After seven months of renovation work by the volunteer building and grounds committee, the kitchen is again open. The renovation included a top to bottom remodel that includes a new floor and covered walls. Electric, plumbing, septic and fire suppression systems have been brought to code standards. Overhead LED lighting brightens the new stainless-steel sinks and workspaces with a bay window looking out to the outside greenspace, highlighting an impressive achievement.
The project came in under the $40,000 budget thanks to the volunteer “Kitchen Crew,” a dedicated and skilled team. Kudos go out to those working daily, including Bob Yoder, Bruce Wachtel, Henry Weems, Joe Centofante, Scott Duncan, Gifford Childs and Andrew Crane. Several other volunteers assisted with painting and occasional help as needed. Some professional skills were required, and Heidi Cochran tackled the challenging electrical system.
Funding for the project became known as “Enrichin’ the Kitchen,” led by Stu Mills, RVCC executive director. A $20,000 matching grant from the Perry Foundation anchored financing of the project, with contributors including the Community Foundation of the Blue Ridge, the Schaeneman Foundation, and $13,000 of private donations.
The new tenant for the workspace is Halal Kitchen, soon offering Indian and Mediterranean lunches. After a long hiatus while the kitchen was under construction, Community Pancake Breakfasts returned October 5 and will continue monthly on the first Saturday.
New in November
The 13th annual indoor Winter Markets is back on the first Saturday of every month through April 2020. The event brings local farm offerings of produce, meats, cheese, jams with fresh bakery selections and artistic creations. December will offer two Saturdays, with the second date to include a holiday focus. Live music is part of every market scene from 9 a.m. to noon, with a different artist each month.
On Saturday, November 9, the annual gala fundraiser evening known as “Rockfish Nights” will offer a special evening. Dinner will be a unique experience named “Duos Do Dinner.” After the popularity of last year’s “Men Who Cook,” the chefs’ hats and aprons will be shared by couples who can spark together in the kitchen. Over a dozen culinary combinations will be offered. Live music by the Eric Knutson Band is expected to bring out the dancers and a silent auction of selected unique artist selections is offered to boost the fundraising goals.
Tickets are available in the Treasure Chest and online at www.rockfishcc.org. The annual event is the biggest fundraiser held to benefit the non-profit RVCC.
New Lighting at RVCC Extends Hours for Outdoor Play
A small group of skilled volunteers including Gifford Childs, Bob Yoder, Henry Weems, Scott Duncan and Charlie Hickox focused an October weekend on lighting up the outdoor spaces to extend the hours of play. LED lighting was installed at the skate ramp, the basketball court and the nearby parking lot. Lights are controlled in 3 separate areas by timers and photosensitive cells.
