and as we enter fiscal 2009."

The Company had a cash balance of $314.2 million, an increase from $273.7 million as of March 31, 2008.

During the quarter, the company closed 1,677 homes, compared to 2,659 in the third quarter of the prior year. The average sales price was $257,400 compared to $282,100 in the third quarter of the prior year.

Read more at Reuters

"The initial response is encouraging," said NAHB President Sandy Dunn, a home builder from Point Pleasant, W.Va. "This could be the trigger that helps move prospective first-time buyers off the fence and back into the market. But it won't last forever."

The tax credit is among several provisions included in landmark housing legislation enacted into law last month that will help get housing and the economy back on their feet.

The Web site contains useful information on how the tax credit works, including eligibility requirements. To date, the site has attracted 116,000 unique visitors, or about 10,000 per day. It includes details and questions and answers on how home buyers can use the credit and is divided into four sections:

- Tax Credit at a Glance. This provides a brief overview on how the credit works.

- Frequently Asked Questions. A clear to read question and answer format contains basic information about the tax credit, including the definition of a first-time home buyer, what type of homes qualify for the tax credit, what are the income limits to qualify, payback provisions and more.

- The Law's Other Provisions. In addition to the tax credit, this section summarizes a number of provisions in the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 that will help prevent foreclosures, reinvigorate the housing market and strengthen the nation's economy.

- Home Buyer Resources. Provides online resources to make the buying process smoother.

Visit it now at: www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com

The study, now in its second year, measures satisfaction among consumers who purchased new windows or patio doors. Overall satisfaction is based on performance in seven factors (in order of importance): ordering and delivery (22%); value (21%); operational performance (15%); product quality/durability (14%); appearance and design features (12%); repair and replacement (10%); and warranty (8%). Respondents may have installed the windows or patio doors themselves or with help from family and friends; hired an independent contractor, handyman or remodeler; used an installation service provided by a home improvement retailer; or used an installation service provided by the product manufacturer.

Pella achieves a score of 794 on a 1,000-point scale and performs particularly well in five of the seven factors: operational performance; product quality/durability; appearance and design features; warranty; and ordering and delivery. Marvin closely follows Pella in the rankings with a score of 792, performing well in the value and ordering and delivery factors. In addition, Marvin posts the greatest improvement in rank position since 2007 of any manufacturer included in the study. Andersen ranks third with an index score of 790, performing particularly well in the warranty and repair and replacement factors.

The study finds that a relatively small percentage of consumers -- approximately one in ten -- report experiencing a problem with their windows or patio doors. Among those customers who report a problem, failure of the window or patio door to close or lock properly is the most frequently cited issue, mentioned by one in five consumers who report a problem.

"With overall satisfaction remaining stable since 2007, it is apparent that window and patio door manufacturers are continuing to doing a good job of pleasing their customers, which is no small feat in these tight economic times," said Jim Howland, senior director in the real estate industries practice at J.D. Power and Associates. "In this highly competitive industry, those manufacturers that provide products with superior quality -- including a particularly low incidence of problems -- and that also communicate the value of their products and services to the consumer will be in the best position to differentiate themselves from the competition."

The study also finds that consumers who install their new windows and patio doors themselves are just as satisfied with the experience, on average, as consumers who use an installation service, handyman or independent contractor.

"Given that proper installation is critical to good window performance, it may seem counterintuitive that customer satisfaction with self-installed windows is commensurate to that of customers with windows installed by a contractor or handyman, but study data shows that this is indeed the case," said Howland. "For those consumers who are considering performing installation themselves, they should make sure they are comfortable with the particulars of the project, including the exterior siding material of the home; scope of the job -- including the number and sizes of windows required; whether windows will be retro-fitted or replaced; local code requirements; whether any special tools are required; and their personal skill level. Consumers may wish to turn to manufacturer web sites for help, since they often provide detailed product installation information."

The 2008 Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction Study is based on responses from 2,433 consumers who purchased new windows or patio doors in the previous 12 months. The study was fielded in March and April 2008.

Customer Satisfaction Index Ranking J.D. Power.com
(Power Circle Ratings in parenthesis)

Based on a 1,000-point scale-For Consumers:
Pella 794 (5 ranking)
Marvin 792 (5 ranking)
Andersen 790 (5 ranking)

Industry Average 781 (3 ranking)

Milgard 771 (2 ranking)
American Craftsman 766 (2 ranking)
JELD-WEN 761 (2 ranking)
Weather Shield 746 (2 ranking)

Power Circle Ratings Legend:
5 - Among the best
4 - Better than most
3 - About average
2 - The rest

Some of the product can prematurely deteriorate and break, posing a risk of injury to consumers. LP decking products, including deck board and railings sold under the names of LP WeatherBest®, WeatherBest®, ABTCo and Veranda® are subject to this advisory.

The products are used for building outdoor decks. LP has received claims of premature deterioration of a small portion of its decking product due to variations in manufacturing processes in this time frame.

LP Executive Vice President of Specialty Products and Sales Rick Olszewski said, "We want consumers to be aware of the potential risk of injury, and to contact us. Though only a small portion of decking sold has been affected by these issues, we urge people who bought or installed these composite decking products after January 1, 2005 to contact us for an inspection through our decking notice Web site or customer service line."

The decking advisory Web site is at www.deckingnotice.com

Products Affected
WeatherBest, ABTCo and Veranda are composite products that look similar to natural wood and are sold in several different colors, including Driftwood Grey, Pacific Cedar, Tuscan Walnut, Western Redwood, Chestnut and Greystone.

The affected products were sold after January 1, 2005 under the WeatherBest name at building products dealers nationwide, and under the Veranda and ABTCo brands at The Home Depot stores in the western part of the U.S.

Only those Veranda decking and railing products manufactured by LP are the subject of this advisory. WeatherBest products manufactured after LP's sale of the Meridian plant in October 2007 are not affected.

Consumers should check their Veranda, WeatherBest or ABTCo decking materials for visible cracks or deterioration on the surface, and/or chipping of the surface layers. If the deck or railing is deteriorating, do not use the deck. Contact LP Decking Customer Service to promptly arrange for an inspection of the deck.

Even if there is no visible sign of deterioration, if you purchased Veranda or WeatherBest decking or railing products after January 1, 2005, please visit the decking advisory Web site at www.deckingnotice.com or contact LP Decking Customer Service to register and determine if your deck is among the products affected.

Veranda is produced by several manufacturers, but only product produced by LP is affected by this advisory. Visit www.deckingnotice.com or contact LP Decking Customer Service for help in determining which product you may have.

For more information, help identifying the products or to arrange an inspection, go to LP's decking advisory Web site at www.deckingnotice.com or contact LP Decking Customer Service at 1.888.325.1184.

Read an article on the problem at MSNBC.com

"The decision to sell Welcome Wagon was not made lightly," said Move Inc. President Lorna M. Borenstein during a teleconference to discuss the company's earnings. "However, we know that we have to not only be willing, but decisive, about shifting or eliminating resources if they cannot contribute to the overall growth of the business. The same is true of our planned expense reductions."

Despite the loss, the company said its Realtor.com website Realtor.com achieved its highest June and July sales in history.

"The issues and challenges facing the residential real estate market are creating a permanent dislocation in the offline real estate advertising market with online spending benefiting in the long run," said Mike Long, Move's CEO. "As the market recovers, the needs of consumers and advertisers will be quite different than they are today. We have a clear strategy to meet those needs and are adjusting our business to focus on assets and new development initiatives that are essential to our long term strategy while eliminating unprofitable revenue streams and improving cash flow to invest in growth. Our success has been, and will continue to be, driven by our clear market leadership, as consumers have shown through their actions that Move is the most trusted source in online real estate."

Listen now at: www.oncenter.com/demo_center/podcast.html

A panel of remodeling market pros will explain how you can keep selling in this down market, maximize revenue and more. You can even email questions to the panel that they will answer during the seminar.

Learn more and register online at the HousingZone.com

Many projects are easy and low-cost (often less than $5), with a big impact. Efficient showerheads, for instance, can pay for themselves 10-20 times over in the first year alone! Adding insulation and a programmable thermostat could cut energy costs by 50% in some homes. Green improvements also bring higher prices and more buyers when selling a home.

Features:
--65 projects -- flooring, paint, cabinetry/countertops, windows, doors, insulation/weatherstripping, roofing, siding, heating and cooling, lighting, appliances, bath fixtures, solar systems, paving, pools, and landscaping.

--100+ "Go Green" tips – instant, low- or no-cost ways to save energy and water and make homes healthier/more comfortable.

--Advice for building a new home – points to discuss with a builder or architect.

Michael Berry, Chair of the National Association of Home Builders Boston chapter's Sustainable Building Committee, says, "This book will help homeowners green their homes cost-effectively -- saving energy and becoming better stewards of the environment."

About the Author
Dan Chiras, PhD, is a well-known green building expert who advises homeowners, architects, builders, and developers throughout the U.S. and Canada. He has published 24 books and hundreds of articles, and presented lectures and workshops to universities, the general public, and organizations including the U.S. Green Building Council and American Institute of Architects. Dan was recently filmed for a Discovery Channel "Planet Green" series, executive-produced by Leonardo Di Caprio. Dan designed his own green home, featured on NBC's "Nightly News."

Learn more at: http://www.rsmeans.com/bookstore/detail.asp?sku=67355

To learn more, and register to win a $500 gift certificate to shop the show, go to: www.southernshows.com/hfr/

Integration Solves a Common Challenge
"SpruceWare.NET users are already familiar with the benefits of the most modern yet easy to use Windows-based software available for their businesses," said Rob Fitzpatrick, President of Spruce Computer Systems. "Up until now, though, their rental departments have had to compromise in order to get receivables, sales tax and general ledger to balance between the rental departments and stores. Integrating Enfinity into SpruceWare.NET solves that problem."

Both SpruceWare.NET and Enfinity were written from the ground up as true Windows software packages, and the simple integration between the two allows rental transactions and purchases to be combined on the same ticket. Sales tax and receivables are handled by the SpruceWare.NET system for easy tracking and reconciliation, and the rental activities are tracked and processed using the full functionality of the Enfinity rental management system.

Learn more about the show at: http://www.texashomeandgarden.com//index.cfm?npageid=577

Since all Tile Redi shower pans allow ceramic, glass or stone tiles to be adhered directly to the surface, each drain is manufactured in a square form, rather than a circle, to make the drain easier to tile around. The designer drain plates are available in 18 variations of the standard base colors, including Black, Brass, Bronze, Chrome, Copper, Nickel and White, in order to match the existing hardware in the bathroom.

Tile Redi's unique line of products have set a new industry standard for labor- and time-reducing shower installations. For both the residential and commercial construction sectors, Tile Redi shower pans are mold-free and 100 percent leak-proof with no additional on-site shower pan waterproofing required at the time of the installation.

Tile Redi patented and UL-listed shower pans are manufactured as pre-formed, one-piece molded shower modules. Complete with fully integrated drains, curbs and splash walls, each leak-proof unit is pre-pitched for easy drainage. By solving water intrusion problems, Tile Redi shower pans inhibit the growth of mold and mildew. For further information, visit: http://www.tileredi.com

The Forum will provide tile roof contractors, manufacturers, builders and design professionals a platform for networking; technical updates; market trends; and new product showcases. Educational events take place both days and will feature exhibiting booths of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of tile roofing products and services.

"Our Fall Forum is designed to communicate critical updates and trends that affect not only the nation as a whole, but also the unique issues in the Florida region," says Jeanne Sheehy, TRI managing director. "Topics such as contractor certification, economic forecasting, green building trends and code changes all have a major impact on business decisions made by our members."

Other highlights include:

--TRI Specialist Certification Program - This one-day course offers contractor/owners, estimators, inspectors, consultants and design/building professionals valuable information on tile, including tile markets, tile's design features and benefits, materials specifications, code regulations, estimating, ordering and improved management of roof tile jobs.

--Economic Forecast - Nationally recognized Economic Expert Christopher Thornberg will provide an updated national and regional economic forecast, and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the building and construction industry.

--State of the Institute Address - TRI Chairman Brian Austin will offer updates on developments and initiatives underway at TRI and the tile roofing industry.

--FRSA Update - FRSA President Keith Swope will provide informative updates on the issues facing Florida roofing contractors from hurricane prevention to installation advancements.

--Green Building Panel - Representatives from the Florida Solar Energy Commission, National Association of Home Builders, Florida Green Building Council and Schroeders Homes will discuss the social and economic impact of the green building trend and opportunities for the tile roofing industry.

Online registration is available at www.regonline.com/fallforum08

The accusations are especially sensitive, since 12 workers have died on strip-adjacent projects during the past 18 months, according to the article.

Read the story at the Las Vegas Review Journal

You can also check out live webcams of the CityCenter project at: www.citycenter.com/luxury_las_vegas_condos/construction.aspx]]> Tue, 12 Aug 2008 http://www.buildingonline.com/news/viewnews.pl?id=7378&subcategory=171 LINCOLN, VA -- Cochran's Stone Masonry and Timberframing, a company specializing in the restoration and stabilization of historic properties, period inspired new construction, hand hewing, lime mortar and lime wash, relocation of historic structures, and construction using historically correct methods and materials is now available for selected projects nationwide.

Allen Cochran, founder and owner of Cochran's Stone Masonry and Timberframing, is a leader in the lime mortar renaissance and timber framing said, "We are passionate about maintaining the integrity of historic buildings and leaving a legacy of living history for generations to come. That objective can only be attained by the careful use of historic craftsman methods and materials." Cochran's Stone Masonry and Timberframing has been in the business of stabilization and restoration of historic properties for over 20 years. The company has relocated many historic structures by documenting the building, photographing and cataloguing the components, disassembling, and relocating the structure to a new site.

Cochran's Stone Masonry and Timberframing is located in historic Lincoln, Virginia, and has completed projects all over the United States. Projects include Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Montpellier, and countless historic structures in many locations. Lime putty is manufactured onsite and is available for distribution. Salvaged logs and timbers to repair and replace damaged timber frames are also available and if new wood is needed, can be milled to exact specifications. The company also builds wedged dove tail doors and mantels for the use in construction and restoration projects.

For more information, go to http://www.cochransstonemasonry.com or call 540-338-1603.

Beginning August 1, 2008, and ending October 19, 2008 homeowners will have the opportunity to share their kitchen or bath remodeling story, upload photos and video online at www.showusyourstyle.com, competing for a grand-prize package worth $10,000. Moen will choose eight finalists, who will each be awarded $1,000 Visa gift cards. Between November 1, 2008 and November 15, 2008, the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite kitchen or bath design. Moen will then announce the grand-prize winner, who will receive $9,000 cash and $1,000 worth of Moen product!

"This online contest continues to grow and reach out to consumers who want to share their remodeling experiences," said Ginny Long of Moen, director, online and direct marketing. "We are excited to sponsor this contest and look forward to reviewing their interesting remodeling stories, tips, videos and photos as well as letting the public cast their vote for their favorite finalist."

Moen created the "Show Us Your Style" contest in 2004 as a way to help homeowners come up with creative and affordable ways to renovate their kitchens and bathrooms and experiment with bath and kitchen design.

Don't forget to keep checking the site during the contest as new kitchen and bath designs, remodeling stories, photos and videos will be posted daily. The "Show Us Your Style" site also includes the latest style tips, trends and new product information to help you splash or cook-up some style in your bathroom or kitchen.

For more information on the 5th annual "Show Us Your Style" contest, visit www.showusyourstyle.com or call 1-800-BUY-MOEN (1-800-289-6636).

"In light of the challenging homebuilding environment, we recognize the need to realign our business across the country to reflect local conditions," said Stanley M. Wilson, President and Chief Operating Officer. "The closure of the SelectBuild Florida facilities is in direct response to the challenging business environment in Florida. The Florida market has weakened considerably and we anticipate it will be some time before improvement is seen. Housing starts in the Florida market have dropped from a peak of 265,000 in 2005 to only 99,000 in 2007 and an estimated 61,000 in 2008."

This action affects approximately 140 employees at SelectBuild Florida's shell, truss and stair operations throughout the state. SelectBuild intends to complete all construction in progress and fulfill all outstanding contractual obligations during a four month wind-down period.

"We thank all the employees of SelectBuild Florida for their long record of hard work and commitment to the Company. Today's announcement is by no means a reflection on the performance of our workforce; rather it is an unfortunate result of the current condition of Florida's construction marketplace," added Mr. Wilson.

To learn more about BMHC, visit www.bmhc.com

Learn more at Greenbiz.com

]]> Thu, 07 Aug 2008 http://www.buildingonline.com/news/viewnews.pl?id=7350&subcategory=13 SCOTTSDALE, AZ -- Homebuilder Taylor Morrison has shifted its North American headquarters westward, moving its base of operations from Florida to Arizona.

The homebuilder relocated its corporate offices to Scottsdale, Ariz., at the end of July to better align the company's headquarters with its strongest home building markets, said Taylor Morrison President and Chief Executive Officer Sheryl Palmer.

"We see our relocation to Arizona as being beneficial for Taylor Morrison as a whole," Palmer said. "Our biggest markets are located in the western United States and they will provide significant growth for the company in years to come."

Taylor Morrison currently operates more than 200 communities across the United States. The company also operates in Canada as the Monarch Corporation.

The new Scottsdale location allows for convenient access to the company's Texas, Colorado, Nevada, California and Arizona communities, Palmer said. Florida, where the company had been based since its July 2007 merger, remains a key market and an integral piece of the company's future growth, she said.

For more information visit www.taylormorrison.com

Carl C. Icahn, chairman of WCI's Board of Directors said, "The company, with all diligence, has attempted to avoid a bankruptcy filing. However, the filing became necessary because of the recent failed effort to obtain financing and the recognition that the company's entire $1.8 billion of debt may soon be in default."

WCI also announced that it and Jerry L. Starkey, who served as WCI's chief executive officer since 2005, mutually determined that, with the company going in a new direction and operating in bankruptcy, it is time for new leadership at the CEO level. Accordingly, Mr. Starkey will leave the company effective immediately.

David L. Fry, 48, has been appointed by the Board to act as interim president and chief executive officer, pending the selection of a permanent CEO. The Board intends to commence its search for a new chief executive officer and president immediately. Mr. Fry joined WCI in 1995 and was appointed as chief operating officer in November 2007. In addition to his new responsibilities, Mr. Fry will continue to be responsible for WCI's operations nationwide.

"Day-to-day operations will continue as usual, while we work with our stakeholders to restructure the balance sheet," said Fry. "We will continue to sell, build and deliver homes without interruption. Construction and sales activities will continue; employees will come to work and be paid."

Mr. Fry said that recreational amenities and services at each of the company's clubs and community associations will also continue, adding that the company has requested Court permission to continue to pay the full amount of its dues and deficit obligations to its various community associations and clubs.

Prudential Florida WCI Realty will continue to provide a full menu of real estate services, including new home and resale brokerage services, as well as foreclosure and rental management services. The company said realtors, brokers and customers will see no interruption in these services. All commissions and other obligations will be honored and paid. WCI Mortgage, an affiliate of Well Fargo Home Mortgage, will continue to offer competitive mortgage packages and will honor all of its existing obligations.

WCI Communities has established a toll-free information line for vendors, customers and other interested parties. The number is 800-924-1890. Information is also available at wcicommunities.com

This seminar is open to owners, presidents, and key management staff. The registration fee is $1,500 for each registrant, which includes tuition, manual with forms and refreshment breaks. It does not include hotel room, food or travel.

Date:
Monday, September 22, 2008 - Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Location:
Chicago, IL

Times:
Monday and Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm;
Wednesday 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Learn more and register online here

"With Art Steinhafel's leadership, this group has an ideal mix of industry experience and talent," stated Bob Burns, Atrium's chief operating officer. "Their varied backgrounds and disciplines within the company will be invaluable to leading the Champion business and ensuring the success of key initiatives in the region." 

"This new team offers a combination of operational leadership and sales experience that will allow us to enhance the customer's experience with the highest level of service and performance moving forward," stated Art Steinhafel, president of Atrium's Central Region. 

As Atrium's senior vice president of operations, van Ravenswaay brings extensive experience in the window and door industry, and offers diverse leadership ability with more than 20 years manufacturing management experience. Rucker has an extensive background at various levels in national builder sales and program management, too. Having worked for some of the largest building products companies in the world, he provides a deep understanding of the builder channel on both a regional and national level. Rucker will continue to coordinate national builder relationships for Atrium Corporate in addition to his Champion Windows responsibilities. Pfeifer brings more than 12 years of sales experience to the Atrium team, with a dedicated focus to the Texas market throughout his career.

The new guide contains a wealth of information on such topics as public policy, certification programs, financial considerations, rebates/incentives and more.

Get your arms around the need-to-know issues in green building by educating yourself. Check it out today: www.biaoc.com/greenbuilding

Certified Green Dealer™ is a Web-based "distance learning" program that uses online multi-media training and printed resource materials to educate and certify building material dealers as sources of information about green building and green products.

"We're thrilled to be in the program," said Matt Liska, Vice President Sales, who will oversee the program's implementation. "Green products and green practices is a sector that is growing quickly. We are excited to be one of the first companies in our industry to train our entire sales force in the basics of green products and practices. Our builder customers look to us for more than just products and prices; they look to us for value-added solutions. Builders FirstSource is committed to having the most knowledgeable sales force in the industry. This program will allow us to provide our customers cutting edge green building solutions and will further differentiate us from others in our industry."

Created under the auspices of LBM Journal, the Certified Green Dealer(tm) Program is not affiliated with any particular national standards-setting organization, such as NAHB or USGBC's LEED program. Instead, the certification is based entirely on demonstrated mastery by the lumber dealer personnel of "best practices" building science and green building basics. More information is available at www.CertifiedGreenDealer.com

"Mounting fuel prices have created the need for a ready-mix price increase," said Gilberto Perez, President of CEMEX USA. "We have put forth this new, transparent pricing structure that will allow our customers to count on a firm price through January 2010. We are effectively removing all fuel surcharges and taking on fuel price risk through this time." Fuel prices have increased 107 percent since December 2006.

To give time for customers to prepare for the increase, CEMEX will begin quoting the new prices on October 1st. All written quotes prior to October 1st will not include the $25 increase and will continue to be subject to fuel surcharges for the duration of the project. CEMEX will honor previous written contracts.

"This year's survey reveals an important industry concern," said Electrical Contractor Publisher John Maisel. "It also shows the electrical contractor's changing role as a trusted design/build partner who chooses and influences brands, with a growing involvement in integrated building systems."

According to the survey, 60 percent of contractors said they are extremely or very concerned about the effectiveness of counterfeit products and their ability to meet codes. At the same time, 43 percent said they are unsure if they have encountered counterfeit electrical goods over the past year. An additional 33 percent reported having never encountered counterfeits. In addition to safety concerns, accidentally installed counterfeit parts that fail have to be fixed, resulting in time and money. Various media sources attribute the worsening problem to the low cost of manufacturing electronics in China and the greater ease in selling both genuine and counterfeit parts through Internet product search engines.

Almost half of electrical contractors (46 percent) working on projects in 2007 included green/sustainable building elements. Thirty percent worked in one or more of these areas: LEED projects, solar photovoltaics, wind generation, net metering and/or co-generation. Energy use, green/sustainable building and LEED certification were mentioned by 30 percent of those who plan to take training in the next 12 months.

In 2007, approximately 80 percent of firms surveyed performed some design/build or design/assist work. Less than half of their average revenue comes from traditional bid/build projects (46 percent) and about seven percent comes from other bidding methods. Overall, contractors are able to make brand substitutions about 70 percent of the time. Availability (70 percent) and price (65 percent) as the top reported reasons for original brand selection.

Although most electrical contractors' work comes from commercial/industrial/institutional work (CII), single-family housing accounts for the largest, single source of revenue. Similar to 2006, 96 percent of electrical contractors surveyed said they performed traditional power/lighting work in the previous year. Two-thirds reported working on power quality, communications/systems connectivity and automation controls. About 60 percent worked in residential automation/controls, and about 30 percent worked in alternative energy/sustainable building technology. Electrical/power distribution continues to account for the largest percentage of company sales at 64 percent.

View the complete story online here

Managed by GE Money's Sales Finance unit, the program includes two financing options: GE Money's PROJECTLINE PLUS program, which provides revolving credit terms; and the PROJECTLOAN program, which offers homeowners an installment loan financing option. Both options will be offered by participating contractors that have earned CertainTeed Roofing and Siding product knowledge and installation credentials.

"Our products help turn a house into a home," said Eric Nilsson, vice president of Corporate Marketing for CertainTeed. "The addition of this program helps ease the financing process for consumers as they make improvements to their homes."

"Through this partnership, CertainTeed's Roofing and Siding credentialed contractors have a new tool that helps them fully serve their customers by offering the installation of quality building products as well as turnkey financing options," said Jay Butch, senior marketing manager for CertainTeed Roofing. "The simple application process can be completed over the phone during the sales call or at the homeowners' convenience.  Contractors and their customers have been asking for such a program, and as a leading provider of retail credit services to consumers, GE Money was a clear choice to provide fast, no-hassle financing."

The company closed 6,167 homes during the quarter, compared to 9,643 homes a year earlier.

Donald R. Horton, Chairman of the Board, said, "Although market conditions in the homebuilding industry remain challenging, we continue to focus on reducing our inventory and generating cash flow from operations. We generated approximately $390 million of cash flow from operations this quarter, bringing the year-to-date total to $1.4 billion and increasing our homebuilding cash balance to $819 million. We also maintained our focus on controlling our costs, reducing our homebuilding SG&A expenses by approximately $73 million in our quarter ended June 30, 2008, compared to the year ago quarter."

"In this challenging environment, we continue to focus on controlling expenses, improving operating efficiencies, reducing inventories, generating cash, and gaining market share," said Jon Vrabely, President and CEO. "Overall, we are pleased with our progress, but recognize there is more to be done."

The partnership enables home builders to use Be Home Wise's award-winning lead tracking, prospect management, e-marketing and data reporting system with Builder's CoPilot – an enterprise-wide CRM software program developed by iConnect and Greg Benson, president of Comstock Homes. Together, Be Home Wise and Builder's CoPilot provide a fully integrated solution that manages information throughout the entire home-building process.

"This partnership provides a 'best of breed' business solution in the home-building market at a very low cost," said iConnect President and Chief Information Officer Amitesh Sinha. "It delivers a builder-centric data processing platform and a widely used sales and lead tracking system."

"This allows our customers to take advantage of the expertise of Be Home Wise and the strength of Builder's CoPilot," said Be Home Wise Chief Executive Officer Robb Cohen. "They get the unbeatable combination of a powerful front-end lead tracking, prospect management system and a complete back-end CRM package."

The partnership gives customers an efficient, streamlined approach to business. Builders benefit from information that flows seamlessly from Be Home Wise's advanced prospect and buyer tracking system into a completely integrated single platform with real time information – Builder's Copilot. The prospect data from Be Home Wise is accessible in Builder's CoPilot to write contracts in sales, reflect costs entered in production, manage construction schedules, service items under warranty, generate real-time reports and analyze accounting details.

Be Home Wise also has an innovative e-leads application that not only captures and manages Web leads, it instantly rates, ranks and qualifies each lead. This application, which features automatic lead follow-ups, is becoming increasingly important as more and more prospects begin their search for a new home on the Internet. This data is seamlessly married to the Builder's CoPilot sales module for effective data processing.

Builder's CoPilot came into existence in 2003 and was developed by Sinha and Benson, whose company builds homes in Washington, Atlanta, and Raleigh, N.C. Benson and Sinha worked together to design a software package that manages issues faced by builders on a daily basis.

"The market is flooded with software programs that address scheduling, procurement, supply chain management, and so on," Benson said. "But, until we created Builder's CoPilot, nothing tied it all together. Instead of buying parts and pieces, we built a fully integrated information management system that brings all of the data into one module."

For more information about Builder's CoPilot, visit www.builderscopilot.com. For more information about Be Home Wise, visit behomewise.com or call (703) 734-2224.

Roofing-Directory enables visitors to request free estimates from local commercial and residential metal roofing repair, replacement, installation and inspection contractors in their area.

If you are considering either a commercial or residential project that requires a metal roof, you might want to take a look at this ever-expanding directory.

"Considering the exponential increases in energy costs, the new utility allowance regulation will allow builders to more accurately calculate the energy usage for their buildings, therefore reducing long-term operating costs," said Justin MacDonald, a LIHTC developer in Kerrville, Texas, and chairman of NAHB's Housing Credit Group, which had been leading the charge for the new regulations for the past several years.

With LIHTC properties already under pressure from the current woes in the housing and capital markets, the future of new and existing LIHTC-financed affordable housing was being seriously threatened by the previous regulation. LIHTC owners must make "allowances" for utilities by deducting them from gross rents. The previous method of calculating the allowances often was based on averages, which included older, less efficient properties or did not take into account the cost differences between more urban sectors versus the more rural ones. According to MacDonald, owners were often forced to allow a greater amount for the utility allowance than the actual expense.

As a result, there were properties whose owners and managers could not keep the correct portion of the rent charged, and were nearly at the point of having to run at a loss - a situation that eventually would have closed communities, forcing residents to scramble for alternative housing.

NAHB led a coalition effort to modify the IRS regulations to allow owners to use alternative methods to compute the utility allowances for their properties so that they more closely reflected actual expenses.

The Low Income Housing Tax Credit program is the primary vehicle for financing construction of affordable rental apartments and is credited with creating more than one million affordable housing units since it was enacted by Congress in 1986.

For the complete IRS announcement on the updated regulation, click here

The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), the largest tile contractors association in the world, is opening the doors of the 2008 Total Solutions Business and Technical Conference to the architect and design community with continuing education credits for all A&D attendees. The 2008 Total Solutions Conference will be held at the fabulous Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center on the Potomac River on September 18-20, 2008.

More than 400 contractors, distributors, dealers and manufacturers from across the country already attend the two full-days of education and informational conferences and seminars. The NTCA is now expanding its focus to invite members of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the National Association of Remodeling Industry (NARI), the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) for inclusion in the world-class event, as well as all other professionals in the A&D community.

Registration is free and the A&D community is invited to attend the annual Table Top Event, which will feature more than 40 displays and various door prizes awarded every hour. Cocktails and hors d'oeurves will be available.

For more information, please contact NTCA membership director Bob Brown at bob@tile-assn.com or visit tile-assn.com/events/total_solutions/

The drywall scraps used in recycling are gathered from new construction projects. USA Gypsum offers a variety of convenient collection methods. Businesses can cut down on disposal costs while helping the environment by preventing scraps from reaching landfills. USA Gypsum offers on site roll-off container service for the customer's convenience. USA Gypsum complies with LEED (The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green building rating reporting system.

For more information and to order online visit www.usagypsum.com

This year's show will have an emphasis on Sensible Green construction. It's your opportunity to learn how green building can help you grow your business. In addition the show will feature great exhibitors and other seminars to help you gain an advantage in today's challenging market.

Learn more at: www.nysba.com/NYSBS.htm

Some of the features include the ability to drag and drop parts and assemblies directly onto digitizer items, adding metric units, the addition of a color legend on the screen, plus a Plug-in manager for third party plug-ins and additional supported file types. Along with a free one-hour training session with a professional estimator, the company has added more tutorial videos to give customers more support for product knowledge.

In addition, James Purpura, the VP of Tech Unlimited, Inc., says, "We now offer a Plugin Manager where users can add third-party plugins to our software. We also allow a lot more file compatibilities which allow other types of files to be attached to PlanSwift jobs. This includes attaching files such as PDFs and e-mails to a PlanSwift job and breaking up jobs and files to send as e-mail."

Purpura also mentioned other key features such as finding all documentation in a new searchable database and a tested improvement on program speed.

PlanSwift also encourages developers to write their own plugins for other PlanSwift users. In the Developers Corner, developers can meet in a forum and also find PlanSwift documentation in a Knowledge Base.

To join PlanSwift's beta tester program, go to www.planswift.com/beta. PlanSwift also offers a free 14-day software trial to new users with one hour of training included. The software can be downloaded at http://www.planswift.com/requesttrial

Schoeneberger is charged with the planning, development, implementation and measurement of all QCCI marketing strategies and communications for the firm's two product lines, and coordination of the firm's dealer network programs. Since 1968 QCCI has produced Quality Custom Cabinetry™, an exclusive all-wood line targeted to high-end renovation and new construction throughout the U.S. Two years ago, after a rigorous pilot program and development of a second manufacturing facility to accommodate the needs of Euro-style full-access construction, QCCI launched the Saxton(R) cabinetry line to complement its existing lines.

Prior to joining QCCI, Schoeneberger served seven years as Director of Market Development for Superior Walls of America, Ltd., a national franchise operation based in New Holland (PA) that provides custom-designed and engineered foundations for new home construction.  He also worked six years as International Marketing Manager at Clean Burn, Inc., Leola, PA, and was instrumental in the start-up of Peddler's Home Design, LLC, Honeybrook, PA.

Professionally he is an active member of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), serving on the Concrete Home Building Council since 2005 and previously serving on the association's Steering Committee and Radio and Print Material Task Force Sub-Committee Elected; the National Council of the Housing Industry (NCHI Supplier 100) since 2002; the Precast Concrete Institute Sustainability Committee since 2007, and the American Marketing Association since 2001. In addition, he was a member of the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce International Commerce Committee, and the Committee on Used Oil Fire Burners (OFC-9, United Kingdom).

A graduate of Slippery Rock (PA) University with a B.S.B.A. in Marketing, Schoeneberger also completed courses in public speaking with Dale Carnegie and studied Cross Cultural Training and Scholarship with the Japanese External Trade Organization (JETRO).

QCCI, named a "Best Place to Work In PA" for the fifth consecutive year (6th place ranking in companies with over 250 employees), maintains corporate headquarters at 125 Peters Road, New Holland, PA.

Visit them online at: www.qcc.com

For more details, view the event flier HERE or call 949.224.0321.

Watch a timelapse movie of the new bridge construction here

Watch an animated "fly over" of the bridge here

Wilsonart Duracryl sink products are widely used in both residential and commercial environments. They can be undermounted to laminate and hard surface countertops, food service areas, vanities and related structures in the convenience/retail, education, hospitality, healthcare and military industries. Architects, interior designers, building professionals and homeowners are now assured that Wilsonart products have passed rigorous third-party testing to verify conformance with stringent low-emissions standards.

"Wilsonart offers quality sink products that are beautiful, durable and easy to care for. Adding GREENGUARD certification to Duracryl validates our commitment to the total user experience which includes promoting healthy indoor air," said Richard Conde, Sink Product Manager, Wilsonart Solid Surface.

For more information, please call 1.800.433.3222 or visit wilsonartsolidsurface.com

NAHB will host a media teleconference on August 4, to explain the provisions of the new housing legislation and how it benefits consumers and the housing industry.

NAHB President Sandy Dunn will open the call with an overview of the legislation. NAHB economist and tax expert Rob Dietz will explain details on how the tax credit works. Illinois builder Ed Brady will discuss how the legislation will help first-time home buyers, and Pulte Homes President and CEO Richard Dugas will offer a high production builder's perspective on the benefits of the credit.

NAHB will also highlight its newly launched consumer Web site www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com that includes details and a set of comprehensive questions and answers about how the credit works and how consumers can take advantage of it.

Members of the media will be given the opportunity to ask questions at the conclusion of the call.

DATE: Monday, Aug. 4, 2008

TIME: 2:00 p.m. EST

WHO: