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I would like to start by wishing everybody a happy and healthy holiday season. The holidays are a time to enjoy family and reflect on the past year. Hopefully, many of you will also have an opportunity to take a break prior to heading into 2009.

Earlier this week the U.S. Commerce Department released October stats indicating that new home and apartment construction have dropped to an annual rate of 791,000 units, a 4.5% decrease from September.

Cliff Chen of the Union of Concerned Scientists issued a statement this week lauding California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s signing of an executive order to facilitate renewable energy project development in the state.

I hope you had the opportunity to attend the Midwest Roofing Contractor’s Association (MRCA) National Conference Nov. 12-14 at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center near Dallas. Not only was the venue the most beautiful resort you will ever be in; the hospitality offered by the MRCA staff was near flawless.

As I sit here packing my things for my trip to Boston and the 2008 GreenBuild show, I have high expectations.

Imagine a science-driven, objective online database covering all aspects of high-performance roof systems that allows users to comment and conduct peer reviews with an interactive format like Wikipedia.

I love nature shows, especially those that demonstrate ferocity in the animal kingdom. Last night I caught a segment where an imposing monitor lizard went looking for lunch in a badger’s den, only to end up becoming lunch for the badger.

Many building codes now mandate intake and exhaust ventilation for attics. It’s easy to see why. A properly ventilated attic can save energy, eliminate excess moisture, prevent mold, and prevent ice damming in winter. And, by minimizing heat buildup in the attic, proper ventilation can even prolong the life of the roof system.

When I took my first trip to California in 1982, the state’s sunny skies, palm trees and ocean views entranced me. With the Mamas and the Papas’ “California Dreaming” playing in my head, I understood why people were moving there in droves.

Who wouldn’t love to discover hidden treasure? Wouldn’t it be great to stumble across a priceless painting at a garage sale or find a rare historical document in your attic?