On Wednesday, April 24th, members and friends of Kentucky USGBC met at the Bread Box, located at 501 West Sixth Street in Lexington, home of West Sixth Brewing Company and FoodChain. We gathered for a tour of FoodChain, the non-profit neighbor of West Sixth Brewing Company. Rebecca Self, Executive Director, gave our group a special tour of the facility, which is currently undergoing construction of an indoor aquaponics system. FoodChain's plan is to operate a vertical farm in Downtown Lexington. This farm will include an aquaponics system growing both tilapia and greens in a closed loop process. FoodChain plans to use a portion of West Sixth's spent grain output as an input for their system. Their process will develop to include mushroom production and worm composting to utilize food waste. Later, the farm will include a rooftop greenhouse. The food produced will be sold to the local direct sales market to fund sustainable educational programming. Following the tour, everyone enjoyed connecting with like-minded sustainable professionals in the taproom of West Sixth Brewing Company. Photos courtesy of Brett Ruffing, Kentucky USGBC

The April 17th Lexington Project Tour featured the offices of RossTarrant Architects, the first architectural firm in Kentucky to earn LEED Gold for its own office building. The firm’s commitment to green design is apparent from the moment you set foot on the property. The parking lot is made of pervious pavement to mitigate stormwater runoff and reduce the heat island effect. Specially marked parking spaces encourage carpooling. Native and drought resistant plantings adorn the landscape, and a canopy over the side entrance is actually a solar thermal water heater. Inside, this living laboratory for sustainable design is flooded with natural light. Daylight sensors automatically turn off unnecessary electric lights. Recycled and sustainably harvested materials abound, including carpet made from recycled content and rapidly renewable cork flooring. Energy efficient appliances and water saving fixtures were carefully researched and installed to minimize the building’s footprint. Even the building’s elevator is unique—it uses vegetable oil rather than hydraulic fluid. The building also features an innovative irrigation system designed as a solution to the building’s leaky basement. The system captures the water that would otherwise collect in the basement, stores it in tanks and redirects it to the landscape. As a firm that is committed to education, RossTarrant was adamant that its office also serve as a teaching tool. Signage throughout the building highlights unique features, and brochures in the entry lobby encourage guests to explore. Perhaps the most impressive thing about RossTarrant’s office, however, is that they haven’t stopped reaching. Since earning LEED Gold, the firm has continued to implement new sustainability initiatives. This year, they installed thermal coffee carafes and put their brewing machines on timers. Just by eliminating the need for heating burners and reducing the hours water is heated, they’ve saved more than $1,000 per year and were recognized with a Live Green Lexington award.

Members and guests of the Associated General Contractors of Kentucky and the Kentucky U.S. Green Building Council got together at the Green Building in Louisville for an evening of great networking, eats and fun!

RossTarrant Architects had run out of room to expand. When the firm made a 1950s-era building its new home, the potential for applying sustainable design practices to the renovation was obvious. RossTarrant was proud to receive LEED Gold certification for the new space. Daylighting is a central element of the new design. Light sensors automatically reduce supplemental lighting as the interior spaces are bathed in natural sunlight. Tubular skylights carry sunlight into interior spaces. Motion sensors turn off lights in unused areas. More than 90 percent of regularly occupied workspaces offer views outside. Solar energy is even used to heat the building's hot water. Paints, caulks and other materials were carefully chosen to severely limit or eliminate the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) enabling the building to meet extremely rigorous standards for indoor air quality. Recycled, reused and locally-manufactured products were utilized throughout. Features like its comprehensive recycling program, special bicycling, carpooling and mass transportation accommodations, ENERGY STAR appliances, and water saving fixtures ensure that RossTarrant's "green" office will be an energy efficient, sustainable environment well into the future. Photos courtesy of Brett Ruffing, Kentucky USGBC

Photos from the Louisville Green Scene held at Ramsi's Café on the World. Green Scene is a great opportunity to meet and learn about other people and businesses involved in sustainability. Chris Tyler, Kentucky USGBC Board Chair, welcomed everyone and provided an update about future educational and networking events. Green Scenes are scheduled each month, alternating between Lexington and Louisville.

The Lunch & Learn program on March 13, 2013 educated us about how the ancient material of CONCRETE meets modern construction goals and code requirements. We reviewed in-place concrete structures as a testament to concrete’s durability and disaster resilience. Energy efficiency construction methods using concrete, including net-zero buildings, were covered. Jill Lewis Smith, AIA, NCARB, President, Civic Consultants Inc. did an excellent job educating and engaging the participants. Brett Ruffing, Education Committee Elected Rep, introduced the speaker. Chris Tyler, Board of Directors Chair, welcomed us to his training room and gave a brief chapter update. Brett is the Education and Technology Specialist at Kentucky Ready Mixed Concrete Association and Chris is the Sustainability Engineer at Thermal Equipment Sales. Article and photographs by Communications Committee Event Reporter Tom Hailey of Bristol Group.

A little snow and cold winds could not keep a couple dozen chapter members and guests from gathering at Glenn's Creek Brewery in Lexington on Wednesday evening, February 27, 2013 for a Green Scene networking event. Business cards were exchanged and conversations held about mutual interests in Greening Kentucky. Emily Ashburn, Director of Business Development & Account Services for Paladin gets the credit for the arrangements with the venue. Chris Tyler, Sustainability Engineer with Thermal Equipment Sales, and the KY USGBC Board Chairman, brought us up to date on chapter business. He announced upcoming events and the search for a new executive director. Central Kentucky members look forward to more Green Scenes in Lexington in 2013. Photography and article by Communications Committee Event Reporter Tom Hailey of Bristol Group.

Green Law Presentation - February 26, 2013 The Kentucky USGBC participated in the AIA/CSI Annual Trade Fair at the Galt House in Louisville on February 26 by hosting a two hour Green Law presentation. Greg Parsons of Stites and Harbison presented an in-depth legal perspective on Green Building, LEED Litigation, and Standard Green Building Contract Provisions and Practical Considerations. The presentation included a backdrop of several court cases and legal precedents from around the country. About seventeen A/E/C professionals attended. Photography and article by Chapter Communications Committee Event Reporter Tom Hailey of Bristol Group.

The 2013 Kentucky USGBC Advocacy Day was a success. On Thursday, February 7, twenty-one chapter members gathered in Frankfort, Kentucky during the second day of the legislator’s session. The group’s purpose was to: • Introduce the Kentucky U.S. Green Building Council to our Kentucky Legislators • Educate them about the KY Green Schools Caucus and encourage participation in Caucus meetings • Build awareness and support for green building • Make them aware of the legislation that we are supporting The group gathered at 8:30 am in the Capitol Annex to review the objectives and agenda for the day. Chris Tyler, Ryan Daugherty, and Brett Ruffing lead the orientation session. Then teams of three or four people were formed, each with a group leader. These teams met with about 30 legislators in individual meetings throughout the morning and after the legislative session concluded in the afternoon. A room with a conference table and refreshments was used as a command center between appointments with legislators. The chapter participants got to know one another better during these breaks. After lunch in the Capitol Annex Cafeteria, the chapter members gathered at the entrance to the House of Representatives. Members who were active in 2012 were called into the chamber for a group photo in front of the members of the House. Some of the legislators joined the group for the picture. Then all chapter members were invited upstairs to the gallery and watched as the business of the Commonwealth of Kentucky was conducted. The group also had a photo taken on the steps leading up to the House of Representatives. After an interesting and successful day at the Capitol, the chapter hosted a reception at the nearby Berry Hill Mansion. The Capitol was visible from the back porch of this beautiful historic home located on a hill above the Capitol grounds. Even a deer came to visit us on the back lawn. Photography and article by Communications Committee Event Reporter Tom Hailey of Bristol Group.

On Wednesday, January 16th over 30 LEED professionals gathered at Wyatt Tarrant & Combs law offices in Louisville for a great informational program on LEED building certification tips and slips. Though it was cold and wintery outside, the conversations and presentations were warming and well received. Brandon Martin, Chief of Mechanical Design at the Louisville District of USACE and the Technical Lead for the Regional Center of Expertise in Energy, Sustainability, and LCCA, and Steve Thibaudeau, civil engineer at the US Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville District, shared their experiences with LEED certification applications and government reviews of LEED credits to help you avoid their own and observed LEED Certification "slips”. Eric Senn presented on behalf of Land Design and Development about the Kosair Children's Medical Center at Old Brownsboro Crossing. Thank you to our gracious hosts Wyatt Tarrant & Combs for welcoming us to their conference center and providing lunch. Chris Head Executive Director Kentucky U.S. Green Building Council

Kentucky Proud. That’s what we were at our Lexington Green Scene on December 5, 2012.This gathering was at the Kentucky Proud Market in the Civic Center Shops, which was a fun departure from holding it at a restaurant. We had the store displays to browse as well as the conversation to enjoy. The delicious snacks were supplied by Kentucky Proud vendors. We had a mix of regular attendees, and few first timers. Although there were not many of us, those of us who did attend enjoyed the relaxed evening. Article and pictures by Communications Committee Event Reporter Tom Hailey of Bristol Group

Photos from the Louisville Green Scene, November 7th from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM at Builders Exchange of Kentucky. Members and friends of the Kentucky U.S. Green Building Council and Builders Exchange of Kentucky had a great time at this networking event for people interested in sustainability.

On Monday, October 22, 2012 Wilmore Elementary School officials in Jessamine County, Kentucky hosted an inspiring Kick-off meeting for its LEED EB Pilot Project. Upon completion of this project, WES will be the first school in Kentucky to receive LEED Certification for an existing building. The Kick-off was led by chapter members Chris Tyler and Bill Sharp. Joining them to speak to the students in the audience were Superintendent Lu Young, Principal L. Andrea Hayden McNeal, Wilmore Mayor Harold Rainwater, Representive Bob Damron, and Senator Tom Buford. Board member Debra Hood showed her support by joining the speakers in front of the room. The students were asked a few questions by Lu Young at the conclusion of the Kick-off talks, and it was apparent that they understand the project objectives, and they are “on board”. After the session, twelve team members convened in the school library to plan the next steps. They were Bill Sharp of CMTA Engineers, Chris Tyler of Thermal Equipment Sales, L. Andrea Hayden McNeal, Principal of WES, John Clemons, Energy Manager for Jessamine County Schools, Sarah Lamere and Kelly Ives of Ross Tarrant Architects, Greg Guess and Eileen Hardy of the Department of Energy Development and Independence (DEDI), Fred Byrd of Siemens, Bob Soffel of Critical Energy Solutions, Scott Southall of CDP Engineers, and Chris Zitelli of ECOS Material and Services. Article and pictures by Communications Committee Event Reporter Tom Hailey of Bristol Group

Event report and photography by Communications Committee member Tom Hailey of Bristol Group. The Kentucky USGBC hosted a membership breakfast in Lexington on Wednesday, October 10th, 2012. Just as in 2011, we convened at 7:30 am at the Village Host Pizza and Grill on Old Vine Street. A full breakfast, great coffee and green oriented conversation started the day off right for about twenty six current and prospective members. Enthusiasm for our common objectives was reinforced by the committee reports. Much has been accomplished and even more high impact activities are being planned. Gary Hisel with Gray Construction reported on the education committee, Brett Ruffing with the KRMCA reported on the membership committee, Chris Tyler with Thermal Equipment Sales reported on the advocacy committee, Chris Head, Chapter Acting Executive Director, reported on the communications committee. Cliff Ashburner of Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs LLP presented a State of the Chapter address as the Chapter Board Chairman. He also reported on the Green Schools Initiative and showed us The Map, which at a glance shows the current status of counties in Kentucky regarding their Energy Star, LEED or LEED-Energy Star ratings for schools. Cliff inspired us to get involved with the initiative to fill up The Map with green. Chris Tyler delivered a well organized and graphically rich PowerPoint presentation about what goes into the design and construction of a green school building. He emphasized that this initiative includes bringing existing structures and new construction up to green status. Emily Ashburn of Paladin, Inc. staffed the registration table, welcoming each member and providing guests with information about membership. Chris Head kept the program moving along and we finished right on time at 9:00 AM. This left plenty of time for those not in a rush to enjoy more biscuits and gravy!

Louisville Green Scene September 26, 2012 Some experiences are certainly worth repeating. Kentucky USGBC members feel that way about hosting Louisville Green Scene functions at Ramsi’s Café on the World on Bardstown Road. On Wednesday evening, September 26th, 2012 about twenty-five members and visitors dropped by to network and hear chapter updates. Cliff Ashburner of Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs LLP serves as the Chapter Board Chairman. He reported on the Green Schools Initiative and showed us The Map. It shows the current status of counties in Kentucky regarding their Energy Star, LEED or LEED-Energy Star ratings for schools. It is an inspiring visual, showing at a glance which counties have schools that meet the requirements for the various levels of participation in the program. As Cliff stated, the objective is to “fill up the map” with green. Chris Head, acting Executive Director of the chapter, announced upcoming events for the next few months. There are many, and he accurately and enthusiastically discussed them, all from memory! They are posted on the chapter website. Steve Eggers of K. Norman Berry Associates announced the upcoming Advocacy Days in Frankfort, and stressed the opportunity for volunteers to assist with various aspects of this event. Angela Stephens of Stites & Harbison, PLLC provided a membership committee report. She said we are starting a Member Spotlight feature on the website, and she requested volunteer reporters to interview key chapter members and write short articles about them. Emily Ashburn of Paladin, Inc. and Nicole Pavelich of BFMJ Structural Engineers staffed the registration table, welcoming each member and providing guests with information about membership. Event report and photography by Communications Committee member Tom Hailey of Bristol Group.

The chapter held a Credential Maintenance Program session on Wednesday, August 22nd at the Paul Sawyier Library in Frankfort. Thirteen chapter members earned 6 CE hours over the course of the day in three different modules. David Freedman, LEED Faculty, from Atlanta, GA educated and led detailed discussions on Water Use, LEED for Contractors, and the LEED Documentation Process.**** The chapter held a LEED Green Associate Test Prep class on Thursday, August 23rd at the Paul Sawyier Library in Frankfort. Eight class participants went over the finer points of the completing and passing the LEED Green Associate test. David Freedman, LEED Faculty from, Atlanta, GA led this one day workshop which prepared participants to pass Part I of the LEED Accredited Professional Exam: the LEED Green Associate. The Green Associate credential is essential for anyone who wants to prove their familiarity with the green building industry or who is planning on taking Part II Exam for the LEED AP credential.

The Kentucky USGBC hosted a project tour at the Locust Trace AgriScience Farm on August 15, 2012. Locust Trace is a Net Zero Energy 9 -12 Fayette County Public School located at 3591 Leestown Road. At Locust Trace, students learn about agricultural business, farm management, environmental stewardship and entrepreneurship. The students work directly with animals and crops at the 82 acre site. The students can take classes in Plant and Land Science, Biotechnology and Environmental Science, Agriculture Power Mechanics, Equine and Vet Science and Small and Large Animal Science. Locust Trace leads the way in sustainability by pursuing net zero energy usage and “sitting lightly upon the land”. The farm is minimally connected to water, sewerage and electrical municipalities. Locust Trace relies on photovoltaic solar panels, constructed wetlands, on site wells, cisterns, and passive solar and geothermal technology. Topics touched on during the tour included the collaborative project process, Net Zero Energy + Water + Waste goals and strategies, and cultural challenges with making the shift to renewables with this real world education project. The tour included the academic building, the greenhouse, the arena, and the outdoor site. The braver participants enjoyed climbing a ladder to the catwalk in the arena, and were rewarded with spectacular views. The tour was led by Susan Hill, AIA, LEED AP BD+C with Tate Hill Jacobs Architects. Joining her in presenting were Stephanie Febles, CGD, EIT, LEED AP and Isaac Fedyniak, LEED AP BD+C, CEM, NABCEP PV (both CMTA Engineers) along with Kevin L. Warner, registered landscape architect with Carman, a landscape architecture, urban design and civil engineering firm. Tour participants earned 1.5 GBCI CMP Credits. Report and pictures by Communications Committee Event Reporter Tom Hailey of Bristol Group.

On Wednesday, July 11th, twenty-two Kentucky U.S. Green Building Council participants gathered to tour the new Kosair Children’s Medical Center – Brownsboro. Attendees met in the first floor café area for a presentation about the construction and design of the building. Joe Mudd, Senior Project Manager for Messer Construction, spoke about the Insulated Concrete Forms that were used during construction and the bio-swale landscaping surrounding the building. The tour included the interior and exterior features of the project. It was a great time and extremely educational for those in attendance.

Green Scene Louisville June 27th, 2012 at Ramsi’s Café on the World. KY U.S. Green Building Council and International Interior Design Association. The temperatures were scorching on Bardstown Road, but the cold drinks inside the walls Ramsi’s Café brought together two great groups for a night of camaraderie. The KY U.S. Green Building Council hosted an event that invited the membership of the International Interior Design Association. Over the course of the evening, forty five individuals representing both organizations gathered to network and socialize. The evening’s conversations were only interrupted for about 10 minutes with Cliff Ashburner, Chair of the KY USGBC Board, making some remarks concerning Chapter happenings, membership, and the September Green Apple Day of Service event the Chapter will be participating in. Brandi Pash and Victoria Mayer with IIDA both spoke about membership and upcoming IIDA functions. Finally, Chris Head, Acting Executive Director for the KY USGBC, closed the comments with announcements on upcoming Chapter events and the raffle drawings. Kelly Burke with Office Environment Company won a $50 gift card donated by IIDA. Mark Sites with Mindel Scott and Associates won the split the pot sponsored by the KY USGBC. The evening could not have been more successful and both organizations look forward to hosting a joint venture again in the future.

Lexington Green Scene June 6, 2012 The Lexington Green Scene on Wednesday evening June 6, 2012 was exceptional for many reasons. The venue was the patio at Nick Ryan’s Saloon on Jefferson Street in Lexington. The weather was perfect with sunny blue skies, low humidity and a slight breeze. The only aspect of the evening that topped the venue and weather was the excellent mix of guests. We enjoyed conversation with a diverse group of Kentuckians interested in sustainability issues. In attendance were designers, engineers, facility managers, attorneys, construction executives, and building component manufacturer’s and services representatives. A total of thirty eight people dropped by for networking and wonderful Nick Ryan’s food and beverages. A highlight of the evening was an announcement by board member Ryan Daugherty - McBrayer, McGinnis, Leslie & Kirkland, PLLC. She informed us that Chris Head has accepted the position of Acting Executive Director of our chapter. Then Chris discussed upcoming events including the Louisville Green Scene on June 27th, Project Tour at Kosair Children’s Medical Clinic on July 11th, LEED UP Louisville on July 25th Project Tour at Locust Trace in August and the Lexington Green Scene at Natasha’s on September 5th. He concluded with a comment about the focus of the Chapter in the future on our Green Schools initiative, and his commitment to his new Executive Director role. We all welcomed Chris with a round of applause. Report and pictures by Communications Committee Event Reporter Tom Hailey of Bristol Group.

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC – SCHL International) successfully sponsored two days of educational sessions in partnership with the Kentucky USGBC. The programs were held in Louisville at the Holiday Inn Hurstbourne on April 25, 2012 and in Lexington at the Campbell House Crowne Plaza on April 26, 2012. The five topics were “Designing with Insulated Concrete Forms” by Paul Camozzi of Amvic Building System, “The Design and Performance Advantage of Composite Shake” by Patrick Smith of Enviroshake, “Reflective Insulation and Radiant Barriers” by Peter Clarke of Covertech Fabricating Inc., “Cost-Effective Energy Savings and Drain Water Heat Recovery” by Joel Murray of RenewABILITY and “Ventilated Rainscreen for Improved Moisture Management” by Tom Karry of Cosella Dorken Products Inc. The emcee for both days was Tambu Kamukosi, Trade Consultant with CMHC International. Attendees earned 5.5 GBCI CE Hours toward maintenance of their LEED Green Associate or LEED AP with specialty credential and 5.5 AIA Learning Unit Credits (HSW/SD). Event report and photography by Communications Committee member Tom Hailey of Bristol Group.

The Kentucky USGBC Louisville Green Scene on Wednesday evening, March 28, 2012 was held at Ramsi’s Café on the World on Bardstown Road. It was a pleasant and energetic mixture of networking, fun and celebration. The celebration honored the leadership of Executive Director Joan Pauly over the last four years. This event was her last in that role. She is moving on to other sustainability related endeavors. She spoke with affection about her time with the chapter and the lifelong friends she has made. The Chapter Board Chairman, Clifford H. Ashburner - Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs, LLP, was eloquent in his praise of Joan’s leadership. Chris Head, Events and Outreach Coordinator, spoke about Joan’s dedication to the chapter and his enjoyment in working with her. Pat Nall, Board Vice Chair, presented Joan with a “green” plant to remember us by, which she accepted while sitting on the bar wearing a hat tossed to her as a “crown”. This event reporter likes to think that he might one day “retire” while sitting on a bar wearing a funny hat! Mark Clark of CORT provided us with a talk about the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) and invited us to consider membership. His podium was a chair in the middle of Ramsi’s bar. From bars to chairs, we get the job done at Green Scenes. We enthusiastically thank Sherri Koselke, Laura Abbott and Chris Head for their work in arranging this event. We also thank Ramsi’s Café on the World for providing us with a wonderful environment and delicious snacks. Event report and photography by Communications Committee member Tom Hailey of Bristol Group.

The Kentucky USGBC Lexington Green Scene was a great success Wednesday evening March 7, 2012. SkyBar on Main Street was a hit with enthusiastic participants. It provided a perfect venue for networking and great views of downtown Lexington. Joan Pauly and Chris Head spoke briefly about upcoming chapter events. The remainder of the evening was devoted to meeting old friends and making new connections with a diverse group of people involved with the built environment sharing an interest in sustainability. The miniature Kentucky Hot Brown snacks and generous drinks were a hit as well. Plans are already underway for the next Lexington Green Scene. Pictures and report by Communications Committee Member and Chapter Event Reporter Tom Hailey of Bristol Group.

Among the various activities held at the AIA CSI Trade Fair, the Kentucky USGBC provided the morning programming on the topics of Enhanced Commissioning and a panel discussion on adoption of the International Green Construction Code in Kentucky. Event reporting and photos courtesy of Tom Hailey, KY USGBC Communications.

Members of the Kentucky USGBC enjoyed a tour of the UK Center of Applied Energy Research Lab II in Lexington on February 15, 2012. Jason Kruse, LEED AP and Project Superintendent for Turner Construction led an informative tour of the building, which is still under construction. Before the walking tour, twenty four chapter members and participants on the project gathered in the conference room of an adjacent building and learned details from five of the construction team members. Some of the points covered involved the geothermal system, energy dashboard, heat recovery wheel, dry room, clean room, building orientation, and special spandrel glass product. The presentation was facilitated by the following people: • Tim Murphy - Murphy + Graves Architects • Chris Reeves - CMTA MEP Engineers • Candice Rogers - Paladin Commissioning Agent • Jason Kruse - Turner • Erin Sloan - Turner . Event reporting and photos courtesy of Tom Hailey, KY USGBC Communications

Green was the color of the day in Frankfort, KY as the Kentucky Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council held its third annual Advocacy Day at the capitol on January 24th. Chapter volunteers conducted appointments with members of the House and Senate. The goal of these discussions was to create awareness of the chapter and its mission, educate and encourage participation in the Kentucky Green Schools caucus and build awareness of chapter supported House Bills 146: AN ACT relating to green cleaning products in schools and 255: AN ACT relating to the promotion of energy efficiency and making an appropriation therefor. Event Photos and Reporting courtesy of Tom Hailey and Laura Whitus.

Rep Rocky Adkins, (D-Sandy Hook) announced the Kentucky Green Schools Initiative, a broad collaborative legislative effort that will allow K-12 schools to achieve energy efficiencies, help small and mid-sized manufacturing facilities upgrade their energy systems and create jobs across Kentucky. KY USGBC Advocacy Chair Chris Tyler was part of the morning’s announcement.

Another fun gathering of professionals and friends interested in sustainability at the October Green Scene with great food, drink and lively conversation. Joan Pauly, Laura Abbott and Chris Zitelli provided an update on what is happening with the chapter along with introducing our new chapter events coordinator, Chris Head. Good things are happening at Kentucky USGBC! Photographs and captions courtesy of Mollie Weisberg and Minh Nguyen

The University of Kentucky's Davis Marksbury building, part of the UK College of Engineering's "Digital Village," was formally dedicated today with a ribbon cutting ceremony and public tour of the building.The building officially opened earlier this year, and was certified as a LEED Gold building in August by the USGBC, making it the first building at UK to receive a LEED certification. "As the university’s first LEED-certified Gold project and our first facility to be constructed solely using private support and matching funds from the state's Research Challenge Trust Fund, the Davis Marksbury Building represents a creative approach to addressing specific capital needs," said President Capilouto. Photographs courtesy of Jenny Wells, University of Kentucky.

KY USGBC Board Chair Clifford Ashburner presents GE Louisville Data Center with LEED Platinum Plaque. GE unveiled their LEED Platinum Louisville Data Center to the world today and marks the third LEED Platinum project for Kentucky. Our very own board chair Cliff Ashburner represented USGBC and our Kentucky Chapter during the ceremony with Advocacy Committee Member and LEED Plaque Ceremony Task Force Co-Chair Greg Saylor and Executive Director Joan Pauly in attendance. Dignitaries included GE President and CEO Jim Campbell and IT Leader Alan Kocsi as well as Congressman John Yarmuth, Mayor Greg Fisher and Kentucky Energy and Environment Secretary Dr. Len Peters.

Advocacy Chair and KY USGBC Board Member Chris Tyler and Legislative Task Force Chair and KY USGBC Board Member Ryan Daugherty appeared Monday, August 1 before Kentucky's interim house and senate education committee to discuss legislative ideas to help promote more green schools for Kentucky. Several ideas were introduced including a school green cleaning policy, potential funding sources for green school construction and conducting a LEED EB case study to share with existing schools throughout Kentucky.

Site tour of the new Equine Agri-Science Vo Tech campus in Lexington, KY. The Locust Trace Agri-Science Center is designed to meet Energy Star and LEED Gold standards. Net Zero energy: renewable through use of photovoltaics. Other sustainable features include: Rainwater collection. Permeable pavers on roadways and parking. Constructed wetlands, composting and muck bins. Estimated completion: November 2011

JUNE 1 2011 - While attending meetings in Louisville, KY, USGBC Alabama Executive Director John Roper met with Joan Pauly, Executive Director of the Louisville Chapter and the Staff of Builders Exchange of Louisville.

Kentucky Chapter members and guests got together at the Cafe to hear about USGBC initiatives and volunteer opportunities with our committees. Members were encouraged to bring one non-chapter member. A good time with great food and conversation.

Kentucky USGBC LEED UP is a group launced specifically for LEED Green Associates and Accredited Professionals to share knowledge, best practices, bumps in the GBCI road and provide dialogue with peers.

Green Scene is a networking event for people interested in sustainability and a great time to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones. Many thanks to Ramsi's for donating the food and coming up with some creative organic drink specials to celebrate our relaunch.

Chris Tyler speaking about the Kentucky USGBC at the second Go Green, Save Green Workshop, in Lexington. This workshop was designed to provide ideas for cost savings through environmentally-friendly practices. Sessions were offered on energy efficiency, water quality improvement and waste reduction. Tours of local LEED facilities were offered in the afternoon.

Project Tour: University of Louisville Clinical and Translational Research Building - LEED Gold certified. The event began with a LEED project case study and next was a panel discussion with the architect, owner and construction manager. The event concluded with a building tour that provided a first-hand view of the tangible results of the LEED strategies incorporated into the project.

On the afternoon of Tuesday, February 15, after a long day of meetings with state legislators, the members of the Advocacy Committee worked with the legislative Green Schools Caucus and other partner organizations to tour a "Green School". The legislators and their staff were transported to the school in Georgetown, Kentucky on a hybrid TARC bus from Louisville. In this photo, Advocacy Chair Chris Tyler and Advocacy member Steve Eggers make use of the ride over to discuss green building legislation ideas with Representative Mary Lou Marzian (D-Louisville) and Representative Jim Wayne (D-Louisville).

More than twenty volunteers from the Kentucky Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council spent the day on Tuesday, February 15 visiting legislators. During their visits, the teams of 2-5 volunteers "introduced" the legislators to the USGBC and offered the chapter up as a resource for the legislature. In this photo, Board Member and Advocacy Committee Chair Chris Tyler and Advocacy Committee Member Maxine Rudder explained to Senator Robert Stivers (R-Manchester) that sustainable construction is not a conservative issue or a liberal issue, it is an issue of fiscal responsibility.

Joan Pauly, Executive Director of the Kentucky U.S. Green Building Council was the special guest speaker at the February meeting of the Greater Louisville Chapter of IFMA (International Facility Management Association). Joan presented an overview about the USGBC and GBCI organizations, how to become a LEED AP with specialty, and how to register a LEED project. Among those in attendance and assisting with the Q&A were KY USGBC members Glyn Humphrey, Chris Tyler and Gordon Springstead.

Advance Ready Mix, located at 161 N. Shelby Street in Louisville, was the location for the October 27 Green Scene. The large crowd in attendance learned about several products that are often used in LEED projects and sustainable and green construction. A sampling included pervious concrete, decorative concrete, concrete countertops, and Insulated Concrete Forms.

September's Lexington Green Scene was held at the Home Builders' Association of Lexington on September 1. Attendees networked inside and on the back patio until they were invited out to the front paking lot to view a demonstration of just how well pervious concrete can handle a deluge of water. Finley Messick, from the Bluegrass Concrete Promotion Group -- the sponsor of September's Green Scene -- explained the technical aspects of pervious concrete as more than 1500 gallons of water were dumped out of a concrete truck onto the pavement. The results were impressive. All of the water was absorbed into the structure of the driveway.

The crowd of 65+ attendees at the August Green Scene, held at Sign-A-Rama in downtown Louisville, was welcomed by Frank Weiss, Co-Chair of the Board of Directors Kentucky USGBC, as they mingled and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and drinks from Ramsi’s. In addition to a full display of sign possibilities announcing the Green Scene, several sustainable and environmentally responsible signage products were featured. Maggie Payette Harlow, owner of Sign-A-Rama, highlighted some of the company’s green products, which included well-received demonstrations from two outstanding vendors. FujiFilm demonstrated its sustainable printing products using a Fuji Acuity printer, and LG Hi-Macs showcased its "green" solid core panel products which are used to build custom interior signage, displays and countertops. As the evening wrapped up, Sign-A-Rama generously provided “Keep Louisville Green” bumper stickers for attendees and wooden USGBC plaques for members to take with them.

Kentucky Congressman Ben Chandler spent an hour and a half on Wednesday, August 25 talking to members of the Advocacy Committee of the Kentucky Chapter of the US Green Building Council and members of Kentucky's legislative Green Schools Caucus. Chandler first addressed members of the Advocacy Committee and answered questions about national green schools legislation, which he spearheads. After a brief lunch, Chandler addressed Kentucky legislators and answered their questions. Chandler thanked the legislators and others in the audience for their efforts in promoting national and state level green schools legislation and encouraged them to do more with letters to the editor and other public efforts. According to Chandler, "We have a tremendous school infrastructure problem in this country," and building more energy efficient schools is the only answer. "To spend federal money on renovating and constructing more energy efficient public schools is a very wise expenditure of funds. I can think of none wiser," said Chandler. "It is an idea whose time is past due."

The beautiful Oldham County Main Library in La Grange KY was awarded its Gold LEED plaque on Thursday Aug 19, 2010. The La Grange Library is the 1st LEED Gold library in the State, one of 9 LEED Gold buildings in the State. Over 40 people joined together to celebrate this achievement and acknowledge library’s valued place in the community Cliff Ashburner, Chairman of the KY USGBC, awarded the plaque to Susan Eubanks, Library Director. “Buildings are unique. This is a unique project. It started with the occupants desire to provide a better educational experience for their visitors. The building has delivered beyond their expectations,” stated Cliff. Attendance at the library has risen 80% since the new LEED Gold building was opened.

As promised the August 4th Lexington Green Scene was a lovely night as the sun stayed hidden long enough to make it comfortable for the forty attendees. AU Associates President Holly Wiedemann proudly showcased the next generation of urban innovation in Lexington . Project architects Ed Krebs and Christopher Fuller from K. Norman Berry Architects were also in attendance. USGBC KY Chapter Board members Cliff Ashburner, Chris Tyler, Jesse Schook and Clive Pohl met some new faces and too the opportunity to network with new faces.

Over 50 people converged on the Foxhollow Farm Community in Crestwood on a beautiful day in July for good food with a green message. After shopping in Foxhollow’s market for a variety of their organic products including meats, cheese, produce and soap, attendees were treated to the sustainable delicacies of the Mayan Café. In the midst of shopping and dining in this pastoral setting, attendees learned the story of how Foxhollow and the Mayan Café built their working sustainability partnership. Using green farming techniques partnered with sustainable menu planning, this partnership offers customers the best product at the lowest environmental impact. Maggie Barrett, Foxhollow’s fourth generation owner, explained the farm’s sustainable practices and the extent to which they go to ensure organic produce. The Mayan Café’s Anne Shadle shared their journey to working with Foxhollow Farm. Beginning with their involvement with the KY USGBC in 2009 the journey culminated in their current process of menu planning based on seasonal products. Bruce Uca, Mayan Cafe's owner shared the process he went through to plan dishes and menu according to availability. He also encouraged attendees to enrich their diets with locally produced produce and meats and support local farmers at farmers’ markets. At the end of the day, attendees went home having tasted and seen the possibilities of sustainable business initiatives.

From our Chairman: I had the great privilege of attending the USGBC Chapter Leader Retreat in Utah last month.  I had a great time meeting members of the national staff and chapter leaders from throughout the country.  All chapters are facing similar challenges--funding, prioritizing our efforts, and finding a place for our mission in the larger "green" movement.  But while chapters face similar challenges, we address those challenges in as many ways as there are chapters to address them.   I'm happy to say that the hard work we have all put in to the foundation of our chapter and each of our committees has us in a good position to face the challenges we face. Clifford Ashburner

The new Louisville office of GBBN Architects, located at 609 West Main Street, was the site for June’s Green Scene and the latest Gold LEED certification ceremony. USGBC Kentucky Chapter Board Chair Cliff Ashburner presented the plaque to Bob Gramann, President of GBBN Architects. Mr. Gramann talked about the importance of sustainability, and noted that the main goal of the environmentally responsible renovation was to optimize energy performance. This was achieved through a close working relationship between the design team and mechanical contractors. Kentucky Finance & Administration Cabinet Secretary Jonathan Miller attended the ceremony and announced three programs intended to further sustainability efforts and create green jobs. The programs include the Green Bank of Kentucky, which will provide financing to pay for up-front costs of energy-saving projects; the Federal Weatherization Program for low-income households; and the new Kentucky Home Performance Program, which will provide loans and grants to middle class families for home energy improvements. More information on these programs is available by contacting the Kentucky Finance and Administration Cabinet.

Kentucky Chapter staff and volunteers have been hard at work advancing the mission for a sustainable built environment here at home. The growth this Chapter has experienced in the last year has been outstanding (membership grew 65% and LEED registered projects now exceed 140 across the state). Meeting the challenge has been the direct result of the support this Chapter receives through your membership, countless hours of dedicated volunteer time, and our corporate partners and sponsors. Without this support, the Chapter could not have achieved all it has to date. See our Top 10 Chapter Successes on our Membership page.

"Habitat for Humanity for Metro Louisville hosted and sponsored Green Scene on April 28th. The team, which builds simple and affordable homes in partnership with those in need of decent housing, was very excited to showcase their facilities. Habitat is metro Louisville's 9th largest home builder and plans to building 300+ homes within one year. Ron Johnson, Director of Construction, shared the sustainable technologies that are being implemented in the Habitat Homes as well as the process to build and own an affordable Habitat Home. Dale Douthat, Director of Habitat ReStore, enthusiastically described their plans for a new facility - three existing buildings about to undergo a complete rehab utilizing green technologies. The presentation was followed by a tour of the buildings to see the "before" conditions. We will have an opportunity to see the “after” once construction is completed as well as the completed Habitopia campus at a future Green Scene. Check out the great turnout (considering it was Derby week) in our photogallery!

Green Scene Lexington. Plans for a "sustainable" mixed development at Coldstream. Len Heller, Vice President of Economic Development at Univ. of KY discussed Coldstream Development plans.

Washington, D.C. September 22nd and 23rd. USGBC-Kentucky Chapter Advocacy Committee Co-Chair Chris Tyler and Board member Cliff Ashburner took part in the 2009 USGBC Congressional Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C. September 22nd and 23rd. National USGBC staff and Capitol Solutions staff provided training on the substance of pending proposals before the House and Senate and on the most effective ways to inform and persuade both congressional staff and the members themselves. Chris and Cliff met with Congressmen Ben Chandler, John Yarmuth and Geoff Davis. All of the meetings went well and all of the Congressmen welcomed Chris and Cliff and gave them some of their very valuable time discussing building labeling, green retrofits, and green schools. Chris and Cliff also enjoyed meeting fellow USGBC chapter members from around the country, trading stories about their efforts at home and the many state and local efforts currently underway. A good time was had by all.