The following is taken from the church bulletin entitled Dedication: May 17, 1987, St. John's United Church of Christ.

Facts About the Renovation of 1986-1987

The entire area was carpeted and air conditioned at a total cost of $371,456.43.

Architect: William Olinger, Mansfield, Ohio.

Renovation/Kitchen Committee:

Church Council Members:

           *Denotes Chair

St. John's United Church of Christ
Summary of Renovation - Kitchen Committee
May 27, 1985 - May 17, 1987

By Dotty Nikolaus, Chairperson

The first meeting was held by a group of members who were interested in the improvement of the Kitchen and the Parish Hall. Those persons were: Marilyn Minich, Al Kalstein, Naomi Russell, Dotty Nikolaus, Rosa and Thelbert Nikolaus, Dick and Mabel Welch, and Dean Hahn. We discussed the possibility of purchasing new equipment and getting new wiring and new plumbing. This, we felt, was much needed for when we had any social gatherings which involved the Kitchen, we were always blowing fuses, we did not have adequate hot water, the sink was too small to accommodate the dishes which had to be cleaned and the stoves were inadequate to keep food warm. These were the main items we felt needed improvement.

After discussions, we felt there was a definite problem and the above persons agreed to work on ways to improve the situation. The motion was made by Dick Welch that Dean Hahn and Dotty Nikolaus meet with Skelton's, Inc. and All State Equipment Company. These proposals should include ideas on improving the Kitchen area plus the installation of new equipment and the total package price.

On June 12, 1985, Dean Hahn and Dotty Nikolaus met with Skelton's, Inc. We went over the package we had and after some discussions, they agreed to put a package proposal together with us. They were to call when this was completed and we would then meet with the rest of the Committee.

On July 30, 1985, the committee met with Skelton's, Inc. with all persons present. The pieces of equipment were discussed, Skelton's gave us specifications on all, and the total package would have cost $16,528.

Afterwards, the Committee discussed the need for new wiring to accommodate the new stove, refrigerator and the plumbing was not efficient for the dishwasher. All States Equipment was to meet with Dean Hahn and Dotty Nikolaus on August 3rd and a proposal package would be obtained from them also. Then we were to decide what to do with the wiring and plumbing problems.

Dean Hahn and Dotty Nikolaus met with All States Equipment Company. They also expressed the opinion that we would need new wiring and plumbing in order to handle the new range and a dishwasher. They were scheduled to meet with the Committee on August 14, 1985 with their proposals.

On August 14, 1985, we met with All States Equipment Company. All members were present. They offer different brand names and the costs were lower - $11,430. After discussing the proposal that All States Equipment Company had left with us, we discussed the possibility of funding such a project and whether it would be worthwhile to pursue further. It was unanimous that we go on with this project and it was suggested that Dean Hahn and Dotty Nikolaus meet with the Deacons at their August meeting for the possibility of a fund drive.

On August 16, 1985, Dotty Nikolaus and Dean Hahn met with the Deacons. Those Deacons present were: Gil Searfos, Doug DeBaltzo, and Clare Applegate.

Copies of the proposals from Skelton's and All States Equipment Company were handed out, along with a summary of the things which needed improvement in the Kitchen. It was asked by the Deacons how much would the new Kitchen be used. Our answer to that question was social functions of all sorts; i.e., covered dish dinners, weddings, youth functions such as "Soup Day" and others, Mother-Daughter Banquet, and the possibility of a Fellowship of Men would be able to get organized again, have pancake dinners, and also funeral dinners would be able to be held once again, just to name a few times we felt it would be used.

The Deacons unanimously agreed to back the project but agreed with us that it should be a fund drive. This would hopefully serve the purpose of the congregation getting back together for we would have something to work toward. It was agreed that we ho to Church Council at the August meeting.

The Committee met after worship service on August 18, 1985 and after some discussion, we felt the project would be too large for us to handle by doing the work ourselves even with the help of the Trustees. Dean Hahn and Dick Welch agreed to talk to Bill Olinger who has his own construction business and is a member of our church to see what his feelings about the project would be. They talked with Bill that day.

Bill Olinger agreed to look the situation over and get back with us. We decided to put on hold going to Church Council until we were able to talk further with Bill.

On August 21, 1985, Bill Olinger met with the Committee after he carefully studied the situation. He came up with the following recommendations:

1. Complete wiring throughout.
2. Complete plumbing throughout.
3. New range, refrigerator, dishwasher and double sink.
4. Replace the windows in the Kitchen.
5. Bring the Kitchen up to state code and health department code.
6. He will do preliminary drawings.
7. Since he is in business with a partner, he will have to charge $35.00 per hour.

After many discussions were held, Dick Welch made the motion we go to the September Church Council meeting and suggest to Church Council we employ Bill Olinger to draw up a complete package on the remodeling and pay up to $900 for the preliminary drawings. We also discussed the possibility of Bill drawing up the plans to include the installation of an elevator which we feel is much needed and add this to our project. Ann Kalstein seconded the motion; motion carried.

The project was brought before Church Council on September 9, 1985. Proposals from Skelton's and All States Equipment were passed out, plus the recommendation of the Committee that we pay Bill Olinger up to $900 to do preliminary drawings. We discussed the full use of the Kitchen after it would be remodeled, and the use of the elevator. Church Council voted unanimously and made the motion we form a committee consisting of the persons who had met previously and that we pay up to $900 for the drawings, and that we announce to the Congregation on Sunday, September 15, 1985 what we proposed to do. Dotty Nikolaus was named Chairperson of this committee and she made the announcement during worship service on September 15, 1985.

On October 20, 1985, the Kitchen Committee met after Worship Service and it was agreed that we put on hold any further work on the kitchen and elevator until we called and installed a new minister.

February 8, 1986, Rev. Marcus S. Buehrer, our new minister, held a workshop day. Out of this workshop, the two most important tasks we felt needed to be undertaken were the Kitchen and Parish Hall renovation and the installation of an elevator for those who cannot climb the steps into the Sanctuary.

We agreed to go to Church Council with the motion that those who first started the Kitchen Improvement Committee would still make up the committee and we would also look into the possibility of an elevator. This committee would be known as the Renovation - Kitchen Committee, with Dotty Nikolaus as Chairperson. She was to contact Bill Olinger and have him proceed with the preliminary drawings.

At their April 14, 1986 meeting, Church Council discussed the future projects (3-5 year plan). These items were: Kitchen, elevator, van carpet in downstairs classrooms and a copy machine for the Office. Clare Applegate moved we redo the Kitchen first and have it completed by November, 1986, with supporting needs. The motion was seconded by Steve Kunz. Marilyn Minich amended the motion to use the memorial certificates of deposit for the kitchen expense. Dean Hahn seconded the motion; motion carried. This was all dependent on the cost of the project when Bill Olinger completed the drawings.

On May 8, 1986, the Renovation - Kitchen Committee an Rev. Buehrer met with Bill Olinger. The preliminary drawings were presented and we discussed additions and deletions. One addition was air conditioning for the Parish Hall and Kitchen. Bill Olinger made extensive drawings and incorporated a number of items. His drawings and suggestions were a complete kitchen (the present one to be gutted with the addition of new wiring, plumbing, cabinets, sinks, windows, floor, and etc.), redo Parish Hall with carpeting, chandeliers, wallboard with chair rail, new doors by the double entrance on Franklin Street, a worship area at on end of the hall by Franklin Street with concealed storage are for tables and chairs beside it, then enclosure of the space between the Parish Hall and the Church building by making this area a new lounge with restrooms which are accessible by the handicapped, ramps and an elevator which would be installed beside the stairway going down to the Church School rooms and up to the Kitchen. The new lounge, existing lounge, new stairway to the Sanctuary off the lounge, all to be carpeted. He also suggested new windows in the classrooms downstairs and that they be painted and carpeted. The total renovation would be accessible for the disabled and handicapped. These were just the preliminary drawings. The motion was made by Ann Kalstein that we go to Church Council and have Bill Olinger present his drawings and suggestions. The motion was seconded by Marilyn Minich; motion carried.

At the May 12, 1986, Council meeting, Dotty Nikolaus reported that Bill Olinger had completed the drawings and would present them at the June meeting with a total cost for the complete program of renovation. At this time, he would answer any questions we may have. Church Council made the recommendation this be a Special Congregational Meeting to be held on June 1, 1986, in order to advise the Congregation of the plans and seek their input and feelings about the whole project.

The June 1 Special Congregational Meeting was held and Mr. Olinger presented the total project. [A straw vote taken of those in attendance showed over 95% favorable to the project. President Thelbert Nikolaus then announced that the Council would return with its recommendation at a Special Congregational Meeting on June 29th with a recommendation on how to finance.]

At the Jun 9, 1986, Church Council meeting, Clare Applegate moved that Council call a Special Congregational Meeting for June 29, the purpose to be as follows: Council recommends that the bid from Mr. William Olinger be confirmed with the cost not to exceed $250,000 for the renovation program. Dave Connor seconded the motion; motion carried. ...

Bill Olinger presented blue prints and discussed what would be done during the Renovation Program. After great discussions with the Council, Clare Applegate moved to have a Special Congregational Meeting July 20, 1986, for the consideration of the Renovation Program and where we would go from there. Dave Connor seconded the motion; motion carried.

A Special Congregational Meeting was held on July 20th after Worship. It was 90^o in the Sanctuary. We still went ahead with the meeting. The following minutes indicate the go-ahead:

ST. JOHN'S UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
SPECIAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
RE: PARISH RENOVATION PROGRAM
JULY 20, 1986

Council President Thelbert Nikolaus called the meeting to order and declared there to be a quorum.

Architect William Olinger gave his presentation and cost in detail.

Ron Dapper moved.......

Be it resolved that St. John's United Church of Christ, at a Special Congregational Meeting July 20, 1986, endorsees the Renovation Project, not to exceed $350,000.00, with the intent that the project as presented remain intact.

Also be it resolved that the bid by Turnkey Designs, Inc., Mansfield, Ohio, of $350,000.00 be accepted and entered into contract with the appropriate officers of St. John's signing such papers to effect this Renovation Project to begin immediately.

 Dave Connor seconded this motion. The motion passed.

The ballot vote was 75 for and 41 against.

Clare Applegate moved.....

Be it resolved that the Church Council recommends to the Congregation that the funding of the Renovation Program be accomplished as follows:

A. Use the new monies from the August 24th, 1986, Capital Improvement Campaign.

B. Redeem the Memorial Certificates, or borrow as necessary and appropriate to meet the ongoing construction expenses, this all being at the discretion of the Church Council.

C. Appropriate officers, i.e., President and Secretary, sign any official documents to make the above program effective. The Treasurer will be responsible for all check writing and bill paying and the Financial Secretary will make all deposits as needed in this total program.

Dave Minich seconded this motion. The motion passed. ...

On July 22, 1986, the members o the renovation - Kitchen Committee and volunteers packed dishes and utensils out of the Kitchen. We moved everything from the Kitchen to the classrooms downstairs. Bill Olinger suggested we hold an auction in order to get rid of excess materials taken out of the renovated part. We also decided to ask the members of the Congregation to donate items for the auction. The trustees agreed to help bring large items to the church.

On July 29, 1986, we finished clearing out the Kitchen, moved the Nursery and Church School rooms to the Undercroft,. A huge piece of plastic was put up as a wall and the renovated part was sealed off to everyone but the construction crew.

In August and September, the Trustees, the Renovation Committee and numerous volunteers met in the evenings and on Sunday afternoons in order to get ready for the auction and other work that had to be done. The Deacons were hard at work getting plans together for the Pony Express Campaign. This was done by a kick-off breakfast held on August 24, 1986. Mabel Welch and Jane Buehrer hosted the breakfast. The Pony Express saddlebags were handed out to the 30-plus carriers with instructions. The results were announced later that $151,000 was pledged toward the renovation fund. This will leave nearly $50,000 in our memorial certificates after three years. Everyone felt real good about the support.

In September, 1986, things began to happen, the construction was well on its way. We met with Bill Olinger and picked out the colors, went over the equipment for the kitchen and handled other loose items as they came up.

On October 2, 1986, we held the auction. The turnout was not as good as we had hoped for. We only earned $1,695.70 and the women served lunch and had other items for sale and netted $200.00.

November 10, 1986, Bill Olinger reported the roof was 90% complete, the floor was down in the Kitchen, the cupboards and ceilings in the Kitchen were complete and the elevator and drywall were to be installed next.

Ron Pore moved to purchase 200 chairs for $22.50 each from the Adirondack Direct Company. This will make all the chairs in the Parish Hall uniform in color and style; motion carried.

With a tremendous lot of help on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, the Sanctuary Committee was able to hold the annual Thanksgiving Dinner with 311 people in attendance. We cleaned all the Parish Hall, set up the tables and chairs, decorated and washed everything of dust which included all the chairs (over 300), tables, kitchen equipment we were to use, etc. After the dinner, we had to be sure everything was cleared out and packed away again so the constructions crew could proceed. This was a lot of hard work, but wit the will of God and the volunteers and the Committee, we succeeded to make the dinner a huge success.

In January, 1987, the Committee met every Thursday night and washed dishes, cleaned classrooms, washed tables and chairs and put everything back in order. A lot of work...but after two years, we were so very thankful for the Renovation Program and the nearness of completion.

February 15, 1987, we held our first Family Covered Dish Dinner with 178 people attending. This was the first covered dish held after Worship Service in quite a few years. It was a huge success and there were requests to hold it every month. This will be done as much as possible, and it will be the third Sunday of every month. The new equipment was very much appreciated. It made the dinner so easy to handle, the plates are in plate racks which we wheel to the serving tables. We set the tables with silverware, cups and paper cups. After the dinner, we have pickup carts and tubs, the dirty dishes are brought to the Kitchen and we rinse them off, put them in the dishwasher and back in the cup and plate racks. It take approximately two hours to clean everything up. We thank all those who are not on the Committee who help so much.

We also approved the purchase of another 100 folding chairs making a total of 300 new folding chairs. As we came to the end of the construction, we also received a memorial plaque from a non-member and we also received beautiful furniture for the lounges from a few of the members.

As you an see, the finishing touches were being added as we set the dedication date for May 17, 1987. Rev. Roger Perl, the Northwest Ohio Association Minister, will deliver this morning's message. Rev. Buehrer will serve as Liturgist and our choirs will render music to the Glory of God.