BBPC Building Committee News

2007 Annual Report

2008-03-06T08:11:00.002-05:00

‘To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ’
– Ephesians 4:12
‘We will preserve, prepare, and build the whole church in its ministry’
–excerpt from Committee Mission Statement

Committee: Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Rev. Louis Kilgore, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson, Church Advocate Al Donato

Born out of 3 years of Needs Feasibility assessment, another 3 years of preparation and planning, the vision of the Pastor, and the commission of Session, this year wrought visible signs of the amazing work of the committee. Substantial plaster repairs uncovered serious flaws previously undetected; now remedied and painted beautifully. Large gaps in smoke, fire, safety and electrical systems were uncovered and addressed - especially in the basement where our Youth gather and women and children of the FISH Hospitality Network sleep. Building code and energy efficiency upgrades were implemented to preserve the structure and protect the budget. Years of accumulated clutter were removed to reclaim over 950 square feet that was immediately employed in a variety of ministries. Areas minimally maintained on a status quo were cleared out, cleaned up, and lit. The $ 28,399 grant applied for in 2005 to offset the cost of development of the Historical Preservation Plan was received from the New Jersey Historic Trust in January 2008. The Preservation Plan details not only the architecture of the church and it’s relevance as a registered historical site, but also the history of the Bound Brook community, the changes in the style of worship and Sunday School that influenced the physical design that this building project sought to recapture and employ in ministry to current and future generations.

Sanctuary: Hardwood floors and stairs were stripped, patched, sanded, and refinished. Pews were cleaned, repaired, and repositioned for better traffic flow. New pew cushions, plaster and paint were illuminated by re-wiring restored historic pendant fixtures, new fixtures that shed more light, improved lamp positioning, and a state-of-the-art dimmer control system. The chancel and choir platform was rebuilt to recapture the essence of the 1897 design with modern building codes and music program considerations in mind. Upgrades to the organ and pipes labored throughout the year and are slated for completion 1Q08. Similarly, work begun in 2007 for the new Media Control Room and sound system is to be completed by March 2008. Beautiful new folding doors bring modern convenience with light and historical reference. The 3 foyers to the sanctuary were all restored; the Bell Tower and the former ‘chapel’ restoration done almost entirely by volunteers Jack Guild, John Almendinger, Luis Valez as well as Pastor Kilgore. The church bell is being rung again. New thermal glass doors very literally open the church’s ministry to the community.

Reception and Foyers: Light flows through new arched glass windows and doors. Lovely and practical tile lines foyers and the ADA bathroom. Beautiful lighting and fresh paint accents all foyer entrances. There is room for wheelchairs and strollers in entries and the sanctuary. The kitchen was moved into Reception and provides access as well as community without isolation, beautifully melding contemporary needs with historical surroundings. Investment was made into energy efficient appliances and lights. Opportunity awaits mission-conscious investment in Kabul Carpet Project rugs. New banquet chairs purchased from Flood Relief Reimbursement funds add to the versatility of the room. Furniture held in storage will be brought back once all construction is done. The D’Angleo Memorial bookcases, moved to the choir room, are beautifully displayed and well employed for music ministry use. Temporary plywood countertops donated by GC Gregg Pulsinelli will be replaced by permanent countertops in February 2008, when the dishwasher, ice maker, and cooktop will all be connected and the kitchen will be fully operational.

CAVE: Teens were heard to exclaim “I’m going to move in here!” upon seeing the new Youth Center; bringing closer the dream to expand youth outreach ministry. Upgrades to lighting, flooring, ceilings, and storage areas provide the foundation for growth. Both stairwells into the basement level are equipped with railings for the not-so-young. Accessories like wide-screen TV, Wii, cable TV hook-ups, WiFi access and cool games and appliances invite opportunities for ministry and versatile use of the space. Completed were the Youth Kitchen, Internet workstation, and Youth Theatre. The volunteered craftsmanship of Al Donato will be appreciated for many years. The youth bar, lounge, and office will be completed in 2008. Materials for these projects were salvaged from building project demolition and excess materials ordered and paid for as part of Phase 1 and Phase 2 contract jobs.

2nd Floor: The Finance office was moved to the 2nd floor office, providing improved security and a window! The Music Director’s office was moved into the office in the choir room after remodeling provided storage and improved surroundings for lessons and practices. The ‘Session Room’ was painted and cleaned, new windows were installed for safety and energy savings. The chairs and carpet were thoroughly cleaned and newly donated storage cabinets house communion articles beautifully. The ceiling above the back entry stairwell was repaired using salvaged, historical wood and received fresh paint on walls and stairs along with a new light fixture. The choir stairwell was cleaned up and painted and the stairs were refinished. The Steinway piano will be restored and moved into the sanctuary after the organ upgrade and re-installation is completed.

The Building Project budget established through pledges was $735,000; based on 2005 and 2006 cost estimates. The committee worked extremely hard throughout this year to manage 2007 pricing increases with unexpected deficiencies in 1.) Building structure, 2.) Electrical and fire systems, 3.) Construction document detail gaps, and 4.) Church maintenance performed as contract additions. Added to these deficits were the added costs of a.) Unfunded projects like Bell Tower restoration, remodeled choir director’s office and re-opening the back foyer stairwell and b.) Additional construction costs resulting from the housing of flood victims. These factors raised the overall total building project costs by approximately $ 70,670. New pledges and additional pledges from members ($16,379) offset some of these costs. The total costs charged to the building project will total $919,377. This leaves a total project over-run projection of $ 167,998. Session will consider how to retire this debt in 2008.

We acknowledge with grateful hearts the financial support of members and friends that have made these renovations possible. Committee work will continue in 2008 to establish maintenance schedules to protect the investments made by this project. Memorials and plaques of appreciation will be made and dedicated in the coming year and this committee can be de-commissioned by Session.

Almost a hundred volunteers worked with us throughout this last year. They offered their time, talents and materials to move this project forward – the names are too many to list but you know who you are and we do too. Thank you!

Particular thanks are also due to the church leadership and staff; especially Martha Costain – for endless reminders for announcements and continued patience and support with contractors and working conditions; Ted Settle - for his unfailing willingness and extraordinary talent in photo documenting this segment of the church's history; Stan Lange and Linda Bullock – for dedication to continued service and frequent calls for checks and accounting reports, and Rev. Linda Owens and Tom Rodgers for their willing input and thoughtfulness to the project and continuing their service in spite of uncomfortable and filthy working conditions. Respect and high regards accompany the gratitude to Pastor Louis Kilgore for his vision, talents and dedication to ministry that opened new light into the congregation and the building and grounds. His ministry joins the very woodwork of this church along with his many predecessors.

2006 Annual Report

2008-03-06T08:09:00.002-05:00

‘To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ’ – Ephesians 4:12

Committee Members: Beth Bowlby, John Casale (Jan – Sept), Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Rev. Louis Kilgore, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson

Wow! What a year. In December, the work and planning of these past three years finally began fruition in ways all who visit this place can see. The work of the committee this year centered around four primary tasks:

» Coordination Planning with Staff, Deacons, Elders, Members and Facility Users
Much work went into planning and communications with the church community. Additional signage was purchased to help identify all the new parking options available, along with additional lighting for safety and security along the new pathways and driveway. Presbyterian and weekly bulletin updates were published, and two Open Forums to share plans, ideas and concerns were conducted. Thanks to Martha Costain for her dedication as ‘Command Central’ where she gracefully coordinates the needs of all users of our facility. Kudos to the Worship and Music Commission, staff, and Casa de la Banquette for the transformation of our PFC gym to a lovely and functional worship space during sanctuary renovations.

» Design and Budget Estimate Completion
Substantial effort went into working with DRG Architects in completion of design requirements; and working within the budget established by pledges from our Capital Campaign. Fundamental to this task was the completion of Existing Conditions prints and surveys, which established the physical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC and fire protection conditions of the church building. The budget review process led to the development of the “Mini-Project” approach, introduced in June. All projects are designed, but only those funded will be done by this Capital Campaign. The Mini Projects are color-coded for easy reference: Yellow: Phase 1> Dec – April, Orange: Phase 2> May – August, Pink: Not scheduled/un-funded, Blue: Historic Preservation related (not planned as a part of this capital campaign). New gifts towards the general Capital Campaign or to specific work may allow additional Mini Projects to be funded and the work scheduled in 2007.

» Contract Negotiations, Bid Package Development and Distribution
Artech Church Interiors was selected to provide plaster repairs and painting in the sanctuary and the “Bride’s Chapel,” new pew cushions and choir chairs, restoration of the original sanctuary pendant lighting fixtures, and lightly refinish all pews and trusses. Their work plans were coordinated with DRG and organ repair specialist Richard Hurley. DRG delivered construction documents for bidding 12-5-06. The committee continues this work in 2007 - evaluating two types of bid responses. 1.) General Contractors – construction firms who provide comprehensive construction services and coordinate with all trades as part of their contracted service (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire and security). 2.) Sub-contractors – firms or individuals who provide specialized services only. These services, if contracted, would be coordinated by the committee.

» Materials Selections
Prayerful and constant searches and evaluations have and will continue in 2007 on selection of materials for Phase 1 and Phase 2 projects: pew cushion construction & fabric, floor refinishing, carpet material & layout, paint colors, choir chair style/construction/fabric, kitchen cabinets & countertops, lighting fixtures, exterior doors, interior door style/glass/stains/finish moldings, windows, dimming controls, plumbing fixtures, security options, fire protection requirements, flooring, tile, ceiling treatments, and all sorts of other finishing treatment options.

We acknowledge with grateful hearts the much appreciated support of the church leadership and staff; especially Martha Costain, Linda Bullock, Curt Koszielec, Rev. Linda Owens, and Ted Settle. Thanks be to God for the shared vision of this ministry we commit ourselves to; to prepare for the continued building up of this church in ministry – where we welcome, worship, learn and care for one another and the world around us. May we listen and respond, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour.

2005 Annual Report

2008-03-06T07:59:00.002-05:00

‘To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ’ – Ephesians 4: 12. Work, ministry, building and blessings in abundance characterized this year, which built upon the support of the congregation and session in formative 2004. With both the architect and capital campaign consultants under contract as the year began, key activities included:

◘ Leadership Presentation, January
Deacons, Elders, Staff, Caring Ministers and other church leaders were invited to review conceptual plans with the Architect and provide feedback.
◘ Congregational Dinner, February
Slide show walk-through of conceptual plans for interior renovations presented with celebration of our life together in Christ shared with almost 200 members and friends.
◘ Capital Campaign, March, April, May – Preserve, Prepare, Build
Memorials and named gifts received from 11 households, amounting to $149,396. Advance Gifts not named and other dedications amounted to $305,753 from another 46 households. Pledged amount total currently is $720,604 representing 240 households (including $3000 Youth Group pledge), with $257,259 in receipts received by year end.
◘ Historic Preservation, May
The quest for state assistance to preserve and restore the structure, stained glass, roof and exterior of the church came into realization with a deadline of June 1 to submit application to the New Jersey Historic Trust (NJHT) for development of a Historic Preservation Plan (HPP). Historic Building Architects, LLC was contracted for $ 38,905. The NJHT grant was approved for $ 29,178; offsetting the development cost of the HPP. The final HPP is due February 2006.
◘ Congregational Meeting, July
Recommendation of committee to proceed with two separate but synergistic plans approved. The HPP will provide a 25-year maintenance and restoration recommendation, with opportunity to obtain additional state aid recommended to do future work. Ministry-focused interior plans were to proceed based upon structural analysis in the HPP to assure “once and done” expenditure, especially in the sanctuary. Design options and narratives, scheduling, and costing was due from DRG at the time of this report.
◘ Website, Blog, E-Letter/Newsletter
The church website, www.bbpc.org was modified to show a Building Committee page, citing the mission statement, the committee members, posting of up-to-date capital campaign results, answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), the Congregational Dinner presentation, and a new BLOG site to invite conversation about the project amongst members. Six Newsletters were published between June and December.
◘ Discovery and Design
Work proceeded throughout the year, and into 2006, in discovery to develop “as built” specifications for all three floors of the church. The conceptual plans presented in January were updated to incorporate an elevator. Interior element options are being collected and assessed for inclusion in the final design. This will be presented to session, Presbytery, and the congregation for approval to proceed with funding acquisition.
◘ Improved Access to Parking and Church, December
Sidewalks were installed between the church and the three properties adjoining the church to the west along Union Avenue, providing clear and safe walking paths from 56 additional parking spaces to both the front and the rear church entries. Lighting is in place for 2 of the 4 new sidewalks; the remainder to be completed early in 2006. Township approval is being sought for 8 to 16 new paved parking spaces on the west side of the PFC by expanding both the left and right sides of the existing driveway which terminates on Union Avenue.

Committee Members: Beth Bowlby, John Casale, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Michele Horst, Betsy Kamienowski (Chair), Rev. Louis Kilgore, Perry Novak, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson

We acknowledge with grateful hearts the appreciated support from Peggy Sutherland, Martha Costain, and Curt Koszielec, as well as Rev. Linda Owens and all participants in Youth Group. Our thanks also to Bill Dettelback, Jane and Ted Settle, Lori and Jim Bowers, and Jill DeMouth and all the hosts and helpers for their assistance with the Congregational Dinner. Thanks be to God for the shared vision of this ministry we commit ourselves to; to prepare for the continued building up of this church in ministry – welcoming, worship, fellowship, learning and caring. May we listen and respond, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour.

2004 Annual Report

2008-03-06T07:51:00.002-05:00

In Memorium: We mourn the loss of our friend and fellow committee member Don Lynch.

This committee of session was born out of the work completed through the leadership of Dave Costain and the participants of the Building Needs Feasibility Committee, with tremendous support provided by David Pease and Louis Kilgore. The prior 3 years of interviews, surveys, planning, trails & errors and many discussions of the Building Needs Feasibility Committee provided the foundation upon which this effort began. This committee was commissioned by session in January 2004 with elder Betsy Kamienowski as chair, and elders Beth Bowlby, John Casale, Bill Dettelback, Ray Ferreira, and Carol Wilson as committee members. Meetings promptly began, and the following stated purpose and committee structure was developed and then approved by session in March.

MISSION STATEMENT:
As we are compelled by God to move forward with our call to carry out God’s love in word and deed; we will preserve, prepare,and build the whole church in its ministry in the greater Raritan Valley over the next two decades. With this clarity of mission, we will utilize the talents and technologies of this age to equip current and future generations to build up the body of Christ. In service to our Lord Jesus Christ, we seek to continue the church’s mission of welcoming, worshiping, caring and learning. In gratitude to God for the pioneering heritage of our forebears, we rededicate ourselves with the words of the Reverend Titus Davis in 1898; “My children, go on. There is still greater work for you to do.”

COMMITTEE STRUCTURE:
Architect Search – develop strategies and processes to select and award design of site to firm, liaison with Construction team, Capital Campaign team, Finance Commission, and legal counsel. The entire committee was involved in the interview, ranking, and selection process.
Congregational Awareness – develop plan and processes to keep session and congregation aware of our work and enable congregational input, liaison with Stewardship and Communications.
Construction Coordination – develop a strategy for construction management as part of the bid package following the capital campaign.
Capital Campaign – develop strategies and processes to select method(s) for fund raising and contractor as determined, liaison with Architect on cost estimates, and the Stewardship, Finance, and Communication Commissions.

Work quickly began on development of an informational brochure, which was made available in the fall congregational meeting. Updates on architectural plans and budgetary construction costs will be made available with the launch of the capital campaign. Research also began on architects to consider for the interview process, along with a bid package that included the results of the Building Needs Feasibility Study, the prioritization of needs to be addressed as part of this committee’s work, a floor plan outline of the sanctuary, CAVE, and choir rehearsal levels, and an evaluation rubric which provided an orderly method to compare both intrinsic offerings and numerical data (dollars, time, percentages) among bidding architects. DRG Associates, with David Pease as the architect, was awarded the $ 15,000 contract to deliver all plans and estimates needed to develop a construction bid package, with approval from session.

Evaluation was also done on capital campaign options: grass roots, use of CFCS: a fund-raising service which supports also PC-USA, or use of an independent fund-raising service. With approval from session CFCS was awarded the contract ($18,909) to assist in the development of a capital campaign and to assist in presentation of this campaign to the congregation, with consideration also to the needs of the annual giving campaign.

In November, the congregation was presented a summary of the plan of the committee. Motion was made and enthusiastically approved to proceed with a capital campaign in the first quarter of 2005 to gather subscriptions to complete the prioritized needs identified, and to carry a component of mission. By end of year, plans were confirmed to gather in celebration of our ministry with a congregational dinner 2/25/05 and to launch the campaign 2/27/05.
It is with deep respect and high regards for the intelligence, commitment, and talent of all those who have participated in the work of this committee this year that I offer my thanks. We are grateful for the vision, the leadership, and the dedication in his ministry - our pastor and friend, Rev. Lou Kilgore.

Current Members: Beth Bowlby, John Casale, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski (chair), Carol Wilson
Past Members: Bill Dettelback, Mark Huddell, Leslie Wilson
Staff Support: Martha Costain, Lou Kilgore, Linda Owens, Tom Rodgers, Peg Sutherland

March Building Committe News

2008-03-06T07:50:00.000-05:00

The Reception kitchen countertops were installed as promised in February. Purchase of two Kabul Carpet Project rugs in this space to offer versatile room configurations was postponed. If you are interested in making an additional pledge to the capital campaign for purchase of a rug please contact the church office. Work has slowly progressed on the organ upgrades and re-installation. Another blessing of February was the donation of a new $20,000 sound system to enhance the music, worship, and caring ministry programs. Kudos to Kevin Joshua for dedicating a full week of coordination with Coskeys and other sound contractors to have the speakers installed and working for the building dedication. Big Time Thanks also go to Paul Gindler and Chris Metaxis to lend their time and talents to filling in where the contractors did not.

With construction completed the final contract payments are being made. Your continued pledge payments are needed as the 3-Year Capital Campaign period ends this May. Additional pledges will offset the cost over-runs and allow the church to retire the debt this year. Thank You!

The Building Committee will not officially meet again until final cost and income figures are provided. We have been gratified to serve in the building up of the whole church in ministry. Faithfully yours; Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Louis Kilgore, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson, and Advocate Al Donato

February Building Committee News

2008-03-06T07:48:00.001-05:00

The Reception Windows are installed and final paint touch-ups are being addressed. The countertops should be installed sometime in February. The cook top, dishwasher and icemaker will then be connected and final cabinet trim installed. The kitchen will finally be “done.” Furniture requirements for the space will then be addressed. Kabul Carpet Project rugs in this space would offer versatile room configurations and support this wonderful Mission opportunity. Appointments for rug selection will be made when a commitment is made for purchase. Work has proceeded in more earnest on the organ upgrades and re-installation. With hope and continued work, the contract with Richard Hurley may be completed in March. Work has also continued on the sound and speaker systems with the objective that the Media Control Room will be operational this month. New cluster speakers are to be installed which will allow us to move the adjunct speakers, sound board and loose wires off the chancel. We are very grateful to Casa de la Banquette for use of their equipment in the interim.

With construction completed – contract payments are due. The 3-Year Capital Campaign period closes this May – your continued pledge payments are needed. Thank You!

The Building project will be dedicated in worship the weekend of March 1 and 2, in celebration of Rev. Kilgore’s pastorate. Faithfully yours; Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Louis Kilgore, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson, and Advocate Al Donato

January Building Committee News

2008-01-07T08:38:00.000-05:00

It was June 1898 when Rev. Titus Davis was to have remarked that after years of united effort, but with many a struggle, the work was completed and ‘our new church, the most beautiful and suitable and helpful for true Christian worship … shall stand as a monument to God’s goodness to us and our unfailing gratitude to Him.’[1] In 2005, documentation began for “ministry-focused renovation” to address ‘immediate needs on 3 levels’ for renovations to the church ‘to create a more accessible, light-filled, people-friendly space.’ God grant that our ministry reach out unceasingly as another building project comes to completion.
On-going maintenance projects and up-keep will take the place of the Building Project this year. The ‘Session Room’ has been painted and the rug and chairs are scheduled for a thorough cleaning. A new conference table is being sought to fully utilize this room again for meetings, conferences, and learning experiences. The choir room floor is to be refinished and new paint and lighting will greatly enhance the space. Downstairs, the Youth Kitchen bar will be constructed using the salvaged upper cabinets from the old parlor kitchen, which will complete the major construction projects for the Youth Center. Still needed are bar stools and countertops to seat 8 to 10 people. The remaining porcelain tile from the new foyers will be installed at the bottom of the new Cave stairwell. The remaining vinyl tile from the Cave will be installed in the Youth Lounge/Youth Director Office and that area will be cleaned out and painted also. Positioning of coat racks and bulletin boards upstairs and down will begin soon. After the failure of an archaic electric panel on 12-23 and its hasty replacement 12-24, electricians will return to recommend additional preventive work projects. The culprit point of the sewage back-up problems was ground out to a 3” flow diameter and all hope is this would be the last report of sewage problems for a very long while. Reception kitchen countertops will be templated for fabrication this month and installation in February. The new windows in Reception will be installed very soon, and final painting and contract punch list items will be attended to.
Work remains to be done for upgrades and re-installation of the organ and completion of the new sound system. With construction almost complete – contract payments are due. Your pledge payments help church cash flow. Thank You!
Faithfully yours; Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Louis Kilgore, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson, and Advocate Al Donato
[1] Windows of the Past, by Jane Hall Spangler, pg. 151

Week Ending Dec 8, 2007

2007-12-07T08:27:00.000-05:00

‘It’s beginning to look a lot like COMPLETION!’ The KraftMaid kitchen cabinets were delivered and set this week in Reception. Priming, painting and staining are underway still. The sink, cooktop and dishwasher will be connected when the countertops come in. The fridge and microwave are connected. Contractor Gregg Pulsinelli volunteered to set temporary plywood countertops for reception use until then – Thank you Gregg! Our gratitude to willing volunteers like Luis continues as the chapel space is refurbished, the Mountain Ave. windows in the Cave are unblocked and cleaned, and the session room and stairwell gets painted. Electrical punch list items were worked on week. Service on the Media Control Room heater/A-C unit was re-scheduled for 12/10 as parts needed to be ordered. The lawn outside the chapel entrance was dug up to investigate sewer blockages and install a new clean-out. The ‘Jobs for Volunteers’ list is posted outside the sanctuary for those who can lend their time and talents. We appreciate your patience during construction! Your Capital Campaign pledges make this ministry possible - Thank You!

December Building Committee News

2007-12-07T08:18:00.000-05:00

Last December, the cord from the console to the organ pipes was cut, the sanctuary pendant lights were removed for restoration, and we were officially “Under Construction.” With the beginning of this Advent, we are nearing completion of what we set out to do - Preserve, Prepare and Build, “equipping the saints for the work of ministry.’ Ephesians 4:16. Thanks be to God!

The restoration and repair completed in the sanctuary has been beautifully enhanced by the Worship & Music Commission’s Christmas decorations, along with hundreds of hours of volunteer work put into the Bell Tower & Bride’s Chapel entrances. The additional investment of the arched glass doors in the Bell Tower truly opens worship to the community. The organ upgrades and re-installation is seriously delayed; hope and pressure abound in equal measure that this would be completed as soon as possible. This month, most of the contracted work has been or will be completed in the Reception area and ramp-entry foyer: flooring, painting, lighting, heating, duct work, fire/smoke alarm upgrades, new staircase, kitchen cabinetry and appliances. The countertops will be completed in January 2008. The installation of the 3 Memorial Windows in Reception has been delayed until later in the month. Movement of an un-seen stained glass window to prominence above the new ramp-entry foyer door amazingly enhances both foyer and exterior. Final upgrades to wiring and lighting in the Cave, Youth Center, and “Tunnel” will be completed this month. Immense gratitude is extended to Luis, Richard and John who have donated hundreds of hours of time (and materials!) to general maintenance and repair work in the church. Areas long over-looked and under-utilized are accessible and clean as well as beautiful. Hearty thanks also to Al for donating his time in building a wonderful workstation in the Youth Center. Recurring plumbing back-ups in the basement require additional snake camera research and installation of a plumbing clean-out point – the front lawn has been marked and will be dug up in as small a space as possible for this purpose.

The large speakers and wires on the chancel are temporary; with thanks to Casa de la Banquette for use of their sound system until the new church system is installed. Stair tread caps will be installed around the edge of the balcony risers to provide tactile and visual reference, and pews will be adjusted to provide better access. Plans are also underway to complete the Session Room renovations to return this space to fuller and more versatile use. The Youth kitchen bar project will be done next month by recycling the old parlor kitchen cabinets. The exterior around the Session Room still needs painting – Paint, primer, brushes, rollers are available! Please contact Betsy Kamienowski if you can help get that project done! A ‘Jobs for Volunteers’ list is posted outside the sanctuary. Jobs range from lining drawers with shelf paper to skilled construction – check out how you can help!

The construction dumpster will be removed from the parking area in December, restoring the handicap parking spaces to full use again. The Hospitality committee is establishing a dedicated space under the Bell Tower to facilitate the wonderful ministry they do. Youth groups and staff have helped clear out un-used items from over-crowded closets to provide space for organized, dry and accessible storage.

With construction almost complete – contract payments are coming due. Your pledge payments help church cash flow needs. Thank You! Faithfully yours; Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Louis Kilgore, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson, and Advocate Al Donato

2007-11-21T09:09:00.000-05:00

THIS WEEK ON THE CONSTRUCTION SITE
The hardwood floor has been installed and is covered for protection. Salvaged bead board and trim was installed in the expanded Porte Cochere foyer after tile was installed. Painting and staining of both foyers and the reception area is to be done next week. The new reception windows are also to be installed next week. Reception kitchen cabinets are to be delivered the first week of December. We are extremely grateful for all the volunteer cleaning and clearing that has been done by Luis. We appreciate your patience during construction. Your Capital Campaign pledges make this ministry possible - Thank You! Faithfully yours - Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Louis Kilgore, Linda Owens, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson Advocate Al Donato.

WORK DAY! Can you spare a few hours Sunday afternoon?
Join us from 3:00 to 6:00 this Sunday 11/25 to help clear out the POD storage unit, remove the last vestiges of clutter tucked away in the cave, and attack some of the small jobs for Volunteers that remain to be done. Items available: Fiberboard Desk 39.5”W x 19.5”D x 26.75”H with 14”W x 3”D drawer, Wooden Open Shelving Unit 36.5”W x 10”D x 76”H, Double Straight back Choir Pew 14’ long, Curved Choir Pew approx. 15’ long, 5-Drawer File-gray 15”W x 27”D x 52”H, 4-Drawer File-tan 15”W x 12”D x 49”H, Light Oak Alter 66”W x 25.25”D x 40.5”H, Wall Lamp brass with fabric shade, Wall Lamp wood & brass with glass hurricane lens. If you would like any of these items, please come Sunday. Donations will be applied to the cost of the storage unit – Thank you!

November Presbyterian

2007-10-29T08:14:00.000-04:00

Tuesday Night is Open Cave Night for teens to come do homework, plan 1Life projects, or just hang out! It is a joy and blessing made possible through the Capital Campaign to reach out in ministry through this revitalized space! Planning and work continues so that we can provide the Internet Workstation and Youth Juice Bar in the Cave. The bar track lighting will be installed once the bar is constructed. If you have a laptop or printer/supplies to donate to the Youth Center - please contact Rev. Linda Owens.

It is Not Too Late to make donations to the Capital Campaign! If you were unsure what the campaign was about but like what you see, can you express your gratitude with a pledge now? Memorial and dedicated pledges are still available. Please speak with Rev. Kilgore or Betsy Kamienowski if you have questions or just want to discuss specific projects. Join us in this celebration of our blessings to Prepare, Preserve, and Build the physical church which will ‘equip the saints for the work of ministry.’ Ephesians 4:16

Phase 2 construction projects are nearing completion; although construction documents still have not been received from DRG for all current projects or for Phase 3 unfunded construction documents due. The three new arched glass Memorial windows facing the parking lot will be installed early in December. The reception kitchen will also be completed in December. In the meantime, tile in the foyer, hardwood flooring in reception, and the restored stairwell into the basement will be installed. The stairs into the cave from what is now the center of the reception area will be closed off once access is available from the new stairs. The interior Bell Tower arched glass doors and ramp entry exterior door will be installed and fully operational by October 29. Carpeting for the sanctuary aisles is planned for the future. The speakers and wires on the chancel are also temporary – volunteers Paul Gindler, Chris Metaxis, John Almendinger are working to install an improved sound system connected to the balcony Media Control Room. Thanks also to Bill Blicharz for continued clearing out of debris so that new mission and ministry has room to flourish. The Bell Tower renovations continue and are almost complete. Donated work and supplies from Jack Guild, John Almendinger, Louis Kilgore and Al Donato in the restored foyer are so very much appreciated.

Phase 2 costs include general construction and painting - $207,033, and additional unexpected costs like steel work - $ 12,438, fire-safe stairwell $ 5,250 and extended organ rental fees ($500 per month – 4 months to date). New Pledges and pre-payments will help right now provide the cash flow needed to pay these bills until pledge payments due June 2008 are received. Session voted this past month not to add an elevator ($ 98,000 installed) into the scope of the current projects as current pledges can not fund it. If ADA access to all levels of the church is a meaningful ministry to you, please consider discussing the finances needed to bring this gift to the church with the pastor or the Building Committee. Recall the summons from Rev. Titus Davis at the church’s dedication – ‘My children go on – there is more work for you to do.’

Faithfully yours, The Building Committee - Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Louis Kilgore, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson, and Advocate Al Donato

News from Week Ending October 13, 2007

2007-10-14T13:06:00.000-04:00

Work continued on the ramp-entry stairwell to the basement this week, along with electrical wiring and sheetrock in the new reception area. A template was measured for the new reception memorial windows; they should be installed in November. New wiring for the sound & recording system is being installed, but needs to be connected to speakers. We are grateful for the use of the Casa de Banquette sound system and speakers until the permanent media systems are fully operational.

DO YOU KNOW AN ORGANIZATION INTERESTED IN A HIGH TEMPERATURE DISHWASHER? The $8000 parlor kitchen dishwasher was salvaged to be re-installed in the new reception kitchen, but is really more than we need. A $1500 donation to the Capital Campaign in exchange for the dishwasher is suggested. The Hobart dishwasher is stainless steel inside and out, is 24” wide x 24” deep, and sanitizes contents in about 10 minutes.

Are You Re-Modeling at home?
The Youth Kitchen needs a Microwave, a cappuccino maker, a blender, and a few pots, pans, cookie sheets, dishtowels and pot holders. Please speak to Rev. Linda Owens if you have any of these to donate. The Building Committee is looking for a stainless or silver-tone front 24” dishwasher and 30” refrigerator. Please speak to Betsy Kamienowski (908-642-0955) if you have any of these to donate.

2007-10-05T20:52:00.000-04:00

Electrical and Fire inspections were approved this week. The steel piers to reinforce the choir room floor need to be spliced to be moved into position - Engineering approval on this is required before the steel is delivered. Architects are also working on the construction documents to re-implement the staircase under the original stairs to the choir room. Repairs to the sidewalk damaged during CAVE construction were completed, and a curb between the sidewalk and handicap parking space was removed. New wiring is being run in the reception area and plumbing work was completed for the new reception kitchen. The old florescent lens covers will be donated to the Middlesex library once the new lighting is installed. New pre-finished oak flooring will be installed in the reception area, as the sub floor as found to be in poor condition. A variety of bar and Internet/workstation designs are in consideration for the Youth Center, as well as reception kitchen cabinetry and appliances. Faithfully yours, the Building Committee: Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Louis Kilgore, Linda Owens, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson Advocate Al Donato

DO YOU KNOW A COMMERCIAL ORGANIZATION INTERESTED IN A HIGH TEMPERATURE DISHWASHER? The $8000 parlor kitchen dishwasher was salvaged to be re-installed in the new reception kitchen, but is really more than we need. A $1500 donation to the Capital Campaign in exchange for the dishwasher is suggested. The Hobart dishwasher is stainless steel inside and out, fits into cabinetry 24” wide x 24” deep, and sanitizes contents in about 10 minutes.

October Project Updates

2007-10-04T19:25:00.000-04:00

The Youth Center has been opened downstairs. The Juice Bar and Internet counter still need to be built – but the space is open and already in use! The old parlor kitchen cabinets have been re-employed and look wonderful in the new Youth Kitchen. It is such a wonderful open space the name ‘Cave’ has become counter-intuitive! Upstairs, organ upgrades are still underway and there are still boxes of pipes to be installed. We hope to have the organ fully operational by Christmas. The sanctuary folding doors will be made accessible once the new reception area is completed.

Carpeting for the sanctuary aisles is planned for the future. Enjoy the exemplary acoustics with us until then! The Bell Tower renovations continue and are almost complete. The donated works of Jack Guild, John Almendinger, Louis Kilgore and Al Donato will be appreciated by the whole congregation once the new arched glass doors are installed. These will provide wonderful light into the sanctuary and a beautiful view of the historic foyer. Our hope is that this inviting entry will also become a beacon to those who pass by so that our ministry will extend further into the community. These doors and renovations were made available through the Capital Campaign and by action of session, some Memorial Funds in part from the family of Frances S. Bean. Planning is underway for new memorials and to re-display all existing memorials that have been waiting to be displayed again.

Phase 2 construction projects are fully underway; some already completed over the summer. The financial office was moved from the CAVE to the 2nd floor – formerly the Choir Director’s office. Tom Rodgers’ newly reconfigured office is now conveniently situated in the Choir Room. The beautiful parlor bookshelves dedicated by Marie and Ed Malone in memory of George and Angela D’Angelo (built by Bill Stalker) were moved to the Choir Room and are a lovely and fitting addition there. New reception area windows, a memorial to the life of Dusty by Bill and Marion Crum, will be made by NJ Hardwoods. Work in the reception area has been delayed for 2 weeks as structural problems were uncovered during demolition. Persimmon Engineering provided engineering documents to resolve the deflection found in the beam that supports the choir room floor. DRG Architects needs to supply construction documents against which inspections can be done for work to proceed. We apologize for the inconvenience this causes. We continue to thank our church staff for continuing their work in spite of jack-hammers, blocked off offices, restricted movement through the church, and new waves of dust and dirt. The new reception area should be complete by December.

Costs (intrinsic and extrinsic) are being considered by the committee and by session regarding the lack of ADA-compliant access to all 3 levels of the church. Capital Campaign Pledge payments are on target (75% payment at 77% of campaign period) – Thank You! Advances against pledges due are being paid from our endowment reserves. Early payments to your Capital Campaign pledge will be put to immediate use as construction is due to complete 6 months prior to the end of the campaign. If you have not made a pledge to the Capital Campaign and would like to know more about the projects both completed and pending, please call Betsy Kamienowski (908-642-0955) or Pastor Kilgore (732-356-3575) for an appointment.

Faithfully yours, The Building Committee - Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Louis Kilgore, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson, and Advocate Al Donato

Oh My Goodness, Thank You!

2007-08-04T12:32:00.000-04:00

To the many volunteers who painted, stained, cleared out the CAVE, assembled, primed, and did prep and clean up work.

Our Hearty Thanks to George Blake, Jeanette Mulvey, Nancy Swain, Andy and Deb Gugel, the Biedermann family –Adriana, Andy, Max and Kira, the DePierro family – Dave, Judy, Matthew and Samantha, and Elaine Tetreault. We so appreciate all the work and time so many people have donated!

The JOBS for VOLUNTEERS list is posted in the Porte Cochere, with supplies you will need. Come and see what’s left to do! Carpet was installed in the Media Control Room and the new shelving and countertops are ready for installation also. The last of the Phase 1 punch list items are being completed – soon we will be fully into Phase 2 construction.

The sanctuary will be professionally cleaned on Monday.

The new sanctuary doors and final plaster/paint touch-ups will be done by Artech later in the week.

Planning is also underway to move the financial office upstairs and out of the construction area/new Youth Center.

The office in the choir room will be converted to the Choir Director’s office with additional needed storage just for music and supplies.

CAVE demolition began – ceilings are done and so are the walls! What a great open space this will be!

The organ restoration is proceeding slowly – that will not be in use until the end of August. We expect to be back in the sanctuary for worship the weekend of August 18/19.

Building Committee: Beth Bowlby, Dave Costain, Lester Erich, Ray Ferreira, Betsy Kamienowski, Louis Kilgore, Tom Rodgers, Carol Wilson, and Advocate Al Donato