Waterloo, Iowa (June 1, 2010)

Several architects and members of the American Institute of Architects, Iowa Chapter (AIA Iowa) have been recognized for their service to the communities of Cedar Falls and Waterloo. They are participants in the AIA Iowa Citizen Architect Program sponsored by AIA Iowa.

Among the participants are seven architects from StruXture Architects. Dan Channer, AIA was appointed by the mayor of Waterloo to serve on the Highway 218 Design Review Board. For seven years now he has helped determine appropriateness of proposed building designs along the Highway 218 corridor in Waterloo, Iowa. The Board works to provide a higher quality of design along the corridor, therefore a more positive image of the community to it's residents and visitors.

Geoffrey Grimes, AIA, also from StruXture Architects, volunteers with the Silos and Smokestacks National Heritage Area. He is on the Board of Trustees, and is currently serving as the Treasurer. For ten years now he has been involved with the group, and is helping to develop a consistent signage system for the various sites in the heritage area. This not-for-profit organization deals with the history of agriculture and its impact on people, encouraging people to visit Iowa and become better informed about how agriculture impacts the world and the lives of the people who live in this part of our state.

The Volunteer Center of the Cedar Valley has an advocate with StruXture Architect's Nicholas Hildebrandt, AIA. His volunteer work with them began just over a year ago, and now he is serving as a board member and as the secretary on the executive committee. The volunteer center helps organize volunteers throughout the Cedar Valley, matching them with the jobs that can most benefit their community.

Another participant from StruXture Architects is Timothy Jones, AIA. His volunteer work involves a great deal of hands on participation. One of the organizations he works with is the Cedar Falls Kiwanis Rough Risers. This group sells kettle corn as a primary fund raising activity and participates in various activities throughout the year. This year they are constructing a shelter for the local soccer organization, working on projects at Hartman Reserve, and other activities as needed within the community. Tim is a participant in the Citizen Architect program to help actively demonstrate that architects care and share the responsibility to make this community, state, nation and world a better place to live.

Edward Ottesen, AIA of StruXture Architects currently serves on the Design Council of Main Street Waterloo. In addition to reviewing exterior changes to the downtown area for historic relevancy, Main Street Waterloo puts on several events throughout the year. Among these events are end of the week band concerts know as Friday'loo, and Tour de Loo, which highlights recent renovation projects in the downtown area.

The Iowa 4H Foundation and the Black Hawk County 4H and FFA Fair Foundation has an impassioned volunteer in Dale Port, AIA from StruXture Architects. Dale has served on the Board of Directors since its beginning in 1993, serving as President for the last ten plus years. During his time with these organizations, the staff and board have strengthened Black Hawk County and Iowa 4H into some of the best 4H groups in the nation. Dale is also the Co-Chair of Property Committee, overseeing development and operation/maintenance of the Iowa 4H Center (Camp grounds at Madrid) and other properties held by the Iowa 4H Foundation.

Over twenty years ago Craig Schwerdtfeger, AIA of StruXture Architects began working with the Cedar Falls Board of Adjustment to become involved with local government. The Board decides on various issues related to zoning requirements. He takes part in monthly meetings, acting on any variance requests. His volunteer work with the city works to sustain and maintain the intended planning and zoning requirements within the city.

Martin Holst, AIA of AHTS architects, has worked with the Cedar Falls Planning & Zoning Commission for more than ten years. He uses his professional abilities to benefit the community in its critical planning decisions and be a positive influence on the planning process. As a commission member Holst uses understanding of quality design, sustainability, and livable communities to help educate and influence all the stake holders in the planning & zoning process.

The Citizen Architect Program recognizes AIA Iowa members who represent AIA's values in their community through public service. To find out more about this program please contact Jessica Reinert at AIA Iowa, (515) 244-7502, or e-mail her at jreinert@aiaiowa.org.

Since 1857, the American Institute of Architects has represented the professional interests of America's architects. AIA Iowa, headquartered in Des Moines, is a statewide affiliate of the national AIA.

AIA members express their commitment to excellence in design and are proactive in the design of livable communities. Members adhere to a code of ethics and professional conduct that assures the client, the public, and colleagues of an AIA member architect's dedication to the highest standards in professional practice. For more information, go to www.aiaiowa.org or call 515.244.7502.

For interviews or pictures, please contact Jessica Reinert at AIA Iowa, (515) 244-7502, or e-mail her at jreinert@aiaiowa.org.