Next Steps Update

As readers of The Shiloh Insider by now know, Shiloh Church is progressing on its 3.7 million dollar facility improvement plan. A few years back, about the time that the recession hit in 2008, Shiloh decided that it would be better to pursue the facility plan in phases rather than attempt an overall capital campaign, doing all the work at once. Shiloh has already achieved nearly one million dollars' worth of improvements since inception.

Earlier this year, Shiloh applied for and was granted the funds necessary to replace the congregation's aging organ console. Thanks to the Fred Luther Memorial Foundation, Shiloh Church has removed its old console, and has shared that console with our brothers and sisters at Oak Creek UCC. In cooperation with the console replacement, Shiloh determined that this was a perfect time to take next steps in the facility plan by renovating the chancel.

Work began several months ago, but has been on hold until the removal of the old organ console. The chancel renovation includes extending the area backward an additional 12 feet and forward another 4'. It also includes movable monitor boxes, new electrical and audio/visual accessories, and an altered configuration for the front of the chancel area.

Work is now again well underway. The old console has been removed, and is in the hands of Oak Creek. The back wall and side walls of the rear of the chancel have been framed. Much of the electrical work has been completed. The front steps have been removed, and we are just starting to frame the front chancel expansion.

A word of appreciation is due for those who have helped with the project, especially Ed Kanaga, David Saelens, Larry and Carol Oldham, Sheldon Carr, Jo Anne Orihood, and staff members Jay McMillen, John Rabius, Mark Barnhill, Aaron Sheaffer, and our project coordinator, Sid Manley. Others can help. As soon as we schedule a framing and electrical inspection, we can begin to dry wall and mud. We are looking for a few skilled persons to assist us. If you are interested, talk with Sid Manley or myself. We are also looking for crews who are willing to come in on Saturdays and remove the dust that has accumulated throughout the week. 

The flooring has been an issue. The crew had to alter the plan for the flooring by removing an additional layer of subfloor. We thank the Women's Board for agreeing to cover much of that additional cost. By the way, it looks as though the project will come in around the budgeted $25,000, if we continue to receive some outside support form members and organizations within the church.

There has been one semi-serious injury, with an unnamed volunteer stepping on a nail. It penetrated the bottom of his foot, even through thick soles. This is a reminder, then, to exercise great care in moving through the construction area. Nails and screws are everywhere. It is very dusty. If you walk through the area, you are likely to step on nails and screws and become dusty.

Next Steps is certainly progressing. Our goal is to coordinate the end of the chancel renovation with the arrival and installation of the new organ console. Dedication of both the new organ console and the chancel expansion will take place on World Communion Sunday, October 7.

See You Sunday!