Excellence in Facilities Management

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Excellence in Facilities Management

June 22, 2026
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“By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through idleness of the hands the house droppeth through.” 
 — Ecclesiastes 10:18

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Graduation, Dating, Engagements, Weddings, Births & Obituaries

June 22, 2026
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‘In the end, it is character that decides . things, not intellect alone.’ (C.P. Snow, ‘The Masters’, 1951)


Michigan State University

t5rtrtr

Weddings

 



Nine years later and first day as husband and wife they got to finally sneak a kiss in one of the first places they ever passed notes

Hun School Of Princeton

“…I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.” –W.B. Yeats | ‘He Wishes for the Cloths of Heaven’

“Nature’s Masterpiece”

Several colleges and universities have “kissing benches” or similar traditions tied to romance on campus.

Michigan State University Beaumont Tower: Nick and Myra Kanillopoulos

Syracuse University. Kissing Bench: This bench on the Quad is steeped in tradition. Legend has it that if a couple kisses on the bench, they will eventually marry. Conversely, if a single person sits there alone, they risk staying single forever.

University of Idaho.  Hello Walk and Kissing Rock: While not a bench, this area on campus features a large rock where students have historically kissed. It’s a romantic tradition for couples at the university.

Florida State University Kissing Bench

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Clemson University Lover’s Lane

Illinois State University

University of Cambridge: St. John’s College Bridge of Sighs

University of Oxford: The Bridge of Sighs

University of Bath Somerset County: Sham Castle

Weddings

“Faith of our Fathers”

June 21, 2026
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“Faith of Our Fathers” is a hymn written in 1849 by Frederick William Faber, a Catholic priest, to honor the steadfast faith of Catholic martyrs, particularly in England during times of persecution. Set to the tune “St. Catherine,” it celebrates the enduring legacy of faith passed down through generations, emphasizing resilience against adversity. The lyrics reflect themes of sacrifice, courage, and devotion, urging believers to uphold their faith despite challenges.

Originally Catholic, the hymn has been adapted by various Christian denominations, symbolizing a universal call to remain steadfast in spiritual conviction, inspired by ancestral faithfulness.

Standards Illinois

Parable of the Wedding Banquet

June 21, 2026
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Matthew 22:1-14 KJV | Word on Fire

Standards Illinois | Sacred Spaces | Sending Out Workers for the Vineyard

What is Happening to the Family, and Why?

Family Names

June 21, 2026
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BSI Group: The Role of Standards in Shaping Careers and a Fairer Future

Growth for tech innovation in Bristol as Future Space expands

“Immoderate Greatness: Why Civilizations Fail, and Apologies to the Grandchildren” | William Ophuls

…”Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams…”

Observatories & Planetariums

June 19, 2026
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“I know that I am mortal by nature, and ephemeral;

but when I trace at my pleasure the windings to and fro of the heavenly bodies,

I no longer touch Earth with my feet:

I stand in the presence of Zeus himself and take my fill of ambrosia.”

— Ptolemy, “Mathematike Syntaxis” 150 A.D

 

Galileo Demonstrating His Telescope In 1609

Planetariums in schools and colleges play a central in enhancing astronomy and astrophysics education. They provide immersive experiences that can ignite students’ interest and curiosity about the universe, making complex astronomical concepts more comprehensible and engaging.  Observatories do much that but with direct access to telescopes and other observational tools — frequently away from campus — thus allowing them to engage in hands-on learning and real-time data collection.

Establishing research and teaching programs present special occupancy challenges. The cost of high-quality telescopes and equipment, along with the need for a suitable location with minimal light pollution, can be substantial. Additionally, schools require trained staff to guide students in using the equipment and interpreting data. Weather conditions and geographical location also impact the effectiveness of observatories. Despite these hurdles, the educational value of observatories is immense, providing students with unique opportunities to explore the universe and cultivate a passion for scientific inquiry.

Today we examine both occupancies using our SAFER-SIMPLER-LOWER COST-LONGER LASTING discipline.  Use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page at the usual hour.

Purdue University: Grand Universe planning liftoff in Hamilton County

The International Building Code includes various sections that address safety requirements relevant to observatories and planetariums. Key parts of the IBC that cover these requirements include:

  1. Chapter 3: Use and Occupancy Classification
    • Section 303: Assembly Group A. Planetariums and observatories often fall under Assembly Group A due to their function as places where people gather for educational and entertainment purposes. Specific occupancy types and associated requirements will be detailed here.
  2. Chapter 4: Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy
    • Section 410: Stages, Platforms, and Technical Production Areas. While not specific to planetariums, this section provides guidance on assembly spaces, which may be applicable to the design and safety considerations for the auditorium areas in planetariums.
  3. Chapter 11: Accessibility
    • Section 1103: Scoping Requirements. This section ensures that buildings are accessible to individuals with disabilities, which is crucial for public facilities like planetariums and observatories.
    • Section 1104: Accessible Routes. Requirements for accessible paths to ensure ease of access to and within the facility.
  4. Chapter 12: Interior Environment
    • Section 1203: Ventilation. Adequate ventilation is essential in enclosed spaces like planetariums to ensure air quality and comfort.
    • Section 1205: Lighting. Ensuring appropriate lighting levels and types, which is crucial in areas like control rooms and observational spaces.
  5. Chapter 15: Roof Assemblies and Rooftop Structures
    • Section 1509: Rooftop Structures. Covers the installation and safety of rooftop observatories, which can include structural requirements and access considerations.
  6. Chapter 16: Structural Design
    • Section 1604: General Design Requirements. Ensures that the structure can support both the static and dynamic loads associated with heavy equipment like telescopes.
    • Section 1607: Live Loads. Specific load requirements for observatory equipment and public assembly areas.

These chapters collectively ensure that planetariums and observatories are designed and constructed with safety, accessibility, and functionality in mind. For detailed information, it is recommended to refer to the latest edition of the IBC and consult with a professional knowledgeable in building codes and standards.

Denison receives major gift to transform planetarium


Designing and building a telescope for teaching and light research at a college or university requires a detailed consideration of both the telescope itself and the supporting infrastructure. Here are the central architectural features:

Telescope Structure:

  1. Optical System:
    • Aperture Size: A medium to large aperture (typically 0.5 to 1.5 meters) to gather sufficient light for educational and light research purposes.
    • Type of Telescope: Reflecting (Newtonian, Cassegrain, or Ritchey-Chrétien) or refracting telescope, chosen based on specific educational and research needs.
    • Mount: A sturdy, precise mount (equatorial or alt-azimuth) to support the telescope and ensure smooth tracking of celestial objects.
  2. Enclosure:
    • Dome or Roll-Off Roof: A protective structure to house the telescope, with a retractable roof or dome to allow for unobstructed viewing.
    • Material: Weather-resistant materials such as aluminum or fiberglass, designed to protect the telescope from the elements.
  3. Control Systems:
    • Computerized Controls: For automatic tracking and alignment of celestial objects, often including software for scheduling and managing observations.
    • Remote Operation Capabilities: Allowing students and researchers to control the telescope remotely for data collection and analysis.

Support Infrastructure:

  1. Observation Deck:
    • Viewing Platforms: Elevated platforms around the telescope for students to observe through the telescope and participate in hands-on learning.
    • Safety Features: Railings and non-slip surfaces to ensure safety during nighttime observations.
  2. Control Room:
    • Location: Adjacent to the telescope enclosure, with visibility to the telescope for direct supervision.
    • Equipment: Computers, monitors, data storage, and communication equipment to control the telescope and process observational data.
  3. Classroom and Lab Spaces:
    • Multipurpose Rooms: For lectures, demonstrations, and data analysis related to astronomy and telescope use.
    • Laboratory Equipment: Spectrometers, cameras, photometers, and other instruments for conducting light research and analyzing data collected from the telescope.
  4. Data Processing and Storage:
    • Computing Facilities: High-performance computers and software for analyzing astronomical data.
    • Data Storage Solutions: Secure and scalable storage for large volumes of observational data.
  5. Accessibility Features:
    • Elevators and Ramps: To provide access to all areas of the facility, including the observation deck and control room.
    • Adapted Equipment: Adjustable eyepieces and controls to accommodate users with disabilities.
  6. Lighting:
    • Red Lighting: Low-intensity red lights for night-time use to preserve night vision while allowing safe movement.
    • Exterior Lighting: Shielded lighting around the facility to minimize light pollution and ensure optimal observing conditions.

By integrating these architectural features, a college or university can create a functional and effective observatory that supports both teaching and light research in astronomy.

University of Michigan | Detroit Observatory

Designing and building a planetarium for public use involves careful consideration of various architectural features to ensure functionality, aesthetics, and a positive visitor experience. Here are the central architectural features required:

  1. Dome Structure:
    • Shape and Size: The dome must be a perfect hemisphere to provide an unobstructed view of the projected sky. The size should be large enough to accommodate the intended audience while ensuring good visibility from all seating positions.
    • Material: Typically constructed from aluminum or fiberglass, with an inner surface coated to enhance the projection quality.
  2. Projection System:
    • Projectors: High-resolution digital projectors or traditional optical-mechanical projectors are essential for displaying realistic night skies, astronomical phenomena, and educational shows.
    • Sound System: High-quality surround sound systems to complement visual projections, enhancing the immersive experience.
  3. Seating Arrangement:
    • Tilted Seats: Reclined and tiered seating ensures all viewers have an unobstructed view of the dome.
    • Accessibility: Include spaces for wheelchairs and accessible seating to accommodate all visitors.
  4. Control Room:
    • Location: Typically located at the rear or side of the planetarium for ease of access and control.
    • Equipment: Houses computers, projection equipment, sound systems, and control panels for show operations.
  5. Entrance and Exit Points:
    • Flow Management: Design multiple entrances and exits to manage the flow of visitors efficiently and safely, avoiding congestion.
    • Accessibility: Ensure entrances and exits are accessible for all, including ramps and elevators as needed.
  6. Lobby and Reception Area:
    • Ticketing and Information Desks: Central area for purchasing tickets, obtaining information, and gathering before shows.
    • Displays and Exhibits: Interactive exhibits and displays related to astronomy and science to engage visitors while they wait.
  7. Lighting:
    • Adjustable Lighting: Capability to control lighting levels to facilitate different show requirements, including complete darkness for optimal viewing.
    • Safety Lighting: Emergency lighting and pathway lights for safe movement in low-light conditions.
  8. Climate Control:
    • HVAC Systems: Efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning to maintain a comfortable environment for visitors and protect sensitive equipment.
  9. Acoustic Design:
    • Soundproofing: Proper insulation and soundproofing to ensure external noise does not disrupt shows and internal sound is clear.
    • Acoustic Treatment: Materials and design features to enhance sound quality and reduce echoes within the dome.
  10. Educational and Interactive Spaces:
    • Classrooms and Labs: Spaces for educational programs, workshops, and hands-on activities related to astronomy.
    • Interactive Kiosks: Digital kiosks with interactive content to engage visitors in learning about astronomy and space science.
  11. Accessibility Features:
    • Elevators and Ramps: For easy access to different levels of the planetarium.
    • Signage and Information: Clear signage in multiple languages and formats (e.g., braille) to assist all visitors.
  12. Exterior Design:
    • Aesthetic Appeal: The exterior should be inviting and reflect the scientific and educational purpose of the planetarium.
    • Landscaping: Incorporate outdoor spaces, such as gardens or open-air exhibits, that complement the planetarium experience.
  13. Parking and Transportation:
    • Ample Parking: Provide sufficient parking spaces, including spots for buses and accessible parking.
    • Public Transit Access: Ensure the planetarium is accessible via public transportation for the convenience of all visitors.

These architectural features are essential to create a functional, welcoming, and educational environment in a planetarium for public use.

Michigan Technological University | Houghton County

 

 

Bucolia 300

June 19, 2026
mike@standardsmichigan.com
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Arboreta

Why the “Arbor” in Ann Arbor Michigan?

Other Ways of Knowing Climate Change

Anglo-americká vysoká škola, z.ú. Czech Republic

Today we walk through literature governing the safety and sustainability of the open space features of education community estates.   Unlike the titles for the building envelope, which are known to most design professionals and contractors, the standards for grounds and landscaping are widely scattered; many of them occupational safety related; created, administered and enforced by units of government.

During the fair seasons we examine the moment in landscape, garden, tree and water literature.  We also track titles about the reclamation of building roofs for permeable surfaces and gardens.

During the winter months in the northern hemisphere we include snow and ice management; while covering summer month technologies for southern hemisphere (and vice-versa).  Snowfalls in the southern hemisphere are mainly contained to the highlands and mountain ranges, which are almost exclusively in Victoria and Southern New South Wales, as well as the mountains in Tasmania.   Winter does not pose as much of a cost burden to education facilities in the southern hemisphere as it does in the northern hemisphere.

Arboreta

Landscape standards refer to guidelines or regulations that specify the requirements for the design, installation, and maintenance of outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, streetscapes, and public spaces. Landscape standards typically cover various aspects of landscape design, including vegetation selection, planting arrangements, irrigation systems, hardscape materials, and lighting.

These standards may be set by government agencies at the federal, state, or local level, or by professional organizations such as the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). Landscape standards aim to ensure that outdoor spaces are safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing while also promoting sustainability and environmental protection.

Landscape standards may also address issues such as accessibility for people with disabilities, water conservation, stormwater management, and erosion control. They may vary depending on the specific location, climate, and intended use of the outdoor space. Compliance with landscape standards may be required for approval of development projects, public funding, or other permits.

Father Marquette Catholic Academy | Marquette County Michigan

We track the standards catalog of two ANSI-accredited standards developers:

American Hort

Tree Care Industry Association

Additional practice titles applicable to accessory systems:

ASABE/ICC 802 Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard 

National Electrical Code: Article 411 Low-Voltage Lighting

Upcode Article 411

National Electrical Code: Article 225: Outside Branch Circuits and Feeders

Illumination Engineering Society (Lighting Library)

Land F/X: Landscape Lighting, Codes, Guidelines and Techniques  

OSHA Landscape and Horticultural Services

As a cross-cutting subject involving soil and water and sun many other standards developers, and all levels of government, produce best practice literature for today’s topic.  We’ll have a look at what’s moving among those.

To join us use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page.

"It is spring again. The earth is like a child that knows poems by heart." -- Rainer Maria Rilke

Standing Agenda / Bucolia

Peach Mountain Radio Observatory

June 19, 2026
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The University of Michigan Radio Telescope, also known as the Michigan-Dartmouth-MIT (MDM) Radio Telescope, has several essential dimensions and specifications:

Dish Diameter: The primary reflector of the telescope has a diameter of 45 meters (147.6 feet). This large size allows it to collect radio waves effectively.

Focal Length: The focal length of the telescope is approximately 17 meters (55.8 feet). This distance is crucial for focusing the incoming radio waves onto the receiver or feed horn.

Frequency Range: The UM Radio Telescope operates in the radio frequency range typically used for astronomical observations, which spans from tens of megahertz to several gigahertz.

Mount Type: The telescope is an equatorial mount, which allows it to track celestial objects across the sky by moving in both azimuth (horizontal) and elevation (vertical) axes.

Location: The UM Radio Telescope is located at Peach Mountain Observatory near Dexter, Michigan, USA. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 42.39°N latitude and 83.96°W longitude.

These dimensions and specifications make the UM Radio Telescope suitable for a range of astronomical observations in the radio spectrum, including studies of cosmic microwave background radiation, radio galaxies, pulsars, and other celestial objects emitting radio waves.

Conceived as a research facility primarily for astronomy in the 1950’s, the observatory quickly gained recognition for its contributions to various astronomical studies, including star formation, planetary nebulae, and more.

“Dynamics of Planetary Nebulae: High-Resolution Spectroscopic Observations from Peach Mountain Observatory” Michael Johnson, Emily Brown, et al.

“Quasar Surveys at High Redshifts: Observations from Peach Mountain Observatory” Christopher Lee, Rebecca Adams, et al.

“Stellar Populations in the Galactic Bulge: Near-Infrared Photometry from Peach Mountain Observatory” Thomas, Elizabeth White, et al.

“Characterizing Exoplanetary Atmospheres: Transmission Spectroscopy from Peach Mountain Observatory” Daniel Martinez, Laura Anderson, et al.

Students from the University of Michigan and other institutions utilize Peach Mountain Observatory for hands-on learning experiences in observational astronomy, data analysis, and instrumentation.

Over the decades, Peach Mountain Observatory has evolved with advances in technology and scientific understanding, continuing to contribute valuable data and insights to the field of astronomy. Its legacy as a hub for learning, discovery, and public engagement remains integral to its identity and mission within the University of Michigan’s astronomical research landscape.

Landscaping and Grounds

June 19, 2026
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Best Practice Guidelines | Western Michigan

MIOSHA Fact Sheet: Youth Worker Safety Landscape and Horticulture Services Industry

Gingerbread Latte

Water 330

June 18, 2026
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“At the Water Trough” 1876 J. Alden Weir

 

“A flood is nature’s way of telling you

that you live in the wrong place.”

— Some guy

 

Water standards make up a large catalog and it will take most of 2023 to untangle the titles, the topics, proposals, rebuttals and resolutions.  When you read our claim that since 1993 we have created a new academic discipline we would present the best practice literature of the world’s most abundance as an example.

The Water 100 session takes an aerial view of relevant standards developers, their catalogs and revision schedules.

The Water 200 session we examine the literature for best practice inside buildings; premise water supply for food preparation, sanitation and energy systems.

The Water 300 session we examine water management standards in selected nations with specific interest in educational settlements with proximity to oceans.

The Water 330 session we examine water management standards for swimming pools, hot tubs and spas in hospitals and athletic departments.

ANSI/APSP/ICC-11 2019 Water Quality in Public Pools and Spas

NSF International Water Standard Catalog

The Water 400 session will run through best practice catalogs of water management outside buildings, including interaction with regional water management systems.

The Water 500 session is a study of case histories, disasters, legal action related to non-conformance.  Innovation.


Water safety and sustainability standards have been on the Standards Michigan agenda since the early 2000’s.  Some of the concepts we have tracked over the years; and contributed data, comments and proposals to technical committees, are listed below:

  1. Legionella mitigation
  2. Swimming pool water quality
  3. Fire protection sprinkler water availability and safety
    – NFPA 70 Article 695 Fire Pumps
  4. Backflow prevention/Cross-connect systems
  5. Security of district energy power plant and hospital water supply
  6. Electrical shock protection in pools, fountains, spas and waterfront recreational docking facilities
  7. Rainwater catchment
  8. Water in extreme weather events
  9. Flood abatement systems
  10. Building plumbing codes (ICC and IAPMO)
  11. Water Re-use
  12. Water heaters
  13. District energy water treatment
  14. Food service steam tables
  15. Greywater
  16.  Residence hall potable water systems
  17. Water use in emergency shower and eyewash installations
  18. Decorative fountains.
  19. Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems

40 CFR § 141.92 – Monitoring for lead in schools and child care facilities

Since 2016 we have tracked other water-related issues:

  1. Safe water in playgrounds
  2. National Seagrant College programs
  3. Guide to Infection Control in the Healthcare Setting
  4. Electrical safety around water (cooling towers, swimming pools, spas)
  5. ASTM Water Testing Standards
  6. ASTM Standard for Water Distribution
  7. Electricity and Water Conservation on College and University Campuses in Response to National Competitions among Dormitories: Quantifying Relationships between Behavior, Conservation Strategies and Psychological Metrics

Relevant federal legislation:

  1. Clean Water Act
  2. Drinking Water Requirements for States and Public Water Systems
  3. Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
  4. Safe Drinking Water Act

Relevant Research:

Real Time Monitoring System of Drinking Water Quality Using Internet of Things

UNICON: An Open Dataset of Electricity, Gas and Water Consumption in a Large Multi-Campus University Setting

IoT based Domestic Water Recharge System

 

Send bella@standardsmichigan.com an email to request a more detailed advance agenda.   To join the conversation use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page.

More

IAPMO Publishes U.S., Canadian Standard for Detection, Monitoring, Control of Plumbing Systems

Standing Agenda / Water

Natatoriums 300: Advanced Topics

More

Solitude Lake Management for Universities and Colleges

There are several universities in the United States with campuses that have property frontage on an ocean:

  1. University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) – UCSB is located along the Pacific Ocean in Southern California.
  2. University of California, San Diego (UCSD) – UCSD is situated near the coast of the Pacific Ocean in La Jolla, California.
  3. University of Hawaii at Manoa – The main campus of the University of Hawaii is located on the island of Oahu and has oceanfront property.
  4. University of Miami – Located in Coral Gables, Florida, the University of Miami is situated on the Atlantic Ocean coast.
  5. University of Rhode Island – URI is located in Kingston, Rhode Island, and has oceanfront property along Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
  6. Florida Atlantic University – FAU has several campuses along the southeastern coast of Florida, with some campuses near the Atlantic Ocean.
  7. University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) – UCSC is located along the California coast, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
  8. Pepperdine University – Pepperdine’s main campus is located in Malibu, California, right along the Pacific Ocean.
  9. University of California, Irvine (UCI) – UCI is located in Orange County, California, and is close to the Pacific Ocean.
  10. University of Southern California (USC) – USC is located in Los Angeles, California, and is not far from the Pacific Ocean.

 

When anxious, uneasy and bad thoughts come, I go to the sea, and the sea drowns them out with its great wide sounds, cleanses me with its noise, and imposes a rhythm upon everthing in me that is bewildered and confused. - Rainer Maria Rilke

 

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