Legal snafus

There is a possibility that we are going to run into some extra expenses in the near future.  When we did the property registration we were assured that "for a small fee" we would not  have to do some of the requirements that most commercial properties are required to do.  We understood this under the context of not really being a major commercial property like a business.  Now an official has told us that the main bureau in dnepropetrovsk is going to do an audit of the local fire and water departments to make sure properties are in compliance with zoning laws.  This official has said for another "small fee" he can make all of this go away.  I am extremely uncomfortable with these "small fees".  Currently, it appears we would need to install a fire alarm system, and put in a second exit (windows don't count here).  This will run in the neighborhood of $2500 (we are currently checking with a friend on prices). There may be legal fees to do the work and work permits that have to be taken out for the work, driving up the cost.  we will keep you posted on the developments

preparing for the future

With the events that have transpired over the last few weeks, we are preparing to identify and delegate duties to people in the congregation. The urgency is doubled, as we have not only lost a great worker in Stuart Merrill, but Katie and I will be travelling to the states in late January to prepare for the birth of our third child, as well as another tour. Everyone seems willing to step up and take some responsibility. Even with the extra help, there is going to be a need for teaching help. There are several potential solutions, but the two most likely possibilities seem to be either one preacher coming to do the teaching, or coordinating a series of preachers who could each come for at least three or four weeks. One person has already tentatively volunteered for one month, if we decide to go that direction. Eugene will be prepared to handle youth group once Adrian returns to the States. Adrian is currently taking care of the Merrill's property concerns. Anyone interested can reply here, or Contact Mike Locke at milocke@paulbunyan.net

Update

Stuart does not have actual paralysis. although he has very limited movement in his right side he has sensory perception.  Travis reports that he is showing emotional response.  The surgeons in Dnipropetrovsk are trying to arrange a transer to Kiev. That is the news as of 4:00p.m. (9:00 EST).

I have posted a link to Travis's blog to the left.

Stuart Merrill update

I'm sorry I haven't posted on the blog until now. i have been using my facebook to give updates, but here is the information in case you aren't a facebook member (although I would suggest you subscribe - it's free and a good way to stay in touch with Christians across the country).
Stuart Merrill suffered a hemotoma yesterday approximately 1:00 pm Thursday afternoon while working on the roof at the church building. Fortunately, he must have sensed something and held on to the roof with his right arm. He suffered paralysis on the right side, which actually probably helped him stay on the roof long enough for Adrian and Zack to arrive and help get him off the roof. He had remained conscious the entire time. Services here are not adequate for surgery, so this afternoon he was transported to Dnipropetrovsk, where a neurosurgeon will operate on him shortly (if not already). Valerie reported that he was more alert this morning, and his color was better, he was also more responsive, able to move his right side a little more than yesterday. This is what I know as of 5:00 our time (10:00 EST). Kyle and Justin Merrill will be arriving in Dnipropetovsk in one hour.
Thank your for your prayers and keep them coming.
Andrew Green