Join the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and Preserve America for a preservation seminar in New Braunfels on Aug. 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Seekatz Opera House, 265 W. San Antonio St.

Hosted by the THC’s Texas Main Street Program through a grant from Preserve America, the seminar will involve all aspects of planning, preservation and revitalization work in historic downtowns.

The event is free and open to the public, but advance reservations are required. The registration deadline is Aug. 11.

Various topics pertaining to historic downtowns will be discussed relating to managing and enhancing the design environment.

On-site study of historic commercial buildings, including Mesker storefronts that feature galvanized steel and cast iron elements will also be addressed. Noted speakers include Nicholas Kalogeresis from The Lakota Group of Chicago, Ill and Darius Bryka of B-W Consultants Inc. who is nationally known for his expertise in Mesker storefronts.

The Texas Main Street Program is affiliated with the National Main Street Program that strives to create significant economic development impact through historic preservation.

Texas has 86 official Texas Main Street communities that have realized more than $2 billion in economic reinvestment, the creation of more than 25,000 local jobs and the expansion or creation of more than 6,400 businesses in their Main Street districts.

To learn more about the Texas Main Street Program or to register for the workshop, contact the THC’s Community Heritage Development Division at 512-463-6092 or visit www.thc.state.tx.us. For additional information on Preserve America visit www.preserveamerica.gov.