In this issue:
· 2009 OCULUS Editorial Calendar
· IALD, USDOE Memo of Understanding

2009 OCULUS Editorial Calendar
If you are an architect by training or see yourself as an astute observer of New York’s architectural and planning scene, and/or you have ideas, projects, opinions — or perhaps a burning desire to write about a topic below — we’d like to hear from you! Deadlines for submitting suggestions are indicated; projects/topics may be anywhere, but architects must be New York-based. Send suggestions to OCULUS editor Kristen Richards.

Spring: Elevating Architecture / Design Literacy for All
An examination of our urban connections that foster design excellence, and the need for arts education at all levels to support the public demand for a sustainable and beautiful environment. Suggestion deadline: December 12, 2008

Summer: AIANY 2009 Design Awards and AIANY/BSABiennial Building Type Awards
Registration deadline: February 6, 2009

Fall: Carbon Neutral Now
The new green frontier, carbon neutrality, researched, explored, planned, and designed at all scales by New York architects. Suggestion deadline: June 1, 2009

Winter: Health & Architecture
Architecture designed to promote fitness, health, and wellness will be profiled. Projects selected from within this growing field will demonstrate sensitivity to generational and demographic issues, sustainability, and technology. Suggestion deadline: August 1, 2009

IALD, USDOE Memo of Understanding
The International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in November 2008 to work cooperatively toward improving the efficient use of energy by lighting equipment and systems. The MOU emphasizes the importance of minimizing the impact of energy use on the environment in support of DOE Solid-State Lighting (SSL) programs on lighting quality. The four key points are as follows:
· Promoting lighting design principles and technologies that improve lighting quality, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
· Developing and disseminating technical information to assist the lighting design community in the assessment and specification of SSL and other efficient technologies to support DOE programs on lighting quality such as ENERGY STAR® and SSL Quality Advocates.
· Jointly facilitating forums in which lighting designers can exchange ideas and information with DOE and provide input to DOE lighting program planning.
· Encouraging professional lighting designers to participate in DOE lighting projects, such as GATEWAY demonstrations, with particular attention to helping DOE assess lighting quality.