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May 2007

Middletown, NY – In the year since his appointment to President and COO of Durasol Systems, Inc. the nations largest manufacturer and Retailer of Residential / Commercial Awnings and Solar Screens, Rich LeMond has happily witnessed the corporate improvement and growth he first envisioned when he joined the company as the CFO in 2005.

In an interview last year, LeMond outlined plans to expand the workforce in the Orange County New York facility. The 30 additional positions he outlined then are now active and split between Administration and Production. Currently, Durasol employs more than 225 employees nationwide.

LeMond stated, “Durasol’s recent growth in the Residential market, which is served by over 300 Durasol Dealers nationwide has provided us with the ability to expand our operations.” When asked about sourcing in other countries, an option Durasol’s competitors have embraced, LeMond went on to add, “rather than outsource the manufacturing to other countries, I would prefer to have it cost a little more and keep the jobs in the Empire State. It’s important to give back to the community.”

Darren Mc Kinney of the National Association of Manufacturers agreed with LeMond stating he felt there was an abundance of growth in the country for this product. John Ward, Wallkill Supervisor stated he was 100 percent behind Durasol’s decision to stay in his town.

Many factors have contributed to Durasol’s growth and success in the last 12 months. LeMond points to several changes implemented recently including upgrades in the sales force, restructuring of plant operations and the formation of a Human Resources committee, the enhancements of employee benefits and a revamped and rededicated customer service department.

“Our internal improvements have truly reaped the rewards we hoped for. But our outward face to the customer must show constant innovation as well,” says LeMond. A steady stream of new product offerings has helped in this regard and the launch of the totally redesigned interactive Durasol website promises to create even more positive results for the company.

Additionally, Maureen Halahan, President and CEO of the Orange County Partnership stated, “These success stories impact all of us.”

Durasol celebrated their 23 rd Anniversary in the Awning Industry last year with a customer satisfaction rating of over 98% and over 250,000 awnings sold.