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Press Release: April 16, 2009

Airlie Center Receives Green Seal’s
Silver Environmental Certification for Lodging Properties

(Warrenton, VA)—Kevin Carter, General Manager of the Airlie Center announced that Airlie Conference Center received the Green Seal Certification-Silver for compliance with the Green Seal Standard for Lodging Properties (GS-33, 2008). Airlie received original certification in August 2004 and was recently awarded the Silver Certification based on Green Seal’s compliance monitoring evaluation for environmental and performance requirements, according to Mark T. Petruzzi, Vice President of Certification for the Washington, DC-based Green Seal.

Founded in 1989, Green Seal is devoted to setting the standards for environmental certification. In 1995, Green Seal partnered with the lodging industry (the nation’s second largest employer) to promote environmentally responsible products and practices within lodging properties.

Founded in 1960 as an ”island of thought” Airlie Center has provided a unique environment for the creative exchange of ideas along with an ongoing commitment to practical conference planning as an integral part of the center’s mission.” Over the past four decades, Airlie Center has hosted more than 10,000 meeting and conferences.

Situated in the heart of the Virginia Piedmont, less than an hour from Dulles Airport, is widely considered to be a leader in environmental responsibility. According to their Environmental Policy, Airlie Foundation and Conference Center holds itself responsible for the environmental impact of all aspects of its operation.

Airlie's organic culinary garden is a sustainable agriculture project established by Airlie Foundation in partnership with the Humane Society of the United States. The garden, known as the Local Food Project at Airlie, works closely with their Grower and Director who collaborates with Airlie chefs and grows a wide variety of vegetables, herbs and flowers for the kitchen. The project promotes the benefits of local food systems and sustainable food production using natural methods. The garden, located a short walk from Airlie House, offers tours and educational seminars throughout the year.

Team Building at Airlie Center includes a unique selection of programs from environmental scavenger hunts to ropes courses. The new Culinary Team Building features Pablo Elliott, Airlie’s Grower and Director who works with a team to create a custom-made culinary event specifically designed for groups of all sizes.

An active member of the International Association of Conference Centers, Airlie Center is well known for its commitment to the productive meeting environment and nationally recognized for its ground-breaking dedication to environmentally-friendly practices. Airlie offers cutting-edge conference technology, comfortable guest accommodations, distinctive local and regional cuisine, and attentive personal service. The facility continues to be a preferred meeting destination for government, non-profit, and private sector groups.

Airlie Center is the home to Earth Day. In April of 1970, US Senator Gaylord Nelson introduced the concept of Earth Day at Airlie Center which is now celebrated all over the world every April 22. This year, Earth Week celebrations at Airlie include several Earth-friendly events including the Hands-on Organic Education at the Local Food Project at Airlie.

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