The results are in.... our Zero Net Energy Center is officially zero net.  After one year of collecting data, we are generating more energy than what is being used, and we're celebrating.  Joining us is the City of San Leandro, which has cause to celebrate as well.  San Leandro is a city of 85,000 residents and it is about to enter the future.  With an enviable location, good transportation, civic infrastructure, affordable housing, and more, San Leandro is becoming a force in innovation.  Lit San Leandro is funded by a leading local business owner in cooperation with city, and federal governments.  Its objective is simple: attract new businesses to the San Leandro area by modernizing the communications infrastructure, without relying on public

funds.  We invite you to join us on Thursday, November 6, 2014 to celebrate our successes.

Save the Date for the District 9 Summer Meeting on July 9-10, 2015 at The Montage, Laguna Beach.  The tentative meeting format is:

Wednesday, 7/8:  Early arrivals

Thursday, 7/9:  Chapter Manager's Meeting, 10AM-12PM

Council Meeting:  2PM-5PM

Reception & Dinner that evening

Friday, 7/10:  Breakfast & Meeting, 7AM-11AM

Afternoon Golf (Optional)

Look for registration materials, which will be emailed soon.  NECA is expecting a large turnout, so consider registering as early as possible to ensure your choice of accommodations.  Contact Julie Russell at the Chapter office for any questions.

There continues to be significant interest in what IBEW and NECA have to offer to prospective building owners, city officials, and general contractors.  On September 23, a team from Swinerton Construction's LEED Buildings group toured the facility with much interest in the systems and methods used in the construction of the ZNE Center.  The next general contractor to visit was Skanska Corporation, the 6th largest GC in the world.  Both organizations were extremely impressed with the training that IBEW electricians and NECA contractors perform and expressed the desire to expand our relationship and work opportunities on future projects.

The East Bay Economic Development Alliance Executive Committee, consisting of elected officials and business leaders, held its annual planning meeting at the ZNE Center on October 3rd.  These decision-makers are looking to increase their focus in the area of energy efficient buildings and renewable energy.  One guest shared at the conclusion of the tour that IBEW-NECA has provided a great example of what can be done with existing commercial buildings, especially in meeting California's goal of retrofitting 50% of existing commercial buildings to zero net energy by 2030.

On November 12, 2014, the City of San Leandro will host "Prototyping the Future" at the ZNE Center.  A large and distinguished group of decision-makers will visit the to share and learn about 21st century advances that are occurring in San Leandro.  IBEW-NECA is once again at the heart of this conversation as an active participant in making our communities and buildings more sustainable.

The outside entrance to the ZNE Center has undergone a significant change with the installation of the engraved pavers.  Many IBEW 595 members have become a permanent part of the training center landscape by having their family names displayed on colorful pavers that lead the way into the building.  A special thank you goes out to Deanna Murchison for spearheading this effort, both in assisting members with placing orders as well as the final installation.  It is not too late to share in this enduring opportunity by placing your order online at www.znecenter.org or visiting the ZNE Center in person.