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VERICO Ellis Mortgages Canada, one of the newest partners in Club AIBC, is pleased to offer the Mortgage Discount Program to all AIBC Registrants. EMC will host a free lunchtime information session on Tuesday, March 3, 2009. More...

» New Legislation Workshops

Please reserve the following dates and times for a series of information workshops on the proposed new Architectural Professions Act.

February 9 · March 9 · April 14 2009

4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
AIBC Offices
#100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver

Each of these progressive sessions will focus on specific aspects of the proposed new legislation. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions and share comments.

All registrants are encouraged to attend each session in order to better understand what is being proposed and its impact on both practitioners and their profession, as well as to provide feedback to AIBC Council as it continues to draft new legislation for government’s consideration.

These workshops are part of AIBC Council’s commitment to ongoing consultation on this important initiative. There will also be a full-day Saturday session (May 9) at this year’s annual conference. Additional meetings, including regional presentations, are in the planning stage.

Please confirm your attendance for each of these workshops at communications@aibc.ca. We look forward to seeing you there.

Note: the April meeting has been rescheduled to Tuesday, April 14th to accommodate the Easter Monday holiday.

» Ministry Meeting

On January 20, AIBC President David Wilkinson and Executive Director Dorothy Barkley had one of their regular get-togethers with the Honourable Murray Coell, Minister of Advanced Education & Labour Market Development, to discuss matters of mutual interest. Minister Coell expressed satisfaction with the ongoing consultation concerning the proposed new legislation, and was pleased to hear of further information workshops for AIBC registrants planned for the coming months

» Special Meeting Q&A

How do you plan to reduce the area of unregulated building design?

The proposed new legislation would do this by removing almost all building types and sizes that currently fall within current exemption provisions. Under the new legislative scheme, only single family residences or duplexes on a single site will remain open to unregulated designers. Again, the scope of public protection is expanded.

Click here to read more from the Special Meeting Q&A page.

» Member Renewals

A reminder to all registrants that the 2009 annual fee is due by February 1, 2009.

Please complete the forms provided in the 2009 Renewal Notice, which was mailed out in December. If you have not received the notice, or have questions about your registration, please contact Licensing Coordinator Kim Underwood, or Registration Coordinator Roisin O'Neill. The AIBC accepts payments by VISA, MasterCard, money order, or cheque drawn in Canadian funds from a Canadian bank. Fees may also be paid in person by debit card or cash at the AIBC office. Payments by phone will not be accepted.

» AIBC Volunteer Recognition 2008-2009

Nominations are now being accepted for the AIBC’s annual Volunteer Recognition Awards. There are three awards:

• AIBC Honorary Membership - for significant and outstanding contributions by a non-registrant to increasing the awareness and appreciation of architecture. Click here for the nomination form.
• AIBC Special Certificate of Recognition - for recent and general volunteer contributions demonstrating expertise and leadership in specific initiatives for the benefit or enhancement of the practice and profession of architecture by an individual registrant or firm. Click here for the nomination form.
• The Barbara Dalrymple Memorial Award for Community Service - in recognition of lifetime or exceptional contributions by an individual registrant or firm. Click here for the nomination form.

The deadline for nominations is March 18, 2009.

Carla Brown-John
Director – Administration & Human Resources

» February 2009 Oral Reviews

The next Oral Review session will be held on February 18 and 19, 2009. The application form is now available to download from the AIBC website. Oral Reviews are open to those Intern Architects who have both completed and logged at least 2800 hours (preferably completed all required hours) and completed the required AIBC courses.

The Intern Architect Committee will be hosting an Oral Review Preparation Workshop on Wednesday, January, 28, 2009, 6:00 - 8:00 pm at the AIBC offices. Those candidates planning on take part in this round of Oral Reviews are invited.

» AIBC Vancouver Island Chapter Meeting

The next meeting of the AIBC’s Vancouver Island Chapter takes place Wednesday, February 4, 2009 from 12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Ambrosia Centre, 638 Fisgard Street in Victoria. The guest speakers will be Barry Milner, Marketing Director, and Stuart Yanow, LEED® accredited Senior Engineer and Certified Geoexchange Designer (IGSHPA) with GeoTility Systems. They will provide an extensive PowerPoint presentation on geoexchange (geothermal heating and cooling) technology that will cover include:

• variations on the design and installation of water-to-air and water-to-water heat pump configurations
• mechanical system design features and applications
• economic analysis
• payback
• return on investment
• value added attachment
• residential and commercial case studies
• environmental impact analysis
• utility service model applications – TerraSource, Corix and Terasen

There is no charge for this event. However, for catering purposes please confirm your attendance by February 2 to jmcoe@shaw.ca.

1.5 Core LUs

» City of Vancouver: Regulatory Review Survey

The AIBC is pleased contribute to a consultation group brought together by the City of Vancouver’s Development Services Department as part of a regulatory review aimed at streamlining, updating and, where possible, eliminating outdated and/or conflicting local regulations. This includes the city’s Zoning & Development By-law, Official Development Plan By-laws, and Land Use Development Policies and Guidelines. The city’s permit processing is also under review.

AIBC members and associates are encouraged to contribute to the review process by completing a short survey. Note: in order to make it easier for you to share your concerns and ideas, an online version of the survey is now available. This is your chance to identify the regulations and processes that you find most difficult or unreasonable. Situational examples are invited. This is one of those rare opportunities for the profession to be heard, and to influence the regulatory process with which we deal on a daily basis. I hope that you will take a few minutes out of your day to complete the survey. The deadline is February 1, 2009.

To access the online survey, click here. To access the hard copy version, click here.

Michael A. Ernest MAIBC
Director of Professional Practice

» New Provisions for Mid-rise Wood-frame Residential Construction

The provincial government has announced new BC Building Code provisions that increase the maximum allowable building height for mid-rise wood-frame residential construction from four to six storeys. These new code provisions will take effect on April 6. An online public consultation on these changes closed on December 15, 2008. In finalizing the changes to the new code requirements, the province considered feedback received from various building industry stakeholders, including a detailed submission from the AIBC which identified several areas of concern, most notably respecting implementation strategy, timing and prerequisites. The AIBC will be reviewing and reporting on the final code provisions in light of the concerns previously identified. To view the new BC Building Code provisions, go to http://www.housing.gov.bc.ca/building/wood_frame/

Michael A. Ernest MAIBC
Director of Professional Practice

» Changes to Vancouver Development Permits

As of February 1, 2009, the wording for City of Vancouver Development Permit Conditions related to the provision of off-street parking, loading and bicycle spaces, as well as the provision of landscaping, will be amended. From that date, these requirements must be provided before issuance of required occupancy permits – there will no longer be a six-month grace period. Applicants for an occupancy permit must now demonstrate that spaces have been provided for parking, loading and bicycles, along with any required site landscaping, prior to the issuance of the permit. Where an applicant is unable to complete the landscaping requirements prior to final occupancy approval, the city may permit the work to be delayed provided the applicant submits a letter of credit guaranteeing the landscaping will be provided by an agreed-upon date. Note: developments permits issued prior to February 1 and containing the previous grace period wording will continue to be honoured at time of occupancy. For additional information, please contact Bill Boons, Assistant Director – Development Services, by phone (604-873-7678) or e-mail (bill.boons@vancouver.ca).

» Greenhouse Gas Initiative

The Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) and BC Hydro have launched a joint effort to improve the design, construction and operation of buildings. The intent is to help reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of buildings in British Columbia through energy conservation. “Buildings account for 30 per cent of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions. There’s an opportunity to dramatically reduce these levels by improving the way we design, build, operate and occupy our buildings,” says Thomas Mueller, President and CEO of the CaGBC. “The key is a cross-sector commitment and collaboration.” The two organizations will work together to: develop customer-focused programs for energy conservation for buildings; increase the number and skill level of industry professionals focused on energy efficiency through joint training programs; create demonstration projects featuring sustainable communities and energy infrastructure; and look for opportunities to promote the LEED® green building rating system in conjunction with Power Smart. For more information, visit www.cagbc.org.

» Exemplary Waste Diversion Projects Wanted

As part of Buildex Vancouver 2009 this coming February, Metro Vancouver’s BuildSmart program is preparing a seminar on the topic of waste reduction initiatives on construction and renovation sites. The purpose is to highlight exemplary waste reduction initiatives on construction projects by profiling two local projects that have achieved high waste diversion rates. The format of the session will be a panel discussion involving the building owner, architect, general contractors and waste hauler. AIBC members are invited to submit projects fitting this description to be profiled at the conference. It can be either a Metro Vancouver commercial construction or renovation project, ongoing or completed, that has achieved a waste diversion rate of at least 70% and targeting the recycling of all Metro Vancouver materials banned from disposal (visit http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solidwaste/disposal/Pages/bannedmaterials.aspx).

For further information or to make a submission, contact:

Valliant Tang
Project Engineer - Sustainable Business Services Division
Metro Vancouver's Policy and Planning Department
Phone: (778) 452-2616
E-mail: vaillant.tang@metrovancouver.org

» Vancouver Operating Budget Consultations

Each year, the City of Vancouver consults residents and businesses about important decisions. If you are interested in participating in the city’s 2009 Operating Budget consultation, please register on the City of Vancouver website here. Those who sign up will be registering for the budget consultation only, and any private information requested will only be used for contact purposes. For additional information regarding the city’s EcoDensity Charter and Initial Actions, please visit the EcoDensity website at www.vancouver.ca/ecodensity.

» Where’s The Square?

Public squares form the heart of many great cities around the world. When well-designed, they provide a central location for accessible, year-round activity. They are engines of cultural and local economy, as well as the spatial realization of democratic principles. Vancouver has a number of public squares scattered throughout the city but is missing the type of “grand public square” that could – and should - act as a centre point for civic life. With that in mind, the Vancouver Public Space Network has launched a public competition aimed at generating ideas about where such a square might be located in the city, and what it might look like. The official design brief and evaluation criteria was posted on November 15 with a submission deadline of March 15, 2009. A speaker series, panel discussions and public forums will be held during that time period. Note: This will be a competition for the best ideas, not necessarily the best drawings. For more information, visit http://vancouverpublicspace.ca/index.php/campaigns/urbandesign/index.php?page=wts
or e-mail info@vancouverpublicspace.ca.

» PlanRoom Workshop in PG

The British Columbia Construction Association – North hosting a Lunch & Learn workshop on Friday, February 6, 2009 in Prince George. Titled “How To Make The Online PlanRoom Work For You”, it will be facilitated by Dave Robertson from Infinite Source Vancouver. This workshop is an opportunity for architects to learn more about PlanRoom software and its many features including bidding, pre-qualifications, shop drawings and submittals. The workshop takes place 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Ramada Hotel in downtown Prince George. The cost is $17.00. To register, please visit http://www.nbcca.bc.ca/files/2009%20Feb%206%20Registration%20Online%20Planroom%20course%20Ramada.pdf

» Home Builders Educational Forum

AIBC registrants are invited to attend the upcoming Home Builders’ Educational Forum, hosted by the Fraser Valley Home Builders Association. “Getting Ready for Code Green” takes place Tuesday, February 3 at the Ramada Plaza & Conference Centre, 36035 North Parallel Road, Abbotsford. Featured presentations include:

• Exploring Air Tightness in Residential Construction (Murray Frank, Constructive Home Solutions Inc on behalf of the Homeowner Protection Office)
• Economic Issues in Today’s Real Estate Market (Jennifer Podmore, Managing Partner - MPC Intelligence)
• Research & Experiences Building to Green Standards for Affordability, and Marketing ‘Green’ (Ryan Scott, President & C.E.O - Avalon Master Builder)

Afternoon discussion groups will examine windows, insulation, mechanical, and “building green”. The home building industry is changing, and business success is related to how well you can adapt to change. Spend a day “Getting Ready for Code Green”. For more information and to register, visit http://www.fvhba.com/

» Revit Training Session

Summit Technologies is offering a Revit Architecture Essentials Training class next week. It takes place Wednesday – Friday, January 28-30, 2009. The fee is $975 (multiple registration discounts are available), and the location is #280 - 1820 Fir Street, Vancouver. These Summit sessions provide high quality training with individual attention from industry experts with many years of BIM implementation experience. Please contact bob@summitaec.com or jordon@summitaec.com, or visit www.summitaec.com for further information and to register.

» Interior Design Show West (IDSWest)

The IDSWest web site (www.idswest.com) is now live and will be constantly updated with features, speakers, design news and happenings from a West Coast perspective. Planning is well underway for the event, which takes place September 17 - 20, 2009 at the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre. The 2009 show will introduce a variety of space concepts and feature areas focusing on pushing the boundaries of local and international design and architecture. Special sections include:

• Designers on the Block – dedicated space for up-and-coming designers, providing an opportunity to get their feet wet by displaying in small, prebuilt structures.
• Stories Behind Design – showcasing the lesser known stories that help shape many of the designs on display.
• Exhibition space at this prestigious trade show is also available.

Contact Jason Heard (jheard@mmart.com to secure your preferred location and take advantage of promotional benefits.

» Rain Making Workshops

With today’s market downturn, being able to both build relationships with existing clients and attract new ones is especially critical. The Canadian Society for Marketing Professional Services invites you to attend “Rain Making: Attract New Clients No Matter What Your Field”. Special guest presenter Ford Harding is founder and president of Harding & Company, a firm specializing in helping architects, consulting engineers, lawyers, accountants, and management consultants win new clients. He is also the author of numerous article as well as three popular books along the same lines. Harding‘s breakfast session, “Getting It”, will explore motivation and sales skills for professionals with attention to goal setting, performance standards and rewards. It will be followed by a half-day workshop titled “Creating Rain Makers”. This interactive session will examine the importance of client-getting skills for a firm’s success, and how to turn professional practitioners into client-getters. Both presentations will be of interest to business development associates, marketers, project architects, engineers and managers, and anyone involved in client relationships.

• Getting It
  7:30 – 9:00 a.m.
  $75 members / $95 non-members
  
• Creating Rain Makers
  9:15 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

$225 members / $325 non-members

Both sessions take place on Friday, January 30, 2009, at the Empire Landmark Hotel, 1400 Robson Street, Vancouver. For more information and to register, go to www.csmps.com.

» Heritage Vancouver Society: An Evening at the Penthouse

Join Heritage Vancouver for an evening of entertainment at Vancouver’s historic Penthouse (est. 1947). Step back in time with Danny Filippone’s famous behind-the-scenes tour of this famous Vancouver landmark. Following the tour, enjoy a presentation by University of British Columbia Professor Becki Ross titled "Busting the Union Shop Hookers: The Penthouse and Prostitution Politics, 1975-1985". Plan to make an evening of it; after the tour and talk, enjoy dinner, drinks and a performance. It takes place January 29, 2009. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.; tours at 6:15 p.m. and 6:45 p.m.; Presentation at 7:1 5p.m. Advance tickets are $20 ($15 for Heritage Vancouver members) and can be purchased online. For additional information, contact info@heritagevancouver.org or visit http://www.heritagevancouver.org/.

» Statistics Canada Conference on Immigration and Diversity

Monday February 23, 2009

Statistics Canada invites you to attend Diversity Matters, a one-day conference featuring a panel of high-profile experts who will explore the changes, trends and implications of ethno-cultural diversity and immigration for Canada, British Columbia and Metro Vancouver. Presentation topics include: 2006 census highlights; profiles of main ethnic communities in B.C.; the changing diversity composition of the population across sub-provincial regions within B.C.; immigrants and the economy of Metro Vancouver; and implications for diversity and future projections. The keynote speaker will be the Honourable Wally Oppal, B.C. Attorney General and Minster Responsible for Multiculturalism. For more information, please visit the conference website: www.diversitymattersconference.ca.

» Risk Management Workshop

The University of British Columbia and the British Columbia Construction Roundtable are co-sponsoring a Risk Management Workshop for Capital Facilities. The workshop is in response to the growing complexity of today’s capital facilities as well as the increasing array of procurement modes. It will focus on risk identification, quantification (likelihood and impacts), and risk response or mitigation. Unique to this workshop is a hands-on risk identification session in which attendees will develop a risk profile for an elevated transit guideway case study project. Also featured will be the viewpoints of seasoned professionals on cost, legal and insurance matters, including a 20-year+ risk management story line of the Confederation Bridge. The full-day workshop is suitable to anyone in the public or private sectors who is charged with identifying project risks, assessing their relative importance, and allocating them to the most appropriate project participant, including project management personnel, specialty consultants and contractors. It takes place March 19-20, 2009 at the University Golf Club in Vancouver. The registration fee is $995, with an early bird rate of $895 prior to February 14. Register online at http://www.bccr.net/upcoming_events.html. For information, contact Jeannie Bates at jeannie_bates@telus.net.

» Final Call for Papers: 2009 SSAC Conference

January 31, 2009 is the deadline for presentation paper submissions for the Society for the Study of Architecture in Canada’s 2009 Annual Conference, May 20-24 at Ryerson University in Toronto. This annual event provides a forum for the exchange of ideas and knowledge by members from all regions of the country and from the range of disciplines that make up the SSAC’s membership. The theme of this year’s conference is “From Theory into Practice: thinking critically about architecture, history and theory”. Ten sessions are planned, including an open session on current research, and already conference organizers have received a number of very interesting proposals for sessions and panels. Please consider submitting a paper proposal or abstract, or encourage a colleague, student, friend or member of the community whose work would be of interest to the society to participate. Details of the selected sessions can be found on the SSAC website at http://www.canada-architecture.org. Conference registration and details of events and activities will be available after March 1, 2009. For further information, please contact George Thomas Kapelos or Sharon Vattay, 2009 SSAC Conference Co-Chairs, at gkapelos@ryerson.ca or SSAC2009@ryerson.ca

» Kwantlen Polytechnic University Design Students' Grad Showcase

Save the date for the 2009 Kwantlen Polytechnic University Design Students' Grad Showcase: April 22, 2009 in the AIBC Gallery. For the complete invitation, click here.

» Building Sustainable Communities

The Fresh Outlook Foundation is hosting its third annual Building SustainAble Communities conference from February 24 to 26, 2009 at Kelowna's Delta Grand Okanagan Resort. More than 100 speakers from the public, private, non-profit and academic sectors will address a range of topics including sustainable agriculture, sustainable business, and community sustainability. To register online, click here. For more information, go to www.freshoutlookfoundation.org.

» B.C. Real Estate Convention

The 5th B.C. Real Estate Convention 2009 will take place February 26-27 at the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre. This annual event is a unique Western Canada tradeshow created for the professionals and public alike who are interested or engaged in investing in residential or commercial real estate in British Columbia. It brings together a range of different professionals, organizations, associations, and businesses involved in the real estate industry. For interested exhibitors, display booths are sold on a first come-first serve basis. For additional up-to-date information, please visit http://www.bcrealestateconvention.com/.

» CONNIE Awards

The B.C. Ready-Mixed Concrete Association (BCRMCA) is pleased to announce the call for entries in its 4th Annual Awards for Excellence in Concrete Construction (the CONNIEs). The awards honour the vision and creativity of owners, architects, engineers and contractors who are designing and constructing some of the most creative and innovative concrete projects in the province. A panel of industry experts will judge seven award categories with criteria reflecting the realities of the construction business today, including architectural creativity, complexity of engineering design, sustainability, functionality and innovation. To view the Call for Entries and judging criteria, please visit www.bcrmca.ca/awards. For further information, contact Executive Director Carolyn Campbell at (604) 626-4141.

» WAN Awards 09

World Architecture News is pleased to announce the launch of the inaugural WAN Education Sector Award 2009. Following on the success of the third WAN House of the Year Award in 2008, the WAN Education Award is a major international competition that will be judged by a top level panel. Entries will be judged on a number of factors including originality, innovation, form and special quality, sustainability and context. The two areas that will carry the most weight are: how your design addressed the key elements of the brief; and specific examples of how your building has enhanced the education process. If you have designed an educational facility (school, university, college or academy) that has been completed during the last three years, you are invited to submit your entry online. The deadline for entries is February 28, 2009. For more information and to enter, go to http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.educationdetails.

» BC Wood WORKS!

2009 Wood Design Awards

Wood WORKS! BC, a project of the Canadian Wood Council, is now accepting nominations for the 2009 Wood Design Awards. This competition honours excellence in wood-based projects and recognize the people and organizations that are pioneering and presenting the use of wood in British Columbia. Nominated projects will showcase the special qualities of wood such as strength, beauty, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. The award categories include Interior Wood Beauty – Residential; Residential’ Green Building; Multi-unit Residential; Commercial; Institutional Wood Design; Western Red Cedar Award – Residential; Western Red Cedar Award – Non- residential; Industry Leader; Architect; Engineer; Wood Champion; and a new category for Interior Wood Beauty – Commercial. The deadline for submissions is Friday, February 6, 2008. Projects commissioned after January 2006 will be accepted. For additional information and nomination forms, visit http://www.wood-works.org/BC%20Wood%20WORKS/BC%20Gala/?Language=EN or contact Event Coordinator Lorna Malone by e-mail (lmalone@wood-works.ca) or phone (1-877-929-9663, ext 4).

» To BEEP or not to BEEP?

For those registrants wishing to complete the AIBC’s Building Envelope Education Program (BEEP), now is your chance. Follow the link to our Professional Development web page and check out the scheduled dates as well as the course descriptions. These courses are only offered once a year, so don’t miss out. Send in your completed registration form today. The next offering is: BEEP Module IV - Friday, February 20, 2009.

» BEEP Module I:

Building Science and the Building Envelope (Available Online)

Topics for Module I include:

• The Outdoor and Indoor Environment
• Conditions Within the Envelope
• Materials and Their Moisture Content
• Rain Penetration
• Pressure Differences Due to Wind
• Predicting Building Envelope Performance

For more information, please contact Professional Development Coordinator Catherine Bolter at cbolter@aibc.ca or at (604) 683-8588, extension 312.

18 Core LUs

»

The AIBC 2009 PD/CES Course Schedule and Registration Form are available online at www.aibc.ca/member_resources/professional_dev/index.html

9th Annual Consultant/Contractor/Owner Workshop

This SICA workshop, which calls for input from all partners of the construction process, will be of interest to architects, designers, contractors, builders and owners. Session topics include:

• Interpreting CCDC2, BCDC2, and CCA1
• Tendering Law
• Online Bidding
• Builders Liens

It takes place February 4, 2009, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Coast Capri Hotel, Kelowna. For more information, or to register, please visit http://www.sica.bc.ca/cco2009.pdf.

6 Core LUs

Wine Cellar Seminar

The BC Wood Specialties Group invites AIBC registrants to attend an informative seminar on British Columbia’s value-added wood industry. It will focus on “How to Specify a Wine Cellar”, including:

• How to build a wine cellar envelope
• Insulation and r-values
• Finishing products
• Flooring types
• Wine cellar lighting and cooling
• Best BC wood species for wine cellar construction
• Why “green” products are best suited to wine cellars

The event will be hosted by BC Wood and Vin de Garde Cellar Systems, and will include a wine-and-cheese reception. It takes place Wednesday, January 28, 2009, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the Vin de Garde Wine Cellar Systems Showroom, Design Centre & Wine Tasting Room, 112 West 2nd Avenue, Vancouver. There is no charge for this event. However, space is limited so please r.s.v.p. in advance to Roy Manion at rmanion@bcwood.com.

1 Core LU

» Cascadia Region Green Building Council

LEED Canada Workshop NC 1.1

LEED-NC recognizes buildings that incorporate design, construction and operational practices that combine healthy, high quality and high-performance systems and materials with reduced environmental impacts. This intensive, one-day workshop provides a technical overview of the LEED Canada-NC 1.1. Gain the knowledge needed to enhance project performance, achieve certification and prepare for the LEED Canada Professional Accreditation Exam.

Tuesday, February 3, 8:30am-5:00pm
SFU Harbour Centre, 515 W. Hastings St, Vancouver

For more information, or to register, please click here.

7.5 Core LUs

» Simon Fraser University City Program

Leading Edge Solutions to House Everyone

Many people are increasingly unable to afford to live in the community where they work. This course explores how to increase housing density and affordability, and focuses on particular challenges such as medium to high-density housing for families with children, existing and emerging housing alternatives, and a range of both market and non-market strategies to achieve results on the ground. There will be walking tours of best practices in existing neighbourhoods and case studies for greenfield, greyfield and brownfield sites. For more information, or to register, please visit http://www.sfu.ca/city/course2popup.htm

February 13-14, 2009, 9am-5:30 pm

14 Non-Core LUs

» MMPI Canada

Early Registration for 2009 BUILDEX Vancouver

The early bird registrations deadline for the 2009 BUILDEX Vancouver Conference & Exposition is Thursday, January 29. AIBC registrants who sign up before then will receive free admission to the BUILDEX tradeshow as well as reduced seminar rates. BUILDEX Vancouver is Western Canada’s largest conference and exhibition for real estate, property management, interior design, architecture, renovation and construction professionals. This event takes place February 11-12 at the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre. It includes Design Northwest, the BC Construction Show and the Homebuilder & Renovator Expo. The conference portion will feature more than 45 sessions and 100 presenters. Workshops have been organized in three distinct seminar streams for construction, design, and property management. Program highlights include an keynote panel on “Architecture and Community Development -- Shaping our Communities for the Future”, moderated by AIBC President David Wilkinson MAIBC and including Alan Boniface MAIBC, Michael Heeney MAIBC, Norm Hotson MAIBC and Sean McEwen MAIBC. Bruce Haden MAIBC will present a case study on the award-winning Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre. There will also be an Interior Design Keynote Panel, moderated by Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia President Jim Toy, to discuss “Design for Change”. Explore the tradeshow floor for the latest products and services. An additional feature, the annual Industry Reception, takes place Wednesday, February 11, 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. and will bring together close to 600 professionals for prime networking opportunities. BUILDEX Vancouver is of interest to architects, designers, property managers, real estate professionals, building owners, contractors, builders, developers, and anyone else in the design and construction industry. For detailed information and to register, visit www.buildexvancouver.com.

Core and Non-Core LUs Available

» Construction Specifications Canada

Construction Contract Administration

This course is designed for those individuals involved in construction administration, including contract administrators, property managers, architects, engineers, interior designers, specification consultants, building authorities, and bonding and insurance agencies. It begins on January 12, 2009. To register, please fax in the registration form.

13 Core LUs

Technical Representative

The Technical Representative course (formerly CTR Level 2) will provide a better understanding of contract documents and bidding procedures, product representation, professionalism, and ethics. It will also afford a new depth of understanding and explanation of concepts beyond what was previously introduced. The course begins on January 12, 2009. To register, please fax in the registration form.

13 Core LUs

CSC January Breakfast Meeting

Topic: The Future of Transportation in Metro Vancouver or How to Spend $15 Billion

Presented by Gary Vlieg, M.Sc., P. Eng., Manager, Road and Infrastructure Planning. Translink is the agency responsible for planning, funding and building the road and transit network for Metro Vancouver. As one of the major gateways between Asia and North America, it is critical that the region’s transportation infrastructure maintains and enhances economic competitiveness on the world market. The recently announced Provincial Transit Plan, as well as provincial initiatives on Green House Gas reductions, have given an even greater impetus to the work that TransLink does. This presentation will cover current projects as well as discuss those on the horizon. This includes SkyTrain expansion, Rapid Bus BC, rehabilitation and expansion of Expo Line stations, Pattullo Bridge, the Roberts Bank Rail Corridor grade separations and the North Fraser Perimeter Road. For details or to register, please visit http://www.csc-vancouver.ca/meeting_schedule.htm.

1.5 Non-core LUs

» APEGBC Professional Development Seminars

Time Management
Are you feeling caught between a clock and a hard place? We are now in the "value era", a hyper-competitive world where clients are demanding more from companies and, in turn, companies are demanding more from their people. This is a proven, practical and principle-based workshop in which the participants develop time management strategies and systems that are right for their personality types and job functions. It takes place February 5, 2009 in Victoria. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/timemgmt_victoria_09.html.

Fee: $460.95

7 Non-core LUs

IStructE Examination Preparation Seminar & Workshop

This two-day session will provide an opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the IStructE examination, allowing participants to determine whether or not this is the route they wish to pursue. For those already signed up to challenge the exam, this seminar and workshop will provide insight into the contents as well as tips for success. It will be presented by past candidates who have successfully completed the exam. Sessions take place February 6 - 7, 2009 in Vancouver, BC. The fee for both seminar and workshop is $555.45; seminar or workshop only is $299.25. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/istructe.html.

12.5 Non-core LUs

Introduction to Business Writing: The Importance of Written Words in Proposals

Learn to write clearly and concisely in a business context. Understand the key elements of a well-written proposal. This seminar is designed to help develop the confidence necessary to excel in ones proposal writing - writing that is both direct and proficient. It takes place February 10, 2009 in Vancouver. The session fee is $450.45. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/intro_business_writing.html.

6 Non-core LUs

Advanced Business Writing: The Importance of Written Words in Proposals

Interested in learning to write a compelling proposal that clearly and concisely articulates the core benefits for a client? Curious to know what to look for in a Request for Proposals? Through this series of hands-on workshops, gain feedback on your writing and develop the confidence necessary for RFP success. The fee is $450.45. For the February 11 2009 workshop in Vancouver, register at http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/adv_business_writing.html. For the April 21, 2009 workshop in Burnaby, go to http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/adv_business_writing_bby.html.

6 Non-core LUs

Practical Intellectual Property Strategies

This seminar will give participants an overview of intellectual property concepts while explaining, comparing and contrasting legal protection for trade secrets, copyright, trademarks and patents. The session fee is $242.74. It takes place February 13, 2009 in Vancouver. You can also participate via webcast. For more information and to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/intellectual_property.html.

3.25 Non-core LUs

Expert Witness

At some point in your professional career you may be called upon to write an expert report or testify in a trial. Are you fully aware of what will be expected? This seminar will discuss the factors to consider before agreeing to deliver expert witness testimony, as well as the benefits and risks of doing so. It takes place February 26, 2009 in Vancouver. You can also participate via webcast. The session fee is $219.45. For more information, or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/expert_witness_dec08.html.

3 Non-core LUs

» University of Victoria Cultural Resource Management Program

Downtown Revitalization through Heritage Conservation, On-Campus Offering

Historic urban districts provide a valuable resource for sustainable urban and community renewal as well as economic and tourism development while contributing to our “sense of place.” Through an analysis of approaches to revitalization as well as case studies and applied site visits, participants will build their understanding of the issues facing Victoria’s historic downtown and neighbourhood commercial districts, and also develop innovative strategies that meet sustainable heritage conservation goals while realizing community and social benefits. This course runs from February 23 – 28, 2009. Please register by January 26, 2009 (late registrations will only be accepted if space permits). For detailed course information or to register, please visit http://www.uvcs.uvic.ca/crmp/courses/ha489a-downtown.aspx. For a complete list of upcoming courses offered through the University of Victoria’s Cultural Resource Management Program, please visit http://www.uvcs.uvic.ca/crmp/upcoming.aspx.

36 Non-core LUs

» Pacific Business and Law Institute (PBLI)

Construction Contracts: Practical Guidelines to Prevent Costly Mistakes

In today’s market, there is no room for error in construction contracts. A small contractual oversight can end up costing a significant amount of money in litigation at a later stage. From identifying the critical issues in a construction contract to resolving construction disputes, you need to be informed and prepared. This event will provide you with current, practical advice for addressing challenges at all stages of the contractual process. It takes place on January 27, 2009, at the Renaissance Vancouver Hotel Harbourside, Vancouver. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.pbli.com/744/ or download the full brochure at http://pbli.com/conferences/conferences/744/documents/ConstructionBrochure.pdf

7 Core LUs

» Upcoming Exhibit: IDIBC Awards Gala & Exhibition

The Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia’s invites you to attend its annual awards gala, Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre. The evening includes the presentation of the IDIBC Awards of Excellence for 2008 followed by a reception. The cost is $40 for members, $50 for non-members. Tickets are limited; please r.s.v.p. by February 2. For more information, visit the IDIBC web site, e-mail info@idibc.org or call (604) 298-5211.

The IDIBC Awards of Excellence recognize those who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in interior design and architecture. Following the awards gala, winning submissions will be featured in the AIBC Gallery from February 24 - March 19, 2009. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, February 26, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at the gallery, located at #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver.

Advance reservations are required. Please email communications@aibc.ca.

» Current Exhibit: David Marshall Sculptures

January 7 – February 19, 2009
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver

This exhibit features the work of Vancouver sculptor David Marshall (1928 – 2006). The installation consists of 17 of Marshall’s most meticulously crafted sculptures in stone, bronze and wood - including three bronzes never before displayed. Marshall’s remarkable legacy has received limited public exhibition and exposure. While largely unrecognized in his home country, his work has been exhibited and installed in Europe, Mexico and the United States. The exhibition will be held jointly with the launch of a new book, The Life and Art of David Marshall, by Monika Ullmann.

» Marking the End of 'The Bilbao Decade'

Times dictate a shift away from vanity projects

By Robert Campbell, Boston Globe
Sunday, January 11, 2009

Have we reached the climax and termination of a whole era in architecture? An era you might dub "The Bilbao Decade"? I'll explain about Bilbao later. But first two news items. Between them, they bracket the present moment. "The downturn is spreading. It's getting worse. It hasn't hit bottom yet," says Kermit Baker, the American Institute of Architects' chief economist. Another journal suggests that for American architects "there may be nothing to do but wait and pray." More …

» The Man Behind Calgary's Troubled Bridge

Architect Santiago Calatrava - chosen to build a controversial footbridge over the Bow River - is noted around the world for his brilliance and hefty cost overruns.

By Jason Markusoff, Calgary Herald
Sunday, January 18, 2009

"It's beautiful! It's beautiful!" the architect proclaimed as he kept bringing his camera to his face to take shot after wide-angled shot. Santiago Calatrava was transfixed by Calgary's corporate skyline, the Bow River's rush against time and ice jams, skyscrapers' reflected lights dancing on the water. As he snapped photos, an assistant jotted notes with as much persistence. Then, over coffee at downtown's Teatro, as he discussed technical specifics of the iconic pedestrian bridge he's agreed to design, Calatrava grabbed a napkin from the table. In short strokes, Calatrava began sketching. More …

» Is the Architecture of Dubai Socially Responsive?

Construction Week
Monday, January 19, 2009

The ‘Mecca of Architecture’ that is Dubai seems to be at the forefront in terms of the development of new, fascinating glass boxes. Saddled with one third of the world’s construction cranes, the building frenzy has engulfed the entire region. Attracting new developments like ‘World’s biggest airport’,’ World’s tallest structure’, amusement parks and shopping malls, the message is clear: If you dream about it, Dubai has an answer for it. While the rest of world seems stagnant in terms of the birth of new buildings, Dubai continues to announce new projects which strike awe and stimulate the imaginations of people across the globe. Dubai has become the new global icon of engineered urbanism—complete with its Western lifestyle, sandy beaches, property-rights regime, sleazy cars and waterfront properties. More …

» A Boom in Office Towers in Calgary

By Linda Baker, New York Times
Tuesday, January 20, 2009

When the Bow, an office tower under construction in downtown Calgary, is completed in 2011, the 58-story building will be the tallest structure in Canada west of Toronto. Designed by the London architecture firm Foster & Partners, the Bow is to have a crescent-shaped exterior, three floors of indoor green spaces for employees to enjoy and passive solar orientation to reduce energy use. Its cost is about 1 billion Canadian dollars, equal to about $800 million. More …

» VERICO Ellis Mortgages Canada - Mortgage Discount Program

VERICO Ellis Mortgages Canada is one of our newest partners in the AIBC’s Registrant Benefits Program (Club AIBC). EMC is one of the largest independent mortgage representatives in the country, and recipient of the “Mortgage Broker of the Year" award in 2007. Through Club AIBC, EMC is now offering both registrants and staff the benefit of its corporate mortgage discount program.

As part of the discussions to establish this relationship, the folks at EMC also offered to provide a free lunchtime information session for anyone who might be interested. We have taken them up on their offer.

The information session is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. in the large boardroom. An EMC representative will be on hand to present an overview of their services, including mid-term interest rate reductions and home equity lines of credit. If you are thinking about taking out a new mortgage, or wondering how to restructure your existing one, you might find this very beneficial. Lunch will be provided.

If you are planning to attend, please confirm in advance to Ama Joppa (amaj@emcmortgages.ca).