Green Week in Miami !!!

Miami Dade County puts on a whole array of events. Enjoy !!!

Village Green Man


IT’S GREEN WEEK IN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY

Miami-Dade County Hosts a Week of Events from April 16 to April 22.
(MIAMI, April 14, 2009) – Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez and the Board of County Commissioners have declared April 16 to April 22, Earth Week in Miami-Dade County. Residents can be green with free events and volunteer opportunities for the whole family. From Ecofashion shows to Earthfest 2009 to Baynanza, Miami-Dade County residents and visitors are invited to “Be Green”.
“This week offers County residents and visitors a great opportunity to become aware and get involved in helping the environment,” said Mayor Carlos Alvarez. “As a community we can do our part to take care of South Florida and leave behind a better place for future generations.”
Earth Week events will take place across the County and throughout the month of April, including:

Event: Ecofashion JAM@MAM
Date: April 16, 2009
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Miami Art Museum Plaza
101 West Flagler Street, Miami
Summary: In celebration of National Earth Month, Miami Art Museum will roll out the green carpet with Green Art USA.org to host an eco-art fashion show of clothing created from organic, recycled and sustainable materials. In addition to live models, mannequins draped in wildly-inventive, recycled ball gowns formed of truly exotic materials, such as construction fencing, will grace the plaza throughout the evening. Designers whose work will be on view include Catherine Cathers, Mickey Dobovan, Rosita Hurtado, Melissa Kolbusz, Jenny Lynn, Emilio Uribe, Luis Valenzuela and Lisu Vega. Hair and Make up will be by Emilio Uribe. Green Art USA.org will also present Eco-mmunities, a cross-cultural art installation aimed at reducing negative environmental practices and encouraging sustainability.

Event: Miami-Dade’s Water Use Efficiency & Soil Moisture Sensor Training Workshop
Date: April 17, 2009
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Location: John D. Campbell Agriculture Center
18710 S.W. 288th Street
Homestead
Summary: The Workshop will also train participants on how to install and use soil moisture sensors, a popular new tool in water management practices. For more information, please call 305-248-3311, ext. 225 or visit www.miamidade.gov/csd to download a registration form.

Event: Baynanza
Date: April 18 (Saturday)
Time: 9:00am-12:00pm
Locations: Throughout the County
Summary: To register/participate in Miami-Dade County's largest annual beach clean up at over 25 locations. Log on to http://www.miamidade.gov/derm/baynanza.asp or e-mail Vanessa Thomas at vthomas@miamigov.com for more information.

Event: Earthfest 2009
Date: April 19, 2009
Time: 10 a.m. to sundown
Location: Crandon Park Visitors and Nature Center
6768 Crandon Boulevard, Key Biscayne
Summary: The day-long event will feature “green” vendors offering earth-friendly products such as clothing made from eco-friendly materials, accessories and gifts made from recycled newspaper, eco-friendly products for children and infants, the Smart Car, an electronics recycling center, environmental educational organizations, vegetarian food vendors, and much more. For detailed bios of the artists and for more information on Earthfest 2009, please visit the website at www.earthfest.us or call the Crandon Park Visitors and Nature Center at 305-361-6767, ext. 112.

Event: Miami-Dade Solid Waste Management’s Hybrid Truck Unveiling
Date: April 22, 2009
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Stephen P. Clark Government Center (outdoor pavilion)
111 N.W. 1st Street, Miami
Summary: Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez and Board members will unveil the County’s new hybrid waste trucks.

Event: Miami-Dade Agricultural Manager’s Farmers Market
Date: Friday, April 24, 2009
Times: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Location: South Dade Government Center Lobby
10710 SW 211th Street, Cutler Bay
Summary: For more information about the Miami-Dade County Agricultural Manager’s Office, please log on to www.miamidade.gov/agriculture or call 305-971-5091.

Event: Natural Area Tours at the Deering Estate
Date: Daily
Time: 12:30 pm
Location: Deering Estate
16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Miami
Summary: Free with Estate admission: $10 adults; $5 children (ages 4-14)
Join Education and Interpretive Staff Members, and walk in the footsteps of Florida’s first inhabitants. Hike through a lush forest of tropical hardwood trees and clinging vines down the Native American footpath that, near the end of the nineteenth century, would become the first Cutler Road/Ingram Highway. Comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent are recommended for this one-and-a-half mile excursion. This tour begins on the front porch of the Richmond Cottage. For more information, please visit www.deeringestate.org or call 305-235-1668 ext. 233.

GREEN WEEK AT MIAMI-DADE PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM
Celebrate Earth Day @ a Library near you
Kick start a green life with help from the library. Stop by and receive a free reusable “green” water bottle at any of our environmental programs.
South Dade Regional – 10750 SW 211th Street, 305-233-8140
Thursday, April, 16 & 30 - 6 p.m.

Golden Glades Branch – 100 NE 166th Street, 305-787-1544
Monday, April 20, 11:30 a.m.

Main Library – 101 West Flagler Street, 305-376-2665
Wednesday, April 22, 2 p.m.

North Dade Regional – 2455 NW 183rd Street, 305-625-6424
Wednesday, April 22, 3:30 p.m.

Miami Lakes Branch – 6699 Windmill Gate Road, 305-822-6520
Wednesday, April 22, 4 p.m.

North Central Branch – 9590 NW 27th Avenue, 305-693-4541
Thursday, April 23, 4 p.m.

West Flagler Branch – 5050 West Flagler Street, 305-442-8710
Saturday, April 25, 1:30 p.m.

Native American Stories with Melinda Munger
How we care for the earth has its roots in how we treat each other. Native Americans use storytelling to pass on the values of proper respect for each other and the world we all share. With humor, wisdom and the occasional shiver, this program offers tales from a variety of Indian nations. (Ages five and up).
South Miami Branch – 6000 Sunset Drive, 305-667-6121
Saturday, April 18, 11 a.m.

Virrick Park Branch – 3255 Plaza Street, 305-442-7872
Saturday, April 18, 1:30 p.m.

Model City Branch – 2211 NW 54th Street, 305-636-2233
Wednesday, April 22, 10 a.m.

Allapattah Branch – 1799 NW 35th Street, 305-638-6086
Wednesday, April 22, 3 p.m.

Storyteller Carrie Sue Ayvar
Carrie Sue offers lots of “green” stories and reflections to show you what happens when you ignore the needs of the earth.
International Mall Branch – 10315 NW 12th Street, 305-594-2514
Saturday, April 18, 1:30 p.m.

Palm Springs North Branch – 17601 NW 78th Avenue, 305-820-8564
Tuesday, April 21, 3 p.m.

Edison Center Branch – 531 NW 62nd Street, 305-757-0668
Wednesday, April 22, 10:30 a.m.

Kendale Lakes Branch - 15205 SW 88th Street, 305-388-0326
Wednesday, April 22, 4 p.m.

Opa-Locka Branch – 780 Fisherman Street, 305-688-1134
Thursday, April 23, 10 a.m.

Storyteller Indiana Bones
Enjoy Native American, American and Greek tales of Why the Sky is so High, The Legend of Johnny Appleseed and The Dragon and the Olive Tree. Indy's humorous adaptations will leave you giggling.
Main Library – 101 West Flagler Street, 305-375-2665
Wednesday, April 22, 10:30 a.m.

West Kendall Regional – 10201 Hammocks Blvd., 305-385-7135
Wednesday, April 22, 3:30 p.m.

North Dade Regional – 2455 NW 183rd Street, 305-625-6424
Thursday, April 23, 11 a.m.

North Central Branch – 9590 NW 27th Avenue, 305-693-4541
Thursday, April 23, 4 p.m.

West Dade Regional – 9445 Coral Way, 305-553-1134
Saturday, April 25, 1:30 p.m.

Go Green at the Library with Eco-artist Edwin Villasmil
Eco-artist and environmental activist, Edwin Villasmil, shares the joy of going “green” through art. Villasmil’s workshop will offer you the techniques to draw and paint your own picture of the environment.
Main Library –101 West Flagler Street, 305-376-2665
Wednesday, April 22, 10 a.m.

Art of Storytelling Green Festival
This fun family festival will offer tips to make your life an environmentally friendly one! Kids will enjoy “green” crafts, storytelling with Indiana Bones, a “green “ workshop by eco-artist Edwin Villasmil, and the “Every Drop Counts” show by Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department. Receive a free “green” water bottle.
Pinecrest Branch – 5835 SW 111th Street, 305-668-4571
Saturday, April 25, 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

If you would like to make every day Earth Day! Visit http://green.miamidade.gov, or call Miami-Dade’s Answer Center at 3-1-1, for tips on how to live, work and play green in Miami-Dade County.

Gateway to Green Opening a gret success for Miami and Green Building

The opening on April 07 of the City of Miami Gateway To Green Vendor fair was a great success. Talking with many of exhibiters the overall feel of the event is extremely positive.



After an excellent introduction by Mayor Many Diaz, Rick Fedrizzi of the U.S. Green Building Council took the podium. He welcomed the attendees and individuals that contributed to this event as well as the overall success of the transformation of Miami and South Florida. His last visit in an official capacity was almost three years ago when speaking at the Tropical Green Conference held at Miami Dade College.
Since than much has changed in the city. LEED now has become a standard. Diaz pointed out that the recently approved stadium will be a LEED building. Period. No comments, no argument, it was just part of the deal and no one was upset, opposed or concerned about it. Having no comments, no resistance even, on building green was a success. Three years ago there was not a single registered, much less certified LEED building in our backyard. Now it has become the standard. A great success indeed.

A welcome and thank you by Commissioner Sanchez followed . Finally, a key individual of organizing the event and spearheading the committee within the Green Committee, Aina Juliol, Principal of PGI Group, was honored for her birthday; the 21st as Mr. Diaz pointed out.

Overall a wonderful start for the first annual vendor fair.

Village Green Man



More information:



http://www.miamigov.com/msi/pages/gatewaytogreen/default.asp


In the words of the City:



On April 7th and 8th 2009, the City of Miami will be demonstrating its commitment to greenbuilding by hosting its first annual Gateway to Green at Jungle Island. Hundreds of buildingprofessionals will come together to connect with sustainable building products & services, greenindustry experts, and influential leaders in the community. With over 5o exhibitors, educationalpresentations and matchmaking opportunities, Gateway to Green is sure to lead Miami into arevolutionary green building movement.
Vendors will be showcasing energy efficient lighting, water conserving plumbing fixtures, ecofriendly flooring and much more. I
ndependent, third party certification organizations will help to educate attendees on the different seals and symbols that help these products meet rigorous environmental standards.
Community leaders and experts will discuss available government programs to help educate the public on their ability to promote sustainable growth in Miami.
Matchmaking opportunities will connect building professionals to facilitate future business relationships.
Join this exciting event hosted by the Honorable Mayor Manny Diaz, as the City of Miami and Dream in Green lead the path to a sustainable future.

Architecture 2030 Update - Green Building Job Creation

Here is a simple plan from Architecture 2030 to improve our economy. Check out the video and download the full plan to see what you can do.

Village Green Man

How to Save Our Economy in Under Seven Minutes
The Two-Year, Nine-Million-Jobs Investment Plan Webcast
Edward Mazria and the team at Architecture 2030 have
created a concise new webcast on The Two-Year,
Nine-Million-Jobs Investment Plan, illustrating clearly
how merging the 2030 Challenge targets with a mortgage
interest rate buy-down program puts the Building Sector
back to work, creating 9 million new jobs, $1 trillion in new
spending and investment, and a brand-new $236 billion
dollar per year renovation market.

http://www.architecture2030.org/downloads/2030stimulusplan.pdf


Urge Your Representatives to Support the Plan NOW
If the Fed does not tie lower mortgage interest rates to the energy efficiency targets of the 2030 Challenge,
we will miss out on a historic opportunity to put America back to work, rebuild the Nation's economy and
dramatically reduce US energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.


http://www.architecture2030.org/investment/investment_webcast/2030investmentplan_webcast_enews.html


Implementing the Investment Plan at the State Level
MA Takes the Lead on Tying Mortgage Buy-Down to Energy
Reduction.
In its efforts to achieve a zero net energy Building Sector by 2030,
Massachusetts is proposing to create a mortgage buy-down program tied
to meeting energy reduction targets, as called for in the Two-Year,
Nine-Million-Jobs Investment Plan.
In a report submitted to Governor Deval Patrick last month, the state's
Zero Net Energy Buildings Task Force, recommends a "mortgage
write-down" program to "finance deep energy retrofits with no change in
mortgage payments", as well as incentivizing "stretch codes" for
municipalities that want to pursue more ambitious energy reduction
targets.

Gateway to Green. Miami Green Building Vendor Fair

As part of the City of Miami Green Commission we conceived the idea of a green building vendor fair and event quite some time ago. The city has been working hard to make it a reality, and here it is:

Gateway to Green will be hosted next week, April 7 & 8 on Parrot Jungle Island.
In the words of Robert Ruano, Director of Grants & Sustainable Initiatives:


“I hope you will make this event on April 8th. The focus is on green building/green business. We’ve got great panel discussions and the keynote by the USGBC CEO - not to mention almost 60 green vendors that will showcase their products and services.”

The event will surly be exquisite and we are looking forward to Mr. Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO and Founding Chairman of the U.S. Green Building Council, as the Keynote speaker.


To see the details and to register, please go to www.miamigov.com/gatewaytogreen

Village Green Man

Virtual March on Washington - Pickens Plan

Join the Virtual March on Washington.

April 1-3, the new Energy Army will virtuall march on Washington. Pass on the message and join the movement.


Dear friends:

We are already over 3 million strong.
Go to the link below to see whole list.

http://www.pickensplan.com/virtualmarch/

Our virtual march over Washington is going to be historic.
People of all creeds, from one side to the other of the political spectrum will send a strong message to Washington, to implement real, meaningful energy reform to achieve to main objectives:
1. To free the USA of energy dependence from countries who don't like us.
2. To curb pollution and save the planet.

The Pickens plan is fourfold:

1. Dramatically increase wind energy
2. Dramatically increase solar energy.
3. Dramatically increase gas technologies, that are cleaner than diesel, for highway and railroad transportation (an 18-wheeler or a locomotive can't use a fuel cell or a battery), as a transitional fuel that will get us going for the next two decades when more efficient technologies are feasible for massive transportation.
4. Increase energy efficiency of buildings to save energy without reducing our standard of living.

Please help us do it, register today for the march, and email this to all our friends!

Village Green Man

Earth Hour 2009 Miami Events

As earth hour is approaching once again, there are many great events surrounding this simple but ingenious idea that you can participate in. If nothing else, just turn your lights at home or in your business OFF for one hour. That’s all!

To learn more about earth hour: http://www.earthhour.org/

This list was send from Dream in Green. Thank you for passing it on !

Village Green Man


COCONUT GROVE:

Event Name: Coconut Grove Chamber Green Luncheon at Sonesta Bayfront HotelDate: March 27 FridayTime: 12:00 - 2:00 pmLocation: The Sonesta Bayfront Hotel in the GroveSummary: Featured speakers Edith McClintock of Dream in Green Foundation and Robert Ruano, City of Miami's Director of Sustainable Initiatives, Noel Gourmelen, PhD student at Geodesy Laboratory, Division of Marine Geology and Geophysics, UM Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, with a fantastic slide presentation from his recent trip to Antarctica, and Frank Couzo, Sales & Marketing Director of Sonesta, the first green hotel in the Grove. Event will feature the Wines of the sustainable local winery, Schnebley. Contact:Richard Issa info@coconutgrove.com or visit coconutgrovechamber.com

Event Name: Miami Science Museum Earth Hour Family CelebrationDate: March 28 SaturdayTime: 11:00-3:00 pmLocation: The Miami Science MuseumSummary: An array of environmentally-friendly activities for the entire family, including: lectures on eco-friendly architecture and Florida's wildlife, native tree informational activities and landscaping, human food chain game and energy conservation activities, what are solar cookers¦ and their use, and much more! Check Globe@Night in the Planetarium -- a cool activity that will let you see the stars. Literally! Also, the Museum's new exhibit, Megalodon: The Largest Shark That Ever Lived! Is now open! All activities are included with regular admission price.Sponsors: Electron Solar Energy, Yahoo! En Espanol, Urbanform Design Group, Hybrid Buildings Inc., Miami Country Day School, Urban Paradise OrganizationContact: Adriana Villar avillar@miamisci.org or call 305.646.4405Event Name: Bike the Grove Bike RackDate: March 28 SaturdayTime: 4:00-6:00 pmLocation: Peacock Park & Coconut Grove Chamber TerraceSummary: An inauguration of the bike rack at Peacock Park, with a celebration (4 - 6 pm) on the Terrace of the Glass House. Biking enthusiasts are encouraged to attend (and then stick around for Earth Hour). About 200 cyclists expected.Sponsors: Leadership Miami, (an organization created by the City of Miami Chamber of Commerce), The Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce, City of Miami Parks & Rec.Contact: Richard Issa, info@coconutgrove.com

Event Name: Grove Chamber's Dinner & a Movie series at Arts & Minds CenterDate: March 28 SaturdayTime: 8:00 pmLocation: 3138 Commodore PlazaSummary: Candlelight dinner on the terrace at Al Fresco Restaurant, with an outdoor screening of Al Gore's award winning documentary, "An Inconvenient Truth".Contact/Reservations:info@coconutgrove.com

Event Name: GreenStreet Cafe switches off for Earth HourDate: March 28 SaturdayTime: 8:30- 9:30 pmLocation: 3110 Commodore PlazaSummary: Join Greenstreet Cafe as they participate in lights off and switch to acoustic music. During Earth Hour, enjoy their drink menu at 1/2 price off their regular price in honor of the climate change movement.Contact: Sylvano Bignon, proprietor sbignon@msn.com 305.444.0244

KEY BISCAYNE:

Event Name: Earth Hour @ Biscayne Nature CenterDate: March 28 SaturdayTime: 2:00-4:00 pmLocation: Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center, 6767 Crandon ParkKey Biscayne, FL 33149. Please use the North Beach entrance of Crandon Park to access the Nature Center.http://www.biscaynenaturecenter.org/Summary: Come celebrate Earth Hour with a Coastal Ecology program along the beach in Crandon Park on Key Biscayne. The Coastal Ecology program will provide you with a broad background on all the South Florida ecosystems that exist within the Bear Cut Nature Preserve on Key Biscayne. The participants will learn about the history of the barrier island of Key Biscayne, plus how every ecosystem is connected, and how people impact the environment. Activities include a beach and hammock walk, a butterfly exploration in our garden, a walk through the mangroves, and a visit to our exhibit room which houses the various marine animals in the sea grass beds off the Bear Cut Preserve. The Cost is Free, but there is a $5 parking fee to enter Crandon ParkSponsors: Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center. Islander News, Key Biscayne Magazine,Contact/Reservations: (Space is limited so reserve your spot early by calling Claudia Succar at the reservation desk at 305.361.6767 ext. 123 4claudia@mindspring.com

Event Name: Everglades; Art for Children Date: March 28 Saturday and April 4 SaturdayTime: 10:00-11:30 amLocation: Key Biscayne Public LibrarySummary: In honor of Earth Hour and Earth Day Artist Edwin Villasmil will conduct a special 2 part program using art to create awareness of our Environment and Climate Change. The event is designed for children age 5 to12. Space is limited and reservations are required.Sponsors: Key Biscayne Rotary ClubContact: Teresa Morrell, 305.361.5192

MIAMI BEACH AREA:

Event Name: Earth Hour Celebration at MCMDate: March 28 SaturdayTime: 3:00-6:00 pmLocation: Miami Children's Museum 980 Mac Arthur Causeway, Miami Fl 33132 http://www.miamichildrensmuseum.org/Summary: The Museum will feature Earth Hour Activities through the event.Contact:Danielle Black Danielle@miamichildrensmuseum.org DOWNTOWN / BRICKELLEvent Name: A Night Under the Brickell StarsDate: March 28 SaturdayTime: 7:00-10:00 pmLocation: Mary Brickell VillageSummary: Come and enjoy an intimate dining experience at one of our many fine restaurants and shopping while relished in soothing music under the Earth Hour Stars. All day parking reduced to $3.00.Sponsors: Electron Solar Energy, Yahoo! En Espanol. Brickell MagazineContact: Cecilia Maldonado cmaldonado@marybrickellvillage.com

Event Name: Ultra Music FestivalDate: March 28 SaturdayTime: 8:00 pmLocation: Bicentennial Park 301 North Biscayne Boulevard Miami, Florida 33132Summary: Stop by the Earth Hour booth at the UMF event.Sponsors: Generation Engage, Yahoo! En Espanol,Contact: Heather Read heath.read@gmail.com

Event Name: Earth Hour on the Rooftop at MDCDate: March 28 SaturdayTime: 8:00-9:30 pmLocation: MDCC Wolfson Campus on rooftop of building 3, 5th floorSummary: Generation Engage Ambassadors in partnership with the City of MiamiOffice of Sustainable Initiatives will present Project Switch & Save. TheAmbassadors have created a social marketing campaign focusedIn getting MDCC students to switch from using incandescent lightbulbs to Fluorescent light bulbs in order to promote reducing emissions in the community. Students will enjoy food, an acoustic band and Capoeira performance by Nago CapoeiraSponsors: Generation Engage, Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and Downtown Miami Partnership (DMP), City of Miami Office of Sustainable Initiatives, Earth Ethics Institute, MDCC Center for Community InvolvementContact: Ali Ingersoll ali.ingersoll@generationengage.com

Event Name: Azul at the Mandarin Oriental goes Green for Earth HourDate: March 28 SaturdayTime: 7:00-11:00 pmLocation: Mandarin Oriental Miami 500 Brickell Key DriveSummary: Azul is celebrating Earth Hour with a special organic focused tasting menu. Chef Clay Conley has created a special menu available a la carte or as a six course menu.Contact: For reservations, please call 305.913.8358

NORTH MIAMI:

Event Name: Earth Hour at MDC, North CampusDate: March 27 FridayTime: 7:00-8:30 pmLocation: MDCC North Campus outside Lehman TheaterSummary: Generation Engage Ambassadors in partnership with the City of MiamiOffice of Sustainable Initiatives will present Project Switch & Save. TheAmbassadors have created a social marketing campaign focusedIn getting MDCC students to switch from using incandescent lightbulbs to Fluorescent light bulbs in order to promote reducing emissions in the community. Students will enjoy food, an acoustic band and Capoeira performance by Nago Capoeira outside of Lehman Theater. Sponsored by Generation Engage and the City of Miami GardensSponsors: Generation Engage, City of Miami Office of Sustainable Initiatives, MDCC North CampusContact: Ali Ingersoll ali.ingersoll@generationengage.com

More Dade Heritage Trust Walking tours of Miami

As the weekend aproaches, you may wonder what to do. There is of course Earth Hour and numerous events to attend.
Then again, you may want to take a stroll and find about some of the histroy of this town. Check out the walking tours under the Dade Heritage Days for this weeked.

There is also the Island Dreaming boat tour and of course the 5th Annual Deering Seafodd Festival on teh bay, the last one on my calendar...


Brickell Twilight Walking Tour
Friday, March 27, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Tobacco Road
626 S. Miami Avenue, Miami
Tour the city’s financial district with Dr. Paul George. See the original home of Dr. Jackson, Brickell Park and the site of the trading post where Mary and William Brickell traded with the Seminoles in the 1880s. 305-375-1621 for more info. HASF members
$20, non-members $25. www.hmsf.org


Historic Walking Tour of North Miami -Dade Parks
Saturday, March 28, 10:00 a.m. - 1: 00 p.m.
Begin at three different locations
Explore the heritage of North Miami-Dade Parks at “Enchanted Forest” Elaine Gordon Park, Arch Creek Park, and Greynolds Park. Bring the family along with a picnic lunch for a guided walking tour, 45 minutes long, or each of the sites. Bring along sturdy walking shoes, water, sunscreen and cameras. FREE. Call Eric King at 305-948-2891 or
Lola Heasley at 305-895-1119 or Christopher Hernandez at 305-945-3425 for exact locations to meet.


Secrets of Miami City Cemetery: Presentation and Walk
Saturday, March 28, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Lean about tombstones of this historic graveyard and hear stories about the mysterious deaths of the inhabitants from the historical Museum’s Dr. Paul George, and see photos by Dr. Elliot Salloway. Afterward, take the Metromover to visit the final resting places of early settlers, Miami’s first mayor, the Burdine family and Julia Tuttle. Advance reservations suggested. 305-375-1621 for more info. HMSF members $20, non-members $25. www.hmsf.org


Commodore’s Birthday Celebration
Sunday, March 29, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
The Barnacle Historic State Park, 3485 Main Highway
Commemorate the birthday of Ralph Munroe, Coconut Grove pioneer and founder of Biscayne Bay Yacht Club. A delicious meal will be provided on the grounds of The Barnacle, Commodore Munroe’s homestead. Reservations are required. Call 305-442-6866 or visit www.FloridaStateParks.org/TheBarnacle for info. Fee Charged.


Elliott Key: Island Dreaming Boat Trip
Sunday, March 29, 1:30 p.m., 3-hour trip
Biscayne National Park, 9700 SW 328th Street
Kid Friendly, Partially Accessible. Fee/Reservations required. 205-230-1100, www.nps.gov/bisc


5th Annual Deering Seafood Festival on the Bay
Sunday, March 29, 11 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Deering Estate at Cutler
16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Palmetto Bay
Enjoy all-day live entertainment, an outstanding array of South Florida's freshest fish and seafood, cooking demos by local celebrity chefs, art exhibits, kid-friendly fun in the Lil Shrimp Kids Zone, tours of the historic Deering Estate and more… all while relaxing on the lush lawn of South Florida’s biggest backyard on the Bay. Bring your family and friends and plan to spend the day! $15 for adults, $5 for children 4-14 years; Deering Estate Foundation members Free. For more info, 305-235-1668 x. 263, www.deeringestate.org

Village Green Man

Green Lodging grows in South Florida - Miami Herald

Congratulations on this article.

http://www.miamiherald.com/business/v-fullstory/story/962157.html

It is important that all aspects of everyday life change. Now! This article is just what we need to see how every business and every person can do their part to reduce waste and do the right thing for the planet.

Green is no fad. The word may be, but the concepts are very real and very much necessary... so are the effects if we continue to do nothing. Amazing to me that some individuals are still ignoring this threats. Wake and and smell the roses... oh wait! soon there will be none!

Village Green Man
www.VillageGreenMan.com

AIG bonuses, American Greed! Hey - Die Fantastischen Vier

Even though that the bonuses so much discussed these days are a mere one percent of the big picture, the concept resonates with the people. It surely detracts fro the big picture and takes the focus on the side show – nothing new in this media driven environment.
On the way home I listened to some of my German hip hop guru’s latest lyrics and like to offer the translation. Very appropriate!

Die Fantastischen Vier, Hey:

“I have seen many that have come and fail, for whatever goal they represent, no matter how many there are… they bow and knee down.. they swallow and spit to get dressed anew. They lie under bridges and Regency suites, offer their souls only to expose themselves as losers, thought of themselves as the best only to unfold as the bottom of the barrel just to fail and try it again... …; never to understand, where the goal is heading, all these games they are thinking they play, even on their knees they did not realise they had fallen. One million ways to give away your life… you cannot escape me, but don’t rush towards me!!!

Your life turns out to be fallen into its pieces! All the millions, all the investments and good intentions! All the best, house with balcony, lavish parties with 1000 persons. You are everyone friend, never missed a name. Always perfect, sun tanned…everyone’s dream…no question what you can afford, but having no dreams scares you the most… Must be the centre at any cost, getting high from anything…no one may see that you are fragile, because you are all ugly when even your reflection in the mirror is destructible… the years pass by, you try to hold on to them! Surgery and chemistry for a world without faults…lifted on the outside, poisoned from within…sorry, your time here is limited!!!

You do not know how much time is left. Bette be ready anytime!”

Indeed. Nothing we can do! Pretend all you want… life goes on. With or without you !!!

Village Green Man

Taking liberty with LEED - common marketing mistakes!

Nice article about the marketing abuse of LEED. Thank you Ned for sharing!

http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/02/19/taking-liberties-with-leed/

Indeed a very good point! As LEED consulting is the key component of my business, this is a problem that surfaces frequently and seems to result from a lack of understanding of what LEED really is.

As a rating tool, LEED has elevated many buildings to a new, better quality of being built and used. The marketing side should probably focus on these benefits, rather than try to use the catch phrase of being LEED. If needed, and when accurate, the designation of being a LEED registered building seems to be appropriate. This is a true statement once the building has completed the registration process and indicates that clear intend to get the building certified. For the layperson, the light green individual, the recognition will be present and for the advanced, dark green consumer, the understanding will be clear as well.
It will be interesting to see to me, what happens, once LEED has become the building standard and we are ready to move to the next level of truly good buildings. Let the PR campains begin!

Village Green Man
www.VillageGreenMan.com
www.SebastianEilert.com

Hialeah race track on the right track to get saved

I have been following the process to save Hialeah race track for quite some time. There are a number of very involved people that would like to see this lovely monument come back to life and be a beacon of entertainment for South Florida again.
Plans to sell the property off and convert it into large scale development were initially halted by a select group of people looking to change the ownership rights back to someone who actually cares about racing. The final blow to the stop of the project must be credited to the slowing economy. Now the legal struggle is in full swing to restore this property.

Having been featured in many local movies as well as the opening credits for Miami Vice, this would be a true loss for South Florida. There are only a few landmarks left. This is certainly one of them.

Today I noticed this great little article likely to be missed… a permit? Yes, a single permit is a great victory and will certainly contribute greatly to have thoroughbred racing once again in our backyard:

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/top-stories/story/955424.html

Save Hialeah Race Track !! If you like to get involved, join the group that is leading the effort:

http://www.savehialeahpark.com/

Village Green Man

Happy St. Patricks Day ! Be all the Green you can be!!!

Happy and Safe super green day ! Here are a few tips from DERM:

St. Patrick's Day - "Greener" than ever!

This St. Paddy's Day take going green to another level. Don't just wear green, be green!

• Plant a little green - Take some time on this day and plant a tree.
• Eat green - Buy organic vegetables from a local market, to add to your meal, if staying in on this holiday.
• Green walk or drive - Walk or carpool to your neighborhood pub for a night out on the town.
• Mail green - Email your friends greeting cards or invites to a party at your place.
• Save green - Use your dishware and silverware, instead of buying disposables for your guests.

Village Green Man

AIG bonuses!!! Obama outrage…

… the least he could do and did! It is refreshing to see the leadership of this country taking a stand for what is right and needed.

http://www.time.com/time/politics/article/0,8599,1885668,00.html?xid=newsletter-daily

The ongoing greed in this country is truly amazing. It will be important to see how this blow to the supervision of what happens to the funding will affect the Presidents credibility. He is left with little vehicles to remedy the situation and thus look at how other monies will be spent.
Let’s focus on changing something with the stimulus money for the better. There are so many opportunities to go green and make green! Let's get to it!


Village Green Man
www.VillageGreenMan.com

Miami Moving GREEN and Asbestos Free

Contributing Article by Joe Lederman of Asbestos.com

This remains a sensitive topic and contributes greatly to the air quality in any home!


The path to purchasing a home is one of many great experiences for you and your family. Quite frankly, it is the investment of a life time. It is also one that will bring additional responsibilities into your life. Many repairs or renovations may need to be performed on older homes, especially in locations that are susceptible to natural disasters.

Although Florida does not contain naturally occurring asbestos, the substance still made its way to a large portion of the state. Home to Kennedy Space Center and many shipyards such as the Port of Miami, asbestos was a major form of insulation and piping because of his heat, sound and flame resistant qualities.

Potential homebuyers, those remodeling or working on older homes should be aware that homes built before 1980 may still contain asbestos. This is not to make you frightened as asbestos exposure is easily prevented by taking simple precautions. Citizens of Miami are motivated and pushing for continued advocating of new green sustainable building technologies. With the green paradigm more than underway, there are many healthy alternatives that make the use of asbestos obsolete.

If any asbestos is suspected in the home or workplace, the best thing to do is leave it un-disturbed until a home inspector can determine the best course of action. Disturbing asbestos in good condition may cause its fibers to be released into the air. The inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause a rare, but severe ailment known as peritoneal mesothelioma. The amount of asbestos incidents has lead to much controversy involving manufacturers and corporations, who covered up evidence of its toxic qualities for financial gain. Mesothelioma lawyer firms around the country now advocate for victim rights.
The negligence involved with asbestos has become one of the more extensive cover-ups by manufacturers in the 20th century.

If any asbestos is suspected in the home, the best thing to do is leave it un-disturbed until a home inspector can determine the best course of action. Disturbing asbestos in good condition may cause its fibers to be released into the air. However, if removal is necessary, it must be performed by a licensed abatement contractor who is trained in handling hazardous substances. The Florida Department of Air Resource Management administers an asbestos removal program in order to prevent the release of airborne asbestos fibers in places of work, public facilities and homes.
Construction practices are upgrading methods to suit better lighting, heating, cooling systems and environmentally habitable insulation. Green options such as cotton fiber, cellulose and lcynene should be given consideration as replacements to asbestos. According to recent studies, the use of cotton fiber foam has been shown to reduce annual energy costs by 25 percent. The United States Green Building Council reported a savings of $50 to $65 for green constructed buildings.

Village Green Man

Walking tours for the weekend

As part of the ongoing Dade Heritage Days, the following walking tours are soming up for weekend. These present some great opportunities to learn about some historic places in town.
Without knowledge of the past, we cannot improve the future...

Village Green Man

Annual Tour of Miami Beach Gardens
Saturday, March 14, 10:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m.
Miami Beach Botanical Garden
200 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach
Annual tour of six private gardens on Miami Beach. An opportunity to see private garden retreats, waterfront estates and behind the gates of unique Beach residences. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 the day of the tour. The tour includes a reception at Miami Beach Botanical Garden. Reception will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. www.mbgarden.org for tickets on line. 305-673-7256 ext. 206 for further info.

Virginia Key Beach Eco-history Walking Tour
Saturday March 14, 10:00 a.m. 12:00 Noon
Join eco-historian Frank Schena for a walking tour of this historic black beach park, created in 1945 as a public beach for the black community after protests against segregation laws. The beach park had bathhouses, a carousel and other amenities. After closing for many years, it was restored and opened to the public in 2008. Call 305-375-1621 for directions and meeting place. HMSF members $20, non-members $25.

The Villagers Annual Garden Tour
Saturday, March 14, 10:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m.
Presented by The Villagers, Inc. this lovely tour consists of amazing garden treasures
in our midst. Located partly in Coconut Grove, you will experience lush tropical beauty on this tour. $25. For more information and reservations call Shelia Revile at 305-661-2560 or log onto www.thevillagersinc.org. The Villagers cookbook “See It Like A Native” will be on sale for $22 per book. Proceeds benefit historic preservation projects and scholarships.

Water Matters – The challenge of water conservation Part II

Seem to have struck a chord with this topic – or better a pipe! Water is indeed a hot topic and the most challenging resource.

It was pointed out to me that besides the issue of water availability, the quality of the water that is available seems to drop as well. Thank you for your comment, Deepak. The point you raised is certainly confirmed from other sides and has also come up in varying conversations.

Yesterday, someone literally hit a water line outside my office. Fortunately the landlord is on site and was able to remedy the situation quickly. The commotion caused by 4 men trying to isolate and then repair a small water leak was indeed quite amusing. Instant comedy to share another day. Let’s just say that a Jamaican, a Mexican and two white guys there is a lot of funny conversation going on and leave it at that!
Later that day I had a meeting for a tenant improvement for a space located in a multi story building. When reaching the 20th floor and after passing the security guard, we commenced the tour of the space. It included a visit to the public restrooms, that are only accessible to anyone that has passed the aforementioned security check on this floor. Since it is a public space and the client has a set of bathrooms within their usable area, this space is hardly used. Why the elaborate description? Because the water was running in one of the water closets as though it was just flushed. No one would have noticed that if it was not for my walk through. And who know how long it has been running.

Reminds me of another story from a former client: she owned a couple of homes around Florida that she is renting out. This particular property was vacant for a while and eventually she received a water bill in excess of $1000. After inquirieing about the cause of the bill, the following was explained to her: There appeared to be a water leak on site. After the last month reading, they turned of the water service. Even though the employee was on site and noticed the leak before, they did not report it to anyone other than to leave a note at the door… Now my client was left with a outrageous water bill, terminated service and a damaged property .All it took was a phone call to prevent all of the above…

The point is ownership. Take ownership of the environment. Do the right thing and help preserve resources. Water is a simple resource to overlook, but that will soon change.

Besides the EPA Water Sense Program (http://www.epa.gov/watersense ), this morning i hear about the Broward county initiative Water Matters (http://www.broward.org/watermatters ). they have a couple of events coming up, surely worth checking out! Try to make it this Saturday March 14, to the Tree Top Park in Davie. Look on their website for more information.
Then there is the shower head exchange program from Miami-Dade County. A simple free tool to preserve water (http://www.miamidade.gov/conservation/ ).

Finally, if you like to save about 40% on water in use in your toilet, take a look at the dual flush retro fit kit: Flush Choice (www.flushchoice.com ). Tell them Sebastian Eilert, The Village Green Man, send you…


Every Drop Counts!

Village Green Man

Live high - Jason Mraz

Live High, Live mighty, Live righteously. Jason Mraz put together some very neat lyrics. I have to admit it resonates for me, and I like to congratulate in this format. If we all do just one of them, great. We do two, we will likely be a very positive and contributing being. Do them all…

Blessed be!

Village Green Man

Vizcaya and Barnacle Moonlight tours - Dade Heritge Days

Check out these great inexpensive tours coming up this week as part of Dade Heritage Trust's Dade Heritage Days. Building History: Making Memories.

This is a unique opportunity to have access to Vizcaya and the Barnacle after dark:

Moonlight Garden Tour of Vizcaya
Wednesday, March 11, tours begin at 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
3251 South Miami Avenue
Join us for a rare opportunity to see Vizcaya’s gardens by moonlight. Enjoy live music before strolling the formal gardens and learning more about them. Wine and light refreshments available for purchase. Tickets $15; $10 forVizcaya members. 305-250-9133, www.vizcayamuseum.org


Barnacle under Moonlight
Friday, March 13, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
The Barnacle, 3485 Main Highway
Enjoy a concert on the lawn of The Barnacle Historic State Park. Bring a picnic and blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the full moonrise over Biscayne Bay as Cindy Curtis & Company take the stage at The Barnacle, built in 1891 by Commodore Ralph Munroe. No pets. No alcohol. $7 per person. www.FloridaStateParks.org/TheBarnacle for more info. 305-442-6866.

Miami High completed!

Personally attending the grand re-opening of Miami High was a real treat.

It is so true that the Heritage of this city is enriched by the preservation of this amazing structure.

The performance by the Miami Senior Drumline were exhilarating. What great energy. Keep up the beats.
The lovely voices of the Southside Elementary Museums Magnet school chorus were a treat for all and of course The singing Miamis were a unique addition to the celebration. As an integral part of the a capella band Quite Sence, the memories of the quartet struck close to home.

In the words of Dade Heritage Trust:

Many thanks to all the DHT Board members who came to our grand opening of the 1905
Old Miami High in Southside Park. (And you really missed something special if you didn"t!)

Miami Mayor Manny Diaz, Commissioner Joe Sanchez, Coral Gables Mayor Don Slesnick, Arva Parks, Howard Kleinberg, Ann Marie Clyatt, School Board member Agustin Barrera, Shenandoah Principal Lourdes Delgado, and Southside Principal Salvatore Schiavone--andWalter Alvarez--all made great remarks--

and the Southside Elementary chorus and Miami High Drumline and color guard --and the fabulous historic exhibit created by the Shenandoah Middle School students--added a perfect touch.

It made all the seven years of work worthwhile to see the appreciation people felt for having this historic landmark restored at last!

And in the words of the Miami Herald:

Historic schoolhouse serving Miami again
By ANDRES VIGLUCCI

Never before has a humble wooden bungalow in Miami been lavished with so much attention: Two mayors were present, including Miami's Manny Diaz, along with a drum corps and color guard, a serenading barbershop quartet, a choir of school kids, distinguished historians, a tennis legend in his 90s and a legendary public school teacher, a mere 102 years old.
The building they gathered in at a sunny park to salute on Tuesday is no ordinary whitewashed cottage, though, but a remarkable historic artifact -- the first Miami High School, rescued from ruin and resplendently restored to about as close to its original 1905 condition as possible.
Now, more than 90 years after it was turned into a boardinghouse and forgotten, the three-room schoolhouse is again ready to serve the city whose birth it attended. It will be used as office, classroom and community meeting space for Southside Park, where it is now located, and the blossoming West Brickell neighborhood around it.

Water Wars ... or the challenge of water conservation.

Driving to the office this morning, the radio dial fell back to NPR. A short story about the draught in California was on and I could not help to remember some of the conversations I had of recent.
With all the focus an energy savings issue and in particular the reduction on dependency on fossil fuel, the real issue to me comes back to the management of water. The days of considering the bottling of spring water for profit as a ridiculous endeavor are long gone and even basic water conservation has become part of everyday life, certainly in South Florida.

So it is fuel, not water that we need for survival of the species. With the rollercoaster ride of the price of a barrel of crude oil and the obvious implications on continuous reliance on this outdated source for fuel and energy, alternative energy sources are being developed at an increasing pace and we all should see a substantial number of them taking over the production of our daily convenience.
Water use should be at the forefront of our conservation and preservation efforts. Energy use and construction as well as innovation of alternatives are progressing fast. The change is near. The same cannot be stated for water. It is time again for a revolution, the Water revolution.
The United States, generally being behind in a global effort when it comes to elements that do not have in immediate instant gratification or monetary gain, have also recognized this trend.

The EPA just about a year ago launched their Water Sense program to bring awareness to all. Following the success of the Energy Star program, Water Sense will enable the consumer to make intelligent water savings decisions. It then just remains to the same consumer to implement them…

The next area of focus than is a general attitude adjustment. Landscaping remain the largest area of water use for residential applications, this was pointed out again in the program this morning, and is a know fact for anyone working in the South Florida residential market. “Traditional” lawn design uses about 70% of the monthly water bill… quite hefty. Change your design, change your perception and preserve water. And did I mention that you also no longer need the fossil fuel powered machinery to cut and maintain the grass?? In a recent show of hands in my class, all but two students clearly preferred the aesthetics of a Xeriscaped home versus and “lawn with two palm trees” design. Good news for our generation. The next one clearly gets it.

It remain interesting to me that the all so popular USGBC LEED guide has no prerequisite in its Water Efficiency category. This is certainly an area that can improve, and must improve.
As the only species that adapts the environment faster than we could adapt to it, the question than becomes;

What next?

May the future hold a water war scenario such as idealistic films, like Mad Max? chasing and killing for a sip of pure H2O? Or will it be the Waterworld set up that will be in store for us, a flooded planet ruined by the disrespect that we exhibit as a species. Either way, the US has to learn.
We all have to learn. NOW!

Old Miami High GRAND OPENING

Old Miami High Grand Opening DedicationTuesday, March 3, 10:30 a.m. to Noon Southside Park, 198 SW 11th Street(Located by Brickell Station Metrorail and Metromover Station)

Kick off Dade Heritage Days by celebrating the restoration of Old Miami High. Built in 1905 in Downtown Miami as the city’s first high school, this wood frame structure was moved south of the Miami River in 1911. It served as the first Southside Elementary School from 1911-1914, later becoming a boarding house.

In 2002 Dade Heritage Trust led a campaign to save the building from demolition for a condo development, securing funds from KV Brickell Partners, Ltd., the City of Miami, The State Bureau of Historic Preservation, Miami-Dade County, the Miami High Alumni Association, The Villagers, Miss Lamar Louise Curry and other private donors. In 2003 the building was relocated three blocks away to Southside Park. Despite hurricane damage in 2005 and funding challenges, Old Miami High has now been restored as an asset to the community, with an historic classroom for tours, educational meeting space and a City Parks office.

Join civic leaders for a ribbon-cutting complete with music and refreshments. FREE.

RSVP Dade Heritage Trust, 305-358-9572. www.dadeheritagetrust.org

LEED H for HOMES. Rating service for Florida

Veterans Energy Solutions and Sebastian Eilert Architecture, Inc are your one source to provide US Green Building Council, LEED H (Homes) rating services for qualified green homes, in Miami, Florida and beyond.
If you are thinking about building a green home and like to get recognition for it through the recognized LEED brand of green buildings, work with the best.

We can also advise on solar installations, energy and water savings design and other building resource management issues.

Miami Green Man
http://www.ves1.com/
http://www.sebastianeilert.com/

Miami Dade County LEED Silver GSA Ground Breaking with Mayor Alvarez

The first LEED certified building for Miami Dade County had its ground breaking today, Friday February 20, 2009 @ 10 am.
Mayor Alvarez attended the proceedings that were put on by the contractor MCM on at the site of the new building.

The GSA Trades Shop Facilities will be a 100,000 sq/ft building with warehouses and offices. To meet the county required LEED silver certification, the design team, lead by John Junkin of PJB Architects, incorporated a substantial number of energy and water saving measures. The building will reduce waste by design and current construction waster diversion is at 85% with only the demolition phase completed.
The project will of course include sustainable materials, best practices for air quality and a number of measurement and verification tools. Recycling will be taken to a level beyond the LEED requirements as the site will serve as a destination to recycle light bulbs and other construction related materials.

Sebastian Eilert, AIA, LEED AP, the Miami Green Man, is the LEED consultant to the team and ensures that the owner required goal will be met. The Design submittal for the project is drawing near and the team will have a pretty good estimate as to the actual level the project will achieve.

We are all proud to be part of the team that delivers the first LEED building for Miami Dade County.

Watch out for more updates on this exciting county project.


Miami Green Man

Dade Heritage Days 2009

The Dade Heritage Trust, Miami Dade County’s largest preservation organization, has again launched the Dade Heritage Days.

This year’s Theme: Building History; Making Memories offers a wonderful array of events throughout the month of March and April; some free others for a small charge and all worth attending.
Numerous walking tours of the different historic parts of the city are available, including the Art Deco Architectural tour (W,F,S @ 10:30), Secrets of Coconut Grove (Friday March 06, 6 pm) and the Julia Tuttle, Mother of Miami tour (March 01, noon).

There are a number of event revolving around the preservation efforts for the Miami Marine Stadium. Notable is the World Dragon Boats Miami Boat tour (April 25, 9am). Also look for other events and updates for the preservation effort or consider joining the cause! http://www.marinestadium.org/

The DHT Heritatge days are a gret way to get to know your city and the rich history that Miami has to offer. Lookout for the schedule at you local government office, school and many other locations. You can also check the schedule online at http://www.dadeheritagetrust.org/ .

See you there…

Miami Green Man

How to survive in a recession – your small business that is…

Just returned from a small presentation by Gil Zapata, hosted by the Partners for self Employment about how to keep your business running during a recession. The presentation was informal, following print outs of a power point presentation.
Even though the turnout was rather small, Gil did an excellent job at going over a few key points that are sure to keep me thinking.

Generally setting up the talk with a positive mindset, the key aspect is to remain positive, keep a positive outlook and adapt to the current state of the marketplace and the economy. Change, rethink. Go back to the basics. The fat years are gone. Morph!

Another important component was to slim down and cut; any expense you can think of, labor, accounting, materials. Before firing, talk with your employees to reduce salary and eliminate benefits. Even better, as an employee suggest this to your boss. You are sure to be the one not be let go, if and when the decision comes. All in all good points.

When all this is done, rethink marketing. Do it on a low budget, remember how it was done when starting out. Knock on doors if you have to.
“We are in a economic Hurricane – it will pass. The question is when”

I appreciate the sentiment and hope that some of these ideas will be useful for others. Back to the business of Green.

Miami Green Man, Sebastian Eilert.

STOP the Stop signs

I have been witnessing an amazing increase in stop signs in my neighborhoodsand also in other parts of South Florida. Additional signs are being added to many intersections that have minimal traffic and apparently no history of accidents. These added stop signs contribute to the fuel consumption by preventing a smooth, already slow speed in many neighborhoods. By adding them additional energy is necessary and increase in fossil fuel burning the result.
Why do these signs continue to appear and who is making the decisions to put them up?

This is not the preferred way to regulate traffic and the impact on the environment is substantial by increased exhausts. Not to mention the aggravation of having to make additional stops as a driver with no one anywhere around and the increased wear and tear on the car, specifically the brakes.

I say STOP the STOP signs (that are not needed)!

University of Miami - Contemporary Sustainable Design Class 2009

With the Contemporary Sustainable Design class in full swing, the blog has suffered a little in posts.
Preparing for the first couple of lectures has proven a bit more challenging than initially expected. Stil, the feedback has been great and I am moving into week #2. Tropical green with a focus on South Florida will be the topic of discussion. Glad that we now have a few LEED certified buildings of our own, I will share details about the Broward Public Library as well as the Staples center in Miami.

Looking a few weeks ahead, I am in the mists of composing the lecture on cutting edge and pushing the limits of sustainable design. Any pointers to share? Send your suggestions to Sebastian@SebasianEilert.com; there is so much to pick from… I want to make sure that I am really out there as much as possible… HELP!

ASID Career Day - Design Center Ft. Lauderdale & Casa Decor 2007 Revisit

Thank you also to ASID for organizing a wonderful student career day at the Design Center in Ft. Lauderdale. It was a pleasure to participate in the Round Table discussion. The green office at Casa Décor was very popular with the participants and I am glad that we had full tables for all 7 rounds.

My short 10 minute presentation focused on integration and overlap of sustainable issue between architects and interior designer. There are numerous simple items that can easily be included on even the most basic design. Smart, energy saving lighting, non toxic paint and proper window treatments to reduce solar heat gain should be standard for any professional at this time…and there certainly is no need to forfeit any style or quality of design; usually it will enhance any scheme and leave the client happier as the savings roll in…

A little more about Casa Décor. The room was sponsored by USGBC South Florida with the exquisite help of Carl Hildebrandt. Birgit Auge of XO Design did her part to make the 6 week exhibit a success. Thank you both!

As for the design, Kay Witte and Sebastian Eilert crated a flexible home office with custom built furniture, using coconut palm and recycled glass tile. The design concept was to challenge the traditional home office and allow for flexibility of the use of the space and the furniture…so they ended on wheels. Two items were built, a work station to hold computer and accessories , easily closed and moved by one person. Use it in dorms, home office or any space that may require to move in and out… The second piece is a sofa that will allow the use by an individual to sketch, work with keyboard in the lab or sketch freely. It is large enough for a 2 person conference…if more room is needed, roll it aside and, voila, the home office is ready for the “office-party”. To make sure that clutter is minimized, storage is included in the back with a neat roll down door to cover it all.

Thanks to Winfield Austin of Winward Associates, the ideas were made a reality. I am pleased that the ideas are still well received today, over a year after end of the exhibit…

Super Super Therm- Part I

Many may have heard about this great paint that will provide superior insulation to any surface and can easily be applied for new construction as well as existing homes. Adding an instant improvement to the insulation with an R-value equivalent of 22 and another 10 if applied to the outside with a high level of reflectivity. This product was originally developed for NASA application and found its way into the construction market. The application is easy and it sticks to just about any surface. Some may require a little preparation work, but all will share a similar result.
So what is this amazing product?

Super Therm; specifically, Super Therm II.

After first hearing of this product about a year ago, my interest in learning more about it quickly sparked. Simple to apply, great effect, instant energy savings. What is not to like.
Being the hands on guy that I am, the next step was clear. Coat the roof of my home. I measured the temperature in my attic for a few month and can report that the 3:12 slope roof with trusses and a minimal crawl space averaged temperatures of 140 to 165 degrees. FPL had completed an analysis of my home and found the insulation adequate. This may reasonably be true for the interior space, but the mini attic, holding most of my water pipes and HVAC ducts, certainly did not agree. Teh heat stored here contributed to higher demand on the HVAD and longer wait in the shower for the water to reach a normal temperature. Not enough space made adding insulation impossible Super Therm seemed the solution.

The house before coating. Brown Asphat Shingle

In November of 2008 the application was completed and now the roof of my home is white. Since then we were blessed with mostly cool weather, but is important to note that an improvement is evident. Temperatures in the attic have not passed 100 degrees and the home stays cooler, longer.

After coating with Super Therm - White Roof

The digital display, pre Super Therm, started at 77 in the morning and raised to 85 after 10 am during the day. Until that time, the AC started up a number of times. After Super Therm, the unit has not started once in the morning. A definite success.

I am looking forward the hot summer days to further document these readings. The first FPL bill came in yesterday and showed another improvement. Granted, it is winter, but the money saved may still be attributed to the new paint. I am certainly convinced and will up the promotion of this superior product.

Save the planet, one cool surface at a time…

Get Green to keep Green - Energy Savings plans for your business.

Sebastian Eilert Architecture, Inc has been working on a number of packages to enable business owners to implement many green features that will save operating cost with a very short return of investment (ROI). A recent addition of a lighting option further makes this service attractive.
If you own your building or are in charge of upkeep, contact SEA to get a free consultation. Most of the items suggested can be done with minimal impact to operations and may even fall under standard maintenance.

Consider painting your roof to enable a 20 to 30% energy savings on HVAC demand. Change lighting fixtures to further reduce heat gain and associated cooling cost. A quick replace of water fixtures can bring down the monthly cost by 30 to 40%.

There are many small things that can be done right now to help save some green… oh and you are doing the right thing for the environment, too.
www.SebastianEilert.com 786.556.3118

M + M House LEED H certification getting closer

The exquisite home of local Architect Mariacarmen Martinez is getting closer to completion.

Sebastian Eilert Architecture, SEA, together with Veterans Energy Solutions (VES) is doing the LEED H certification for the project and we are approaching the dry in inspection.
The home is a unique design that considers many factors of the local climate and is pushing the energy efficiency currently pursued by other homes. With an all white exterior, overhangs and careful massing and orientation on the site this home will no doubt be one of the most efficient homes in Miami, likely South Florida.

The site was largely undisturbed, pool and mayor trees were kept in place, other substantial platns were relocated to other areas of the property. No solid driveway is intended and the site will be draught free and naturally shaded.

Additional consideration for materials and water savings as well as a compact layout for appliances and fixtures will further reduce water demand. Careful consideration has also been taking in selecting the materials and finished.

The M+M Residence will be a shining beacon of sustainable design with a minimal monthly operating cost and excellent clean air quality.

www.upstairsstudioarchitecture.com – Architect
www.jamescrossinc.com – Contractor
www.SebastianEilert.com – LEED Consultant

A new years toast

Welcome 2009;
may the year be fine.
Projects plenty and green;
many new clients to be seen.
Old ones merry and content;
with finishes unbend.
Health, wisodom and cheer;
time for another beer...

Blessed be.

Commerce South LEED EB O&M

Another LEED project for Sebastian Eilert Architecture.

Commerce South was successfully registered as a LEED EB O&M Project.
The initial steps are on their way with the Energy Star analysis completed. As expected, we did not make the initial score and will have to update the HVAC and lighting systems as well as the overall insulation for the building. As the contact for the Chamber, Edward Stieglitz of the LEED Depot, is as excited about finally moving the project forward, as me.
Together we are looking to maximize the efficiency of the small structure and make it a shining green example for the City of South Miami.
Plans are on their way to add solar panels to the project and showcase as many items as possible. Cleaning policies and best practices will be available for members and visitors to take a piece of this future registered green building to their homes and businesses.

Keep an eye out for updates about this excellent project, right in your backyard…

New Class @ University of Miami

It is great pleasure that i can share that a new elective will come to the University of Miami, School of Architecture:

Contemporary Green Design
Concepts of sustainable building, regional sustainable building and the current most common green building initiatives
Spring 2009

Contemporary sustainable design will educate about the current state of the construction marketplace with a focus on green design. The general introduction will include global markets, with a particular focus on European technologies and trends. Sustainable or green design as well as local green building challenges will be reviewed.
The course will provide information about available rating systems such as the US Green Building Council LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) as well as other available systems such as the AIA Committee on the Environment (COTE), the Florida Green Building Coalition and Environmental Protection agency (EPA) programs. Current technologies and old versus new design strategies will also be part of the class.

Taking the US Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professional (AP) exam is a requirement of this course. Registration, examination and related cost are the responsibility of the student.

Required reading material is the USGBC Reference Guide for New Construction (NC).

2008 Greenbuild Update - Boston

After another attendance to the Greenbuild conference, this time in Boston, I am glad to report of the success of the conference.

First, a note on the exhibitor space. The floor has grown once again in size from the previous year. It is observed with great pleasure that more vendors as well as more variety within the different fields was represented. One area that I was particularly thrilled with was the availability of LED lighting. Numerous vendors specializing in this field as well as other that are adding a line to their exiting offerings displayed their products. Implementing these lights will be very exciting.
The Boston Convention center has two very clever designed bridges crossing the floor allowing for a spectacular overview of it. At any given time it was filled. I am certain most vendors will call it a success.

As for the lectures, I was a little disappointed. The presenters were good but the content was lacking a bit of cutting edge for my taste. Much of the information presented was all too familiar for me. Maybe I just choose the wrong lectures. I am also sure that most attendees found the information rather stimulating.

Various organizations organized numerous tours of Boston, a very interesting city indeed. Personally, I attended the Boston Harbor Cruise. A very educating three hour ride through the harbor area to also feature two wind turbines.
Thank you to everyone that helped to organize the event and we will see you all again next year.

CB

10x10 Miami

The Green Man was proud to be one of the creative minds to participate in the October event of 10 x 10 Miami. Hugo assembled a fantastic lineup of individuals to share some of their ideas.
If you are not familiar with this event, take a look at:

10x10miami.blogspot.com

Be sure to look for the next event. It is a great way to get some ideas and see what others are doing in this town…

Team 7 Showroom Grand Opening

The Green Man is honored to particiate in the Grand opening of the Team 7 Miami showroom. After permitting the plans for this great company I was asked to contribute to the event with a presntation on green design.
Tonight, November 08, 2008, @ 7 pm the celebrations will commence as part of the Design District Gallery night.

SEA will give a presentation about South Florida Sustainable Interiors starting @ 8 pm.

to learn more about Team 7 and their high quality natural furniture, look here: www.team7.at

See you there...

Marine Stadium. Victory! - Part 1...

As some of you may be aware, the Miami Marine Stadium is currently under media attention as the City considers to remove the structure to make way for future development. Following the loss of the Orange Bowl, many consider this another great loss for the city and Friends of the Marine Stadium as well as the Dade Heritage Trust and many other local and national organizations have begun a stand up for the structure in an attempt to preserve and restore it to a potential of variety of uses.
Tuesday a number of interested parties attended the excellent presentation by Becky Matkov-Rober and Jorge Hernandez to the preservation board of the City of Miami. After support from numerous architects and other interested parties on record, including the original designer Mr. Candela of Spillis Candela, the board voted 7-1 to approve the preliminary designation of this structure as a historic site.
It is by no means the end of the process, but an important first step that will not allow any demolition to take place for 120 days. The clock is ticking to move things along…

Published in the Herald today:

Marine Stadium closer to historic status
By ANDRES VIGLUCCI

Proponents of saving the iconic but neglected Miami Marine Stadium easily cleared a significant hurdle Tuesday when they persuaded the city's historic preservation board to consider designating the modern structure as a protected landmark.
By a 7-1 vote, the board agreed to hear a fleshed-out proposal to designate the 1964 stadium on the Rickenbacker Causeway as historic after some 25 speakers -- including prominent architects, preservationists and rowers who use its basin -- extolled the architectural and historic significance of the raw-concrete building, widely regarded as a masterpiece of design but closed for 16 years. A public hearing and final vote is expected in the fall.
Proponents of designation, grouped as Friends of the Miami Marine Stadium, persuaded board members that the building's dazzling design and significance to a generation of Miamians make it worthy of designation even though at 44 years of age it doesn't meet the 50-year threshold typically used as a guideline for evaluating historic sites.

AIA Miami COTE - Designing Green with Window Shades

The AIA Miami Committee on the Environment (COTE)
Presents
Designing Green with Window Shades
1.0 AIA CEU credits

This seminar covers important day-lighting topics and the benefits of daylight in interior spaces. Learn how to transform natural light into usable light that will meet your design goals. In addition, the course will cover how interior shades can contribute to LEED certification. Juan Figueroa, LEED AP will lead the discussion and presentation.



Wednesday June 04, 2008

Dinner Reception
6:00 pm
CEU Presentation
6:30 pm
Sound Components Showroom
1533 Madruga Ave.
Coral Gables, FL 33146
305-665-4299
www.soundcomponents.com

Dinner and drinks provided by:
Lutron Electronics, Lighting Dynamics & Sound Components

Space is Limited
Please RSVP by May 30 to
AIA Miami at (305) 448-0136 or
Sebastian Eilert at Sebastian@SebastianEilert.com

Greening the South Florida Marketplace

As the global economy looks with concern to the real estate market, the effects are felt by all of us. Living and working in Miami, Florida, the building industry that I am part of has come all but to a halt. As it relates to the South Florida market however things are a little different. The local market conditions have their impact on overall building as well but an ongoing trend in construction focuses on sustainable design.
Within this aspect of the sector, the local market is quite stable. Since building sustainably can still considered to be in its infancy in South Florida, the overall slow growth is helping the movement. Higher quality buildings that are environmentally sensitive, save energy and water and improve indoor environmental quality, are finding their way into every structure still in design and even construction. The US Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system is doing its part to channel projects into a credible and measurable path of green certification. Even projects that are not eligible to be rated under LEED are implementing sustainable features. Savings in water and energy translate into direct savings in operating cost. Other features also attract attention as the public is asking for more green; bus schedules and routes provided to clients, non toxic paint and adhesive selection to improve indoor air quality, installation of FSC certified materials and rapidly renewable flooring such as bamboo.
After the large boom of construction in downtown Miami, particularly the condo market has all but collapsed. The skyline once filled with cranes now only boasts a hand full of steel monsters moving among the clouds. Slowing down may have its positive though. An evaluation of what we are really building and the impact these structures have on the social and environmental network is now coming to the forefront. No longer is the built it as fast and as cheap as possible attitude presents. Quality finds its way back, by popular demand. Even though the intentions of the initial boom were noble in that they were promoting higher density and less dependency on cars, the execution of that idea is now under scrutiny. Indeed some
So it is with a little amusement to observe the growth in marketing of green building features: Dual Flush toilets, smoke free areas, preferred hybrid parking. Structures still getting out of the ground do their utmost to let the public know about the degree of green they are offering. National incentives to upgrade appliances to Energy Star, an EPA program further help to make sustainable living a reality for many residents, even for those just renovating an existing space.
The South Florida market has now positioned itself as a leader with in the Continental US in green building. No longer does the public just look towards California and the West Coast. Things are moving over here.
The City of Miami was recently even rated the number one Greenest City in the US by Forbes Magazine. What an achievement. Programs like a 40 house energy makeover, sponsored by the city, to improve residents energy bill by 25% or more provide an excellent platform for showing your green as well as demonstrating that indeed every one of can have an impact. And to the pleasant surprise, the good to do to nature also helps to keep some green in the wallet. And maybe soon we will see the first off the grid house in South Florida; sun and wind to thank for it.
Green can be seen throughout the US and other global markets. The awareness to improve the built environment and change the direction that it had been heading in the past is ever greater.
Where do we go from here? …still a long way. We are on the right path and we are strapping down to weather this recession. The green building impact can be driven more by residents and home owners. Professionals are getting more educated and sustainable architects and consultants, like myself, are in growing demand. When the client is requesting a sustainable project or product, the marketplace has to listen and provide the goods. You can help to make the change every day.

The New Green

As the green building movement is taking over America it has finally reached the South of Florida as well. Green or sustainable construction can be described as the latest trend in the USA. Indeed it is not a trend but a realization that the construction industry is one of the largest contributors to depleting natural resources, energy consumption and CO2 emissions. Furthermore the current way of erecting structures leaves the habitants exposed to toxins, artificial lighting and limited quality of air.
The sustainable movement seeks to change all this and has already made a huge impact into the industry. Structures are built with recycled materials, waste to landfills is regulated and minimized and green roofs are finding their way to relieve some of the heat gain produced by otherwise useless surfaces. Buildings are integrated with advanced lighting and temperature control systems; water is preserved and reused where possible. Even solar panels and wind turbines are installed to provide green power to fuel the building without the need for outside, usually fossil fuel based, energy.
Leading stated like California and the Northeast are already showing a large number of these projects completed and are demonstrating the benefit of them with hard figures. South Florida has some unique challenges that make implementation of some of these features difficult. The subtropical climate and high humidity require more conditioning of the built environment, reducing the possibility of natural cross ventilation and heat. Hurricanes do their part to add to the construction regulations and tighten the building codes, limiting some of the elements that can otherwise be installed without much hassle such as external solar panels, cisterns or screen doors.
The local market is transforming and many projects are seen in the planning stages. Some professionals, like myself, are already taking the next step and incorporate many of the available features, materials and technologies, making every project a bit more green. Green is a relative term and I much prefer sustainable design over the currently coined green design. Sustainable design, as I define it, incorporates not just some of the new technologies, available materials and non toxic elements, but it considers the long term benefit and use of a project. This concept carries through from design all the way to paint and furniture selection.
The initial design must consider location, be it a new home or an interior renovation. What are the best features of the project? Where is the natural light coming from? What is the direction of the wind? Once the outside elements are understood the design already begins to take shape. After the structure is erected the selection of area appropriate finish materials should be considered. Find recycled or reclaimed materials where possible. Many new companies are bringing their creations to the growing market. Recycled glass counter tops, coconut palm or cork flooring, slag cement or natural clay plaster. Install all this with non toxic adhesives and use non toxic paint. The improvement in air quality is noticeable from the first day, even during installation. These material and practices reduce asthma and improve overall health.
Installation of high efficiency water fixtures, faucets and appliances does not just reduce the amount of water used but also lowers monthly expenses. Digitally controlled air conditioning systems, motion sensors to regulate lights and energy star refrigerators and cook tops further impact your power bill. Going green is not just good for your health and the environment but also for your wallet.
Not all pieces of a project must be green. Sustainable also means enduring. With this in mind, when furnishing a project, the selection typically finds its way to the higher end of the spectrum. The reason for this is simple. In general we are less likely to throw away a ten thousand dollar sofa, rather, if taste has changed, it can be reupholstered. Is the structure is well finished items will last decades, reducing the waste to landfills. Price is by no means the guiding factor but awareness of future use guides many decisions to decorate. Can this item be reused in the future? Can the item and even the layout adapt to future needs?
Case in point is a recently completed project of mine: The Viola Hollywood condo.
The project is an oceanfront condominium located on the seventh floor of a building in Hollywood, Florida.
The program required to maximize the ocean view with windows only one side of the flat. The owner wanted a lasting decor that would allow adapting with minimal or no alterations in the future.
The inspirations for the design are the ocean, waves and the local residence. The layout is based on shapes of waves and the form of the ellipse to convey a sense of fluidity and motion. The shape was carried through into the selection of lamps and furniture. Items were selected for multiple use by design and mobility, such as two lounge chairs that work alone, at the bar or the living room.
Limited floor to ceiling ratio was visually enhanced by color and material selection. Some items were reused within the unit. Construction debris was separated by type. Wall mirrors, wood studs and hardware were donated. The existing water heater and air conditioning unit were in good working condition and remain.
New materials were selected with the indoor air quality and the overall well being of the owner and contractor in mind. Non VOC paint and adhesives, rapidly renewable material, coconut palm for the floor and natural stones were selected. FSC certified wood for kitchen cabinets and regional material, such as soap stone, were integrated.

Even though a professional designer can best assist in the selection and implementation of these practices, there are many things that can be done by anyone. Start with your air condition system and change the thermostat to a digital model. Program it to raise the temperature when no one is in the building and lower it half an hour before returning home. Change the light bulbs to energy star bulb. When replacing appliances, look for the water and power use data and select a high efficiency model.

Having received my education at the University of Miami with a strong focus on traditional architecture and design, the real world of construction was disappointing to me and lacking quality in many aspects. My upbringing in Hamburg, Germany left me searching for a better way to build and I found the green movement. The USA is a quite a bit behind the curve as compared to Germany. Green roofs, natural ventilation and energy conscious design are basic practice, not here. But things are changing; changing for the better. A notional not-for profit organization called the US Green Building Council can probably be credit with the changes we are seeing in the USA. They created a voluntary checklist called LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) that allows to specifically measure changes to the structure and also recognizes the achievement. There is still a long way to go, but changes are occurring.

The Grass is Greenest...

.....on my side.

Did you ever stop to look around?
I have, and today is one of those days.

Here I am looking around and finding myself staring at the lawn. Mighty green it seems. The sun is dying. Settling for yet another day. Taking all its events, actions and mysteries with it.

It is glooming over my yard. Green well cut, dancing in the sun’s rays. Did the other guys see this? Is their lawn as green as I see it?

Surely it must be. This is the perfect setting. Slightly bussed. Well fed. All is good.

I stop.

I think.

Beautiful wife; nice house; friends and family; everything fine:

F rantic
I nspiring
N ew
E ccentric

So life appears to be peachy. So what are my thoughts rambling on…..
I close my eyes. I listen. Humming. Silence.

The fantasy rises. The wife. The house. The green yard…