Thanks To a Terrific Work Party
May 18, 2011
RE: Venue Committee
Thanks to a terrific work party on Saturday, May 14, we accomplished many of our construction goals for the year.
A lot of volunteers were present, including: Kyrie Jardin, Ed Rundle, Breathe Frue, Mike Real, Jim Johnson, David Betts,
Wayne Mendro, Sandy Mackie, and Michael Brady.
During our day of labor we completed the following projects:
DONE -- Install 400sq. feet of 2x6 T&G decking in back corners of seating area (these were previously dirt-floor).
The new decking raises the level of seats in the back corners of the theater by two steps. It also brightens and "cleans up" these dark old corners.
DONE -- Cover open studs in back walls with 250sq. feet of 2x6 T&G. This fixes the "unfinished" look at the back of the theater with a handsome, barn-like appearance.
DONE -- Address hayloft floor squeaks using screws, glue, and paint If the floor doesn't squeak, we can safely allow photographers and videographers in the balcony.
DONE -- Build platform at back door at the same level as inside flooring. Addresses a safety issue about the "step-down" coming out of the back door.
In preparation for this work day, construction contractor Ed Rundle had already prepared the foundations and framing for the decking, added Victorian columns and framing for a porch roof for the Ice House, and built a lattice frame to hide the irrigation control pipes behind the barn.
On the following Tuesday, Mike Real and I met with Ed Rundle to finish installing the metal roofing on the Ice House, add a second coat of paint to the balcony floor, and bury a RR Tie for holding open the barn door at the SE corner of the theater. The Ice House columns are finished in a Victorian style. Over the next few weeks, Robert and I will work to paint some cute Victorian trim.
All projects materials and labor were donated at no cost to the festival.
We wrapped up the work party with a happy-hour celebration at which many of the wives and supporters dropped by to meet our guest of honor, new valley resident Sandy Mackie, whom we welcome to our merry crew.
There are, as always, some things left to do, but I won't list them here. Now is the time to simply say "Thank you" to everyone who helped improve the performance venue.
At home on the range,
Howie Johnson
