One of the challenges that face structural engineers on a historical preservation job such as Simmons’ Stables is balancing the interests of the stakeholders in the project.  In this case the stakeholders are the owners, preservation authorities and the building officials.  The owners and preservation authorities would like to see the building returned to its original condition and the building official wants to make sure that it meets the intent of the building code.  One of the great things about this project was the fact that each of the parties came to the table with open minds and a focus on solutions and moving the project forward, rather than being stubborn on preconceived notions.  

This structure is not only unique in the history of its function, but also in the materials that were used to construct the barn.  The materials were dimensional lumber; similar in size to what is used today that can be bought at any Lowe’s or Home Depot.  Typically, lumber in buildings of this age were built with rough sawn material that varied in size as each mill had their own standards. 

In 1877 there were no building codes, each craftsman was a master of their trade and an owner would hire the contractor who would then erect the structure.  Simmons’ Stable was no exception to this and it has stood the test of time for the past 100 years, with the maintenance that was done, meant to band-aide the problems to pro-long the function.  It is a utilitarian structure and was treated as such. 

One of the first challenges was the fact that there was no permanent foundation for the structure.  When we first visited, some of the frames had settled as much as 18 inches, partially due to lack of foundations and partially due to decay of the bottom of the posts.  One of the committee members that worked at the barn told us that some of the stones that supported the posts were removed because the horses would hit their hooves on them.  Another issue was in the framing itself, the roof rafters were 2x4 members that spanned approximately twelve feet, without collar ties or a center ridge beam,  They would cantilever off the frame at the face of the stalls and bear against the opposing rafters.  As the building shifted, the connections of the rafters failed and the roof dropped and pushed out on either side.  The final issue was the lack of lateral bracing in the building to transfer the lateral loads from the roof diaphragm to the foundations.

The engineering challenge came in the manner in that the building was framed.  It was originally a combination of post and timber frame methods with stick built infill.  The roof was stick built utilizing 2x4 rafters that bore at the outside wall and hayloft beam and then supported against the opposing rafter at the ridge.  There was no apparent bracing in the short direction of the building and as the building settled and deteriorated the ridge and roof framing relaxed causing drops in the ridge line as much as several feet.

After a brief analysis of the structure we realized that we could not simply replace the framing that was there, but would have to provide a structure that met two goals, be true to the intent of the original construction and satisfy the life safety requirements of the current building code.    

We decided that the refurbished structure would meet both criteria, be true to the original intent and meet current building codes.  One of the first things we did was to modify the roof framing both at the main roof and dormers.  We replaced the 2x4 rafters with 2x8’s.   We also installed a ridge beam and collar ties to improve the stability of the rafters and ridge line.  We reinstalled skip sheathing, but added a plywood diaphragm over the top to provide a diaphragm.  At the dormers we installed some engineered wood beams with steel flitch plates, but cladded them with dimensional lumber in an attempt to be true to the original appearance.  

To brace the building we used a series of tie rod braces and custom manufactured steel brackets at each stall line where they would not be visible we used light gauge steel strapping.  

 Simmons’ Stable was definitely a team effort with the owner, contractor, architect and engineering. The final product accomplished the two goals we set out with, be true to the original structure, let it tell the story and be a structure that is safe. 

Our next scheduled visit with Senator McCaskill wasn't until 2:30 pm, so we decided to visit the Holocaust Museum. It had taken us quite awhile to walk there, so we had an early lunch at their cafe. In the museum, we didn't take any guided tours but just wandered through the different sections and admired the architecture of the museum itself. There were some really cool details of steel, concrete and glass interconnected in ways I had never seen before. The museum content itself was obviously very sad. Brandon and I had to go to our next visit, but Brad ended up saying and spending a lot more time exploring. He said the permanent display had some recorded interviews about their experiences that made him cry.

Brandon and I were running late and ended up taking a taxi to the Hart Senate Office Building. The mountain and clouds sculpture in the center atrium is really cool. Senator McCaskill was not available to meet with us; however, her staff person Clark spent a long time with us discussing our blueprint and issues. Several other architects from Missouri were able to go with us for this meeting and I think that always makes a better impact on the congressperson.

One always hears that the staff members are the better audience to voice your concerns because the representatives and senators have so much to deal with. I can only guess that the staff listen to several different lobbyists and then give their bosses a condensed version of everything that was said, saving the reps and senators time. I'm ok with that as long as the message does reach them!

By this time, Brandon and I were really tired from having walked around most of the day. We headed back to the hotel to rest and get ready for our visit to the AIA Institute office building, located in the Octogon. Before we left though, we got the word that our airline flights were being delayed due to the threat of 30 inches of snow coming through the next day through Saturday. We couldn't believe it. It hadn't even started snowing yet!

Brad and I went out to eat at a restaurant we always try to go to when we're in DC - Old Ebbet Grille. It's located close to the US Treasury on 15th Street (our hotel was on 11th Street). It's been very cold every time we visit DC, but we enjoy walking as much as possible. We then walked to the AIA Institute, several more blocks away. I met the AIA legal representative that I had spoken to over the phone concerning a couple of issues for our chapter. It's always nice to put a face to a name. We decided to ride the bus back to the hotel.

Our local AIA Chapter, like most chapters throughout the United States, sends their president and president-elect to the annual Grassroots Conference held in Washington DC each February. I had the privilege of attending Grassroots for two years already due to the fact that our president-elect two years ago couldn’t go. Last year I went as president-elect and this year I attended as our component president.  Even though I’ve attended two previous conferences, I still felt unprepared for the Capital Hill visits, which are a major part of this conference.  Who really knows what to say to a politician, and will it really make any difference?  More on that later.

My husband Brad goes along with me every year, so we booked our flights and made it to Ronald Reagan International Airport around 3:30 pm.  We always take the Metro to our hotel, the Grand Hyatt, in downtown DC.  I haven’t been to very many major cities with rail systems, but the DC Metro is very clean and pretty sophisticated.  Blinking lights warn passengers waiting at each station when the train is approaching.  A live person sits on each train and announces destinations and makes other pertinent announcements.  The people are friendly enough for the city, and we’ve never met someone we were uncomfortable riding with on the train. 

Anyway, we checked into the Hyatt and immediately turned around and went back past the airport Metro Station to the King St. Station where my Mom’s cousin and her husband picked us up and took us to eat in Old Town Alexandria.  This district is amazing.  Numerous restaurants, shops, historic houses and townhomes, office buildings, etc. inhabit blocks and blocks of historical brick buildings that have been renovated.  I’m pretty sure I couldn’t afford to live in the area, but the restaurants are relatively inexpensive and good.  The last time we visited, my cousin took us to lunch at one of the oldest buildings in the district that used to serve as a social hall.  George Washington had actually attended social events in this building!  This time we went to Union Street Public House.  The trout was delicious!

After a long day of traveling, we were ready to head back to the hotel and get some sleep.  Thursday morning, Brad rose early and did his usual jog around the Mall between the United States Capital and Lincoln Memorial.  Needless to say, it was cold.  I got up and went to the 7 am breakfast at Grassroots and met some other component leaders from the Central States region.  Brandon Dake, our chapter president-elect, and I left for our visit with Representative Roy Blunt at 8:15 am.  We took the Metro to the South Capital station and walked the rest of the way to the Rayburn Building.  Every Federal Building in DC requires that you go through security now in order to enter.  Luckily it’s not as bad as the airports, so we didn’t have to take off our shoes.  You do have to take off coats and put everything you’re carrying through the xray machine. 

The Rayburn Building has a huge number of occupants and of course we got a little bit lost finding Representative Blunt’s office, but we made it on time for our 9 am appointment.  We were immediately greeted by Rep. Blunt’s staff member who sat down with us and asked us numerous questions.  Brandon and I had a list of issues that we were given by the AIA to present to the representatives and senators.  They also gave us a large “blueprint” of issues that we left for everyone we met with.  After a few minutes, Rep. Blunt joined us also.  I met with Rep. Blunt last year during our Capital Hill visits and he is always willing to sit and listen to our concerns and issues.  I can’t remember everything we discussed, but I felt like he sincerely listened.  I had also brought along some letters that members of our chapter had written to Rep. Blunt, telling him of how bad the situation is for the profession and that we hope that congress will do something to help ease the lending restrictions that are preventing people from getting loans for construction projects.  In no time at all, our meeting was over and we were headed out the door. 

Check back next week for Part II of my Washington DC trip (including some cool photos of DC during the snowstorm)!

It's a rainy Sunday afternoon when I sit down excitedly to piece together a puzzle that's been hiding away in my closet, patiently waiting for me to find time to unify its scattered pieces. I only have one problem, some of the pieces are missing and I'm not entirely sure what they look like or even how many are missing. On Monday, a similar puzzle awaits the Simmons' Stable project team.

We start with a ghostly shell of the stable, precariously learning this way and that. The stable is rich with character, yet precious details have been lost to time, ravaged by weather, neglect or maybe just a horse that didn't know better. We document what is left of the scattered pieces and begin putting the puzzle back together.

The goal for the project is to restore the stable to the 1940s era. This period follows a major remodel of the stable and its purchase by namesake Arthur Simmons. In order to preserve the integrity of the stable, we focus our initial research more broadly, researching the time periods before and after the period of restoration. We utilize invaluable public resources, which help to define the scope of the project. Among others, these resources include the National Parks Service Preservation Briefs. These briefs cover a wide variety of specialized topics relating directly to the preservation and restoration of historic buildings and building elements.

On a local level, we comb the collections at the Audrain County Historical Society which contain a wealth of photographs and newspaper articles featuring the stable. We further refine our research, consulting local residents and memoirs, include Jane Simmons' Arthur Simmons American Icon of the Horse World.

As we delve deeper in our research, we get a more precise grasp on the true bones of the project, including the details unique to the Simmons' Stable. Once we've exhausted our external resources, we head straight to the source - Simmons' Stable.

With an abundance of information, we compile all of our research into a single document: a record of the project and processes which includes an assessment of the structure, its history, architectural details and evolution of the stable. Once these items are outline, the design team proposes a plan of action, highlighting those elements most critical to the restoration and which impact the immediate stabilization of the structure. The document provides an outline of both the scope of work to be completed and the processes involved. Serving as an invaluable resource to the owners and the design team, it also serves as a great tool to many others.

After the document is complete, it is presented to the many bodies governing the restoration of the Stable including the Simmons' Stable Preservation Trust, the National Parks Service, and the State Historic Preservation Board among others. It's also utilized to inform the public regarding project development and ongoing fundraising efforts.

In subsequent articles, the project's structural engineer, John Miller, and I will outline the development of the project through the remainder of documentation and construction in the remaining entries.

As I normally do, business and pleasure are always rolled into one big package. My trip to Utah in mid-January was no exception. But this particular trip had a series of serendipitous moments that collectively had a great impact on me.

I have a client in the outdoor industry. We recently designed a new store for them, The Great Outpost (link here) in Gatlinburg, TN. Being an outdoor nut myself, working with them to develop a new retail concept was simply a natural 'business and pleasure' experience. As an added benefit, they signed me up for Outdoor Retailer Winter Market - about one million square feet of outdoor camping, hiking, paddling and climbing gear.

So, while I was there I took time to do some business - meeting with them to go over store construction progress, talk about possible upcoming projects, etc. I also spent some time on the expo floor looking for a few new pieces of merchandise for their store. While at the same time, keeping my 'antennae' up for other prospective opportunities.

I planned my trip to arrive a couple days early so I could ski one day, then go to the All Mountain Demo (where you can demo different skis, and other snow sports gear) before the show started. My next serendipitous moment came when I went to pick up my rental car. I happened to look at the forecast for snow, and quickly I switched to a 4WD model so I could navigate the mountain roads - they do not allow other vehicles to go without 4WD, or chains.

The next morning, as I drove up the mountain pass, it started snowing. Apparently, first snow in several weeks, so apparently locals had been skiing on man made snow and sheets of crusty ice. My first day - 12" of fresh powder, and I had the 4WD to make it to Alta - first in line for tickets and on the lift. SWEET. Second day, more fresh snow, at Snow Basin. Double SWEET.

The first presentation of the market was Christine Fanning, talking about the need to get our children outdoors. The Outdoor Foundation (an arm of the Outdoor Industry Association) has launched 'Outdoor Nation' - a national program designed to get kids outdoors. At the same time, my friends the Murrs who are planning on taking their two kids on a trip across the US on bicycle emailed me a list of gear they are looking for sponsorship for. BINGO - I'm at this place where I can talk to any of the manufacturers. And there's a new national program for getting kids outside. Coincidence? I think not.

Next day, the breakfast keynote was delivered by James Balog, who is photographing glaciers across the world to demonstrate the effects of climate change. A fascinating piece of work. I was planning on having all day to mill about and hop on my 5 p.m. flight, but something in me said 'maybe you ought to try to get home earlier.' So after the presentation, I waited around and was able to get my book signed by Mr. Balog. A few moments of chatting with him shifted my perception of climate change. That's cause for a whole different blog...

Then, as I went back to the hotel to catch the early shuttle, I realized I had some extra food from my hotel room (trail mix, snacks, and some fruit) which I offered to a homeless guy perched on a bench. As I'm riding to the airport, I meet a guy from New Orleans who happened to be a presenter of a seminar I missed - he offered to email me the presentation. SCORE! I get there, and the lady says it's $100 to change my flight. I weigh the option of getting home at a reasonable hour (since I have to drive from KC) or save the money. I spend the $100.

Waiting for my earlier than scheduled flight to take off, it gets delayed. Agian and again. Crap. We eventually get boarded. As we land in Denver, I have 10 minutes to catch my connecting flight. So I hustle down the terminal, and BARELY make the flight. Thinking, no way did my luggage make it. Oh well, at least I did. Once I arrived in KC, and my bad was there, I was simply amazed - how did they do that?

The last little bit of news came as I was driving home. It's about 6:30 p.m. My phone rings. It's my automated Orbitz Flight Status Update. My 5:00 p.m. departure from Salt Lake City has been delayed to 9:30 p.m. Which means my connecting flight from Denver to KC would likely be much later, or not at all. Made that $100 seem like $1,000,000. Well, not really.

I had a great time skiing on fresh snow, did a few pieces of good business, helped some friends make some good connections for their bike trip, and made it home before 10 p.m. on a Friday night. All is good, and all was meant to be. 

Simmons' Stables is interlaced in the rich fabric of many great pasts. It's a critical piece of local, state and national history, contributing significantly to the development of Saddlebred history as well as the early history of the African American horseman, Tom Bass.  The great legacy makes it a perfect candidate for a public-private partnership to fund the restoration and conservation of the structure.

Project Funding

In 2002, the Simmons' Stable Preservation Fund was established to protect the Simmons' Stable. Within two years, the Fund secured Neighborhood Assistance Program tax credits from the Missouri Department of Economic Development. These tax credits helped spur donations from local, state and national contributors totaling $500,000. Late in 2004, the stable was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Listed as the Arthur Simmons' Stable Historic District, the site was awarded a Save America's Treasures matching grant of $250,000 in 2005.

Implications of Public and Private Funding

Multiple funding sources are a dream for those trying to make the impossible possible, however, they create a unique challenge for the design team. Before a project can begin it's necessary for the project team to understand the heightened level of coordination, analysis and documentation. It's also vital for the project team to develop an acute awareness and sensitivity to expectations.

As a historical landmark, the Simmons' Stable is not only a great historical structure, but also a significant component to local heritage. It is essential for the project team to consider the impact on the local community, as well as their personal ties and expectations. The community of men and women who interacted with these structures in their work, play and daily life becomes a client. While it is often difficult to balance the unique expectations of these individuals, they are a tremendous resource for the design team.

In addition to requiring a heightened sensitivity to local expectations, projects like Simmons' Stable also require a sophisticated level of coordination. Each funding source has its own unique guidelines for documentation and mangement from start to finish. While each party may share similar goals for the ultimate development of the project, each outlines its own responsibilities, means and methods. Funded through multiple entities, the Simmons' Stable had three distinct funding sources each requiring varying levels of management.

The Neighborhood Assistance Program tax credits, administered by the Missouri Department of Economic Development, required minimal documentation and coordination from the design team. The requirements of the tax credits were managed by the Simmons' Stable Preservation Trust and included quarterly reports, a final report and an audit of the project resources.

Comprised of passionate locals, the Simmons' Stable Preservation Trust represented both private and public interests. This team managed the funding resources for the project and served as a compass of local interests and concerns.

The National Parks Service, administrator of the Save America's Treasure grant, was an active participant in the process from start to finish; although, most participation occured in the initial project processes - including documentation and analysis of the Simmons' Stable.

A significant portion of funding administration is tied to the documentation and analysis of the historic structure. this intensive process is perhaps the most significant element of a historical restoration project. Next week, I'll detail the processes behind this careful analysis and documentation of the Simmons' Stable.

If you would like to know more about funding, contact Lindsay directly at lbarcomb@brpae.com or follow these links:

http://www.ded.mo.gov/

http://www.nps.gov/communities/index.htm

http://www.saveamericastreasures.org/

http://www.nps.gov/nr/ 

Driving down West Boulevard, it's hard to miss the large white stable that sits just 40 yards off the road. Not far from the city square, it's nestled among quiet homes, a bustling elementary school and a scattering of civic structures. Many who reside in Mexico know of the stable's former glory; others who see it in its shambled state, worn by weather and time, must imagine a modest past. Few probable know the complex and fantastic history that surround the once proud Simmons' Stable.

Its story begins in 1887, when the Clark and Potts Combination Sales Company erected the historic structure. Early in its history the stable produced some of the world's finest Saddlebred horses, helping give Mexico its distinction as Saddlebred Horse Capital of the World. Celebrated African American horseman and trainer Tom Bass once worked at the stable, training horses whose lineage can be traced to some of today's finest show horses. Admired both at home and abroad, Tom Bass was invited to demonstrate his artistry in a command performance for Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee in 1897.

Even after Tom Bass's time, the stable continued to figure prominently in the horse world. Horses auctioned from the famous stable found notable homes with both recent and past celebrated personalities, including: American Presidents, movie stars like William Shatner and W.F. "Wild Bill" Cody who featured the horses in his Wild West shows.

Today, the stable bears the name of its latest owner, Arthur Simmons. Arthur Simmons purchased the stable in 1943 following a remodel that transformed the stable to the iconic edifice we recognize today.

The Simmons' Stable Preservation Trust, comprised of a small group of passionate locals, was recently established to preserve and restore the Simmons' Stable, its six-acre site and neighboring structures; including two additional stables, a Farrier's shed, a storage shed and two grain bins, and the Arthur Simmons' Residence which sits adjacent to the property. A large component of the Trust's funding for the project came from public funding. Next week, I'll discuss the implications of public and private funding on the historic project and process involved.

For more information, visit the following:

The Simmons' Stable Preservation Fund website; www.saddlebredhalloffame.org

The Audrain Historical Society Museum website; www.audrain.org

Arthur Simmons: American Icon of the Horse World, A Daughter's Memories, Volume One by Jane E. B. Simmons 

By: Lindsay Barcomb, LEED AP

In architecture school, young, aspiring architects dream of the grand projects they’ll someday design; great edifices with Gehry-esque profiles, swooping walls, sailing roofs and space-age materials.  It’s likely that few looked with longing at the aging American pastoral archetype, the barn.  

It may be true that restoring a 120 year-old stable wasn’t on my list of ambitious career pursuits either; however, early in my career I was offered the unique opportunity to visit Mexico, Missouri, home of the Arthur Simmons’ Stable. The dilapidated structure once served as home to the world’s premier Saddlebred trainers and horses, setting its place among America’s little-known history. This project introduced me to the many hats a designer wears and ignited a passion and appreciation for an all but extinct vernacular architecture.

I remember the first time I laid eyes on the Simmons’ Stable. Its condition was dismal at best, yet even in its disrepair, it held a certain beauty and charm. From that moment on, I assumed the role of preservationist, studious researcher and writer, liaison and wannabe Simmons’ Stable warrior. I modeled myself after the fierce likes of Bobette Balser-Wilson, Mary Littrell and Martin Jones, the dedicated advocates who championed the preservation of the Simmons’ Stable, making this unlikely project possible.

In the following weeks I’ll trace my journey through the restoration of the Simmons’ Stable, beginning with the pursuit to familiarize myself with the people, the place and the history of the Simmons’ Stable. I’ll share the unique challenges raised by preservation and restoration design. And I’ll share insight into the integral relationships to a project of this nature.

In addition, we’ll examine the implications of public and private funding, the project’s status as a historical landmark, and the many parties involved in preservation design. With the help of John Miller, structural engineer on the project, we’ll explore the challenges of integrating preservation design and structural design while preserving the integrity of each. And finally, we’ll take a look at the pre-construction and construction processes, including: selection of the contractor, negotiation of the project scope and the meticulous de-construction and construction processes involved in restoration design.

Join me as I relive the journey and share my insights on preservation design. Maybe the next time you drive by one of those beautiful old wooden or stone structures, you’ll see the barn in a whole new light.

I am back home now. Exhausting trip. Three days traveling and only two days there. I would not recommend that schedule for anyone. The jet lag both ways messes you up and you can't get sleep when you need to.

Here are some random observations I made throughout the trip:

• It must be difficult to make ice over there. You have to ask for it to ever see an ice cube. When I asked for a whiskey on the rocks, I received one (small) shot and one tiny ice cube. When I ask for a lot of ice, I get two cubes.
• They have mastered the 'short pour.' A 'shot' looks like two tablespoons in the bottom of the glass. At least they could give you a smaller glass so it would look more substantial (particularly when it costs 14 Euros!). Of course, Flo's brother's cocktail lounge we visited was the exception. The pours were generous but not cheap.
• They don't use tap water anywhere. Water is 'still' or 'bubbly' and served in bottles (Evian or Perrier) - I assume due to an excellent marketing program so they can sell you bottled tap water - Four Euros!
• Meals take forever. Fast food does not exist. Our lunch at the Symposium Friday had all the presenters and sponsors in a room and it took two hours, despite the fact that the program was running behind schedule. The afternoon program started at 3 p.m., but was scheduled to start at 2 p.m. as a result.
• The food is very good except for breakfast. They don't know how to cook bacon. It is half cooked and soggy. No crunch.
• I still like the idea of a master switch by the door of the hotel room. You put your card key in the slot and it energized all the lights and systems. When you leave, your key is right there (you don't have to hunt for it), and you take it and all the lights and stuff goes off. Great energy saver. We need to look at doing that here.
• They like MR16 halogen lamps. The majority of the ceiling lights are these 120V 50W lamps. The lights are pretty intense but are fine for most places. In the bathroom they fall short as you get strong shadows on your face and shaving is a challenge. I am not sure how a woman could do makeup in that type of light.
• No A/C in the hotel rooms. They just have big French doors that open up and use fresh air. Not sure how that works in the summer.
• I already complained about the lack of convenient outlets. They hardwire all their lamps. Odd.
• In one hotel, they put the toilet in its own closet around the corner from the bath and vanity. Not sure if that's a plus or not.
• I was told that the Enghien's area has fewer smokers, but that Central Paris is still a still a smoker's haven everywhere. There were more smokers in Paris but they have banned it in restaurants and bars. That explains why the outside Bistro seats were all jam packed. Everyone was out there smoking and drinking their coffee, wine or beer. But it was better than I remembered in 2000 when Buffy and I were there.
• The Metro is fabulous. Easy to get around, reasonable priced, fast and efficient. Paris streets are not laid out in any sort of a system and you can get lost just walking two blocks. The Metro is the savior since all you do is walk anywhere you want and then go down to the Metro and ride it back to your nearest station. Sweet.
• Elevators are tiny. The one in my hotel in Enghiens was 4' x 5' and it says maximum occupancy of eight, but it would have to be eight tiny people. You cannot put eight Americans in there without a shoe horn and they better be friends. The elevator at the hotel in Paris was only 2' x 5'!
• They really like their healthcare system but they do not know what it costs them. They pay about 40% of their salary to the government and the government provides healthcare for everyone. They think that the level of is great (with nothing to compare it to) and they will debate their system's merits over our dysfunctional system at the drop of a hat. Of course, since dinners take so long, they jump at the chance to do that and then they can drink more wine and stretch the meal out more!

The really neat part about a trip like this is that you have time to see another culture and learn from them. I am not sure that everything they do makes sense to us, but they seem to have adapted to their environment and responded in a way that works for them. People watching is always fun and a great way to pass time while you sit on a park bench and smoke your cigar.

- G

  

Experts all over the world recently converged on Paris, France at a Green Summit to discuss wind, water and air quality and the effect global warming is having on all of us. Geoffrey Butler, CEO of Butler, Rosenbury & Partners attended the conference. He delivered a paper on his approach to the emerging trends in low impact, high performing Green developments. Would you like to hear what he had to say? Click on the link below. This is the first ina multi-part series so watch for updated videos.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2SjmNTaz_8