“The angel said to the women, “Do not be
“The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; HE HAS RISEN, just as he said.” Matthew 28: 5&6 (NIV)
Today is World Plumbing Day
World Plumbing Day is observed on March 11 each year. So today we say thanks to all of the very talented plumbing engineers here at GMB. World Plumbing Day was created by the World Plumbing Council as a means of highlighting the important role played by the plumbing industry in relation to public health and the environment.
Clean drinking water is a cause near and dear to the many hearts here at GMB. Please take a moment today to be thankful for the clean water and sanitation infrastructure we have in place, and to remember those in this world who suffer each day due to the lack of such systems. Clean water shouldn’t be a luxury. Want to help? Our friends over @VOXUnited would love to hear from you.
http://www.worldplumbingday.org/
Progress at Holland High School
We stopped by at Holland High School a few days ago to take a quick peak at the finishes in the new Administration Wing. Progress is coming along nicely! The office, as well as social studies and language arts wings, are scheduled for completion in April (here are a few pictures showing the progress). For a more detailed update and additional construction photos, check out the latest “Build 21” update:
A Green Roof Taken to a New Level!
The Spring 2013 issue of “Living Architecture Monitor” features the green roof at the Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA) headquarters in Grand Rapids, the first green roof to be a Certified Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). Working with green roof designer, Advanced Green Architecture, GMB provided the structural analysis for this retrofit project. The green roof features a high diversity of plant species, so as to attract higher diversity in bird and insect species. It also provides the four basic elements required by the NWF of food, water, cover and places in which to raise young, in order to meet the requirements of a “Certified Wildlife Habitat.” Our thanks goes out to Advanced Green Architecture for the opportunity to collaborate on this “NWF first.” And kudos to Christian Reformed Church in North America for their interest in sustainability and their dedication to being good stewards of the earth.
http://www.nxtbook.com/dawson/greenroofs/lam_2013spring/#/34
NCAA III Central Diving Regional Today and Tomorrow at Calvin College’s Venema Aquatic Center
Calvin College has the honor of hosting the NCAA III Central Diving Regionals today and tomorrow. This makes it a great time to take a quick look at their Venema Aquatic Center, which features an Olympic-sized, 50-meter pool with moveable bulkheads to accommodate multiple events at the same time. Venema was built as part of the Spoelhof Fieldhouse Complex, a 362,000 SF facility completed in 2009. The pool accommodates 22 lanes at 25 yards each for laps or racing. Notable features include the 850,000 gallon capacity; high-tech filtration system; spectator seating for 500; 15 foot depth at the diving end, four foot depth in the middle for swimming lessons and instruction and seven feet depth at the starting blocks; four diving boards, two at one meter and two at three meter; and a glass overlook between the fieldhouse and pool. Venema Aquatic Center was the subject of much media attention immediately following its opening, including a Citation in the American School & University Educational Interiors Showcase and an Outstanding Project Award from Learning by Design.
Admission to this weekend’s diving regional is free so come check out both the great student athletes and this beautiful facility!
Congratulations to Lakeview Community Schools!
Supporters of Lakeview Community Schools passed a $12,250,000 bond issue yesterday to make possible renovations and upgrades at Bright Start Elementary, Lakeview Middle School, Lakeview High School and the Bus Garage. Renovations will include security upgrades, roof replacements, technology upgrades, HVAC upgrades, playground upgrades plus much more! Congratulations to everyone who contributed to making this bond campaign a success!
Three Cheers for Unionville Sebewaing Area Schools!
Hip! Hip! Hooray! USA Schools passed a $5,850,000 bond issue yesterday to help fund renovations at the elementary school, middle school and high school facilities.
Thanks to all you Patriots who supported this initiative!




