November 8, 2005

This year has been a successful one for the Foundation. Our fundraising program has expanded beyond its original scope, and we are beginning to see the results. In October, our Board approved the recommendations of its Grants Committee and announced the award of grants in the amount of $5,000 each to the following:

1. The Academy of Architecture for Health for funding web based seminars
   
   
2. The Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture for development of a comprehensive database
   
   
3. The team of Clemson University, Texas A&M, and Frank Zilm for compilation of space standards and grossing factors currently being used in contemporary buildings

These were the first grant awards since adoption, earlier this year, of our formal grants awards procedures, and they represent the largest total awarded in our history. With continuing success in our fundraising, we hope to be able to award an event greater amount next year.

We expanded our Board to nine Trustees and, as part of our planning for the future, we have categorized the Trustees into three groups in order to facilitate bringing on three new Trustees each year, beginning in October 2006. Additionally, as another element of our planning, the Board elected Georgeann Burns president-elect. Georgeann will take office in October 2006, and will work closely with me during the months ahead to effect a smooth transition. Kurt Rockstroh was elected secretary-treasurer.

Another exciting development is the creation of the Foundation's long-planned website. Our new website was designed under the direction of David Moon, a Board trustee.

As we approach the holiday season, I wish everyone a happy, healthy and peaceful new year.

Merlin