By: Phil Crone
HBA of Greater Dallas
Green Vine News Column, October 2009Green Built Texas is looking to end the year on a high note similar to the one we started on. Recall back in January, more than 700 industry professionals attended the Texas Green Home Seminar. The event was successful enough that it will now become an annual tradition.
With your help, the program endeavors to pull together yet another ambitious event that we are calling Project Zero. Project Zero is a two day training opportunity for home building industry professionals to learn both basic and advanced building science principles through classroom instruction along with onsite demonstrations at a net zero energy home in Lewisville November 18-19. The TimberCreek Zero Energy Home being built by GBT Co-Chairman Chris Miles will be one of the first in the state to reach net zero status by generating more electricity on site than it uses.
On Wednesday, November 18, attendees will be treated to a full-day building science training seminar conducted by nationally renowned expert, Justin Wilson. Justin is part of the brain trust that put the very successful Built Green Colorado® program together. His seminar will cover many aspects of building science; including designing and constructing buildings which systematically incorporate framing, insulating and air sealing techniques to effectively manage heat, air, and moisture flows. All this is accomplished by minimizing lumber and material uses and impacts, while increasing energy efficiency and building durability.
Day two (November 19) will feature on-site demonstrations at the TimberCreek Home. I know what you are thinking; this is just another science fair project on a slab, isn’t it? Well, I do not expect everyone to run out and build similar projects. That is currently not an economical proposition. However, I guarantee that you will learn a number of practical things when you visit the site that will help you enhance the performance of any home you build.
Perhaps the best thing about the two days of Project Zero is the value. Fifty dollars, yes, only $50, gets you a two day pass to attend all of the aforementioned events. With breakfast and lunch provided on Wednesday and Texas BBQ on Thursday, you would be getting a bargain just on the food alone.
Registration and additional event information is available online at GreenBuiltTexas.com/ProjectZero.
Thank You Beth Johnson: A True Pioneer among Realtors
With the changing of the guard on the Green Built Texas board, we lose a true visionary in her field and for our program in Beth Johnson of Advocates Realty. Beth, Texas’s first certified Eco-Broker, is stepping down after being with the program from its beginning nearly four years ago.
We are grateful for and have benefitted greatly from Beth’s knowledge, enthusiasm, and networking skills. A LEED AP, NAHB CGP, and self-described building science addict, Beth’s steadfast attendance and support, her active and thoughtful participation, and a dedication to improving and growing GBT helped the program become what it is today.
A native North Texan, Beth specializes in assisting homeowners in obtaining resources they need to buy, build, sell, or upgrade their green homes. She has also been an outstanding asset to builders and developers by marketing the green features of their homes and attracting buyers. Her leadership and unique perspectives will certainly be missed.
