I wanted to be the first to congratulate Kate Burnham & Marianne Wombacher for taking on the director position on the AIASWW chapter Board. It's great that we finally have not one but two motivated associates that will help put the needs and concerns of the interns on top of the chapter's priority list. I think the next couple of years will be really great for interns. Definitely looking forward to it.
Congratulations!!!!
Emerging Leaders is an open forum for Associates and Young Architects licensed up to 10 years in the field of architecture, as well as others in the design and construction industry.
The group's objective is to support individual and community development and to prepare young professionals for future leadership roles in design and the community.
contact us to stay in touch: aiasww.elg@gmail.com
11.25.2008
10.03.2008
Architectural tour
What's next on the architectural tours?
The new Assembly Hall at UWT is done. Would anybody be able to set up something for a tour?
The new Assembly Hall at UWT is done. Would anybody be able to set up something for a tour?
9.19.2008
Dome District needs our help
-UPDATE-
As many of you know, I have been keeping up on the Dome District Association's planning meetings. They are attempting to voice their concerns about the city's master plan of the area, and propose a new master plan to the city. One of the pressing issues at the moment is the Sound Transit extention that will connect the existing Sound Transit Seattle Tacoma route to Lakewood.
They are attempting to voice their issues with that Sound Transit line to the city, and have an upcoming meeting with them [the city] on October 2nd. Sound Transit has rerouted the line in order to compromise with the plan that the AIA proposed last year. However the Dome District is concerned that the city has not done its due diligence in factoring in the impact of a train crossing at Pacific Ave between 25th and 26th streets.
The Dome district is asking the Emerging leaders for help with this upcoming meeting on October 2nd. They would like us to take a look at the existing Sound Transit proposal and to illustrate the intersections to show the impact on the area. After being involved in this for a while it seems that the biggest problem at this time is that their is no clear and concise study showing the impacts of the intersection.
What does exist is the Sound Transit design proposal that was given to the city. This information is mostly engineering section diagrams of the intersections and a perspective of the Pacific Ave overpass. Our job is to take this information and communicate it in a clear way so that all parties can understand what exactly the design peramters of the area are.
The ultimate goal is to integrate much of the city's master planning ideas and to help the Dome District put its ideas into motion. However this work can not proceed without knowing just exactly what we are designing around.
Anybody interested?
I am planning an informational meeting on Monday the 22nd at TCF Architecture at 5:30pm. Sorry for the late notice, but this whole process is moving very very fast.
You can reach me at JR@TCFArchitecture.com
As many of you know, I have been keeping up on the Dome District Association's planning meetings. They are attempting to voice their concerns about the city's master plan of the area, and propose a new master plan to the city. One of the pressing issues at the moment is the Sound Transit extention that will connect the existing Sound Transit Seattle Tacoma route to Lakewood.
They are attempting to voice their issues with that Sound Transit line to the city, and have an upcoming meeting with them [the city] on October 2nd. Sound Transit has rerouted the line in order to compromise with the plan that the AIA proposed last year. However the Dome District is concerned that the city has not done its due diligence in factoring in the impact of a train crossing at Pacific Ave between 25th and 26th streets.
The Dome district is asking the Emerging leaders for help with this upcoming meeting on October 2nd. They would like us to take a look at the existing Sound Transit proposal and to illustrate the intersections to show the impact on the area. After being involved in this for a while it seems that the biggest problem at this time is that their is no clear and concise study showing the impacts of the intersection.
What does exist is the Sound Transit design proposal that was given to the city. This information is mostly engineering section diagrams of the intersections and a perspective of the Pacific Ave overpass. Our job is to take this information and communicate it in a clear way so that all parties can understand what exactly the design peramters of the area are.
The ultimate goal is to integrate much of the city's master planning ideas and to help the Dome District put its ideas into motion. However this work can not proceed without knowing just exactly what we are designing around.
Anybody interested?
I am planning an informational meeting on Monday the 22nd at TCF Architecture at 5:30pm. Sorry for the late notice, but this whole process is moving very very fast.
You can reach me at JR@TCFArchitecture.com
8.15.2008
Notes from Roudtable Discussion with Joe Vincent and Stan Bowman
There are 3 paths to architectural licensing:
1)Accredited degree (which can now begin ARE testing before completing IDP)
2) Non accredited degree
3) Non degree path
The State of Washington will continue the process as it stands today for those following path 2 and 3. In addition to managing IDP hours, soon NCARB will also manage ARE test results for path 1 stated above.
This will simplify the process for the applicant, facilitate more timely score reporting, and remove processes handled by the State.
NCARB has proven to the state they can handle the added resonsibility. NCARB has recently undergone a complete overhaul/house cleaning where they have had a change in staffing, added new technology, and have changed the process in which they worked. There will be a trial period for this new process and the State has emphasized they have the authority to pull out, if it isn't working. This process is already occurring in many other states.
Beginning in 2009, electronic IDP submittals will be available. This process will be imperative to instating the "6 month rule". The new electronic submittal process will now notify mentors/bosses and applicants. The hope is to add interactions between the applicant and NCARB, and increase the involvement of mentors.
The Licensing Board in the State of Washington is very aware of the problems many of us have had with NCARB. Joe Vincent would like to hear from you about specific issues you have experienced (including dates and names). You can contact him at JVINCENT@DOL.WA.GOV
The AIA at the state level is looking to update their website. Stan Bowman is asking for imput as to what we'd like to see, whether it is links, documents, etc. You can contact Stan at bowman@aiawa.org
1)Accredited degree (which can now begin ARE testing before completing IDP)
2) Non accredited degree
3) Non degree path
The State of Washington will continue the process as it stands today for those following path 2 and 3. In addition to managing IDP hours, soon NCARB will also manage ARE test results for path 1 stated above.
This will simplify the process for the applicant, facilitate more timely score reporting, and remove processes handled by the State.
NCARB has proven to the state they can handle the added resonsibility. NCARB has recently undergone a complete overhaul/house cleaning where they have had a change in staffing, added new technology, and have changed the process in which they worked. There will be a trial period for this new process and the State has emphasized they have the authority to pull out, if it isn't working. This process is already occurring in many other states.
Beginning in 2009, electronic IDP submittals will be available. This process will be imperative to instating the "6 month rule". The new electronic submittal process will now notify mentors/bosses and applicants. The hope is to add interactions between the applicant and NCARB, and increase the involvement of mentors.
The Licensing Board in the State of Washington is very aware of the problems many of us have had with NCARB. Joe Vincent would like to hear from you about specific issues you have experienced (including dates and names). You can contact him at JVINCENT@DOL.WA.GOV
The AIA at the state level is looking to update their website. Stan Bowman is asking for imput as to what we'd like to see, whether it is links, documents, etc. You can contact Stan at bowman@aiawa.org
8.04.2008
More to the Sound Transit Dome train then we thought
Randy Cook asked me to pass on some info to you all in regards to the Sound Transit extension through the dome district. It seems that this issue is not as complete as it seems. As we used to understand it (at least how I had worked it out...). Sound transit was stopped by the city and the local AIA SWW office for the time being and some of the AIA SWW proposals were being considered into the design.
Turns out there are a few more twists and turns to the story that may be provide a good opening for us to get involved with. It seems that the Dome District Association is not happy with the city proposals and is also upset with what it sees as the city trying to hurry the process along with out giving a voice to the Dome district. The dome district would like the city and sound transit to revise their outlook for the dome's master planning. The dome district is also not happy with the proposed solutions on the table for the transit extension, and the master planning that the city has done in the area.
In a letter campaign to the city, the dome district has been invited to sit at the table with the city and sound transit to try to work out the transit extention and master planning of the area. It is the dome associations intentions to get the city to slow the process and allow for time to get the dome area to get a working plan together for itself and propose its own alternatives to the city and sound transit. Their is a meeting at the city on August 5th Tuesday to accomplish this.
Why we should be involved...
Once the dome district association has gotten the city to hold back, they will need to put together some proposals to ammend the city's and sound transit's master plan. This process has just begun, and a workshop has been held to address some issues. The Dome District Association also has regular meetings on Thursday mornings on these topics, and they have asked for AIA support in defining a vision for what the Dome district could become.
Anyone up for it?
Turns out there are a few more twists and turns to the story that may be provide a good opening for us to get involved with. It seems that the Dome District Association is not happy with the city proposals and is also upset with what it sees as the city trying to hurry the process along with out giving a voice to the Dome district. The dome district would like the city and sound transit to revise their outlook for the dome's master planning. The dome district is also not happy with the proposed solutions on the table for the transit extension, and the master planning that the city has done in the area.
In a letter campaign to the city, the dome district has been invited to sit at the table with the city and sound transit to try to work out the transit extention and master planning of the area. It is the dome associations intentions to get the city to slow the process and allow for time to get the dome area to get a working plan together for itself and propose its own alternatives to the city and sound transit. Their is a meeting at the city on August 5th Tuesday to accomplish this.
Why we should be involved...
Once the dome district association has gotten the city to hold back, they will need to put together some proposals to ammend the city's and sound transit's master plan. This process has just begun, and a workshop has been held to address some issues. The Dome District Association also has regular meetings on Thursday mornings on these topics, and they have asked for AIA support in defining a vision for what the Dome district could become.
Anyone up for it?
8.01.2008
Round Table Meeting
So I just wanted to send out a thank you to all those whom attended Wednesday's meeting. The meeting went great, and it was nice to see that it is not just interns that are getting the short end of the stick when it comes to dealing with NCARB.
I think that we have gained some good allies in both Joe and Stan. They have offered to take any difficulties and complaints that we have and take them to the next levels via the NCARB and AIA levels. The one caviot that they gave was that any complaint be written down with as many names and dates as possible.
Overall we were assured that NCARB has been in a process of flux over the last year in a half in the purpose of fixing itself. Joe was able to give us some examples of staffing changes, and has said that the atmosphere in the D.C. office has changed. This was the reason he stated in the 49-1 vote of confidence for NCARB. It will be interesting to see the results in the future as they trickle down to our level. (Trickle down.....wasnt that a Reagon era policy?)
Anyways Joe and Stan have made themselves avalible to us for all of our gripes and are ready and willing to do something about it.
I think that we have gained some good allies in both Joe and Stan. They have offered to take any difficulties and complaints that we have and take them to the next levels via the NCARB and AIA levels. The one caviot that they gave was that any complaint be written down with as many names and dates as possible.
Overall we were assured that NCARB has been in a process of flux over the last year in a half in the purpose of fixing itself. Joe was able to give us some examples of staffing changes, and has said that the atmosphere in the D.C. office has changed. This was the reason he stated in the 49-1 vote of confidence for NCARB. It will be interesting to see the results in the future as they trickle down to our level. (Trickle down.....wasnt that a Reagon era policy?)
Anyways Joe and Stan have made themselves avalible to us for all of our gripes and are ready and willing to do something about it.
7.28.2008
Topics & Questions for the round table discussion
So I'll start with the topics & questions for the round table discussion...
- NCARB has a new Board of Directors for the fical year of 2009, who is the regional director now for the state of Washington?
- In regards to direct registration, how long is the trial period?
- Has a test group been identified for the survey?
- Will the results be public?
- NCARB has a new Board of Directors for the fical year of 2009, who is the regional director now for the state of Washington?
- In regards to direct registration, how long is the trial period?
- Has a test group been identified for the survey?
- Will the results be public?
7.24.2008
Wednesday's Gathering with Joe Vincent
I have invited Stan Bowman who is our lobbyist for WA State. He was pleased to be invited and will be attending the event.
Hope to see many of you there.
Kate
Hope to see many of you there.
Kate
7.23.2008
So everyone is just thinking of stuff to write ? Right?
I gave everyone a chance, so here's my thoughts on the state issue. At Face value it seems that the state just wants to do the logical thing and eliminate the extra steps it takes in doing things like reporting test scores, so instead of getting a grade from NCARB and a grade from the state at the same time after taking the ARE, you just get one pass rate from NCARB, and NCARB would let the state know when you are done. Which is about as much as I understand at this moment. At face value this seems very resonable, and if all things are fair and equal I think this is a reasonable step.
But things are not fair and equal when it comes to NCARB reporting something, like test completions and such. A quick browse through the ARE forums (@ www.AREForum.org ) would give you a lot of instant examples of many people that are issued a lisence from their respective states after ARE completion before NCARB has even updated the "test complete" status. When it comes to NCARB and reporting things I feel that the state could stand to do a far better job at reporting test completion, and until NCARB proves that it could actually report accuratly within a reasonable (3 to 6 weeks maybe?) I think the state needs to keep on doing what its doing.
What does everyone else think? What about the bigger picture? What do we discuss about our ongoing NCARB frustrations? Does Joe and the Department of Licensing see the same stuff that we do? or does NCARB just have a particular bane against interns only?
I gave everyone a chance, so here's my thoughts on the state issue. At Face value it seems that the state just wants to do the logical thing and eliminate the extra steps it takes in doing things like reporting test scores, so instead of getting a grade from NCARB and a grade from the state at the same time after taking the ARE, you just get one pass rate from NCARB, and NCARB would let the state know when you are done. Which is about as much as I understand at this moment. At face value this seems very resonable, and if all things are fair and equal I think this is a reasonable step.
But things are not fair and equal when it comes to NCARB reporting something, like test completions and such. A quick browse through the ARE forums (@ www.AREForum.org ) would give you a lot of instant examples of many people that are issued a lisence from their respective states after ARE completion before NCARB has even updated the "test complete" status. When it comes to NCARB and reporting things I feel that the state could stand to do a far better job at reporting test completion, and until NCARB proves that it could actually report accuratly within a reasonable (3 to 6 weeks maybe?) I think the state needs to keep on doing what its doing.
What does everyone else think? What about the bigger picture? What do we discuss about our ongoing NCARB frustrations? Does Joe and the Department of Licensing see the same stuff that we do? or does NCARB just have a particular bane against interns only?
7.21.2008
July 30th 5:30 Joe Vincent Round Table Discussion
In case you have not heard, the State of Washington is in negotiations to pass control of licensing procedure over to NCARB. Per conversations at the July 15th Emerging Leaders lunch, many of us have concerns over this announcement.
Joe Vincent, from the State, has said that the change over will pull the Board staff out of the exam management portion of an applicant’s licensing process. The decision was made in an effort to simplify the process for the applicant, facilitate more timely score reporting, and remove processes handled by Board staff where there was no demonstrated value added.
Many of us have stated this is eventually a good idea, but right now NCARB has not proven to us with the IDP process that they are prepared to take on this added responsibility.
With the help of James Mill, we have arranged for Joe Vincent, from the State, to come to Tacoma to participate in a round table discussion. This is a great chance for all of us to let the State know how we feel and to voice our concerns. They are very interested in hearing from us as young professionals. Joe is going to invite other Board members to the discussion.
Please post topics you would like to discuss on the blog page; this can include good and bad experiences with NCARB, the licensing process, etc. I would like to send Joe some comments before the round table.
This change will affect both those of us going through the IDP process as well as ARE exams.
At last week’s AIASWW board meeting I presented our concerns over the State/NCARB partnership, and our local chapter stands behind us. The Board recommended we write one letter that we all stand behind with both our signature and the boards’ president’s signature.
When: Wednesday July 30th, 5:30 pm
Where: McGranahan Architects 1st Floor Conference Room
Joe Vincent, from the State, has said that the change over will pull the Board staff out of the exam management portion of an applicant’s licensing process. The decision was made in an effort to simplify the process for the applicant, facilitate more timely score reporting, and remove processes handled by Board staff where there was no demonstrated value added.
Many of us have stated this is eventually a good idea, but right now NCARB has not proven to us with the IDP process that they are prepared to take on this added responsibility.
With the help of James Mill, we have arranged for Joe Vincent, from the State, to come to Tacoma to participate in a round table discussion. This is a great chance for all of us to let the State know how we feel and to voice our concerns. They are very interested in hearing from us as young professionals. Joe is going to invite other Board members to the discussion.
Please post topics you would like to discuss on the blog page; this can include good and bad experiences with NCARB, the licensing process, etc. I would like to send Joe some comments before the round table.
This change will affect both those of us going through the IDP process as well as ARE exams.
At last week’s AIASWW board meeting I presented our concerns over the State/NCARB partnership, and our local chapter stands behind us. The Board recommended we write one letter that we all stand behind with both our signature and the boards’ president’s signature.
When: Wednesday July 30th, 5:30 pm
Where: McGranahan Architects 1st Floor Conference Room
7.16.2008
NCARB the State and YOU
So from yesterday's meeting I was inspired to shoot Joe Vincent an email and try to get some concrete facts on what is exactly going on with the whole NCARB/DOL thing.
I got a great response back.....
Hello James.
Yes that was me at the Tacoma meeting, happy to be there and I look forward to future sessions. Speaking of which, your inquiry leads me to think perhaps a discussion is in order about our relationship/partnership with NCARB. I can only speculate that your question stems from the Boards recent decision to utilize NCARB’s direct registration process, which pulls the Board staff out of the exam management portion of an applicant’s licensing process. This decision was made in an effort to simplify the process for the applicant, facilitate more timely score reporting, and remove processes handled by Board staff where there was no demonstrated value added.
I recognize that these discussions and the ultimate decision to make the change where made without the direct input of those of you potentially affected. The Board is very interested in hearing from our emerging professionals on any topic and would encourage anyone to attend our open public Board meetings. We are also open to invitation to your gatherings for discussions – I’ll even come if no appetizers are served! (however, the last ones were quite tasty!)
The Board has no plans to consider moving any licensing responsibilities to NCARB and have undertaken the direct registration service on a trial basis and it is only available to applicants qualified with a NAAB degree. This might be a good opportunity for us to identify some of our interns that will be taking this path and get some feedback about their experience.
Please give me a call and we can discuss more and explore other areas of interest to your group and see if we can’t get together.
Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you.
Joe
So it sounds like they just are thinking of eliminating the middleman when the testing thing comes around. Sounds like Joe is more then willing to see what it is we have to say....
So what is it exactly that we want to say about this?
I got a great response back.....
Hello James.
Yes that was me at the Tacoma meeting, happy to be there and I look forward to future sessions. Speaking of which, your inquiry leads me to think perhaps a discussion is in order about our relationship/partnership with NCARB. I can only speculate that your question stems from the Boards recent decision to utilize NCARB’s direct registration process, which pulls the Board staff out of the exam management portion of an applicant’s licensing process. This decision was made in an effort to simplify the process for the applicant, facilitate more timely score reporting, and remove processes handled by Board staff where there was no demonstrated value added.
I recognize that these discussions and the ultimate decision to make the change where made without the direct input of those of you potentially affected. The Board is very interested in hearing from our emerging professionals on any topic and would encourage anyone to attend our open public Board meetings. We are also open to invitation to your gatherings for discussions – I’ll even come if no appetizers are served! (however, the last ones were quite tasty!)
The Board has no plans to consider moving any licensing responsibilities to NCARB and have undertaken the direct registration service on a trial basis and it is only available to applicants qualified with a NAAB degree. This might be a good opportunity for us to identify some of our interns that will be taking this path and get some feedback about their experience.
Please give me a call and we can discuss more and explore other areas of interest to your group and see if we can’t get together.
Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you.
Joe
So it sounds like they just are thinking of eliminating the middleman when the testing thing comes around. Sounds like Joe is more then willing to see what it is we have to say....
So what is it exactly that we want to say about this?
7.15.2008
Habitat Contruction Calendar @ Reynolds Park
July 19
Site managers - Carl Duester & Guy Nielsen
Pringle Family - Drywalling
Sanchez Family - Drains & Downspouts
Suarez Family - Interior Trim Painting
Howard Family - Drains & Downspouts
Nguyen Family - Rough Plumbing
July 26
Site managers - Carl Duester & Guy Nielsen
Pringle Family - Exterior Painting
Sanchez Family - Utilities
Suarez Family - Punchlist
Howard Family - Utilities
Nguyen Family - Drywalling
Site managers - Carl Duester & Guy Nielsen
Pringle Family - Drywalling
Sanchez Family - Drains & Downspouts
Suarez Family - Interior Trim Painting
Howard Family - Drains & Downspouts
Nguyen Family - Rough Plumbing
July 26
Site managers - Carl Duester & Guy Nielsen
Pringle Family - Exterior Painting
Sanchez Family - Utilities
Suarez Family - Punchlist
Howard Family - Utilities
Nguyen Family - Drywalling
7.14.2008
July 15th Meeting Agenda
Emerging Leaders Lunch
July 15, 2008; 12:00 pm
The Swiss
Discussion of Mission Statement:
“The Emerging Leaders Group was established by young intern architects of the AIA Southwest Chapter with an objective of individual development as well as preparing for future leadership roles in the architecture profession and community.”
Discussion of Goals:
- Promote involvement in the architecture profession and the community.
- A foundation for professional and educational development.
- Provide the resources and support for interns on the path to licensure.
Blog Site Discussion
• Has anyone visited the site? Thoughts? Is it working?
Announcements
AIASWW
• The 2nd annual Night at the Movies has been announced. It is a showing of the documentary Helvetica at the Blue Mouse Theater on July 30th at 6:00 pm. There will be a reception with beer and wine as well as a speaker who will discuss the significance of the Helvetica font.
NCARB
• 6 Month Rule passed. Ha to present.
Associates
• There is an ARE study session on July 24th which is a follow up for the Mechanical/Electrical lecture.
• The next ARE lecture is August 7th. The topic is Pre-Design, lecturers are Darren Dickerson and Joan Rumsey. Remember lectures and sessions are free to AIA members.
Architectural Tours
• Next tour is August 5th – the Pierce County Maintenance Facility Building
AIASWW Lunch and Learn Series
• Next lecture is July 17th given by Berger Partnership and the topic is Green Roofs.
• Free to AIA member, lunch is included, $10 to non members, 1 learning credit
Habitat for Humanity
• There is currently no scheduled work day for July. Is anyone interested in working either July 19th or 26th? August work day: 2nd? 9th? 16th? 23rd? 30th?
Summer Happy Hour
• August? Location?
Upcoming AIASWW events and volunteer opportunities
Great ways to earn IDP volunteer credits. You can volunteer the day of the event or to be on a committee.
• Honor Awards – contact Gerry Pless at TCF Architecture (gerry@tcfarchitecture.com)
• AIASWW Golf Tournament – September 5th at the Classic – contact Jerry Isaksen at Zenczak & Partners Architects (studio@zpaaia.com) & Cheryl Zoltak
• AIASWW Auction – November 21st at the Landmark Grand Ballroom – contact BZ Zenczak at Zenczak & Partners (studio@zpaaia.com), Randy Cook at TCF Architecture (randy@tcfarchitecture.com)
The Regional Director, Pat Onishi, will be visiting our area on July 16th. He will be at the AIASWW Board Meeting if anyone is interested in meeting him. This month’s meeting will begin at 4:30 pm. The scholarship winners will also be in attendance.
July 15, 2008; 12:00 pm
The Swiss
Discussion of Mission Statement:
“The Emerging Leaders Group was established by young intern architects of the AIA Southwest Chapter with an objective of individual development as well as preparing for future leadership roles in the architecture profession and community.”
Discussion of Goals:
- Promote involvement in the architecture profession and the community.
- A foundation for professional and educational development.
- Provide the resources and support for interns on the path to licensure.
Blog Site Discussion
• Has anyone visited the site? Thoughts? Is it working?
Announcements
AIASWW
• The 2nd annual Night at the Movies has been announced. It is a showing of the documentary Helvetica at the Blue Mouse Theater on July 30th at 6:00 pm. There will be a reception with beer and wine as well as a speaker who will discuss the significance of the Helvetica font.
NCARB
• 6 Month Rule passed. Ha to present.
Associates
• There is an ARE study session on July 24th which is a follow up for the Mechanical/Electrical lecture.
• The next ARE lecture is August 7th. The topic is Pre-Design, lecturers are Darren Dickerson and Joan Rumsey. Remember lectures and sessions are free to AIA members.
Architectural Tours
• Next tour is August 5th – the Pierce County Maintenance Facility Building
AIASWW Lunch and Learn Series
• Next lecture is July 17th given by Berger Partnership and the topic is Green Roofs.
• Free to AIA member, lunch is included, $10 to non members, 1 learning credit
Habitat for Humanity
• There is currently no scheduled work day for July. Is anyone interested in working either July 19th or 26th? August work day: 2nd? 9th? 16th? 23rd? 30th?
Summer Happy Hour
• August? Location?
Upcoming AIASWW events and volunteer opportunities
Great ways to earn IDP volunteer credits. You can volunteer the day of the event or to be on a committee.
• Honor Awards – contact Gerry Pless at TCF Architecture (gerry@tcfarchitecture.com)
• AIASWW Golf Tournament – September 5th at the Classic – contact Jerry Isaksen at Zenczak & Partners Architects (studio@zpaaia.com) & Cheryl Zoltak
• AIASWW Auction – November 21st at the Landmark Grand Ballroom – contact BZ Zenczak at Zenczak & Partners (studio@zpaaia.com), Randy Cook at TCF Architecture (randy@tcfarchitecture.com)
The Regional Director, Pat Onishi, will be visiting our area on July 16th. He will be at the AIASWW Board Meeting if anyone is interested in meeting him. This month’s meeting will begin at 4:30 pm. The scholarship winners will also be in attendance.
7.08.2008
Big Improvement
Hi everyone. I just wanted to send some kudos for switching to this site. I think it already looks much better. Now we just need to get some dialog going. I hope everyone had a great 4th.
7.07.2008
June 17th Meeting Notes
Below are the notes from the June 17th meeting. Please note the announcements and the call for volunteers. Our next meeting is 12:00 pm on July 15th at the Swiss. I will post the proposed agenda later this week. If there are topics you would like to discuss please let me know. You can email me or post to the blog.
Kate Burnham
kate.burnham@mcgranahan.com
Emerging Leaders Lunch
June 17, 2008; 12:00 pm
Harmon Brewery
Overview of Mission Statement:
“The Emerging Leaders Group was established by young intern architects of the AIA Southwest Chapter with an objective of individual development as well as preparing for future leadership roles in the architecture profession and community.”
Overview of Goals:
- Promote involvement in the architecture profession and the community.
- A foundation for professional and educational development.
- Provide the resources and support for interns on the path to licensure.
About to have our first anniversary
Emerging Leaders Activities to Date – something to be proud of
Associates Introduction Event July 17, 2007
Received Emerging Professional Component Grant
Panel discussion in DC at the 2008 Grassroots Legislative and Leadership Conference
AIA Circle of Membership Webinar in May where the ARE program was discussed
Lunch meetings monthly
Happy Hour at El Toro
ARE Lecture/Study Sessions
Habitat for Humanity
Architectural Tours
Associates 1st Annual Social Event April 30th at Theatre on the Square
ELG Identity Logo
Blog Site introduction/elimination of the Google Group
The blog site is http://swwelg.blogspot.com/
The site will officially be published July 1st in the AIASWW Bits and Pieces
The site posts the group’s Mission Statement, Goals, a Calendar, and blog/email postings.
We are still adding information to the site as well as moving postings and contacts from the Google Groups site.
Benefits: the new site is more user friendly, non members can access the site, anyone can post to the site.
Disadvantage: you have to take the initiative to check the site because it will not notify you when new postings are made.
Introduction of the Emerging Leaders Logo
Announcements
AIASWW
AIASWW made a presentation to Tacoma’s Planning Commission concerning the Design Review in Mixed-Use Centers on May 7th. A public hearing will be June 18 at 5:00 pm, at Council Chambers, 1st floor, Tacoma Municipal Building. The agenda includes Mixed-use Centers Code Revisions; Annual Amendment Applications for the Open Space Plan, South Tacoma Manufacturing/Industrial Center, and Residential Regulations; Downtown Plan and Code Update; and Public Hearing for Landmarks and Historic Special Review District Regulations. This is a good opportunity for anyone interested in being a part of influencing code.
There were 4 applications for AIASWW scholarships. 3 scholarships were granted this year to graduating high school students. No students currently enrolled at UW or WSU applied. Money was raised 1 ½ years ago at the last AIASWW Auction.
AIASWW is about to launch its new website. A link to our new blog site will also be on the website.
AIA Statewide
Patricia Shelby is Washington’s IDP Coordinator. Right now, there are talks to have one coordinator per region, NW Washington, SW Washington, and Eastern Washington. Patricia would then oversee the three coordinators.
Washington has relinquished its control of the licensing process to NCARB. This would include tracking each person’s progress. Will eliminate staffing need at State level, reduce paperwork, and eliminate the need to submit paperwork twice (to NCARB and the State). The downside is that NCARB must be more organized and responsible. They recently had a staffing change over. Associate’s paperwork have been lost. The State would then be notified by NCARB when an intern completes all tests and is ready to have their license issued.
NCARB
Don’t forget NCARB is trying to pass a 6 month rule where an intern cannot log hours that they worked more than 6 month earlier. Right now, this rule will take effect July 2009. Log your hours!
Associates
The Associate’s Social was a success. We had many Board Members attend as well as Associates. Financially we were down around $167, which the AIASWW absorbed with funds generated from the ARE study sessions. Next year the thought is to open the social up to all AIASWW members.
The ARE study sessions have been a great success. Typically lectures are the first Thursday of the month, and the informal study sessions are the third Thursday. July’s lecture an abnormality. It is the 10th which is the second Wednesday of the month and the study session is Thursday the 24th. Lectures and sessions are free to AIA members.
Architectural Tours
Next tour is July 1st (Theatre Underground)
August is to Pierce County Maintenance Building
September through end of year tentative. Mike Slater and John Denton are looking for suggestions.
AIASWW Lunch and Learn Series
Lunch hour, third Thursday of every month
Will post schedule on new blog site
Free to AIA member, lunch is included
$10 to non members
1 learning credit
Habitat for Humanity
June 28, 2008 is the first work day this year. Required release forms can be posted on the new blog site.
Plans for Habitat for Humanity work parties for July, August, and September (one Saturday per month, unless there is interest in adding more days)
We are still waiting for the July work days to be published. We will send out a notice as soon as we have more information.
Summer Happy Hour
Ideas for happy hour location?
Would anyone attend?
Discussion topics? Or just social hour?
Upcoming AIASWW events and volunteer opportunities
Great ways to earn IDP volunteer credits. You can volunteer the day of the event or to be on a committee.
Honor Awards – contact Gerry Pless at TCF Architecture (gerry@tcfarchitecture.com)
AIASWW Golf Tournament – September 5th at the Classic – contact Jerry Isaksen at Zenczak & Partners Architects (studio@zpaaia.com) & Cheryl Zoltak
AIASWW Auction – November 21st at the Landmark Grand Ballroom – contact BZ Zenczak at Zenczak & Partners (studio@zpaaia.com), Randy Cook at TCF Architecture (randy@tcfarchitecture.com)
Lifecycle Building Challenge Competition
www.lifecyclebuilding.org This is a competition to shape the future of green building and facilitate local building materials reuse. They are looking for submissions of innovative projects, design, or ideas for reducing to conserve construction and demolition materials and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by designing buildings for adaptability and disassembly.
The ARE 4.0 format begins next month. There is now information on NCARB’s website.
Kate Burnham
kate.burnham@mcgranahan.com
Emerging Leaders Lunch
June 17, 2008; 12:00 pm
Harmon Brewery
Overview of Mission Statement:
“The Emerging Leaders Group was established by young intern architects of the AIA Southwest Chapter with an objective of individual development as well as preparing for future leadership roles in the architecture profession and community.”
Overview of Goals:
- Promote involvement in the architecture profession and the community.
- A foundation for professional and educational development.
- Provide the resources and support for interns on the path to licensure.
About to have our first anniversary
Emerging Leaders Activities to Date – something to be proud of
Associates Introduction Event July 17, 2007
Received Emerging Professional Component Grant
Panel discussion in DC at the 2008 Grassroots Legislative and Leadership Conference
AIA Circle of Membership Webinar in May where the ARE program was discussed
Lunch meetings monthly
Happy Hour at El Toro
ARE Lecture/Study Sessions
Habitat for Humanity
Architectural Tours
Associates 1st Annual Social Event April 30th at Theatre on the Square
ELG Identity Logo
Blog Site introduction/elimination of the Google Group
The blog site is http://swwelg.blogspot.com/
The site will officially be published July 1st in the AIASWW Bits and Pieces
The site posts the group’s Mission Statement, Goals, a Calendar, and blog/email postings.
We are still adding information to the site as well as moving postings and contacts from the Google Groups site.
Benefits: the new site is more user friendly, non members can access the site, anyone can post to the site.
Disadvantage: you have to take the initiative to check the site because it will not notify you when new postings are made.
Introduction of the Emerging Leaders Logo
Announcements
AIASWW
AIASWW made a presentation to Tacoma’s Planning Commission concerning the Design Review in Mixed-Use Centers on May 7th. A public hearing will be June 18 at 5:00 pm, at Council Chambers, 1st floor, Tacoma Municipal Building. The agenda includes Mixed-use Centers Code Revisions; Annual Amendment Applications for the Open Space Plan, South Tacoma Manufacturing/Industrial Center, and Residential Regulations; Downtown Plan and Code Update; and Public Hearing for Landmarks and Historic Special Review District Regulations. This is a good opportunity for anyone interested in being a part of influencing code.
There were 4 applications for AIASWW scholarships. 3 scholarships were granted this year to graduating high school students. No students currently enrolled at UW or WSU applied. Money was raised 1 ½ years ago at the last AIASWW Auction.
AIASWW is about to launch its new website. A link to our new blog site will also be on the website.
AIA Statewide
Patricia Shelby is Washington’s IDP Coordinator. Right now, there are talks to have one coordinator per region, NW Washington, SW Washington, and Eastern Washington. Patricia would then oversee the three coordinators.
Washington has relinquished its control of the licensing process to NCARB. This would include tracking each person’s progress. Will eliminate staffing need at State level, reduce paperwork, and eliminate the need to submit paperwork twice (to NCARB and the State). The downside is that NCARB must be more organized and responsible. They recently had a staffing change over. Associate’s paperwork have been lost. The State would then be notified by NCARB when an intern completes all tests and is ready to have their license issued.
NCARB
Don’t forget NCARB is trying to pass a 6 month rule where an intern cannot log hours that they worked more than 6 month earlier. Right now, this rule will take effect July 2009. Log your hours!
Associates
The Associate’s Social was a success. We had many Board Members attend as well as Associates. Financially we were down around $167, which the AIASWW absorbed with funds generated from the ARE study sessions. Next year the thought is to open the social up to all AIASWW members.
The ARE study sessions have been a great success. Typically lectures are the first Thursday of the month, and the informal study sessions are the third Thursday. July’s lecture an abnormality. It is the 10th which is the second Wednesday of the month and the study session is Thursday the 24th. Lectures and sessions are free to AIA members.
Architectural Tours
Next tour is July 1st (Theatre Underground)
August is to Pierce County Maintenance Building
September through end of year tentative. Mike Slater and John Denton are looking for suggestions.
AIASWW Lunch and Learn Series
Lunch hour, third Thursday of every month
Will post schedule on new blog site
Free to AIA member, lunch is included
$10 to non members
1 learning credit
Habitat for Humanity
June 28, 2008 is the first work day this year. Required release forms can be posted on the new blog site.
Plans for Habitat for Humanity work parties for July, August, and September (one Saturday per month, unless there is interest in adding more days)
We are still waiting for the July work days to be published. We will send out a notice as soon as we have more information.
Summer Happy Hour
Ideas for happy hour location?
Would anyone attend?
Discussion topics? Or just social hour?
Upcoming AIASWW events and volunteer opportunities
Great ways to earn IDP volunteer credits. You can volunteer the day of the event or to be on a committee.
Honor Awards – contact Gerry Pless at TCF Architecture (gerry@tcfarchitecture.com)
AIASWW Golf Tournament – September 5th at the Classic – contact Jerry Isaksen at Zenczak & Partners Architects (studio@zpaaia.com) & Cheryl Zoltak
AIASWW Auction – November 21st at the Landmark Grand Ballroom – contact BZ Zenczak at Zenczak & Partners (studio@zpaaia.com), Randy Cook at TCF Architecture (randy@tcfarchitecture.com)
Lifecycle Building Challenge Competition
www.lifecyclebuilding.org This is a competition to shape the future of green building and facilitate local building materials reuse. They are looking for submissions of innovative projects, design, or ideas for reducing to conserve construction and demolition materials and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by designing buildings for adaptability and disassembly.
The ARE 4.0 format begins next month. There is now information on NCARB’s website.
6.25.2008
NCARB "6-month" rule
Hello Associates,
I’m sure all of you are aware that NCARB is planning to pass the “6-month rule” resolution. This is a recent regulation that requires interns to submit training units at 6-months increment. This means that any unit hours recorded that are before or after the 6-month window will not be admitted. This is an obvious problem for those who have not registered with NCARB for IDP. You will be face with the risk of losing training hours as well as the possibility of miscellaneous fees on the basis of late registration.
You should all know that you have full support from the Southwest Washington Chapter, the Washington council, and the Washington State Board for Architects. Even AIA National has taken a position of opposing the 6-month rule. There has been recent correspondence between AIA President Marshall Purnell, FAIA and NCARB on the issue (please see pdfs attached).
NCARB will be discussing this issue at their annual meeting coming up on June 25th. As a stakeholder, you have a voice in the matter. You can make a difference by taking a stand on what you think should be the right direction. I am asking you to show your support simply by putting your names along with the other interns to show NCARB the number of people opposing this resolution. Please email to aiasww.elg@gmail.com with a simple statement that you opposed the resolution.
Regards,
Ha Pham, Assoc. AIA
AIA Southwest Washington Chapter
6.16.2008
Emerging Leaders Lunch Gathering Tuesday June 17th
Hello to all Emerging Leaders!
June’s lunch gathering is tomorrow, Tuesday June 17th at the Harmon Brewery, at noon.
Here are some planned discussion items:
§ Emerging Leaders activities to date
§ Blog site introduction/elimination of the Google Group
§ Introducing the Emerging Leaders Logo!
§ Announcements relating to IDF, NCARB, WA State, licensing, testing
§ A decision made at the Boston Conference affecting Interns
§ Architectural Tours
§ Habitat for Humanity
§ Summer Happy Hour(s)
§ Upcoming AIASWW events – volunteer opportunities (a good way to fill those IDP volunteer hours!)
§ Notes from the last AIASWW Executive Board Meeting
Please let me know if you have anything else you’d like covered or discussed.
If you haven’t attended a lunch in some time, tomorrow could be a good time to catch up on the happenings since we will be touching on many issues.
We are also transferring contact information from the Google Group website to the new blog site. Please make sure you information is correct, and let others know they should sign up if they haven’t already.
Thanks,
Kate Burnham
McGranahan Architects
6.13.2008
6.12.2008
Next Tour
All,
A flyer is on its way for the next tour. For the meantime, please pencil in July 1 for "Theatre Undergrond" tour. This tour will be lead by Gene Grulich and will encompass parts of the Pantages, Rialto and Brodway center. This is a very special tour, so Please RSVP with Cheryl.
JD
June Lunch
Hi everybody,
Don't forget our monthly lunch for June. We'll meet at the Harmon this time. It's at noon on June 17th. Here's their website. http://harmonbrewingco.com/ If any of you has any other places you'd like to try, let me know.
We'll have some stuff to talk about like the Habitat for Humanity activity coming up or if there's any other architectural tours coming up.
So hope to see everyone there.
5.21.2008
May Mtg Minutes
So here's what I have so far from our meeting at the Swiss. Thea Foss masterplan/ Southwest Washington Fairgrounds Welcome Center w/ Twin Cities Rotary Club
- Since there are not a lot of people interested not to mention busy, we won't be doing these two design activities.
Logo
- Thanks to Chauncey who has done a great job with the logo, we came to a final decision on the group's logo over lunch. He had posted the final cut with two various version.
AIA Golf Tournament
- The AIA is still looking for associates to volunteer for game day. If anybody's interested, email to a...@aiasww.org.
Google Group Website
- I know several people have had problems with accessing the Google Group website as well as receiving notification emails on time. So with that said, our group will; be moving onto the e blog website. It's also by Google but is a lot more user friendly. The only drawback here is that there won't be email alerts sending out with every new posts. We'll have to find a way to do that or continue with this website. I am still testing this out so I'll post the site as soon as I'm done.
Habitat for Humanity
- A few people have asked when this is starting up again. So I am going to post the schedule for June, if anyone would like to join us for a Saturday. We've done it once a month before so we can continue with this. The location is the same as last year at Reynolds Park at 48th St. & East N St. Tacoma, WA 98404. It's a house for the Suarez family. Right now, they're looking for volunteers to help with interior doors and trim. If you are new to this volunteering activity this year, please let me know. There are a few paperwork that you need to fill out before you can join us. This is for liability issues. So there's one for June 28th. You have to be at the site by 9am at the latest, get a little safety orientation. Then a site manager to assign tasks and responsibilities. There's a lunch break at noon. They've provided lunch and snacks the last time we went but typically you have to bring your own lunch. Then work till 3pm, clean up afterwards.
June Meeting
- Next meeting is on June 17th at noon. If anybody has any places they'd like to try out, let me know.
5.20.2008
Emerging Leaders Logo
Here it is, changed per our meeting at the Swiss. Two versions, one with original lowercase "L" and revised capital "L". http://chauncey.drinon.googlepages.com/FinalLogo.jpg
May Meeting
Hi Everybody,
Don't forget our May lunch meeting today at noon. We'll be meeting at the Swiss. Here's the link, http://www.theswisspub.com/
Here are a few things we'll be going over. These are items from the last email I sent, if there's any activities or events you'd like to add, bring it along with you to the meeting.
- Update on Thea Foss masterplan (Ben/JR)
- Logo for the group (If you haven't had a chance to look at them, the logos are in the files. We'll be narrowing down a few choices and make a decision if not then at least comments)
- Architectural Tour (Jon)
- AIA Golf Tournament (volunteers or players)
- Southwest Washington Fairgrounds Welcome Center w/ Twin Cities Rotary Club.
See you all there.
5.14.2008
5.08.2008
May Lunch Meeting
Hi everybody,
I want to remind you all of our May lunch meeting coming up on Tuesday, May 20th at noon. We'll be meeting at the Swiss this time. Here's the link, http://www.theswisspub.com/ Here are a few things we'll be going to go over. This is a long email so bear with me.
- Update on Thea Foss masterplan (Ben/JR)
- Logo for the group (If you haven't had a chance to look at them, the logos are in the files. We'll be narrowing down a few choices and make a decision if not then at least comments)
- Architectural Tour (Jon)
- AIA Golf Tournament (volunteers or players)
- Southwest Washington Fairgrounds w/ Twin Cities Rotary Club.
The last item is a new proposed project that recently came up. For those who had a chance to meet with Stan Bowman of the WA Council. He's with the Twin Cities Rotary Club and have proposed a project that the associates can help them with. Below is a partial of his email about the project. This would consider to be a design-build project that will require a quick turn around since the fair is in August. If anyone's interested, let me know. I will be taking volunteers up until the lunch on the 20th to determine if we have enough people to do this. They're asking for design help with some construction time. So if we do this, design should start and finish within 2 weeks, at the most 3 to allow sufficient time for construction.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
As you know the rebuilding of Lewis County is continuing to recover from the flooding of last December. I am a member of the Twin Cities Rotary Club. The club has taken on projects at the Southwest Washington Fairgrounds in Centralia. As you will recall there was upwards of 15 feet of water in the fairgrounds and some structures were destroyed. The Rotary Club has already constructed 40 heavy duty flower boxes.
The next project that my Rotary Club is working on is the construction of a small gazebo that will serve as a greeting center on the Fairgrounds. We are in the planning process for it now. I’m writing to see if the AIA SW WA, specifically the associates committee, would be interested in assisting with the project. We could use the design expertise on the project and it is small enough that it does not require a licensed architect.
When asked about design support, it seems a good hands-on project for our younger members who are so eager to be involved. I would not expect that it would take much time to complete the project. You could have a small committee work on the design and hopefully complete it without too much effort. Also, we would hope to have a few hands available when the construction takes place. Likely, we will try to do the construction in a single weekend. The Fair is supplying all of the materials. The Rotary Club is supplying the labor.
The fair is in August and we would hope to have the project completed in June or July (well before it starts).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See you at the Swiss!!
5.01.2008
Associates Social Event Pics
Here is a link to the rest of the photos from the Associates Social last night:
http://litratobylorie.com/2008-0430-aia/
LORIE COLE
PROJECT MANAGER
ARCHITECTURE
C 253.988.3702
4.24.2008
Associates Social Event
Hi Everyone,
I wanted to remind everyone of the 1st annual Associates Social Event on Wednesday April 30th 5:30-8:30pm. If you haven't RSVP already, PLEASE do so to Cheryl at a...@aiasww.org. She needs to know by Monday April 28th so that we can plan and make sure there's enough food for everyone.
Also, I just got confirmation that Joe Vincent, the WA state licensing board director and Stan Bowman, the executive director for the WA council will be attending at this event. This is a perfect chance for you to meet with them and ask any questions. I hope to see you all there.
Ben, I don't have a lot of BLRB people on the email list. Could you forward this to everybody in your office?
4.23.2008
NCARB
Hi All,
I don't know if any of you remember an email I sent awhile back asking if anyone is still waiting on NCARB for testing. I had a handful in that situation which I had forward along to see if there's anything that can be done. I know for a fact there are a number of you still having problems with NCARB, especially the way they maintain your records. Well, it seems that NCARB will now finally listen to what we have to say, but we need to have concrete examples to make a case. The WA interns right now has the support of the AIA SWW Chapter and the AIA WA council to present this to NCARB. However, I need you all to contribute your voices to make this a strong case.
So I'm asking you to please let me know ANY problems that you have encountered with NCARB (my email's below). The problems can be IDP or ARE related or the quality of customer service or even the multiple fees we have to pay. You could even voice your concern about the new "six-month rule" that's about to be implemented. We can stop this rule from going into effect if there are enough oppositions.
Also, don't forget our 1st annual Associates Social Event on Wednesday April 30th, 5:30-8:30pm at Theatre on the Square. Bring a friend or two or three!
4.16.2008
April Mtg Minutes
Hi all,
Apparently there are a few people who did not know about the Associates Social Event coming up. It was mentioned at last month's meeting but I want to further clarify this and make this the official announcement.
We have an Emerging Leaders Social Event scheduled for Wednesday, April 30th from 5:30-8:30pm. The location is at Theatre on the Square. A cover charge of $5/AIA member, $10/non-AIA member will be applied at the door. There will be a cash bar (you pay for your own drinks). the event will be catered by Dean Allen. We have some people who have volunteered their time to help plan this event. The group comprise of me, Dion Serra, Marianne Wombacher, Chauncey Drinon and Hope Gordon. Anybody who would be interested in helping out or simply want to come to one of our planning meeting, you are welcome to. We're meeting this Thursday at Abellas at noon. Also, we are still in need of volunteers for the day of the event so if anyone who would like to help.
The purpose of this event is to introduce all the interns within downtown Tacoma firms. It's also a chance to get more interns from other areas like Lakewood, Puyallup, Olympia, etc. involve. Our luncheons have been great but we have so many activities going on that we could involve interns from other areas as well. Another reason for this event is to introduce the interns to the Executive Board members of this chapter. I'm pretty sure a lot of you don't know who they are. This is a chance for you to meet with them and voice your opinions, concerns, suggestions, etc.
I hope this is clear for everyone. As I've mentioned before, the images for logo design is in the "files" link to the right of the page. The link to the Google Group Website is below.
4.15.2008
April Mtg Today
Hi Everyone,
Don't forget our monthly lunch meeting is today!!! It's at the Varsity at noon. Here's the website, http://www.varsitygrill.com/index.php
Below is the agenda for the meeting
- Google Group Website
- Architectural Tours (Jon)
- Thea Foss Master Plan (Ben & JR)
- Unveiling of the group's logo
- Associates Happy Hour Event, April 30th
- Future events (habitat, high school mentorship, etc)
I've also uploaded a position paper from the AIA SWW chapter that was recently sent to the city of Tacoma on the development standards for mixed use centers. Have a look at it. All are welcome to post your comments or opinions on this website or you could forward them to the AIA chapter at a...@aiasww.org.
4.09.2008
April Lunch Meeting
Hi Everyone,
Don't forget our lunch meeting next Tues, April 15th noon at the Varsity Grill. Here's their website, http://www.varsitygrill.com/index.php, check out the menu beforehand. I know we didn't have time to eat really since there were so many people and we had a lot on the agenda.
Here's the agenda for the next meeting.
- Google Group Website
- Architectural Tours (Jon)
- Thea Foss Master Plan (Ben & JR)
- Unveiling of the group's logo
- Associates Happy Hour Event, April 30th
- Future events (habitat, high school mentorship, etc)
There's a lot of stuff going on for anyone who would like to participate/volunteer. See you all there. Bring a friend or two or three!!!
4.08.2008
4.01.2008
Upcoming Love Tacoma event - pub crawl April 19th
URBAN PUB CRAWL
April 19th at 4:00 PM
Begins at Alfred's Cafe (402 Puyallup Ave, Tacoma)
Your Love Tacoma grassroots committee dares you to save the date of April 19 for a pub crawl unlike any other that you've ever seen or been on.
We'll first convene at 4 p.m. at Alfred's Café and Bubble Room, 402 Puyallup Ave. After lively libations and conversations, our entire gang will hop on the LINK light rail for an urban pub crawl that will include a visit to watering holes at each stop along the LINK route.
This Love Tacoma event is likely to attract at least 60 individuals who will create commerce at some of downtown Tacoma's finest locally- owned establishments. All of you lovers will be greeted with open arms at the following restaurants that we'll visit in this order: The Harmon, The Pacific Grill, Paddy Coyne's and Meconi's.
Outside of this one-time Love Tacoma event, Link and Drink gatherings also occur at least three times a year in downtown Tacoma with 50-plus participants. The original Link and Drink began three years ago as a guerilla economic development movement coordinated by involved citizens and artists to bring life to the downtown core and promote the use of the LINK.
You'll get a sampling of how great the Link and Drink can be through Love Tacoma's April 19 event, and then connect with the on-going gatherings by visiting www.myspace.com/linkndrink.
Attendees are encouraged to appoint a designated driver or take a cab to and from this function. Drivers will find excellent parking accommodations within the Tacoma Dome Station parking garage. The last LINK run of the night will head back to the Tacoma Dome garage at 10:10 p.m.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring a stash of cash for some food and beverages, and show up on April 19 to have a blast amongst Tacoma's vibrant downtown, mass transit and friendly faces.
For more information, visit www.lovetacoma.com, be sure to add us as your friend on www.myspace.com/lovetacoma or contact Roxanne Murphy, a true Tacoma lover, at roxa...@creativetacoma.com.
3.31.2008
Thea Foss Waterway - proposed project timeline
Please read this and see what JR and I are proposing. This will not move forward unless enough of us are interested in taking part. Please send JR and I suggestions on what you think and how we can improve it. Anyone that wants to be a part of it please email JR and myself.
J.R. Mills - J...@tcfarchitecture.com
Ben Ferguson - bfergu...@blrb.com
Long Term Vision: A Vital Thea Foss Waterway
Short Term Goals: Act as catalyst to prior planning work to spur new
activity
Enable AIA Emerging Leaders to wield passion and showcase collective
and individual talent
Project Milestone Schedule:
Programming Phase:
Collection of relevant data in preparation of design charette
Ie. Zoning, Land Ownership, Prior Planning Studies,
Identify Usable Structures, Identify Demo Structures,
Identify Vacant Land, Discover Interesting Site Elements
4 Weeks 3/25/08 - 4/15/08
Identify stakeholders / invitation to speak to design group
4 Weeks 3/25/08 - 4/15/08 Identify / Invite
Programming Design Meeting with Stakeholders
+/- 2 Hours
Values: Listen to past experience
Learn from past mistakes
Identify opportunities to surpass prior plans
Augment existing planning, not replace
2 Weeks 4/22/08 Design Meeting
Produce report on findings
Simple, Short & Concise
Graphically Presented
Opportunities and Constraints
3 Weeks 5/13/08
Master Planning Design Charette (Meta Level):
Pre-Design Charette 1 Week 5/17/08
+/- 6 Hours
Pick Facilitator(s)
Big Idea Brainstorming
Lock-In Big Idea Design Direction
Group/Individual Development of Site
Group Discussion - Set Direction for Site
End Meeting - Allow design to steep
Personal development and exploration
Design Charette 2 Weeks 5/31/08
+/- 6 Hours
Pick Promotion & Implementation Leaders
Revisit Design Themes
Group Discussion - Finalize Themes
Group/Individual Development of Site
Decide on Use Types and Locations
Group Discussion - Finalize Design
Group Production of Final Design
Individual Site / Project Design (Micro Level):
Site and Project Selection 1 1/2 Weeks 6/10/08
Individuals or Groups pick Projects
Conceptual Design 3 Weeks 7/1/08
Presentation of Conceptual Work 7/1/08
Develop Design 3 Weeks 7/22/08
Presentation of Design Progress 7/22/08
Finalize Design 3 Weeks 8/12/08
Final Internal Design Presentation 8/19/08
AIA Emerging Leaders Group
AIA Licensed
Leadership of Represented Firms
Interested Architectural Professionals
Produce Promotional Materials 2 Weeks 9/2/08
Promotion and Implementation:
Develop P&I Plan 2 weeks 6/10/08
Recruit P&I Team 2 weeks 6/10/08
Implement P&I Plan 10 weeks 8/19/08
Find gallery home to showcase
Identify press opportunities
Develop promotional materials
Develop stakeholder buy-in plan
Develop elected leader lobbying plan
Unveil Project to Public 2 weeks 9/2/08
Lobby and Inspire Community until realized...
Thea Foss Waterway - design team opportunities
At the last EL lunch on March 18th J.R. (from TCF) and myself committed to putting together an outline of what we were envisioning for the Thea Foss Waterway project. This post is a follow up on that promise.
We are proposing that the AIA Emerging Leaders Group take on a design project that will take incremental steps over the Spring and Summer (later if needed) that will lead us to a 'next-step' in the development of the Thea Foss Waterway into a vital part of our city.
We are not proposing that we disregard the prior efforts that have been taken towards this goal. We are taking a fresh look at the Foss with an understanding of where we are today, where the initial plan wanted to go and incorporate the changes that have affected our urban landscape.
We will focus much of our attention on the south end and east side of the waterway. We will consider how pedestrian linkages will happen, what kinds of uses are appropriate in these areas, what kind of amenities the city needs (maybe an open air market, affordable artist workspaces, funky/artsy retail or something like Pike Place or Granville Island in Vancouver BC). We will discuss how to respect our major neighbor, the Port of Tacoma, and the working maritime nature of the site. We will debate the preservation and infilling of industrial land.
We need people to read the information I will post next and to provide us feedback. This outline is not cast in stone, it is a place to begin. We all get to shape this. This is every one of our opportunity to design something and showcase what we are capable of. Show off your passion and abilities and use this as a springboard in your career.
3.25.2008
Seattle Green Festivals
Hi all,
There is a green festival in Seattle coming up in April featuring lots of green products and services. Here's the website http://www.greenfestivals.org/content/view/767/390/
Show Hours
Saturday 10AM - 8PM
Sunday 11AM - 6PM
Venue Name and Address
Washington State Convention & Trade Center
800 Convention Place
Seattle, WA
If anyone would like to go, I have a bunch of cards that can get 2 in for the price of 1. Let me know and I can forward them. I believe the cost is $15 for one day or the whole weekend. $10 for students/ seniors, etc.
Also... Better World Books and Green Festival are partnering to offer $5 off Green Festival admission to attendees who bring in 3 or more books. Your donated books will be sold on BetterWorld.com to help fund girls' scholarships in developing countries in Asia through Room to Read. www.roomtoread.org
PS. Also, reminder of the deadline for the flyer/postcard and logo due at the end of the day tomorrow. All of the images sent in to me so far is on in the files link. You can check them out there. There'll be more posted come tomorrow.
3.21.2008
Flyer/postcard and logo design
Hi Everyone,
So here are more information for you to incorporate in your design. We're looking for a flyer/postcard design for the happy hour event and a logo for our group. The last day to submit the two designs is
Wednesday, March 26th at the end of the day. We'll announce a winner for each category on Thursday. There is a prize for this, a winner gets to pick between free cover or free drink ticket to the associates happy hour event. So get your design mind going and be sure to send it to me at htph...@hotmail.com before Wednesday's over.
For the Associates Happy Hour Event:
The venue is at Theatre on the Square located on 905 Broadway Tacoma, WA 98402 from 5:30pm-8:30pm . Tickets for the event is $5 for AIA members, $10 for non-AIA members. There will be Hor'Dourves and no-host bar
For the Logo, there's no restrictions so be free. There's a mission statement for the group from the previous email I've sent out.
Please feel free to forward this to anyone you know who would like to participate but not on this email list.
3.19.2008
March meeting minutes
Hi Everyone,
Thank you all for coming out yesterday. It was great to see so many familiar faces and I'd like to welcome all the new faces. I think it was our biggest turn out this time. We have a lot of exciting events coming up and interesting ideas exchanged during the lunch that I think has started to show that our group is coming together as one. So let's keep this momentum going. I have listed some of the items on the agenda that we went over during the lunch. Let me know if I've missed anything or if you have anything you'd like to add, we could go over them at the next meeting.
Architectural Tour
Jon Denton has been coordinating with the AIA Continuing Education Committee on building tours. The most recent one was of Wilson High School. There are two more tours coming up, one at Clover Park T.C. Student Center on April 8th and one at Stadium High School on May 6th. We hope to see everyone there, so mark your calendars!! Also let us know if you have any buildings in mind that you would like to see.
Associates Happy Hour
We have a BIG event coming up for the end of April that hopefully will become an annual event for our group. This event will be for all of the interns to get together and socialize. This is a chance for you to get to know your peers. You'll also have a chance to meet all the AIA Executive Board members and other AIA members of the chapter. The event is in the planning process with help from Dion, Marianne and Chauncey. So if anybody would like to help with the planning, please let me know. We also will be needing help for set up and take down on the day of the event, so if you would be able to volunteer some time let me know as well.
Event flyer/postcard
With that said about the happy hour event, we'd like to invite everyone to participate in a little graphic design competition. We need a flyer/postcard design for our happy hour event. There are no restrictions here so you're free to do anything. The image that we want to convey for our group with this event is that we're a young, hip and urban. Here is the group's mission and purpose statement.
"The Emerging Leaders Group was established by young intern architects of the AIA Southwest Chapter with an objective of individual development as well as preparing for future leadership roles in the architecture profession and community"
Group Identity
Our group has grown to a point that we need an identity to represent us. So we'd like to invite everyone who would like to participate and provide us with your own interpretation of the image for our group. There are no restrictions or limitations for this logo. See above for the group's mission and purpose statement. If you have any questions please contact Dion Serra at dion.se...@mcgranahan.com
Google Group Website
This website was created to allow for open communication among each other. We have been using this for some time as a way to let everyone know about upcoming events and our monthly lunch meetings. Please use this as a mean to communicate your ideas, comments, and/or suggestions to the group. The group would be able to come together and socialize at more events if we know about it. So, if you know of any events/ lecture around the community, post it on the website to let everyone know. Also, if you know of anyone who would like to be included in the members list, let Dion or I know and we'll be able to add them in the email lists.
Habitat for Humanity
We're starting up our group's outing events again. We had a really good turn out last August working on roof framing on a house in Reynolds Park. It'll be a once a month event on a Saturday. I'm thinking to start it up in June or so. There'll be more information coming once we get closer to the day, I will be sending out forms that you will need to sign and return if you're a first timer to the group and also information on the location and house we'll be working on.
Thea Foss Master Plan
(David Boe of the parks department has done a master plan but it is not included in this) Ben Ferguson and J.R. Mill will be heading up the event that will get us together for a design charrette on the Thea Foss Master Plan. The current design and development plan is currently on the Google Group Website for you to look at. You can get to it through the files link to the right of the page. They will provide us with more information once things get started. If you would have any questions for the guys, you can contact them at j...@tcfarchitecture.com (JR), bfergu...@blrb.com (Ben).
High School Mentorship Program
This is going to be a new program that is going to connect our group with potential future architects. If you would like to be a mentor to young minds please contact Dion. Though the program is still in the early stage, we'd like to know who would be interested in participating.
ARE Study Session
There is a free ARE study session for those who are studying for the exams on Thursday, March 20th from 5:30-7:30pm. The session will take place in the conference room next to the AIA office at 1201 Pacific Ave, Suite C4. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Joan Rumsey at joan.rum...@mcgranahan.com
April Meeting
Our next lunch meeting will be on Tuesday, April 15th at the Varsity at noon. Hopefully the weather will be nice and we can have the meeting outside. The restaurant is located on Broadway in downtown Tacoma. Here's their website http://www.varsitygrill.com/index.php. Hope to see everyone there!!! Bring a friend or two.
3.12.2008
March lunch meeting
Hi Everybody,
We have our monthly lunch meeting coming up next Tues, Mar 18th. At noon. We'll meet at the Harmon, here's their website http://www.harmonbrewing.com/. Their fries is to die for.
Anyway, don't forget to put this on your calendar. We'll have lots to go over for upcoming events and what Jon Denton has been doing with the AIA CES Comittee. Here are some tentative items on the agenda to keep in mind for the meeting. If you have any other ideas for events that our group could do, bring it up at the meeting.
- Upcoming architectural tours (Jon Denton)
- Associates social event in April/May
- High School mentorship program - coming up for
- Habitat for Humanity (I was thinking to start this up again in May/ June)
So I hope to see everyone there.
3.03.2008
Associates Social Event
Hi everyone,
I don't know if you realize this but it's been 8 months since our first social event back in June. I think we're definitely due for another one. I'm aiming to set one up for the first or second week of April to kick off the spring season. I'm thinking of a big bash for the associates, non-associates, and any AIA members of this chapter who would like to come for a meet and greet.
There will be a lot of planning involve in this because I want this to be a BIG event that focus on the associates. So, if anyone who has event coordination skills and would like to help, let me know. We'll need to start as soon as possible for this event to work since we have to get the word out there. Also, if anybody has any ideas as to what they'd like to see for the theme or even where we should have this event, let me know.
2.25.2008
Chelsea Heights Condo Tour
Hi Everyone,
Don't forget the condo construction tour this week!!! There's a limited number of hard hats available for use so sign up quickly. You can replied to this post if you want to go or email Marianne at MWombac...@bcradesign.com
The AIA SWW Emerging Leaders Group will be organizing a series of tours through buildings in various stages of construction. The first event will be a tour through Chelsea Heights by BCRA and Jennifer Weddermann-Hay will be conducting the tour. This is open for anyone who is interested. Please bring you own hard hats, wear smart shoes and dress appropriately for a site visit.
Date: Thursday February 28, 2008
Time: 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Location: 603 South "J" Street - Corner of 6th and "J" (Parking is limited around the site.)
Description: Chelsea Heights is a mixed-use building with the first level consisting of 20,000 SF of commercial space with three residential levels above and two levels of below grade parking. This project contains 76 residential units surrounding a public plaza and an open atrium.
2.19.2008
Varsity Lunch Reschedule
Good afternoon everyone.
Last time we met we talked about meeting for lunch today at the Varsity. If there are no objections I would love to reschedule for next Teusday at the Varsity. If this will create problems with anyone, please, let me know via my work email address (dion.se...@mcgranahan.com). Thanks. My apologies for the short notice.
Respectfully,
Dion Serra
1.22.2008
Don't forget lunch at the Harmon today
If you already forgot over the three-day weekend our monthly lunch meeting will be at the Harmon Brewery today.
1.16.2008
New changes
Hi everyone,
Don't forget the monthly lunch at the Harmon Brewery next Tues, 22nd at noon. Here's their website, http://www.harmonbrewing.com/ Hope to see you all there. Bring a friend or two.
I want to let you all know of a recent change that's going on. With that said, Dion Serra has offer to take over my responsibilities and maintain the Emerging Leaders Group. So, you'll see more emails from him now instead of me. If you have any questions or ideas for the group, email him or post it on here.
Also, don't forget the first ARE study session tomorrow night.
See you all there!
1.03.2008
Introducing ARE session
Hi everyone!!!
As you all are aware, the AIA chapter has started the ARE study sessions. These are helpful sessions for anyone who's interested. For those who are currently taking the exams, this will be really helpful in getting you prepare for it. For those who's not ready to take the exams, there are plenty of things you could learn by attending these sessions and be able to apply it to your work.
I hope to see you all there on Thursday, January 17th from 5:30-7:30pm. Make sure you rsvp to Cheryl Zoltak at aia@aiasww.org before January 15th. We need an accurate count of people so nobody will be standing.
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