Historic Resources Committee

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

Thank you for your comments Robert.  My response to Brittany Meyer of the AIA who emailed me the following this morning: 

Hello:

We see this concern and are working on a response. I'm talking to The Trust for Historic Preservation today about possible joint efforts (they put this out yesterday: savingplaces.org/press-center/media-resources/... in addition to a possible alert to membership asking them to reach out to members of Congress to ask them to conduct oversight. We have to make sure our response is non-partisan and rooted in established policy / the law or regulations.  

------------------------------
Brittany Meyer
The American Institute of Architects
Washington DC"

My response is as follows and what I've posted earlier on Facebook: "Well, that was definitive! Nothing like a little whining while our heritage is being destroyed! Non-partisan! Screw non-partisan, this is the Republicans bending the knee to whatever the orange menace wants. Let Congress know that this is unacceptable as well as the Republican shut down of the government in order to give more tax breaks to billionaires and take away health care from citizens!

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

Agreed, Sam. But while politically you and I are on the same page, as a public group we can't really be making official statements using loaded language like "orange menace," "bending the knee," etc., because the comments will get written off. But I don't think we need to.  The facts are awful enough and the images of big backhoes scratching away at the White House should be powerful enough to get people's attention; they just can't be allowed to be seen as normal partisan bickering. Just call it what it is and don't sugarcoat it.

Thank you for your comments Robert.  My response to Brittany Meyer of the AIA who emailed me the following this morning: 

Hello:

We see this concern and are working on a response. I'm talking to The Trust for Historic Preservation today about possible joint efforts (they put this out yesterday: savingplaces.org/press-center/media-resources/... in addition to a possible alert to membership asking them to reach out to members of Congress to ask them to conduct oversight. We have to make sure our response is non-partisan and rooted in established policy / the law or regulations.  

------------------------------
Brittany Meyer
The American Institute of Architects
Washington DC"

My response is as follows and what I've posted earlier on Facebook: "Well, that was definitive! Nothing like a little whining while our heritage is being destroyed! Non-partisan! Screw non-partisan, this is the Republicans bending the knee to whatever the orange menace wants. Let Congress know that this is unacceptable as well as the Republican shut down of the government in order to give more tax breaks to billionaires and take away health care from citizens!

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

Excellent comments Robert. It is obvious from the last 9 months that Donald Trump does not intend to follow the rule of law on any issue.

Consequently, only writing letters and issuing press releases objecting to the destruction of a major historical portion of the White House is a fools errand. The National Trust for Historic Preservation, the American Institute of Architects, the Society of Architectural Historians and other interested parties should be filing suit in court requesting an injunction to stop this project in its tracks.

Trump has demonstrated his strategy on everything is to proceed with whatever he wants to do and then fight it out in court. If any owner or contractor started demolition without submitting for or receiving the proper permits in any other jurisdiction in this country they would quickly find their project "red tagged" or an injunction issued ordering them to stop work.

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

Thanks Don, total agreement here. I would pony up four figures to support that effort. Not being a lawyer, however, I'm not sure the AIA/NT/SAH has standing to sue. Who is the injured party? EVERYBODY. However I suspect the Supreme Court wouldn't agree. We need a plaintiff. 

Excellent comments Robert. It is obvious from the last 9 months that Donald Trump does not intend to follow the rule of law on any issue.

Consequently, only writing letters and issuing press releases objecting to the destruction of a major historical portion of the White House is a fools errand. The National Trust for Historic Preservation, the American Institute of Architects, the Society of Architectural Historians and other interested parties should be filing suit in court requesting an injunction to stop this project in its tracks.

Trump has demonstrated his strategy on everything is to proceed with whatever he wants to do and then fight it out in court. If any owner or contractor started demolition without submitting for or receiving the proper permits in any other jurisdiction in this country they would quickly find their project "red tagged" or an injunction issued ordering them to stop work.

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

Excellent point Robert. It looks like it will need to be a "class action lawsuit" on behalf of 340 million Americans since the White House is "The People's House". Or maybe we'll just need to include the 50.2% of American voters in 2024 that voted for ANY candidate other than Trump - that's nearly 78 million of us!

Thanks Don, total agreement here. I would pony up four figures to support that effort. Not being a lawyer, however, I'm not sure the AIA/NT/SAH has standing to sue. Who is the injured party? EVERYBODY. However I suspect the Supreme Court wouldn't agree. We need a plaintiff. 

Excellent comments Robert. It is obvious from the last 9 months that Donald Trump does not intend to follow the rule of law on any issue.

Consequently, only writing letters and issuing press releases objecting to the destruction of a major historical portion of the White House is a fools errand. The National Trust for Historic Preservation, the American Institute of Architects, the Society of Architectural Historians and other interested parties should be filing suit in court requesting an injunction to stop this project in its tracks.

Trump has demonstrated his strategy on everything is to proceed with whatever he wants to do and then fight it out in court. If any owner or contractor started demolition without submitting for or receiving the proper permits in any other jurisdiction in this country they would quickly find their project "red tagged" or an injunction issued ordering them to stop work.

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

As the one who started this (even though I think that the AIA should have started the objection to the demolition of the "People's House") I believe that the AIA and the National Trust for Historic Preservation on behalf of Americans (the plaintiff) should file the suit as soon as possible.  It will not stop the demolition in time (the East Wing of the White House is almost gone and will probably be gone by this weekend) but it will put the current regime on notice that what they've destroyed is not acceptable.  They've destroyed part of the most iconic building in the United States.  The regime's plan to replace the East Wing is an atrocious gilded gold monstrosity that should not be permitted.  Speaking of permits, it is imperative that it should be investigated if they even had a demolition permit or have a building permit which is highly doubtful.  They've broken the law and the District of Columbia should sign on as a plaintiff as well.  What's next--the West Wing and after that the central White House as well?  I wouldn't put it past this regime to demolish the rest of the White House and to replicate Moscow's Red Square since it's evident that this current president is a useful tool of Moscow and a Manchurian/Moscovian Candidate.  We have moved into a dictatorship and the +7 million people including several thousand of us here in Anchorage who protested this regimes authoritarian/oligarchy moves this past weekend are aware.  It is almost too late to stop this, but it must be stopped and the MAGA Cult needs a big intervention.  People can say that we have to be non-partisan and non-political, but politics is life and the sooner people realize this the better.  They need to realize their vote for this regime was not in their best interest and the Republican Party has totally acquiesced to this regime and will do nothing to oppose the current president.

Excellent point Robert. It looks like it will need to be a "class action lawsuit" on behalf of 340 million Americans since the White House is "The People's House". Or maybe we'll just need to include the 50.2% of American voters in 2024 that voted for ANY candidate other than Trump - that's nearly 78 million of us!

Thanks Don, total agreement here. I would pony up four figures to support that effort. Not being a lawyer, however, I'm not sure the AIA/NT/SAH has standing to sue. Who is the injured party? EVERYBODY. However I suspect the Supreme Court wouldn't agree. We need a plaintiff. 

Excellent comments Robert. It is obvious from the last 9 months that Donald Trump does not intend to follow the rule of law on any issue.

Consequently, only writing letters and issuing press releases objecting to the destruction of a major historical portion of the White House is a fools errand. The National Trust for Historic Preservation, the American Institute of Architects, the Society of Architectural Historians and other interested parties should be filing suit in court requesting an injunction to stop this project in its tracks.

Trump has demonstrated his strategy on everything is to proceed with whatever he wants to do and then fight it out in court. If any owner or contractor started demolition without submitting for or receiving the proper permits in any other jurisdiction in this country they would quickly find their project "red tagged" or an injunction issued ordering them to stop work.

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

As the one who started this (even though I think that the AIA should have started the objection to the demolition of the "People's House") I believe that the AIA and the National Trust for Historic Preservation on behalf of Americans (the plaintiff) should file the suit as soon as possible.  It will not stop the demolition in time (the East Wing of the White House is almost gone and will probably be gone by this weekend) but it will put the current regime on notice that what they've destroyed is not acceptable.  They've destroyed part of the most iconic building in the United States.  The regime's plan to replace the East Wing is an atrocious gilded gold monstrosity that should not be permitted.  Speaking of permits, it is imperative that it should be investigated if they even had a demolition permit or have a building permit which is highly doubtful.  They've broken the law and the District of Columbia should sign on as a plaintiff as well.  What's next--the West Wing and after that the central White House as well?  I wouldn't put it past this regime to demolish the rest of the White House and to replicate Moscow's Red Square since it's evident that this current president is a useful tool of Moscow and a Manchurian/Moscovian Candidate.  We have moved into a dictatorship and the +7 million people including several thousand of us here in Anchorage who protested this regimes authoritarian/oligarchy moves this past weekend are aware.  It is almost too late to stop this, but it must be stopped and the MAGA Cult needs a big intervention.  People can say that we have to be non-partisan and non-political, but politics is life and the sooner people realize this the better.  They need to realize their vote for this regime was not in their best interest and the Republican Party has totally acquiesced to this regime and will do nothing to oppose the current president.

Excellent point Robert. It looks like it will need to be a "class action lawsuit" on behalf of 340 million Americans since the White House is "The People's House". Or maybe we'll just need to include the 50.2% of American voters in 2024 that voted for ANY candidate other than Trump - that's nearly 78 million of us!

Thanks Don, total agreement here. I would pony up four figures to support that effort. Not being a lawyer, however, I'm not sure the AIA/NT/SAH has standing to sue. Who is the injured party? EVERYBODY. However I suspect the Supreme Court wouldn't agree. We need a plaintiff. 

Excellent comments Robert. It is obvious from the last 9 months that Donald Trump does not intend to follow the rule of law on any issue.

Consequently, only writing letters and issuing press releases objecting to the destruction of a major historical portion of the White House is a fools errand. The National Trust for Historic Preservation, the American Institute of Architects, the Society of Architectural Historians and other interested parties should be filing suit in court requesting an injunction to stop this project in its tracks.

Trump has demonstrated his strategy on everything is to proceed with whatever he wants to do and then fight it out in court. If any owner or contractor started demolition without submitting for or receiving the proper permits in any other jurisdiction in this country they would quickly find their project "red tagged" or an injunction issued ordering them to stop work.

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

Actually, as an FYI, the AIA sent a letter to the Committee for Preservation of the White House and distributed a press release in the beginning of August.

https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-advocates-preservation-and-transparency-proposed-200-million-white-house

Although this is maybe not a strong enough response for some (most) of us, it is at least something. The HRC has made its feelings clear to the Board, however individual members can certainly contact the Board and Brittany Meyer (AIA SR Director of Public Policy and Government Relations) directly. Future "official" actions of the AIA are determined by the Board, not the HRC.

As the one who started this (even though I think that the AIA should have started the objection to the demolition of the "People's House") I believe that the AIA and the National Trust for Historic Preservation on behalf of Americans (the plaintiff) should file the suit as soon as possible.  It will not stop the demolition in time (the East Wing of the White House is almost gone and will probably be gone by this weekend) but it will put the current regime on notice that what they've destroyed is not acceptable.  They've destroyed part of the most iconic building in the United States.  The regime's plan to replace the East Wing is an atrocious gilded gold monstrosity that should not be permitted.  Speaking of permits, it is imperative that it should be investigated if they even had a demolition permit or have a building permit which is highly doubtful.  They've broken the law and the District of Columbia should sign on as a plaintiff as well.  What's next--the West Wing and after that the central White House as well?  I wouldn't put it past this regime to demolish the rest of the White House and to replicate Moscow's Red Square since it's evident that this current president is a useful tool of Moscow and a Manchurian/Moscovian Candidate.  We have moved into a dictatorship and the +7 million people including several thousand of us here in Anchorage who protested this regimes authoritarian/oligarchy moves this past weekend are aware.  It is almost too late to stop this, but it must be stopped and the MAGA Cult needs a big intervention.  People can say that we have to be non-partisan and non-political, but politics is life and the sooner people realize this the better.  They need to realize their vote for this regime was not in their best interest and the Republican Party has totally acquiesced to this regime and will do nothing to oppose the current president.

Excellent point Robert. It looks like it will need to be a "class action lawsuit" on behalf of 340 million Americans since the White House is "The People's House". Or maybe we'll just need to include the 50.2% of American voters in 2024 that voted for ANY candidate other than Trump - that's nearly 78 million of us!

Thanks Don, total agreement here. I would pony up four figures to support that effort. Not being a lawyer, however, I'm not sure the AIA/NT/SAH has standing to sue. Who is the injured party? EVERYBODY. However I suspect the Supreme Court wouldn't agree. We need a plaintiff. 

Excellent comments Robert. It is obvious from the last 9 months that Donald Trump does not intend to follow the rule of law on any issue.

Consequently, only writing letters and issuing press releases objecting to the destruction of a major historical portion of the White House is a fools errand. The National Trust for Historic Preservation, the American Institute of Architects, the Society of Architectural Historians and other interested parties should be filing suit in court requesting an injunction to stop this project in its tracks.

Trump has demonstrated his strategy on everything is to proceed with whatever he wants to do and then fight it out in court. If any owner or contractor started demolition without submitting for or receiving the proper permits in any other jurisdiction in this country they would quickly find their project "red tagged" or an injunction issued ordering them to stop work.

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

I haven't been asked to work for a pedophile, to my knowledge, but, if I was, I would hope that I would refrain from taking the job.

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

Per suggestion I just filed an ethics complaint against McCrery Architects.  Shame on them for assisting him and his illegal demo activities.

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The following is what the AIA had us send to our members of Congress. We weren't allowed to alter it, so it seems a bit weak. Oh well.:

"Dear Senator Murkowski,

As an architect and constituent, I'm deeply concerned about reports that demolition is underway at the White House to make room for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom addition. The White House is one of the most significant works of architecture in the country - a living symbol of our democracy - and altering it without full public transparency and professional review undermines the values it represents.

Architects across the nation are alarmed that this project appears to be proceeding without the kind of historic preservation and design oversight that every other federal project must follow. Federal design review exists for a reason: to safeguard the character, history, and integrity of our public buildings. To see the People's House exempted from those standards sets a dangerous precedent for how our nation treats its most important civic landmarks.

I urge you to use your oversight authority to investigate how the demolition of the East Wing of the White House came to be, and to ensure that:

1. Full architectural and engineering plans are made public and reviewed by qualified preservation professionals.

2. Demolition and site work are paused until those reviews are complete.

3. All funding sources for the project are disclosed to the public.

The White House should exemplify the very best of American architecture - thoughtful, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves. I hope you'll act swiftly to protect this national treasure from irreversible harm.

Sincerely,
Mr. Samuel Duff Combs AIA NCARB
Anchorage, AK"

Nothing like a little bit of whining a little bit too late!😡

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-24-2025 11:31 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

The AIA has finally put out a statement about the destruction of the East Wing of the White House and as you might imagine it is pretty weak!  Here is the link:  https://www.aia.org/about-aia/press/aia-condemns-demolition-white-house-east-wing-and-calls-transparency-public   Y'all probably have received the email from AIA Government Affairs and hopefully have sent your members of Congress your objection to this demolition of the People's House by this out of control unlawful wannabe dictator.  If not, here is the link:  https://aia.quorum.us/campaign/145113/                                                                                                                                        This whole White House East Wing destruction fiasco this week has given me PTSD from the demolition of the most iconic building in Anchorage, Alaska--the 4th Avenue Theatre. My HIstoric Preservation Team had this project award in 2006 until the funding fell through in June of 2007.  The new San Francisco based developer who acquired the Theatre in a questionable foreclosure sale in 2009 promised to restore the building and then demolished it entirely including all the historic buildings in our historic center after letting the building deteriorate over the next 13 years.  The ink to this video is me testifying on Anchorage Channel 2 News to try to save the building as it is being demolished behind me: https://www.alaskasnewssource. com/2022/10/14/ day-demolition-fourthavenue-theatre/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-23-2025 06:37 PM
From: Charles E. Boles
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Agree with Robert wholeheartedly.

Sent from my iPhone


Original Message:
Sent: 10/22/2025 5:47:00 PM
From: Robert G. Graham
Subject: RE: White House Demolition and NEPA review

It's good that the National Trust finally took a stand on this, but please read it. IMO it comes off as a tepid request to please-pretty-please-stop-your-demolition and you-really-should-rethink-that-awful-addition-you-are-planning.  I understand they want to be nonpartisan and respectful, but we are way past the time for respect. Rather than an effete defense of preservation principles in academic language, they should be shouting from the rooftops PEOPLE ... THIS ADMINISTRATION IS DESTROYING OVER 100 YEARS OF YOUR AMERICAN HISTORY FOR A VANITY PROJECT. If the NT won't do this, we (AIA) should.  

This is not a gray issue. The general public does not understand preservation well. Weak complaints from "preservationists" (read: snobby elites, by the public) about demolition of irreplaceable historic buildings under the stewardship of the federal government will not be noticed given all the other things going on. It needs to be called out for the outrage that it is, in the strongest possible terms. 

------------------------------
Robert Graham AIA
Motley Design Group LLC
Phoenix AZ

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 04:28 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

Thank you Jamie!!  I'm surprised that not more of our Preservation Community has commented or taken action on the destruction of the East Wing of the White House.  I guess the National Trust for Historic Preservation has come out against this desecration of our national heritage as of yesterday which is good.  Now the AIA and our Historic Resources Committee just needs to step up and take a stand on this!

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-22-2025 12:39 PM
From: James J. Malanaphy
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I concur with Sam, 

I would expect a more vigorous response from the CEO and President of the AIA, as well as members of the Historic Resources Committee Advisory Group. What message does this action by the current administration send to architects across the country? What is has been the Advisory Council on HIstoric Preservation's response.

We are all architects, and we know that it takes longer than eight months to do a proper job of drafting a contract to construct a $200 M project.

What is going on here?

------------------------------
James Malanaphy AIA
James J. Malanaphy III, AIA, NCARB
Saint Paul MN
------------------------------

The following information can be found on the Daily KOS website and this is the link:  

https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/10/27/2350718/-Not-even-Trump-knows-what-the-hell-he-s-doing-with-his-dumb-ballroom 

"Maybe these plans all look like haphazard, slightly different versions of golden crap because McCrery Architects, which is designing the ballroom, mostly builds churches-not ballrooms. However, James McCrery, the firm's owner, is a hard-right religious zealot and has also designed buildings for Hillsdale College, the right's beloved ultraconservative school."  Daily KOS--10/27/25

If you go to the McCreery Architects website the first thing to come up is the rendering of the infamous "Trump Ballroom".  And then there are photos or renderings of some of their other projects.  That is all there is.  There are no links to any other information. Link to McCrery website:  https://www.mccreryarchitects.com/

I believe that what James C. McCrery, II, AIA, NCARB is doing goes against the AIA Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.  I believe that we as the AIA Historic Resources Committee should discuss this and decide how to best proceed.  My initial feeling is that a Complaint to the AIA National Ethics Council (NEC) is a legitimate and necessary action against an architect who has been complicit in the demolition of of the "People's House".  If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

This is the link to the NEC Complaint Form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/4fddad030d094a649627f876b0c05a65

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 07:00 PM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

I would suggest that we all as members of the AIA Historic Resources Committee write to our Congress members through the AIA's email on Friday or on your own if you wish to.  It's imperative that we let Congress know that the destruction of the East Wing was not only illegal but immoral as well.  Below is my Letter to the Editor that was published online yesterday.

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-26-2025 01:18 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review

My Letter to the Editor concerning the demolition of the East Wing of the White House--the People's House, is now online at the Anchorage Daily News.

https://www.adn.com/opinions/letters/2025/10/25/letter-giving-trump-whatever-he-wants/

------------------------------
[Samuel] [Duff Combs] [AIA, NCARB]
[Architect/Owner]
[Combs & Combs, AIA, Architecture, Interiors, Art]
[Anchorage] [AK]

Original Message:
Sent: 10-25-2025 12:44 AM
From: Samuel D. Combs
Subject: White House Demolition and NEPA review