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For my project I chose to renovate the gazebo at The New York Armenian Home in Flushing, NY. I chose this project because my grandfather had been a resident there for many years. I already had several hours of community service, helping my father who is an Attending Physician there. In addition to the main building they own a large tract of land behind it, in the center of which the gazebo remained in ever worsening condition.
I had noticed its deplorable condition during the beginning of my search for an Eagle project. I thought it would be a quick, easy project that would be over with in a few weeks. I have never been so wrong in my life.
The project started with surveying the gazebo with carpenter Alan Artinian, to get an idea of what we were getting into. He explained to me all the materials that we would require to complete the project. To raise money I sent out letters to the NYAH’s mailing list, asking for donations. In addition to the members’ donations I received a $500 discount at The Home Depot, courtesy of Mr. Anthony Falcone. In the end I raised almost three times the amount needed. Any money that was left over was donated back to the home.
We met every other week for almost three months. Both the weather and time was not on my side, as the project had to be finished before winter. Our first day we met we spent taking down the roof. We spent the next 4 sessions getting the power washing done, as we had to clean every square inch of the gazebo. After the washing was done, my project was completely turned on its head. We realized that the gazebo was actually made from cedar wood. So instead of painting it, we returned the paint for a clear sealant, to preserve the wood’s natural gold color. We also had to return the shingles for a color that would match the wood. I believe this was for the better as the natural color is simply beautiful. From then on all we had to do was replace the roof. With help of professional roofer Brian Riordan we were able to finish the roof and the project in just three more days.
Looking at pictures of the gazebo from before and after it has really shown me how a little effort can go a long way, and that all your hard work is worth it in the end.
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