Cole-Newkirk renovates home

Dean of Student Life and Services Charlene Cole-Newkirk didn't exactly jump into building a deck. It started when Vice-President of Finance Andy Evans nearly took a five-foot free fall into Cole-Newkirk's backyard.

"I said, Charlene, you've got a problem here," Evans said. Cole-Newkirk's home had been moved east of its original location to accomodate the building of Stevenson Dining Hall. The move created a dire need for a deck and other renovations.

"When we first came out to Oberlin to visit the house, we looked through and gave the College a list of things we wanted," Cole-Newkirk said. "It took two years for things to happen."

"When a site becomes vacant, there is a schedule for matienance," said Controller Ron Watts. Proposed projects are approved by Vice President for Operations Donna Raynsford.

Since the Newkirks have lived in the Artz house, situated just north of Stevenson, the house has been given a new roof, deck and vinyl siding. The total cost of the repairs was $22,331, according to Director of Facilities Matienence Gene Matthews. The repairs were funded by the Rental Properties division.

Some staff members and students have questioned the amount of money spent on the improvements which also included purchasing new appliances to replace stoves and other outdated appliances.

Senator senior Joshua Kaye said he had hear a number of rumors and speculations. "There's been so much confusion and people aren't sure what's going on.

The Newkirks have also made a number of improvements to the interior of the house to make it more suitable for entertaining. "I negotiated with Dye to be able to entertain in that house," Cole-Newkirk said. "Sometimes I have two or three dinners a week."

"She bought some china and some silverware to make the house more inviting," said Associate Dean of Student Life and Services Ken Holmes.

"It's not silverware," Cole-Newkirk said. "It's stainless steel. It's 12 settings, gold tinted."

"She has cost consiousness about those kind of things," said Evans. According to Evans, Cole-Newkirk rejected new furniture selected for her office as too expensive.

The exact cost of the internal improvements was not available.

"Anything bought with College funds is College property," Evans said. "When she leaves, the silverware should still be in her drawer."

Watch out!: Dean Cole-Newkirk's new deck makes her home more suitable for entertaining. (photo by Heidi Good)