William Lebovich, architectural historian and photographer, is the seminar instructor. He is author of the chapter on archival, large-format photography for "Recording Historic Structures," and his most recent exhibition of work is "Shared Sacred Spaces." He will discuss the full range of important issues related to the production of quality photo documentation for the full range of historic preservation-related projects.

Understanding subject matter, composition, technique, and equipment are critical to a successful photo documentation project. Mr. Lebovich will review the use of digital and traditional 35 mm photography techniques for National Register of Historic Places nomination packages, with an emphasis on survey work; presentations; publications; and the web. Also, he will compare camera formats and traditional vs. digital output options, discuss requirements for reviewing agencies and archival processes, and explore issues involved in contracting and supervising photographic projects. An agenda is available online at www.npi.org

For the seminar registration form go to www.npi.org/register.html. The advance registration rate is valid until March 4 ($375.00 for the 2 days).
The regular registration rate applies after that date ($425.00). American Institute of Architects members may receive 6 learning units each day.

For the complete 2008-2009 National Preservation Institute seminar schedule visit www.npi.org.

If you may have questions about the photography seminar or other NPI programs, contact Jere Gibber, Executive Director, National Preservation Institute, P. O. Box 1702, Alexandria, VA 22313 (703/765-0100, 703/768-9350 fax, or info@npi.org; www.npi.org)

The survey will identify sites, structures and districts eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Preliminary inventory work in downtown Tulsa has identified roughly 500 structures of varied sizes and architectural styles within project boundaries. Please be aware of the project time line. The Request for Proposals document provides further details.

All proposals must be received by the City of Tulsa no later than 5:00pm Central Time on Monday, January 5, 2009. Email submissions are encouraged.

For additional information, please contact Amanda DeCort at 918-576-5669 or adecort@cityoftulsa.org

Tulsa Overview (ticket price $35)
1:30 – 5:00 p.m.
From being the end point of the notorious Trail of Tears, to railroad and market town serving surrounding cattle ranches, to thriving oilboom city — Tulsa has a diverse and vibrant history. See how all these influences still resonate in modern-day Tulsa. Featured sites include Gilcrease Museum, Roosevelt School, Tulsa’s oldest house, Cain’s Ballroom, Tulsa Union Depot, Williams Technology Center (HOK), and the Tulsa Municipal Building (Old City Hall).

Downtown Tulsa Safari (ticket price $20)
1:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Lions and tigers and... dolphins? Pigs and turkeys and buffalo, too? In downtown Tulsa? Absolutely! There’s an urban jungle in the heart of the city if you know where to look. Go on an offbeat architectural safari to spot the whimsical terra cotta wildlife on Tulsa’s buildings.

Going Green, Tulsa Style (ticket price $35)
1:30 – 5:00 p.m.
It’s great to be green in Tulsa. See some recent renovations of older buildings that have made concern for the environment a priority: Dennis R. Neil Equality Center, the SemGroup Building, the Fire Alarm Building, and East Village.

Tulsa’s Historic Gardens (ticket price $35)
1:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Philbrook Gardens, Tulsa Rose Garden, Woodward Park, and Swan Lake are just some of the special spots to be visited or viewed. Find out how Tulsa’s most renowned horticultural attractions were developed from pastures, farmland, and a Creek Indian allotment.

Mid-Century Tulsa: Back to the Future! (ticket price $35)
1:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Celebrate Tulsa’s mid-century homes of the Future. Featuring mid-century neighborhoods such as Lortondale and Ranch Acres, see how residents have worked diligently to restore the architecture of their homes and their communities. Creative marketing, community education and sheer determination have created a mid-century feeding frenzy with homes being snatched up by design savvy and preservation-minded buyers.

Closing Party: Take Me Back to Tulsa! (ticket price $75)
7:00 – 11:00 p.m.
An unforgettable evening is in store as we gather in the historic dance hall at Cain’s Ballroom, and boogie to the Western swing of 9-time Grammy award winners Asleep at the Wheel. As Ray Benson says, “We’re a dance band. That’s what we’re about. And that’s plenty.” Asleep at the Wheel has continued to carry the torch of western swing and pack venues across the globe –- don’t miss this opportunity to see a world-class band, eat world-class barbecue, and dance the night away. Lessons are included!

Tickets to these events may be purchased at the conference registration table in the Tulsa Convention Center during registration hours. Please download an information flyer for registration hours.

The 2009 calendar features photographs by seven of Tulsa’s most distinguished architectural photographers:

• John Amatucci
• Ralph Cole
• David Halpern
• Nathan Harmon
• Scott Miller
• Scott Raffe
• Don Wheeler

Enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres on the plaza, a silent auction featuring architectural photography, and discover Eastern Oklahoma’s Best Buildings!

Admission is $35, which includes an Eastern Oklahoma’s Best Buildings 2009 Calendar. Visit www.aiaeok.org or phone 918.583.0026 for reservations.

Michael Sager, owner of the Blue Dome Service Station as well as the Vickery Phillips 66 Station, deserves a big pat on the back for repairing and reinstalling the cupola. Just in time for the National Preservation Conference to roll into town!

Tuesday, October 21st
Special Lecture: The Oklahoma Preservation Story
Presented by Bob L. Blackburn, Executive Director, Oklahoma Historical Society
5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
First Presbyterian Church (709 South Boston Avenue)

Wednesday, October 22nd
Opening Plenary Session
Featuring Mayor Kathy Taylor and Chief Wilma Mankiller
4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Boston Avenue Methodist Church (1301 South Boston Avenue)

Thursday, October 23rd
National Preservation Awards
6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Will Rogers High School (3909 East 5th Place)

Friday, October 24th
Special Lecture: The Romance of the Mother Road, Historic Route 66
Presented by best selling author Michael Wallis
5:45 – 6:45 p.m.
First United Methodist Church (1115 South Boulder Avenue)

Saturday, October 25th
Closing Plenary Session
Featuring Nell Irvin Painter, PhD, Historian and Anthony M. Tung, Author and Urbanist
10:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Tulsa Convention Center (100 Civic Center)

Wednesday, October 22nd – Friday, October 24th
Exhibit Hall
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday
Tulsa Convention Center (100 Civic Center)

Questions? Please contact conference@nthp.org.