So the strongest earthquake in over 100 years shook Virginia (and most of the eastern seaboard, it would seem) yesterday afternoon. Not knowing what else to do, we went and stood outside on the sidewalk for a few minutes and offered suggestions for what just happened - a large truck, a train, the rooftop HVAC unit broke. Who knew that the BAM headquarters is located in the "Central Virginia Seismic Zone" which none of us can recall ever seeing on a road sign. The US Geological Survey provides a wealth of real-time information when the Earth feels the need to shake. Our favorites include the appropriately named "ShakeMap" and the "Community Internet Intensity Map". For a more detailed explanation with awesome-sounding terms like liquifaction, seismicity, and reverse faulting mechanism, check out this early analysis.
So what does this have to do with architecture?
We love Richmond, no doubt about that. But did you know we really, really like Roanoke, too? It might be the mountain views, or the shiny star, or that fancy new art museum, or the way people spontaneously stop and chat with one another on the street (we've seen this). Well, as it turns out, other people have taken notice of the Star City, too. The last 10 years has seen an influx of folks taking up residence in the downtown core and we are excited to be a part of the changing landscape of Salem Avenue.
Landscape work is ongoing at the Linwood Holton Elementary Dandelion Garden and Outdoor Classroom, and the project has just been cited by City Council for contributing to Richmond Public Schools' environmental efforts. They use words like "do hereby unite in solidarity and common purpose" and "officially recognize, honor and celebrate" to describe the efforts of volunteers, parents, teachers and community members who have worked hard to create a hands-on outdoor landscape for teaching and learning.
BAM is similarly proud and united in our praise of Mary Lorino and Chris Chase (of Opposable Thumbs fame) for their ongoing contributions to the school. In fact, Mary is due to go over there this week to move some dirt around.
Did we mention how much we love outdoor movies. Take advantage of the City's Department of Parks and Recreation summer outdoor movie series in the parks. Check out the schedule below or follow the link. http://richmondvirginiaparks.blogspot.com/2011/07/department-kicks-off-free-outdoor-movie.html.
Construction at The Studios @ South Richmond for Virginia Supportive Housing continues. Last month, our good friends at Urban Grid Solar completed installation of a solar photovoltaic array on the roof of the new addition. The system includes 89 panels with a total capacity of 20.47 kW and an estimated annual production of 25,715 kWh. Once the project is completed, a public dashboard will offer real-time stats for energy production and environmental offsets.
