Committee 150

Community fortifies a landmark church

2007-07-18T15:16:00.001-04:00

$150,000 raised to preserve St. Joseph's for alternative use

By TIM O'BRIEN,
Times Union Staff writer
First published Thursday, July 12, 2007

ALBANY -- The pews are long gone, the stained-glass windows are missing paint, and Mass has not been held there in 14 years.

But the mood is still celebratory at St. Joseph's Church, the empty building whose towering steeple is an Albany landmark. Citizens, organized as Committee 150, are celebrating that they've reached their goal of raising $150,000 to stabilize, and thus save, the building.

"We don't know ultimately how the building will be used," said Colleen Ryan, who co-founded Committee 150 with Elizabeth Griffin. "We just want to make sure the building remains standing until someone comes along with a good idea."

In 1994, the Albany Diocese closed the church, saying there were not enough parishioners to keep it open, but preservationists don't want to lose such a central feature of the neighborhood.

"The Ten Broeck Triangle would be totally and completely different without this jewel in the middle of it," Assemblyman Jack McEneny, D-Albany, said at the reception to celebrate the effort. "This magnificent structure once held 1,000 individuals, and you had to get here at 11 p.m. to get a seat for midnight Mass."

In 2001, Mayor Jerry Jennings had the property seized from its then-owner, a local businesswoman who bought the church from the diocese and planned to turn it into a banquet hall. The Historic Albany Foundation, which now owns the former church, received a $300,000 state grant in 2003 for repairs, but it needed to raise a matching amount.

The foundation raised some money on its own, leaving about a $60,000 shortfall.

Susan Holland, the foundation's executive director, praised the efforts of Committee 150.

"It's wonderful they were able to engage over 1,100 people in this community to give money to this site," she said.

Investment counselor Candace King Weir, owner of C.L. King & Associates, donated $50,000, pledging to give $1 for every $2 raised.

"I have a great love of historic preservation," she said. "I've always admired St. Joseph's. How can you not support this? We don't have that many really special buildings in this area."

A new roof has been built and repairs made to the masonry by the entrance. A support column in danger of collapse also was fixed.

"This column had actually failed, and the roof had dropped two feet," Ryan said.

The Historic Albany Foundation took on the work because St. Joseph's is such an important piece of architecture, Holland said.

"It is an integral part of the skyline of Albany," she said. "You can see it from any direction."

The foundation plans to conduct a feasibility study to determine how much money it would take to restore the church for another use. It does not intend to reopen the building itself.

"Our hope is that by putting together a tool kit for restoration, we could get it ready for somebody," she said.

Peg Breen, president of the New York Landmarks Conservancy and a past president of the Historic Albany Foundation, praised the efforts during the reception.

"Your ingenuity in doing this is really inspiring," she said. "You are not alone. There are other communities that are trying to save their churches but you are rare. ... Most nonprofits are working with active churches."

In New York City, she said, developers are trying to buy up churches to build high-rise condominiums, and parishioners are fighting to save St. Brigid's Catholic Church in New York City from being closed.

Like St. Joseph's and Albany's Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, that church was designed by famed architect Patrick Keely. A native of Ireland, Keely designed hundreds of churches in the United States.

Committee 150's efforts could be an inspiration to others, Breen said.

"You should take this on the road," she said. "Losing religious structures diminishes us all."

All these efforts, however, are just to keep the building from deteriorating. It doesn't begin to restore St. Joseph's for future use.

"It's not like it stops there," Ryan said.

Tim O'Brien can be reached at 454-5092 or by e-mail at tobrien@timesunion.com.

Cheers to Committee 150!

2007-07-05T22:23:00.000-04:00

Remarks at St. Joseph’s Church by Colleen Ryan
June 28, 2007

It’s hard to believe that one year ago, Committee 150 was just an idea.

St. Joseph’s Church is one of Albany’s great landmarks. This building – begun in 1856 – defines the neighborhood in which it stands, and its steeple – added in 1906 – is the most visible element in Albany’s northern skyline.

Situated near the eighteenth-century Ten Broeck Mansion, and in the center of the National Register-listed Ten Broeck Triangle Historic District, this building’s architectural merits are not in question.

Still, just a few years ago, St. Joseph’s future was uncertain.

~~~

Shortly after taking ownership of the building in 2003, Historic Albany Foundation convened a series of public meetings in buildings near the church to discuss the potential for re-use.

The St. Joseph’s Re-Use Committee, chaired by Matt Bender, documented suggestions including a public library branch; a computer facility; a history museum focusing on the immigrant experience or the Underground Railroad; a school for restoration technology; or an urban education institute in conjunction with a local college.

The first priority, however, was to stabilize the building and prevent further damage.

~~~

Last spring, Elizabeth Griffin came to me with an ambitious idea: to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone of St. Joseph’s Church by raising $150,000. In May, 2006, you pledged your support to Committee 150, and together, we set out to do just that.

As of this date, Committee 150 has raised $150,151.

Many people said it couldn’t be done … And it wouldn’t have happened without a generous leadership grant of $50,000 from Mrs. Candace King Weir. Her commitment during the quiet phase of this campaign allowed us to issue a challenge to potential Committee 150 members … that each two dollars they raised or contributed would be matched by $1 from Mrs. Weir.

Thank you, Mrs. Weir, for believing in us and helping us meet our goal.

~~~

Special thanks are also due to Mayor Gerald Jennings and the City of Albany, for ensuring that St. Joseph’s remained standing long enough for us to work on saving it!

Late in 2001, Mayor Jennings authorized emergency stabilization work, and seized the building from the owners who had failed to make repairs. We all owe the city a debt of gratitude for recognizing the significance of this building, and for taking steps to ensure its survival.

The Mayor was here earlier, and while his busy schedule prevented him from staying for tonight’s program, I hope you will thank him when you see him.

~~~

We are grateful also to the corporate sponsors who made tonight’s celebration possible, in more ways than one. In addition to underwriting the cost of tonight’s event, these organizations have done the stabilization work that allows us to stand in this building right now.

Please join me in thanking

All-American Masonry, Inc.
Klepper, Hahn & Hyatt
Mid-State Industries, Ltd.
Reeves Engineering
Safway Services, Inc.
John G. Waite, Associates and
Western Building Restoration.

~~~

Let’s also give a round of applause to two local business owners whose generosity to this and other neighborhood causes is simply unmatched – Chuck Kuhtic from the Morgan State House and Brad Junco from Capital Wine & Spirits.

~~~

I would like to sincerely thank Committee 150 co-founder, Elizabeth Griffin, and the other members of the steering committee, Bill Brandow, Chuck Kuhtic, Mac Mowbray, and Erin Tobin, for their commitment to seeing this project through. Each brought their own particular brand of energy, enthusiasm, and expertise to this cause – and each makes this neighborhood, and this city, a better place to live through their good efforts.

I should also offer a special thank you to our spouses, partners and friends who supported us in this effort and attended innumerable parties with us … I promise, after tonight, we’re done!!!

~~~

Last – but certainly not least – we would like to thank each of you, the members of Committee 150. You truly rose to the challenge issued in 2002 by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and helped match their $300,000 stabilization grant to Historic Albany Foundation.

And if imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, we should all blush to learn that several additional parties are planned in coming months to raise the final portion of the match.

~~~

Committee 150 set out to raise funds, raise awareness, and imagine the possibilities for re-use of this magnificent historic and cultural resource. But along the way, Committee 150 has grown into a much broader effort, and created a core group of stakeholders who are committed to protecting St. Joseph’s church and the unique and irreplaceable historic fabric of the City of Albany.

Ultimately, Committee 150’s many achievements would not have been possible without you. Whether you made a donation or organized a party, we have you to thank for the critically-needed stabilization of the roof and masonry of this building. You have sent a message – loud and clear – that we owe it to future generations to invest in and rescue our old, abandoned buildings.

Thank you all for helping to ensure that St. Joseph’s will continue to stand as a beacon of hope, and a symbol of what people can achieve when they work together.

Now, please join me in a truly heartfelt toast …

Cheers to Committee 150!

Committee 150 Wins "Sense of Place" Award

2007-05-07T14:20:00.001-04:00

Whether they hosted a fundraiser, went to several parties, or purchased a single raffle ticket, Committee 150 supporters were honored at the Albany History Fair on Sunday, May 6 with a Sense of Place Award.

"We were delighted to learn that Committee 150's grassroots initiative to raise funds, raise awareness and imagine the possibilities for the former St. Joseph's Church was recognized for contributing to Albany's unique Sense of Place," said Colleen Ryan, Committee 150 co-founder. "Over 1,100 people pitched in, and together, we've raised nearly $150,000."

Photo: Left to Right --
Committee 150 steering committee members Mac Mowbray, Colleen Ryan and Chuck Kuhtic. (Steering Committee members not pictured: Bill Brandow, Elizabeth Griffin and Erin Tobin.)

We're Honored!

2007-04-30T14:47:00.000-04:00

Committee 150 to receive "Sense of Place" Award
at 8th Annual Albany History Fair

ALBANY, N.Y. – The 8th Annual Albany History Fair will feature music, tours, displays and activities for the entire family from 12 noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 6, at the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center at Quackenbush Square, corner of Broadway and Clinton Avenue in downtown Albany.

This year's theme is Paw Print on History: The Impact of Animals and Pets on Albany’s Past.

“Important to both Albany’s past and present are the animals that have made an impact on our skyline, architecture and daily lives,” said Michele Vennard, President and CEO of the Albany County Convention and Visitors Bureau (ACCVB), which operates the Visitors Center. Admission to the Fair is free and the public is invited. Free parking is available off Broadway via Spencer Street.

The 2007 History Fair celebrates Albany’s animals in many ways:

Fur, Feathers and Feet: a downtown walking tour with Tony Opalka, local historic preservationist, explores the use of animals in architectural design and street layout;
Kids’ Corner: with “Dog Tales and Other Stories” about famous Albany animals; a scavenger hunt for families; animal crafts and games; live sheep; an appearance by the Albany Aqua Ducks’ mascot, Alfalfa, and hands-on activities, presented by the Albany County 4-H;
Farm animals from Indian Ladder Farms;
Exhibits, such as “Albany’s Bunnie States of America” from Historic Cherry Hill, which was home to not only five generations of the Van Rensselaer family, but also to a menagerie of animals and pets throughout its 200-year history;
Displays by local historical and cultural organizations;
Selected works by fine art instructor Blue Lake Hawk; and
The FireFlies performing traditional dance music from the 18th and 19th centuries.

The History Fair will also feature special musical guest Dave Ruch. Equal parts historian, entertainer, educator, comedian and folklorist, Ruch brings musical gems to life in a most entertaining style. His performance is made possible through Speakers in the Humanities, a program of the New York Council for the Humanities, a state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Within walking distance of the Visitors Center, the Ten Broeck Mansion will have a variety of displays and activities throughout the afternoon during its “Living History Day.” St. Joseph’s Church will also be open to the public during the afternoon.

As part of the History Fair, the 5th Annual Sense of Place Awards will be presented, honoring and celebrating the historic treasures, people, places, events ... and animals ... that make Albany unique.

The 2007 honorees are:

Committee 150 for its grassroots role in saving one of Albany's great landmarks -- St. Joseph's Church;
Hartgen Archeological Associates for its role in unearthing, preserving and interpreting those archeological features that make Albany special;
Arnoff Moving & Storage for its role in preserving an Albany icon, Nipper; and
The 4-H Program, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Albany County, for its role in preserving Albany's agricultural past.

The 8th Annual History Fair is sponsored by Historic Cherry Hill, Historic Albany Foundation, Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center and the Times Union. For more information, call the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center at 518-434-0405 or visit www.albany.org.

The Albany County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. was established in 1976 to promote the civic and commercial progress of the community through increased development of conventions and tourism. ACCVB currently represents more than 300 member businesses and assists each year in hundreds of regional meetings. ACCVB also operates the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center, Henry Hudson Planetarium and the Albany International Airport Information Center. For more information, call 518-434-1217 or 800-258-3582 and/or visit www.albany.org.

###

"Wine & Delectables" ~ Sunday, 4/15

2007-04-12T12:06:00.000-04:00

Event at Historic Woman’s Club of Albany to Benefit Committee 150

ALBANY, NY – (4/12/2007) – The public is invited to a “wine and delectables” reception at the historic Woman’s Club of Albany (WCA) on Sunday, April 15, from 3 – 5:30 p.m. The event is part of Committee 150’s campaign to raise funds to stabilize the former St. Joseph’s Church in Albany.

Hosted by local artist Lynda Porter, the reception will feature tours of the 1895 Victorian mansion which has served as the Woman’s Club headquarters since 1919. Piano music and a display of rare old photographs of Albany – including some from the archives of the WCA – will round out the afternoon.

The Woman’s Club of Albany is located at 725 Madison Avenue, just west of South Lake Avenue. The suggested donation for the reception is $25. For more information or to RSVP, please call 518-626-0931 or email porter1950@aol.com .

“This is one of the final opportunities people will have to attend a Committee 150 event,” said Colleen Ryan, who co-founded the grassroots effort last year. “To date, Committee 150 has raised over $97,000. This amount has been matched – 50¢ on the dollar – by a generous leadership grant from Mrs. Candace King Weir, bringing our total raised to more than $145,000. With a few more parties scheduled for this spring, we are confident that we will meet our goal.”

A Celebration of Committee 150 is slated for June 28 to officially wrap up the work of the committee. “We are looking forward to celebrating a job well done, and to seeing the work that's been done to help St. Joseph's keep its place in the Albany skyline for the next 150 years,” said Ryan.

For more information about Committee 150, or to contribute, visit www.committee150.blogspot.com, or email committee150@verizon.net .

###

Save the Date! Celebrate Committee 150 on 6/28/07

2007-03-27T17:25:00.000-04:00

Dear Fellow Committee 150 Member:

It’s hard to believe that one year ago this month, Committee 150 was just an idea.

St. Joseph’s is one of Albany’s great landmarks. The building defines the neighborhood in which it stands, and its steeple, completed in 1906, is the most visible element in Albany’s northern skyline. Still, a few years ago, St. Joseph’s future was uncertain.

In May, 2006, you pledged your support to an all-volunteer group that set out to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone of St. Joseph’s Church by raising $150,000. Committee 150 took up the challenge issued in 2002 by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, which awarded a $300,000 matching grant to the building’s owner, Historic Albany Foundation, to stabilize St. Joseph’s, which at that time was in danger of collapse.

Thanks to you, Committee 150 has raised over $96,000. This has been matched – 50¢ on the dollar – by a generous leadership grant from Mrs. Candace King Weir, bringing the total raised to date to $144,000. With a few more parties scheduled for this spring, we are confident that we will meet our goal!

Throughout the past year, people have contributed their time, talent and treasure to ensure that the spires of the former St. Joseph’s Church continue to stand tall over Albany’s north end. From a Splashdown for St. Joe’s on the Albany Aquaduck, to an old-fashioned neighborhood picnic – from a raffle to a “virtual tour” of the church – Committee 150 members have raised funds one party at a time, and had fun doing it!

To thank you for your support, we’d like to invite you to join us as an honored guest at a Celebration of Committee 150 on Thursday, June 28, from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. in St. Joseph’s Park.

We hope you’ll save the date, join us as we celebrate a job well done, and view the results of the stabilization effort. (We’ll send a reminder as the date draws near.)

Thank you again for helping to make Committee 150 a great success!

Sincerely,
The Committee 150 Steering Committee

PS: Please make plans to attend the 8th Annual Albany History Fair on Sunday, May 6, from noon – 4 p.m. at the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center. Committee 150 will be honored with a “Sense of Place” award for our grassroots effort to save St. Joseph’s Church. Every one of over 1,100 people who supported this campaign also contributed to Albany’s sense of place, and we’re delighted that the entire group will be recognized with this award!

St. Joseph’s campaign nearing goal

2007-02-05T10:33:00.000-05:00

A year after a windstorm took a chunk out of a back tower of historic St. Joseph’s Church in Albany, its supporters – led by Committee 150 – are close to a fundraising goal of $150,000 for repairs.

The money will go toward an interior stabilization project and repairs to the church on Ten Broeck and Second streets in the Arbor Hill neighborhood.

Committee 150 launched its citizens’ campaign last May, setting out to raise $150,000 in recognition of the 150th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone in May, 1856, committee co-founder Colleen Ryan said Friday.

“We have over $95,000 right now and with a couple of parties to within the next few weeks, we should hit $150,000 by the end of March,” Ryan said.

Funds were raised through 33 parties hosted by the committee and drawing more than 1,000 people, she said.

The committee plans a wrap-up party in June in the park next to the church – the centerpiece of the Ten Broeck Triangle.

Organizers will recognize investment counselor Candace King Weir, owner of C.L. King & Associates, who through a grant is matching each $2 raised with an additional $1, Ryan said.

The church was abandoned in 1993, and with bad winters and no heat, water damaged the roof and other areas. In February 2006, a windstorm ripped off a chunk from a tower in the back.

The slate roofs and copper detailing on the rear towers will be repaired so that architectural feature is not lost, said Erin Tobin, Committee 150 steering committee member and former director of Preservation Services for Historic Albany Foundation.

“Details such as these contribute greatly to the overall character of the building, making it a real asset to the community,” Tobin said in a statement.

Historic Albany had raised $100,000, “when Committee 150 came along and we said we would raise $150,000,” Ryan said. Historic Albany needs another $50,000 to meet its goal.

The combined funds, $300,000, are eligible for a $1-for$1 match from the State Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. The $600,000 will be poured into stabilizing and restoring the church, Ryan said. Her committee co-founder is Elizabeth Griffin.

-- Carol DeMare
Times Union
FOLLOW-UP ON THE NEWS
Sunday, Feb. 4, 2007

$95K raised to help restore historic Arbor Hill church

2007-01-30T13:21:00.000-05:00

The Business Review (Albany) - 12:53 PM EST Tuesday

A grassroots fund-raising effort to save the historic St. Joseph's Church in Albany, N.Y., has collected more than $95,000, nearly fulfilling the $100,000 goal that organizers set when they launched the campaign just eight months ago.

"We were really surprised and pleased with the enthusiasm with which people signed on," said Elizabeth Griffin, an historic preservationist who spearheaded a group called Committee 150 that hosted fund-raisers. "They really enjoy the idea of having a party as opposed to just direct giving and to have an opportunity to let their friends, family and neighbors know about the building."

Griffin, former executive director of the Historic Albany Foundation, came up with the idea to mark the 150th anniversary of the laying of the church cornerstone in 1856. Located in Ten Broeck Triangle in the city's Arbor Hill neighborhood, the former Roman Catholic church has deteriorated since the last service was held there in 1993.

The city of Albany paid for emergency repairs after taking title to the property and then transferred ownership in June 2003 to the Historic Albany Foundation.

Under the terms of a $300,000 grant from the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the Historic Albany Foundation can be reimbursed dollar-for-dollar for work, which means a total of $600,000 could be spent, Griffin said.

Committee 150 expects to raise a total of $150,000 because Candace King Weir, an investment counselor and owner of C.L. King & Associates in Albany, has pledged $1 for every $2 that the committee brings in.

With that $150,000 in hand, plus $100,000 previously raised by Historic Albany Foundation, organizers are zeroing in on their target of $300,000. Historic Albany Foundation will be launching a new campaign to raise the final $50,000.

Stabilization work has already been done to prevent the church from collapsing. The next phase will fix the roof, flashing and masonry. The repairs are meant to shore up the building and prevent further deterioration while a new owner is sought.

There have been various suggestions as to what the church should ultimately become, such as a banquet facility or museum.

"We want to provide a sound building so an investor could come in and re-use that space," said Colleen Ryan, co-founder of Committee 150.

In the meantime, the church continues to suffer from the elements. A windstorm in February 2006 tore slate and sheathing from a section of the northern rear tower, exposing previously unseen roof damage.

A June party is being planned on the grounds of the church to celebrate the work done by Committee 150 and its benefactors.

Committee 150 Counts Down ...

2006-12-28T11:14:00.000-05:00

Less than $7,000 to go!

Since May, the Committee 150 steering committee has been both humbled and inspired by the generosity of friends and strangers.

From near and far, people have contributed their time, talent and treasure to ensure that the spires of the former St. Joseph's Church continue to stand tall over Albany's north end.

2006 -- the 150th anniversary year of the laying of the cornerstone for St. Joseph's -- is drawing to a close. Committee 150 is calling on everyone who joined us this spring to fulfill his or her pledge to the stabilization project -- by setting a date for a party or making a personal contribution of $1,000.

We will be making a press announcement soon, and planning the wrap-up party to celebrate Committee 150's achievements, and we want to make sure that everyone who played a leadership role in this effort receives recognition.

Please leave voice mail at 518-462-1900 with a date for your Committee 150 party, or send your contribution to Historic Albany Foundation at 472 Madison Avenue, Albany, NY 12208. (Please write Committee 150 in the memo line to ensure your donation is processed correctly.)

On behalf of Bill, Elizabeth, Chuck, Mac and Erin, thank you for supporting Committee 150, and best wishes for a happy and prosperous 2007.

Cheers,
Colleen

15% Remains for Committee 150!

2006-12-13T16:14:00.000-05:00

Five years ago this week, St. Joseph's Church was in real danger of collapse. However, thanks to the leadership and vision of the City of Albany and Historic Albany Foundation, its spires still reach skyward.

And thanks to all of you who have joined Committee 150 as volunteer fundraisers, as of Wednesday, December 13, we have raised more than $84,000 for the stabilization of the church.

If you haven't made a donation yet, it's not too late to join us. Committee 150 still has several parties coming up: A "Patsy Cline" Party at Liz's (12/16); Frances & Mike’s Open House (12/17); Kim & Jack’s Open House (12/17); and Elizabeth & Chuck’s Party (12/22). Several individuals and organizations have also joined Committee 150 this month by making a contribution of $1,000.

We urge you to consider making a year-end gift to Committee 150, for only by meeting our goal of $100,000 can we collect the entire $50,000 challenge grant offered by Mrs. Candace King Weir.

Be as generous as you can -- each $2 you give will be matched by $1!

You can use the convenient donation coupon in the Winter 2007 issue of Capital Neighbors (download the PDF here) -- or simply send your donation to:

Historic Albany Foundation
472 Madison Avenue
Albany, NY 12208.

Make your check payable to Historic Albany, but write "C150" in the memo line.

Watch this blog for updates as we near our fundraising goal!

The Final Push!

2006-11-14T13:30:00.000-05:00

As of Monday, November 13, Committee 150 had collected $78,647 of the $100,000 we set out to raise this spring, to assist in the stabilization of the former St. Joseph’s Church. Roof work will begin this month, and we thank you for making that possible!

Since May, Committee 150 members have hosted some 30 parties, events or raffles, and more than 700 people have supported our efforts by making donations. Thanks to the increased visibility of Committee 150, a number of individual gifts have also been secured to offset the $300,000 matching grant provided by the State Historic Preservation Office in 2002.

If you have already had your party or made your contribution, THANK YOU! Please consider this an update …

From a Splashdown for St. Joe’s aboard the Albany Aqua Duck, to a Family Fun Fest with face-painting and a magician, Committee 150 has raised over three-quarters of our goal – now we just need $21,353 to close the books on this effort.

Different things have motivated people to join Committee 150, and we’ve been particularly inspired by people who had never been involved with Historic Albany Foundation before. This is what someone who hosted a party this fall included in her invitation …

Earlier this summer, my friend Diane took me to an Open House at St. Joseph’s Church in downtown Albany and I was awed and saddened by what I saw... This once magnificent structure cries out for help! As a former Architecture student, I’m always fascinated by historic buildings so I decided to see what I could do ... Throughout the summer there have been a series of parties in Albany to raise money to help save this beautiful Albany landmark... and I thought... Well, I can throw a party! So that’s what I’m doing...

Your membership in Committee 150 distinguishes you as a leader in the community, and adds your name to the growing list of those who think Albany’s architectural treasures are worth saving – and who are doing something about it!

Your participation also secures your invitation to the Committee 150 wrap-up party we’re planning, where we’ll recognize and congratulate top donors and fundraisers, and celebrate a job well done.

Committee 150’s success depends on you. If you signed up to be a member of Committee 150 and have not yet set a date for your party or fulfilled your pledge of $1,000, please do so this month.

As we enter the busy holiday season, we’ll be confident that our goal has been met – and ensure that we collect the entire $50,000 challenge grant offered by Candace King Weir. And now that the funds have been allocated for the critical roof work, proceeds raised from this point forward – including the challenge grant – can be used toward both carrying costs (such as insurance and administrative fees) as well as the stabilization effort.

Please set a date for your party soon – the holidays will be here before you know it! If you have any questions or need assistance planning your party, you can leave voice mail at 518-462-1900 or e-mail committee150@verizon.net and one of us will get back to you.

PS: For the most up-to-date information on Committee 150 events, and a running total of our progress toward our $100,000 goal, please visit our blog at www.committee150.blogspot.com .

Hon. John J. McEneny Celebrates St. Joe's

2006-11-06T17:07:00.000-05:00

Please join Marilyn Kaplan & Robert Fullem as they celebrate and support our efforts to stabilize St. Joseph's Church, one of the jewels in the crown of Albany's historic skyline.

The honored guest at this reception is Assemblyman Jack McEneny.

Sunday, November 12
2 - 4 p.m.
Suggested donation is $50

Call 518-459-4422 or email rtfullem@verizon.net to RSVP and for the address.

Matt & Mike's Halloween Party!

2006-10-31T14:42:00.000-05:00

click for more pix

Yes, that's Oksana "The Swan" Baiul -- look carefully in the other photos to see her handy carrying-case for her bottle of vodka ...

Matt "Burrito Boy" Baumgartner & Mike Vinci sure know how to throw a party.

With hundreds of costumed revelers at the Washington Park Lakehouse, they brought in $4,385 for Committee 150! We have now raised more than $70,000 for the stabilization of the former St. Joseph's Church.

Next time you go to Bomber's or Noche, be sure to say "THANKS" to Matt for his support of Committee 150!

Winner's Choice Raffle Dinner

2006-10-29T22:02:00.000-05:00

click the plate for photos ...

Doesn't this look yummy? Baked salmon with sweet potato puree, wilted arugula and israeli couscous? And all for the low, low price of $10!

Chefs and hosts Frances & Mike and Steph & Tom sold $10 tickets all summer long for a "Winner's Choice Raffle" -- and raised more than $2,500 towards the stabilization of the former St. Joseph's Church. The winner was a member of the order of the Sisters of St. Joseph (ironically enough) who bought a chance at an open house at the church, but she declined the party.

Back to the drawing board they went (or back into the fishbowl, as it were) and lo and behold -- the winner was Rich Nagengast!

Rich chose dinner for eight at his hosts' lovely Center Square residence, and feasted on appetizers including baked brie with sundried tomatoes, shrimp cocktail, and encrusted tortellini; followed by a cream of broccoli soup. The salad course was a mixture of field greens with pears and crumbled cheese, and the main course is described above.

Since Mark's birthday is on the 30th, the dessert was a birthday cake!

Happy Birthday, Mark ~ Congratulations, Rich ~ and thanks to Albany's "Cooking Quartet" for a great fundraising event!

Open House at 329 State Street

2006-10-25T11:43:00.000-04:00

Inside 329 State Street

Open House Celebrates Major Rehab of 1889 Bleeker Banks House
Rehab of unique mansion a Renaissance after a troubled past

The McLaughlin Group hosted an Open House to celebrate the final stages of the firm’s rehab of the historic 1889 Bleeker Banks House at 329 State St. in Albany. The event, on October 24th at 5:30 pm, was open to the public.

The event raised $2,400 to benefit Committee 150, a citizens’ campaign to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the former St. Joseph’s Church, and to raise $150,000 to continue stabilization work on the once-endangered building.

The 10,000 square foot Bleecker Banks House is being transformed by The McLaughlin Group into eleven luxurious apartments consisting of studios, one and two bedroom units for lease.

The McLaughlin’s are melding 19th century details along with 21st century amenities. Fireplace mantles have been stripped down to their original splendor and will be retrofitted for electric use. Antiques Fairs, the Historic Albany Foundation Parts Warehouse and antiques stores have been scoured to find period stained glass windows, lighting fixtures and other items dating from the 1880’s. New hardwood floors will replace floors damaged by water leaks and neglect.

Modern amenities include stainless steel appliances, recessed lighting, tiled bathrooms, gas heat, central air, an exercise room, laundry facilities, individual storage areas and private outdoor space for four units.

Millis McLaughlin, Principal of the McLaughlin Group, said “the house was most recently a 19-unit apartment building that was shut down by the city for a number of code violations and was vacant for several years. Significant damage occurred to the structure due to roof leaks and frozen pipes. The building’s past grandeur was long gone. Many original and beautiful details such as the ballroom ceiling and fireplaces hidden behind drywall were discovered during the demolition. We saw a diamond in the rough and decided to take a chance on essentially rebuilding the structure’s interior, to save the building from slow death. Our hope is that this will be a major improvement for the neighborhood and the community.”

Albany Mayor Gerald Jennings said, “the new Re-Capitalize Albany Committee has as a goal the revitalization of city neighborhoods, and this project exemplifies the kind of commitment we need to both attract new residents and continue to enhance neighborhoods. We’re delighted that the McLaughlin Group has made this significant investment and hope it will inspire others to invest in similar ways in our city.”

For more information about the property, call 518-433-1100.

The McLaughlin Group is a family-run enterprise founded by Bill McLaughlin, a State Street resident since 1977. Throughout the last three decades, McLaughlin has renovated over 90 buildings in the Albany area. The firm currently owns and professionally manages apartment buildings in downtown Albany. The McLaughlin Group is committed to preserving the historic fabric of its properties and the local neighborhoods.

History of the Bleeker Banks House

Twice Democratic mayor of Albany, A. Bleecker Banks commissioned this interesting Romanesque Revival double house in 1889 for his daughter, Harriet, and son-in-law, William Lawrence Green. Banks owned the brownstone row next door as well as a house on this lot, so the 1889 work may have represented alterations to the earlier structure. This irregular front façade of rusticated stone links the 1870s row on the right to the 1888-89 Goodwin house on the left. The wrought-iron work adds to the fluidity of the front façade; there is a billowing balcony, and the distinctive latticework is transformed into a bench by the front door. The initials CB can be seen in the gable. The Greens lived here through 1909. In the subsequent decades the building suffered the fate of many old buildings in Albany as it was repeatedly subdivided into smaller and smaller apartments.

As the McLaughlin Group project team began removing the non-bearing walls, plumbing, and kitchen and bath fixtures added to the building to create 19 apartments over the last 50 years, they discovered severe structural problems. Adding steel girders and new floor joists throughout the building raised the level of the 3rd floor by almost 5 inches. The project thus incurred significant cost overruns as the extent of the required rehab became clear.

A real gem discovered during the demolition process was the 13 ‘ high paneled ceiling in the second floor rear ballroom. There was originally no insulation between the ceiling and the roof so the ceiling had been lowered twice, covering the ceiling as well as the upper portion of the beautiful bay window. This large room had been converted to a 2-bedroom apartment and a studio. In the renovated structure the Ballroom is a single apartment of 825 sq. ft. and privacy walls are built at a lower height to preserve the ceiling.

Open House at Restored Mansion - 10/24

2006-10-19T11:29:00.000-04:00

Glory returns to a venerable home
Public is invited to tour restored mansion built by former Albany mayor

By BRIAN NEARING, Staff writer
Wednesday, October 18, 2006

ALBANY -- A 19th-century mansion commissioned for the daughter of a former city mayor was a roach-infested mess when Millis McLaughlin first saw it in 2001. A few months earlier, the city closed it as a dangerous nuisance after finding the landlord rigged dangerous wiring to steal electricity.

It's come a long way since. Now, McLaughlin, whose real estate firm bought it at a tax foreclosure, has even installed her great-grandparents' carved Victorian mantel as part of renovation she will only describe as in excess of $1.5 million.

The doors to 329 State St. will be thrown open to anyone who wants to look inside on Oct. 24 for a small fee to help Committee 150, which is raising cash to help fix up the former St. Joseph's Church in Arbor Hill.

For McLaughlin, the transformation of the building has been a rewarding ordeal. There was opposition from the local neighborhood association, which unsuccessfully sued to return the building to its original two-family status.

That's the way it was in 1889, when A. Bleecker Banks, who had served twice as mayor, decided to have a fine home in the Romanesque Revival style commissioned for his daughter, Harriet, and son-in-law, William Green.

When McLaughlin bought the building in 2001, its glory days were long gone -- there were 19 tiny, decrepit apartments crammed into the 10,000-square-foot building.

Leaks from frozen pipes and holes in the roof had damaged the original hardwood floors beyond repair. Because of rot, the third floor had sunk five inches and had to be raised using steel girders.

Now, there are 11 units, ranging in size from a 500-square-foot studio to a 1,250-square-foot, two-bedroom penthouse with its own roof deck. "It took us almost a year just to finish the demolition," McLaughlin said.

But some long-hidden gems emerged. Like a ballroom with 13-foot ceilings on the second floor, which has been chopped into several apartments. It is now a single apartment, with lower "privacy walls" to show off the ornate ceiling.

"We also found complete fireplaces that had been Sheetrocked over," McLaughlin said.

A member of the board of the Historic Albany Foundation, which advocates for protection of the city's architectural heritage, she also searched for some antique touches to install, like stained glass windows and light fixtures from the foundation's parts warehouse. "The Round Lake antiques fair also was a real treasure trove for me," she said.

The project has gotten kudos from Albany Mayor Jerry Jennings. "This project exemplifies the kind of commitment we need to both attract new residents and continue to enhance neighborhoods," he said. "We hope it will inspire others to invest in similar ways in our city."

More information about the open house is available by calling The McLaughlin Group at 433-1100. The firm was founded by Bill McLaughlin, a State Street resident, and has renovated more than 90 buildings in the Capital Region.

Nearing can be reached at 454-5094 or by e-mail at bnearing@timesunion.com.

Success is in sight!

2006-09-25T11:37:00.000-04:00

Today's estimate puts us at nearly $60,000 in donations, with more than 20 parties or pledges still on the books!

Recent parties have been hosted by Kevin & Sari O'Connor, Joan Marso, and Michael & Margery Whiteman, and upcoming parties include events co-hosted by Anne Older and Matt Bender, Heather Nowicki and Mary Stoll, and Matt Baumgartner's annual Halloween Party.

It is not too late for you to join Committee 150, and to celebrate this campaign's enormous success at our gala wrap-up party in January.

Please call 518-462-1900, or send an e-mail to committee150@verizon.net. Plan a party or pledge $1,000 and we'll add your name to the list of local citizens who are raising money, raising awareness, and imagining the possibilities for Albany's former St. Joseph's Church.

Big photo spread in Times Union today ...

2006-09-13T16:09:00.000-04:00

Work continues on St. Joseph's
Historic Albany holds final fundraising open house of season for old church

Staff reports
First published: Wednesday, September 13, 2006

ALBANY -- On Sunday, the Historic Albany Foundation hosted the final open house of the season at the former St. Joseph's Church.

The church, located at Ten Broeck and Second Streets, is undergoing an interior stabilization project. During the open house visitors were treated to an exhibit about the history of the building and parish and learned about plans for the building's future.

A group called Committee 150 has been holding fundraisers and parties with a goal of raising about $1,000 each time for the Historic Albany Foundation, which is overseeing work at St. Joseph's Church. Its overall goal is to raise $150,000 for renovation work.

In 2003, the city gave the foundation ownership of the 141-year-old neo-Gothic church, which had been closed nearly a decade earlier by the Albany Roman Catholic Diocese. Its roof was in danger of collapse because leaks had rotted a key supporting pillar.

Colleen Ryan, co-founder of Committee 150, said the citizens campaign was organized to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the former St. Joseph's Church, and to raise $150,000 to continue stabilization work on the once-endangered building.

The campaign began in May and is slated to end in the fall.

So far through parties and donations, Committee 150 has raised nearly $50,000. A challenge grant from prominent investment counselor Candace King Weir, owner of C.L. King & Associates Inc., which matches each $2 raised with $1 additional, brings the total to date to nearly $75,000 -- one-half of their goal, organizers said.

For information about the stabilization project at St. Joseph's, contact Erin Tobin Bearden at Historic Albany Foundation at http://www.historic-albany.org or call 465-0876 Ext. 12.

Also, to learn more about Committee 150, or to sign up to plan and host a party, see http://www.committee150. blogspot.com or call 462-1900.

Family Fest raises funds $10 at a time ...

2006-09-10T21:46:00.000-04:00

Click here for pictures!

What a beautiful day for a fun family festival in the park!

Chris & Courtney and Matt & Shannon hosted a wonderful and successful party for Committee 150. With Mr. Bouncety-Bounce, a City of Albany Firetruck, face painting, and hot dogs and hamburgers galore, a good time was had by all!

The best treat of the afternoon was Domino the Great, a magician who had the younger set "under his spell" for the better part of an hour. It was amazing!

Domino donated his talents to help raise money for the stabilization of the former St. Joseph's Church, but you can hire him to add some magic to your little one's next party. He specializes in entertainment for Pre-School and Kindergarten kids, and he was wonderful! You can reach him at www.dominothegreat.com .

Thanks to all who came to the party!

Halfway There!

2006-09-08T16:16:00.000-04:00

Thanks to a great summer of parties, we are halfway to our goal of raising $150,000 for the stabilization of the former St. Joseph's Church!

Today, we hit the $50,000 mark, and when coupled with the generous match from Candace King Weir, we'll have $75,000 for Phase II !

It's not too late to join Committee 150! You can schedule your party over the next few months ... Please call 462-1900 or send an email to committee150@verizon.net.

Don't forget -- the last Open House of the season is this Sunday at St. Joseph's from 1 - 3 p.m.

Bill & Jessica's Tiki Freakout!

2006-08-31T18:58:00.000-04:00

Click on Rich to see photos.
Believe me, they were worth waiting for!

SPLASHDOWN a success!

2006-08-25T10:39:00.000-04:00

The Albany AquaDuck

The event was a sellout! 42 people enjoyed a garden reception at Marion & Ralph's, then boarded the Albany Aqua Duck for a chartered tour of the city and a SPLASHDOWN in the Hudson River. A great time was had by all, and we raised $1,555 for Committee 150! Special thanks to Cap'n Chris and Tour Guide Paul, and of course, to our hosts, who just may have the most beautiful garden in the area.

Calling All Kids!

2006-08-24T13:00:00.000-04:00

Family Festival Helps to Save St. Joe’s

Committee 150 Party
for Children and Parents on September 10

Albany, NY (August 24, 2006) – A neighborhood family festival is scheduled for September 10 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Hudson-Jay Turnaround Park in Albany. The festival is part of Committee 150’s efforts to raise funds to restore St. Joseph’s Church. It is the only Committee 150 fundraiser with a specific focus on children and families.

“Why should the adults have all the fun?” says Courtney Burke, one of the organizers of the event. “We are saving this historic landmark not just for us, but for our children and the other generations to come. So creating a party with a kids-focus only makes sense. And it’s a great way to meet neighbors who have kids.”

The festival will feature Capital District magician Domino the Great, who has donated his talent for making kids smile for the event. In addition, there will be face painting, games and a barbeque. It’s organized by Center Square neighbors Chris and Courtney Burke, and Matt & Shannon Cherry.

Committee 150 is a citizens’ campaign organized to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the former St. Joseph’s Church, and to raise $150,000 to continue stabilization work on the once-endangered building. Through parties and donations, Committee 150 has raised more than $40,000. A challenge grant from prominent investment counselor Candace King Weir, owner of C.L. King & Associates Inc., which matches each $2 raised with $1 additional, brings the total to date to over $61,000, more than one-third of their goal. The campaign began in May and is slated to end in the fall.

"Historic landmarks like St. Joe's give the community more than just the functions of a building and the beauty of their architecture: they contribute to the very character of the city, providing a sense of place and a connection with history that once lost can never be regained,” says Matt Cherry. “When a building gives so much to the community, the least the community can do is to give a little in return.”

The suggested donation for the event is $10 for adults.

For more information, contact Shannon Cherry at 248-6592 or shannonc@nycap.rr.com.

###

Contact:

Shannon Cherry
518.248.6592
shannon@beheardsolutions.com

Picnic, Music and Raffle Sales at St. Joe's on Sunday

2006-08-10T10:49:00.000-04:00

Open House Slated for Sunday, August 13 at historic St. Joseph’s Church

ALBANY, 8/10/2006 – On Sunday, August 13, from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., Historic Albany Foundation will host an Open House at the former St. Joseph’s Church. The public is invited to see the interior stabilization project, view an exhibit about the history of the building and parish, and hear about plans for the future.

St. Joseph’s is located at Ten Broeck and Second Streets, one block from the Palace Theatre. There is no fee to attend the open house.

Visitors are encouraged to bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic in St. Joseph’s park. Albany resident, music educator and Delmar Community Orchestra Conductor Joseph D. Gumpper will perform inside and outside St. Joseph’s.

“We hope that the sound of Joe’s violin will help people see beyond the current condition of St. Joseph’s, remember better days, and imagine the possibilities for the future,” said Colleen Ryan, co-founder of Committee 150. Ryan, a former President of Historic Albany Foundation’s board of directors, co-founded Committee 150 with Elizabeth Griffin, former Executive Director of the Foundation. The citizens’ campaign was organized to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the former St. Joseph’s Church, and to raise $150,000 to continue stabilization work on the once-endangered building.

Through parties and donations, Committee 150 has raised more than $30,000. A challenge grant from prominent investment counselor Candace King Weir, owner of C.L. King & Associates Inc., which matches each $2 raised with $1 additional, brings the total to date to nearly $50,000 – one-third of their goal. The campaign began in May and is slated to end in the fall.

Tickets will also be available for upcoming Committee 150 fundraisers at the Open House, including the “SPLASHDOWN for St. Joseph’s,” a chartered trip on the Albany Aqua Duck on the evening of Thursday, August 24. The party starts with wine and appetizers in a charming garden in Albany’s Hudson/Park neighborhood, which was featured the Hidden City Garden Tour. Participants will board the Albany Aqua Duck at 6:15 p.m. for a chartered tour of the City of Albany, culminating with a SPLASHDOWN in the Hudson River.

“It’s not too late to join Committee 150,” said Ryan. “Each time someone has a party to raise funds for St. Joseph’s Church, they boost the visibility and viability of a magnificent building, and the historic Ten Broeck Triangle neighborhood that surrounds it.”

For information about the stabilization project at St. Joseph’s, contact Erin Tobin Bearden at Historic Albany Foundation at http://www.historic-albany.org/ or 518-465-0876 x 12. To learn more about Committee 150, or to sign up to plan and host a party, visit committee150.blogspot.com or leave voice mail at 518-462-1900.

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SPLASHDOWN for St. Joseph's!

2006-08-08T11:25:00.000-04:00

... Aboard the Albany Aqua Duck!

WHAT: Committee 150 will host a chartered Aqua Duck tour of Albany

WHEN: Thursday, August 24, 2006
Wine & Cheese Garden Party at 5:00 p.m.
Aqua Duck Tour at 6:15 p.m.

WHERE: Robinson Square Parking Lot
(Hamilton Street at Swan Street)

COST: Tickets are available for $50, $36 is a tax-de“duck”tible donation. Call 518-462-1900 or email committee150@verizon.net to reserve a ticket. Committee 150 will get back to you to confirm availability and payment details.

Proceeds from the Splashdown for St. Joe’s will benefit Committee 150, a citizens’ campaign to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the former St. Joseph’s Church, and to raise $150,000 to continue stabilization work on the once-endangered building.

The party starts at 5:00 p.m. with wine and appetizers in Marion & Ralph's charming garden in Albany’s Hudson/Park neighborhood, which was featured this year on the Hidden City Garden Tour. Participants will board the Albany Aqua Duck at 6:15 p.m. for a chartered tour of the City of Albany, culminating with a SPLASHDOWN in the Hudson River.

The Aqua Duck will pick up and return the group to Robinson Square (Hamilton at Swan Street) where ample parking is available.

For information about the stabilization project at St. Joseph’s, contact Erin Tobin Bearden at Historic Albany Foundation at http://www.historic-albany.org/ or 518-465-0876 x 12. To learn more about Committee 150, or to sign up to plan and host a party, visit committee150.blogspot.com or leave voice mail at 518-462-1900.

Be Our Guest!

2006-08-04T12:45:00.000-04:00

Committee 150 Night at the Park Playhouse

WHAT: Committee 150 will host a fundraising reception prior to the Sunday performance of Beauty and the Beast
WHEN: Sunday, August 6, 2006
Wine & Cheese Reception at 6:30 p.m.
Performance begins at 8:00 p.m.
WHERE: Washington Park, Albany
(The Lakehouse, entrance at Madison and New Scotland Avenues)
COST: Suggested donation is $20 per person for the reception, the performance is free.

Proceeds from “Be our guest! Be our guest!” will benefit Committee 150, a citizens’ campaign to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the former St. Joseph’s Church, and to raise $150,000 to continue stabilization work on the once-endangered building.

The party starts at 6:30 p.m. with wine and appetizers under the tent at stage right, hosted by The Morgan State House, an urban inn on Washington Park. Donations will be accepted for Committee 150. Please call the State House at 518-427-6063 to add your name to the guest list.

For information about the stabilization project at St. Joseph’s, contact Erin Tobin Bearden at Historic Albany Foundation at http://www.historic-albany.org/ or 518-465-0876 x 12. To learn more about Committee 150, or to sign up to plan and host a party, visit committee150.blogspot.com or leave voice mail at 518-462-1900.

A BIG Weekend for Committee 150!

2006-08-02T11:51:00.000-04:00

Kevin Cole at the Steinway

On July 28,29 and 30, Committee 150 raised more than $14,000 in three separate events for the stabilization of the former St. Joseph's Church. All told, Committee 150 has brought in nearly $30,000 … and we still have lots of parties to go!

Enjoy the photos from the "Summertime with Gershwin" party at Albany City Hall. Special thanks to the wonderful Kevin Cole, who performed so beautifully that evening. Thanks also to our hosts, the vendors who donated their products and services, and to the volunteers who made it all possible!

It's not too late to join Committee 150 and have your own party to raise money, raise awareness, and imagine the possibilities! Please call 462-1900 and leave voice mail requesting more information, or send an email to committee150@verizon.net !

Tickets Still Available for City Hall Gershwin Celebration!

2006-07-27T10:57:00.000-04:00

Musical party to benefit landmark
Gala at Albany City Hall will aid with restoration work for St. Joseph's Church building

By BRIAN NEARING, Staff writer
First published: Thursday, July 27, 2006
Times Union

ALBANY -- A series of summer parties aimed at raising funds to repair a landmark Arbor Hill church will be making a stop at City Hall.

Committee 150, which has set a $150,000 fundraising goal for St. Joseph's Church, will host a party Friday themed on the music of George and Ira Gershwin, said committee co-founder Colleen Ryan.

"With each party, each open house and each discussion, we hope that people will begin imagining the possibilities for this magnificent structure," she said. The group, which started in May, so far has raised about $23,000 through various parties.

In 2003, the city gave the Historic Albany Foundation ownership of the 141-year-old neo-Gothic church, which had been closed nearly a decade earlier by the Albany Roman Catholic Diocese. The roof was in danger of collapse because leaks had rotted a key supporting pillar.

Earlier that year, the city took ownership of the church from Lark Street restaurateur Elda Abate through eminent domain, saying the building was in danger of falling down.

So far, the foundation has spent about $100,000 on repairs, said Ryan, but more work remains, including restoration of ornate stained glass windows.

The City Hall party, scheduled for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., will feature Kevin Cole, called by the Chicago Tribune "the best Gershwin pianist in America today."

The following day, Cole is scheduled to perform at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center with the Philadelphia Orchestra and guest conductor Marvin Hamlisch.

Tickets start at $50 per person, and can be purchased by calling the Morgan State House at 427-6063.

[Co-hosts of the event are Albany Mayor Gerald Jennings; Anders Thomson, senior vice president and director of commercial real estate finance for New York State for Citizens Bank; Charles Kuhtic, owner of the Morgan State House, an urban inn in Albany; and J.M. L. Huffman, J.D., a Financial Planner with Met Life Financial Services.]

Food, decorations and entertainment will be handled by Dale Miller, a certified master chef at Jack's Oyster House; Brad Junco of Capital Wine & Spirits; Seagroatt Floral; and Hugh Murphy of Clark Music in Latham, which is donating use of a Steinway piano.

Other sponsors include Complete Party Rentals, Designs by Douglas, McCadam Cheese, Spoonful Catering, Classical Recording Service -- Daniel Czernecki, Vinci/Weigel Beverage Center, Experience and Creative Design and RK Designs.

A raffle will be held for a vacation package at the Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa in Lake Placid. In addition, original artwork depicting St. Joseph's Church, as well as signed prints, will be available for purchase.

To learn more about Committee 150, or to sign up to plan and host a party, visit http://committee150.blogspot.com or call 462-1900.

Brian Nearing can be reached at 454-5094 or by e-mail at bnearing@timesunion.com.

Summertime ... And the Livin' is Easy ...

2006-07-18T14:07:00.000-04:00

Mayor Jennings, Business Leaders to Co-Host “Summertime with Gershwin” Party for Committee 150

ALBANY, 7/18/2006 – On Friday, July 28 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., Albany’s historic City Hall rotunda will take on the ambience of a Manhattan apartment during the heyday of legendary creative geniuses George and Ira Gershwin.

Albany Mayor Gerald Jennings; Anders Thomson, senior vice president and director of commercial real estate finance for New York State for Citizens Bank; Charles Kuhtic, owner of the Morgan State House, an urban inn in Albany; and J.M. L. Huffman, J.D., a Financial Planner with Met Life Financial Services are joining forces to present Summertime with Gershwin, a fundraising party for Committee 150.

The party will feature entertainment from Kevin Cole, who the Chicago Tribune calls “the best Gershwin pianist in America today.” Cole will perform A Gershwin Celebration at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center with The Philadelphia Orchestra and guest conductor Marvin Hamlisch the following evening at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $50 per person, and can be purchased by calling The Morgan State House at 518-427-6063. Proceeds will benefit Committee 150, a citizens’ campaign to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the former St. Joseph’s Church, and to raise $150,000 to continue stabilization work on the once-endangered building.

“This event continues the commitment that the City of Albany has made to preserve and restore the former St. Joseph’s Church,” said Mayor Jennings. “Since 2001, when the City began emergency stabilization work, to 2003, when we transferred ownership of the building to Historic Albany Foundation, we have known that this structure was too important to lose. I’m proud to support the efforts of Committee 150, whose members are coming up with fun and creative ideas for fundraisers that highlight the best of Albany.”

Upcoming events include a New England Style Clambake, a benefit softball game, and a Splashdown for St. Joe’s featuring a chartered trip on the Albany Aqua Duck.

According to co-host Charles Kuhtic, this party demonstrates the enthusiasm of the local business community to protect and celebrate Albany’s unique historic architecture. “From Dale Miller, Certified Master Chef at Jack’s Oyster House; to Brad Junco at Capital Wine & Spirits; to Seagroatt Floral; to Hugh Murphy of Clark Music in Latham, who is donating the use of a Steinway Piano for the evening, local businesses and professionals have responded very generously to our request for support of Committee 15o.” Additional business and individual sponsors include: Complete Party Rentals; Designs by Douglas; McCadam Cheese; Spoonful Catering; Classical Recording Service – Daniel Czernecki; Vinci/Weigel Beverage Center; Experience and Creative Design; and RK Designs.

Guests at Summertime with Gershwin will have the opportunity to participate in a raffle for a getaway package at the Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa in Lake Placid. In addition, original artwork depicting St. Joseph’s Church, as well as signed prints, will be available for purchase.

Through events, raffles and donations, Committee 150 has already raised more than $15,000. A challenge grant from prominent investment counselor Candace King Weir, owner of C.L. King & Associates Inc., which matches each $2 raised with $1 additional, brings the total to date to over $23,000 – 15% of their goal. The campaign began in May and is slated to end in the fall.

“It’s not too late to join Committee 150 and support the stabilization of the former St. Joseph’s Church,” said Colleen Ryan, who co-founded the Committee with Elizabeth Griffin. “With each party, each open house, and each discussion, we hope that people will begin imagining the possibilities for this magnificent structure.”

For information about the stabilization project at St. Joseph’s, contact Erin Tobin at Historic Albany Foundation at www.historic-albany.org or 518-465-0876 x 12. To learn more about Committee 150, or to sign up to plan and host a party, visit committee150.blogspot.com or leave voice mail at 518-462-1900.

Historic church now has a future

2006-07-07T10:54:00.000-04:00

First published: Friday, July 7, 2006
by Fred LeBrun

Slowly, cautiously, we can uncross our fingers over the fate of Albany's historic St. Joseph's Church.

After teetering on the brink of crumbling destruction for years, this gem of Albany architecture has been brought back. The efforts of Mayor Jerry Jennings' administration, the Historic Albany Foundation and a host of concerned citizens has pulled off a resurrection few believed would really happen.

We won't say it too loudly just in case, but it appears St. Joseph's is saved. It is, at least, stabilized and safe enough for regular public open houses and tours.

What a turnaround.

In December 2001, Troy consulting engineer Russ Reeves warned then-owners Mario and Elda Abate that a key internal column supporting the roof and sustaining two main walls was in "a dynamic mode of failure." Reeves added bluntly that "this is a dangerous situation. I am uncertain if the building can be safely stabilized at this point."

Because of Reeves' startling evaluation, then-Public Safety Commissioner Jack Nielsen soon condemned the building, clearing the way for the city to take the church from the Abates by eminent domain. That action is technically still in the courts, although long dormant.

Scaffolding went up immediately inside the church, and emergency repairs began on the failing column and roof. Over time, internal repairs became more sophisticated, increasingly with an eye for the enduring. Eventually and appropriately, ownership and responsibility were transferred to the Historic Albany Foundation.

Great credit goes to the city for spending the money needed upfront to save the building rather than tear it down, even when there was no assurance of recouping expenses. The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation later came through with a $300,000 matching grant that is still active.

The apparent saving of St. Joseph's, integral to the cultural history and contemporary skyline of the city, may be the most significant act of historic preservation that I've witnessed in nearly 40 years of covering Albany. An enormous testament to what can be accomplished when city government and an inspired citizenry go whole hog toward a worthy goal.

This Sunday, St. Joseph's, off Clinton Avenue a block up the hill from the Palace Theatre, will host an open house from 1 to 3 p.m. Come witness the resurrection, and view a historic exhibit about the church and the neighborhood.

Not that St. Joseph's is anywhere near being free and clear of controversy, or even guaranteed prosperity.

Foremost, there's the money needed for further restoration and maintenance. Unfortunately, major fundraising for St. Joseph's has not been as robust as the physical work to preserve it.

Although a grass-roots effort called Committee 150 is in the throes of trying to raise $150,000. The brainchild of Elizabeth Griffin, former executive director of the Historic Albany Foundation, and former Historic Albany board President Colleen Ryan, the idea is for 150 citizens to donate $1,000 each or somehow raise that much through parties or some creative venture. Ideas run from clambakes to Gershwin Garden parties to raffles. Check their Web site at www.committee150.blogspot.com.

And secondly, what remains totally up in the air is what St. Joseph's will be used for. That, maintains Historic Albany's Erin Tobin, "is not for us to decide." Not now, anyway. For the moment, the focus remains solely on making sure a saved piece of Albany history stays that way.

Fred LeBrun can be reached at 454-5453 or by e-mail at flebrun@timesunion.com.

Erin & Roger's Red White & Blue 4th!

2006-07-05T21:18:00.000-04:00

Red White & Blue 4th of July

The rain held off through the fireworks, and a good time was had by all at Erin & Roger's Committee 150 Party!

Best of all, they brought in ~~$965~~ more than $1,000 for the stabilization of the former St. Joseph's Church, with additional pledges still to be collected.

If you're planning a party this summer, it's very easy to make it a Committee 150 party ... leave voice mail at 518-462-1900, or send an email to committee150@verizon.net to find out how you can join us on Committee 150!

Photos from Mansion Neighborhood Party

2006-06-22T13:18:00.000-04:00

Marci's back yard

Just a few images from a very successful party.

Worth, the photographer, was one of the hosts, and expressed his regret that "he didn't have any pictures of all of the wonderful food they had!"

Please send an email to committee150@verizon.net to schedule your party, or to receive information on joining Committee 150!

Open House Slated for Sunday, July 9

2006-06-20T16:06:00.000-04:00

Historic St. Joseph's Church Open to Public from 1 - 3 p.m.

ALBANY, 6/20/2006 – On Sunday, July 9, from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., Historic Albany Foundation will host an Open House at the former St. Joseph’s Church. The public is invited to see the interior stabilization project, view an exhibit about the history of the building and parish, and hear about plans for the future.

St. Joseph’s is located at Ten Broeck and Second Streets, one block from the Palace Theatre. There is no fee to attend the open house.

Committee 150 members will be present to discuss their campaign to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the former St. Joseph’s Church, and to raise $150,000 to continue stabilization work on the once-endangered building.

Through parties and donations, Committee 150 has already raised more than $10,000. A challenge grant from prominent investment counselor Candace King Weir, owner of C.L. King & Associates Inc., which matches each $2 raised with $1 additional, brings the total to date to over $15,000 – one tenth of their goal. The campaign began in May and is slated to end in the fall.

“We have a number of events already scheduled for July and August,” said Colleen Ryan, who co-founded Committee 150 with Elizabeth Griffin. “From a Gershwin Garden Party, to a New England Style Clambake, to a Splashdown for St. Joe’s featuring a chartered trip on the Albany Aqua Duck, Committee 150 members are coming up with fun and creative ideas for their parties.”

In addition, The Upstate Artist’s Guild is planning a party for August, and two Committee 150 members have joined forces to offer a “Winner’s Choice Raffle” with a prize of a catered dinner party for 8 or cocktail reception for 25 at an elegant Center Square residence, to be announced at the final Open House at St. Joseph’s in September.

“It’s not too late to join Committee 150 and support the stabilization of the former St. Joseph’s Church,” said Ryan. “With each party, each open house, and each discussion, we hope that people will begin imagining the possibilities for this magnificent structure.”

For information about the stabilization project at St. Joseph’s, contact Erin Tobin Bearden at Historic Albany Foundation at http://www.historic-albany.org/ or 518-465-0876 x 12. To learn more about Committee 150, or to sign up to plan and host a party, visit committee150.blogspot.com or leave voice mail at 518-462-1900.

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Be$t Party Yet!!!

2006-06-19T10:14:00.000-04:00

Carol Bullard, Worth Gretter & Marci David hosted a party in Albany's historic Mansion Neighborhood on Saturday. With lovely weather for a garden party, excellent food and wonderful friends, this party brought in over $2,500 for Committee 150! (With the matching grant from Candace King Weir, $3,750 will go towards the stabilization of St. Joseph's Church!)

Please remember, the Committee 150's goal for the take from each party to average $1,000 ... and while the first few parties have raised more, it's OK to raise less!

More than anything, we want to make sure that lots of people get together this summer to celebrate the 150th annniversary of St. Joseph's Church, Albany's spectacular historic architecture, and the neighborhoods that make this city such a wonderful place to live. So ... no pressure!

If you would like to host a party but would like some help with ideas, here are some events that are in the works for the next month or so that might inspire you ...

A Red White & Blue 4th of July
Old-Fashioned New England Clambake
Gershwin in the Garden
A Picture-Perfect Party
Splashdown for St. Joe's! (a chartered ride on the Albany Aqua Duck)

Group raising funds to save crumbling landmark church

2006-06-13T14:33:00.000-04:00

Summer parties planned to match $300,000 grant

First Published Monday, 6/12/06
BY ELI FANNING Gazette Reporter

A series of summer cocktail parties may help save a 150-year-old former Roman Catholic church.

The historic but deteriorating St. Joseph’s Church is located off Ten Broeck Street near the Palace Theatre in downtown Albany. The landmark building was decommissioned in 1993 and 10 years later was transferred to the Historic Albany Foundation by the city of Albany, which took possession of it from a private owner. In the interim years, however, its condition deteriorated badly, and it now needs critical roof work and protection from pigeons.

The foundation has obtained a $300,000 matching grant from the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and it has managed to raise about $100,000 to match the grant. With help from a new group called Committee 150, the foundation is hoping to raise $150,000 to $200,000 by September.

"We are a neighborhood advocacy group and we want to put ourselves out of business," said Committee 150 organizer Colleen Ryan. "We are trying to save that building for that next use. We are trying to help people realize the possibilities."

The committee’s goal is to raise money through a string of invitation-only summer cocktail parties. Two parties staged thus far have netted $2,500 in pledges to save the Gothic-style church, which was designed by the noted American architect Patrick Keely and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The church was built in the 1850s for Irish parishioners helping to build the Erie Canal.

The former church is surrounded by a fence and two small parks. The inside is largely vacant, and Ryan said the foundation is seeking good ideas about a future use of the building.
Much of the stained glass remains in place, though nesting pigeons have destroyed some of the panes, said Erin Tobin Bearden, executive director of the Historic Albany Foundation. Slate is falling off portions of the sloped roof, Tobin Bearden said.

“The term the engineer used is that roof is in a dynamic mode of failure. That strikes fear into my heart,” Ryan said.

A main support pillar was restored in 2003 but the roof is still leaking, allowing water to slowly destroy to church. "Water is the worst enemy of old buildings and that’s what took its toll," Ryan said.

The church hosted an open house Sunday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Similar open houses will be held at the church at the same time on July 9, Aug. 13 and Sept. 10.

MEREDITH L. KAISER/GAZETTE PHOTOGRAPHER John Szypulski, of Niskayuna, left, his mother, Diane Szypulski, of Colonie, and Dan Gallucci of Thompson, Pa., share memories of St. Joseph’s Church and its school during an open house Sunday at the 150-year-old church building.

Photos from St. Joseph's Open House

2006-06-11T21:03:00.000-04:00

Our name in lights!

Even with stiff competition from the Flag Day Parade in Troy, the Pride Parade & festival in Washington Park, and a Soap Box Derby race on Madison Avenue, about 100 people came to see the former St. Joseph's Church in Albany's historic Ten Broeck Triangle neighborhood.

Special thanks to the Palace Theatre for putting our open house info on their marquee!

If you missed this open house, there are 3 more scheduled for this summer -- watch this space for updates and schedule information.

Friends "Cook Up" Raffle for Committee 150

2006-06-09T13:33:00.000-04:00

Be on the look out for Stephanie Richardson and Frances Tarlton at Albany events this summer!

They have put together a "Winner's Choice Raffle" where the prize is dinner for 8 or a cocktail party for 25 -- hosted at Frances & Mike's house, and catered by Frances, Steph, Mike and Tom.

Frances' elegantly appointed house has been on the garden tour, and I can personally vouch for Steph's mouth-watering culinary talents! (Her crab cakes are to die for...)

Tickets will be offered at Capital Wine & Spirits during the Garden Tour and at the St. Joseph's Open House(s) on July 9th and August 13. The winner will be announced at the final St. Joseph's Open House on September 10th.

Just think, you could pay back several dinner obligations or host a wonderful cocktail party for 25 friends -- all for the price of a raffle ticket!

Open House SUNDAY at St. Joe's

2006-06-07T12:07:00.000-04:00

Contact: Colleen Ryan
518-428-9348 (mobile)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Open House this Sunday at historic St. Joseph’s Church

ALBANY, 6/7/2006 – On Sunday, June 11, from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., Historic Albany Foundation will host an Open House at the former St. Joseph’s Church. The public is invited to see the interior stabilization project, view an exhibit about the history of the building and parish, and hear about plans for the future.

St. Joseph’s is located at Ten Broeck and Second Streets, one block from the Palace Theatre. There is no fee to attend the open house.

Committee 150 members will be present to discuss their campaign to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the former St. Joseph’s Church, and to raise $150,000 to continue stabilization work on the once-endangered building.

Through parties, donations and a challenge grant from prominent investment counselor Candace King Weir, owner of C.L. King & Associates Inc., Committee 150 has already secured over $10,000.

“Many people have asked what will happen to St. Joseph’s once it’s stabilized,” said Colleen Ryan, who co-founded Committee 150 with Elizabeth Griffin. “Before addressing the future use, we need to raise the funds to ensure that the stabilization project can proceed. With each party, each open house, and each discussion, we hope that people will begin imagining the possibilities for this magnificent structure.”

For information about the stabilization project at St. Joseph’s, contact Historic Albany Foundation at www.historic-albany.org or 518-465-0786. To learn more about Committee 150, visit committee150.blogspot.com or call 518-462-1900.

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STOOPATHON a success!

2006-06-05T10:49:00.000-04:00

The Brunch Buffet ...

Thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended (and a number of folks who did not, but still made a contribution) our rain-soaked STOOPATHON for Committee 150 raised ~~$1,410~~ $1,565! And with the generous matching grant announced last week from Candace King Weir, that total climbs to $2,347.50 !!!

If you were unable to attend the STOOPATHON but would still like to support the work of Committee 150 in raising money for the stabilization of the former St. Joseph's Church, please make your check payable to Historic Albany Foundation, and write Committee 150-CMR in the memo line. Send your check to Historic Albany Foundation, 472 Madison Avenue, Albany, NY 12208.

Saving an old Albany church, one party at a time

2006-06-01T10:33:00.000-04:00

Summer events set to raise about $1,000 each to rescue building

By BRIAN NEARING, Staff writer, TIMES UNION
First published: Thursday, June 1, 2006

ALBANY -- People who want to help pay for repairs to a landmark former church in Arbor Hill will be holding dozens of house parties this summer to raise the money. A group called Committee 150 intends to hold 150 parties -- with a goal of raising about $1,000 each time for the Historic Albany Foundation, which will put the money toward work at St. Joseph's Church, said Colleen Ryan, the committee's co-founder.

"People get asked for money all the time," said Ryan, a former board president of the historic foundation. "They don't always get asked to have a party. People have all kinds of ideas, from upscale affairs to community-oriented."

In 2003, the city gave the foundation ownership of the 141-year-old neo-Gothic church, which had been closed nearly a decade earlier by the Albany Roman Catholic Diocese. The roof was in danger of collapse because leaks had rotted a key supporting pillar.

Earlier that year, the city took ownership of the church from Lark Street restaurateur Elda Abate through eminent domain in January 2003, saying the building was in danger of falling down, and spent nearly $250,000 on exterior scaffolding and other emergency repairs.

The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation provided a $300,000 matching grant for repair work, but the foundation had to raise its own money and spend it before being reimbursed.

So far, the foundation has spent about $100,000, Ryan said. The roof has been repaired and pillar replaced, but more work remains, including the restoration of the ornate stained glass windows.

"People are always saying to me, that's great you have the state grant. Well, it doesn't work exactly that way. We have to spend the money first," said Ryan.

Even though it's been four years, the foundation isn't in danger of losing the remaining portion of the grant, said Wendy Gibson, a spokesman for the office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. "They are making an effort and we are working with them," Gibson said.

Ryan said the committee, which includes about 70 members, held its first house party during the running of the Kentucky Derby in May at a Mansion neighborhood residence, where about $1,100 was raised. (Actually, the party was on Spring Street...)

She's also making the 10th annual version of her own springtime gathering -- which she dubs Stoopathon -- into a house party for St. Joseph's.

Already, a prominent investment counselor has stepped up with a challenge. Candace King Weir, owner of C.L. King & Associates Inc, will match $1 for every $2 raised at the parties, Ryan said.
"We already have 70 parties or pledges -- agreements to host a Committee 150 event or contributions of $1,000," said Ryan, who founded the committee with Elizabeth Griffin, the former executive director of the Historic Albany Foundation.

"Even though we had raised $100,000 of the $300,000 matching grant before I left, I felt there was something we could do as a community to secure the remaining funds while raising awareness of this magnificent building and neighborhood," Griffin said.

Parties will be held in June, July, August and September. The group's steering committee has developed a Committee 150 Kit that will be sent to each host, which includes background on the stabilization project and tips to help them meet the fundraising goal.Information on Committee 150 and upcoming parties is available at http://committee150.blogspot.com.

Brian Nearing can be reached at 454-5094 or by e-mail at bnearing@timesunion.com.

Committee 150 Public Launch!

2006-05-29T17:34:00.000-04:00

*** MEDIA ADVISORY / PHOTO OPPORTUNITY ***

WHAT: An important announcement regarding an initiative to raise funds for the stabilization of the former St. Joseph's Church.

WHEN: Wednesday, May 31 at 7:00 p.m.

WHERE: St. Joseph's Park, First & Ten Broeck Streets, Albany
(one block northwest of the Palace Theatre)

More than 90 individuals and organizations have joined Committee 150, a committee with no meetings, no minutes, and no minutiae. A number of Committee 150 members will be at St. Joseph’s Park in Albany’s historic Arbor Hill neighborhood on Wednesday, May 31, to announce the public phase of their campaign to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the former St. Joseph’s Church, and to raise $150,000 to continue stabilization work on the once-endangered building.

The announcement will take place at Historic Albany Foundation’s Annual Meeting and Preservation Merit Awards reception. Awards will be presented to Washington Avenue Armory for adaptive use; Truman Jewelers & Lodge's for downtown housing rehabilitation; and a number of private residences, including two fire-damaged properties on Madison Place.

The program runs from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., and will feature a presentation by Assemblymember Jack McEneny on the history and significance of the former St. Joseph's Church. The meeting is open to the public and refreshments will be served. There is a suggested donation of $10.

Please call Colleen Ryan at 518-428-9348 (mobile) for more information.

Committee 150 nears 70 members!

2006-05-22T13:08:00.000-04:00

When we started talking about Committee 150 in March, I set a goal of having 25 people on our Committee in Formation when we did our major mailing in May. Well, as it turns out, we already have close to 70 commitments for parties or pledges of $1,000.

If your name isn't here, it's not too late to join! Leave a voice mail at 518-462-1900 or send an email to committee150@verizon.net and let us know you'd like to be a member! When you schedule your party, we'll send you a Committee 150 Kit to help you meet your fundraising goal.

It's going to be a great summer!

Committee in Formation

Albany Local Development Corporation
Matt Baumgartner
Erin Tobin Bearden & Roger Bearden
Matthew & Phoebe Bender
Christopher & Diane Betts
Jay W. Bouchard
William Brandow
County Executive Michael Breslin
Senator Neil Breslin
Mark Brogna
Carol Bullard & Worth Gretter
Christopher & Courtney Burke
Nancy Burton & Peter Leue
Jim Campbell & Cindy Shenker
Hon. Dominick Calsolaro
Assemblyman Ron Canestrari
Capital Wine & Spirits
Jim Carr
Jim Cohen
Hon. Richard Conti & Steve Snow
Bartley J. Costello
Marci David
James Davies & Gordon Harris
Elizabeth Griffin & Jim Plastiras
Hartgen Archeological Associates
Sue Herlands
Susan Holland
J. M. Huffman
Mayor Gerald Jennings
Jocelyn Jerry
Brad & Rebecca Junco
Charles Kuhtic
Carolyn & Bill Lemmon
Carolyn & Dr. Appleton Mason
Charles McCaffrey
Virginia McCann
Assemblyman John McEneny
Millis McLaughlin
Felton McLaughlin
John McLennan
George & Kathleen McNamee
Christine Miles & Jake Kelliher
Hon. Shawn Morris & John Wellspeak
Gordon Mowbray
Hon. Tom Nitido & Wendy Saunders
Heather Nowicki
Dr. & Mrs. Thomas Older
Alice Oldfather & Jeffrey Gordon
Tony Opalka
Brien & Elizabeth O’Toole
The Palace Theatre
Brian Petraitis & Deborah Benson
Ellen Picotte
Lynda Porter
Ned Pratt
Joseph Rabito
Ken Ragsdale & Lori Hansen
Stephanie Richardson & Tom Clark
Jackaline Ring
Colleen Ryan & Eric Hoppel
Ed & Gerrie Ryan
Nadine & Rob Shadlock
Society of Architectural Historians, Turpin Bannister Chapter
Mary Stoll & Dennis Rapp
Dr. R. Mark Sullivan
Frances Tarlton & Mike Bergan
Doug Townsend
Candace King Weir
Margery & Michael Whiteman

"Fun" for the Roses ... The first Committee 150 Party!

2006-05-08T12:35:00.000-04:00

"Fun" for the Roses

Mark, John, Ken and Lori hosted a Kentucky Derby party for Committee 150. Click here to see photos from this great event on Flickr!

St. Joe's Open House - Sunday!

2006-05-05T10:16:00.000-04:00

While the early forecasts were calling for rain, it looks like we're going to have a lovely day for the first St. Joseph's Open House of the season!

On Sunday, May 7, from noon - 4 p.m., Historic Albany Foundation will open St. Joseph's Church to the public. Come and see the interior stabilization project, an exhibit about the history of the building and parish, and hear about plans for the future. St. Joseph's is located at Ten Broeck and Second Streets.

After you visit St. Joe's, stop by the 7th Annual Albany History Fair, this Sunday (May 7) from noon to 4 pm. The History Fair is a fun-filled, free afternoon of stories and traditions, music and tours, exhibits and demonstrations at the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center, Quackenbush Square, corner of Broadway and Clinton Avenue in Downtown Albany. Free visitor parking is available off Broadway via Spencer Street.

Just in case none of these addresses sound familiar to you ... You know where the Palace Theatre is, right? If you're facing the Palace Theatre, the Visitors Center is about 1 block behind you (towards the river and 787); and St. Joe's is about 1 block in front of you (go past the Palace on Clinton Avenue, take a your first right on Ten Broeck Street.)

Committee in Formation Nears 40 MEMBERS!

2006-05-04T12:54:00.000-04:00

From a mailing to approximately 160 people, we have committments for almost 40 parties or $1,000 contributions!

The Committee in Formation list is as follows, so far:

Erin Tobin Bearden & Roger Bearden
Matthew & Phoebe Bender
William Brandow
Mark Brogna
Carol Bullard & Worth Gretter
Christopher & Courtney Burke
Nancy Burton & Peter Leue
Capital Wine & Spirits
Jim Carr
Jim Cohen
Bartley J. Costello
Marci David
James Davies & Gordon Harris
Elizabeth Griffin & Jim Plastiras
Lori Harris
Hartgen Archeological Associates
Susan Holland
J. M. Huffman
Mayor Gerald Jennings
Jocelyn Jerry
Brad & Rebecca Junco
Charles Kuhtic
Virginia McCann
Assemblyman John McEneny
Millis McLaughlin
John McLennan
Christine Miles and Jake Kelliher
Gordon Mowbray
Heather Nowicki
Alice Oldfather & Jeffrey Gordon
Tony Opalka
Ellen Picotte
Stephanie Richardson & Tom Clark
Colleen Ryan & Eric Hoppel
Mary Stoll & Dennis Rapp
Frances Tarlton & Mike Bergan
Doug Townsend

If you'll host a party to support the stabilization of the former St. Joseph's Church in Albany's historic Arbor Hill neighborhood, you can join Committee 15o, too! Please let us know by close of business on Monday, May 8, so we can add your name to the Committee in Formation.

Planning the Perfect Party

2006-05-02T10:14:00.000-04:00

Committee 150 members are already coming up with great ideas for parties! Some of the proposed themes include:

A Kentucky Derby Party - Complete with Benedictine, Burgoo, Derby Pie, and, of course, mint juleps
A Picture Perfect Party - With a professional photographer donating his services to take candids and portraits of attendees, which they can then purchase online
The "10th Annual Stoopathon" - An open house and brunch on the day of the Freihofer's Run for Women, which runs through Washington Park (ok, that's my party!)

Parties can be fun for the whole family with a small contribution from a large number of guests, or dinner or cocktails for a smaller group with a larger suggested donation. It's really up to you!

You can join Committee 150 by calling our voice mail at 518-462-1900 or sending an e-mail to committee150@verizon.net .

The "Committee in Formation" is growing...

2006-04-27T10:09:00.000-04:00

The Steering Committee has been making follow up phone calls (I've actually been signing people up as I run into them on the street) and we are delighted to report that the Committee 150 "Committee in Formation" has nearly achieved our goal, with more than a week to go!

We hoped to have 25 parties or pledges in hand by the time we ordered stationery for our BIG MAILING which will go out in mid-May, prior to Historic Albany Foundation's Annual Meeting & Preservation Merit Awards.

As of 9 p.m. last night, the following individuals have joined Committee 150, either by agreeing to host a party raising $1,000 for the stabilization of the former St. Joseph's Church, or by donating $1,000 to the cause.

Erin Tobin Bearden & Roger Bearden
Matthew & Phoebe Bender
William Brandow
Mark Brogna
Christopher & Courtney Burke
Nancy Burton & Peter Leue
Bartley J. Costello
James Davies & Gordon Harris
Elizabeth Griffin & Jim Plastiras
Lori Harris
Hartgen Archeological Associates
Susan Holland
Mayor Gerald Jennings
Jocelyn Jerry
Charles Kuhtic
Assemblyman John McEneny
John McLennan
Gordon Mowbray
Heather Nowicki
Ellen Picotte
Colleen Ryan & Eric Hoppel
Mary Stoll & Dennis Rapp
Doug Townsend
YOUR NAME HERE!

You can join Committee 150, too! Members are scheduling parties throughout the summer, with a goal of raising $1,000 at each party. Some will raise more, and some will raise less, but we'll all be part of the team that's working to save this magnificent structure.

Remember, all donations and party expenses are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Leave a message on Committee 150's voice mail if you'd like to join us ... 518-462-1900. Or drop us an e-mail. We hope you can help us put the FUN back in fundraising!!!

Getting the word out ...

2006-04-09T10:26:00.000-04:00

On Monday evening, the Steering Committee is meeting to sign and send out 109 letters. We hope to get at least 25 people signed up to the Committee 150 "Committee in Formation" by Monday, May 8.

The first batch of letters is going to "the family" -- people who have been strong and generous supporters of the effort to save St. Joseph's in the past, elected officials, business leaders ... We need their early endorsement to create the groundswell that will make our effort a success!

The good news is, we already have verbal committment for about 10 parties. Once we sign up a few more, we'll start posting them on a calendar on our website. Which reminds me, I have to put the finishing touches on the website ...

Introducing ... Committee 150!

2006-03-24T15:07:00.000-05:00

How would you like to be on a committee with no meetings, minutes or minutiae?

We’d like to invite you to join Committee 150, and your only obligation is to have a party!

All summer long, all over Albany and throughout the Capital Region, people will be hosting parties to raise funds, to raise awareness, and to imagine the possibilities. We hope you’ll join us.

Begun in 1856 and designed by noted American architect Patrick Charles Keely, St. Joseph’s Church has graced Albany’s skyline for generations. Please help us celebrate the 150th anniversary of the building, and raise $150,000 to continue stabilization work.

Committee 150 will help meet the challenge issued in 2002 by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, which awarded a $300,000 matching grant to Historic Albany Foundation to stabilize the former St. Joseph’s Church, which was in danger of collapse.

With your help, we can meet our goal!