Delta Delta Delta - Cornell University

PAGE 2 Alpha Beta Chapter THE CHALLENGE The House Corporation and undergraduates have long identified window replacement as a much-needed but challenging improvement to the Chapter House. During the past two years, this project has been a priority, which led to many conversations with both potential contractors and town officials. Due to the historical status of the building, there are restrictions and approvals required by the City of Ithaca's Historical Commission. The IHC considers windows a character defining feature of the property and replacement or repair must comply with strict guidelines. In this case, wood windows may only be replaced IF there is a substantial issue with wood rot at greater than 50% of the window; otherwise, the windows must be repaired. The harsh Ithaca winters have taken a toll on the 81 windows in our historic Chapter House, but none currently meet the IHC requirement to allow replacement. Nonetheless, many of the window casings and sills are ill-fitting due to shrinkage and cracking, creating drafts and gaps. After a thorough investigation, 15 windows have been identified to receive labor-intensive repair. In addition, over 75 windows need storm window replacement to protect further deterioration of our wooden windows and reduce the drafts in the bedrooms and common rooms. THE COST The Finance Committee and House Corporation have approved contracts to move forward with this two-pronged effort over the next year and a half. Fortunately, we found a Syracuse-based company with well-regarded craftsmen to perform the complicated and critical window repairs this fall for $27,000. In addition, a vendor and installer has been hired to replace over 75 storm windows in 2020 for $33,000. THE GOOD NEWS In late May, we were excited to receive a Tri Delta National Housing Endowment Fund (NHEF) grant of $8,000 toward the window repair project, thus reducing our out-of-pocket costs to $19,000. House Corporation Treasurer Terry Petracca '76 and I submitted an application to the Tri Delta NHEF in March. The NHEF grant was created through an amendment to the bylaws at Convention in 1994. The grant's intent is to support house corporations in maintaining their facilities at a premier level. The funds available to be awarded per category were increased this year to a maximum of $30,000 (previously $10,000). The board plans to submit an additional application to aid in the funding of the 2020 storm window project. WHY SUPPORTING THIS PROJECT IS IMPORTANT At first glance, the benefits of these repairs are obvious: reduced heating bills, better aesthetics, and a more appealing exterior during recruitment. Moreover, making the windows more air tight will significantly improve the daily lives of our undergraduate sisters—no more stuffing towels between windows or wiping off frost from inside of the windows! But the story is a bit more complex. Cornell has spent millions of dollars improving and expanding the dormitory options on campus, adding more single rooms, gym equipment, snack bars, lecture series, etc. Upperclasswomen have more options than ever before and many decide not to explore Greek life. Although dorm life may be more attractive today to young women, we know from our own participation that the Tri Delta experience of living in a house full of sorority sisters is precious. We cherish the memories of studying in the chapter room, late-night snacks in the dining room, and chatting in the Crescent. As alumnae, we are all stewards of the Alpha Beta Chapter House. Unlike some sorority buildings on other campuses, all of us, as part of House Corporation, own the building and grounds at 118 Triphammer Road. It is imperative that we maintain the integrity of our historic home. It is the foundation of our sisterhood. Use the enclosed envelope or visit tinyurl. com/CornellTriDeltaDonate to make your gift to this important project. Your donation will impact the house for decades to come. We hope that we can count on your support! Loyally, Robin Secord '85 House Corporation Property Chairman YOUR SUPPORT IS NEEDED! Repairing and Improving the Windows at the Alpha Beta House Make a gi to our window-repair project using the enclosed envelope. The cost for this fall's repairs is $27,000. Help us meet our goal! Thank you for your generous dona on and con nued support of Alpha Beta! I Want to Help Alpha Beta!

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