July 2009 udate

We have nearly finished the modifications to the modular building that we got from Cayucos Elementary School. A little more plumbing work, rain gutters, and a paint job are the main things left to do. Once we complete this work, we plan to conduct a workshop there with some of our key supporters and advisers to try to iron out how to get the main construction project back on track.

Currently, the main building project languishes half done without a clear path to financing. We plan to make inquiries with a local bank over the next couple of weeks to see what is possible in this abysmal market. We are not sure at this point if there is a workable path through the maze of traditional options, so we are also trying to find a more creative solution. We have been stuck on high center with this problem for over a year now, and are a little too close to it to see clearly. This weekend we showed the project to friends, one of whom suggested that we should go away for a couple of weeks to clear our heads. Clear, fresh thinking is definitely in order, so if you have any ideas, we are all ears.

Progress!

Earlier this week we got approval from the county to add a 1/2 bath, windows, and an 8 foot door to the modular.

And today PG&E connected the power at Windhook!

We are looking at alternative construction methods for the main building, and the one that has piqued our interest is this one. This is a system approved for use in San Luis Obispo County, and it would be a simple matter to submit the change from conventional framing to the county. The overall cost of this system is significantly lower and the insulating qualities are outstanding. Installation is relatively simple and requires a minimal amount of skilled labor. This is not a done deal yet, but looks very promising.

Utilities, etc.

Here are the latest developments at Windhook.

• We have passed all our inspections to get electricity connected, and are waiting for the PG&E line crew to schedule installation of the meter. That should happen within the next two or three weeks.
• The modular came with a complete wiring system and only needs to be connected at the breaker panel, once we get a meter.
• We are currently working on plans to submit to the county to add a window, a door, and a half bath to the modular. Once all this work is done, we will have a functional wood shop and art studio at Windhook!
• Construction on the primary structures, both house and studio, are on hold while we wait for the market and our construction fund to recover.
• We have planted a dozen assorted varieties of citrus trees in memory of Michael's mother, Joni Reddell, who died of cancer and Alzheimer's complications on October 12. Included are:

Bergamot Orange
Moro Blood Orange
Austrailian Finger Lime
Kafir Lime
Yuzu
Improved Meyers Lemon
Eureka Lemon
Satsuma Mandarin
Clementine Mandarin

• The weather has been unseasonably warm and dry. We have only had about 8 inches of rain so far, which is about 1/3-1/4 of normal. We are expecting rain toward the end of this week, but not enough to catch up. It is shaping up to be a serious drought.