Are you ready for the EPA's Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule to go into effect on April 22? Under this rule, contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. We will offer the required training beginning Tuesday, Feb. 9. This course will teach renovation, repair and painting contractors how to work safely in housing containing lead-based paint and comply with the EPA's new rule and HUD's Lead Safe Housing Rule.

Built Green® is proud to debut our Facebook page, just in time to for the 2010 Built Green Conference on Friday, March 12. If you would like to help spread the word or learn more about the conference, we encourage you to follow us on Facebook. And, be sure to share the page with coworkers, colleagues and friends who might be interested in Built Green and its programs. For more information about the annual conference, please visit http://www.builtgreenconference.com.

Don't let this opportunity pass you by without considering the wealth of business you can gather. Come out to the Associates Council After Hours Social at Fortunato's in Woodinville on Monday, Feb. 22. This no-host gathering will bring dozens of current and future members together for socializing, networking and business referrals.

Professional Women in Building is honored to announce our first luncheon event of 2010 with guest speaker Chief Justice Barbara A. Madsen. Join us Tuesday, Feb. 16, to learn about Madsen's work on equal justice, gender equality and violence in the family. Get to know this inspiring woman. She will make you even prouder to be a professional woman in today's society!

At the 2010 International Builders' Show in Las Vegas, our Professional Women in Building (PWiB) Council received NAHB's "Women's Council of the Year" award. This award is given in the form of a scholarship fund for the council to disburse throughout the year to individuals continuing their education within the building and housing industry. Click here to learn more about PWiB.

Join us for happy hour at the Pearl Bar & Dining in Bellevue on Wednesday, Feb. 10, to mingle and network with fellow association members. Sponsored by the Professional Women in Building Council, this no-host event is a great opportunity to meet new people and catch up with old friends. Everyone is welcome.

If you are a disabled homeowner or live with a someone with disabilities in King or Snohomish counties and need a wheelchair ramp, please download the printable registration form and return it to the Master Builders Care Foundation.