Mologne House Courtyard Program

2008-04-29T10:54:00.000-07:00

This Week’s Activities

Installed Engraved Paving Stones on Walk of Appreciation.
Installed Paver Art in Gazebo. It looks great!!
BBQs opened and used this weekend.
Third party weekend—thanks to the Red River Valley River Rats and others.
Completed installation of sod around entire area, except for one small portion.

Next Week’s Planned Activities

Complete installation of kitchen tops and fireplace hearths and mantles.
Complete installation of fireplace appliances, log sets and screens.
Install railings on all ramped walkways.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

None.

Comments

The work is 99% done.
We will remove the last barriers to Courtyard access upon installation of the railings.GRAND OPENING—1400 hours, May 3, 2008

Progress Report: April 20, 2008

2008-04-29T10:51:00.000-07:00

This Week’s Activities

Erected Gazebo. It looks great!!
BBQs ready to go—awaiting final protocol from Mologne House management.
Ordered fabrication of railing for walkway. Installation date: April 30.
Second party weekend—thanks to Suffolk Police Veterans Association.

Next Week’s Planned Activities

Modify bluestone as necessary to complete kitchen tops, fireplace hearth.
Complete installation of sod around entire area. Installation date: April 26.
Install fireplace appliances, log sets and screens.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

None.

Comments

Second great party—thanks to Suffolk Police Veterans Association.
We plan to open the BBQs to the use of the troops and families on Monday, pending issuance of protocol by Mologne House management.

Progress Report: April 13, 2008

2008-04-14T09:08:00.000-07:00

This Week’s Activities

Installed sod around the lower patios. Completed landscaping.
Completed Walk of Appreciation and Gazebo base. Laid footers for Gazebo.
Connected BBQs; all gas tests positive.
Installed three kitchen tops and one fireplace hearth.
Measured all ramps for railing.
OPENED RAMPS—HELD A GREAT PARTY.

Next Week’s Planned Activities

Modify bluestone as necessary to complete kitchen tops, fireplace hearth.
Turn on BBQs. Open to use.
Complete installation of sod around entire area.
Erect gazebo.

Current Safety Concerns

None

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Sod. Gazebo arrives Friday.

Comments

OPENED RAMPS—HELD A GREAT PARTY.
Thanks to The Difference, the Air Products Corporate Band.
Thanks to Greg Casten, Pro Fish, and Kaufmann’s Tavern for the barbeque.
Thanks to the Mologne House staff for all the great help.
We plan to open the BBQs to the use of the troops and families on Monday.

Progress Report: April 6, 2008

2008-04-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

This Week’s Activities

Graded all areas and installed sod around walkway near to Mologne House, between that walkway and the lower patio, and over the gas trenches.
Completed base for walkways and gazebo. Started laying pavers on Walk of Appreciation between
Gazebo and upper sidewalk.
Connected valves to BBQs and one fireplace.
Ordered landscaping.
Ordered gazebo, for delivery on April 18.

Next Week’s Planned Activities

Complete installation of sod.
Complete laying pavers on walkways.
Test all appliances. Turn on gas.
Install kitchen counter tops. Install fireplace hearth, mantles, etc. if material is delivered.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Paving stones for walkways. Sod. Landscaping materials.

Comments

Requested approval of temporary railing to open ramp, pending installation of permanent railing.
We will open the upper patio BBQ for use this week, and lower patio BBQs if we receive Garrison approval of temporary railing.

Progress Report: March 30, 2008

2008-04-03T19:15:00.000-07:00

This Week’s Activities

Covered trenches, backfilled around patios and ordered sod.
Tested gas lines, inspected same.
Connected gas lines to three BBQs, prepared fireplaces for connection.
Excavated for upper walkways and gazebo. Began to lay base in these areas.

Next Week’s Planned Activities

Grade all covered areas and reinstall sod.
Complete base for walkways and gazebos. Start laying pavers.
Finish connecting BBQs. Connect valves in fireplaces. Test all appliances. Turn on gas.
Install sod in area around upper patio and lower left patio.
Order landscaping materials.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Base materials and paving stones for walkways and gazebo.

Comments

Placed temporary railing on ramp, pending installation of permanent ramp. Requesting inspection and determination of adequacy of temporary railing to open ramp.

Progress Report: March 23, 2008

2008-04-03T19:13:00.000-07:00

This Week’s Activities

Completed installation of paving stones for lower patios.
Completed installation of low voltage lighting for ramps and lower right patios.
Completed capping walls for lower patios.
Completed kitchens and fireplaces for lower patios.

Next Week’s Planned Activities

Cover trenches and reinstall sod.
Test gas lines and get inspections.
Begin backfilling around patio walls.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Any deliveries will be by small vehicles only

Comments

The Ernest Maier Crew tells us that they will have the railings for the ramps up and the patios and appliances available for use by the troops not later than April 1.

Progress Report: March 16, 2008

2008-03-24T17:42:00.000-07:00

This Week’s Activities

Completed installation of electric for lower patios.
Completed low voltage lighting for lower right patio, capped walls.
Dug gas trench and installed gas lines.
Installed access doors for kitchens on lower right patio.
Begin installing pavers for lower right patio.
Laid out final gazebo and walkway locations.

Next Week’s Planned Activities

Cover trenches and reinstall sod. Test gas lines and get inspections.
Complete installing pavers for lower right patio.
Begin facing fireplace with veneer stone.
Begin backfilling around patio walls.

Current Safety Concerns

None

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Any deliveries will be by small vehicles only.

Comments

The Ernest Maier Crew tells us that they will have the railings for the ramps up and the patios and appliances available for use by the troops not later than April 1.

Progress Report: March 9, 2008

2008-03-14T11:50:00.000-07:00

This Week’s Activities

Installed electric lines for both lower patios.
Removed sod for gas trench and started digging trench for gas lines.
All base installed and tamped on lower right patio.
Lower right patio fireplace installed.
Lower right patio kitchens ready for access doors and grills.

Next Week’s Planned Activities

Install low voltage lights and start capping sit walls for lower right patio.
Start installing sand and pavers for lower right patio.
Begin facing fireplace for lower right patio.
Install gas lines in trenches, cover and reinstall sod.
Install access doors and grills in kitchens in lower right patio.
Begin backfilling around patio walls.

Current Safety Concerns

Sediment control issue was brought to the crew’s attention early in the week. Situation occurred as a result of the unusually heavy rains. Small amount of sand from the staging area that washed into the street was cleaned up immediately. Crew secured portions of safety fence that have been blown down.

Injuries This Week

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Pavers, sand and veneer early in week.

Comments

All working on the site are committed to having the patios and appliances available for use by the troops not later than April 1.

Progress Report: March 2, 2008

2008-03-04T18:02:00.000-08:00

This Week’s Activities

Installed fireplace unit for lower right patio.
Installed iron plate over manhole cover in south wall of lower right patio.
Put off installation of low voltage lights and capping walls in lower right patio.
Put off installation of sand and pavers in lower right patio.

Next Week’s Planned Activities

Install low voltage lights and start capping sit walls in lower right patio.
Start installing sand and pavers in lower right patio.
Begin facing fireplace for lower right patio.
Weather permitting, dig trench for gas pipes, and lay pipes from Mologne House to appliances in all patios.

Current Safety Concerns

None

Injuries This Week

None

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Several loads of CR6 throughout the week.
Pavers likely towards the end of the week.

Comments

Difficult week because of weather.
Three idle days.
Better weather forecast for next week.

Progress Report: February 24, 2008

2008-03-04T17:59:00.000-08:00

This Week’s Activities

Completed trench for electric lines for lower patios and ramp.
Set final grades and removed last of dirt from lower right patio.
Compacted soil and installed base for lower right patio in 2” lifts in lower right patio.
Installed wire for low voltage lights in lower right patio.
Installed block for fireplace and completed shells for kitchen islands in lower right patio.

Next Week’s Planned Activities

Start fireplace installation in lower right patio.
Install low voltage lights and start capping sit walls in lower right patio.
Start installing sand and pavers in lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None

Injuries This Week

None

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Fireplace and sand mid week. Pavers towards end of week.

Comments

Short week due to weather but lots of progress.
Arborist/Horticulturist to review placement of gazebo on Tuesday.
Final planning on layout for walkway and gazebo expected next week.
Final planning on all wiring and lighting installation expected next week.

Progress Report: February 15, 2008

2008-02-18T11:46:00.000-08:00

This Week’s Activities

Completed wiring for low voltage lighting for lower right patio.
Installed 12” drain pipe around entire lower right patio.
Installed catch basins.
Completed south wall installation on lower right patio.
Graded dirt against south wall of lower right patio.
Removed bluestone from upper patio.

Next Week’s Planned Activities

No work planned Saturday or Sunday.
Continue blocking up fireplace on lower right patio.
Install grill and doors for kitchens in lower right patio.
Start base installation for lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Gray block and cast veneer stone on Monday

Comments

We hope for a good work week coming up.

Progress Report: February 12, 2008

2008-02-15T09:37:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Finished modifications to manhole cover under south wall of lower right patio.
Completed installation of south wall of lower right patio.
Cut grooves for lighting installation on lower right patio walls.
Removed significant dirt and debris from site.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

No work planned Wednesday. Bad weather coming. Resume work Thursday.
Continue blocking up fireplace on lower right patio.
Start work on wing walls for lower right patio access.
Begin lighting installation on lower right patio walls.

Current Safety Concerns

None

Material Deliveries Scheduled

None

Comments

No work planned Wednesday. Bad weather coming. Resume work Thursday.
Hand railing design approved today. We will install it as soon as we get it.

Progress Report: February 8, 2008

2008-02-10T14:58:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Completed installation of outdoor kitchens on lower right patio.
Continued with south side wall installation on lower right patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Complete south side wall installation on lower right patio.
Begin blocking up fireplace on lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Possible trucks in and out all day removing dirt.

Comments

No work on Saturday or Sunday.
Next scheduled work day will be Monday.

Progress Report: February 7, 2008

2008-02-09T09:52:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Began installing outdoor kitchens on lower right patio.
Continued installing south wall.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue kitchen installation, which should be completed by noon.
Continue with south side wall installation.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Possible trucks in and out all day removing dirt.

Comments

Ramp between patios remains closed pending installation of railing and sidewalk above lower right patio remains closed until excavation filled in.

Progress Report: February 6, 2008

2008-02-07T07:27:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Completed north wall of lower right patio.
Dug footer dug on south wall of lower right patio.
Completed excavation for entire patio area.
Excellent progress today.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Begin installing two outdoor kitchens on lower right patio.
Continue installing base for south wall of lower right patio.
Continue installing south wall.

Safety Concerns

None

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Possible trucks in and out all day removing dirt.

Comments

Many thanks to Don Chory for expediting resolution of difficult construction issues on lower right patio.
We are in need of donations for trucking for dirt removal.
If anyone has any leads, please contact Ken Cook. Thanks.

Progress Report: February 5, 2008

2008-02-07T07:24:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Footer dug and poured for the fireplace for lower right patio.
Footer dug for north side wall on lower right patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Block up fireplace for lower right patio.
Lay footer course for north side wall for lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

Moving equipment, material, and the drop from sidewalk to our excavation (5’ or more) for the lower right patio: that is, the sidewalk from the center of the Courtyard to the Playground area.
We cannot open the ramp until the safety of pedestrians can be assured.
As lower right patio progresses, and the equipment and materials clear the area, we will review this issue
We want the ramp open for the residents as soon as possible, but not with safety risks.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

None

Comments

This is a team effort with two teams playing the same game, and we are appreciate the cooperation and advice of our WRAMC team. Thanks.

Progress Report: February 2, 2008

2008-02-05T09:22:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Put finishing touches on ramps.
Planned temporary railing on ramps.
Excavated for walls for lower right patio

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Tamp ramps.
Seek approval of temporary railings for ramps.
Continue excavation for walls in lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

We expect regular deliveries of stone and pavers on Monday.
We expect deliveries of gas pipes by mid-week.

Comments

Thanks to Don Graham, ISO, for the suggestion of installing temporary ramps.
Short work day, but good day. No work tomorrow. Expect good upcoming week.
We have completed the structure of the ramps, but we need to tamp down the pavers.

Progress Report: February 1, 2008

2008-02-01T19:49:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Finished laying pavers on entire ramp area.
Installed channel drains.
Installed lighting on ramp walls.
Capped ramp wall.
Cleaned up area.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

No plans to work tomorrow.
Heavy storms coming.
Plan to work Saturday.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

No deliveries tomorrow or Saturday.
We expect regular deliveries of stone and pavers on Monday.

Comments

Great work day. No work tomorrow.
We have completed the structure of the ramps, but we need to tamp down the pavers.
The rain will help settle the pavers. We can open the ramps by Tuesday or Wednesday if we can get permission to do so before the installation of the railing.
We plan on working Saturday.

Progress Report: January 30, 2008

2008-01-31T12:56:00.001-08:00

Today’s Activities

GREAT DAY: WE HAVE JUST ABOUT FINISHED THE RAMP.
We laid out the position of the railings for the ramp.
We are finalizing design for the lower right patio.
We are evaluating final options for the placement of the Gazebo.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Finish laying pavers on ramps.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

We expect continual deliveries of stone and pavers.

Comments

We remain seriously committed to completing the ramps by the end of the week.
We will evaluate the opening of the ramp without the placement of railings.
We plan on working Saturday.

Progress Report: January 29, 2008

2008-01-30T07:43:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Re-skirt lower ramp area.
Begin laying pavers on upper ramp.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue laying pavers on ramps.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

We expect regular deliveries of stone and pavers on Monday.

Comments

Great work day. We expect a few more good days next week.
We remain seriously committed to completing the ramps by the end of the week.
We plan on working Saturday.

Progress Report: January 28, 2008

2008-01-30T07:33:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Put finishing touches on lower left patio.

Finished base for ramps.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Start laying pavers on ramps.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

We expect regular deliveries of stone and pavers on Monday.

Comments

Great work day. We expect a few more good days next week.

We remain seriously committed to completing the ramps by the end of the week.

Progress Report: January 25, 2008

2008-01-25T21:24:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Completed doors on outdoor kitchen for lower left patio.
Installed caps for sitting walls on lower left patio.
Finished lighting for entire lower left patio.
Finished screed for base for ramps.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Start laying pavers on ramps.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

We expect regular deliveries of stone and pavers on Monday.

Comments

Great work day. We expect a few more good days next week.
We remain seriously committed to completing the ramps by the end of the week.

Progress Report: January 24, 2008

2008-01-25T08:17:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Put finishing touches on paving stones in lower left patio.
Started capping sitting walls in lower left patio.
Installed lighting for sitting walls in lower left patio.
Installed doors in outdoor kitchen.
Excavated all concrete from steps area.
Laid most base material for ramps.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Finish base for ramps.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

We do not expect any major deliveries tomorrow.

Comments

Good work day. We expect another one tomorrow.
We are in the freezing season.
We need to get our time in “when we can” and will do it the best we can.

Progress Report: January 23, 2008

2008-01-25T08:15:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Cut all final paving stones to finalize entire lower left patio.
Put grove in sitting walls for wiring for lights in lower left patio.
Started installation of lights for sitting walls in lower left patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Finish installation of lighting in lower left patio.
Cap walls in lower left patio.
Start prep on base for ramps.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

We do not expect any major deliveries tomorrow.

Comments

We are in the freezing season.
We need to get our time in “when we can” and will do it the best we can.
We missed yesterday, but today was a good day, and we look forward to tomorrow.

Progress Report: January 21, 2008

2008-01-22T07:50:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Laid all paving stones in lower left patio.
Completed walls for ramp.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Snow advisory—not sure if we can work.
Cut all final paving stones to finalize entire lower left patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

We do not expect any major deliveries tomorrow.

Comments

We are in the beginning of the freezing season.
We need to get our time in “when we can” and will do it the best we can.

Progress Report: January 18, 2008

2008-01-22T07:49:00.001-08:00

Today was a snow removal day.

Progress Report: January 17, 2008

2008-01-22T07:48:00.001-08:00

Snow kept us from working today.

Progress Report: January 16, 2008

2008-01-18T06:54:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Continued to truck out excess dirt in lower right patio area.
Completed walls for ramps.
Continued prep work for base on ramps.
Revised outdoor kitchen in lower left patio.
Continued lower wall on lower right patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

No work planned tomorrow—snow prediction looks valid.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

No work scheduled tomorrow.

Comments

Sometimes the weatherman is right.
We hope to be back on the job Friday, certainly by Monday or Tuesday.

Progress Report: January 15, 2008

2008-01-18T06:52:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Continued to truck out excess dirt in lower right patio area.
Put in drains above walkway through center of courtyard.
Completed walls for ramp.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue to lay paving stones in lower left patio.
Continue prep work for base on ramps.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Expect heavy deliveries of stone and base materials over the next few days.

Comments

Cold weather but clear enough for good progress.
Cold weather precautions in place for crew.

Progress Report: January 14, 2008

2008-01-18T06:49:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Laid paving stones over half of lower left patio.
Continued to truck out excess dirt in lower right patio area.
Completed walls for east side of ramp.
Began prep work for base on ramps.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue to lay paving stones in lower left patio.
Continue work on walls for lower right patio.
Continue prep work for base on ramps.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Expect heavy deliveries of stone and base materials over the next few days.

Comments

We appreciate the assistance of all the WRAMC staff in solving minor underground issues in the lower patios. We are confident in the solutions.
We are sure that we will stay on schedule, if the weather holds.
We appreciate the comments from visitors to the site about the mantle and countertop and we are ordering materials that have rounded or beveled edges to replace the sharp edges that are now there. Thanks.

Progress Report: January 11, 2008

2008-01-13T13:37:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Short work day today—rained out at noon.
Finalized sand base for lower left patio, covered all with canvas.
Continued work on walls for lower right patio.
Moved temporary fencing around staging area away from sidewalks and secured it better.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Begin laying paving stones on lower left patio.
Continue to truck out excess dirt in lower right patio area.
Complete walls for east side of ramp.
Continue work on walls for lower right patio.
Begin prep work for base on ramps.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Expect more trucks to haul out excess dirt from lower right patio.
Expect heavy deliveries of stone and base materials over the next few days.

Comments

Good progress this week despite rainy conditions at end of week.
We appreciate the constant advice and support from all aspects of our WRAMC team, especially our liaison SPC John Williams and COL Doherty’s colleagues.

Progress Report: January 10, 2008

2008-01-13T13:35:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activity

Screed base for lower left patio.
Finalize sand base for lower left patio.
Completed most of walls for east side of ramp.
Continued work on walls for lower right patio.
Moved temporary fencing around staging area.
Trucked out excess dirt in lower right patio area.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue to truck out excess dirt in lower right patio area.
Complete walls for east side of ramp.
Continue work on walls for lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

Moved temporary fencing around staging area.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

No deliveries scheduled tomorrow.
Expect trucks to haul out excess dirt from lower right patio.

Comments

Good progress despite rainy conditions.

Progress Report: January 9, 2008

2008-01-12T18:40:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Completed laying base for lower left patio.
Continued work on walls for east side of ramp.
Continued work on walls for lower right patio.
Solved immediate safety problem with fencing around staging area.
Developed alternative solution for manhole access to drainage pipes.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Provide more permanent solution for fencing around staging area.
Truck out excess dirt in lower right patio area.
Continue work on walls for east side of ramp.
Continue work on walls for lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

Fencing around staging area is instable in increased winds and poor weather. Solved immediate problem today; will provide a more permanent solution tomorrow.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

No deliveries scheduled tomorrow.
Expect trucks to haul out excess dirt from lower right patio.

Comments

Thanks to observant WRAMC staff for calling instable fencing issue to our attention.
Please continue to provide us advice and suggestions on this team effort to improve the lives of our Wounded Warriors.

Progress Report: January 8, 2008

2008-01-09T17:52:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Continued laying base for lower left patio.
Continued work on walls for east side of ramp.
Continued work on walls for lower right patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue laying base for lower left patio.
Continue work on walls for east side of ramp.
Continue work on walls for lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None.
Continue to expect heavy loads of material during all work days in January.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Light deliveries scheduled next week.

Comments

Great work day today.
We expect heavy work schedules this next week, as the weather predictions are very good.
We are pleased with the progress on the ramp, hoping to meet our completion target of mid-January.

Progress Report: January 7, 2008

2008-01-09T17:48:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Began laying base for lower left patio.
Complete inspection of sheathing of utilities for lower left patio.
Continued work on walls for east side of ramp.
Continued work on walls for lower right patio.
Installed most of Bluestone in Upper Patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue laying base for lower left patio.
Continue work on walls for east side of ramp.
Continue work on walls for lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

Continue to expect heavy loads of material during all work days in January.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Light deliveries scheduled next week.

Comments

Great work day today.
We expect heavy work schedules this next week, as the weather predictions are very good.

Progress Report: January 5, 2008

2008-01-07T10:49:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Completed prep for laying base for lower left patio.
Continued work on walls for east side of ramp.
Continued work on walls for lower right patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Begin laying base for lower left patio.
Complete inspection of sheathing of utilities for lower left patio.
Continue work on walls for east side of ramp.
Continue work on walls for lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None.
Continue to expect heavy loads of material during all work days in January.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Light deliveries scheduled next week.

Comments

We expect heavy work schedules this next week, as the weather predictions are very good.
We are pleased with the progress on the ramp, hoping to meet our completion target of mid-January.

Progress Report: January 4, 2008

2008-01-06T08:42:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Completed sheathing conduit pipes below surface of lower left patio.
Continued work on walls for east side of ramp.
Continued work on walls for lower right patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue work on walls for east side of ramp.
Continue work on walls for lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None.
Cold weather precautions in place.
Continue to expect heavy loads of material during all work days in January.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Light deliveries scheduled next week.

Comments

We expect heavy work schedules this next week, as the weather predictions are very good.
We are pleased with the progress on the ramp, hoping to meet our completion target.

Progress Report: January 3, 2008

2008-01-03T20:29:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Completed west walls for ramp.
Delayed resolution of sheathing issues for conduit pipes below surface of lower left patio to accommodate other contractor’s work.
Delayed completion of prep work for base of lower left patio for same reason.
Finished footers for east side of ramp; began work on east walls for ramp.
Started digging footers for walls for lower right patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Complete sheathing underground utilities for lower left patio.
Complete prep work for base for lower left patio.
Continue work on walls for east side of ramp.
Continue digging footers for walls for lower right patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None.
Cold weather precautions in place.
Continue to expect heavy loads of material during all work days in January.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Light deliveries scheduled rest of first week of January.

Comments

We are on schedule and should meet our targets.
We are taking cold weather precautions for the work crew.
We expect heavy work schedules until completion of lower left patio and ramp, probably working weekends as long as we can.
We expect to work this weekend, at least Saturday, to install bluestone kitchen countertop, fireplace hearth and fireplace mantle in Upper Patio.

Progress Report: January 2, 2008

2008-01-03T09:28:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Great start to the New Year.
Finished all but one small portion of the walls for lower left patio.
Completed west walls for ramp.
Resolved sheathing issues for conduit pipes below surface of lower left patio.
Dug footers for east walls for ramp.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Complete sheathing underground utilities for lower left patio
Complete prep work for base for lower left patio.
Complete walls for lower left patio.
Finish footers for east side of ramp.

Current Safety Concerns

None.
Cold weather precautions in place.
Continue to expect heavy loads of material during all work days in January.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Light deliveries scheduled rest of first week of January.

Comments

We are on schedule and should meet our targets.
We are taking cold weather precautions for the work crew.
We expect heavy work schedules until completion of lower left patio and ramp, probably working weekends as long as we can.

Progress Report: December 28, 2007

2007-12-30T15:09:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Although it’s been a light week, we had a day of good progress.
Completed 95% of the walls for lower left patio and west walls for ramp.
Completed outdoor kitchen for lower left patio.
Dug drainage ditches for lower left patio.
Resolved sheathing issues for conduit pipes below surface of lower left patio.
Completed excavation for ramp.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

No work for the next 4 days—Happy New Year.
Next Wednesday, weather permitting, complete construction of walls for lower left patio and west side of ramp.
Install drainage for lower left patio.
Prep ground for base for lower left patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None.
Cold weather precautions in place.
Continue to expect heavy loads of material during all work days in January.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

No deliveries scheduled until next Wednesday, January 2.

Comments

No work for four days.
We are taking cold weather precautions for the work crew.
We will have a full crew resuming work on January 2, 2008, with heavy work schedules until completion of lower left patio and ramp.

December 27, 2007: Photo Updates!

2007-12-30T15:07:00.001-08:00

We have not been on site for the last two days. Our crew has been doing emergency repair work in Howard County. That's the reality of a good crew--they get the call for such jobs.

We will be back on site tomorrow.

Instead, a couple of quick pictures just to show you how things are going:

Progress Report: December 21, 2007

2007-12-21T19:37:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Another day of good progress.
Almost completed walls for lower left patio and west walls for ramp.
Completed basic construction of outdoor kitchen for lower left patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

No work for the next 4 days—Merry Christmas.
Next Wednesday, weather permitting, continue construction of walls for ramp.
Prep ground for base for lower left patio.

Current Safety Concerns

Continue to expect heavy loads of material. Lots of truck traffic at staging area.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

No deliveries scheduled until next Wednesday, December 26.

Comments

No work for four days.
We are taking cold weather precautions for the work crew.
We will have a light crew during the rest of Christmas week.
We will have a full crew resuming work on January 2, 2008.

Progress Report: December 20, 2007

2007-12-21T19:25:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Another day of good progress.
Continue building walls for lower left patio and west walls for ramp.
Began construction of outdoor kitchen for lower left patio.
Finalize plans for both lower patios and ramp.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue construction for kitchen in lower left patio.
Continue construction of walls for ramp.

Current Safety Concerns

None. Cold weather precautions in place.
Continue to expect heavy loads of material. Lots of truck traffic at staging area.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

No deliveries scheduled tomorrow.

Comments

We are taking cold weather precautions for the work crew.
We will work tomorrow and take off a long pre-Christmas weekend and then Christmas day. We will have a light crew during the rest of Christmas week, with a full crew resuming work on January 2.

Progress Report: December 19, 2007

2007-12-20T20:09:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Great progress again today, a little cold but clear.
Power washed upper patio, prepped for final sanding.
Continue building walls for lower left patio.
Finished installing drain pipes for lower left patio.
Repair and cover pipes below surface of patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Finished lower and west walls for lower left patio.
Finished east wall for lower left patio and lower west wall for ramp.

Current Safety Concerns

None. Cold weather precautions in place.
Continue to expect heavy loads of material. Lots of truck traffic at staging area.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Heavy loads of number 3 stones (22 tons) and stone (10 tons) for filling lower patio area will be coming on a regular basis.
We will begin to haul out the dirt that we cannot use on the project.

Comments

We are taking cold weather precautions for the work crew.
Expect staging area to be full of material for the next several weeks.
If the weather holds good for us, we hope to have the walls for the lower left patio and for the ramps up by the end of the week, enabling us to work on the base for the paving stones.

Progress Report: December 18, 2007

2007-12-19T18:27:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Great progress again today, a little cold but clear.
Continue building walls for lower left patio.
Finished installing drain pipes for lower left patio.
Repair and cover pipes below surface of patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Finished lower and west walls for lower left patio.
Finished east wall for lower left patio and lower west wall for ramp.

Current Safety Concerns

None. Cold weather precautions in place.
Continue to expect heavy loads of material. Lots of truck traffic at staging area.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Heavy loads of number 3 stones (22 tons) and stone (10 tons) for filling lower patio area will be coming on a regular basis.
We will begin to haul out the dirt that we cannot use on the project.

Comments

We are taking cold weather precautions for the work crew.
Expect staging area to be full of material for the next several weeks.
If the weather holds good for us, we hope to have the walls for the lower left patio and for the ramps up by the end of the week, enabling us to work on the base for the paving stones.

Progress Report: December 17, 2007

2007-12-19T18:23:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Great progress today, a little cold but clear.
Finished the gravel base for all walls on lower left patio.
Continued digging footers for the walls for the ramp.
Finished installing drain pipes for lower left patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue building walls for lower left patio.
Continue digging footers for the walls for left side of ramp, once final length has been determined.
Repair and cover pipes below surface of patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None. Cold weather precautions in place.
Continue to expect heavy loads of material. Lots of truck traffic at staging area.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Heavy loads of gravel (22 tons) and stone (10 tons) for filling lower patio area will be coming on a regular basis.
We will begin to haul out the dirt that we cannot use on the project.

Comments

We are taking cold weather precautions for the work crew.
Expect staging area to be full of material for the next several weeks.
If the weather holds good for us, we hope to have the walls for the lower left patio and for the ramps up by mid-week, enabling us to work on the base for the paving stones.

Progress Report: December 14, 2007

2007-12-15T16:12:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

No work yesterday, 13 December 2007—great progress today.
Dug footers and laid gravel for over 75% of wall in lower left patio.
Dug footers and laid gravel for footers on one ramp wall.
Installed drain pipes for lower left patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

No work planned on weekend.
Depending on the weather, we will finish the gravel base for all walls in lower left patio.
Depending on the weather, we will continue doing the walls for the ramp.

Current Safety Concerns

None.
Heavy loads of material expected soon. Lots of truck traffic at staging area.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

We will soon place a dumpster on the staging area.
Heavy loads of gravel and stone for filling lower patio area will be coming on a regular basis.
We will begin to haul out the dirt that we cannot use on the project.

Comments

No work on the weekend.
Expect staging area to be full of material for the next several weeks.
If the weather holds good for us, we hope to have the walls for the lower left patio and for the ramps up by mid-week, enabling us to work on the base for the paving stones.

Progress Report: December 12, 2007

2007-12-15T16:09:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Installed low level lights in upper patio.
Dug footers for wall in lower left patio.
Laid gravel for footers on one wall in lower left patio.
Revised plans for lower patios and ramps.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Expect weather to cancel work.

Current Safety Concerns

None.
Heavy loads of material expected soon. Lots of truck traffic at staging area.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

We will soon place a dumpster on the staging area.
Heavy loads of gravel and stone for filling lower patio area will be coming on a regular basis.

Comments

Expect staging area to be full of material for the next several weeks.

Progress Report: December 11, 2007

2007-12-13T08:02:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Very light workload today.
Cleaned staging area in preparation for heavy deliveries of material for lower patio area.
Put finishing touches on fireplace and outdoor kitchen for upper patio.
Completed installation of electrical outlets for upper patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Finished cleaning area around upper patio.
Begin digging footers for wall in lower left patio and begin excavation of ramp area.

Current Safety Concerns

None.
Heavy loads of material expected soon. Lots of truck traffic at staging area.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

We will soon place a dumpster on the staging area.
Heavy loads of gravel and stone for filling lower patio area will be coming on a regular basis.

Comments

Expect staging area to be full of material for the next several weeks.
We appreciate the allocation of three parking spaces for our crew for the next six weeks.

Progress Report: December 10, 2007

2007-12-11T16:08:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Light construction workload due to rain and final decision-making on lower patio.
Finished electrical outlets for outdoor kitchen for upper patio.
String lined and measured tops of pipes and other underground structures below lower left patio area.
Evaluated same with WRAMC DPW staff.
Decided on footprint for lower left patio.
Post signs for closing of rear Breezeway entrance/exit and temporary ramp to Courtyard

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Depending on weather, prepare for placing footers for walls on left lower patio.
Finish cleaning area around upper patio.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Multiple flat beds and dump trucks.
We will soon place a dumpster on the staging area.

Comments

Thanks to WRAMC DPW staff for timely and thorough evaluation of site issues.
Work depends on rain, for tomorrow and the next day.
Only finishing touches needed for upper patio.
Rear Breezeway exit/entrance and temporary ramp closed indefinitely.
Go to our website, www.YellowRibbonFund.org, to see pictures of progress.

Progress Report: December 9, 2007

2007-12-10T11:54:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Cleaned and secured walkways across left side and center of Courtyard.
Finished grill and cupboard doors for outdoor kitchen for upper patio.
Completed veneering outdoor fireplace for upper patio.
99% completed upper patio.
Completed excavation for lower left patio.
Post signs for closing of rear Breezeway entrance/exit and temporary ramp to Courtyard.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Put finishing touches on upper patio.
String line and measure tops of pipes and other underground structures below lower left patio area.
Evaluate challenges disclosed by lower left patio excavation.
Decide on footprint for lower left patio.
Begin demolition of stairs and center area for ramp.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Multiple flat beds and dump trucks.
We will soon place a dumpster on the staging area.

Comments

We are working tomorrow, Monday, Dec. 10, from early morning until the rain stops us.
Only finishing touches needed for upper patio.
Rear Breezeway exit/entrance and temporary ramp closed indefinitely.

Go to our website, www.YellowRibbonFund.org, to see pictures of progress.

Progress Report: December 8, 2007

2007-12-09T20:01:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Finished trim around upper patio, made area around patio accessible.
Filled trenches for electrical lines for upper patio.
Top dressed, graded and seeded area where temporary sidewalk was removed.
Finished capping wall for upper patio.
Installed grill for outdoor kitchen for upper patio.
Initiated veneering outdoor fireplace for upper patio.
Started excavating for lower left patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Post signs for closing of rear Breezeway entrance/exit and temporary ramp to Courtyard.
Complete veneering outdoor fireplace for upper patio.
Put finishing touches on upper patio.
Clean and secure walkways across left side and center of Courtyard.
Evaluate challenges disclosed by lower left patio excavation.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

None Sunday.
Multiple flat beds and dump trucks, possibly dumpster, on Monday.

Comments

We are working tomorrow, Sunday, Dec. 9, from early morning until the rain stops us.
Temporary sidewalk no longer needed.
Permanent sidewalk has full access at all times.
Only finishing touches needed for upper patio.
Rear Breezeway exit/entrance and temporary ramp will be closed indefinitely.

Progress Report: December 7, 2007

2007-12-08T08:40:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Installed sod.
Installed doors for outdoor kitchen.
Cleaned, washed all sidewalks; removed temporary sidewalk.
Continued to install electric line and outlets for kitchen.
Back filled portion of trenches for electrical lines.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Top dress, grade and seed area where temporary sidewalk was removed.
Finish capping wall; Sweep joint sand for pavers and tamp.
Complete installation of electric lines and outlets for kitchen.
Install grill for outdoor kitchen.
Begin veneering outdoor fireplace.
Complete backfilling trenches for electrical lines.
Start excavating for bottom patio.
Post signs for closing of rear Breezeway entrance/exit and temporary ramp to Courtyard.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

None tomorrow.
Multiple flat beds and dump trucks, possibly dumpster, on Monday.

Comments

Temporary sidewalk no longer needed. Permanent sidewalk has full access at all times.
Rear Breezeway exit/entrance and temporary ramp will be closed indefinitely starting tomorrow.
Only finishing touches needed for upper patio.

Progress Report: December 6, 2007

2007-12-08T08:36:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Short work day due to snow cover—most activities snowed out.
Completed trench for electrical lines around upper patio.
Prepped ground for laying sod.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

WEATHER PERMITTING—BUSY DAY

Install doors and grill for outdoor kitchen for upper patio.
Install electrical lines around upper patio, complete capping of sitting wall.
Sod around upper patio.
Complete sanding for upper patio surface.
Lay out lines for lower patios/ramp.

Current Safety Concerns

Snow, slippery surfaces. WATCH YOUR STEP around work site.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Sod delivered today.
Many deliveries put off until tomorrow.
Veneer stone and caps on small Ernest Maier flatbed truck.
Doors and grill for outdoor kitchen.

Comments

Snow caused us to put all work off most of yesterday and today.
We must work Saturday and Sunday, to finish the upper patio this week.
Snow has delayed veneering fireplace until the weekend.
We will begin work on lower patio/ramp area on Sunday or Monday.
Prepare for closure of breezeway for work on lower patio/ramp area Sunday or Monday.

Progress Report: December 5, 2007

2007-12-06T12:32:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Excavated by hand location of steam pipe that runs through lower patio.
All other activities snowed out.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

WEATHER PERMITTING

Install doors and grill for outdoor kitchen for upper patio, if equipment arrives.
Complete trench for electrical lines around upper patio.
Complete sanding for upper patio surface.
Lay out lines for lower patios/ramp.

Current Safety Concerns

Snow, slippery surfaces. WATCH YOUR STEP around work site.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

All deliveries from today rescheduled for tomorrow.
Veneer stone on small Ernest Maier flatbed truck.
Doors and grill for outdoor kitchen.
Final caps and finishing materials for upper patio.

Comments

Snow caused us to put all work off for one complete day.
We must work Saturday and Sunday, to finish the upper patio this week.
Snow has delayed veneering fireplace until the weekend.
We will begin work on lower patio/ramp area on Sunday or Monday.

Prepare for closure of breezeway for work on lower patio/ramp area Sunday or Monday.

Progress Report: December 4, 2007

2007-12-05T06:16:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Completed installation of wiring for low voltage lights and some low voltage lights in upper patio.
Completed installation of firebrick in outdoor fireplace for upper patio.
Review hand railing detail and placement for entire Courtyard.
Dug trenches for electrical lines around upper patio.
Began sanding between paving stones.
Placed topsoil around upper patio.
Set out initial grade lines for lower patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Install doors and grill for outdoor kitchen for upper patio, if equipment arrives.
Excavate by hand to locate steam pipe that runs through lower patio.
Complete trench for electrical lines around upper patio.
Complete sanding for upper patio surface.
Locate steam pipe in lower patio area.

Current Safety Concerns

Snow, slippery surfaces. WATCH YOUR STEP around work site.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Veneer stone on small Ernest Maier flatbed truck.
Doors and grill for outdoor kitchen.
Final caps and finishing materials for upper patio.

Comments

Snow will cause us to work Saturday and Sunday, as we are determined that cold weather will not keep us from finishing the upper patio this week.
Snow may delay veneering fireplace until the weekend.
We appear to be on track to begin work on lower patio/ramp area this Wednesday or Thursday.
Prepare for closure of breezeway for work on lower patio/ramp area.

Progress Report: December 3, 2007

2007-12-05T06:12:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Install wiring for low voltage lights and some low voltage lights in upper patio.
Begin to cap sitting wall for upper patio.
Install firebrick in outdoor fireplace for upper patio.
Excavate by hand to locate steam pipe that runs through lower patio.
Review hand railing detail and placement for entire Courtyard.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Finish installing low voltage lighting and capping wall for upper patio.
Install doors and grill for outdoor kitchen for upper patio.
Begin veneering outdoor fireplace for upper patio.
Locate propane tanks for outdoor fireplace for upper patio.
Locate steam pipe in lower patio area and excavate around entire pipe.
Evaluate electrical conduit requirements for entire program.

Current Safety Concerns

None.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Veneer stone on small Ernest Maier flatbed truck.
Two loads of topsoil on Ernest Maier small dump truck.

Comments

Cold weather will not keep us from finishing the upper patio this week.
Good luck (so far) in avoiding disruption or change in lower patio plan from subterranean steam pipe.
We appear to be on track to begin work on lower patio/ramp area this Wednesday or Thursday.
Prepare for closure of breezeway for work on lower patio/ramp area.
Please expect the breezeway access to the Courtyard to be eliminated from late next week through the Christmas holidays, reopening in January—weather permitting us to maintain a heavy work schedule throughout December.

Updated Courtyard Access Map

2007-12-02T13:52:00.000-08:00

We are very pleased that we are ending the construction of the upper patio by the middle of next week, and we will open the walkway to the left of the pool and the new upper patio, close to Mologne House. We will soon begin construction of the lower patio/ramp area. Our plan is to focus on the ramp and the patio to the left of the ramp first (as indicated by the area in orange), then the right lower patio area. This is the second major phase of our construction.

We apologize for the inconvenience that we are about to cause, and we hope to limit the restriction on your access to the Courtyard as much as possible.

As construction begins, and throughout the entire period of work, we will provide maps here indicating walkways and paths which may be impacted by the work being done. Please check back regularly. To view a full-sized map, simply click on the image below.

From December 4 through January 10, the following items will be important to note:

The entrance/exit from the Breezeway in Mologne House to the Courtyard will be shut off entirely. This closure is indicated in red on the map.

You will have to detour from the Breezeway around the parking lot side of Mologne House to the walkway near the staging area for the construction equipment past the Playground. This closure is indicated in blue on the map.

In addition, areas marked in yellow on the map may be blocked temporarily when construction equipment is in transit. Flagmen will provide guidance at these times.

Progress Report: December 1, 2007

2007-12-01T21:18:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activity

Laid paving stones for entrance of upper patio.
Completed most of wing walls for upper patio fireplace.
Made final cuts for paving stones for upper patio.
Cleaned up entire upper patio area in preparation for next phase.
Reviewed initial site access plan for lower patio/ramp area.
Cut all channels for low voltage lighting for upper patio.

Monday’s Planned Activities

Finish capping upper patio sitting wall.
Finish remainder of upper patio fireplace wing walls.
Review drawings and site access plan for next phase with WRAMC staff.
Post early warnings for next phase.

Current Safety Concerns

No new issues.
Excellent suggestion from a Mologne House resident: when cutting blocks, direct cuts away from buildings, so that stone thrown by cut will not break window or hit somebody.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

No deliveries scheduled for Monday.

Comments

We will begin final plans for work on the lower patio/ramp area. We will begin posting early warning notices Monday.

Please expect the breezeway access to the Courtyard to be eliminated from late next week through the Christmas holidays, reopening in January—weather permitting us to maintain a heavy work schedule throughout December.

Progress Report: November 30, 2007

2007-12-01T21:15:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activity

Laid 1,800 square feet of paving stones in upper patio.
Completed wall at entrance of upper patio.
Started wing walls for upper patio fireplace.
Drafted initial site access plan for lower patio/ramp area.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Install low voltage lighting for upper patio.
Finish laying paving stones in upper patio.
Start capping upper patio sitting wall.
Construct remainder of upper patio fireplace wing walls.
Review site access plan for next phase.
Draft early warning signs for next phase.

Current Safety Concerns

No new issues. Lots of stone cutting. Ear plugs, face masks in constant use.
Reviewing access plan for work on lower patio and ramp area.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

No deliveries scheduled for Saturday.

Comments

Weather reports are for rain on Sunday, Monday and possibly Tuesday. Work schedule approved for Saturday 7:30 to dusk. Weather permitting, we plan on starting work on the lower patio/ramp area on Thursday or Friday of next week, eliminating access from the breezeway through the Courtyard. We will begin posting early warning notices Monday.

Please expect the breezeway access to the Courtyard to be eliminated from late next week through the Christmas holidays, reopening in January—weather permitting us to maintain a heavy work schedule throughout December.

Progress Report: November 29, 2007

2007-11-30T14:45:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Completed installation of seat wall for upper patio.

Completed drain pipes and drainage system for upper patio.

Completed installation of all base material for paving stones.

Put in base block for wall at entrance of upper patio.

Completed outdoor kitchen island.

Completed backfill outside of wall with top soil and grade.

Reviewed construction drawings for lower patio/ramp area.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Install low voltage lighting for upper patio.

Lay paving stones in upper patio.

Construct remainder of upper patio fireplace wing walls.

Layout lower patio/ramp area. Draft initial site access plan for next phase.

Start capping upper patio sitting wall.

Current Safety Concerns

No new issues. Preparing access plan for work on lower patio and ramp area.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

At least one more truck of paving stones to arrive on Ernest Maier flat bed.

Comments

Weather reports are for rain on Sunday, Monday and possibly Tuesday. We plan on working Saturday 7:30 to dusk and perhaps Sunday if it does not rain. We plan on starting work on the lower patio/ramp area on Wednesday or Thursday of next week, which will mean cutting access from the breezeway through the Courtyard. We will begin posting notices this weekend.

Progress Report: November 28, 2007

2007-11-29T15:30:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Firebox for fireplace installed.
Chimney started.
Installation of seat wall nearly complete.
Backfill outside of wall w/top soil and grade.
Continue w/building of outdoor kitchen island.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Start to install low voltage lighting
Continue to backfill patio portion of project w/crushed stone and compact
Construct remainder of fireplace chimney & wing walls
Screed sand and start laying pavers
Layout lower patio/ramp area
Start capping sitting wall

Current Safety Concerns

Reviewed ear protection requirements w/all employees when using saws or other equipment. Ear plugs were provided again to all employees.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

At least one truck of pavers to arrive on Ernest Maier flat bed

Progress Report: November 27, 2007

2007-11-28T11:45:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Installation of upper patio seat wall continues.
Continue to backfill for patio portion of project with crushed stone and compact.
Started running wiring for low voltage lighting for upper patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Comcast Network crew on site to begin filming as TV special episode of American Builder.
Continue with seat wall installation for upper patio.
Continue to backfill for patio portion of project with crushed stone and compact.
Continue running wiring for low voltage lighting and install lights for upper patio.

Current Safety Concerns

Nothing new at this time.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

No deliveries scheduled for tomorrow.

Comments

Beautiful weather. We are on schedule to complete the upper patio project by beginning of next week.

Once we complete the upper patio project, we will begin on the lower patios and the ramp leading from the Mologne House breezeway to the Courtyard. We will be closing off the breezeway entrance/exit to the Courtyard, but the breezeway will be open and the entrance/exit to the parking lot will remain open. We will provide a new access map by the end of the week and post appropriate signs in advance.

Progress Report: November 26, 2007

2007-11-26T20:31:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Upper patio fireplace base plate set.
Installation of upper patio seat wall continues.
Continue to backfill for patio portion of project with crushed stone and compact.
Drainage system installation for upper patio complete.
Started running wiring for low voltage lighting for upper patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue with seat wall installation for upper patio.
Continue to backfill for patio portion of project with crushed stone and compact.
Continue running wiring for low voltage lighting and install lights for upper patio.

Current Safety Concerns

Nothing new at this time.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Numerous dump trucks with crushed and clean stone in Ernest Maier Trucks.

Comments

Rain was a minor factor today. We are on schedule to complete the upper patio project by beginning of next week if not sooner.

Col Haselden visited the site and gave very encouraging words to the Site Manager which he passed on to the crew at lunch time. The workers are very pleased to see the soldiers, Marines and their families watching the progress of the work, especially on the weekend. They expressed their respect and admiration for the residents of Mologne House and Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Progress Report: November 25, 2007

2007-11-25T18:30:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Fireplace footer for upper patio completed.
Installation of seat wall for upper patio started.
Continue with installation of drainage for upper patio.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Continue with seat wall installation for upper patio.
Complete drainage for upper patio.
Continue to backfill patio portion of project w/crushed stone and compact for upper patio.
Start running wiring for low voltage lighting for upper patio.

Current Safety Concerns

Nothing new at this time. We expect many deliveries tomorrow, and we expect a rainy day.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Numerous dump trucks with crushed and clean stone.
We are alert to rainy weather, and we expect a lot of activity.

Comments

Quiet weekend from the residential standpoint, good progress on the site.
Rain likely on Monday and probably on Tuesday, as noted above.
Work will continue as long as it is not a heavy rain.
Nice visit from Peter Anderson on Sunday afternoon.
Thanks for the good words to the crew.

Progress Report: November 24, 2007

2007-11-24T21:26:00.000-08:00

Today's Activities

Upper patio wall installation almost complete.
Continue with fireplace footer installation.
Continue with drainage installation.
Install grill footer block.

Tomorrow's Planned Activities

Complete drainage installation.
Complete fireplace footer installation (if block is available).
Complete wall installation.
Start backfilling upper patio with crushed stone.

Current Safety Concerns

None. It's quiet at Mologne House this weekend.

Material Deliveries Scheduled

Nothing on Sunday.
Monday plan on several loads of crushed and clean stone in Ernest Maier dump trucks.

Comments

Mike Southard looked at the weather forecast on Friday and decided that the possibility of bad weather early next week made work on Saturday and Sunday the right way to stay on schedule. We appreciate the consideration of the Provost Marshal and the residents who did not get away this weekend. Thanks.

Progress Report: November 21, 2007

2007-11-23T18:32:00.000-08:00

Today’s Activities

Portion of drain tile installed.
Footer course for retaining wall installed.
Geogrid installed as necessary.
Several courses of retaining wall installed.
Electrical conduit installed under retaining wall.
Several courses of block installed for fireplace footer.
Fencing placed around trees and light poles in construction area, per DPW suggestion.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

No work until Monday. Happy Thanksgiving!

Safety Concerns Today

Added stone to haul route as it was wearing badly with all the machines going back and forth. This will help prevent unnecessary erosion and keep the mud to a minimum.
Lots of families and children around. Please make sure no one enters the work site and children remain supervised at all times. Everyone likes a good pile of dirt. Thanks for the cooperation.

Material Deliveries

Nothing scheduled over Thanksgiving weekend. Wall block, clean stone and crushed stone scheduled Monday.

Comments

Please remind everyone that the playground is open and will stay open during the entire construction process. All families and children are welcome there—PLAYGROUND IS NOT ON WORK SITE.
Great progress in short work week. A couple of days of great weather, a hardworking crew, constructive advice from the WRAMC project manager and DPW team, safety and environmental personnel, and the wounded warriors and their families staying at Mologne House, Delano Hall, and the Fisher Houses.

Progress Report: November 20, 2007

2007-11-20T20:28:00.000-08:00

Today's Activities

Tree stumps in upper patio area removed. Stump areas compacted, covered with separation fabric and filled with clean stone.
Temporary sidewalk from upper level entrance/exit installed and operational.
Excess dirt in upper patio area removed and retained for use in lower patio area.
Concrete poured for fireplace footer in upper patio.
All footers dug for retaining walls in upper patio.
Install additional silt fence as recommended by Environmental Office and DPW.
Trenches for drain tile excavated and separation fabric installed.

Tomorrow’s Planned Activities

Install 6” perforated drain pipe for drainage system.
Install clean stone around drain pipe.
Wrap drain system with separation fabric.
Install stone for wall footer.
Begin installing base block for wall footer.

Current Safety Concerns

Ability of temporary sidewalk to handle all types of pedestrian traffic (even the heaviest wheelchair) was verified with assistance from residents. After two small adjustments, it is holding up well and appears not to be an impediment of any kind.
Plastic safety caps were placed on top ends of rebar holding safety fence along all active walkways.
End of drive/ramp to staging area—fence needs to be closed after vehicles enter/exit.
Measured width of sidewalk between Main Drive and material staging area safety fence to assure that it exceeds minimum limit of 5 feet—exceeded standard by one foot (6 feet separation).
Mud at equipment crossings of active walks—workers to scrape excess and sweep same once per hour.
Updated notices were posted throughout the hotel. Many from yesterday were missing.

Comments

Guests asking lots of questions about the project. Lots of interest and excitement. Concept drawing and site map should be put on big board in lobby, if possible.
Favorable reports received from Safety Office, Environmental Office and DPW. Thanks to our workers for doing an excellent job.
Many thanks to SPC John Williams, a hotel guest with many years experience in landscaping, for great insight on the temporary sidewalk and other safety/access issues.

Site Photos

Progress Report: November 19, 2007

2007-11-19T19:12:00.000-08:00

Today's Activities

Equipment & trailer staging complete. Safety & procedural meeting conducted w/all employees. Safety fence installed. Warning/notice signs put up throughout the hotel. Layout of patio completed. Tree/stump removal completed. Excavation of fireplace footer completed, rebar reinforcement installed. Excavation of wall footer started.

Tomorrow's Planned Activities

Install temporary sidewalk from 2nd level exit/entrance around construction site. Continue w/wall footer excavation. Pour concrete for fireplace footer. Begin to install wall footer (crushed stone). Begin to install drain tile around patio.

Safety Concerns

Safety procedures in place seem to be working well and all residents are complying. Positive feedback received. Reviewed temporary sidewalk w/residents and got feedback on same. Compacted stone dust appears to be the solution and will not interfere w/wheelchairs, walkers, canes or crutches as long as it drains in a positive fashion. Contractor provided excellent spotting for all equipment and flagmen for all delivery trucks.

Material Deliveries Made

2-4 stone deliveries in Ernest Maier dump trucks. Concrete delivery in Ernest Maier ready mix concrete truck. Block delivery in Ernest Maier flat bed truck w/forklift.

Comments

Fantastic cooperation from the security staff, hotel staff and residents. Slow start to the day because of weather and traffic but contractor was able to get caught up and back on schedule.

Progress Report: November 18, 2007

2007-11-19T18:57:00.000-08:00

We have the following activities planned for November 19, 2007:

Equipment & material deliveries.
Material staging.
Install safety fencing and temporary sidewalks.
Tree removal. Layout of patios.
Excavation may start, depending on overall progress.

Deliveries scheduled:

Contractor equipment and trailers between about 0700 and 0800.
Small pick up truck w/miscellaneous safety items between about 0730 and 0830.
Small flat bed truck w/drainage products, rebar, etc., between about 1000 and 1200.
Tri axle dump truck w/crushed stone between about 1000 and 1200.
Tri axle dump truck w/clean stone between 1300 and 1500.

Current Safety Concerns:

Be aware of delivery vehicles when walking or driving between Mologne House and the gym.
Be aware of construction equipment moving in the Mologne House Courtyard (rear of building).
Please abide by safety/flag men when walking or driving in any of the construction areas.
Please do not enter the marked construction or material staging areas for any reason.
Breezeway exit to Courtyard/temporary ramp will be closed during tree removal from approximately 0800 until 1300. Exit from 2nd level will remain open as will breezeway entrance/exit to parking lot (front of building). The breezeway itself will remain open the entire time.
Portion of the sidewalk from 2nd level exit to the courtyard will be closed after tree removal is complete until the end of work for the day. A temporary sidewalk will be available in that area at all times. The permanent walk will remain open during all non construction hours (approximately 1800 to 0730 next day).
Please be aware of, and follow, the numerous safety signs, fencing and cones throughout the area.

Welcome to the Yellow Ribbon Fund Mologne House Courtyard Program Blog

2007-11-18T13:05:00.000-08:00

A special welcome to all wounded warriors and other patients, and their families, resident at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and to the wonderful medical, military and civilian staff that care for them. We are very eager to hear from you, as we proceed through the construction in your living and working space.

The Mologne House Courtyard Program started the same way as all the Yellow Ribbon Fund programs started: meeting the needs of injured service members that are not met by others. The soldiers and their families talked about enjoying barbeques, playing with their children and just being outdoors with each other. Some energetic young businessmen, Yellow Ribbon Fund volunteers visiting Walter Reed, saw a beautiful opportunity for better outdoor living and decided to do something about it.

Click picture for full-sized image.

Excavation and construction began Monday November 19, 2007. Weather permitting, we will work all day, to get the program done as soon as possible. Please go to our blog to get the latest information on our construction schedule, on access to the Courtyard, and on our progress. We do not expect to complete the entire program until April, 2008, and we will do the work in phases to keep interference in daily living to a minimum.

Click picture for full-sized image.

This is how an artist sees our plans to make the Courtyard behind the Mologne House into a great outdoor living area. There will be two lower patios on the left, close to the building, one with a trellis covered sitting area, and a third new upper patio on the far side. We have already completed a new playground, at the lower part of the drawing. There will be a beautiful new Rose Mologne Gazebo, named for General Lewis A. Mologne’s widow. Finally the Walk of Appreciation, a ramped, wheelchair accessible walkway, will ease the trip from Mologne House through the Courtyard toward the hospital.

Click picture for full-sized image.