New Center Remodeling Project Status

NEW CENTER REMODELING ROJECT STATUS
OCTOBER 15, 2013

Since the papers were signed on September 26, 2013 completing the purchase of the building there has been amazing progress in readying it for occupancy as the new San Antonio Shambhala Meditation Center. This building, built in the 1950s, has suffered much neglect. It needed a lot of repair and cleaning most of which has been accomplished. Work is performed everyday with maximum volunteer crews being available on Saturday and Sunday.

The bulk of the work has been getting the walls and ceilings ready for painting. This required a tremendous amount of cleaning and trash and debris removal. It seems that some of the space had not been cleaned in years as there were dead rodents and rat feces in crevices. Also necessary for painting preparation were old wall paper removal, door facing repair, and window facing repair. Molding removal and repair and replacement of water damaged wallboard and sheet rock is required. The bulk of this work has been done and a painting party is planned that will require “all hands to participate” this weekend.

The shrine room is basically structurally complete except for some flooring which will be delivered and installed next week. Two rooms were configured into a sacred space which can accommodate up to 30 meditators plus shrines. One wall was remodeled to get rid of an L shape. Doorways and windows were removed to ensure controlled access and privacy. A door has been purchased and needs to be installed as the main entrance. The current main entrance will be used as the handicapped entrance.

The Werma Shrine room and director’s office are ready for painting. The post-meditation room is ready for painting. It required the removal and boarding of a window. The kitchen has been cleaned and prepared for the installation of appliances and painting. The room off the current entrance has been cleaned but needs to be prepared for painting. The restroom has been stripped but requires a plumber to finish. Work is required to inspect and upgrade electrical circuitry. All windows seals have been repaired and windows can now be opened and closed. The lawn has been mowed.

Much has been accomplished but much more needs to be done to ready the building for appraisal towards the end of October to secure the mortgage loan. It must be fully functioning, free of incomplete work and definitely no trash or debris present. We need everyone to help. If you have any free time at all please spend it at the new Center.