Blazer Development reports progress at the Raphael House of Portland

By: Rick Lesniak, Blazer Development, Inc.  - Home Builders Foundation Director & Raphael House Builder Captain Lead.Raphael House Update: Renovation is now underway at Portland’s largest domestic violence shelter. Blazer Development (Rick Lesniak) and Touchstone Townhomes, LLC (Jim Standring) are building a Comprehensive Advocacy Center from a 5,000 square foot unfinished attic space. The Advocacy Center will allow residents better access to vital services during their stay and allow non-resident survivors to have access to the services they were once unable to receive.Progress made: Project broke ground in mid-September.  Skylights and windows have been installed (Milgard Windows donated 100% of materials).  Concrete is cut and foundation is poured (Brother Concrete Cutting & TC Concrete made a substantial donations of labor and materials).  Footings & framing complete for elevator and new entry walls complete (Voss Framing made a substantial donation of labor and lumber package).  Ready for plumbing and HVAC.  Electrical work and upgrades started the week of Nov. 24, also bringing service to second floor attic space.  Heating upgrades, and installation has expanded to both floors.  Medallion Industries has committed todonations for doors and millwork package.  Special thanks to all involved.Next Steps: Working to find insulation installation & finish carpentry. Grand Opening ceremony tentatively set for March 2009.