Shining Light Team Happenings
The Shining Light Team has been very busy over the months with big projects, little projects and often small changes that go unnoticed. We would like to give you an update on some of these improvements around the church.
Reception Office
Changes have been gradual, and if you haven’t stopped in lately, you need to see the elegance of the renovated office. New colors, carpet, seating, and reception desk are just a few of the many changes. We’ve updated the walls by removing wood paneling and adding contemporary colors. Take time to peruse our new artwork. The painting on the wall is an enlargement of an original painting of Broadway. The original was painted in 1942 and is hanging in the conference room. Mr. Randall lived right up the street from the church. The three rubbings on the south wall were created by our own Ann Loomis. We’ve achieved our goal of creating a more functional volunteer workspace, making comfortable space for conversation and developing a more inviting reception area.
Staff Break Room
The former pantry is now the staff break room. Stripped and polished floors add to the shine while a fresh coat of lemon yellow paint has brightened the room. Staff and visitors appreciate the fresh coffee brewed and Max can be seen enjoying lunch with Mom, Karen, on any given day.
Minister of Music Office
So many changes have taken place in the former “candle room, A new organist office established. Walls were repaired and a fresh coat of “chopsticks” paint applied. Chris’ floor was repaired and shined by our floor experts. We also replaced aging lights with updated, high efficiency T12 fluorescent fixtures. Phone and network cables were run, so Chris can be easily contacted!
Community Room
The 4,00 sq ft. Community Room is now always at the ready for church luncheons, Broadway Presents productions, fund raising or private events. Contact Cathy Pilarski for scheduling.
Loaves and Fishes: A visit to the old “Food Pantry” exemplifies Broadway’s efforts to name, bless, and connect folks. The room has evolved into a mosaic of gifts, talents, and creativity. Stop by and add your own dream and gifts to the wall and see what connections surface!
Wesley Room: Has been transformed into a comfortable “coffee house feel” allowing the space to host our contemporary Sunday service at 9:30, luncheons and meetings for up to 50 people and put on an occasional “open mic night.”
Safety Improvements
Fire Extinguishers: Thirteen new fire extinguishers have been located throughout the church. Remember, fire extinguishers are used for getting out of the building, not just fighting a fire. We have removed three fire extinguishers from service that do not meet current standards. As well, a certified inspector inspects our extinguishers annually.
Doors and locks: Non-functioning door locks, closers and handles have been repaired or replaced in several locations throughout the church. We are in the process of moving to a master key system – several doors have already been re-keyed.
Kitchen Exhaust Fire Suppression: Our fire suppression system for the kitchen has been upgraded to meet the UL300 designation.
Exit Signs: Twenty six (26) new exit signs have been installed throughout the building. Some are replacing outdated and malfunctioning units, others are in new locations. Please take a moment to look for exit signs when you are walking throughout the church.
Sanctuary Lighting: We are in the process of updating each chandelier and fixture bulb from traditional incandescent to the new industry standard CFL’s (Compact fluorescent lamps). A reduced electrical load, energy efficiency, money savings as well as a remarkable difference in lighting will be noticed.
Panic Bars: Several doors in our church were not equipped with proper exit devices in the event of a fire or emergency. New panic bars were installed on the east sanctuary doors, east community room doors, the parlor/chapel door, and on the north basement exit doors.
Exterior Locks: All exterior doors have been re-keyed to improve security.
29th St. Entrance: A new concrete top step welcomes you safely into our main entrance. The doors have been sanded, stained a richer brown and waterproofed to add curb appeal.
Wesley Room: Has been transformed to a comfortable “coffee house feel” allowing the space to host our contemporary Sunday service at 9:30 a.m., luncheons and meetings for up to 50 people as well as an occasional “open mic night.”
“Green” Improvements: Randy Ficklin, Environmental and Sustainability Coordinator
Cleaning Chemicals: Randy has replaced several of our non-green chemicals with new “Green Seal Certified” formulas including: Ultra Spray Cleaner, Daily Restroom Cleaner, Neutral Cleaner Plus and Glass Advantage. These products meet Green Seal’s environmental standard for industrial and institutional cleaners based on their reduced human and aquatic toxicity and reduced smog production potential.
Our ABITI Paper Recycle Bin: facilitated by Randy Ficklin, is emptied monthly. Cathy and Eric are also recycling plastic and aluminum from throughout the building, including the main kitchen.
Green Articles: Barb Griffith has called upon Randy to write articles for the bulletin and the Tower Chimes; he has admirably stepped up to this task.
Bulb Replacement: We continue to replace incandescent bulbs throughout the building with fluorescent when possible. In addition, we look for opportunities to replace older, less efficient fluorescent bulbs with more efficient fixtures and CFL bulbs.
A Big Thank You
These many beautifying changes and improvements would not be possible without the tremendous effort and dedication of the Shining Light Team members. Please take time to thank Randy and Eric.
We also would like to thank the many congregation members who have donated equipment, tools and ideas for these improvements.