Sacred Space

Cupola Placed on Entrance Canopy

2011-02-23T19:50:00.007-05:00

On February 15, 2011, the cupola was installed on top of the canopy over the new main entrance. The cupola creates a visual cue for visitors as they enter the west parking lot and look for the church entrance.The cupola was manufactured by Campbellsville Industries in Kentucky and installed under the supervision of Frank Rewold and Son. The cupola was designed by Ron Cieslak, of Merritt Cieslak Design, to match Redeemer's distinctive exterior decor. The cupola was designed to complement, but not compete with, Redeemer's main steeple erected in 1957. A cross was custom made and place on top of the cupola. The cupola itself is made of maintenance-free materials and is supported by a steel structure just underneath the roof of the new drop-off canopy. A 65 foot crane was used to assemble the cupola and lower it into position before workmen climbed inside the cupola to finish the installation.

Sacred Space Giving Report - 12/31/10

2011-01-16T18:08:00.001-05:00

At December 31, 2010, our Sacred Space giving was as follows:

Total gifts given and pledged to the three year capital stewardship campaign totaled $3,998,203. This total of $3.99 million can be broken down as follows:

- Pledged Gifts, $2,490,000,
- Unpledged Gifts, $1,469,000,
- Interest Income, $39,000.

November gifts totaled $85,000 and December gifts totaled $102,000. The pastors, staff and steering committee are all so grateful for the ongoing sacrifices made by each and every family.

Enthusiasm and giving remains high as we near the completion of the construction phase of the capital campaign. Final construction activity will culminate this month (January, ’11) with the placement of the cupola over the new main entrance.

Of the total $3.99 million in gifts, $2.89 million has been collected to date. The difference, just under $1.1 million, represents outstanding pledges spread over the remaining 15 months of the capital stewardship campaign. We are now 21 months into our 36 month capital stewardship campaign, which runs from April 2009 to March 2012.

New gifts, including unpledged gifts, continue to be made each month (over $21,000 in December.)

We are very, very close to topping the $4 million mark for the campaign. We continue to set aside a contingency against pledge receivables. This contingency will assure that we are able to completely pay-off our outstanding construction loan. As of December 31, 2010, the outstanding construction loan was at $873,000.

Town Square Dedication

2010-12-08T22:29:00.007-05:00

After the final worship service on Sunday, November 28, hundreds of Redeemer members and guests moved to the new Town Square for the dedication of this new Sacred Space.

Pastor Cary Richert lead those in attendance through a short dedication service, which borrowed from the 1957 order of dedication services for our then renovated sanctuary.Pastor Randy Schlak then invited the assembled group to proceed outside onto the steps of the new Main Entrance where the new date stone, marked "AD 2010", was blessed, before being permanently placed just outside the doors.Hundreds of members in the days leading up to the date stone laying ceremony had each drafted personal letters, to a future generation of Redeemer members. These "2010" letters, written by children and adults, were placed securely behind the new date stone, for the benefit of those in the future.

Below the "2010" stone now lays the "1970" date stone (that was moved 50 feet south from where it had been installed outside the old West Entrance.)

And just above the "2010" stone is a third stone, left blank, as an intentional signal to future Redeemer members to boldly consider what additional work may be needed to expand our mission and ministries in His name.

Many special guests attended the dedication service. Leadership Team President, Joe Conte, spoke, as did our Head Elder, Rick Russ. The services were also attended by our stewardship consultant, Greg Gibbs, our construction superintendent, Craig Collins, and the Mayor of the City of Birmingham, Gordon Rinschler. Also present were Rick McDonald and David Mammel who both served as Leadership Team President and Sacred Space steering committee members over the five year project term.

At the conclusion of the morning's celebration, Steve Scheidt was presented a special plaque for the new lower level classroom "named in thankfulness for his hard work and dedication to this Sacred Space we call Redeemer."

Westmaple Rededication

2010-12-08T22:07:00.007-05:00

On Sunday, November 28, as part of our Grand Opening and Dedication celebration we had the special opportunity to rededicate our Westmaple Nursery. After a summer of construction that lead to the renovation of our three existing classrooms, the building of two new classrooms, and a new teacher's workroom, we were happy to once again stand together in the main hallway of Westmaple. Presiding over the rededication was Pastor Mark Wuggazer. This was notable on many levels, not the least of which was the fact that Mark's Grandmother, Myrtle Wuggazer, was the founder and first school director of Westmaple Nursery. Mark's father, Pastor Duane Wuggazer, long-time Senior Pastor at Redeemer, still sits on the Westmaple Board of Directors. Along with our current Westmaple Director, Pat Raezler, and many of our Westmaple teachers, we all enjoyed the children as they serenaded us outside the new classrooms.

Music and Food at Grand Opening

2010-12-08T16:32:00.005-05:00

Redeemer's many musical talents were on full display at our Grand Opening celebration. We appreciate all the children, youth and adults that contributed to making our big morning even more special.

We had carolers singing in the Town Square, as well as a brass quintet. We had our littlest children singing, and our high school Heart of Worship band performing on the stage.

And our Chancel Choir performed in their newly renovated music room as well as during worship service along with our Celebration Singers.

A very special menu was prepared by our own Donna Hollis and served by her capable team throughout the morning.

Thanks to all of you.

More Grand Opening Celebration

2010-12-08T16:23:00.007-05:00

Enjoy these photographs taken by Dave Peterson...

Grand Opening Celebration

2010-12-08T16:13:00.006-05:00

Enjoy these photographs from our November 28 Grand Opening celebration. A special thanks to Bill Leahy for taking these pictures, and so many more, throughout the project.

Come One, Come All

2010-11-27T00:23:00.002-05:00

Our construction is nearly complete. It is time to celebrate. Please join us on Sunday, November 28 as we dedicate and celebrate our new Sacred Space. Events are planned all through the morning, including music and food, and an opportunity to tour the newly renovated spaces.

Date Stone

2010-11-19T09:47:00.006-05:00

At every step in the process Redeemer members and friends have had the opportunity to personally leave their mark on our Sacred Space project.

At the April kick-off, Easter weekend 2010, each of us had the opportunity to sign the large steel beam that forms that top of our new worship and performance stage in the renovated gymnasium.

At or annual Homecoming picnic, September 2010, each of us had the opportunity to sign the floor of the new Town Square that greets members and visitors as they first enter Redeemer.
And now, another special opportunity, to leave a message for a future generation of Redeemer members, by writing a personal letter to be secured behind the "2010" date stone that will be installed on Sunday, November 28, 2010.

What should the letter say? Consider writing about what Redeemer has meant to you and your family in your faith walk; perhaps examples of how the Lord has worked in your life, or, the relationship you have with your Lord; perhaps a favorite Bible verse; perhaps a hope or prayer you have for future generations of Redeemerites. And for the kids, it might just be a crayon drawing of themselves at church. Of course we would accept crayon drawings from adults as well...

Where should I take the letter? Just outside Pastor Randy's office, at the side of the sanctuary, is a white box where you can place your letter. For your letter to be installed behind the date stone it must be deposited before 10:30 a.m. the morning of Sunday, November 28.

By the way, why three date stones in the photo above? The bottom stone, from the old West Entrance, installed during the 1970 renovation, was saved and re-installed. In the middle, our 2010 date stone, commemorating our Sacred Space renewal. And on top, a third stone, to be left blank, as a message to future Redeemer members, that our work is never finished as we seek to spread the Good News.

Carpet and Counters

2010-11-19T09:26:00.008-05:00

Our new central gathering space, the Town Square, accessible from the new Main Entrance, is nearing completion. The number of tradesmen trucks parked in our lot each day is dwindling to just a handful.

The work this past week concentrated on carpet and counters as well as a host of other important details (working coffee pots, signs on the new bathrooms, labels on light switches, etc.)

Excitement is buiding as we move towards our Grand Opening and Dedication on Sunday, November 28. Remember, the Westmaple Rededication, lead by Pastor Mark Wuggazer, will take place at 10:00 a.m. that day. And the Town Square Dedication and Date Stone Laying, lead by Pastor Randy Schlak, will take place at 11:45 a.m. that day. Worship services are at 8:00 a.m. (chapel), 9:00 a.m. (sanctuary) and 10:30 a.m. (sanctuary.) Please join us for a great morning -- with special food and music planned throughout the building.

Construction for Week of 11-15 and 11-22

2010-11-12T17:31:00.021-05:00

With just two weeks until the Grand Opening and Dedication (Sunday, November 28) only finish work remains to be completed around Redeemer.

As you can see from the photographs below, that work is largely carpet installation, counter surfaces, final appliance installation and touch-up painting. As always, double click on a picture for a larger image.
.
The photos below show the new children's nursery, including a connected crib room and bathroom. A decision has not been made at this time to extend the new "bubbles" carpet into the Sanctuary.

These photos show the partial installation of the new Town Square carpet, a custom weave with colors selected from the palette of colors that exist around Redeemer, from our 'Sanctuary red' to our 'Great Room blue.'

View from the new main entrance

View from the new serving counter

View of the new serving counter

View of the new lobby area

View to the Gym from the Sanctuary hallway

View to the Sanctuary from the Gym doors
View of new Gym entrance

View of new Town Square
Courtyard on right, Main Entrance on left
Light fixtures were installed this week
Trim work in the new stairwell was completed

Cove lighting installed in main hallway

Whitewash

2010-11-05T18:26:00.006-04:00

The painters arrived this week to begin the interior prep and painting of the Town Square. Things certainly look brighter than just a few days ago. Final coats will be applied next week. How about Easter Egg Purple?

Stairway to Heaven

2010-11-05T17:42:00.005-04:00

Work continued this week around the Town Square including detailed carpentry work on the main staircase that connects the new lower level classrooms with the main level Town Square. The staircase will be carpeted and brass light fixtures placed on the walls.

Town Square Cafe

2010-11-03T23:07:00.004-04:00

As you come into the Town Square through the new main entrance you immediately enter into a large lobby. To your right is the new nursery, a women's bathroom and sign clearly marking the way to the sanctuary. Straight ahead is a wall of windows that look onto the new renovated courtyard. To your left is a wood paneled fireplace which subtly separates the lobby from an adjacent space that has been nicknamed the Town Square Cafe.

This space includes cafe tables and seating around the fireplace and a long serving counter. Behind the serving counter is a simple layout of appliances and utensils for serving coffee and other food items (think Advent by Candlelight, November 30!)

Work is proceeding in all these areas this week, including cabinet installation, appliance installation, and painting.

Nursery Cabinetry Installed

2010-11-03T22:49:00.004-04:00

A new children's nursery located off the Town Square, near the new main entrance, is nearly complete. The ceiling and new lights have been installed. Tile work in the bathroom is complete. This week cabinets are being installed. The cabinets are for both toy storage and for the adult nursery workers. The nursery has it's own bathroom and a separate room for sleeping cribs and nursing mothers. The nursery is available on Sunday mornings during worship and for other special events throughout the week.

Four Weeks and Counting ...

2010-10-29T21:07:00.003-04:00

Crews continue to work inside the Town Square in preparation for the Grand Opening and Dedication on Sunday, November 28. Finish work is nearly complete around the archways and columns that define the "main street" hallway that connects the Sanctuary and the renovated Gymnasium. Chair rail and panels detail the walls surrounding the Town Square. Painting of the walls and trim ("dove white") will begin shortly.

There are still final touches being made to the exterior of the new main entrance that leads to the Town Square and Sanctuary. Decorative white railing and hand safety rails were installed this past week. The colonial columns are being sanded and readied for their final paint coat.

The final exterior feature will be the new cupola which will sit a top the canopy that covers the new main entrance.

Below the Town Square the two new lower level classrooms are nearly complete. Carpet was laid this past week. A movable wall partition that divides the room in two will soon be installed.

Construction for Week of 11-1-10 & 11-8-10

2010-10-29T20:43:00.011-04:00

It is hard to believe that we are just weeks away from our November 28 "Grand Opening and Dedication" Sunday.

The landscape that can be completed this Fall is now in place, with some minor work left for the Spring planting season.

The diseased trees that were removed from the front lawn have once again revealed our beautiful chapel and the clock tower steeple that rests above.

Punch list work is being completed in the areas of the church that have already been made available for use, including the renovated gymnasium, the Westmaple Nursery and the new music room.

Most of the remaining effort is concentrated on the main floor of the new Town Square, including finish work, painting and the installation of appliances, lighting and new ministry information monitors.

The new south stairwell just outside the chapel was painted this week and will be ready for carpet over the next ten days.

The two week schedule for 11-01-10 thru 11-15-10 is as follows:

Town Square
· Main Level
· Begin final painting
· Begin final plumbing
· Install ceiling pads

· Lower Level
· Begin final cleaning

Interior infrastructure
· Complete painting South stairwell

Town Square Finishes

2010-10-21T14:49:00.005-04:00

Interior finishes continue throughout the main level of the town square. A team of finish carpenters are hard at working providing architectural detail around the fireplace, walls and columns that surround the open entry area and new cafe.

The interior wall construction is also nearly complete as the tradesman have successfully implemented a variety of arches around the entrance and main hallway leading from the sanctuary to the renovated gymnasium.

Construction for Week of 10-18-10 & 10-25-10

2010-10-21T14:10:00.005-04:00

The new landscape work around the church exterior is nearly complete, with the exception of seasonal plants and flowers that will be planted next spring. Mulch has been added in all the new planting areas.

The inside courtyard is now complete. The plantings on the west drive are complete, and the east drive is nearly complete. A new maple tree was planted behind Westmaple. A few more trees remain to be planted around the new west parking area.

Finally, two diseased trees were removed this week in front of the chapel, as were some overgrown shrubs at the entrance to the front circle drive.

The full two week schedule for 10-18-10 through 11-01-10 is as follows:

- Stage addition completed and fully operational

- West Maple Classrooms complete and fully operational

- Music Wing complete and fully operational

- Town Square
·Main Level
· Continue with finish operations
· Complete open ceiling inspections

.Lower Level
· Complete carpet installation
· Complete connection to existing corridor
· Begin final cleaning

.Exterior
· Remove construction fencing

- Interior infrastructure
· Complete South stairwell

Fall Spectacular

2010-10-15T15:29:00.004-04:00

Join us on Sunday and enjoy the fall spectacular.

Landcape Work Begins

2010-10-15T15:12:00.004-04:00

A substantial amount of landscape work was completed this week. While this will begin to give the site a more finished look, please understand that the entire landscape design will not be implemented until next Spring.

A few of the new trees that will ring the new west parking area have been planted. This improves the sight lines for our neighbors to the west and the view from Maple Road.

Trees and shrubs around the new main entrance and the west gym wall have been planted. Other plantings (perennials and other plants) will follow.

Work on the east side of the church, including both the Westmaple wing and the Chapel have also received their initial plantings. The east wall of Westmaple has additional "butterfly" trees and plantings that will follow.Two diseased maple trees in front of the Chapel have been marked for removal. In the picture below you can see the "killer" fungus that has overtaken the tree.

A Colonial Entrance

2010-10-15T15:02:00.004-04:00

The main entrance on the west side of the building, including a new drop-off canopy, took a major step forward this week. Curbs and asphalt were completed around the entrance and landscape work has begun.

The architectural details that tie the new entrance to the remaining colonial style are also underway as slender white columns have been added all around the entrance stairs and entrance ramp. These columns will be detailed and painted over the next few days. Lighting will be added inside the new canopy.

The final touch will be a large white cupola that will be installed on top of the canopy just prior to our November 28 opening.

Town Square Interior Takes Shape

2010-10-15T14:53:00.004-04:00

The interior of the Town Square is an active place these days. Dry wall workers and finished carpenters are all about completing the interior walls, counters, fireplace and hallways.

Classrooms Receive Finishes

2010-10-15T14:45:00.006-04:00

The lower level classrooms below the town square are in the finishing stages. The rooms have been trimmed and painted. Soffit and overhead lights are in place and the ceiling is partially installed.

These rooms will be used for a variety of groups, including confirmation classes, VBS, adult Bible study, community groups and perhaps Sunday School.

Carpet will be laid over the next couple of weeks. The rooms will be available for use November 28.

Construction for Week of 10-11-10 and 10-18-10

2010-10-11T12:16:00.005-04:00

The two week schedule for 10-11-10 through 10-25-10

Site improvements
. complete asphalt at Main Entrance
. complete landscaping

Town Square

Main Level
· Complete rough inspection process
· Complete drywall operations
· Begin ceiling grid
· Continue with Town Square finishes

Lower Level
· Complete inspection process
· Continue with room finishes
· Continue with finish paint
· Prep for carpet installation

Exterior
· Complete stone cap and window sills
· Install aluminum door systems

Interior infrastructure
· Complete South stairwell
· Complete existing stairway infill

Stage addition completed and fully operational

West Maple Classrooms complete and fully operational

Music Wing complete and fully operational

Lower Level Classrooms

2010-10-07T18:04:00.001-04:00

Work is proceeding on the new lower level classrooms directly below the new Town Square. In the photo below you can see that the ceiling grid is being installed. A primer coat is on the walls and wood trim is being added around the room.

Construction for Week of 9-27 to 10-4-10

2010-09-30T15:00:00.005-04:00

New windows were installed on the east wall of the Town Square facing into the courtyard. Compared with the previous, smaller, single pane windows that were in roughly the same location, the new window wall features double doors with brass hardware (that match the Main Entrance and Westmaple Entrance), tinted glass to preserve the carpet and furnishings and substantial improvement in insulation value that will reduce our energy consumption while at the same time providing more natural light.

With a little imagination one can begin to see what the interior of the new Town Square will look like in two months. The first photograph below shows the fireplace -- the bright green drywall is the hearth seat and the fireplace rises between the two steel columns. The second photograph show a large opening which will ultimately be the central serving area in the Town Square with a large kitchen island and long serving counter accessible from either side.

The third photograph is the view of the Town Square upon entering the new main doors, with the courtyard visible on the far side of the room.

Work started this week to install new roofing shingles on the west end of the newly renovated music wing. Due to a lack of insulation and venting many years ago, the roof was in need of repair. The underlying issues have been addressed (all new ceiling insulation in the music wing, with open vents) and now the new roof is being installed to match the new gym and main entrance roof areas.

The two week schedule for 9-27-10 through 10-11-10 is as follows:

Stage addition completed and fully operational

West Maple Classrooms complete and fully operational

Music Wing complete and fully operational

Site improvements

. Complete Asphalt at Main Entrance
. Complete landscaping

Town Square
· Main Level
· Complete main floor ceiling framing
· Complete main floor ceiling mechanical, electrical
· Inspection process
· Begin drywall operations
· Begin layout for room finishes
· Lower Level
· Continue with room finishes
· Exterior
· Complete stone cap and window sills
· Install aluminum door systems

Interior infrastructure
· Minor wall repairs and painting
· Complete South stairwell
· Ceiling pads Lower Level classroom corridors
· Begin existing stairway infill

Special Coffee Hour September 26

2010-09-24T15:55:00.007-04:00

The Sacred Space project team responsible for ongoing communication will be hosting a special coffee hour this Sunday. Stop by the renovated gym for a bite to eat and have your questions answered.

A photo slide show will be running continuously throughout coffee hour including updates on member giving and the overall project budget.

Brief updates will also be provided during each of the three worship services.
See you Sunday!

Best Kept Secret

2010-09-24T15:49:00.003-04:00

Perhaps the best kept secret in the Sacred Space project plan is the addition of two large multi-purpose classrooms immediately below the Town Square. Each room individually is nearly the size of the Great Room. A movable partition will allow us to use the rooms individually or together.

The rooms are accessible from either the existing elevator or the new stairwell immediately inside the new main entrance. The carpeted rooms will be equipped with audio/visual capability, storage room and a welcome/registration area.

Ceiling work and painting will begin over the next two weeks.

Work Continues In and Around Town Square

2010-09-24T15:37:00.005-04:00

Work continues both inside and outside the new Town Square. More details have been added outside, including the (re)hanging of light fixtures that adorned the former west entrance.
Inside, less visible work continues as the interior walls and associated wiring and plumbing are being completed. Drywall will follow shortly.

Below you can see the ceiling work around the fireplace that is a central feature of the new Town Square.

Choir Begins Rehearsals in New Music Room

2010-09-24T15:29:00.004-04:00

Choir practices began this week, Thursday, in the new music room. The piano was professionally moved back to the music room. Music files, choir robes and the like have also been returned. Two new bathrooms are fully functional.

Our new music director, Steve Segraves and other members of the music team are compiling the final "punch list" to bring the room to a finished state.

Main Entrance Doors Installed

2010-09-16T17:13:00.006-04:00

The new main entrance is taking shape.

The front doors are being installed this week, similar in design to those just installed at the front entrance to Westmaple Nursery. The new doors and surrounding windows bring more light to the interior and more insight to our visitors passing through the doors for the first time.Work on the canopy proceeds ... the barrel ceiling is nearly complete. Lights will shine up across the curved ceiling. Limestone caps will sit on top of the red brick walls. Slender white columns will soon wrap around the exposed steel beams.
Asphalt will be laid around the newly poured sidewalks.

Homecoming 2010

2010-09-16T15:55:00.007-04:00

Sunday, September 12, 2010 marked Redeemer's annual Homecoming Celebration. Unique this year was the opportunity for members and visitors to leave a personal inscription on the floor of the newly constructed entrance and town square. These personal "signatures", signed on bare concrete, will then to be covered with carpet and left for the duration. People signed both as individuals and as families, from eight to eighty-eight. Many left the name of one they hope and pray will find Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. Many left a favorite bible verse. Others noted their "official" Redeemer dates (baptism, marriage, etc.) And others the names of sainted loved ones.

Below is a small sampling of the hundreds of inscriptions left in the new Town Square...

Meet the Teachers...

2010-09-08T14:45:00.007-04:00

Westmaple parents and their children are stopping by the school at the end of the week to meet their '10-'11 teachers and see their new room for the coming school year. School starts Monday, September 13.

Only small details remain to be completed, including wireless connectivity throughout the school wing, carpet in the main hallway, some additional furniture items (on order) and some added cabinetry.

The teachers, as always, have done a wonderful job setting up their rooms...

Sidewalks Poured Around Main Entrance

2010-09-08T14:36:00.002-04:00

The sidewalks around the new main entrance have been poured. A handicap accessible ramp leads up one side of the entrance and a double set of double doors awaits at the top of the stairs. The next step is to restore asphalt and the parking islands that have been impacted by the construction. At the same time white colonial columns will be added (like those at the new Westmaple entrance) around the canopy, steps and ramp.

Redemption Services Ready for Blast Off

2010-09-08T14:25:00.003-04:00

The gymnasium floor is now in place and the athletic courts have been striped.

The new sound system was being tuned this week to see what additional acoustic treatment might be required.

The stage curtains have been hung.

Musicians for the new Redemption worship service have their first rehearsal in the completed space tonight.

Remember, regular worship services start this coming Wednesday, September 15 at 7:15 p.m. Pizza and dinner served starting at 5:30 p.m. And before services, lots of activity including adult Bible study, confirmation instruction, teen core group, "hands-on" children's program, and parent networking small group. Check it out.

Spit and Polish

2010-09-08T14:18:00.002-04:00

The new music room is nearly complete and ready for the choir to return this week. A few items remain to be hung ... a white board, mirrors and finishing touches in the two new bathrooms.

Check out the newly waxed floors. They will never look this good again...

September Parking and Entry Bulletin

2010-09-07T10:21:00.002-04:00

Construction is now confined primarily to the new main entrance on the west side of Redeemer. Little by little things are returning to normal. Two important items to note for the month of September:

1. The old west entrance, soon to be the new main entrance, is still closed until further notice – sometime in late November. However:
- The new gymnasium door off the West Parking Lot is open once again, as the new gym floor has been installed., and
- The music wing door is open once again, as the music practice room renovations are complete.
- The Westmaple Nursery doors are open once again, as the school renovations are complete.

2. By order of the state fire marshal we have been required to temporarily close the stairwell along side the chapel that leads to the lower level. Until we implement a permanent solution you may get to the lower level using a new stairwell that was recently constructed at the end of the office corridor.

Remember, access to the sanctuary is possible through the staff office hallway via the Chapel doors, through the church office hallway via the Office doors, through the gymnasium via the new northwest gymnasium doors (until August 16), via the Westmaple doors, via the music wing doors and of course through the Narthex via the church front doors.

We continue with the specially marked parking spaces for those that require proximity to church doors. These are for anyone that requires their use.

Thanks for your patience and understanding.

Construction for Week of 9-6-10 and 9-13-10

2010-09-03T12:06:00.006-04:00

Architect Ron Cieslak and Superintendent Craig Collins

Two week schedule for 9-6-10 thru 9-20-10:

Stage addition completed and fully operational

Westmaple Classrooms complete and fully operational

Music Wing complete and fully operational

Site improvements
· Complete landscaping & restoration of all areas of except Main Entrance outside Town Square
· Begin clearing construction equipment

Town Square
· Main floor ceiling framing
· Main floor ceiling mechanical, electrical
· Drywall lower level classrooms
· Exterior EFIS finishes
· Begin lower level finishes

Interior infrastructure
· Minor wall repairs and painting
· Complete new south stairwell
· Ceiling pads Lower Level classroom corridors

Music Room Awaits Occupants

2010-09-02T17:49:00.002-04:00

The music room is nearly ready for occupancy. The floor was laid this week and the ceiling panels were placed. Painting was completed today. All the fixtures are installed in the two new bathrooms. The air conditioning was running on this 80 degree day.Next week Tuesday the floors will be waxed and the music files, chairs, bells and piano will be returned to the room. All that remains are finishing touches like white boards, base board trim and cleanup of the robe cabinets.

Courtyard Restoration Begins

2010-09-02T17:38:00.005-04:00

Steps are being taken to return the courtyard to it's former beauty. With input from our Garden Club the landscaper has been able to make great strides this past week.

The brick pavers have been laid around the new stairs from the Town Square. Trees have been trimmed to provide a more open view across the space. Planting soil has been added to provide our gardeners the opportunity to complete the courtyard plantings. Finally, new stone is being added at the base of the retaining wall that lines the south (lower level) wall of the courtyard. Surrounded by brick, the courtyard is typically a "hot spot" in terms of water needs. A new rain sensor will be added to the courtyard irrigation system to protect our plantings.

Will there be ducks in our future?

Westmaple Furniture Arrives

2010-09-02T17:32:00.003-04:00

The Westmaple teachers are busy preparing for the arrival of their students and parents next week. One of the final steps was the delivery of new tables and chairs. Special 12" and 14" chairs have arrived along with tables that are adjustable to the height of the students.

Finishing Touches Added to Gym

2010-09-02T17:06:00.011-04:00

Two finishing touches are being completed this week inside the renovated gymnasium. Lines for the athletic courts are being painted and new curtains are being prepared for the back and side of the new stage.

To keep costs down, volunteers from Redeemer have reshaped our existing curtains to fit the new stage space. Yes, people do still have sewing skills. Many thanks for their efforts ... sewing, ironing, and steaming.

The other project involved taping and painting lines for our basketball court and volleyball court.

Main Entrance Takes Shape

2010-09-01T20:23:00.004-04:00

The new main entrance is taking shape on the west side of Redeemer. The drop-off area has been shingled and trim work has begun. White columns will be added to both sides of the canopy. The stairs have been poured this week (above), and the covered ramp is already in place (see below.)

Painted into a corner...

2010-08-31T18:46:00.003-04:00

Everyone is familiar with the old expression, "don't paint yourself into a corner ..." Unless that is, the corner has a safe exit. Over the past week the new gymnasium floor has been installed. The installation involves a four layer process that provides cushioning, durability and a smooth attractive top finish. When the heat and humidity subside the lines will be added for volleyball and basketball. Redeemer marks another historic milestone with the addition of their first-ever basketball three point line. ;)

New Music Room Nears Completion

2010-08-31T18:29:00.005-04:00

The creation of the new Town Square and the relocation of the old nursery necessitated renovation of the music wing. A new music practice room has been created from the space formerly occupied by the men's and women's robe rooms.

The new music practice room will be ready and waiting when the choir and hand bell groups return after Labor Day.

The new music practice room, which is slightly larger than the previous room, has new attic insulation, new room-controlled heating and cooling, new acoustic ceiling, new lighting, and a new vinyl floor. The old custom cabinets that housed choir robes, hand bells, elder and acolyte robes have been reinstalled around the perimeter of the room. And space is available for the music library cabinets that house our vocal and hand bell music.

Two new bathrooms have been constructed, accessible through an archway, off the north end of the music practice room. The tile work is complete in the bathrooms and ready for fixtures to be installed.

The new vinyl floor (not pictured) was installed this week. New carpet in the hallway just outside the music practice room will be installed in September.

New Fire Detection and Alarm System Installed

2010-08-31T18:20:00.006-04:00

A new integrated fire system that monitors and alerts occupants to potential smoke and fire within the church has recently been installed. The first full scale tests of the new system are being conducted as new and renovated areas of the church are brought on line.

A noticeable new feature is a voice activated alarm (think navigation system in your car) that informs occupants in case of an emergency. The system is integrated with the new fire suppression capability (sprinklers) that have been installed in the ceilings of newly renovated areas within Redeemer.

Classroom Doors Nearly Open

2010-08-22T16:33:00.003-04:00

The final construction work is underway at our Westmaple Nursery. Final inspections are also underway. And the teachers are busy preparing their classrooms for the return of children after Labor Day.

Most of the major work has been completed. For the three existing classrooms this includes new ceilings and lights, new carpet, new room-controlled heating and cooling, a new fire suppression system, and new paint.

For the two all-new classrooms the work includes all of the above enhancements plus new bathrooms, new cabinets and new cubbies for the children. A new school director's office and new teacher's work room were also completed during the renovation process.

Inspections are required at a city, county and state level to meet all requirements for the care of our children. We are more than midway through this inspection process. Everything is proceeding on schedule.

Work left to be done includes new carpet in the main hallway, exterior trim work around the front entrance, some final cabinetry work in the new classrooms and the arrival of new tables and chairs for the new classrooms.

The teachers began their preparations this past week, returning their belongings to the classroom, but not until a thorough post-construction cleaning was complete. Children return with their parents for an advance peek at their new rooms (and teachers) on September 9 and 10. Redeemer members can tour the "new" Westmaple at the Homecoming picnic on September 12. Classes begin the following day.

Construction for Week of 8-23-10 and 8-30-10

2010-08-20T21:25:00.010-04:00

Sod was laid in the islands around the new parking area to the west of the sanctuary. The irrigation system has been installed and trees will be planted around the parking area next month. Interior work in the town square is taking place, including mechanical and electrical work in the ceilings and walls.

The two new lower level classrooms below the town square are completely framed and ready for finishes over the next few weeks.

A folding partition (see the white ceiling track below) will run across the room allowing the space to be used for two classrooms or one large meeting space.

The steps to the courtyard are poured. Handrails will be installed and the original brick pavers in the courtyard will be re-laid to fit the new stairs. Cleanup and top soil will make the courtyard ready for final plantings.

The roofing shingles for the main entrance canopy were installed this week. The new entry stairs will be completed once all the "heavy" materials are staged inside the town square. Until then the main entry continues to serve as our main loading dock.

Work started this week on the new gymnasium floor. The first step was to remove the old 1970 tile and adhesive, bringing the floor back to bare concrete. From here the new floor can be poured and lined. The result will be a more flexible surface that serves multiple activities, from coffee hour to worship to basketball.

Renovations to the music wing continue. The existing custom robe cabinets were re-installed in the new music practice room. New insulation has been placed in the ceiling and the ceiling grid has been installed. Tile and bathroom fixtures in the two new bathrooms will be installed shortly.

The two week schedule 8-23-10 through 9-6-10:

Gymnasium and Stage addition
· install final flooring
· complete final inspections

. tune sound system and acoustics

Town Square
· main floor ceiling framing
· main floor ceiling mechanical, electrical
· drywall lower level classrooms
· exterior EFIS finishes
· begin lower level classroom and hallway finishes

Interior infrastructure
· install stairs at new south stairway
· complete Fire alarm and Fire suppression
· install ceiling pads throughout hallways

West Maple Classrooms
· complete final inspection process
· prepare for kids arrival

Music Wing Renovation
· ceramic tile floors in new bathrooms
· complete electrical
· complete ceiling mechanical
· final paint
· install vinyl floor tile in music practice room
· complete inspection process

Site improvements
· continue with landscape repairs

Kamp Reunion Concert Debuts New Gym

2010-08-13T01:06:00.005-04:00

Last night's Kamp concert and reunion was a highlight of the summer season for Redeemer youth and friends. Peter Neuman was the headliner with our own Heart of Worship band opening the evening. Throw in some camp skits, some dancing and a lot of singing and you had a great evening for all.

It was our first chance to try out the new sound, new lights and new visuals in the gym. Thanks to the many volunteers that are learning the new systems as we all get ready for our regular weekly Redemption services on Wednesday evenings, starting this fall.

Entrance Canopy Takes Shape

2010-08-13T00:51:00.004-04:00

The new entrance canopy that will allow drop-off and pick-up on rainy days is beginning to take final shape. By the way, the fancy word for this kind of entrance canopy, borrowed from the French, is porte-cochere.

Two sets of divided-glass doors like those at the new Westmaple entrance will complement colonial trim and slender white columns around the entrance. The final touch includes a new colonial cupola that will rest atop the canopy clearly marking the main entrance for all to see.

Progress Each Day

2010-08-13T00:38:00.006-04:00

Lots of progress to report in areas that aren't always visible to Redeemer members and visitors. Take a look.

Work installing sheet rock on the walls in the lower level classrooms has started ...

Work on the renovated music room, including new bathrooms has started ...

Work on the new nursery has started, including the new crib room ...

Work on the final carpet and millwork in Westmaple has started ...

Work on the new gym floor is about to start (this coming week) ...

Work on the landscaping and lighting around the new parking lot is about to begin ...

Step Right Up ...

2010-08-13T00:27:00.005-04:00

New stairs that provide access from the town square to the courtyard were poured this week. The main entrance and town square have been elevated to the same level as the sanctuary. This will eliminate the narrow stairs that funneled worshippers to and from church in the past. But this means we now need new access to the courtyard. The forms were built and the stairs were started this week. Note that access to the courtyard is still possible without navigating stairs via the Great Room.

Power Outage

2010-08-13T00:17:00.004-04:00

No, we didn't lose power from the thunderstorms rumbling through the area last week. Rather a power shut down was planned in order to give workers the opportunity to install upgraded electrical service to Redeemer. This work is now complete and the new electrical capability is fully in place.

You wouldn't know it, but the air conditioning in the entire building is now running on the new electrical service. This includes existing space, like the sanctuary and renovated space like the gymnasium and the Westmaple wing.

The benefit to Redeemer is immediate. The temporary air conditioning unit that we were renting has now been returned. And earlier than expected. This will save the project several thousand dollars. And the new air conditioning units are much more efficient than the older units. More on our "green" savings in a future post.

Sacred Space Giving Report

2010-08-07T16:42:00.007-04:00

It has been 90 days since our last stewardship update on Sacred Space capital campaign gifts.

Total gifts given and pledged to the Sacred Space capital stewardship campaign totaled $3,953,000 as of July 31, 2010. This total of $3.95 million can be broken down as follows:

Pledged Gifts, $2,490,000 from 226 families
Unpledged Gifts, $1,424,000 from over 60 families
Interest Income, $39,000.

Over the past six months we have averaged over $106,000 per month in gifts. May gifts totaled $116,000, June gifts totaled $58,000 and July gifts totaled $190,000.

Even with slightly lower summer worship attendance, enthusiasm and giving remains high in the midst of the construction phase of the capital campaign. We are all so grateful for the ongoing sacrifices made by each and every family.

Of the total $3.95 million in gifts, $2.66 million has been collected to date. The difference, a little more than $1.29 million, represents outstanding pledges. We are now 16 months into our 36 month capital stewardship campaign, which runs from April 2009 to March 2012.

New gifts, pledged and unpledged, continue to be made each month. We still hope to top $4 million before the campaign is completed. We continue to set aside a contingency against pledge receivables. This contingency helps assure that we only spend what we can reasonably plan to collect at the end of the three year campaign.

On a related note, Redeemer’s annual giving campaign runs September to August each year. At the end of July, 11 months into the annual campaign, revenues of $1.17 million trail expenses by just a few thousand dollars (tenths of one percent) as we enter August, the last month of the fiscal year.

First Projects Nearing Completion

2010-08-07T15:54:00.005-04:00

The first two major pieces of Sacred Space are nearing completion.

The renovated gymnasium, with it's new worship and performance stage, audio/visual systems, all-purpose floor, exposed wood ceiling, new (dimmable) lighting, and air conditioning will be done by Labor Day. In fact, you can get your first look this coming Wednesday, August 11 at the camp reunion concert -- the first event hosted in the new space. Only the new floor remains to be installed after the concert, but before Labor Day. In the photo below you can the new acoustical panels which have been hung around the gymnasium, improving sound quality in the gym for all events -- worship, coffee hour, dinners and of course theater. In this photograph you can see the new exposed wood ceiling, three of the sixteen new energy-efficient light fixtures and one of the two new ceiling mounted audio/visual projectors.The second major piece of Sacred Space nearing completion is the renovated Westmaple Nursery wing. Two new classrooms, a teacher's work room, and a Director's office have been added to the three newly renovated classrooms. In the photo below you can see the new carpet has been laid, the cabinetry is complete, the new teacher-controllable HVAC is installed and the new ceiling tiles are ready to be placed after the new fire suppression system has it's final inspection.

Aerial View of Redeemer, May 2010

2010-08-06T00:13:00.002-04:00

View Larger Map

Blue, Yellow, Pink, ...

2010-08-03T14:21:00.006-04:00

Who is thinking about school on a lazy humid day in August? Well, for starters, the city, the county and the state -- all of whom must review, inspect and sign-off on Westmaple's readiness for our students next month. Fortunately, work proceeds on schedule, both inside and outside Westmaple.

Workers in the new classrooms are busy building cubbies, cabinets, and sinks for the children. The bathrooms, complete with junior fixtures are nearly complete. The new ceiling grid and lights are already in place. Meanwhile, the existing classrooms are receiving a face lift as well. New carpet and padding is being installed this week in the existing rooms. New ceilings and lights have already been installed.

Each room, new or existing, has received a fresh coat of paint ... selected by the Westmaple staff ... in shades of blue, yellow, pink and white.

Final Roofing Takes Place

2010-08-03T14:09:00.003-04:00

Final roofing, involving the same dimensional shingle that was used on the renovated gymnasium, is being completed this week. These new areas include the town square, the new main entrance and canopy and the ramp along the side of the music wing leading to the town square. Water proofing these areas will allow air to be circulated through the HVAC system which in turn creates a drier environment for the interior finish work to take place.

You can get your first look inside the town square and main entrance on Homecoming Sunday, September 12. While not yet open, the area will be on display that Sunday with another special opportunity to "sign" your way into Redeemer history ... more news to follow. (Think: beam signing in the gymnasium, but with more space to write your favorite Bible verse, a note to a loved one, or the name of someone you would like to bring to Christ ...)

Michigan Weather

2010-08-03T14:00:00.002-04:00

A new covered canopy is taking shape just outside the new main entrance. The canopy serves a dual purpose -- as a practical matter it provides cover for those rare days in Michigan when we see rain or snow on Sunday mornings. But the canopy also makes a visual statement to the visitor, a clear marker as to how and where to enter our church. The curved underside of the canopy will be softly lit so the entire entrance area glows even after dark. The canopy will be topped this fall with a cupola that matches Redeemer's colonial architecture.

Cover Your Ears ...

2010-08-03T13:49:00.005-04:00

New speakers are being installed above the new gym stage. Come listen on August 11 when the campers return for their annual camp concert gala. But the speakers aren't just for concerts ... they will be used in a variety of settings, including the new Wednesday evening Redemption services. Ever attend a luncheon or dinner in the gym and struggle to hear the speaker through the small portable microphone system. Not any longer. The speakers have been sized and tuned to support all these different kinds of events, from Westmaple graduation to Advent by Candlelight. The new acoustic wall panels which enhance sound quality in the gym will be installed later this week.

Watch that first step ...

2010-08-03T13:28:00.010-04:00

Current building code requires us to add another stairwell from our lower level, leading directly outside the building. This new stairwell is being carved from existing space at the end of the office corridor, just before the Chapel.

The doorway in the photo to the right will lead to new stairs that connect the lower level Sunday School corridor with the main level office corridor. The door also opens into a hallway that will pass directly outside, just west of the chapel porch.

The new parking lot expansion on the west side of Redeemer, closest to the music wing and sanctuary front doors is taking shape. The concrete curbs have been poured making ready for two layers of asphalt.

The electrical service throughout Redeemer is being upgraded. This has necessitated DTE installing new poles to our east, one behind the pharmacy and one next to the dry cleaners. This expanded service enters the building by the side of the chapel. All this electrical gear will be landscaped later in the year, when planting conditions are more favorable.

Construction for Week of 8-2-10 and 8-9-10

2010-08-02T11:30:00.013-04:00

The two week schedule for 8-2-10 through 8-16-10 is as follows:

Stage addition and Gym

· complete stage Audio/Visual package
· complete cleaning for church events
· begin final inspections

Town Square

· continue rough mechanical
. continue rough plumbing
. continue rough electrical
· lower level metal stud framing
· complete roof framing
· main floor wall framing
· main floor ceiling mechanical, electrical
· complete roofing systems

Interior infrastructure

· complete main level fire suppression installation
· continue with electrical relocation
· install stairs at new south stairway
· complete new ceiling grid
· complete open ceiling inspections

West Maple

· complete finish operations
· carpet existing classrooms
· begin asphalt repairs
· begin final inspection process

Music Wing

· complete drywall
· re-insulate roof system
· complete air conditioning system
· complete electrical and mechanical rough
· complete ceiling framing

Site improvements

· complete electrical service East side of building
· complete exterior walks
· complete new parking lot

Westmaple Entrance Takes Shape

2010-07-31T17:38:00.005-04:00

The new entrance to our Westmaple Nursery took shape this week as the doors, windows and columns were installed. More exterior trim and detail will be added in the next few weeks around the windows and the entrance porch. Through the double doors you enter a heated vestibule, visible from the new director's office, and then proceed through the main Westmaple hallway and the five new and renovated classrooms.The sidewalk has been poured around the Westmaple entrance. Parking lot repairs will take place along with the work around the back of the gymnasium.

Town Square Roof Proceeding

2010-07-31T17:32:00.003-04:00

The trusses and roof boards have been installed over the new town square. Shingles will be added this coming week, and windows and doors will follow, allowing more interior work to be accomplished once the area is water proof.

Work Begins in Nursery

2010-07-31T17:14:00.005-04:00

Work has begun on the new nursery. The photo immediately below shows the door to the nursery off the new main entrance. A three sided counter with cubbies will separate the children from those arriving for drop-off and pick-up.

The next photo shows the new nursery itself. The floor is being raised to the same elevation as the town square. This will also have the added benefit of insulating children from the slab floor as was the case with the old nursery. The door to the far right in the photo below will lead to a smaller room for cribs and nursing mothers.The nursery will also have it's own bathroom accessible only from inside the nursery. Additional counters, cabinets and a sink will also be installed just outside the bathroom.

New Main Entrance

2010-07-31T17:04:00.004-04:00

Work is proceeding in and around the new main entrance. This entrance will include two large sets of glass double doors that may be reached by either steps or a ramp. The entrance way will lead to the town square. The nursery, women's bathroom and coat room will be immediately accessible. A ministry information monitor with event details will hang just inside the double doors.

Gym Nears Completion

2010-07-31T16:56:00.004-04:00

The renovated gymnasium and the new worship and performance stage is nearing completion. Work on the exterior is almost complete. Final brick work was completed this past week. Trim and caulk will be added this coming week. The side walk around the back has been poured ... repairs to the asphalt parking lot in back will be completed shortly.

Inside the gym the full complement of sixteen ceiling lights have now been hung, as have three large ceiling fans that will augment the new heating and cooling capability in the gym. Interior paint is nearly complete. The next two projects include installing fabric-covered acoustic panels and installing carpet on the new stage. The new floor will be poured after the camp reunion concert August 11.

Gymnasium Schedule Released

2010-07-22T23:47:00.006-04:00

The final occupancy schedule for the renovated gymnasium was released this week. Pending all appropriate inspections, the following timetable is in place for use of the renovated gymnasium and worship and performance stage:
.

A "soft opening", as it is referred to in the business, is planned for the week of August 8 to 15. Most of the gymnasium work will be completed by August 8 including a major cleanup. This will allow our returning campers to hold their annual youth concert and reunion in the new space, Wednesday, August 11. The days leading up to the concert will give the band and worship coordinators an opportunity to test all our new audio/visual/lighting systems. Then following the August 11th concert (which will be air conditioned for the first time in Redeemer's history!), a member wedding weekend will utilize the new facility, including a reception on Sunday, August 15.

On Monday, August 16, we return the space to Frank Rewold & Son to complete one very important element, the pouring of a new floor surface that will bring functional, aesthetic and acoustic benefit to the gym. The cure time for the new floor is such that we will all be required to stay out of the gym for a couple of weeks.

This will still allow the gym to be 100% complete by Labor Day, and most importantly, for our annual Homecoming festivities the following Sunday, September 12. While the long-range forecast for the 12th is sunny and 72 degrees, it is nice to know our new air conditioned gymnasium will be available just on the outside chance we are blessed with rain that Sunday.

From the photos you can see that the new exposed ceiling has been cleaned and sealed. Eight of the sixteen new lights have been installed. The stage surround and walls have been painted. Fabric-covered acoustic panels will be hung over the next 10 days. And carpet will be installed around the stage as a final step.

Roof on the Town Square

2010-07-22T23:38:00.008-04:00

Work is underway this week to place the new roof over the Town Square. With a water proof roof overhead even more work can take place inside the new main gathering area located between the Sanctuary and renovated Gymnasium. This work includes the inside wall framing, electrical and plumbing, and ceilings.

Stay tuned for more event information surrounding the Town Square at our annual homecoming activities on Sunday, September 12.

Genesis and Exodus

2010-07-22T23:27:00.006-04:00

In 2005, before the long-range facility Master Plan was even fully contemplated, there was a desire to renovate one of the main women's bathrooms located between the Gymnasium and Great Room. I guess you could say the ladies room renovation was the genesis of the Sacred Space project. This past week, just five years after the initial suggestion, work finally began on the renovated bathroom, specifically new tile and fixtures (see photo below.) I guess now we better have the money to put in new partitions too, or there is going to be a hasty exodus ...

Construction for Week of 7-19-10 and 7-26-10

2010-07-20T22:40:00.003-04:00

The full two week schedule for 7-19-10 thru 8-1-10 is as follows:

Gymnasium and Stage addition
· Complete stage Audio/Visual package
· Begin final cleaning for church events
· Begin final inspections

Town Square
· Continue rough mechanical plumbing and electrical
· Lower level metal stud framing
· Continue with roof framing
· Main floor wall framing
· Main floor ceiling mechanical, electrical
· Complete exterior brick

Interior infrastructure
· Continue with Fire suppression installation
· Continue with electrical relocation
· Install stairs at new south stairway
· Continue with new ceiling grid
· Continue with open ceiling inspections

West Maple
· Complete ceiling framing
· Complete window installation
· Begin finish operations
· paint, cabinets, lights
· Carpet existing classrooms
· Complete exterior concrete walks
· Begin asphalt repairs to parking lot

Music Wing
· Complete with metal stud framing
· Re-insulate roof system
· Complete air conditioning system
· Complete rough electrical and mechanical

Site improvements
· Complete electrical service East side of building
· Complete exterior walks
· Curbs at new parking lot
· Begin stone and base coat asphalt

Westmaple Work Expanded

2010-07-18T22:06:00.006-04:00

Thanks to a wonderful gift to Sacred Space by the Westmaple Nursery, work in the three existing classrooms has been expanded to include new paint, new carpet, and new ceilings. What a terrific investment for the benefit of all our pre-school children.

Work in the two new Westmaple rooms also continues on schedule. Although the children don't return until after Labor Day, the inspections must be complete in August to provide our new and existing teachers time to ready their rooms.
Brick work on the exterior is complete as the crews prepare to complete the trim work and new front entrance. Inside the two new classrooms the plumbing, electrical and fire suppression work is well underway. Ceiling grids are in the process of being installed.

Ice Skating Rink in Master Plan

2010-07-18T19:34:00.006-04:00

Two years before the current construction plans were completed, Redeemer embarked on a multi-year, multi-ministry master plan for our entire facility. That plan looked at long-term needs that go beyond the current work of our Sacred Space project.

The photographs below show preparations for a new second floor ice skating rink above the town square.
Okay, it's not an ice skating rink.

But we have planned for a second story addition above the new town square, including additional classrooms, bathrooms, coffee service and access to a new sanctuary balcony. To reduce the total cost of the master plan, and to eliminate the need to evacuate our newly built town square for several months, the architect and construction manager have placed the appropriate steel, concrete, rough plumbing and electrical conduit to allow for this future second floor expansion.

But ice skating does sound pretty nice on an 85 degree July day!

Site Improvements Continue

2010-07-18T19:16:00.003-04:00

Work on various site improvements continues around Redeemer.

Most of the new fire suppression system is in place, with just the placement of sprinkler heads awaiting the final lay-in ceiling tiles. The expanded electrical service (located on the east side of the chapel) is nearly ready for DTE to provide expanded service.

The new water service which will power the fire suppression system as well as the rest of Redeemer is now in place. Note the new fire hydrant which is maize colored, and not scarlet, as one pastor requested.
Work is proceeding on the new parking lot extension. All the underground work is complete and the area has been leveled, awaiting the addition of curbs, gravel and the final asphalt top coats. The sprinkling system has been disrupted at many points around the Redeemer grounds. Don't blame the garden club if some of the landscaping looks a little tired in the July heat. Rest assured that everything is being put back in its original condition.
Finally, a new sidewalk around the north side of the gymnasium is being readied for pour next week. The parking lot asphalt will be repaired as well to match the new contours along the north side of the building.

Town Square Brick and Concrete

2010-07-18T17:52:00.006-04:00

Work on the new main entrance and town square is proceeding both inside and out.

The exterior of the town square and main entrance is currently receiving the matching Redeemer red brick. All the new brick in this area, as well as the completed brick work around the gym stage and Westmaple classrooms, will be washed at the end of the project to provide a perfect match.

Inside the town square concrete was poured on the first floor matching the existing grade to the sanctuary corridor, with a ramp down to the library and gymnasium level.

Corridor (above) leading to the sanctuary (temporary construction wall)Ramp (above) leading down to the library and renovated gymnasium.

New town square (above) viewed from coat room corner.

Sermon Topic?

2010-07-05T16:24:00.002-04:00

It looks like not everything is on the straight and narrow at Redeemer ...

Westmaple Progressing Towards September Opening

2010-07-05T16:14:00.004-04:00

Block walls are being constructed inside the expanded Westmaple Nursery wing this week. Along with the steel and new roof you can begin to picture the two new classrooms and associated bathrooms. The photo below shows the new classroom on the west side of the Westmaple corridor. The door to the new bathroom, complete with junior-sized fixtures, is visible on the far left. The classroom on the west side of the Westmaple corridor is pictured below. The door on the far left (covered in plywood) has been cut through what was the end wall of Room 1. So now all four rooms on the west side of the corridor are connected. The door in the middle leads to the new bathroom. And the door to the right leads to the extended hallway. A new office for the Westmaple director is just visible on the far right.

New windows have been added, not just in the new rooms, but in the existing Room 1, to replace the windows on the north wall that have been covered by the classroom addition.

Town Square and Main Entrance

2010-07-05T15:23:00.005-04:00

Block walls were erected around the new main entrance this past week. Along with the steel beams that have been placed to support the entry canopy, you can almost begin to imagine the new look that will greet both members and visitors as they enter Redeemer from the west parking lot.

Below is the view of the new main entrance looking across the new town square from the courtyard windows. The main entrance, visible on the left, will have two sets of double doors. The door on the right leads down stairs.And this is the view immediately upon entering Redeemer, looking directly across to the courtyard which will be framed entirely in a series of new windows. A few steps will lead from the town square out to the courtyard.Below is the view across the town square towards the gym. A fireplace will be constructed between the two beams on the left hand side of the photo. A wide, gentle ramp leads down to the gym, replacing the narrow stairs that were across from the book nook. This view of the town square looks back to the east at the current library. The plywood covers the current library window. The outside of the library will receive a face lift to match the wood panel and trim throughout the town square. A small cafe and serving counter will be constructed on the left side of the photo, for serving coffee or supporting group registrations, like VBS, Confirmation or Sunday School.

OK, it isn't a lion's den. But the new stairwell to the lower level classrooms was installed this past week. Now the construction workers (and members) won't have to climb extension ladders to reach the lower level. The stairwell is brightly lit with a large west-facing window.

A completely new women's bathroom just inside the main entrance doors is being constructed. (This will complement the existing women's bathroom just outside the gym, which is being completely renovated.) The door on the far left of the photo, just in front of the women's bathroom, is the door to the new nursery.

Gym Readies for Paint

2010-07-05T15:06:00.007-04:00

Substantial work throughout the gymnasium has progressed to a point where painting will commence this week, starting in the rafters and working throughout the gym, stage and storage rooms.
Two projection screens, each nine feet across, have been mounted on either side of the stage above the new ceiling panels. A large truss capable of supporting stage lights has now been hung in front of the stage. And hundreds of feet of conduit and cable have been put in place to integrate the audio, visual and lighting capabilities throughout the room

Construction for Week of 7-5-10 and 7-12-10

2010-07-03T20:10:00.007-04:00

The full two week schedule for the weeks of 7-5-10 and 7-12-10:

Stage addition
· complete stage Audio/Visual package
· continue with painting operations
· install doors and hardware
· install light fixtures
Town Square
· complete steel erection
· continue rough mechanical, plumbing, electrical
· lower level metal stud framing
· pour 2nd floor concrete
· roof framing
· main floor wall framing
Interior infrastructure
· continue with Fire suppression installation · continue with electrical relocation
· continue with demo at New South stairway
· continue with new ceiling grid
West Maple Classrooms
· complete mechanical and electrical
· complete with new air condition systems
· complete fire suppression
· begin ceiling framing
· complete exterior brick
Music Wing
· complete with metal stud framing
· complete with Masonry infills
· prep for AC system
· rough electrical and mechanical
Site improvements
· complete electrical service East side of building
· begin prep for exterior walks
· curbs at new parking lot
· begin stage and Westmaple sidewalks

. lift steeple two inches to the south

Work Proceeds on Schedule

2010-06-28T17:56:00.011-04:00

Westmaple - Tremendous progress is visible in the Westmaple wing as two new classrooms are now entirely blocked, with poured concrete floors and steel beams.

The new teacher's work room has been roughed out and is ready for finish work.
Exterior brick and insulation is being added to the Westmaple walls, along with roof trim to match the existing classrooms.

Site Improvements - Work continues in the west parking lot as we expand our parking space between the sanctuary front doors and the new main entrance.

New sidewalks are being poured to facilitate safe passage to and from the parking lot. Crosswalks will be painted at the end of the project. Also, new accessibility ramps are being added at strategic locations around the parking lot.

Town Square - More block is being laid to form the exterior walls of the new main entrance and town square. A new lion's den ...

Gym and Worship Stage - Significant progress is being made in the renovated gymnasium as the sheet rock around the soffits and gables is complete. The necessary trusses to support speakers and lights have been hung as have two large projection screens on either side of the stage itself. The electrical work proceeds to enable both new lighting and audio/video, as well as three large fans. Painting will begin shortly.

Inspiration

2010-06-20T23:35:00.004-04:00

It was hard to get too excited when we were just looking down at a mud filled hole early in the project. But things are changing. Have you noticed? There seemed to be something uniquely inspirational as we saw the steel of Sacred Space rise skyward this past week. Maybe it was the strong beams soaring skyward that seem to promise a bright future. Or maybe it was just the juxtaposition of the new and the old. Or maybe its just as simple as a heavenward glance on a warm summer evening that creates inspiration. See what you think.

Town Square Steel in Place

2010-06-20T23:13:00.007-04:00

The steel beams for the new Town Square were erected this past week. The steel sits directly atop the new lower level classrooms. This steel not only provides the framework for the new Main Entrance and Town Square, but also provides for a second story addition that is part of our overall master plan vision. The correct steel, concrete and rough plumbing are all being installed now so that we have the option to add a second floor should the congregation agree in the future to proceed with other elements of the master plan.

Construction for Week of 6-21-10 and 6-28-10

2010-06-20T23:07:00.003-04:00

The two week schedule for 6-21-10 to 7-5-10

Stage addition
· complete stage lighting package
· complete drywall operations
· complete fire suppression
· continue with prep for painting
· continue with grid ceilings

Town Square
· complete steel erection
· continue mechanical plumbing and electrical
· Lower level metal stud framing
· Pour 1st floor concrete

Interior infrastructure
· Continue with Fire suppression installation
· Continue with electrical relocation
· Continue with demo at New South stairway
· Continue with new ceiling grid

West Maple
· complete block walls
· begin steel erection
· prep for concrete floor
· Complete mechanical air shaft
· Begin mechanical and electrical
· Continue with new air condition systems

Music Wing
· complete with metal stud framing
· complete with Masonry infills
· Prep for AC system
· Rough electrical and mechanical

Site improvements
· Complete electrical service East side of building
· complete parking lot site demolition
· complete parking retention system
· begin prep for exterior walks
· curbs at new parking lot

New Nursery Taking Shape

2010-06-20T23:01:00.003-04:00

Often lost in the discussion of the new Town Square is the fact that a new nursery will be added to the Town Square. The nursery will be immediately available to parents as they step just inside the new Main Entrance that leads into the Town Square.

The nursery will accommodate the youngest members of our church family, members and visitors alike, with a secure main play room, a crib room, parent drop-off area, and new nursery bathroom.

Lower Level Classrooms

2010-06-20T22:48:00.006-04:00

Two new classrooms that are nearly the size of the Great Room and Library combined, are now enclosed on the lower level. These classrooms will serve many different needs for children, youth and adults. The electrical work will begin shortly. Until then, without lights, you'll have to use a little imagination to envision your bible study group, confirmation class, VBS session, or Sunday School class meeting in this spacious new area.

New Westmaple Classrooms Underway

2010-06-20T22:42:00.006-04:00

Two new classrooms are being added to our Westmaple Nursery. The rooms will be available for this coming school year, beginning in September. The addition of two new rooms will put a big dent in the Westmaple "waiting list" that had unfortunately become all too common each year. The photos below show the block walls rising around the north side of the current Westmaple wing, both from the interior and exterior.

Slides from Annual Meeting Update

2010-06-13T22:55:00.003-04:00

Click on the triangular play button below to view the slides that were presented at the June 13, 2010 annual congregational meeting. The presentation is shared via a web site, slideshare.net. Any other presentations on slideshare.net using the keywords Sacred Space are not related to the capital stewardship and renovation project at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Birmingham, Michigan.

Sacred Space Update at 6-13-10 Annual Meeting

View more presentations from smscheidt.

Annual Meeting Provides Bird's Eye View

2010-06-08T15:59:00.004-04:00

This Sunday, June 13, at the annual congregational meeting, a Sacred Space project update will be provided. Get the complete bird's eye view of the project, including answers to questions such as: are we on schedule for opening? are we on budget? were we able to add the new gym ceiling work to the project plan? And more ... well, not too much more. Join us after the 10:30 a.m. service in the sanctuary.

Construction for Week of 6-7-10 and 6-14-10

2010-06-08T15:31:00.009-04:00

Work began this past week on the construction of two new classrooms for our Westmaple Nursery. The foundations were poured this week (see photo below.) The block walls will rise shortly. In the mean time demolition and mechanical work has begun to integrate the new classrooms with the existing Westmaple wing.

The exterior brick work around the new stage addition is nearly complete.

Work on the stage addition is increasingly shifting indoors as the interior block walls are complete and the stage platform is under construction.
Meanwhile in the lower level of the town square block walls are nearly complete around the two new classrooms, storage closets and stairwell.The full two week construction is as follows:

Stage Addition
· Complete Metal stud framing
· Complete exterior carpentry work
· Complete roofing
· Complete brick veneer
· Complete with interior electrical
· Complete with stage lighting package
· Complete stage floor framing
· Begin drywall operations

Town Square
· Complete basement block walls
· Begin steel erection

West Maple Classrooms
· Complete footings
· Begin block walls
· Complete mechanical air shaft
· Begin mechanical and electrical

Music Wing
· Begin layout and wall framing
· Masonry infills
· Under floor plumbing

Interior infrastructure
· Continue with Fire suppression installation
· Continue with electrical relocation
· Continue with demo at New South stairway
· Begin new ceiling grid

Site improvements
· Install electrical service East side of building
· Begin parking lot site demolition
· Complete gas main relocation
· Complete water main relocation

June Parking and Entry Update

2010-06-04T23:55:00.003-04:00

For the month of June, please make note of the following construction plans around Redeemer:

- NEW: Work on the new Westmaple Nursery classrooms will close the back Westmaple door throughout the month of June, both during the week and on Sunday mornings. You can still enter through the gym doors and walk through the Westmaple corridor. See photo below.
- Work inside the Music Wing will close the side music wing door throughout the month of June, both during the week and on Sunday mornings.

- The new gymnasium door off the West Parking Lot will continue to be open on Sunday mornings while work proceeds inside the gymnasium during the week.

- Access to the sanctuary is possible through the staff office hallway via the Chapel doors, through the church office hallway via the Office doors, through the gymnasium via the new northwest gymnasium doors and of course through the narthex via the church front doors.

- We continue with the specially marked parking spaces for those that require proximity to church doors. These are for anyone that requires their use.

Thanks for your patience and understanding.

Stage Construction Begins

2010-06-04T23:44:00.005-04:00

Work has begun in earnest inside the new stage addition. With the roof in place overhead, block walls are now being constructed that separate the stage itself from the adjacent floor level storage rooms and stage-level prop room. The large white beam that we all signed Easter weekend can be seen across the top of the stage opening.

New Classroom Floor

2010-06-04T23:08:00.010-04:00

The concrete floor was poured throughout the lower level of the new Town Square at the end of the week. The photos below show the two new lower level classrooms and coffee area, as well as the new stairwell and storage closets. Once the floor and walls are adequately cured and the water proofing is installed, lots of steel will follow to ready the area for the next level of construction -- the new Town Square.

Need a Shower?

2010-06-04T22:58:00.004-04:00

Work on the new city-mandated fire suppression system continues each day. You may have noticed the ceilings have been taken out of all the corridors. This is to allow the contractor to install the necessary "plumbing" to bring water sprinkling capability into the building. All the corridors on the first level, the new and renovated rooms on the first level and the entire lower level are being readied for the new system. In addition, the needed upgrades to our water main have been completed, from across Maple Road directly into our building. In the next two weeks the entire system will be connected and tested. Anyone need a shower? In the photo below you can see that a new ceiling grid has been put in place as we prepare to install the new ceiling at the end of the fire suppression work.

Redeemer Red Brick

2010-06-04T22:49:00.004-04:00

The traditional Redeemer red brick continues to go up around the back of the new stage addition as well as the white trim boards. When the mortar dries and the bricks are cleaned there will be a nice match with the existing building. The same supplier that helped us with the Columbarium addition was used for the Sacred Space project. The architect and construction manager reviewed specific brick shipments to the site, placed on the building, and in different lighting conditions to assure a great match.

New Roof on Gym

2010-06-04T22:39:00.005-04:00

New insulation and shingles were installed on the gymnasium this week, for both the existing gym roof and the new stage extensions (gable and shed roofs.) Four and one half inch nail-board insulation was added across the roof. This will assist in the winter and in the summer with our new gymnasium air conditioning. The shingles selected are a colonial pewter gray, which matches our existing color scheme. And the new shingles are a 'dimensional' architectural shingle which is not only more attractive, but also carries a longer warranty than our existing roof. In the photo below you can see the new shingles on the right and the old shingles on the left.

Worship and Performance Stage Enclosed

2010-05-29T19:15:00.012-04:00

The new worship and performance stage on the north wall of the gymnasium was enclosed this week. The roof trusses, roof boards, insulation and shingles were put in place which now allows work to proceed inside, regardless of the weather. This step removes schedule risk associated with rainy weather and gets us closer to opening the new gymnasium in time for the new fall confirmation program and midweek Redemption worship service.

Also this past week, the concrete floors were poured under the stage, in the adjacent storage rooms, and throughout the relocated maintenance rooms. This allows us to continue with interior electrical work and really get going on the stage lighting package. Over the next two weeks you will also see the actual stage floor framing take place over the newly poured concrete floor.

Town Square Foundations Proceed

2010-05-29T18:59:00.003-04:00

Work on the new Main Entrance and Town Square is proceeding on schedule. The footings and foundations are nearly complete. The final concrete pour will occur this week on the west wall visible in the photo below. The big CAT excavator sits just where the new main entrance and canopy will be. The next steps are to complete the under floor drainage system, begin building the basement block walls and then pour the basement floor.

From the view below you can see the rectangular outline of the new lower level classrooms that will sit directly beneath the new town square. When the center partition is opened, this room will be larger than the Great Room, have taller ceilings than the rest of the lower level, and be outfitted with audio/visual capability. Uses include Redeemer bible study, VBS, confirmation classes, Sunday School, community bible study and other community events.

Music Wing Renovation

2010-05-29T18:49:00.002-04:00

Work started this week on the renovation of the music wing. The current music practice room is being reconfigured for use as the nursery when the project is completed in November. This summer, the balance of the music wing is being renovated so that a new music practice room will be available when the choir returns this September. In addition to the new music practice room, the space will include a pair of new bathrooms. The photo below captures some of the initial demolition work around the area that was the robbing and hand bell rooms.