Hello readers,

This is our first of two issues dedicated to green homebuilding and sustainable development this year. The August issue shall also examine green themes and will showcase other beautiful sustainable developments and present more innovative products

The California Governor’s office has also contributed this month with an article outlining the state’s commitment to sustainable growth and the environment. I have invited agencies from other states in the region to contribute to the discussion on water conversation, sustainable development and the environment for the August issue of the magazine as well. News from the economic front is slightly more encouraging than in more recent weeks. Better jobs numbers from Q1, a more resurgent stock market, earnings reports that were not as bad as many had anticipated and more decisive rate cuts have produced a nominally improved outlook. However the warning signs in the economy, notably the continuing credit gridlock, liquidity in the financial sector and the continuing reversal of housing’s fortune, conspire to keep the bears hungry and active, when most would prefer they went off to sleep. It is now time for our leaders in congress to act and act quickly to establish a bottom to this mess that we can build off.

While managing your business for these leaner times means keeping a close eye on your balance sheet it is important to wave your flag and keep your messaging visible. Let people know you are still here and as vital and strong as ever!

Work hard, I will see you in the marketplace. Probably at PCBC!

Slainte,

Nick Slevin
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
nslevin@penpubinc.com

and designs for purchasing agents, designers and specifiers to consider when making their selections.

Sustainability can be achieved in various Sustainability can be achieved in various ways, starting with development, home site orientation, construction materials and applied installation techniques. A correct selection of windows, doors, roofing materials, appliances, furnaces and tankless water heaters (to name but a few) is also important; we are pleased to present a showcase of such products from our advertisers within this issue.

As an industry publisher for many years, I am not unaware of the sometimes less than cordial relations between agencies like the Coastal Commission and the development community. Therefore, I decided we ought to invite the folks at the Coastal Commission to submit columns to B&D so that we can move the dialogue forward in a meaningful way. Those builders and developers who have a more comprehensive understanding of the Commission’s priorities will be more likely to enjoy success in their business dealings with them. The USGBC has also been very forthcoming and has been providing columns for some time now too, and, while I am mentioning these institutions, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge our friends at the utility companies who have provided us with updates on their builder programs and incentives this month as well.