Well it has been a long time since I have blogged on this site and felt I should pipe in some latest updates.
on October 30, 2010 on All Hallows eve we hosted a "first annual" (hopefully) costume party at The Lodge. Over 30+ attendees all clad in costumes ranging from The Flintstone Family, Gnomes, Convicts, witches, and a chilean miner came to celebrate and enjoy the eerily haunting lodge. The band, As Is, a local r&b band played their hearts out and I must say this auditorium is going to ROCK when we are officially open. The acoustics in this hall are Dy-No-Mite (as JJ would say). Wow, that was a deepcut reference? anybody remember him? But I digress...
As for the renovations, we have just filed our paperwork to create a 501c3 nonprofit entity as this seems the most logical and prudent way to organize this business. Through the 501c3 we can raise the necessary funds from federal, state and local sources to complete the extensive renovations needed. By latest estimate, our restoration budget is approx. $500k. This is a bare bones estimate, not including any salaries or labor costs (for lodge employees). The bulk of the work needed includes: addition of 8 restroom facilities on the first, second and third floors; complete rewiring and electrical power box upgrade/replacement; HVAC installation on all floors; balcony railing system including stair rails; exit and aisle lighting installation; kitchen rehab and upgrade; theatre seat purchases along with banquet table/chairs and other accoutrements; lighting and sound system purchase and installation; and on and on.
There are numerous other "little" items but these are the primary biggies.
I am awaiting my architect to come and survey the property and prepare architectural drawings of "as is" condition and then with the necessary upgrades and additions needed.
I blast out to those in the sound of my voice to spread the word if you know anyone who wants to sponsor any or all of the above restoration project, checks are highly welcome. We have launched a theatre seat purchase program where you can get involved for a very low cost ONLY $250. Purchasers will receive a plaque with their name on it hung on the chair and/or a Donor Wall in the theater. You will also receive preview purchase ability once we have show tickets go on sale and free tickets to the Gala Opening Night event and reception. This is a lifetime membership that you are purchasing as early benefactors. Subsequent offerings of sponsorship will be on an annual basis.
If anyone knows a corporation or individual that wants the "Naming Rights" of one of the theatres this is also an option. Do you want this theatre named after you, a loved one or a favorite company? Please call us to discuss.
Anyway the work continues and I promise to be more diligent with updates to come.
Drew
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
theatre seating YAY!
Okay so I won the bid on 500 theatre seats (good news)!!!!
Bad news (or possible bad news)
1) i have to drive to wilmington and unbolt them from their current location and haul them up. Thank goodness I have a good crew that will go with me.
2) this theatre has been closed up so the word is that they have "a little mold on the vinyl"....Now we will see what the true definiition of a "little mold" is?????? are they in fact usable with a bit of washing or are they totally destroyed......more news to follow on this.
However, seeing as I only paid $0.25 a piece for the seats and I can pick and choose which seats to unbolt I may get 200-300 good ones...???
Tuesday is trip day to Wilmington to pick them up.
Bad news (or possible bad news)
1) i have to drive to wilmington and unbolt them from their current location and haul them up. Thank goodness I have a good crew that will go with me.
2) this theatre has been closed up so the word is that they have "a little mold on the vinyl"....Now we will see what the true definiition of a "little mold" is?????? are they in fact usable with a bit of washing or are they totally destroyed......more news to follow on this.
However, seeing as I only paid $0.25 a piece for the seats and I can pick and choose which seats to unbolt I may get 200-300 good ones...???
Tuesday is trip day to Wilmington to pick them up.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Wow! Where have I been?
Okay so it has been some time since I last posted on this blog and I do apologize. Has been somewhat of a whirlwind. However, we had our "unofficially official" opening at THE LODGE on Friday night. We had a group of friends in town for the memorial day weekend (approx. 25 or so). So, we took advantage of that and had a black tie gala at The Lodge. We began with a special screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show then segued into a local R&B band "As Is" and danced all night. I must say the band was kicking and the sound quality in this room is suberb!! This will definitely be a "listening room". the band toned down the amps to the lowest possible setting and it was dynomite. Will post pics and iphone video for all to see.
Minus AC in the building was a bit on the hot side and only compounded by the extended dancing we were doing....in our tuxedos and evening gowns.
Also, had a great conversation with electricians from north raleigh who came up and are going to see, based on codes, how best to rewire the building. And whether or not they can integrate the existing fuse panels (the old system) but updating it with safety bars and precautions. God wiling this will work and we don't have to completely replace with new boxes..
More exciting news is that I am bidding now on 400+ theatre seats at 25 cents per. they are in a theatre in NC that is being demolished and they have to go. They have high backs and are vinyl on top and cloth material. There may also be other theatre equipment to be had including 35mm projectors and platters, theatre screens and curtains. I will go down there this week..if bid successful to procure my lot. I have to unbolt seating myself and transport but for 25 cents per seat am happy to do it. Will post pictures soon of the seating.
YOGA ROOM A SUCCESS!! We had 3 straight days of yoga classes run by Brenda in the new Yoga room at the Lodge. we had 12 yogis in the class day one and 10 the 2nd and 5 the 3rd. (the diminishing #s were due to folks leaving enfield and heading back north after the weekend not due to weak backs and post drunken revelry!)
Have an architect from Tulane Architecture school coming up in June to draw up plans "as is" and proposed in order to prepare renovation plans.
Also, our 501c3 application has begun to apply for nonprofit status. Any board member potential yall know of....
thanks
stay tuned
Drew
Minus AC in the building was a bit on the hot side and only compounded by the extended dancing we were doing....in our tuxedos and evening gowns.
Also, had a great conversation with electricians from north raleigh who came up and are going to see, based on codes, how best to rewire the building. And whether or not they can integrate the existing fuse panels (the old system) but updating it with safety bars and precautions. God wiling this will work and we don't have to completely replace with new boxes..
More exciting news is that I am bidding now on 400+ theatre seats at 25 cents per. they are in a theatre in NC that is being demolished and they have to go. They have high backs and are vinyl on top and cloth material. There may also be other theatre equipment to be had including 35mm projectors and platters, theatre screens and curtains. I will go down there this week..if bid successful to procure my lot. I have to unbolt seating myself and transport but for 25 cents per seat am happy to do it. Will post pictures soon of the seating.
YOGA ROOM A SUCCESS!! We had 3 straight days of yoga classes run by Brenda in the new Yoga room at the Lodge. we had 12 yogis in the class day one and 10 the 2nd and 5 the 3rd. (the diminishing #s were due to folks leaving enfield and heading back north after the weekend not due to weak backs and post drunken revelry!)
Have an architect from Tulane Architecture school coming up in June to draw up plans "as is" and proposed in order to prepare renovation plans.
Also, our 501c3 application has begun to apply for nonprofit status. Any board member potential yall know of....
thanks
stay tuned
Drew
Monday, March 29, 2010
Plaster! Plaster! Plaster!
Welcome back. It has been some time since I last posted as we have been travelling north to the metropolis of New York. We rest when we are in New York like taking a bike ride up the West St bike/jogging trail in NYC on a glorious saturday morning!
Well, we arrived back in Enfield NC several nights ago and, as naturally, we immediately began to work. Myra stayed by the house to get our 2nd floor bedrooms and bath in shape and ready for painting (alot of cleaning)!
I began to tackle the "Yoga/Dance Studio" room which has one far wall that has crumbling plaster and a ceiling with some crumbling plaster pieces. I used a grinder to cut out a square section of the two ceiling areas that needed replacing. With Harry's (the carpenter) help we hung two new sheets of sheetrock and attached them. I got out my handy dandy trowel and drywall plaster and started to work. When you see the pictures you will understand my craziness. Upon scrapping the "loose" plaster, chunks of the topcoat plaster just fell right off. Pretty much the entire top half of both walls (on either side of the chimney stack). Thus, I had to cake on drywall compound over the entire wall. plus, the ceilings. Harry told me about a product called STRUCTO-LITE (great name eh!) which is a heavy duty base coat plaster for filling in sizable cracks and holes in the wall. But of course, this product is not available anywhere close by and in fact noone around here ever heard of the stuff. I googled US gypsum company that makes it and found a distributor, C&K Supply in Greenville NC. After calling to insure they did have it I took a drive today of about an hour in the pouring rain! Biblical that is!
But alas I got the stuff and brought it back and will start this process tomorrow. Meanwhile I continued my drywall compounding throughout the lodge including the yoga room, banquet hall, hallways and even in the theatre balcony area. I was a man on a mission to plaster the world...okay just the lodge but after a while it felt like I was plastering the world.
But now pretty much all the cracks and gashes in walls are covered and walls should be ready for priming and painting. Still need to do more plastering (probably with Structo Lite on the north wall of the theatre balcony. There was a lot of moisture damage here and I may take the plaster walls down in the balcony and apply a moisture barrier to the brick and then mount sheetrock/plaster back on top.
Did also find some old historic archive info from the old Enfield Progress papers about the dedication and opening of the Masonic Lodge in 1925. Will probably post some of this stuff tomorrow or by the weekend.
Until then, Get Plastered!!!
Drew
March 29, 2010
Well, we arrived back in Enfield NC several nights ago and, as naturally, we immediately began to work. Myra stayed by the house to get our 2nd floor bedrooms and bath in shape and ready for painting (alot of cleaning)!
I began to tackle the "Yoga/Dance Studio" room which has one far wall that has crumbling plaster and a ceiling with some crumbling plaster pieces. I used a grinder to cut out a square section of the two ceiling areas that needed replacing. With Harry's (the carpenter) help we hung two new sheets of sheetrock and attached them. I got out my handy dandy trowel and drywall plaster and started to work. When you see the pictures you will understand my craziness. Upon scrapping the "loose" plaster, chunks of the topcoat plaster just fell right off. Pretty much the entire top half of both walls (on either side of the chimney stack). Thus, I had to cake on drywall compound over the entire wall. plus, the ceilings. Harry told me about a product called STRUCTO-LITE (great name eh!) which is a heavy duty base coat plaster for filling in sizable cracks and holes in the wall. But of course, this product is not available anywhere close by and in fact noone around here ever heard of the stuff. I googled US gypsum company that makes it and found a distributor, C&K Supply in Greenville NC. After calling to insure they did have it I took a drive today of about an hour in the pouring rain! Biblical that is!
But alas I got the stuff and brought it back and will start this process tomorrow. Meanwhile I continued my drywall compounding throughout the lodge including the yoga room, banquet hall, hallways and even in the theatre balcony area. I was a man on a mission to plaster the world...okay just the lodge but after a while it felt like I was plastering the world.
But now pretty much all the cracks and gashes in walls are covered and walls should be ready for priming and painting. Still need to do more plastering (probably with Structo Lite on the north wall of the theatre balcony. There was a lot of moisture damage here and I may take the plaster walls down in the balcony and apply a moisture barrier to the brick and then mount sheetrock/plaster back on top.
Did also find some old historic archive info from the old Enfield Progress papers about the dedication and opening of the Masonic Lodge in 1925. Will probably post some of this stuff tomorrow or by the weekend.
Until then, Get Plastered!!!
Drew
March 29, 2010
Sunday, March 7, 2010
3rd floor Bar & Hallway 90% done
another Myra Wirtz Fine Art masterpiece!
what a team!!
a princess and her chandeliersWell the 3rd floor "entryway" (the hallway and bar area) is now 90% complete. We still have to hang the chandeliers (wait til you see them below), install window treatments, add a bar (oh, and put in new refrigeration and electric for the bar).....but the repainting is complete!
The chandeliers were a GREAT find at the Spring Hope NC furniture auction last night. We had a great day trip to the Wilmington NC area and ate lunch along Front St (on the Cape Fear river) at ELIJAH's. This is a great spot. We had oysters elijah which are rockefeller ish with a hot crab dip on top. YUMMO!!! Then I had a soft shell crab sandwich which was rocking!! We then went to visit and pickup some of Myra's art being stored by Dana & Joy (Dana is our friend Dede's sister). We met their ADORABLE 5 year old boy named Spencer! and through him we found out everything we need to know about sharks! This kid has it down and knows them all! What a great (AND VERY SMART) kid! Looking forward to watching him grow as we are watching our own nieces and nephews grow and mature into amazing teenagers and adults.
Anyway back to the auction. ON the way back we stopped in at 7pm (we got there at 7:30 as it was a 2 hour ride back from Hampstead NC). We marked a couple items including a great bar with granite top (we couldn't get them to sell that for less than $300 and we were too cheap to spend 300 on it...but maybe next time..)
Great auction house although you have to weed through ALOT of "interesting" things including a reproduction of an antlered sconce????? very strange looking and there was an antlered chandelier that was particularly gaudy! (but and here is the funny thing....someone BOUGHT them!!)
So enjoy our pics as we pack up and head north back to NJ/NY to get some real work done. We shall be back sometime in April.
Andrew
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Continued painting
Well we spent Friday priming and painting the 3rd floor hallway (stairwell and entryway to the bar area). I typically do the "grunt" work of the primer and base coats as I have the strength to use the heavy industrial size roller on the long pole. Then once dry Myra follows me and does the creative faux coats to the walls. I say that I do the "unskilled" labor and Myra is the "skilled" labor! it is a great team though and we work together extremely well.
Found out more info which I will post as a pic. Larry Armstrong, the atty, came over with a Masonic chronology of their meeting notes and there was a picture of the lodge being built in 1925. In the picture are several folks in suit and tie in front of only one story of the lodge. It says the cornerstone was laid in 1924. So, I am narrowing down a history of the building and need to spend time at the Halifax Library and Hysterical Society to get more pictures and details. We have the wall of Masonic Grand Masters hanging in the conference room and there are approx. 20 or so missing. Relatives through the years have taken their fathers and grandfathers (and greats) pictures down to bring home. I am going to try to at least see if we can get copies so that we have a full set of all the Grand masters for this lodge to hang in our "Masonic Museum".
Found out more info which I will post as a pic. Larry Armstrong, the atty, came over with a Masonic chronology of their meeting notes and there was a picture of the lodge being built in 1925. In the picture are several folks in suit and tie in front of only one story of the lodge. It says the cornerstone was laid in 1924. So, I am narrowing down a history of the building and need to spend time at the Halifax Library and Hysterical Society to get more pictures and details. We have the wall of Masonic Grand Masters hanging in the conference room and there are approx. 20 or so missing. Relatives through the years have taken their fathers and grandfathers (and greats) pictures down to bring home. I am going to try to at least see if we can get copies so that we have a full set of all the Grand masters for this lodge to hang in our "Masonic Museum".
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Busy day today
Started off early with two gentlemen from the NC Historic Preservation office to tour the lodge and discuss establishing the building as a historic landmark. We walked through and discussed some of the features of the building and what may or may not have been original. In fact, I had of the opinion that the building was an Art Deco building. However, they seemed to think it was more of the Beaux Arts period. I"m not too sure what this period was so will have to google that.....hmm.
Interesting contacts from them about our house history and the lodge history and they will send some architectural plans and historical info via email and regular mail.
Next, was a contractor (GC) from Wilson NC who came by (Heather) to gain our business in conducting the complete rehab of the property. Again, we walked through and discussed ideas for historic paint samples, restroom facilities, lighting, hvac and other use adaptations. Should be interesting to get a proposal back from them (although the next step is for her to come back with her team to do an extensive analysis of the building to put forth a comprehensive building proposal.
got a quote back from jerry the architect in Raleigh with a $7k number to create arch drawings of the entire 22k sq foot facility. (Now is that a big facility?)
Finished off the day putting the base coat on the 3rd floor hallway (after having scrapped and spackled the last 2 days). Now the 3rd floor from the stairwell into the Bar area will be freshly painted and prettied up. Pictures to follow.
for dinner, we had been turned onto by two different sets of people, a restaurant in Rocky Mount called CUVEE. (love the name). The place is in a little strip mall and has approx. 15 -20 tables and probably does a decent lunch/takeout/catering business. Had a great wine selection including a "Curious Beagle" cabernet from Paso Robles. Was an outstanding bottle of wine with lots and lots of complexity and texture...oh is this a wine blog? no...no..just enjoying some of the finer things in life.
Anyway tired out and calling it a night. Up early to meet the elevator man to come fix the elevator (again). A problem with the CAM shaft (not sure what that is but hey?)
Drew
Interesting contacts from them about our house history and the lodge history and they will send some architectural plans and historical info via email and regular mail.
Next, was a contractor (GC) from Wilson NC who came by (Heather) to gain our business in conducting the complete rehab of the property. Again, we walked through and discussed ideas for historic paint samples, restroom facilities, lighting, hvac and other use adaptations. Should be interesting to get a proposal back from them (although the next step is for her to come back with her team to do an extensive analysis of the building to put forth a comprehensive building proposal.
got a quote back from jerry the architect in Raleigh with a $7k number to create arch drawings of the entire 22k sq foot facility. (Now is that a big facility?)
Finished off the day putting the base coat on the 3rd floor hallway (after having scrapped and spackled the last 2 days). Now the 3rd floor from the stairwell into the Bar area will be freshly painted and prettied up. Pictures to follow.
for dinner, we had been turned onto by two different sets of people, a restaurant in Rocky Mount called CUVEE. (love the name). The place is in a little strip mall and has approx. 15 -20 tables and probably does a decent lunch/takeout/catering business. Had a great wine selection including a "Curious Beagle" cabernet from Paso Robles. Was an outstanding bottle of wine with lots and lots of complexity and texture...oh is this a wine blog? no...no..just enjoying some of the finer things in life.
Anyway tired out and calling it a night. Up early to meet the elevator man to come fix the elevator (again). A problem with the CAM shaft (not sure what that is but hey?)
Drew
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Finished ANOTHER ROOM
Okay the "majestic bar" room (ie. name of room not determined but we are taking it from the "bar majestic" in Jersey City for now) is NOW FINISHED!! Well, a little gold tint to add to the curved ceiling but basically done.
My little Myra worked her tail off in about a week to get this room ready. See Facebook (lodge at roanoke valley) for pictures until I update here. Meanwhile I met with elevator man to get elevator working and Econ Dev and tourism board pres of halifax county to get grant monies and network with the Halifax development and tourism folks. There are monies available based on the # of jobs you create in a 2 year period. I plan on hiring at minimum 50 FTE per event (ie. security, parking detail, hosts, ushers, ticket takers, etc) and believe I can generate approx. $480k in annual salary paid to enfield/halifax county employees. I think this is a significant boost to the income generated for this little town. I am awaiting the grant application to be sent and will have to delve into it to apply for funds by May 1.
I also have a GC from Wilson NC coming out tomorrow and hope to get a thorough proposal from them to completely rehab and renovate the entire structure including complying with code and ADA issues. I want to get "green" estimates from at least 3 GCs to determine how green a renovation job I can get for this building. I would like 100% green and enviro friendly but I will see what the professionals tell me tomorrow and in days to come.
I am extremely tired and will keep this short but suffice to say was a great day at the lodge and a feeling of accomplishment with the Majestic bar room. Today we started on the 3rd floor hallway outside the bar area leading to the stairs and was covered in white plaster from the sanding and spackling that was done.
Drew
My little Myra worked her tail off in about a week to get this room ready. See Facebook (lodge at roanoke valley) for pictures until I update here. Meanwhile I met with elevator man to get elevator working and Econ Dev and tourism board pres of halifax county to get grant monies and network with the Halifax development and tourism folks. There are monies available based on the # of jobs you create in a 2 year period. I plan on hiring at minimum 50 FTE per event (ie. security, parking detail, hosts, ushers, ticket takers, etc) and believe I can generate approx. $480k in annual salary paid to enfield/halifax county employees. I think this is a significant boost to the income generated for this little town. I am awaiting the grant application to be sent and will have to delve into it to apply for funds by May 1.
I also have a GC from Wilson NC coming out tomorrow and hope to get a thorough proposal from them to completely rehab and renovate the entire structure including complying with code and ADA issues. I want to get "green" estimates from at least 3 GCs to determine how green a renovation job I can get for this building. I would like 100% green and enviro friendly but I will see what the professionals tell me tomorrow and in days to come.
I am extremely tired and will keep this short but suffice to say was a great day at the lodge and a feeling of accomplishment with the Majestic bar room. Today we started on the 3rd floor hallway outside the bar area leading to the stairs and was covered in white plaster from the sanding and spackling that was done.
Drew
Monday, March 1, 2010
First Problem...
Elevator was working fine (naturally) when the elev repair guy was here and it worked for over a week without a hitch. In fact, it was super fast getting up and down. Well, just yesterday it started acting up. It would bypass the 2nd floor and when it would arrive at its floor the inner door would only partially open. This is a problem as the door does not open enough to signal the exterior door that that car has arrived. As such, you can not open the exterior door. Kind of a problem. Fortunately, in the interim we have the elev. key and it can be opened this way.
Elevator man chris came by today and assessed and thinks has something to do with the CAM but he can not fix alone (of course) and needs two people. So, Dave & Chris coming back tomorrow (allegedly) to troubleshoot and test everything out. Okay, so how does the elevator inspector inspect and pass the elevator and it now does not work???? Hmmm....
Anyway, moving inside Myra is finishing the final coat of the 3rd floor "Majestic Bar" (not Bar Majestic for those of you who are familiar with that JC landmark. I will upload pics once the room is finalized. I think we have enough of the "work in progress" pics. this room REALLY is going to be VERY NICE. The color is perfect and very warm and inviting. That gal is pretty darn good!!
I myself was back in the dustbowl continuing to sort through Miscellany and am ready for my 3rd garbage truck to be sent over tomorrow for loading. Found a set of some very cool baby bottles made of glass...Obviously they are not new. Can you imagine baby bottles made of glass?? Must be circa 1950s when that's all they had. They have etches of animals on the side as well as a measuring stick. These will make brilliant Pimms Cup glasses for the summer!!! (not the original use but a much better one in my opinion.
Thats all for today. Back tomorrow
Drew
Elevator man chris came by today and assessed and thinks has something to do with the CAM but he can not fix alone (of course) and needs two people. So, Dave & Chris coming back tomorrow (allegedly) to troubleshoot and test everything out. Okay, so how does the elevator inspector inspect and pass the elevator and it now does not work???? Hmmm....
Anyway, moving inside Myra is finishing the final coat of the 3rd floor "Majestic Bar" (not Bar Majestic for those of you who are familiar with that JC landmark. I will upload pics once the room is finalized. I think we have enough of the "work in progress" pics. this room REALLY is going to be VERY NICE. The color is perfect and very warm and inviting. That gal is pretty darn good!!
I myself was back in the dustbowl continuing to sort through Miscellany and am ready for my 3rd garbage truck to be sent over tomorrow for loading. Found a set of some very cool baby bottles made of glass...Obviously they are not new. Can you imagine baby bottles made of glass?? Must be circa 1950s when that's all they had. They have etches of animals on the side as well as a measuring stick. These will make brilliant Pimms Cup glasses for the summer!!! (not the original use but a much better one in my opinion.
Thats all for today. Back tomorrow
Drew
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Masonic Visit
A young Mason from Raleigh/Cary NC had called up and wanted to come by and photograph the Lodge. He is an avid photographer and has gone around the country photographing Masonic lodges. He had come to the Enfield Lodge and photographed it prior to my purchase but there were no lights on and he never went inside the Main Theatre.
He did indicate that this Lodge has a very unique status, for many reasons, but as it is the only lodge in the area to confer 18th degree masons. Apparently, most lodges you have to go to a central/regional Lodge for these degree programs.
Together, we unrolled each of the theatre backdrops (there are approx. 20 total) that show various mediterranean/sudanese views which are used for various degree work in the Masonic rituals. Of course, we had a time as one of the backdrops had lost its rope (it had "come aloose" as my Granny Ginna would have said). My first venture on the extremely tall andold stage ladder to the top to run the cord through the pulleys. I tell you what, moving this ladder is no easy picnic. I will take a photo of the ladder and post later on so you can see this majestic ladder.
Trying to configure the ropes in the correct direction and proportion to get the canvas to roll up was more difficult than it looked. But alas, we did it and were able to view each and every canvas.
So, that was my day at The Lodge at Roanoke Valley.
Drew
He did indicate that this Lodge has a very unique status, for many reasons, but as it is the only lodge in the area to confer 18th degree masons. Apparently, most lodges you have to go to a central/regional Lodge for these degree programs.
Together, we unrolled each of the theatre backdrops (there are approx. 20 total) that show various mediterranean/sudanese views which are used for various degree work in the Masonic rituals. Of course, we had a time as one of the backdrops had lost its rope (it had "come aloose" as my Granny Ginna would have said). My first venture on the extremely tall andold stage ladder to the top to run the cord through the pulleys. I tell you what, moving this ladder is no easy picnic. I will take a photo of the ladder and post later on so you can see this majestic ladder.
Trying to configure the ropes in the correct direction and proportion to get the canvas to roll up was more difficult than it looked. But alas, we did it and were able to view each and every canvas.
So, that was my day at The Lodge at Roanoke Valley.
Drew
Architect's Report
Forgot to blog yesterday as I went into picture frenzy and loaded...as you can see... a TON of pictures from the cleanout and painting extravaganza!
Jerry Traub, a historic buildings architect, came out from Raleigh NC yesterday to look over the site and offer insight and put together a quote for drawings and sketches. We walked the entire property inside and out and came to the conclusion that I definitely need at least pre-design drawings of the property. I will need this for contractors, HVAC personnel, historic preservation purposes, etc. There is not much "construction" that needs to happen as the building is what it is. There are some construction items such as rebuilding the proscenium, staging, orchestra pit and a potential stairway to the balcony.
The architectural review was a little intense as he was discussing all the modern codes for ADA accessibility, elevator size, bathroom needs per person, sprinkler systems and a host of other ominous federal, state and local guidelines. I think we should be okay on many of these fronts but it was interesting to now get into the detail on code issues that ordinarily the average citizen does not even consider. So, perhaps a few more dollars into the budget.....
****SPECIAL GAME FOR BLOG FOLLOWERS*****
I think you have all seen some of the pictures of the Main Theatre and the 2 "mini balconies"? Can you look at the pics again of the main theatre and let me know what you would do with these balconies. (Note: Need a structural engineer to inspect and certify the structural integrity and/or add beam supports to reinforce integrity if needed. If structurally sound, then below options can be discussed):
A couple options are:
1) add additional balcony seating to these areas (assume adding staircase of course) which I believe would give at least 25-30 seats additional on each side.
2) just use balcony areas for lighting and audio technicians for respective shows. Lights & Audio typically have large boards to manage light/audio and this would keep them separated from the audience. (assumes stairway as well and ability to transport audio/electric eqpt up/down easily.
3) use balconies for private groups and/or lounge area (ie. VIP area pre and post show). Akin to football stadium "private boxes", we can put a plexi or glass enclosure (with window to open/shut to hear performances.
4) create additional restroom facilities on the balcony level. There are two single usage facility rooms off the lobby which may/may not be up to code for seating capacity of 400+. However, restrooms on balcony level would not be ADA accessible. (we may could reconfigure the downstairs facility to accommodate wheelchairs and make ADA accessible.
5) Cut back the balconies to just extend the width of the lobby (not to extend over the last 5-7 rows of orchestra seats. Underneath the balconies, the seating could be a bit claustrophobic. Cutting it back we could still either have restroom facilities, light/audio or private area (albeit much smaller).
6) Remove balconies entirely and only have projectionist booth above. This could open up the ceiling height in the lobby area at least in the entry way (although removing could be a major hassle and effort.
7) Extend and connect the two balconies in the middle to provide additional balcony seating. Now, we could have approx. total of 60 -70 balcony seats. This would give a total seating capacity of 500+.
Any ideas and suggestions would love to hear from you.
Drew
Jerry Traub, a historic buildings architect, came out from Raleigh NC yesterday to look over the site and offer insight and put together a quote for drawings and sketches. We walked the entire property inside and out and came to the conclusion that I definitely need at least pre-design drawings of the property. I will need this for contractors, HVAC personnel, historic preservation purposes, etc. There is not much "construction" that needs to happen as the building is what it is. There are some construction items such as rebuilding the proscenium, staging, orchestra pit and a potential stairway to the balcony.
The architectural review was a little intense as he was discussing all the modern codes for ADA accessibility, elevator size, bathroom needs per person, sprinkler systems and a host of other ominous federal, state and local guidelines. I think we should be okay on many of these fronts but it was interesting to now get into the detail on code issues that ordinarily the average citizen does not even consider. So, perhaps a few more dollars into the budget.....
****SPECIAL GAME FOR BLOG FOLLOWERS*****
I think you have all seen some of the pictures of the Main Theatre and the 2 "mini balconies"? Can you look at the pics again of the main theatre and let me know what you would do with these balconies. (Note: Need a structural engineer to inspect and certify the structural integrity and/or add beam supports to reinforce integrity if needed. If structurally sound, then below options can be discussed):
A couple options are:
1) add additional balcony seating to these areas (assume adding staircase of course) which I believe would give at least 25-30 seats additional on each side.
2) just use balcony areas for lighting and audio technicians for respective shows. Lights & Audio typically have large boards to manage light/audio and this would keep them separated from the audience. (assumes stairway as well and ability to transport audio/electric eqpt up/down easily.
3) use balconies for private groups and/or lounge area (ie. VIP area pre and post show). Akin to football stadium "private boxes", we can put a plexi or glass enclosure (with window to open/shut to hear performances.
4) create additional restroom facilities on the balcony level. There are two single usage facility rooms off the lobby which may/may not be up to code for seating capacity of 400+. However, restrooms on balcony level would not be ADA accessible. (we may could reconfigure the downstairs facility to accommodate wheelchairs and make ADA accessible.
5) Cut back the balconies to just extend the width of the lobby (not to extend over the last 5-7 rows of orchestra seats. Underneath the balconies, the seating could be a bit claustrophobic. Cutting it back we could still either have restroom facilities, light/audio or private area (albeit much smaller).
6) Remove balconies entirely and only have projectionist booth above. This could open up the ceiling height in the lobby area at least in the entry way (although removing could be a major hassle and effort.
7) Extend and connect the two balconies in the middle to provide additional balcony seating. Now, we could have approx. total of 60 -70 balcony seats. This would give a total seating capacity of 500+.
Any ideas and suggestions would love to hear from you.
Drew
Friday, February 26, 2010
More in Trash Central
anyone need furniture? 
Ashen from a day of sanding the ceiling..that's one HARD WORKING gal!!
A man and his truck...or is it a boy and a dream?
Help!!! I can't get out!!! Yikes!More Majestic Bar
Plaster Moulding!!! Oi Vay!
Keep on going darlin'
looking good? ain't this is only the base coatMajestic Bar
sheet rock master
proper preparation
faux queen
starry starry night skies
first step spackled, sanded, primed...
Pictures are Here!!!
I promised pictures so I am delivering pictures. I will first attach pictures of the Main Theatre auditorium (aka The Junk Drawer...Room). I found a ton of pretty cool looking "dust proof" file folders probably circa 1950s. Dust proof? Yeah right. If the company that makes these is still around perhaps I should send them one. I don't think they had this usage/storage in mind when they claimed "dust proof"!
The next set of pictures will be the 3rd floor room in front of the theatre auditorium. In Masonic days, this room was known as the Preparation Room. This is the room the Mason degree candidates would prepare for their degree certificates. In Drew & Myra tenure, this room will become the Majestic Bar & Lounge, for cocktails pre and post show. A much more festive use wouldn't you say? You will see Myra's talents at decorative painting and her painstaking efforts at plastering and painting. She worked hard for almost a week. I contributed minutely - I spackled the ceiling and the walls. I put up the piece of sheetrock on some pretty badly cracked and missing plaster. I also did some demon rolling of the primer on the walls.
Enjoy the pics.
Drew
The next set of pictures will be the 3rd floor room in front of the theatre auditorium. In Masonic days, this room was known as the Preparation Room. This is the room the Mason degree candidates would prepare for their degree certificates. In Drew & Myra tenure, this room will become the Majestic Bar & Lounge, for cocktails pre and post show. A much more festive use wouldn't you say? You will see Myra's talents at decorative painting and her painstaking efforts at plastering and painting. She worked hard for almost a week. I contributed minutely - I spackled the ceiling and the walls. I put up the piece of sheetrock on some pretty badly cracked and missing plaster. I also did some demon rolling of the primer on the walls.
Enjoy the pics.
Drew
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Creating Theatre Bar Magic
So Drew and I have been in more great bars than we can count and we have of course cronicled the high points in our brains. In creating this great moody space, we wanted to use the elements that make people "feel" a certain way.... special, serious, funny, and most of all intentional in bringing the historic nature of the building into the present. I think we are on to something and its looking awesome. We are on a tight learning curve with rebuilding plaster mouldings and walls. Lots of gypsum dust up the nose and in the lungs. Today, I came home looking like Casper the friendly ghost. I was working on the gorgeous cove ceiling in the bar and yesterday I had plastered the whole thing and today, it was time to sand....thus the sheetrock dust! Tomorrow my "demon with a paint roller" will prime the ceiling. Once dried, I will work out a beautiful sunset sky inside the cove and hopefully create a wonderful illusion of being in the clouds.
That's all for today folks. I'm relaxing with a glass of wine in my cozy parlor. Y'all come see us real soon, hear?
Myra
That's all for today folks. I'm relaxing with a glass of wine in my cozy parlor. Y'all come see us real soon, hear?
Myra
The Big Cleanout
Okay I promise I will upload pics soon as you have to see the 'excavation' project begun yesterday in the Big Main theatre. I tore through piles and piles and piles of junk and sorted out the "trash" junk from the "good" junk. I created more piles to get loaded onto the Enfield public works dump truck and hauled off to the dump.
All day long I pulled material out including: 2x4s, 4x4s, metal rods, sheet rock, furniture, old lights, old radios, boxes and boxes of Rives & Co. Hardware store receipts, invoices and bills boxed by year (1951, 52..59...66...79...ad infinitum!!) Oi!!! They were believers in saving receipts let me tell you. Mind you Rives & Co., was the hardware store next door to the Lodge (back in the day) but probably closed down in the early 1970s!! The lodge theatre was their warehouse where they stored EVERYTHING!!! Plus, I think the theatre became the dumping ground for anyone and everyone in town that had cleaned out their houses (or their parents houses) and decided to store stuff here. There were dishes...loads of old waffle irons...anyone want waffles? you name it we got it!
I'm sorting through and we may have a yard sale...everything $1 (or more)..and maybe we will make enough to buy 5 theatre seats...It's a start.
had Jeff & Ray my trusty local workers over today to help bring all the junk to the dump truck and in a couple hours got the thing loaded to capacity (and overloaded). Tomorrow the truck comes back for Round two.
By 5:30 I looked at myself and my jeans and clothes could walk by themselves. I was dusty, dirty and smelly. Went directly to the laundry room after getting home stripped down and jumped in the shower and showered Twice!
Now you will get Ms Myra's first blog report. Today she finished off some spackling and sealing of the plaster moulding in the 3rd floor lounge room. If you have seen pics it is the room outside the theatre that has the red rug in it. We will build and/or install a bar in here to make $$$ before and after shows selling drinks and what nots. But I will turn the blog over to Myra and she will post her adventures today!
All day long I pulled material out including: 2x4s, 4x4s, metal rods, sheet rock, furniture, old lights, old radios, boxes and boxes of Rives & Co. Hardware store receipts, invoices and bills boxed by year (1951, 52..59...66...79...ad infinitum!!) Oi!!! They were believers in saving receipts let me tell you. Mind you Rives & Co., was the hardware store next door to the Lodge (back in the day) but probably closed down in the early 1970s!! The lodge theatre was their warehouse where they stored EVERYTHING!!! Plus, I think the theatre became the dumping ground for anyone and everyone in town that had cleaned out their houses (or their parents houses) and decided to store stuff here. There were dishes...loads of old waffle irons...anyone want waffles? you name it we got it!
I'm sorting through and we may have a yard sale...everything $1 (or more)..and maybe we will make enough to buy 5 theatre seats...It's a start.
had Jeff & Ray my trusty local workers over today to help bring all the junk to the dump truck and in a couple hours got the thing loaded to capacity (and overloaded). Tomorrow the truck comes back for Round two.
By 5:30 I looked at myself and my jeans and clothes could walk by themselves. I was dusty, dirty and smelly. Went directly to the laundry room after getting home stripped down and jumped in the shower and showered Twice!
Now you will get Ms Myra's first blog report. Today she finished off some spackling and sealing of the plaster moulding in the 3rd floor lounge room. If you have seen pics it is the room outside the theatre that has the red rug in it. We will build and/or install a bar in here to make $$$ before and after shows selling drinks and what nots. But I will turn the blog over to Myra and she will post her adventures today!
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Picture Update
Just a quick note this morning that I will be posting a new series of "work in progress" pictures. However, I need to get a new upload cable as the one for my camera is "at the other house". This is always the case when you have the dilemma of two houses. Whatever you need at one is always at the other??? Go figure. Something about Murphy's Law.
So bear with us as I get my technical dept straightened out and you will see more pics of our progress. Stay tuned.
BTW- our elevator inspector from the state of NC is coming today so hopefully all goes well and he signs off on the inspection AOK....
So bear with us as I get my technical dept straightened out and you will see more pics of our progress. Stay tuned.
BTW- our elevator inspector from the state of NC is coming today so hopefully all goes well and he signs off on the inspection AOK....
Monday, February 22, 2010
Rainy Day in Enfield
Well, it started out with the sun and a nice 60+ degree F temperature outside but slowly the clouds rolled in and the rains starting coming down. However, not to worry we were inside the Lodge (still the icebox as it is quite chilly in there) just a painting a way. Today was the 'antechamber' room outside the upstairs theatre. Myra handcrafted the decaying plaster molding in the ceiling and I finished up the installed sheet rock wall. Although the spackle still has not dried yet, I may have gone to heavy on spackle. I thought I needed a little heavy spacle due to the way the wall was. We shall see tomorrow when we return.
I rolled on the base coat paint on the walls which is a muted red (mix of greys and browns). Very good color. Myra went behind me and 'fauxed' throughout the wall making indentations in the paint. After the base dries she will apply the 'faux' finish coat which will be a maroon red look (which should go with the current carpet that is already there. This room will have a fully functioning bar built to serve drinks and such to theatre patrons. This will be a GREAT room.
In addition to painting I walked down the street to the Enfield Library. They did not have much as all the microfilm and old documents had been sent to the Halifax Library which I will venture to next. Did find some good synopses of the histories of Enfield and Halifax County which will be nice information to post on our Lodge website to give the background of the town and area for interested patrons. I finished going through Mr. Davis' old Enfield Progress records from 1929 to 1939 and found some great copy of Theatre announcements, playbills, articles and such.
Here are some examples of previous Masonic Theatre/Enfield Theatre shows:
1) April 8 1938 --> On stage Borrah Minevitch presents his world famous Original Harmonica Rascals "in person". Matinee 15 cent and 30 cents; Night 25 cents and 40cents
On the screen -- "The Shadow" starring Charles Quigley and Rita Hayworth
2) March 25, 1938 --> On our stage "direct from a season's run at the World Theatre, NY, ENGLE's famous Marionette Show in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs"
3) Oct 25, 1928 --> Films showing - BEN HUR with Ramon Navarro, Betty Bronson;
THE WIND starring Lillian Gish and Lars Hanson.
4) Nov 28 ,1929 --> On stage Bud Fisher's latest sensation "Mutt & Jeff".
5) July 21, 1939 --> Film: "Young Mr. Lincoln" with Henry Fonda and Alice Brady
6) July 28, 1939 --> Film: "Susannah of the Mounties" with Shirley Temple and Randolph Scott
7) Feb 28, 1929 -->Film: John Barrymore in "the tempest". "a super production featuring white hot love, intense drama and high romance in its tremendous theme" (from the announcement)
all shows 10-25 cents.
8) Mar 14, 1929 --> Film: Douglas Fairbanks in "The Gaucho"
9) July 26, 1928 --> Film: George Sidney and Charlie Murray in "Life of Riley", for laughing purposes only.
Film: Colleen Moore in "Her Wild Act" Laughter and romance.
10) Oct 11, 1928 --> On stage: "Cupid-up-to-date" performed by local talent. Under auspices of the frank m parker chapter, united daughters of the confederacy.
So there is a random sampling of the films and stage shows performed at the masonic theater. We have some MIGHTY BIG shoes to fill!!!
I rolled on the base coat paint on the walls which is a muted red (mix of greys and browns). Very good color. Myra went behind me and 'fauxed' throughout the wall making indentations in the paint. After the base dries she will apply the 'faux' finish coat which will be a maroon red look (which should go with the current carpet that is already there. This room will have a fully functioning bar built to serve drinks and such to theatre patrons. This will be a GREAT room.
In addition to painting I walked down the street to the Enfield Library. They did not have much as all the microfilm and old documents had been sent to the Halifax Library which I will venture to next. Did find some good synopses of the histories of Enfield and Halifax County which will be nice information to post on our Lodge website to give the background of the town and area for interested patrons. I finished going through Mr. Davis' old Enfield Progress records from 1929 to 1939 and found some great copy of Theatre announcements, playbills, articles and such.
Here are some examples of previous Masonic Theatre/Enfield Theatre shows:
1) April 8 1938 --> On stage Borrah Minevitch presents his world famous Original Harmonica Rascals "in person". Matinee 15 cent and 30 cents; Night 25 cents and 40cents
On the screen -- "The Shadow" starring Charles Quigley and Rita Hayworth
2) March 25, 1938 --> On our stage "direct from a season's run at the World Theatre, NY, ENGLE's famous Marionette Show in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs"
3) Oct 25, 1928 --> Films showing - BEN HUR with Ramon Navarro, Betty Bronson;
THE WIND starring Lillian Gish and Lars Hanson.
4) Nov 28 ,1929 --> On stage Bud Fisher's latest sensation "Mutt & Jeff".
5) July 21, 1939 --> Film: "Young Mr. Lincoln" with Henry Fonda and Alice Brady
6) July 28, 1939 --> Film: "Susannah of the Mounties" with Shirley Temple and Randolph Scott
7) Feb 28, 1929 -->Film: John Barrymore in "the tempest". "a super production featuring white hot love, intense drama and high romance in its tremendous theme" (from the announcement)
all shows 10-25 cents.
8) Mar 14, 1929 --> Film: Douglas Fairbanks in "The Gaucho"
9) July 26, 1928 --> Film: George Sidney and Charlie Murray in "Life of Riley", for laughing purposes only.
Film: Colleen Moore in "Her Wild Act" Laughter and romance.
10) Oct 11, 1928 --> On stage: "Cupid-up-to-date" performed by local talent. Under auspices of the frank m parker chapter, united daughters of the confederacy.
So there is a random sampling of the films and stage shows performed at the masonic theater. We have some MIGHTY BIG shoes to fill!!!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
The Big Dig!
Well it's time to start the big cleanout of the main theatre. This large auditorium, which has not been used professionally since before the war...WW2 that is...has become the kitchen drawer for the entire town. Anyone that needed to store "stuff" just put it over here for many many years. As a result, it is just chock full of furniture, receipts, store shelves, and god knows what else. It is where we found the 10 foot wooden "library" tables that we now have in our house. to purchase these tables at a Restoration Hardware, forgeddaboudit!!
I now have halogen work lights inside the theatre wired from next door so we can actually see inside this theatre. I have not even attempted to try the electricity here until I have an electrician over to check everything out. The wiring is probably circa 1930s so there is no telling the condition of these wires and fuses etc. For now, it is an extension cord running fromthe main lodge building (which is attached of course).
Thus, I will be uploading pictures of the mess soon so stay tuned. I have started sorting through the layers upon layers and getting piles ready for my work crew on monday to load into the garbage truck. The town is providing a large dump truck to load garbage into and then they cart it away to the dump at the end of the day. We are going to need about 15-20 loads I am sure. (if not more)
I did find all sorts of building material which may come in handy for our renovations: piles of sheetrock, 2x4s, 4x4s and an assortment of lumber and materials. this should do nicely.
more to come.
Andrew
I now have halogen work lights inside the theatre wired from next door so we can actually see inside this theatre. I have not even attempted to try the electricity here until I have an electrician over to check everything out. The wiring is probably circa 1930s so there is no telling the condition of these wires and fuses etc. For now, it is an extension cord running fromthe main lodge building (which is attached of course).
Thus, I will be uploading pictures of the mess soon so stay tuned. I have started sorting through the layers upon layers and getting piles ready for my work crew on monday to load into the garbage truck. The town is providing a large dump truck to load garbage into and then they cart it away to the dump at the end of the day. We are going to need about 15-20 loads I am sure. (if not more)
I did find all sorts of building material which may come in handy for our renovations: piles of sheetrock, 2x4s, 4x4s and an assortment of lumber and materials. this should do nicely.
more to come.
Andrew
Friday, February 19, 2010
ClusterF##K
Okay so today was a little tiny setback and a lesson in "always check the system" before you leave the building! I had turned the water on (again) to test all the valves again. I had tested before and all seemed to work okay. Then we shut off the water and drained the pipes before leaving the last time (early january) due to the extreme cold weather that would come.
So, yesterday I turned the water on again yet did not go upstairs after turning the water on...BIG MISTAKE. I came back to the lodge today and in the kitchen and prep room was just flooded with water. The faucet had been left open from the last draining (note to self again on this one). Water had been gushing out all night and into the day...as we were hiking in Medoc Mtn State Park taking in the beauty of the day and a brisk 55/60 degree day.
Well I spent the next 2 hours mopping and shopvacing lots and lots of water. The good news is that it did not leak below into the conference room/office that we had just cleaned and painted. The bad news is it leaked into the main floor auditorium. (not such a big deal considering we have not done anything to renovate or fix up this auditorium. The walls and ceilings are still down to the lathing and we need to rip a lot of this out anyway to re electrify, insulate, plumb and install sound to this room. so, it is not a total clusterf**k just an idiot move and am kicking myself for not checking the plumbing after turning on the water. Lesson Learned!!
On to new stuff. We are getting a public works dump truck on monday so we can begin the cleanout of the mess that is in the main auditorium and start removing all the garbage and old belongings that are here. I hope I can post a video of the cleanup process so you can see the sheer magnitude of the furniture and fixtures that have accummulated in this area. My god! Packrats!
Until we meet again
Drew
So, yesterday I turned the water on again yet did not go upstairs after turning the water on...BIG MISTAKE. I came back to the lodge today and in the kitchen and prep room was just flooded with water. The faucet had been left open from the last draining (note to self again on this one). Water had been gushing out all night and into the day...as we were hiking in Medoc Mtn State Park taking in the beauty of the day and a brisk 55/60 degree day.
Well I spent the next 2 hours mopping and shopvacing lots and lots of water. The good news is that it did not leak below into the conference room/office that we had just cleaned and painted. The bad news is it leaked into the main floor auditorium. (not such a big deal considering we have not done anything to renovate or fix up this auditorium. The walls and ceilings are still down to the lathing and we need to rip a lot of this out anyway to re electrify, insulate, plumb and install sound to this room. so, it is not a total clusterf**k just an idiot move and am kicking myself for not checking the plumbing after turning on the water. Lesson Learned!!
On to new stuff. We are getting a public works dump truck on monday so we can begin the cleanout of the mess that is in the main auditorium and start removing all the garbage and old belongings that are here. I hope I can post a video of the cleanup process so you can see the sheer magnitude of the furniture and fixtures that have accummulated in this area. My god! Packrats!
Until we meet again
Drew
Press Coverage
I should take a few minutes and talk about our press coverage to date. For one, the response in and around the town has been terrific and highly motivating and encouraging. I developed a press release along with my wife and friend Suzann A. I released it to the local, regional and national press for publication.
The first response was in January 2010 with the publication of the press release in the Commonwealth Progress, a local weekly based in Scotland Neck NC. This was a full reprint of the PR by the paper.
The second response was the Daily Southerner in Tarboro NC. They also printed the PR in its entirety.
Just this week I sat down with Della, a reporter for the Roanoke Daily Herald (Roanoke Rapids, NC) to provide details on who we were and on our plans for The Lodge. We toured the facility together and introduced her to Myra. She expects a story later this week and perhaps a series of 4-6 stories over the next month or so. This is very exciting to get this kind of feedback and support from the community. I knew this was going to be a great project and really and truly a labor of love. My two passions being music and film and I get to create a space to fulfill both those passions and then some. And I get a blank canvas to create and program incredible artists and performers for a willing audience. How great is that?
More to come!
The first response was in January 2010 with the publication of the press release in the Commonwealth Progress, a local weekly based in Scotland Neck NC. This was a full reprint of the PR by the paper.
The second response was the Daily Southerner in Tarboro NC. They also printed the PR in its entirety.
Just this week I sat down with Della, a reporter for the Roanoke Daily Herald (Roanoke Rapids, NC) to provide details on who we were and on our plans for The Lodge. We toured the facility together and introduced her to Myra. She expects a story later this week and perhaps a series of 4-6 stories over the next month or so. This is very exciting to get this kind of feedback and support from the community. I knew this was going to be a great project and really and truly a labor of love. My two passions being music and film and I get to create a space to fulfill both those passions and then some. And I get a blank canvas to create and program incredible artists and performers for a willing audience. How great is that?
More to come!
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Elevator updates
Okay so we got a notice taped to our door from the state elevator inspector stating that since this elevator has not been inspected and/or serviced in over 5 years we had 60 days to get it tested and inspected or it would be CONDEMNED! Yikes. What this would mean is that we would have to pull out the entire elevator (this is an old Monarch lift from the 1930s mind you!)
We would then have to replace it with a modern code elevator. Can you even imagine the price we would pay for this? Well, the inspector was very pleasant and provided a list of names of elevator companies that were in the area and as far as Raleigh. I reached out to several and got Dave of Abell Elevators in Rocky Mount. Dave was Fantastic! He was out the very next day and took a look and thought it would be a pretty routine test and review. He then came with his technical person the following day and tested the elevator, lubed it up and fixed the "dohickey" mechanism that was preventing the exterior door from opening. There was a latch that was not firing properly to signal that the inner door was closed resulting in the exterior door not opening. This is kind of a huge problem for an elevator, you think?
Well, they got their minds together and within 2 or so hours they had all fixed and ready to go; and they ran the 1000 lb weight test which is required every 5 years. All systems go. Now, next week we have the state inspector put his seal of approval on it and we are certified for human cargo!
This elevator is one of the fastest elevators I have been on. The WTC in NYC was probably the fastest but for a 1930s era classic this takes it for sure. It stops with a bang but it gets you there!
We would then have to replace it with a modern code elevator. Can you even imagine the price we would pay for this? Well, the inspector was very pleasant and provided a list of names of elevator companies that were in the area and as far as Raleigh. I reached out to several and got Dave of Abell Elevators in Rocky Mount. Dave was Fantastic! He was out the very next day and took a look and thought it would be a pretty routine test and review. He then came with his technical person the following day and tested the elevator, lubed it up and fixed the "dohickey" mechanism that was preventing the exterior door from opening. There was a latch that was not firing properly to signal that the inner door was closed resulting in the exterior door not opening. This is kind of a huge problem for an elevator, you think?
Well, they got their minds together and within 2 or so hours they had all fixed and ready to go; and they ran the 1000 lb weight test which is required every 5 years. All systems go. Now, next week we have the state inspector put his seal of approval on it and we are certified for human cargo!
This elevator is one of the fastest elevators I have been on. The WTC in NYC was probably the fastest but for a 1930s era classic this takes it for sure. It stops with a bang but it gets you there!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Cold Times in the South
Just arrived yesterday back down in Enfield NC...beat a little more snow which should fall in a day or two back up north. although the temperature here in NC is pretty frigid...feels like NY/NJ weather.
Went inside the Lodge and it is like an icebox in there. Need to get the HVAC guys to adjust the gas blower fans so we can get some heat pumping. Myra and I walked through (hats & gloves on) and inspected the area to see how it fared the ice cold temps. It held up well and the only leaks are the 3 little ones that we had noticed before we left the last time. Appt with the roofer later this week to put the seal on these and get us air and element tight.
Received a notice on the door from the State elevator inspector who says that this old elevator which has not been serviced or inspected in over 5 years needs an inspection within 60 days. IF not done, the elevator is condemned and that would not be good. If this happens we have to replace the entire elevator with one coded by today's standard. Do NOT want that cost. I found a couple local elevator companies (in and around Rocky Mount/Raleigh) who are coming out tomorrow and the next day to assess and check out the Vator. Thank you!
Tonight is the night of the Enfield town council. On the docket is the approval of the sale of the enfield jail and enfield rescue squad to me. These properties are the adjacent properties to the lodge and I need to purchase them from the town to keep the property intact. Also, we plan on using these buildings as special VIP reception areas for pre and post show activities. Possibly, longer term we can have a cafe in here to serve lunch/dinners. So, off to my first council meeting! Should be fun....I am sure there will be subsequent posts on this.
Until then,
Went inside the Lodge and it is like an icebox in there. Need to get the HVAC guys to adjust the gas blower fans so we can get some heat pumping. Myra and I walked through (hats & gloves on) and inspected the area to see how it fared the ice cold temps. It held up well and the only leaks are the 3 little ones that we had noticed before we left the last time. Appt with the roofer later this week to put the seal on these and get us air and element tight.
Received a notice on the door from the State elevator inspector who says that this old elevator which has not been serviced or inspected in over 5 years needs an inspection within 60 days. IF not done, the elevator is condemned and that would not be good. If this happens we have to replace the entire elevator with one coded by today's standard. Do NOT want that cost. I found a couple local elevator companies (in and around Rocky Mount/Raleigh) who are coming out tomorrow and the next day to assess and check out the Vator. Thank you!
Tonight is the night of the Enfield town council. On the docket is the approval of the sale of the enfield jail and enfield rescue squad to me. These properties are the adjacent properties to the lodge and I need to purchase them from the town to keep the property intact. Also, we plan on using these buildings as special VIP reception areas for pre and post show activities. Possibly, longer term we can have a cafe in here to serve lunch/dinners. So, off to my first council meeting! Should be fun....I am sure there will be subsequent posts on this.
Until then,
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Snow Day in Enfield?
this is something you don't hear every day! Show closed due to snowstorm? sounds like we are in New England or upstate ny? Today is Jan 30, 2010 and there is over 6" of snow on the ground in enfield (and still coming down). The world has certainly tipped upside down.
Myra & I were working 2 weeks ago in the Lodge with minimal heat (and before the heat was cranked on) and it was frigid inside there. I can only imagine today how bitter cold it must be inside the theatre today!!!
will have to postpone renovation efforts until the snow thaws!
Pictures of enfield to follow
Myra & I were working 2 weeks ago in the Lodge with minimal heat (and before the heat was cranked on) and it was frigid inside there. I can only imagine today how bitter cold it must be inside the theatre today!!!
will have to postpone renovation efforts until the snow thaws!
Pictures of enfield to follow
Friday, January 29, 2010
Introduction and The Beginning Enfield NC
It all started in the quiet, serene setting of downtown Enfield North Carolina. I had been coming down to this great little getaway for years with friends who had purchased an old victorian home on several acres. My friends, Suzann & Wayne A, purchased this property to transform it into a historic B&B (the Bellamy Manor B&B) to cater to north/south and south/north I95 drivers that were not the Quality Inn/Holiday Inn set. Well we started coming down for long weekends and gone kayaking in Fishing Creek and the Roanoke River, we hiked in the Great Dismal Swamp deep deep into the swamp (after quite a dry spell) and have read Henry David Thoreau while in the midst of the swamp. We have enjoyed many different folks at parties and events such as a 1927 murder mystery dinner held at the B&B among approx. 40 participants--and alas the murder was solved!
I (Drew) met my wife at The New Orleans Jazzfest in 2006 (and that is the subject of an entirely different blog). Her first trip north (I have been living outside of NYC in Jersey City NJ) we met in Enfield NC during one of our weekend trips. My wife, Myra, and I subsequently found a beautiful old victorian home as we ambled through the little town and absolutely fell in love with it. (I will post pictures as I figure this out) This house was built in 1872 by James Harvey Parker, the sheriff who purchased the land from then Gov Branch who had his house facing the opposite street. There is an old story that our two magnolia trees were carted up from Floriday via stage coach in 1850 by the Governor's wife. And all the magnolia trees in the town of Enfield were seedlings from our two trees. But I digress. We proceeded to renovate and remodel this house and have it now in a great condition that we can live in it. Well, the two of us not being content with nothing to do looked around town for some new project...
And there it was, The Enfield Masonic Lodge and Theatre. This beautiful and majestic building that was built circa 1921 in art deco style laid dormant and boarded up to the world probably for the last 5+ years. The Masons had held their meetings and degree programs in the theatre inside but due to an aging and fixed income membership could not support the monthly maintenance on the building. Well, the first time we took a walkthrough with the help of a prestigious local attorney, Larry A, we were hooked. We had to have this building.
The building includes two large theatres; one, on the ground level that has seating capacity of approx. 500 and the other , on the 3rd floor has seating capacity for 350. In addition, on the 2nd floor is a large banquet hall and commercial kitchen with a mighty vulcan oven/stove. There is also a smaller room on the 2nd which we refer to as the "yoga room" in which we hope to have yoga and dance classes held here.
The main theatre on the ground level is in a bit of a mess. It has not been professionally used as a movie theatre since before WW2! Since then, it has taken on the role of storage facility to anyone in town who had "stuff" and needed a place for it. So, y'all are welcome to come on down rifle through and pick out any number of old sofas, popcorn machines, antique clocks, chairs and other assorted relics of a bygone era.
The 3rd floor theatre where the Masonic degree ceremonies were performed is in impeccable shape (although needs a good cleaning, scraping, and painting). Neither theatre has any seating so arranging to purchase almost 1000 seats for both theatres will not be a cheap endeavor.
We purchased the property at the end of December 2009. To date, we have arranged to turn the "current" on, fire up the gas blowers and check the plumbing. All seems to work reasonably well although newer and more efficient HVAC needs will have to be reviewed.
One issue is that since this was a Masonic Club all its former years and Masonic Lodges were all male there are only Men's facilities on each level. And the facilities are probably circa 1950 style with no dividers between stalls. For my lady friends do not fret, I plan on updating the facilities and adding a 2nd female facility on each level. And for those discriminating men, I will be updating and accessorizing the men's facility as well.
I am very fortunate to have my wife Myra for many many reasons but for this is her skill as a professional artist and faux finish designer and painter. She is miraculous with the textures and coverings she can prepare and this facility will be her masterpiece. She has already been on scaffolding to faux paint the main entry way and stairwell to showcase the possibilities for anyone who enters during our initial renovation phases. She created marquis sign boards for the exterior boarded up windows to advertise to the town our future plans for the facility which include: Live Theatre, Live music, Films, yoga and exercise, art & cultural classes, catering hall, dinnner theatre and pretty much a multi purpose entertainment & rental venue.
There is nothing like this in the entire region and we believe it will be a strong asset to the community and one that can be used by many different people within and around the town.
If anyone wants to help in our renovation project please come for a visit. Once you discover Enfield, you will be hooked as we were. It is a wonderful little town with ALOT of heart and soul. It looks like a million little towns that got all boarded up over the years but this town is very special and will be again soon.
I hope you will follow our progress and my updates as we continue to renovate this magnificent building and begin to showcase great and rising talent. If you are an artist or performer and want an incredible space to perform or practice we want to talk with you.
Drew
Jan 29, 2010
I (Drew) met my wife at The New Orleans Jazzfest in 2006 (and that is the subject of an entirely different blog). Her first trip north (I have been living outside of NYC in Jersey City NJ) we met in Enfield NC during one of our weekend trips. My wife, Myra, and I subsequently found a beautiful old victorian home as we ambled through the little town and absolutely fell in love with it. (I will post pictures as I figure this out) This house was built in 1872 by James Harvey Parker, the sheriff who purchased the land from then Gov Branch who had his house facing the opposite street. There is an old story that our two magnolia trees were carted up from Floriday via stage coach in 1850 by the Governor's wife. And all the magnolia trees in the town of Enfield were seedlings from our two trees. But I digress. We proceeded to renovate and remodel this house and have it now in a great condition that we can live in it. Well, the two of us not being content with nothing to do looked around town for some new project...
And there it was, The Enfield Masonic Lodge and Theatre. This beautiful and majestic building that was built circa 1921 in art deco style laid dormant and boarded up to the world probably for the last 5+ years. The Masons had held their meetings and degree programs in the theatre inside but due to an aging and fixed income membership could not support the monthly maintenance on the building. Well, the first time we took a walkthrough with the help of a prestigious local attorney, Larry A, we were hooked. We had to have this building.
The building includes two large theatres; one, on the ground level that has seating capacity of approx. 500 and the other , on the 3rd floor has seating capacity for 350. In addition, on the 2nd floor is a large banquet hall and commercial kitchen with a mighty vulcan oven/stove. There is also a smaller room on the 2nd which we refer to as the "yoga room" in which we hope to have yoga and dance classes held here.
The main theatre on the ground level is in a bit of a mess. It has not been professionally used as a movie theatre since before WW2! Since then, it has taken on the role of storage facility to anyone in town who had "stuff" and needed a place for it. So, y'all are welcome to come on down rifle through and pick out any number of old sofas, popcorn machines, antique clocks, chairs and other assorted relics of a bygone era.
The 3rd floor theatre where the Masonic degree ceremonies were performed is in impeccable shape (although needs a good cleaning, scraping, and painting). Neither theatre has any seating so arranging to purchase almost 1000 seats for both theatres will not be a cheap endeavor.
We purchased the property at the end of December 2009. To date, we have arranged to turn the "current" on, fire up the gas blowers and check the plumbing. All seems to work reasonably well although newer and more efficient HVAC needs will have to be reviewed.
One issue is that since this was a Masonic Club all its former years and Masonic Lodges were all male there are only Men's facilities on each level. And the facilities are probably circa 1950 style with no dividers between stalls. For my lady friends do not fret, I plan on updating the facilities and adding a 2nd female facility on each level. And for those discriminating men, I will be updating and accessorizing the men's facility as well.
I am very fortunate to have my wife Myra for many many reasons but for this is her skill as a professional artist and faux finish designer and painter. She is miraculous with the textures and coverings she can prepare and this facility will be her masterpiece. She has already been on scaffolding to faux paint the main entry way and stairwell to showcase the possibilities for anyone who enters during our initial renovation phases. She created marquis sign boards for the exterior boarded up windows to advertise to the town our future plans for the facility which include: Live Theatre, Live music, Films, yoga and exercise, art & cultural classes, catering hall, dinnner theatre and pretty much a multi purpose entertainment & rental venue.
There is nothing like this in the entire region and we believe it will be a strong asset to the community and one that can be used by many different people within and around the town.
If anyone wants to help in our renovation project please come for a visit. Once you discover Enfield, you will be hooked as we were. It is a wonderful little town with ALOT of heart and soul. It looks like a million little towns that got all boarded up over the years but this town is very special and will be again soon.
I hope you will follow our progress and my updates as we continue to renovate this magnificent building and begin to showcase great and rising talent. If you are an artist or performer and want an incredible space to perform or practice we want to talk with you.
Drew
Jan 29, 2010
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