Media Room - Press Releases

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) Presents "Iowa at Night" Workshop for Free in Fairfield on Oct. 5

COSC RDG Planning & Design, winners of six lighting design awards in 2010, teaches this community lighting session.

West Des Moines, IA (August 18, 2010) – Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) is bringing “Iowa at Night – Lighting for a Sustainable Community’s Future” workshop to Fairfield on Oct. 5th for free. The West Des Moines-based non-profit facilitates cutting edge sustainable building workshops throughout the state and has recruited local lighting experts RDG Planning & Design to teach this valuable commercial exterior lighting workshop. RDG Planning & Design received six lighting design awards presented by the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) in 2010.

Professionals from all sectors of the commercial building industry, as well as community leaders, are encouraged to attend “Iowa at Night – Lighting for a Sustainable Community’s Future.” It takes place at the Cambridge Meeting Room in the Fairfield Arts and Convention Center located at 200 North Main Street in Fairfield from 9:00am to 1:00pm on Tuesday, October 5. Check-in begins at 8:30am. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Those interested in attending are required to register by contacting Leslie Berckes at 515-707-2787 or Leslie@icosc.com.

Free and open to the public, the workshop addresses factors such as foot-candles, watts per square foot, quality of light, safety and visibility that tend to come in conflict when designing exterior lighting systems. During “Iowa at Night – Lighting for a Sustainable Community’s Future,” RDG Planning & Design will illustrate ways to integrate these various elements to produce sustainable and aesthetically pleasing lighting design solutions. Participants will review several hands-on activities, explore case study examples and complete the LEED template for Sustainable Sites Credit 8 for light pollution reduction.

COSC is Iowa’s trusted educational resource for sustainable building and presents this workshop in its continued effort to advance the state’s green building practices. By leading a collaborative effort with local experts to teach best practices and national standards, COSC’s educational programming illustrates that the benefits of sustainable building are abundant and attainable. “Iowa at Night – Lighting for a Sustainable Community’s Future,” is an extension of COSC’s Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program. COSC is able to temporarily offer its Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa sessions for free through funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. More details on this session are available at visit www.icosc.com.

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) is a non-profit membership organization founded in 2005 that serves as Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in a better quality of life for all Iowans. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific workshops can be found at www.icosc.com.

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Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) Named USGBC Education Provider

COSC presents first approved course free-of-charge during its "Day of Sustainability" in West Des Moines on Oct. 6

West Des Moines, IA (August 17, 2010) – Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) has recently been named a U. S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Education Provider and now offers courses approved for credit toward Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Credential Maintenance Program. The designation supports COSC’s ongoing commitment of providing professionals with high-quality, advanced green building education needed to stay competitive in the marketplace.

The first of several COSC workshops to be approved for the Green Building Certification Institute Continuing Education (GBCI CE) credit hours is “The Fundamentals of Green Roofs in an Urban Environment." The workshop offers 3 GBCI CE Hours and will take place during COSC’s “Day of Sustainability” at West Des Moines City Hall on Wednesday, Oct. 6th. Offered free-of-charge, the seminar begins at 9:00am with “Integrating Sustainable Storm Water Management Systems,” which explores the impacts of a rainstorm’s “first flush” and teaches techniques for reducing runoff and improving water quality. Then, after a networking lunch, “The Fundamentals of Green Roofs in an Urban Environment” reviews case studies and the substantial sustainable benefits of green roof designs. Those interested in attending are required to register and should contact COSC’s Leslie Berckes at 515-707-2787 or Leslie@icosc.com.

COSC leads a collaborative effort with local experts to teach best practices and, for its “Day of Sustainability,” recruited respected instructors from RDG Planning & Design and Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. In its continued effort to advance the state’s green building practices, COSC is offering this seminar in support of the City of West Des Moines’ sustainability initiatives. The courses will appeal to not only building professionals, but also homeowners and others eager to learn about the benefits of sustainable building that are abundant and attainable.

The Oct. 6th sessions are an extension of COSC’s Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program. COSC is able to temporarily offer its Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa sessions for free through funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) is a non-profit membership organization founded in 2005 that serves as Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in a better quality of life for all Iowans. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific workshops can be found at www.icosc.com.

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Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

"COSC connects" Addresses Envisioning Sustainable Des Moines on Aug. 30

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) partners with Urban Ambassadors and U.S. Green Building Council’s Iowa Chapter to raise awareness of sustainable resources in the Metro area.

West Des Moines, IA (August 6, 2010) – Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) is partnering with Urban Ambassadors and U.S. Green Building Council’s Iowa Chapter for the after-work networking social event “COSC connects” happening Monday, August 30th from 5:00-7:00pm at Jasper Winery. In a unified effort to raise awareness of quality sustainable resources available in the Metro area, the three non-profits have invited Greater Des Moines Partnership to present on the evening’s topic of “Envisioning Sustainable Des Moines” with a focus on building and transportation. Attendees will have the opportunity to network, give their input on how to improve sustainability in Central Iowa, and learn about each organization’s unique role in the community.

La Mie Bakery is helping sponsor the event and is providing complimentary appetizers. Guests will also enjoy live music by Brian Joens, prize drawings, and a cash bar featuring Jasper Winery wines and regional beers.

“COSC connects” brings together young professionals, architects, designers, realtors, entrepreneurs and others interested in getting inspired and gaining awareness about the possibilities of achieving greater sustainability in Iowa. All ages are invited. RSVP for free admission to “COSC connects” on August 30th by contacting Carrie Boyle at 515-707-2784 or Carrie@icosc.com.

About Urban Ambassadors

Urban Ambassadors is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization creating your hub for sustainable living in Greater Des Moines. Helping clarify your sustainability goals through 7 lifestyle targets; connect with the local community and resources you need to meet your goals; and design local projects that grow the sustainability community in order to build a healthier planet. More information is available at urbanambassadors.org.

About U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) – Iowa Chapter

The U.S. Green Building Council - Iowa Chapter brings together a diverse community of professionals to support the organization’s focus of promoting and enabling the integration of sustainable practices into Iowa’s built environment. As a membership-based nonprofit, the Iowa Chapter continuously strives to increase the pace of change for achieving sustainability through its programs and guiding principles. More information is available at usgbciowa.org.

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) is Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in higher standards of living. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific programming can be found at icosc.com.

Media Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

Open House Events Scheduled to Celebrate Completion of Affordable Green Demonstration Homes in West Union and West Des Moines

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) and project partners commemorate these significant community-supported sustainable homes with open house events in June

West Des Moines, IA (June 3, 2010) – Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) is pleased to announce the completion of Affordable Green Demonstration Homes in West Des Moines and West Union. COSC and accompanying project partners will be celebrating with upcoming public open house events at each location. The two new home construction projects provided venues for important on-site training components in COSC’s Affordable Green Building Training programs. The workshop series’ in West Union and West Des Moines instructed homeowners and professionals on essential sustainable techniques for building an affordable, energy efficient, durable and environmentally sound home.

West Union

COSC will host two public open house events at the West Union Affordable Green Demonstration Home located at 410 South Pine Street in West Union, Iowa. All are welcome to tour the home from 4:00 - 7:00pm Friday, June 11th and from 9:00am - 12:00pm on Saturday, June 12th. The open houses present an opportunity to witness the progression of sustainable building efforts in northeast Iowa. Experts involved in the home’s construction and planning process will be on hand to discuss green building techniques homeowners can integrate into new home construction plans and remodeling projects.

In partnership with the City of West Union, Main Street West Union, Fayette County Economic Development, and the Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation, COSC delivered its Affordable Green Building Training: West Union workshop series in support of northeast Iowa’s disaster recovery efforts and Main Street West Union’s Green Pilot Community initiatives. Designated a Green Pilot Community by Iowa Department of Economic Development, the West Union pilot project creates best practices and allows the city to serve as a model for other communities to become more environmentally friendly. While the Green Pilot Community efforts focus on the Main Street District and West Union’s infrastructure, COSC’s Affordable Green Building Training: West Union enabled the community to diversify the benefits of its sustainability efforts by addressing the residential sector.

West Des Moines

The City of West Des Moines, HOME Inc. and COSC are celebrating the completion of the West Des Moines Affordable Green Demonstration Home located at 927 Maple Street in Historic Valley Junction. A VIP open house event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 15th from 4:00 - 6:30pm that includes a ribbon cutting ceremony with City of West Des Moines Mayor Steven Gaer at 5:30pm.

"The affordable green home is a highly collaborative project that serves a unique purpose in West Des Moines and the surrounding area," Mayor Gaer stated about the project. "As we encourage sustainable living options in our city and in surrounding communities, it is important that we not just make recommendations regarding sustainable alternatives but show how different sustainable concepts can work."

A public open house event is Thursday, June 17th from 4:00 - 8:00pm, when all are welcome to tour the home and learn the many sustainable aspects of this community-supported new construction home.

The main objective for the West Des Moines Affordable Green Demonstration Home and COSC’s accompanying Affordable Green Building Training sessions for professionals and homeowners was to provide easy access to and participation in the construction of an affordable and practical new green home. The home was built in a low- to moderate-income neighborhood, illustrating that green can be attainable and affordable for residents within our community who can least afford high energy bills and medical bills. Affordable green options have been the focus of the planning, design and construction processes.

Funding for the West Des Moines Affordable Green Demonstration Home was provided by the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Department of Natural Resources, Meredith Corporation, Gilcrest/Jewett Lumber Company, Windsor Windows & Doors, Principal Financial Group Foundation, Inc., MidAmerican Energy Company, Polk County Housing Trust Fund, Metro Waste Authority and Artistic Waste Services, Inc.

About Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa

COSC’s Affordable Green Building Training program is an extension of its Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program – a curriculum created to help Iowa re-build sustainably in its disaster recovery efforts. By leading a collaborative effort with local experts to teach best practices, COSC’s educational programming illustrates that the benefits of sustainable building are abundant and attainable. COSC is able to temporarily offer its Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa sessions for free through funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) was established in 2005 as a nonprofit to serve as Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in higher standards of living. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific programming can be found at www.icosc.com.

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Media Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

"COSC connects" Launch Party at the Des Moines Social Club on June 7th

Center on Sustainable Communities’ inaugural quarterly social gathering will feature Green Living Project's only Iowa stop on its national mobile tour!

West Des Moines, IA (May 24, 2010) – Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) launches a quarterly social gathering titled “COSC connects” at 5:00pm on Monday, June 7th, at the Des Moines Social Club. To help kick off the evening of engaging sustainable networking and social fun, COSC is pleased to feature Green Living Project’s only Iowa stop on its national multimedia mobile tour that is chock full of illuminating environmentally focused concepts.

Green Living Project is a media production company focused on documenting, promoting and supporting successful and unique models of sustainability from around the world. Green Living Project Mobile Tour: Expedition in Central America presentation showcases cutting-edge global sustainability projects of charismatic and hardworking individuals and communities in Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Panama – from Costa Rica's well established leadership in responsible and sustainable tourism, to Nicaragua's wonderful colonial history and rich rural community life, and onward to Panama's undiscovered and unspoiled archipelago islands and indigenous communities. Each mobile tour event features giveaways from Green Living Project sponsors, which include National Geographic, Gregory, KEEN and REI.

“COSC connects” brings together young professionals, architects, designers, realtors, entrepreneurs and others interested in getting inspired and gaining awareness about the possibilities of achieving greater sustainability in Iowa. Attendees will enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and an affordable cash bar. All are invited to RSVP for free admission by contacting Carrie Boyle at 515-707-2784 or Carrie@icosc.com.

About Green Living Project

Green Living ProjectTM (GLP) is the leading media production and marketing company showcasing global sustainability initiatives. Through various multi-media production and distribution techniques, GLP aims to educate, inspire and entertain while encouraging individuals and communities on the importance and benefits of sustainable living. GLP markets and promotes its exclusive media content online and through various event-marketing channels. Key partners and sponsors include National Geographic Adventure, Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI), African Wildlife Foundation, Earthwatch Institute, Green Festival, Timberland, and Keen Footwear. Green Living ProjectTM is a privately held company located outside of Los Angeles, California. For more information, please visit www.greenlivingproject.com.

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) was established in 2005 as a nonprofit to serve as Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in higher standards of living. Responding to the state’s disaster recovery efforts, Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa is COSC’s statewide training program supporting Iowa’s ability to rebuild homes and businesses that are energy-efficient, affordable, durable, healthy and environmentally sound. Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa’s free programming is made possible through funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific programming can be found at www.icosc.com.

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Media Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

COSC Reveals Guidelines for Selecting a Green Building Contractor

On May 27th in Hiawatha, Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) presents a free evening session on how to find the right contractor for new construction and remodeling projects.

West Des Moines, IA (May 12, 2010) –Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) presents an engaging free session of insightful guidelines and specific tips for determining the right sustainable contractor for new construction or remodeling projects. As more professionals continue to enter the green building marketplace, experts Bill McAnally and Linda Schemmel teach key questions to ask a potential contractor, how to gauge levels of expertise, which skills are a priority for the job and reveal resources that can help ensure a project's success. “How to Choose a Contractor” takes place Thursday, May 27th, from 6:00-7:30pm at the Hiawatha Public Library located at 150 West Wilman Street in Hiawatha, Iowa.

As COSC continues its mission to empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions, “How to Choose a Contractor” addresses an important aspect of achieving sustainable built environments that are energy efficient, affordable, healthy and durable. COSC educational programming not only makes a measurable positive impact on the demand for sustainable building practices, but also on the integrity of products and services available. Homeowners, architects, designers, realtors, lenders, appraisers, contractors and others will appreciate this free! evening session of expert guidance. Registration is required. Those interested in attending should contact Leslie Berckes at 515-707-2787 or Leslie@icosc.com.

“How to Choose a Contractor” is an extension of COSC’s Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program. COSC is able to temporarily offer its Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa sessions for free through funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) was established in 2005 as a nonprofit to serve as Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in higher standards of living. Responding to the state’s disaster recovery efforts, Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa is COSC’s statewide training program supporting Iowa’s ability to rebuild durable, affordable, healthy and energy-efficient built environments. Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa’s free programming is made possible through funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific programming can be found at www.icosc.com.

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Media Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) Brings its 'Day of Sustainability' Workshops to Davenport on Tuesday, May 4th

For free, green building experts teach about green roofs and sustainable storm water management techniques.

West Des Moines, IA (April 21, 2010) – Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) presents two green building workshops free-of-charge as part of its "Day of Sustainability" in Davenport on Tuesday, May 4th. Homeowners, engineers, architects, contractors, realtors, municipal staff and others will benefit from expert insight on the value of incorporating green roofs and sustainable storm water practices into a community's built environments. Beginning at 9:00am, "Integrating Sustainable Storm Water Management Systems" explores the impacts of a rainstorm's "first flush" and teaches techniques for reducing runoff and improving water quality. From 1:00pm to 4:00pm "Green Roofs in an Urban Environment" reviews case studies and the substantial sustainable benefits of green roof designs. An accompanying free networking luncheon begins at noon.

COSC's "Day of Sustainability" takes place at the Davenport Police Facility at 416 North Harrison Street in Davenport, Iowa. The facility, designed by Neumann Monson Architects, was awarded a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certification in 2009. Workshop attendees will have an opportunity to tour the building's green roof. Those interested in attending are asked to register by contacting Leslie Berckes at 515-707-2787 or Leslie@icosc.com.

In its continued effort to advance the state's green building practices, COSC is offering this quality educational programming in support of Davenport's community sustainability initiatives. COSC leads a collaborative effort with local experts to teach best practices and, for its "Day of Sustainability," recruited respected instructors from RDG Planning & Design and Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. The May 4th sessions are an extension of COSC's Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program. COSC is able to temporarily offer its Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa sessions for free through funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) was established in 2005 as a nonprofit to serve as Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in higher standards of living. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific programming can be found at www.icosc.com and www.facebook.com/icosc.

Media Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

Old Windows Aren't a Pane - They're Green!

On May 8th, Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) presents free green building seminars in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids featuring nationally recognized home and window restoration expert Bob Yapp.

West Des Moines, IA (April 9, 2010) –Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) brings window preservation expert Bob Yapp to Iowa for engaging training opportunities on May 8th in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids. Yapp’s “Old Windows Aren’t a Pane – They’re Green!” seminar teaches cost effective and energy efficient historic restoration methods for original, double-hung, wood windows. The first of two presentations of the seminar takes place Saturday, May 8th at 9:00am at the Carl & Mary Koehler History Center located at 615 First Avenue SE in Cedar Rapids. The second begins at 1:30pm the same day at the Iowa City Public Library located at 123 South Linn Street in Iowa City.

Bob Yapp is nationally recognized as one of the top experts in window restoration and has restored over 6,000 windows in his 36-year career. Yapp wrote a weekly column titled “The House Doctor” for the Des Moines Register in the 1980s and contributed to Meredith Publishing’s Wood Magazine and Renovation Style Magazine before producing the national PBS program “About Your House with Bob Yapp.” Currently, Yapp co-hosts “About Your House with Bob & Pat Yapp” on NPR affiliate station WQUB in Quincy, Illinois and is dedicated to preservation education. His 1859 home in Hannibal, Missouri is headquarters for Yapp’s school The Belvedere School for Hands-On Preservation and he helped found the Preservation Trades Program for at-risk students at Hannibal High School.

Whether a contractor, homeowner or preservation professional, attendees of “Old Windows Aren’t a Pane – They’re Green!” will benefit from Yapp’s knowledge of safe lead paint and glass removal, epoxy wood repair, glazing putty application, weather stripping and sash installation. “As a sustainable alternative to replacing windows, Yapp will demonstrate that it’s easy to disassemble, seal gaps and improve the performance of an existing window,” explains Alicia Trimble, president of Friends of Historic Preservation.

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) was established in 2005 as a nonprofit to serve as Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in higher standards of living. Responding to the state’s disaster recovery efforts, Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa is COSC’s statewide training program supporting Iowa’s ability to rebuild durable, affordable, healthy and energy-efficient built environments. Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa’s free programming is made possible through funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific programming can be found atwww.icosc.com and www.facebook.com/icosc.

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Media Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) Presents Residential Heating & Cooling Workshop in Sioux City on April 21

This free session offers homeowners, realtors, municipal staff, appraisers and others valuable insight for improving a home’s energy efficiency, indoor air quality, comfort and cost-effectiveness.

West Des Moines, IA (March 31, 2010) –Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) presents “Consumer Introduction to Quality Heating & Cooling Installation” in Sioux City on April 21st for free. The workshop offers homeowners, realtors, municipal staff, lenders, appraisers and others instructive ways to attain measurable improvements in a home’s energy efficiency, indoor air quality, comfort and cost-effectiveness. COSC facilitates cutting edge sustainable building workshops throughout the state and has recruited energy expert Cenergy to lead the evening session. It takes place at the Home Builders Association of Siouxland at 3900 Stadium Drive in Sioux City, Iowa, from 6:00pm to 7:30 on Wednesday, April 21. Check-in begins at 5:30pm and refreshments will be provided. Those interested in attending are asked to register by contacting Leslie Berckes at 515-707-2787 or Leslie@icosc.com.

Free and open to the public, the workshop addresses the importance of ensuring a home’s heating and cooling system is functioning at peak performance. Common installation problems can greatly compromise the energy efficiency promised with heating or cooling units. Quality installation of a furnace or air conditioner is critical for obtaining the benefits of decreased energy costs and improved comfort throughout the home. Individuals interested in taking advantage of the many rebate options available through the federal government and utility companies should plan on attending to make informed purchasing decisions. A list of qualified heating and cooling contractors will be provided to workshop attendees.

COSC is Iowa’s trusted educational resource for sustainable building and presents this workshop in its continued effort to advance the state’s green building practices. By leading a collaborative effort with local experts to teach best practices, COSC’s educational programming illustrates that the benefits of sustainable building are abundant and attainable.“Consumer Introduction to Quality Heating & Cooling Installation,” is an extension of COSC’s Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program. COSC is able to temporarily offer its Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa sessions for free through funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. More details on this session are available at visit www.icosc.com.

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) was established in 2005 as a nonprofit to serve as Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in higher standards of living. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific programming can be found at www.icosc.com and www.facebook.com/icosc.

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Media Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) Presents Commercial Exterior Lighting Workshop in Cedar Rapids April 8

Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building offers its programs for Free for a limited time only.

West Des Moines, IA (March 30, 2010) –Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) presents a valuable commercial exterior lighting workshop in Cedar Rapids on April 8th for free. The West Des Moines-based non-profit facilitates cutting edge sustainable building workshops throughout the state and has recruited local lighting experts RDG Planning & Design to teach “Beyond Foot-Candles: Balancing Aesthetic and Technical Elements in Sustainable Exterior Lighting Design.” Professionals from all sectors of the commercial building industry, as well as community leaders, are encouraged to attend this session. It takes place at Alliant Energy’s office at 200 First Street SE in Cedar Rapids from 9:00am to 1:00pm on Thursday, April 8. Check-in begins at 8:30am and lunch will be provided. Those interested in attending in person, or remotely via WebEx, are asked to register by contacting Leslie Berckes at 515-707-2787 or Leslie@icosc.com.

Free and open to the public, the workshop addresses factors such as foot-candles, watts per square foot, quality of light, safety and visibility that tend to come in conflict when designing exterior lighting systems. During “Beyond Foot-Candles: Balancing Aesthetic and Technical Elements in Sustainable Exterior Lighting Design,” RDG Planning & Design will illustrate ways to integrate these various elements to produce a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing lighting design solution. Participants will review several hands-on activities, explore case study examples and complete the LEED template for Sustainable Sites Credit 8 for light pollution reduction.

COSC is Iowa’s trusted educational resource for sustainable building and presents this workshop in its continued effort to advance the state’s green building practices. By leading a collaborative effort with local experts to teach best practices, COSC’s educational programming illustrates that the benefits of sustainable building are abundant and attainable. “Beyond Foot-Candles: Balancing Aesthetic and Technical Elements in Sustainable Exterior Lighting Design,” is an extension of COSC’s Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program. COSC is able to temporarily offer its Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa sessions for free through funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. More details on this session are available at visit www.icosc.com.

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) was established in 2005 as a nonprofit to serve as Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in higher standards of living. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific programming can be found at www.icosc.com and www.facebook.com/icosc.

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Media Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) Presents Five Green Building Workshops for Free at Natural Living Expo March 27 & 28

The "Green Speaker Series" features sustainable building expert sessions and an Iowa college panel forum.

West Des Moines, IA (March 17, 2010) – Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) will host five sustainable building sessions as part of its “Green Speaker Series” at the Natural Living Expo on March 27th and 28th at the Polk County Convention Complex in Downtown Des Moines. Free and open to the public, the workshops offer access to insight and advice from local building, energy and interiors experts. Topics include improving home maintenance projects, choosing the right contractor, assessing an existing home’s green potential and maximizing the performance of heating and cooling systems. In an accompanying panel discussion, “Sustainability at Iowa Campuses and Beyond,” COSC’s Executive Director Lynnae Hentzen invites students and campus sustainability directors to examine how Iowa can support their efforts beyond the academic experience.

COSC is Iowa’s trusted educational resource for sustainable building and presents these workshops in its continued effort to advance the state’s building practices. By leading a collaborative effort with local experts to teach best practices, COSC’s educational programming illustrates that the benefits of sustainable building are abundant and attainable. The “Green Speaker Series” is an extension of COSC’s Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program. COSC is able to temporarily offer its Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa sessions for free through funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

COSC’s “Green Speaker Series” schedule:

 

Maintenance for a Healthy Home

Saturday, March 27 at 11:00am

Green building expert Jacob Kvinlaug of Jacob Kvinlaug Design & Construction teaches sustainable approaches to home maintenance projects that can lead to a more affordable and healthier living environment.

 

Consumer Intro to Quality Heating & Cooling Installation

Saturday, March 27 at 1:00pm

Cenergy is the leading energy expert in the state and conducts this informative workshop on how to save money, maintain efficient heating, cooling and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, improve indoor air quality and make informed decisions when installing a new system.

 

How to Choose a Contractor

Saturday, March 27 at 3:00pm

Learn how to ask key questions, gauge expertise and find resources to help determine the right sustainable building contractor for your project. This session is led by green building expert Jacob Kvinlaug of Jacob Kvinlaug Design & Construction and Linda Schemmel, architect and member of COSC’s Builder Advisory Council

 

Existing Home Assessment: Prioritizing Rehab Projects

Sunday, March 28 at 1:00pm

Taught by Dave and Julia Fish of Fishaus Craftsman Builders, this workshop provides insightful information on evaluating a home as an integrated system. Discover your home’s green potential and establish priorities.

 

Sustainability at Iowa Campuses and Beyond

Sunday, March 28 at 2:00pm

Students and directors who are making a difference on campuses across the state join COSC’s Executive Director Lynnae Hentzen to discuss visions for a sustainable Iowa and how Iowa can support ambitions beyond the academic experience.

The Natural Living Expo will take place at the Polk County Convention Complex, 510 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa. Exposition hours are Saturday, March 27, 2010 from 10:00am to 6:00pm and Sunday March 28, 2010 from 11:00am to 4:00pm.

About Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa

COSC’s Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa is a statewide training program covering residential, commercial and energy-specific sectors of the green building industry. Created to help Iowa re-build sustainably in its disaster recovery efforts, the program is designed to improve the state’s ability to construct healthy, durable, energy-efficient and cost-effective built environments. COSC leads a collaborative approach with multiple partners in providing consistent, comprehensive, sustainable building trainings that utilize local expertise to implement national standards. Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa is supported by funding from the Iowa Department of Economic Development and the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) was established in 2005 as a nonprofit to serve as Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in higher standards of living. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific programming can be found at www.icosc.com and www.facebook.com/icosc.

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Media Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist

COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities

515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

Iowa’s Center on Sustainable Communities Teaches Green Building Techniques In Disaster-Impacted Communities

Rebuild Iowa Office: Promoting sustainable building in Iowa
Governor Chet Culver
Lt. Governor Patty Judge
Lt. General Ron Dardis, Executive Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dec. 31, 2009 Media Contacts: Tina Potthoff Rebuild Iowa Office (515) 242-5232 (o) (515) 975-9211 (c) Fax: (515) 242-5006

Note: More than $3.6 billion in disaster-recovery funds have been committed to Iowa since the 2008 floods and tornadoes. “Working to Recover” is an effort by the Rebuild Iowa Office to show how disaster recovery funds have assisted individuals, businesses and communities as the money flows out through recovery programs administered by local, state, federal and non-profit agencies. Volunteer efforts will also be highlighted.

(DES MOINES) – Iowa’s Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) helps fill a vital role in Iowa’s recovery from the 2008 summer disasters: Teaching Iowans to build safer, stronger and smarter through green practices.

In August, the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED) signed a $1 million contract with COSC to deliver its “Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa” curriculum to regions hardest hit by the natural disasters. The curriculum used by COSC, a non-profit agency created in 2005, teaches professionals who work in residential, commercial and energy-specific industries how to build green or become more energy efficient with their practices.

The curriculum is designed to help Iowa rebuild sustainably in its disaster recovery efforts, and utilizes local expertise to support national standards. Educating and developing professionals from all sectors of the building and design industry improves the state’s ability to construct healthier, more durable, and more energy-efficient infrastructure, homes and commercial buildings, according to COSC officials.

"We have had a good response to the workshops offered this fall and we continue to work with key partners and communities to figure out what topics are most needed and where,” said Lynnae Hentzen, executive director/co-founder of COSC. “The surveys collected after each class have been very positive and indicate that for the most part, the topics, content, and supporting resources have provided exactly what was needed for those in attendance."

There have been more than 34 single-day or workshop series held throughout Iowa this fall and winter in 13 different communities including Cedar Rapids, West Des Moines, Des Moines, Tiffin, Grinnell and Indianola. COSC officials are currently working on setting times and places for more than 30 workshops planned for spring of 2010.

Training includes general introductions to green building; detailed training on heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; foundations, framing; materials selection; roofing; assessing and prioritizing rehabilitation for existing homes; historic preservation; windows, doors and insulation; and stormwater management. The training is available for builders, contractors and owners of residential and commercial properties.

“These trainings provide greater capacity to rebuild in a more sustainable way,” said Tim Waddell, IDED administrator of the Community Development Division. “The result will be homes that are more energy efficient, durable, healthy and cost effective.”

Two series of workshops are coming up in January and February 2010, and will feature on-site training focusing on three affordable green demonstration homes currently being built in West Union, Tripoli and Volga.

The two series are:

— “Affordable Green Building Training: West Union,” begins Jan. 8, at the West Union Community Library, 210 North Vine Street, West Union. The free 10-session workshop series offers local contractors, subcontractors, planners, architects, appraisers, city officials and other professionals the opportunity to learn about and understand green building practices. The workshop sessions will meet twice a month through May.

— A second “Affordable Green Building Training: West Union” workshop, begins Feb. 6, also at the library. This is a three-session homeowner series that will give residents an overview of green building basics, alternative energy options and essential sustainable elements of new home construction.

Registration is required and seating is limited. To register for either class, contact Leslie Berckes at COSC by calling (515) 707-2787 or emailing her at leslie@icosc.com. Complete information on the “Affordable Green Building Training: West Union” workshop series schedule, and other planned workshops across Iowa, can be found at http://www.icosc.com.

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) Offers Affordable Green Building Training Series in West Union Beginning Jan. 8, 2010
Free workshop sessions concentrate on each phase of building an energy efficient, economical and sustainable residential home.

WEST DES MOINES, IA (Dec. 17, 2009) – Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) presents “Affordable Green Building Training: West Union” beginning January 8, 2010. The free 10-session workshop series offers contractors, subcontractors, planners, architects, appraisers, city officials and other professionals a valuable opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of green building best practices. A separate 3-session homeowner series begins February 6th and gives community residents an overview of green building basics, alternative energy options and essential sustainable elements of new home construction.

“Affordable Green Building Training: West Union” is provided by COSC’s Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa training program to support Northeast Iowa’s disaster recovery efforts and Main Street West Union’s Green Pilot Community initiatives. As Iowa’s trusted educational resource for sustainable building, COSC secured a $1M contract from the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) this year. The contract enables COSC to deliver its Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa curriculum to regions hardest hit by natural disasters. Fayette County is a federally declared disaster area and towns in neighboring counties received extensive damage. “This training will help build the capacity in northeast Iowa to rebuild in a more sustainable fashion resulting in homes that are more energy efficient, durable, healthy and cost effective,” stated IDED Project Manager Jeff Geerts.

These priorities align with West Union's recent designation as a Green Pilot Community by IDED. The pilot project will create best practices and allow the city to serve as a model for other communities to become more environmentally friendly. While the Green Pilot Community efforts focus on the Main Street District and West Union’s infrastructure, COSC’s “Affordable Green Building Training: West Union” will help the community diversify the benefits of its sustainability efforts by including the residential sector.

“In leading a collaborative effort with multiple partners,” COSC Executive Director Lynnae Hentzen explains, “our goal with the Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa program is to build a platform for consistent, comprehensive, sustainable building trainings; using local expertise to implement national standards.” For “Affordable Green Building Training: West Union,” COSC is partnering with the City of West Union, Main Street West Union, Fayette County Economic Development, and the Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation. COSC has contracted instructor and green building expert Jacob Kvinlaug to conduct each workshop in the series. Sustainable building experts from Innovative Kinetics, Cenergy, Fishaus: Craftsman Builders, and Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship will provide additional instruction at specific sessions.

Both the professional and homeowner sessions of “Affordable Green Building Training: West Union” will take place at the West Union Community Library located at 210 North Vine Street in West Union, IA. The series will feature on-site training aspects focusing on three affordable green demonstration homes that are currently being built in the cities of West Union, Tripoli and Volga.

The first professional series workshop on January 8, 2010 will be an introduction to green building basics, addressing planning and design, building science theory and the house-as-a-system approach. Registration is required and seating is limited. To register, contact Leslie Berckes at COSC by calling 515-707-2787 or emailing her at leslie@icosc.com. Complete information on the “Affordable Green Building Training: West Union” workshop series schedule and COSC can be found at www.icosc.com and www.facebook.com/icosc.

About Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa
COSC’s Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa is a statewide training program covering residential, commercial and energy-specific sectors of the green building industry. Created to help Iowa re-build sustainably in its disaster recovery efforts, the program is designed to utilize local expertise to support national standards. Educating and developing professionals from all sectors of the building and design industry improves the state’s ability to construct healthier, more durable, and more energy-efficient infrastructure, homes and commercial buildings. Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa is supported by a $1M contract through the Iowa Department of Economic Development and the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

About COSC
Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) was created in 2005 as a nonprofit to serve as Iowa's trusted educational resource for sustainable building. As the recognized leader in providing education and connecting resources, COSC empowers individuals and communities to make everyday decisions that promote sustainability, resulting in higher standards of living. COSC's schedule of residential, commercial and energy-specific programming can be found at www.icosc.com and www.facebook.com/icosc.

Media Contacts:

Lynnae Hentzen, Co-Founder/Executive Director
COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities
515-707-0732, Lynnae@icosc.com

Siobhan Spain, Communications Specialist
COSC – Center on Sustainable Communities
515-707-2783, Siobhan@icosc.com

IDED, COSC Sign $1 Million Contract to Provide Green Building Training for Disaster Recovery

Iowa Department of Economic Development
August 31, 2009 Press Release

Des Moines, IA (August 31, 2009) - The Iowa Department of Economic Development has signed a $1 million contract with the Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) to develop, coordinate and deliver green building related training programs. The Center on Sustainable Communities, a West Des Moines nonprofit, educates and empowers consumers and professionals to build with a focus on sustainability.

The workshops will build capacity for Iowa's disaster recovery efforts to rebuild in a safer, stronger and smarter manner. At the same time, the workshops will lay the foundation for ongoing training approaches to strengthen Iowa's ability to design and construct healthier, more durable, more energy efficient and easier to maintain infrastructure, homes and commercial buildings. More details on the trainings will be available soon at www.icosc.com.

"IDED and the state of Iowa are excited about this opportunity and the numerous public, private and nonprofit partnerships that the Center on Sustainable Communities is bringing to this training effort," said Iowa Department of Economic Development Director Mike Tramontina. "It not only aids in Iowa's immediate recovery efforts, but also lays a strong foundation that will support Iowa's long-term sustainability efforts with an emphasis on energy efficiency and renewable energy."

Approximately 60 trainings will be offered throughout the late summer and fall with additional trainings to be offered in 2010. Training topics will range from general introductions to green building to detailed trainings on heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; foundations, framing; materials selection; roofing; assessing and prioritizing rehabilitation for existing homes; historic preservation; windows, doors and insulation; and stormwater management. Trainings will be available for both residential and commercial properties and for contractors as well as homeowners and building owners.

Partners in the project include: One Source Training (Community Colleges), Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Iowa Utility Association, Iowa Historic Preservation Alliance, Iowa Energy Center, Iowa Department of Public Safety, U.S. Green Building Council Iowa Chapter, Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities, Greater Cedar Rapids Area Home Builders Association, Iowa Association of Community College Trustees, Cenergy and RDG Planning and Design.

For more information please contact Jeff Geerts at IDED at 515.725.3069 or greenstreets@iowalifechanging.com.

COSC Announces Champion Sponsors

August 29, 2006 – Des Moines, IA. Center On Sustainable Communities announces three champion sponsors:

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

Wells Fargo is committed to being environmentally responsible in every community in which they do business. The Company integrates environmental responsibility into their business practices and procedures, and has pledged to make $1 billion in lending and other financial commitments by 2010 in environmentally beneficial business opportunities. As one of the largest employers in Iowa, Wells Fargo is sustaining its commitment through its local support of COSC. Through Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, they are striving to support residential green building through lending packages that recognize the increased value of a home that incorporates energy efficiency, resource conservation and good indoor air quality. For further information, see www.wellsfargo.com/about/csr/ea/ or https://www.wellsfargo.com/mortgage/

MidAmerican Energy

Energy efficiency and environmental RESPECT are core values of MidAmerican Energy Company. With multiple programs to support this philosophy, MidAmerican believes energy efficiency and environmental management are good business. MidAmerican’s EnergyAdvantage® programs in Iowa, including the HomeCheck(SM) residential audit and New Homes programs, and Environmental RESPECT are examples of innovative programs they are implementing to support more sustainable communities across Iowa. For more information on all their available programs, see www.midamericanenergy.com.

Applied Art and Technology

Applied Art & Technology, an award-winning video and interactive production company, is based in Des Moines and offers the exceptional talents of professionals from many creative disciplines to meet your communication needs. Since 1993, Applied Art has served a broad array of clients including local and regional advertising agencies, federal, state and municipal agencies, insurance companies, manufacturers, hospitals, universities, charities, retail malls, museums and other attractions, and more. Applied Art’s interactive media team delivers effective communications in a variety of media formats including computer-based presentations and applications, DVDs, websites, and touchscreen kiosk installations. For more information visit www.appliedart.com.

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities promotes residential green building in Iowa to encourage homeowners and building professionals to embrace conscientious building practices that create sustainable neighborhoods. COSC serves as a resource for education and provides a broad network of local and green building professionals; a local connection to suppliers of green building products; a sample showroom of green building products; and a local schedule of green building seminars and workshops. COSC’s office and showroom is located at RDG Planning & Design, 301 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA. For more information please visit www.icosc.com.

For more information, contact:
Lynnae Hentzen
Executive Director
(515) 309-3266
Lynnae@icosc.com

COSC Hosts Sarah Susanka Event

“The Not So Big House®”

Des Moines, IA – June 21, 2006 – This fall the Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) is hosting Sarah Susanka, author of The Not So Big House® book series and best selling author, architect and cultural visionary for an afternoon and evening event on October 4th at Hoyt Sherman Place.

Susanka’s approach has been embraced by homeowners, architects and builders across the country and she is leading a movement that is redefining the American home with her “build better, not bigger” approach. Susanka is a sought-after resource by industry groups and members of the media. She has shared her insights on big ideas for small spaces on The Oprah Show, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and Charlie Rose.

In February 2001, Fast Company named her to their debut list of “Fast 50” innovators whose achievements have helped to change society – an honor preceded by her selection as a “top newsmaker” for 2000 by Newsweek magazine and an “innovator in American culture” in 1998 by U.S. News & World Report. She ranked number 14 out of 50 in Builder Magazine’s “Power Brokers” – the most influential people in the building industry.

Susanka has earned similar accolades for her books. Her first, The Not So Big House (1998) spent two years among the top five best sellers on Amazon.com's Home and Garden list. Creating The Not So Big House (2000) ranked among the top 15 books in the New York Times "Advice & How To" best-seller list. Through her columns in Fine Homebuilding and Inspired House magazine, Sarah explored issues commonly encountered in new home design and remodeling.

In Susanka’s book Home By Design, she illustrates principles that govern how we experience space, light and order in our homes, and reveal the tricks used by architects and designers to make their creations comfortable and engaging. Susanka believes that by giving names to the key ingredients of good design and explaining how they can be applied in any home, builders, designers, and homeowners will be able to dramatically improve the quality of house design.

In 2007, Random House will publish The Not So Big Life, where Sarah will adapt the same revolutionary principles to how we experience our lives. She will offer guidelines for easing our chaotic and overcommitted lifestyles, slowing down and eliminating less fulfilling activities to make time for those things that give our lives a personal signature and deep satisfaction.

About COSC

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) promotes residential green building in Iowa to encourage homeowners and building professionals to embrace conscientious building practices that create sustainable neighborhoods. COSC serves as a resource for education and provides a broad network of local and green building professionals; a local connection to suppliers of green building products; a sample showroom of green building products; and a local schedule of green building seminars and workshops. COSC’s office and showroom is located at RDG Planning & Design, 301 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA. For more information please visit www.icosc.com.

About Sarah Susanka

Prior to her work as an author and public speaker, Sarah Susanka was a principal and founding partner of Mulfinger, Susanka, Mahady & Partners, Inc., a firm specializing in residential architecture in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She spent 16 years at the company, which was selected to design the 1999 Life Dream House. Susanka is a registered architect, a member of the American Institute of Architects and is a certified interior designer. For more information visit www.susanka.com or

www.notsobig.com.
For more information, contact:
Lynnae Hentzen
Executive Director
(515) 309-3266
Lynnae@icosc.com