Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Tues Oct 2 Research in Progress Lunchtime Discussion on Appointee Vacancies in American Government, 1989-2009

Please join us next Tuesday October at 12pm for the first Research in Progress Lunchtime Discussion. The details:

“Who Isn’t Running Government: Appointee Vacancies in American Government, 1989-2009”

Matt Dull and Patrick Roberts
CPAP
--
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
12:00-1:00pm
3rd Floor Library, 1021 Prince Street

To join via conference-call,
please RSVP to ajaimy@vt.edu

Dial-in Number: (712) 432-0075
Access Code: # 134296

Housing Paper Competition with $1K Prize, Submissions Due by Oct 15

Housing Policy Debate (HPD) announces a paper competition for authors presenting housing-related papers at the upcoming 2012 Association of Collegiate Schools of Planning conference to be held November 1–4 in Cincinnati, Ohio. The competition will be judged by the HPD associate editors. The winning author(s) will be announced at the conference and awarded $1,000 by HPD. To enter, submit your completed paper directly to HPD at HousingPolicyDebate@gmail.com by October 15, 2012. The HPD instructions for authors can be found at www.informaworld.com/rhpd.

Sept 30 Daniel Burnham Forum on Big Ideas

From the National Building Museum:

"Daniel Burnham Forum on Big Ideas: International Trends, Domestic Impacts
Sunday, September 30, 5:30 - 6:30 pm

"Take your head out of the sand –global conditions do affect the U.S.” These thought-provoking words are from Professor Eugenie L. Birch, FAICP, the next featured speaker in the American Planning Association’s Daniel Burnham Forum on Big Ideas. As U.S. planners confront the key issues outlined by the presidents of AIA, ASLA, and APA, in the inaugural lecture, they will find that international trends affect the domestic scene in tangible ways. 1.0 LU HSW (AIA) / 1.0 CM (AICP) / 1.0 LA CES (ASLA) 

$10 Museum and APA Members; $10 Students; $15 Non-members.
Register now. "

Job Oppty: University of Virginia, Assistant Professor Transportation Planning

From the ACSP listserve:

"Mon, 09/10/2012 - 3:32pm — ddodd
Reference: JOB36529
Application deadline: 1 week 3 days 4 hours 48 minutes

The Department of Urban and Environmental Planning invites applications for a tenure track
nine-month faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin August 25, 2013.
We are seeking candidates who can play a leadership role in the department in the area of
Transportation Planning. Areas of potential interest relating to transportation and planning could include transportation history, transportation and urban form/urban design, travel behavior, transportation policy, infrastructure finance, sustainability/energy, transit-oriented development, health and transportation, the design of walkable and healthy neighborhoods, social justice, multi-modal transportation, or analytic methods.

A PhD in planning is required or a related field with a prior degree in planning or related
experience or publications is required. Candidates must show evidence of scholarly activity or promise of significant scholarship, an ability to teach both graduate and undergraduate students, and conduct research or engage in reflective professional practice. Publications commensurate with one's academic and professional career stage are essential."

DC Office of Planning, AIA-DC Cohost Citizen Planner Forum on October 4th

From the YIPPS Listserve:

"As a follow up to this summer’s Citizen Planner focus groups, the DC Office of Planning (OP) and the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) DC Advocacy Committee invite the public to the Citizen Planner Forum on October 4th from 6:30 to 8:00pm at the District Architecture Center, 421 7th Street, NW. Launched in July 2012, OP’s Citizen Planner initiative engaged District residents in conversations to provide their feedback on questions such as: what do residents care about most when it comes to where they live? Are there ways that government agencies and private developers can improve on how they engage residents to discuss proposed projects and improvements? How can DC residents get more involved in improving their neighborhoods? The four focus groups brought together a cross-section of District residents who spoke openly and candidly about life in the District and in their neighborhoods. Focus group feedback was broad and varied, displaying an interest in topics such as movable furniture in public space, diversity of housing types, and making community engagement fun.

The October 4th Citizen Planner Forum will include a panel discussion with four residents who participated in the focus groups; a presentation on new ways to engage the public in development projects; and an overview of new approaches to citizen engagement in building healthy neighborhoods. The AIA also will present its Citizen Architecture initiative to attendees.

To register for the Citizen Planner Forum or for more information about OP’s Citizen Planner Initiative, please contact Deborah Crain-Kemp at 202.442.7615 or DeborahLCrain.Kemp@dc.gov."

Tenure Track Position at East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina

Via the Planet Listserve:

"The Urban and Regional Planning Program in the Department of Geography, East Carolina University, is seeking to fill a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor beginning August 2013. The successful candidate will teach core planning courses and electives at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Primary research and teaching interests are sought in environmental planning, coastal planning and management, or landscape and land use planning. Ph.D. in planning or related field required. Preference for candidates with teaching experience, a productive publication record, and evidence of funded research potential. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. The Urban and Regional Planning Program (http://www.ecu.edu/plan/) offers a B.S. degree in urban and regional planning.

To apply, complete a candidate profile and submit a letter of application, description of teaching interests and research agenda, names for three letters of reference, and curriculum vitae online

at www.jobs.ecu.edu (vacancy # 936419). For questions, contact Dr. Tom Allen, search committee chair, allenth@ecu.edu or 252-328-6624. Screening will begin November 7, 2012. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. East Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action University that accommodates individuals with disabilities. Proper documentation of identity and employability is required at the time of employment

* Applicants should apply via the ECU Human Resources page at http://ecu.peopleadmin.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=69796"

Rappahannock-Rapidan Regional Commission Annual Meeting on Oct 10

Via the APA Virginia Listserve:


"Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Tuscany Hall
21125 Kettle Club Road  Culpeper, VA 22701
5:30pm Registration and Cash Bar, 6:30pm Dinner, 7:30 Speaker Program
$35 by October 3, $45 thereafter

In addition to once again meeting at beautiful Tuscany Hall this year, we will be joined by Keynote Speaker:

Dr. Allan Wallis
Associate Professor of Public Policy, University of Colorado at Denver
“The Challenges and Payoffs of Regional Cooperation”
                1.0 APA/AICP CM Credit 

Please accept this cordial invitation to join us for an evening of fun, delicious food, and fellowship with colleagues, family and friends.   

For more information, and to reserve a seat:

Please contact Sue Hromyak at shromyak@rrregion.org or 540-829-7450"

Friday, September 21, 2012

MURP Master's International Student Blogs about Peace Corps Assignment in Macedonia

We're pleased to share this great news from the Virginia Tech Institute for Policy and Governance:

MURP graduate student Patrick Burke has arrived in Macedonia for his assignment to do NGO development.  We would like to share his blog where he is telling of his travels and recounting his experience.  He is the first MURP student assigned Macedonia!

Call for Abstracts for the NEHA 2013 AEC

From NEHA:

"Call for Abstracts

The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) presents its 77th Annual Educational Conference (AEC) & Exhibition, July 9-11, 2013 in the Washington, DC area. NEHA is currently seeking abstracts for the AEC that bring the latest advances and unique responses to environmental health and protection problems. This is your opportunity impart knowledge that helps advance and motivate environmental health professionals.

Simultaneous training and educational sessions are offered at the conference covering over 20 different environmental health topics. NEHA offers two different types of learning environments at the AEC—Lectures and Learning Labs. For Lecture sessions, applications for single or multiple speaker presentations are being accepted. For the Learning Lab, NEHA is accepting applications for hands-on demonstrations, tabletop exercises, panel discussions, poster presentations, roundtable discussions, and other types of interactive and innovative presentation formats.

The deadline for submission is October 1, 2012. For additional information and to submit your abstract online, visit neha2013aec.org."

Thursday, September 20, 2012

VDDA Annual Workshop – Asset Based Economic Development In Manassas and Beyond

From the Virginia APA Listserve:

"Thursday, October 11, 2012
830am to 415pm

The Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory
9419 Battle Street
Manassas, Virginia

Asset-Based Economic Development involves the creation of goods and services based on a community’s existing assets, particularly cultural and natural assets.  An Asset-Based strategy enables economic growth in communities typically bypassed by conventional economic development efforts.

VDDA’s Annual Workshop will involve presentations by representatives from Manassas, our host community, and by representatives from other communities around Virginia about creating economic      vibrancy by taking advantage of their local assets, including battlefields and other historic sites, rivers, roads and trails, and farms.  Learn how these efforts also benefit downtowns.

Schedule of Events:
8:30am - Registration and Continental Breakfast

9:00am - Welcome and Introductions
The Honorable Harry J. Parrish, II, City of Manassas

9:30am -  What’s Love Got to Do With It?
The Hon. Mark Wofle, Councilman, City of Manassas
Why asset based economic development?  Councilmember Mark Wolfe introduces the City of Manassas and how the arguments were made that arts, entertainment and tourism we worth the investment and how they have paid off in terms of tax benefits to the City. 

10:30am -  Break

10:45am -    The Journey through Hallowed Ground 
Denise Harris, AICP Director, National Scenic Byway, Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership

11:45am - Lunch

12:45pm - Get Lost In Loudoun County
Visit Loudoun—Speaker TBA

1:45pm -  Break

2:00pm -  Fields of Gold
Bonnie Riedesel, Executive Director, Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission

3:00pm -  Break

3:15pm -  Clinch River Initiative and the Crooked Road
Todd Christensen, Executive Director, Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Commission

4:15pm -  Conclusion

A registration form with detailed agenda is also attached.

4 CM / 4 AIA LU’s offered"

October 16-17, 2012: Free Virtual Conference: The Changing Landscape: Forging Forward to Drive Real Impact in Government

News about the upcoming free State and Local Government Summit, sponsored by American City & County
October 16 and 17

"An uneven economic recovery, upcoming elections and the explosion of cloud technology all impact local and state governments — and now is the perfect opportunity to forge forward and leverage the changing landscape to create more efficient and effective operations. Join us for a two-day, virtual conference as we show you how you can embrace a new era of technology to propel state and local government productivity, improve service delivery and drive collaboration. Register Today!"

Virginia Tech's Metropolitan Institute Announces 2012-2013 Visiting Fellows

The Metropolitan Institute at Virginia Tech is pleased to announce its 2012 – 2013 Visiting Fellows. Mariia Zimmerman, Michelle Cullen, and Kim Hodgson will be working with the MI team this year on a variety of projects and collaborations. The Fellows bring a variety of research expertise and professional connectivity to the Metropolitan Institute’s portfolio. Read more about MI and the fellows at: http://www.mi.vt.edu/archives/839.

Faculty Search in Energy Policy

From the Planet Listserve:

"The Ohio State University
College of Engineering/John Glenn School of Public Affairs
Faculty Search in Energy Policy (open rank)

The College of Engineering and the John Glenn School of Public Affairs at the Ohio State University is conducting an open rank search (assistant, associate or full) for a tenure track faculty position in the area of energy policy. Domestic and global energy systems are facing significant opportunities and challenges.  Growing global demands for energy, declining fossil fuel reserves, and concerns over rising greenhouse gas emissions are all impacting energy technologies, economics and policies.  To address these challenges, expertise in the links between engineering and policy is being sought to analyze current and emerging technologies, resources and infrastructure, including alternative energy sources for stationary and mobile applications.  Ideal candidates will have a mix of analytical, economic and policy knowledge in areas such as energy system design, dynamic system modeling, resource economics, optimization, and life cycle analysis.

This is a joint position between the College of Engineering and the John Glenn School of Public Policy Affairs. The tenure initiating unit within the College of Engineering will be in a department based on the candidate’s preference and field of interest. These include Architecture, City and Regional Planning, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Civil, Environmental and Geodetic Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Integrated Systems Engineering, Material Science and Engineering, and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. Further, applicants are expected to articulate clearly their potential intersections with existing faculty research areas, and alignment with one or more centers within the university, such as the Center for Aviation Studies, Subsurface Energy Resource Center, Center for Resilience, Center for Automotive Research, and Battelle Center for Science and Technology.    

Applicants should have completed a Ph.D. in engineering or related interdisciplinary fields such as energy systems analysis, energy planning or energy economics. Desired qualifications include strong fundamentals in an engineering field coupled with expertise in public policy, planning or economics, and recognition of the importance of the interactions between energy policy, technology and engineering. Also required is a distinguished record of scholarship, exceptional potential for world class research, and a commitment to both undergraduate and graduate education. The capacity for interdisciplinary teamwork is essential.

Successful candidates will be expected to effectively teach in both the prospective engineering department’s undergraduate and graduate programs and the John Glenn School of Public Affairs, and to develop a nationally recognized research program to support of the university’s energy initiative.

Columbus is the 15th largest city in the country and in a metropolitan area of 1.8 million people. Columbus offers a high quality of life, with affordable housing in vibrant neighborhoods, quality public schools, and economic prosperity. We are a region that celebrates diversity and we are consistently rated as one of the best places to live in the country for African-Americans, gays/lesbians, and families.

Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2012 and will continue until the position is filled. Please submit a cover letter, CV, statement of teaching and research interests, research sample, and names and contact information of three references in one pdf document to David Farrell at farrell.55@osu.edu To build a diverse workforce, Ohio State encourages applications from minorities, veterans, women and individuals with disabilities. EEO/AA employer. Ohio State in an NSF ADVANCE Institution."

2012 PlanVirginia Commonwealth Planning and Zoning Conference Registration Reminder

From CPEAV:

"Conference News Update!

The LODGING DEADLINE has been extended from September 17th to the 21st. 

The 2012 CPEAV annual October Land Use and Zoning conference will be held in Lynchburg beginning Sunday evening October 7, and concludes at noon on October 9th. Our meeting location will be the Lynchburg Holiday Inn Select located on Main Street in downtown. On behalf of the CPEAV, it is my hope you can join us in Lynchburg next month. We believe the conference will provide excellent insight regarding key issues facing planning commissioners and localities alike.

Need more info?  CLICK HERE
to view the full conference agenda, lodging and registration information, and register today! 

Please share this information with your fellow planning commissioners as well as planning staff. Note also that lodging reservations at the Lynchburg Holiday Inn Select for October 7 and/or 8 must be made no later than September 21 to secure the $80 single or double lodging rate. The hotel phone number is 434-528-2500. The group reservation code you will need to share with the reservation agent is CPA.

See you at the conference!"

Placemaking & Revitalizing Neighborhoods on Oct. 3 - Free 1.0 CM Credit

From the YIPPS listserve; event includes UAP's Joe Schilling as speaker:

"Just sharing this free event Arlington Economic Development is hosting on Wed., Oct. 3 from 6-8 pm at Artisphere (1101 Wilson Blvd) - should be very interesting & a nice chance to visit Artisphere if you haven't already. A brief description is below; click here for more info & to register.

The Artisphere exhibition “Beyond the Parking Lot: The Change and Re-assessment of our Modern Landscape” has generated plenty of media attention locally and nationwide for its unique perspective. “Each piece could be centerpiece for a devoted exhibition,” reviewed the Huffington Post. “The artists assembled are nailing down the point that our society, built as it was around the automobile, is beginning to show wear, at least in terms of its infrastructure and environment. Dyed-in-the-wool urbanists may already know the answer to this show’s question — are parking lots bad? — but even they might appreciate a demonstration that looks beyond charts and graphs” noted the Washington City Paper.
Now, those who want to learn more about this unique exhibit and the ramifications of urban revitalization can do so with “Placemaking and Revitalizing Neighborhoods: Going ‘Beyond the Parking Lot’” After a tour of the exhibition with Artisphere’s curator Cynthia Connolly, attendees will hear from Joe Schilling, a professor with the Urban Affairs and Planning department at Virginia Tech, who will offer commentary on the exhibit and provide context on how communities are confronting the design, planning, and policy tensions in regenerating neighborhoods and transforming derelict buildings and spaces. Schilling will also share some of his photographs and reflect on his experience working with nonprofits, local officials, and community groups. A reception will follow. Learn more about the exhibit."

Two Faculty Positions at the University of Michigan

From the Planet Listserve:

"The Urban and Regional Planning program of the University of Michigan is seeking to fill two faculty positions to begin in September 2013.

Position 1: Tenure-Track Faculty Member in Sustainability and Behavior (UM Job Posting No. 74868):
The Urban and Regional Planning program is seeking a specialist in land-use planning and policy at the rank of Assistant Professor. We particularly invite applications from candidates whose research and teaching address behavior relevant to the production and functioning of the built environment and the conservation of the natural environment at both the individual level (e.g., lifestyle, consumption behaviors, conservation behaviors, political action) and the institutional level (policy formation and institutional design). The faculty member appointed through this hire will teach primarily in the graduate planning curricula, although the ability to teach at both undergraduate and graduate levels is a plus.

This new position is part of a larger, university-wide junior faculty initiative to develop clusters of expertise in selected interdisciplinary areas.   This Urban and Regional Planning position will substantively link to others in sustainability and behavior in the School of Natural Resources and Environment and the Ford School of Public Policy.  Applicants should consult the full cluster proposal for this position, available at http://taubmancollege.umich.edu/planning/faculty/search/ 

A graduate degree in planning or a closely related field, such as geography, environmental studies, urban design, or law, is required.  Candidates without an urban planning degree will be expected to demonstrate background in the urban planning field.  A Ph.D. in urban planning or a closely related field is highly desired. The demonstrated ability to conduct academic research is required, and demonstrated engagement with interdisciplinary collaboration is highly desired. Candidates should have a record of teaching, scholarship, publication and/or several years of related professional experience.

The candidate hired through this initiative will be expected to contribute to core courses in the graduate Urban and Regional Planning Program curriculum and to courses in one or more concentration areas: land-use and environmental planning; physical planning and design; transportation planning; planning in developing countries; and housing, community and economic development.  The candidate hired through this initiative is expected to collaborate both with the “Sustainability and Behavior” cluster faculty hired in the other units and with other faculty within Taubman College.

Position 2: Tenured or Tenure-Track Faculty Member (UM Job Posting No. 74883)
The Urban and Regional Planning program invites applications for a tenured or tenure-track position open to any rank. We seek a candidate who can contribute to core courses in the graduate Urban and Regional Planning Program curriculum and to courses in one or more concentration areas (housing, community and economic development; land-use and environmental planning; physical planning and design; planning in developing countries; and transportation planning). We especially seek someone who can teach and conduct research related to one or both of the following concentrations: planning in developing countries; land-use and environmental planning.

A Ph.D. in urban planning or a closely related field, such as geography, environmental studies, social work, or public policy, is highly desired, as are a demonstrated ability to attract external funding, and an interest and ability to establish relationships internationally.  A record of close associations with planning practice (e.g., professional collaborations, consulting, advocacy, or studios) or expertise in qualitative methods is an advantage. Applicants seeking a rank higher than Assistant Professor will be expected to take an active leadership role and should demonstrate past success in administration, student mentoring,   and generation of external funding, and a distinguished record of research, scholarship, teaching, and service consistent with a senior-level appointment.

Applicants for either position should send the following materials electronically as a single PDF file, organized as follows: (1) a letter explaining your interest in the position (outlining both teaching and research agendas); (2) a current curriculum vita; and (3) the names and contact information (including mailing address, phone number, and email address) for three references. Email the application to Taubman College Human Resources at taubmanhr@umich.edu, indicating the desired position and Job Posting number in the subject line.

The Urban and Regional Planning Program is a large and expanding program, with about 20 faculty, 130 MUP students and 15 doctoral students in residence.  For further information about the program, visit our web site: http://taubmancollege.umich.edu/planning/

Review of applications will begin December 1, 2012, and will continue until the positions are filled. 
               
Mission Statement
               
For over 100 years the mission of A. Alfred Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning at the University of Michigan has been to prepare students for positions of responsibility within a wide spectrum of professions, organizations, and institutions whose goals are to improve the quality of our lives in the natural and built environment. The college offers a complement of programs, ranging from undergraduate to doctoral degrees in Architecture, Urban and Regional Planning, and Urban Design. 
               
U-M EEO/AA Statement
               
The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer."

Friday, September 14, 2012

New Videos on Urban Planning, Development from Distressed Cities Conference


A progressive, generative, interdisciplinary exchange
SPIA initiates Ridenour Faculty Fellowship conference & research series.
A different conference format generating new approaches to the 
pressing problems of our time.

Virginia Tech’s School of Public and International Affairs initiates a conference and research series promoting interdisciplinary discussion.

The purpose is to push through disciplinary limitations in understanding social phenomena and to suggest solutions to problems.

The first conference took place in April 2012 and focused on distressed cities.

Our approach is twofold.  First we advance a progressive, interdisciplinary exchange during each Ridenour Faculty Fellowship conference.  Second, we build a research network between scholars, artists, and practitioners aimed at generating insights for practice and publications from research inspired by the conferences.

Robert Beauregard, Columbia University, Talks About Depopulation and the Promise of Growth
John Provo, Virginia Tech, Talks About Development and Density
Margaret Cowell, Virginia Tech, Talks About Resilience
Derek Hyra, Virginia Tech, Talks About Displacement, Development and Extrapolation
Yang Zhang, Virginia Tech, Talks About Urban Planning Solutions and Culture
...and others.

Visit our website to subscribe to updates,
including news about our forthcoming edited volume on Distressed Cities and also our next Ridenour conference in 2013.

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

CAUS 50th Anniv Icon Competition Submission Date Extended to Sept 17

The deadline for registering and submitting entries to the College of Architecture and Urban Studies (CAUS) 50th Anniversary Icon Competition has been extended to September 17, 2012.

The competition is open to current CAUS students, faculty, staff, alumni, and former faculty and staff, as individuals or teams only.  UAP is a member program of CAUS.

Learn more at http://www.50years.caus.vt.edu/competition/.

InnovationCity Ruhr Event on Sept 26 Highlights Green Living

From the German Cultural Events newsletter:
"Bottrop Innovation City is planned to be a showpiece for green living. This project aims to transform Bottrop into a low-energy, eco-friendly urban space. Join the discussion with Mayor Bernd Tischler and environmental planner Dale Medearis." (Dale is a UAP alum)

Wednesday, Sept 26, 2012
Washington, DC
Discussion and Interview Noon - 2 pm
Free; learn more about this event at http://www.germany.info/Vertretung/usa/en/__events/Wash/2012/09/26-Bottrop.html

2012 Virginia Environmental Assembly on Oct 19-20 in Arlington

Theme: "Building for the 21st Century"
Sponsored by the Virginia Conservation Network

Read more and register at http://vcnva.org/anx/index.cfm/0,417,html

Preservation Virginia Conference Sept 23-25

Preservation Virginia, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, presents the:

Bridging the Gap: Connecting People & Resources to Preserve Virginia's Historic Places

September 23 - 25, 2012
Leesburg, Virginia

Learn more and register at http://preservationvirginia.org/programs/annual-conference

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

2013 7th International Visualization in Transportation Symposium

From Kevin Stewart and the TRB Visualization in Transportation Committee:

2013 7th International Visualization in Transportation Symposium
October 23-25, 2013
Arnold and Mabel Beckman Center of the National Academies of Sciences and Engineering
Irvine, California

"Conference Theme

The theme for the 2013 Symposium “Visualization for Big Data”.  The goal of the 2013 Symposium is to advance innovation in visualization for transportation applications through the exchange of information, to create a collaborative environment that promotes ideas for action that evolves our ability to address those needs, and to foster the integration of visualization into mainstream practice. 

Call for Papers

The website http://www.trbvis.org/ now has a link for submitting papers, and provides information on evaluation criteria and the submittal process.  We encourage interested individuals to submit session topics, presentation ideas, and paper abstracts to be considered for presentation at the 2013 symposium. The conference will be a forum for exchange and dissemination of information related to all applications and modes of visualization in the transportation industry, and the conference planning committee is seeking input on session and presentation topics from visualization experts, transportation professionals, and researchers in all modes and domains. 

Please note that the deadline for submission is January 7, 2013

Symposium Website

A web page has been added providing general information about the symposium.  To access the most up-to-date information on the 2013 Symposium, go to http://www.trbvis.org/visualization-symposium/

Virtual Conference Attendance

The Symposium planning committee understands that many of you have travel restrictions that may prevent you from attending the conference in Irvine.  Preparations are underway  to have both physical and virtual participants and presenters. We may even be able to register iPad buddies – i.e., on site participants who carry around an iPad to interact with virtual  participants who watch presentations online and converse via iPad.  Stay tuned for further developments.

Poster Sessions

In addition to traditional podium session and workshops, we will have the ability to provide electronic poster sessions during the symposium. Imagine a traditional poster session like TRB, where you stand in front of your paper poster and talk about your project. Now imagine doing the same thing in front of a large screen monitor connected to your laptop. You could include animations, simulations, or just run your software live. This provides a more intimate setting to explore specific ideas or techniques in an interactive hands-on discussion."

Monday, September 10, 2012

Derek Hyra’s Shaw/U Street research featured in Summer 2012 Virginia Tech Research magazine

"What happens when upscale comes to the ’hood? D.C.’s Shaw/U Street neighborhood has a rich cultural history and has had devastating riots. It’s on its way up again. But will it be enriched or thinned out? Derek Hyra’s in-depth ethnographic investigation of the redevelopment of the Shaw/U Street neighborhood in the northwest section of Washington, D.C., is the subject of the cover story in the Summer 2012 issue of the Virginia Tech Research magazine."  Read more at this link: http://ncr.vt.edu/highlights/Highlight-082312.html

Friday, September 7, 2012

Congrats to Buehler, Cowell and Zhang, @UAPVirginiaTech Profs Selected for ISCE Summer Scholars Program

Three UAP professors--Ralph Buehler, Margaret Cowell and Yang Zhang--are among several VT researchers who have been selected to participate in Virginia Tech’s Institute for Society, Culture and Environment’s Summer Scholars Program.  Faculty teams received $15,000-$30,000 in order to address interdisciplinary topics-based projects, with the expectation that the projects will lead to successfully receiving a major externally funded research grant.

Read more about the program and the projects the teams will work on at this link:  http://www.vtnews.vt.edu/articles/2012/08/080612-fralin-iscesummerscholars.html





Thursday, September 6, 2012

Fall Graduate Fellowship Available at NADO

From the YIPPS listerve:

"The NADO Research Foundation is seeking a graduate student interested in rural and small town planning, sustainable development, and economic development issues. NADO is a nonprofit membership organization; we provide advocacy, education, research, and training for the nation's multi-jurisdictional councils of governments, economic development districts, and regional planning commissions.  Visit www.NADO.org for more information about our organization and programs.

The graduate fellow will work closely with NADO's staff on various research, communication, and education projects related to planning and development issues in rural and small town America. Responsibilities will include conducting research and contributing to written reports, preparing short case studies or fact sheets, and  developing website content. Other tasks may include planning and managing events, managing databases, and related administrative tasks.

This position is open to current or recent graduate students with a background in city and regional planning, public policy, public administration, the social sciences, or related fields. Requirements include:
.       Familiarity with/interest in basic principles and current trends in city and regional planning and sustainable development
.       Bachelor's degree and 1-2 years work experience
.       Excellent research, analysis, and writing skills, particularly in collecting and analyzing qualitative information
.       Strong organizational skills and intense attention to detail
.       Ability to conduct short interviews (phone or in-person)
.       Familiarity with updating social media and website content
.       Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook
.       Knowledge of GIS and/or Adobe Creative Suite is a plus

This is a paid position on an hourly basis. Graduate fellows at NADO typically work on a range of diverse projects, and have the opportunity to interact with planners and policymakers working across the country in a variety of settings. 

We are seeking a graduate fellow who can work 20-32 hours/week through mid-December, with potential to extend into the spring.

To apply, please submit a cover letter describing your interests and skills along with a résumé and two short writing samples (fewer than five pages each) by email to knothstine@nado.org by September 14, 2012. "

Falls Church News Press Commentary on Award-winning Project by @UAPVirginia Tech Studio Class

An award-winning project completed by a UAP graduate studio class in Falls Church, Virginia is the focus of this commentary in the most recent Falls Church News-Press.  The project considered the idea of creating an arts and cultural district within the City of Falls Church and the class was led by UAP Professor of Practice Elizabeth Morton. The project was recently recognized by the Virginia Chapter of the American Planning Association with its 2012 Student Planning Project Award.

Economist Article Highlights “City Cycling”, forthcoming book by John Pucher &@UAPVirginiaTech's Ralph Buehler

Ralph Buehler, Ph.D.
A new article in the next issue (September 8, 2012) of The Economist highlights the forthcoming book "City Cycling" by John John Pucher and Virginia Tech Associate Professor of Urban Planning Ralph Buehler.

See the article, entitled "Vive la révolution: A cycling renaissance is taking place in America" at this link: http://www.economist.com/node/21562252.

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Sept 30 APA and NBM Event: The Daniel Burnham Forum on Big Ideas

Via APA:

"Wonder what's next for your community? Take a look at global trends.

Demographic shifts. Energy consumption. Food security. International issues are making an impact in cities and regions across the United States. At the next event in APA's Daniel Burnham Forum on Big Ideas, Eugenie L. Birch, FAICP, will track trends from the world stage to the local level. Learn how global shifts are changing the way we think about sustainability and resilience — and what those changes mean for communities like yours.

Register Now

APA's Daniel Burnham Forum is a series of lectures, web forums, and activities held throughout the United States in 2012 and 2013. Each event will examine big questions facing planners today and help chart the course toward a more just and sustainable future for our communities. Look for updates on the APA website.

Speaker

Eugenie L. Birch, FAICP, is the Lawrence C. Nussdorf Professor of Urban Research and Education at the University of Pennsylvania. She chairs the school's Graduate Group in City Planning.

Professional Credits

American Institute of Certified Planners CM | 1.0
American Society of Landscape Architects LA CES 1.0
American Institute of Architects LU 1.0
Green Building Certification Institute ICE 1.0


Sunday, September 30, 2012
5:30-6:30 p.m.
National Building Museum
401 F Street NW
Washington, D.C.



Registration


$10 museum members, APA members, and students

$15 nonmembers

Free to APA Federal Policy & Program Briefing participants

Prepaid registration required. Walk-in registration based on availability."

Sunday, September 2, 2012

Job Oppty: West Virginia University College of Law Land Use Planner

From @UAPVirginiaTech's Jesse Richardson:

"The Land Use and Sustainable Development Law Clinic at the West Virginia University College of Law is searching for a land use planner.  The website for the job description and to apply is:

https://www6.ultirecruit.com/WES1016/JobBoard/JobDetails.aspx?__ID=*A5A5FECFA72A8188"

Saturday, September 1, 2012

Call for Proposals: Dupont Summit on Science, Technology and Environmental Policy

From the Policy Studies Organization:

"The Policy Studies Organization (PSO) invites you to submit a proposal for the Dupont Summit 2012, to be held at the Carnegie Institution for Science in Washington, DC on Friday, December 7, 2012. The purpose of the conference is to promote dialogue about current science, technology and environmental policy concerns, and to provide a civil forum for discussion across the political spectrum. We welcome proposals for panel discussions, round tables, individual talks, poster sessions, along with other types of presentations.

Proposals should be sent to PSO executive director Daniel Gutierrez-Sandoval at dgutierrezs@ipsonet.org. A one-page summary/abstract of your topic and speaker/panelists (if applicable) is requested. Proposals will be accepted until September 30, 2012, the final deadline.

Click here for more information, along with videos and programs from past conferences.

The PSO disseminates policy scholarship through its 11 academic journals and 3 book series, conferences, and programs."

International Economic Development Council Internship

From the YIPPS Listerve:

"The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is currently accepting applications for a Fall 2012 internship position to work on updating content for our professional development courses. Topics range from economic development to marketing to managing economic development organizations. This position is open until filled.

Qualifications: The intern should be pursuing a degree or already hold a degree in urban planning, economic development, public administration, business, or an allied field. Previous work experience in an economic development organization is preferred, although not required. The intern will work an average of 20 hours per week from September to the end of December in our Washington, DC office. Applicants should also have:

• Excellent writing and organizational skills
• The ability to work independently
• Familiarity with research and reporting methods
• General knowledge of economic development programs and issues
• Willingness to work in a team environment
• Flexibility and desire to work on multiple projects

Applications should include the following materials and must be sent electronically to intern@iedconline.org:

• One-page cover letter stating interest and availability
• Detailed resume
• Brief writing sample, no longer than 6-pages. This can be an academic paper from a school project or other writing regarding relevant development issues. It is not required that the paper is related to economic development.
• Recommendation letters and transcripts are optional.

Please contact us at intern@iedconline.org if you have any questions."

Coalition for Smarter Growth Hosts Columbia Pike Walking Tour

From APA Virginia:
 
"Columbia Pike Walking Tour

Coming and Going on Columbia Pike
Saturday, September 8, 2012
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
2.0 CM Credits (Pending)

Event Location
Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization offices
2611 Columbia Pike
Arlington, VA 22204

Join the Coalition for Smarter Growth to see some of the dramatic changes on Columbia Pike since its first community design charette and learn about the new residential plan and streetcar. It will be the first suburban streetcar to return to our region following the demise of the first systems upon the arrival of the automobile.

Check out today's PikeRide bus service, consider urban design and neighborhood transitions, and discuss Arlington's strategies to preserve and add affordable housing. What will the next 20 years in Columbia Pike look like?


Coalition for Smarter growth: http://www.smartergrowth.net/anx/index.cfm"

New Job: DC Department of Transportation Citywide Planner

Via the YIPPS listserve:

DC's Department of Transportation seeks to hire a Citywide Planner
https://erecruit.dc.gov/psp/erecruit/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM.HRS_CE.GBL?Page=HRS_CE_JOB_DTL&Action=A&JobOpeningId=20601&SiteId=1&PostingSeq=1

New "Soundings" on Democracy, Empathy and Compassion by @UAPVirginiaTech's Max Stephenson

UAP Associate Professor Max Stephenson has a new "Soundings" column out on "Neo-Liberalism and the Democratic Imperative of Empathetic Imagination." 

"I have argued in recent columns that democracy cannot long exist without its citizens possessing a least a modicum of compassion and empathy for their fellows. While reasonable individuals may debate how much empathy is necessary to create ties among citizens sufficient to join them in something resembling common cause, there is no doubt that democracy requires that its voters possess a measure of empathetic imagination, as this facility ultimately allows individuals to dignify others in society beyond families and specific kinship networks. If this is so for relatively homogeneous groups of citizens, and I would argue it is, this condition is especially vital for heterogeneous cultures, such as that in the United States.  Fortunately, human beings as a species appear to possess at least the potential to develop robust empathetic imaginations. That is, we individually and collectively have the capacity to imagine the lives and circumstances of others very different from ourselves." Read more at this link.