The USGBC-LI chapter has reached new heights and it's all due to the hard work and selfless efforts of our members. I want to congratulate everyone for their time and talent in making the chapter one of the premier not-for-profit organizations in the building and construction industry. As I look back over the past year I cannot help but be impressed with the efforts of Long Island's chapter members. First and foremost we have reached the 500 member milestone. A true testament to the hard work and dedication of our membership committee as well as a daily commitment to our core mission, "Transforming the way buildings are constructed." Secondly, Long Island has over 170 LEED registered and/or certified projects listed on the USGBC National website. This represents over 3 million s/f of building space. An incredible accomplishment that can be attributed to the vision shared by all of us who are dedicated to making Long Island a better place to live and work. Thirdly, the chapter has developed educational programs helping building professionals attain the necessary credentials to further the goal of sustainable design. From our LEED study programs at Stony Brook University, Farmingdale State College and NYIT to our LEED for Schools group who are working with students of all ages we are developing a new generation of energy and environmentally conscious building professionals. Lastly it is with great fanfare that I announce our 2010 USGBC-LI Gala honoree - Michael Dowling, president and CEO of North Shore Long Island Jewish Health System. He has made green building design and construction a major focus of his mission to transform the way healthcare is delivered to patients across the New York Metropolitan area. And on April 28, 2010 the chapter will recognize the efforts of Dowling, the North Shore LIJ Health System Facilities Dept. and all the professionals involved in making this goal a reality. It has been my honor and privilege to be granted an opportunity to chair such a fine group of dedicated and committed individuals. Their names are too many to mention but their achievements will last the test of time. The challenges will always be in front of us, whether it is environmental, economic or social, the dedicated professionals of the USGBC-LI chapter stand ready and willing to meet them head on. And we will provide Long Island with leadership, commitment and passion until our mission is no longer necessary. Arthur Desin Jr. is the chairman of the USGBC-LI chapter.