Author: lukebowerman

Spring is here, the tulips are blooming, and summer is right around the corner! It’s time to start planning the Eastside Neighborhood summer picnic. The picnic will be in Lions Park on August 18th. It’s a great event for adults and kids and a chance to get to know your neighbors.

Do you have a band or know of a great band that might be willing to play for part of it? Do you have suggestions for games or activities? Do you make a mean potato salad that you’re willing to bring? Any other great ideas?

Get involved and send your ideas to pr*******@ea**************.org or call (360) 570-0947.

Doug Drainville, Pastor of Ministry Development – The renovation of our new facility is going well. The fire sprinklers are currently being installed and should be completed in April. To our surprise the heating system is intact, with only a new fuel-efficient boiler and a few other repairs needed. The offices are being completely revamped and should be complete near the end of April.

We discovered to our dismay that the the large gym floor was asphalt instead of concrete. It allowed moisture to come up through it so we broke it all up and moved all 42+ tons out with wheelbarrows to be recycled! We have a brand new concrete floor with built-in radiant heating.

We’re also working on the burglar system, replacing the pod windows, and putting in a pervious asphalt parking lot. Then we can get to landscaping and other finishing work.

Our goal for our first regular service is October 7, and of course, everyone from the neighborhood is invited.

Where are you from?
Elaine – Born and raised in Altadena, CA; I lived in Tacoma for 10 years before moving to Olympia.
Chad – Grew up in Pierce County. I’ve lived in Tacoma and in other parts of Olympia over the years.

Describe yourselves
We live with our three cats in a 1970s house that is our ongoing project. We both enjoy cycling; Elaine gets in 10 miles most weekdays. We’re also both very interested in the social uses of computers, Chad with wifi and Elaine with blogging. We’ve lived in the eastside for about 4 1/2 years.

Favorite things about the eastside:
The mix of houses, beautiful and creative gardens, and all the different kinds of people. It’s close to downtown, so there are plenty of amenities in cycling distance.
Why are you involved with the ENA?
We are both interested in getting to know more neighbors and in improving the place we love.  This year, Chad wants to work on making the Madison Scenic Park better, and Elaine wants to make the newsletter more engaging and interesting.  (Suggestions welcome!)