work-on-the-boards
Billings on the Upswing Again in September, But Weakly
Many firms expect to add staff in 2004, but others hold tight
Billings at architecture firms bounced back modestly in September after two straight monthly declines. Just over 29 percent of firms reported increases in billings last month, compared to almost 25 percent that reported declines. Firms reported tepid improvement in inquiries for new projects; almost 29 percent of firms reported increases; 19 percent reported declines.

from the president’s office
Adobe Walls and Carpet Tiles
This year, meetings of the AIA Board have opened with a thoughtful presentation by an outside guest. The practice, although relatively new, is really a revival of an old custom. In the early years of the AIA’s history, meetings typically were prefaced by a scholarly paper. The presentation might be made by a member of the Board or the academic community. In this way, the Board signaled to itself, the members, and the outside world that the “business” of the AIA was the advancement of knowledge. I have found such presentations open meetings to the oxygen of fresh ideas. They also set the tone for thoughtful deliberation.

Nine Projects Capture 11 AIA Nebraska Design Awards
AIA Nebraska just announced its 2003 design awards winners, selected from a field of 91 entries. The AIA Nebraska Design Awards competition is an annual event for Nebraska architects, whose projects are judged on design, originality, extended use attributes, sustainability, budget, and use of environmental surroundings. This year’s jury members hail from Seattle: Chair Craig Curtis, AIA, Miller/Hull Partnership; Mary Johnston, AIA, Johnston Architects; Mark Hinshaw, FAIA, LMN Architects; and Tom Kundig, AIA, Olson Sundberg Kundig Allen Architects.

Federal Government Details Architects' Efforts to Go Green
Federal buildings have reduced their energy use by 23 percent and cut their carbon emissions by 2.8 million metric tons since 1985, with eight buildings gaining LEED™ certification, and more than 60 federal buildings seeking the designation from the U.S. Green Building Council, according to “The Federal Commitment to Green Building: Experiences and Expectations,” a government study released last month. And although more education, research, measuring tools, and coordination and integration are needed to advance sustainable building practices in government, these issues are not an insurmountable barrier to further progress, the upbeat report contends.

Kentucky Mourns the Loss of a Hometown Hero
John Russell Groves, AIA, was killed September 27 in the crash of a small aircraft at an airfield in Bardstown, Ky. Known as “Russ,” Groves was well loved and respected within the architecture community. He received AIA Kentucky’s Distinguished Service Award last year.

PROJECT WATCH
Stevie Eller Dance Theatre Raises the Barre in Tucson
Gould Evans didn’t just waltz in to the University of Arizona offices with a design for the new Stevie Eller Dance Theatre. Rather, the architects note, they took time to learn “about dance, about graphically representing dance through notation called ‘labanotation,’” and immersed themselves in the idea of movement.

Your Kiplinger Connection (members only)
Labor markets: A rejuvenated economy means more opportunities for workers, including yours. Business law: The U.S. Supreme Court is set to rule on important cases affecting business. Energy: A mixed outlook for this winter, with heating fuel costs rising and motor fuels dropping.
AIArchitect offers AIA members exclusive access to three stories a week to help them manage their practices and plan for the coming year. Nonmembers may subscribe to The Kiplinger Letter.

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