Prez Blog

Art, schmart, he can write!

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:06:00 +0000

Clare Floyd DeVries, (DeVries Architecture Design), says some nice things about Columns magazine in her blog post regarding president David Zatopek's most recent president letter:

The Dallas AIA (that's the American Institute of Architects to you in the cheap seats) sends out a monthly magazine called Columns. Frankly, it's never been the prize of my mailbox catch... until lately. But now?

The present AIA chapter president, David Zatopek, can write! (More elegantly than I.) What's more, he writes about thoughtful subjects. The rest of the mag follows his lead with a 30th year retrospective that's chock full o' nutty articles: a piece on influential early Dallas architects; another on archiving drawings; a piece on State Fair Park, one of the great collections of Art Deco; a photo-essay on restored houses; and a playfully written page (playful? AIA? together??) on the fraught relationship between architects and contractors.

Read more...

Posted by Kerrie Sparks, communications coordinator with AIA Dallas.

May's FirmTalk Lecture:

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Mon, 16 May 2011 16:29:00 +0000

Measuring Workplace Performance - 1 LU

We are excited to announce that Christine Barber, one of Gensler’s leading researchers, will join us at the May 16th AIA Dallas FirmTalk lecture. Christine will be able to share more about the various research strategies that are employed at Gensler and how the firm uses research to validate their design approach. Further discussion will take place on Gensler’s Workplace Performance Index and how this tool is used to measure the effect of environment on business performance. You should stop by the DCFA and hear about what differentiates average companies from top performing companies and see how design firms use this information to inform their design process.
By Tim Lavelle and Gianna Pigford

Monday, May 16th
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Reception begins at 6:00 p.m.
Lecture to follow at 6:30 p.m.
Dallas Center for Architecture
FREE EVENT - To register, click here.

Recent urban density/real estate panel featured AIA Dallas President, David Zatopek, AIA, and several AIA Dallas members.

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 16:33:00 +0000

Follow the link to read D Magazine's RealPoints article about the panel:

http://realpoints.dmagazine.com/2011/04/panel-grocers-eyeing-mckinney-ave-dart-board-mulling-big-rate-hike-for-non-residents/

An important message from AIA Dallas president, David Zatopek, AIA

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 19:14:00 +0000

Happy New Year.

As we look forward to the new year, I want to make an important announcement about the future of our chapter. Paula Clements, CAE, Hon. TSA has resigned as our Executive Director.

Paula has served our chapter since 2003 and has been our chapter's voice both locally, at TSA and AIA National. Paula has been tapped by AIA National to serve as Managing Director of Component Collaboration and Resources. After much reflection, she determined that this opportunity represented an important step in her career. Those of us who have worked with Paula for some time know that our loss is AIA National's gain and I don't have to tell you all how valuable her experience and leadership will be to our national organization and profession overall.

I know that you all will want to join me in wishing her our very best for this next important step in her career.

Paula will continue to work with us through the month of January to help start up our committees and give us the advantage of her experience in starting off a new year. During the month of February, she will begin to transition out of the chapter into her national role, including a move to Washington DC. Paula will be joining the AIA National team on February 14th.

I want to share with you, our members, the steps the leadership team has taken to better ensure continuity of our chapter operations and programs during this transition.

Rita Moore, who has served our chapter in an operational role, has been promoted to Managing Director of the Chapter. In this new role, she will have day-to-day responsibility for chapter operations and, until the Executive Director position is filled, will serve in that capacity as well. The position of Executive Director will remain vacant until filled.
A search committee has been formed.
Updates on our search progress will be a regular feature in the "President's Blog" on our chapter website.

Replacing the Executive Director of the sixth largest chapter in the nation will be a great challenge. Fortunately, thanks in large part to Paula's stewardship, the state of our chapter is excellent. Our leadership team will be working directly with staff and our committee chairs to be sure that our programs, public outreach, and events remain on track and continue to be of value to our community and profession.

David Zatopek, AIA
2011 AIA Dallas President

And now, a personal note from Paula...

For the past seven years it has been a positive challenge with many rewards to serve as Executive Director of AIA Dallas. I have worked with many dedicated, volunteer leaders, and a professional staff to launch new and successful programs and initiatives that support the mission of the chapter.

So it becomes a bittersweet announcement to inform you that I have accepted a new and challenging role with AIA. Next month I will be moving to Washington DC to join the AIA national staff as Managing Director of Component Collaboration and Resources. As a result of several years of challenging work and a tweaked re-alignment of resources, AIA National has re-organized the component and member services function. It is quickly emerging as a strategic department ready to support effective and positive connections within all levels of AIA.

I will continue to serve the chapter through the month of January as we begin the transition. I look forward to working with each of you from a more global perspective as I take on this new role in AIA.

Paula Clements, CAE, Hon. TSA

The Best Hard Times

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 19:14:00 +0000

Everyone has been touched by today’s Great Recession. Many of our members, colleagues, friends and neighbors are unemployed or under-employed. While there are signs of recovery, the halcyon days before the past two years are, for most, a fading memory.

By definition, hard times are difficult. Opportunities are fewer and further between. Competition for what few opportunities still exist is fierce. Unfortunately, for many their response is one of wait-and-see or even resentful blame placed on… (fill in the blank with your favorite economic goblin). Not that there isn’t enough blame to go around, but even in slow times, inaction breeds inaction.

Some time ago, I enjoyed reading Timothy Egan’s The Worst Hard Time, an excellent history of the Great Dust Bowl; clearly appropriate reading in today’s time of economic crisis and looming climate change. Without vigilance, history does repeat itself. However, despite the stories of drought and suffering, I left the book reflecting on the important changes that those long-ago period brought us--improved stewardship of the land and economy, social protections, and engagement, to name a few.

Each hard time is an opportunity and today is no exception. In fact, for architecture and the broader rubric of design and the operative arts, hard times are best times. With reduced pecuniary opportunities, this is a time to reflect, to sharpen skills and acumen, time to consider and re-consider our responsibility not only to our clients and patrons, but to each other as colleagues and to society. If we can honestly assess our strengths and weaknesses, and if we endeavor to understand what might be next, we might re-invent our professional response to emerging challenges. This is basis for opportunity. Those who take this opportunity will position themselves for the turnaround and make the best of hard times. Those who don’t will be left behind.

Today, AIA Dallas is uniquely positioned to embrace this opportunity for re-invention. Our young members are starting new firms that look to broader models of networked collaboration. Our older members are cultivating new skills and building new relationships. Our members are engaged with volunteer activities that make a direct contribution to our city--increasing the visibility and relevance of our profession to underserved communities. Together, we can make these hard times the best times.

David Zatopek, AIA
2011 AIA Dallas President

November Blog

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 21:33:00 +0000

The November meeting of the Executive Committee was held last week. The meeting was a standard meeting with usual reports. In this blog, I would like to focus on the events which followed the meeting.

This month before the Firm Talk we recognized the 2010 Community Honors Awards. Dennis Stacy, FAIA, is chair of the AIA Dallas Community Honors Committee. He made the introductions of each winner.

Our Lifetime Achievement Award winners were presented a medal which was specifically designed for this award. The past winners that were there were a Who’s Who of Dallas architects. The first to receive the newly designed medal was the 2010 winner, James Pratt, FAIA. He was followed by:

Reagan George, FAIA 2009

Bill Smith, FAIA 2007

Vel Hawes, FAIA 2005

Frank Welch, FAIA 2003

Pat Spillman, FAIA 2002

Dave Braden, FAIA 2001

Bill Booziotis, FAIA, 2008 recipient, and Ron Skaggs, FAIA, 2006 recipient, could not be present. The first winner was Harwood K. Smith, FAIA, 1999 who is deceased. Everyone was excited to see our Lifetime Achievement Award recipients.

Following the Lifetime Achievement Awards were the TSA Awards:

Citation of Honor – Artisan: Potter Arts Metal – Richard Potter accepting

Associate of the Year: Mary Foley Butler, Assoc. AIA

Also recognized was AIA Dallas Firm of the Year Oglesby-Green Architects, Inc. Joe McCall was in attendance.

The next presentations were Community Honor Awards:

AIA Dallas Artist/Craftsman Award

David Newton, Sculptor

AIA Dallas Contractor Award

Brandt Engineer – Mark Zilbermann accepting

AIA Dallas Consultant Award

CurtainWall Design Consulting – Charles Clift accepting

AIA Dallas Community Honors

Town of Addison Festival Series – Ron Whitehead, City Manager, with other Addison staff accepted

Dallas Faith Communities Coalition

Regina Nippert, Executive Director accepted

AIA Dallas Honorary Membership

Katherine Seale, Executive Director, Preservation Dallas

Frank Turner, Deputy City Manager, City of Plano

Nate Eudaly, Executive Director of Dallas Architecture Forum

(Nate could not be present, but will receive the award at the AIA Dallas Holiday Party)

That concluded a truly outstanding awards ceremony. The 2010 Community Honor Awards Committee is to be congratulated.

The awards were followed by the Firm Talk by Omniplan. The presentation concluded this years’ Firm Talk series. Bob Bullis is to be commended for organizing the talks.

The AIA Dallas Holiday Party is Thursday, December 2nd. It should be a great evening. Be sure to register and attend. I look forward to passing the “hat” to president-elect David Zatopek.

(l-r) James Pratt, FAIA, Reagan George, FAIA, Bill D. Smith, FAIA, Vel Hawes, FAIA, Frank Welch, FAIA, Pat Spillman, FAIA, and Dave Braden, FAIA.

Joe Buskuhl, FAIA
2010 AIA Dallas President

October Blog

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 20:38:00 +0000

The Executive Committee had a very full agenda this month.

Shade O’Quinn gave a report on the September financials. It still appears we will do better this year versus the budget, however there are several events which could change that projection. It was reported that there were thirteen new members in September

Paula Clements gave the chapter report. We welcome Paula back after being out the first part of the year on medical leave. She reported that Columns magazine and the “Re-engagement Roadshow” have been submitted to AIA for the Grassroots Chapter Awards. The 25 Year Awards were presented to the Executive Committee for approval. They will be announced October 28th at the Design Awards Winners & Client Appreciation Reception.

Bob Bullis said he is working with Kirk Teske on transitioning the Program’s responsibilities going into 2011. Bob has done an outstanding job leading programs this year.

The commissions each gave an update on their committee activities:

Environment & Design:

Design Awards are complete and the committee is preparing for the client appreciation reception. COTE is becoming involved in the review of The International Green Construction Code. KROB is receiving submissions for this year’s competition.

Communication & Outreach:

The Re-engagement Roadshow is a program where AIA Dallas presents its activities to architectural firms in Dallas. The presentation, so far, has been well received. New graphics for our chapter are starting to appear in our communications with positive comments. Columns will now be offered at Barnes & Noble. The Home Tour is well into planning, however, we still need more volunteers.

Professional Practice:

The Small Firm Round Table is continuing to be a valuable committee and Construction in Architecture is looking at BIM. The Integrated Practice Committee is developing a presentation for our firms on alternative delivery of projects.

Membership Services:

YAF has finished the Bird House competition and the Arboretum competition has extended its deadline. A mentorship program is being planned for November 5th to explore the design build process. WIA is developing a program concerning social media networking. They are also continuing with a program on Girl Scout cookie box design. The Associates are planning their next Architecture on Tap and 2B An Architect is planned for November 13th. They have finished Canstruction and it is on display at Northpark. This raised over $3,000 to benefit the North Texas Food Bank. Latinos in Architecture had a very good turnout for their September event. They also continue to assist the Dallas CityDesign Studio with translation in West Dallas.

Education:

The commission continues to look at AV and acoustic issues at the Center and how it affects classes and events. The Emerging Leaders had their last class and they are planning for their graduation function.

Government Affairs is reviewing the organization of this Committee to determine its makeup going forward. Bob Bullis went to a stakeholder meeting at City Hall concerning Building Inspection. The purpose is to address fees and level of service by the department. We will keep our members advised as more meetings are held.

The TSA Board met and approved the TSA 2011 budget. TSA is also going to be moving their office early next year.

Christian Walker, UTA’s AIAS President, presented on how they were organized this year and requested AIA Dallas’ for support to send students to the AIAs Forum 2010. This was approved.

Pete DeLisle came in to let the Executive Committee know that the Emerging Leaders class had a successful year and those in the class will be good leaders for their firms, the profession, and the community.

Raleigh Roussell, President/CEO of TEXO and Tony Rader, Chair Elect was invited to attend the meeting. AIA Dallas thanked them for their long time support of AIA Dallas and for their being founding members of the Dallas Center for Architecture. We discussed developing an area within the Center that would recognize the relationship of the two organizations. We will keep you informed as that develops.

The meeting was adjourned and was followed by a reception. t. howard & associates gave a very good presentation on the ”History of a Young Firm”. The next firm presentation will be by Omniplan Inc. and the topic is Higher Education/Lower Budgets. This will be the last firm talk for the year. If you need that CEU or just want to meet other members, please plan to attend.

Joe Buskuhl, FAIA
2010 AIA Dallas President

September Blog

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 22:15:00 +0000

SEPTEMBER 2010 BLOG

The September meeting of the executive committee began with The Brand Hatchery reviewing their study of communications tools AIA Dallas is using and how it can be improved to benefit our members. There are short term changes which are being implemented and longer term goals which must be incorporated to ease usability for our members.

The executive committee welcomed Paula Cements, executive director, back after her leave this year. It is great to have her back.

The financial report was given, and we are on track for our budget. New members continue to join. We are now over 1900 members. Last year we were almost 2100 members.

Paula’s chapter report noted that we are investigating a Toast Master’s program at AIA Dallas. This should add another opportunity to assist our members with an additional skill set. Paula also reported that the AIA Dallas Emerging Leader’s Program fund raiser was a success. This benefited their class project which is with Mercy Street to create a “Field of Dreams” in West Dallas. If you go to the aiadallas.org, you can link to the Emerging Leaders page and blog to read more about this community project and about their class and what they have done this year.

Bob Bullis reported that the programs at the Arts District, Phillip Johnson’s Peace Chapel, and the Dallas CityDesign Studio presentation were all successful.

Our commissioners have had a very busy month in planning events:

Environment & Design: The Design Awards Committee was in the final days of preparation for the juror and announcement events which were September 29 and 30. Communities by Design have been meeting with Brent Brown of Dallas CityDesign Studio. The KROB Committee is preparing for their November event.

Education: There has been a successful SketchUp class. The Emerging Leaders are nearing the end of their class year and are planning their end of year events. Paul Pascarelli is investigating how AIA Dallas can provide on-line classes in addition to the in room classes.

Professional Practice: The CIA Committee is planning an event with the City of Dallas to discuss budget cuts and how that will affect the review process. The Integrated Practice Committee is developing an Integrated Project Delivery program to inform our members of “what is it”. They are also working with the local Lean Construction Institute to inform our members on LCI.

Membership: Alicia Quintans is working to bring back an ethics panel or committee to address issues which are brought to the chapter. YAF is working on the Arboretum competition completion, and they are also working with Young Constructors on programs. The Associates are planning for Canstruction, and they continue with ARE. Latinos in Architecture had a successful book drive and collected over 700 books to be distributed to area schools. They also received thanks from the Dallas CityDesign Studio for providing translation at community meetings in West Dallas.

Communications and Outreach: Diane Collier reported that the fall issue of Columns had been mailed out, and this would be the first issue of the magazine to hit Texas regional Barnes & Noble bookstores. The planning for Home Tours is progressing well, you can now purchase tickets online at aiadallas.org. The firm visits for the Re-engagement Roadshow have now started.

Government Affairs: Everyone is encouraged to make a contribution to TSA’s TAC. This is very important in light of the upcoming legislative session.

Jennifer Workman, our TSA Director, advised that TSA is developing their finalized 2011 budget. TSA is also in the final planning stages of the 2010 Convention in San Antonio. Next year the TSA Convention will be in Dallas.

Dean Gatzke reported that UTA had received their full 6 year accreditation. He also said that enrollment was up in architecture. The continuing real estate programs on high density development and building repositioning are underway. These are being led by Michael Buckley who is also on our executive committee.

The meeting was adjourned and was followed by a reception where our Professional Affiliates were recognized for their contribution and support of AIA Dallas. The reception was followed by the election of 2011 officers: congratulations to Shade O’Quinn, President-elect; Thom Powell, Vice President and Treasurer; Kirk Teske, Vice President for Programs; and Todd Howard, TSA Director. The elections were followed by a presentation from Corgan on Aviation Architecture, given by Phil Mein who has a great presentation style.

Next month’s firm talk will be The History of a Young Firm by t. howard + associates.

Joe Buskuhl, FAIA
2010 AIA Dallas President

August Blog

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 22:05:00 +0000

The August Executive Committee began with Dennis Stacy presenting his committee’s Community Honor award nominations, which were approved. These will be announced soon.

The financial report was given and we are still on track to meet our budget.

Rita Moore gave the Chapter report:

• A CACE meeting was held in Chicago with good dialog with AIA National; National has had a number of staff leave. It is hoped this will change once a new Executive Director is selected.

• We have received resumes for a new events coordinator to replace Shani.

• TSA was notified by AIA National that Texas will have a third Regional Director.

Bob Bullis reported on programs. The next program is a presentation by Dallas CityDesign Studio on September 2nd at the Hitt Auditorium at Methodist Hospital. Brent Brown and Larry Beasley will present. This will be followed on September 9th by a tour of Philip Johnson’s Interfaith Peace Chapel. A Day in the Park at Main Street Garden will be September 25th. Go to AIA Dallas’ website to register for these events.

Alisha Quintans’ membership commission committees were very active this month:

• YAF: Dan Shipley presented a program on ethics at their last meeting. This was well attended.

YAF is also working with TEXO on a Bird House competition for the Arboretum.

• Women in Architecture had their first lecture which was led by Angela Lee and it had a very successful turnout.

• The Associates had another successful Architecture on Tap. This series went so well, they will continue with quarterly events. The Associates are also working on an entry for Canstruction.

• Latinos in Architecture will have an event September 24th at the Dallas Center for Architecture. This is to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month. They are also collecting books to donate to schools. You can link to their blog on the AIA Dallas website for more information.

Thom Powell updated the Executive Committee on Design Awards and KRob. He has also reported that there were approximately 50 attendees at the Sustainability Showcase.

David Rodriguez reported on activities in Professional Practice. The Small Firm Roundtable continues to be active and Construction in Architecture which has a joint committee with TEXO continues to work on programs to help our members understand IDP and Lean Construction.

Bernita Beikmann attended the meeting to update us on the Lean Construction Institute. Bernita was named president of the new North Texas Chapter. She will work with David and his committee to help our members understand lean construction.

Mark Wolf advised that David Lancaster would be in Dallas August 24th to discuss PAC and what TSA is doing to be advocates for architecture on legislative issues.

Jennifer Workman discussed the TSA board’s retreat to Seattle and how the 2030 initiatives came into the retreat.

The meeting was adjourned and followed by a reception and a very good presentation on healthcare architecture by Page Southerland. The next firm presentation will be September 20th on aviation architecture by Corgan Associates, Inc. You can sign up on the AIA Dallas website to attend and receive 1 CEU.

Joe Buskuhl, FAIA
2010 AIA Dallas President

July 2010 Update

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 21:22:00 +0000

The July Executive Meeting started by welcoming and congratulating Craig Reynolds. We were notified that Craig was selected by the TSA Nominations Committee to be nominated as President for TSA in 2011 which would lead to the presidency of TSA in 2012. This would mean the presidents of both national AIA and TSA would be from Dallas in 2012.

Some of the highlights from the Executive Committee included:

• Financials continue to hold up, and we are cautiously optimistic that the year will end well.

• Bob Bullis reported on programs that have been scheduled. Please go to the AIA Dallas website to see the programs and dates. Bob has done a great job with programs this year, and his goal was to bring as many programs as possible at a low cost or free. I believe he has succeeded.

• Davis Zatopek reported that AIA Dallas and the Dallas Architecture Forum were finalizing the scholarships in honor of David Dillon. We will let you know of this as it is finalized.

• Commissions:

     o Environment and Design: Thom Powell advised that the Sustainability Showcase that was just   completed was a success. The final numbers are not in yet, but approximately 390 people attended during two days. The Design Awards and KROB events are being finalized.

    o Professional Practice: David Rodriguez discussed the upcoming Lean Construction programs being developed by the CIA Committee.

    o Communications and Outreach: Diane Collier had a very busy month. She is working with Kerrie Sparks and The Brand Hatchery to develop communications tools which will allow us to better communicate with our members and the public.
The Home Tour is well into planning. Diane is working with Dennis Stacy on Community
Honors.
The latest Columns was recently published and was the first to be published internally! The Publications Committee did a great job.

• Todd Howard and Mark Wolf discussed ongoing activities on government affairs. They are working to organize ongoing contact with our government officials.

• Mark Wolf gave an update on TSA. They have a retreat this weekend. TSA is also looking at their 2011 budgets. We will be following that closely as we begin to look at 2011.

I have to say this has been an excellent board to work with this year. They are all energetic and have a lot of ideas. You can be proud of their efforts on your behalf.

The meeting was followed by the FirmTalk reception and lecture with an excellent presentation on educational architecture by SHW Group. I once again encourage everyone to attend. You can’t beat getting food, drinks and 1 CEU at no cost. The next firm talk will be Page Southerland Page who will be presenting healthcare architecture.

Joe Buskuhl, FAIA
2010 AIA Dallas President

June 2010 Update

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 18:18:00 +0000

We had the Executive Committee meeting this week with our normal reports on financial, programs, and commissioners. Instead of reviewing those reports, I would like to focus on some of the activity we had during and after the meeting.

AIA Dallas and the Dallas Architecture Forum (DAF) had discussed each donating $1000 for scholarships in the name of David Dillon. This was passed by the Executive Committee. We will meet with DAF to discuss the direction of the scholarship.

Dan Hart, the President-elect of Texas Society of Architects (TSA), attended the meeting and spoke about his background. He also talked about 2011 and the challenges of a possible shortfall in the State of Texas budget next year. TSA is organizing a first Architect’s Day at the Capital in Austin. Architects from the state will go to the Capital in January 2011 and visit their members of congress to discuss issues which affect our profession. This is similar to the “grassroots” event which the AIA has every year in Washington DC.

Jeff Potter also attended the meeting. Jeff, an AIA Dallas member, was elected First Vice President at the AIA Convention in Miami two weeks ago. He will be President of the AIA in 2012. Jeff thanked AIA Dallas for their support. He felt that one of the biggest issues AIA will have is the health of members under duress. We congratulate Jeff on his successful campaign.

After the Executive Committee meeting and reception which followed, AIA Dallas was honored to present Gail Thomas with her certificate and pin for being selected Honorary AIA. Ron Skaggs who was AIA President in 2000 presented the certificate to Gail. As Ron noted, this is the highest honor that AIA bestows on a non architect. Jeff Potter, who was on the TSA board with Gail, gave her the AIA pin. Gail has been a great asset and friend to AIA. Prior to Gail’s presentation, Dan Hart said a few words to the audience and also recognized Gail. Dan and Gail had been on the TSA board together.

This was followed by the monthly AIA Dallas FirmTalk lecture series. JHP Architecture/Urban Design gave a very good presentation on transportation centers and mixed use design.

Our next firm presentation will be on Monday July 19 and will feature SHW Group, LLP, who will discuss educational architecture. The evening will begin at 6:00 with a reception followed at 6:30 by the lecture. Those who preregister on the AIA Dallas web site will earn 1 CEU.

I hope to see you there.

Joe Buskuhl, FAIA
2010 AIA Dallas President

May 2010 Executive Committee Meeting & AIA Dallas Update

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Wed, 26 May 2010 22:04:00 +0000

We have just completed the May Executive Committee meeting. I feel the highlight of the meeting was having the class of the Emerging Leaders Program in attendance. I believe it gave them a good perspective of issues and actions that the Executive Committee and staff deal with on an ongoing basis.

The financial report indicated that we are still on track to meet our budget for the year. I am happy to report that with a Founding Partner’s final payment and with the remainder of the funds from the Dollar A Day campaign, we can pay off the build-out construction loan for the Dallas Center for Architecture. The Executive Committee would like to thank everyone who contributed to this success.

Rita Moore who has filled in for Paula Clements during her absence, reported that each of the staff had filled out a form which outlines their responsibilities, their schedule of activities for the upcoming quarter, areas of concern, recommendations for improvement, and trends that impact their area. These were shared with our committee and will be of great assistance. I might also note that the commissioners meet once a month as a group and are joined by our staff. This provides great synergy and communications towards achieving goals and coordinating activities.

Bob Bullis reported on upcoming programs. You can follow these as they are posted on the AIA Dallas website. The commissioners each reported on their activities.

Todd Howard and Mark Wolf discussed the Government and Industry Affairs committee activities. As these come together we will keep you informed of actions. Mark Wolf also asked that Dallas members support Texas Architects Committee, which is the political action organization of Texas architects. This is an important election year.

David Zatopek discussed some AIA Dallas facility issues. We are working with building management on parking issues, studying how a resource center can be incorporated into the Center, and acoustics and audio visual upgrades to enhance conferencing needs.

Dennis Stacy presented the Community Honors committee recommendations for approval. The meeting was adjourned and was followed by a reception which honored sponsors of the AIA Dallas/Acme Brick Golf Tournament. The sponsors play a significant role in the success of this event which completed its fourteenth year. We thank them for their participation.

The reception was followed by an excellent presentation on urban planning by Good Fulton & Farrell, Inc. We also got to see how Larry Good is a master of improvisation when his computer went blank. It did not take away from content and showed that Larry is a very nimble presenter.

Next month on June 21, 2010, JHP Architecture/Urban Design will give the Firm Talk. This will be preceded by a special presentation to Gail Thomas for her Honorary AIA. Also present will be Dan Bush who is president elect of The Texas Society of Architects.

Come join us. You will enjoy the evening.

Joe Buskuhl, FAIA
2010 AIA Dallas President

April Executive Committee Meeting & AIA Dallas Update

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:55:00 +0000

Since the last blog, AIA Dallas has seen a lot of activity.

The Retrospect Opening party was held at NorthPark Center Gardens. The turnout for this event was very good. The exhibits displayed show that firms in the Dallas area convey the message that “Design Matters”. I would like to thank Mark Hopper for leading Retrospect for the last 10 years and being involved for almost 20 years, and to Craig Beneke for devoting his time over the last 20 years to Retrospect. This was their last year on the committee. Karen Ray will take over the reins as chair of the Retrospect Committee in 2011.

The AIA Dallas/Acme Brick Golf Tournament was held April 12. Once again it was a sell out with a record number of architects playing. The AIA would like to thank Acme Brick and American Tile for being title sponsors and many other companies for sponsoring the tournament. AIA Dallas could not do it without them. Go to our web site and see all of the sponsor’s names and thank them when you see them.

April 19 was the Executive Committee meeting. Some of the highlights include:

• Financial Report: The financials for the chapter are positive. Dues collection has exceeded the budget. In the last month, there have been 20 new members and 9 new Professional Affiliates. The loan for the Dallas Center for Architecture is close to being retired. That is due to the commitment of the Founding Partners and those that contributed through the Dollar a Day campaign.

• Bob Bullis reported on future programs. Please watch the website for details.

• The Design Awards Committee is busy planning events for the awards.

• The Committee on the Environment and the Code Committee are reviewing proposed language of the new Green Code and will send comments to TSA.

• The Education Committee is looking at a new way to deliver education programs. Updates will be issued as this progresses.

• The Publications Committee has been challenged because of financial problems of the publisher of Columns. Blackson Brick has stepped up and underwritten the next issue and will be a major sponsor of Columns in the future. Despite the problems, the committee creates a publication that has great content and is professional in every way.

• Cat Nguyen and Mary Foley gave an update on the activities of the Associates Committee. The committee has a full calendar for the year. Their biggest challenge is getting the necessary resources to purchase more study materials for the ARE. We hope to help them with this endeavor.

This is only a quick summary of the meeting. If you are interested in more detail, call me or any of the Executive Committee.

Following the Executive Committee meeting we had a reception honoring new members followed by the Firm Talk series. The Beck Group gave a very informative program on The Urban Church.

Once again, this is a great way to go to a reception, followed by an informative program which will earn 1 CEU — all at no cost. The next firm talk will be May 17. Good Fulton Farrell, Inc. will discuss “The Canyon, A Lesson in Urban Planning”. Plan on joining your colleagues for an evening that will include good fellowship and a very interesting presentation.

Joe Buskuhl, FAIA
2010 AIA Dallas President

March Executive Committee Meeting

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 14:37:00 +0000

The Executive Committee met for their March meeting. The good news from the meeting was membership renewals and new members have exceeded the budget projections. At this time of hardship on our firms and members, we are extremely pleased with the commitment to AIA Dallas. On the other hand, the economy has also been very difficult for our Professional Affiliates, and the number of PA’s renewing is down. We are all appreciative to those who have renewed. They are a valuable resource and support of AIA Dallas.

Diane Collier gave a presentation on a branding effort to help AIA Dallas deliver the programs and materials to you on a timely basis and in a format that will be meaningful. Hopefully you will see a difference as the year progresses.

David Rodriguez reported on professional practice activities. The AIA/TEXO committee continues to work on synergies between our organizations. The committees are all looking at project delivery. We are working to bring value and education to our members on project delivery.

Thom Powell reported on his committees. The Design Awards are starting to be planned. Thom’s committees are looking at not only the award announcement, but also the recognition which could be another venue. This will be coordinated with other committees.

Alicia Quintans is Commissioner for Membership Services. She reported on YAF, the Associates Committee, and Women in Architecture. All of these committees are active. The Associates Committee is preparing for the ARE seminars.

All of our commissioners are meeting monthly to coordinate their activities. So much of what they do overlaps, and they are keeping each other informed.

Rusty Haile with Acme Brick reported on the planning for the upcoming golf tournament. He presented the list of sponsors. This is a great event and we appreciate our sponsors who help make this so successful. Once again, this event has sold out this year, so I hope you will enjoy the day and fellowship.
I encourage everyone to come to the Retrospect opening night reception at NorthPark Center on April 1, taking place in CenterPark, the gardens located in the center outdoor space of the mall. Go to AIA Dallas’ website to register. This is always a big turnout and enjoyed by all.

I was very happy to report that Gail Thomas was recognized as Honorary AIA by AIA National. This is a great honor for someone who has been a long time friend and supporter of AIA Dallas.

The meeting ended with a reception followed by a presentation by Raymond Harris and Associates Architects. It was a very good turnout. Those who registered will receive 1 HSW/SD credit. This is a very good way to receive credits and attend a reception at no cost to our members. The firm presentations follow the Executive Committee meetings every third Monday of the month, beginning at 6pm. Click here to register.

Joe Buskuhl, FAIA
2010 AIA Dallas President

AIA Dallas Monthly Executive Committee Meeting Overview

noreply@blogger.com (AIA Dallas President) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:20:00 +0000

AIA Dallas had its monthly Executive Committee (EXCOMM) meeting this week. I want to let you, our members, know the items we discussed. One of our primary discussions early in the year is financial status of AIAD. We are focusing on membership renewals. Due to national AIA sending out dues later than in years past, we do not feel we will get a clear picture of where we stand versus budget until March. We are approximately 23% less in collected dues this year compared with this time last year. The EXCOMM still feels that we will meet the budget set for the year.

Bob Bullis, VP Programs; reported on programs for the year. A great addition to our EXCOMM is Michael Buckley, who is a visiting professor at the University of Texas at Arlington and serves as our Public Member. He and Bob are working on several programs I think you will find interesting. They will be announced in the future. The commissioners each gave a report on their committees and activities for this year. The commissioners the year are Alicia Quintans, Membership Services; Thom Powell, Environment and Design; Paul Pascarelli, Education; David Rodriguez, Professional Practice; and Diane Collier, Communications and Outreach. Jeramie Rittiluechai, who is chair of the YAF gave a presentation on their activities. The committees with younger people are developing blogs and social network sites to keep their membership informed. AIA will be working to develop a PR campaign and branding to enhance AIAD’s ability to serve our members.

The government affairs committee is getting organized to develop a plan to represent our members at the local state, and federal levels of government. The plans will be shared at a later date.

Jennifer Workman, Dallas TSA Director, gave an update on the last TSA board meeting and discussed issues which may come up at the convention in June.

The meeting was adjourned and was followed by the first in a series of firm presentations. HKS presented sport architecture. It was informative and well attended. The presentations follow the EXCOMM meetings, which are held the third Monday of each month, and are offered at no cost. A reception is held from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. prior to the firm presentation. Try to attend in the future. You will see old friends and meet new friends and colleagues. The first presentation this week concluded with the KROB reception. If you haven’t been to see the KROB exhibit, please stop by the Dallas Center for Architecture. It is an outstanding exhibit.

Joe Buskuhl, FAIA
2010 AIA Dallas President