Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the Chapter?
The current undergraduate chapter is strong with 50 active brothers and 15 pledges. The Castle houses 34 live-in brothers this fall, and that is the highest occupancy number since 1992. Brothers are visible leaders on campus: Interfraternity Council, ROTC, student government, SPIFFY Investment Fund, intramural sports, and many other campus organizations. Their academic pursuits are broad: engineering, business, political science, and environmental studies, among others. More importantly, our undergraduate brothers continue to shine with their philanthropic activities. They kick off their service activities in the fall by holding an annual food drive to benefit a local food pantry, and they do several other activities and pledge drives in the winter and spring. There is a robust graduate brother presence within Omega Mu. There is an active Graduate Board of Chapter Advisers that works closely with the undergraduates. The House Corporation is also very active and retains ownership of the land and the house under the same structure since our inception. The Undergraduate Chapter has made a pledge commitment of $10 per undergraduate brother per semester for the duration of the campaign over the next 3 years!
The House Corporation recently completed a survey of the Omega Mu undergraduate brothers to determine priority areas for renovations and how we compare to other fraternity houses on campus. It was almost unanimous that our house is perceived as the most attractive house on campus due to its private location and “cool” architecture and national historic register status. However, it was also determined we are at a disadvantage because other competing fraternities have recently made upgrades to their kitchen areas, bathrooms, private living and social areas. Also, in the last few years, several large state-of-the-art apartment complexes have opened in Orono that provide single rooms and other amenities that are perceived as attractive off-campus living alternatives.
Given the vagaries of taste, we stand by our historic fraternal courage and convictions that the life-long value of living in The Castle far outweighs the living opportunities elsewhere, on or off campus. The gradual sloping beauty of our land and home, along with the communal enrichment within the house, proves that we have been, and that we will continue to be, the bona fide fraternal star at the University of Maine. Assessed from many vantage points, there will be a remarkable return in our collective investment in this campaign endeavor: architecturally, fraternally, and historically. Just for a moment, go through your own Omega Mu treasure chest of remembrance and recall the good and satisfying life you experienced with your brothers, and you can, no doubt, state them all with simple, straightforward language and smile. They are not small things, but they are eternally meaningful: fraternal companionship that lasts a lifetime, resounding laughter in every part of the house, the binding warmth and sacred light of our rituals, the sharing of stories, playing on University of Maine athletic teams, all the mud bowls, 11-2's, convening at the Bear’s Den, Pat's or the Oronoka, relaxing on the front lawn or on the Phoenix Lounge, and all the shared meals in the dining room with limericks being read. They remain echoes in our heart because we were fearlessly open to all the good that is fraternal life, and they will remain comfortable and certain memories that provide good cheer, love and strength for the journey. And those are the greatest of life's rewards. That is a fraternal ancestral legacy we wish to pass on to our future brothers.
We were, indeed, privileged to know what fraternity life really means, and we want to assure that this privileged opportunity continues for young men who seek to be one of our historic number well into the future, and the hub of their fraternal belonging will be, as it was for you, our elegant structural masterpiece, The Castle. It is a fraternal home that is still alive to all who have gone before, and it must be beautifully alive in its measured aesthetic excellence for all those who will come through our storied front door in the future. We want future brothers to see our house as the preferable option; and then, after meeting the brothers, to choose brotherhood within The Castle as the only option.
What are the main reasons for this initiative?
Our current house is 92 years old, and it has served us well, but as with any structure of this age there is normal deterioration and need for renovations to make it more attractive for what today’s students expect. Additionally, last winter frozen pipes in the living room and dining room sections caused significant damage, and when the ceilings were opened, mold was discovered. Temporary repairs have been made, but this was a wake-up call that has resulted in the creation of a long-term master plan for comprehensive renovations. The House Corporation engaged an architectural and engineering firm in Bangor that specializes in historic structures to do a comprehensive building assessment. With their report and recommendations, we have developed a long-term master renovation plan and associated cost estimates that will return The Castle to its former glory and preserve its unique historical characteristics. At the same time, it will serve today's needs for functionality and safety code requirements. When the house was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013, the long-term vision was, over time, to undertake renovations to restore The Castle to its original architectural grace.
Who has been involved in this planning effort to date?
A generationally diverse group of Graduate Brothers has been involved in this process from brothers serving on the House Corporation, Board of Chapter Advisers, Graduate Historian, several at-large brothers, and the Undergraduates. These brothers all deserve a “round-of-clicks” for their time, input, guidance, and fraternal enthusiasm.
The current undergraduate chapter is strong with 50 active brothers and 15 pledges. The Castle houses 34 live-in brothers this fall, and that is the highest occupancy number since 1992. Brothers are visible leaders on campus: Interfraternity Council, ROTC, student government, SPIFFY Investment Fund, intramural sports, and many other campus organizations. Their academic pursuits are broad: engineering, business, political science, and environmental studies, among others. More importantly, our undergraduate brothers continue to shine with their philanthropic activities. They kick off their service activities in the fall by holding an annual food drive to benefit a local food pantry, and they do several other activities and pledge drives in the winter and spring. There is a robust graduate brother presence within Omega Mu. There is an active Graduate Board of Chapter Advisers that works closely with the undergraduates. The House Corporation is also very active and retains ownership of the land and the house under the same structure since our inception. The Undergraduate Chapter has made a pledge commitment of $10 per undergraduate brother per semester for the duration of the campaign over the next 3 years!
The House Corporation recently completed a survey of the Omega Mu undergraduate brothers to determine priority areas for renovations and how we compare to other fraternity houses on campus. It was almost unanimous that our house is perceived as the most attractive house on campus due to its private location and “cool” architecture and national historic register status. However, it was also determined we are at a disadvantage because other competing fraternities have recently made upgrades to their kitchen areas, bathrooms, private living and social areas. Also, in the last few years, several large state-of-the-art apartment complexes have opened in Orono that provide single rooms and other amenities that are perceived as attractive off-campus living alternatives.
Given the vagaries of taste, we stand by our historic fraternal courage and convictions that the life-long value of living in The Castle far outweighs the living opportunities elsewhere, on or off campus. The gradual sloping beauty of our land and home, along with the communal enrichment within the house, proves that we have been, and that we will continue to be, the bona fide fraternal star at the University of Maine. Assessed from many vantage points, there will be a remarkable return in our collective investment in this campaign endeavor: architecturally, fraternally, and historically. Just for a moment, go through your own Omega Mu treasure chest of remembrance and recall the good and satisfying life you experienced with your brothers, and you can, no doubt, state them all with simple, straightforward language and smile. They are not small things, but they are eternally meaningful: fraternal companionship that lasts a lifetime, resounding laughter in every part of the house, the binding warmth and sacred light of our rituals, the sharing of stories, playing on University of Maine athletic teams, all the mud bowls, 11-2's, convening at the Bear’s Den, Pat's or the Oronoka, relaxing on the front lawn or on the Phoenix Lounge, and all the shared meals in the dining room with limericks being read. They remain echoes in our heart because we were fearlessly open to all the good that is fraternal life, and they will remain comfortable and certain memories that provide good cheer, love and strength for the journey. And those are the greatest of life's rewards. That is a fraternal ancestral legacy we wish to pass on to our future brothers.
We were, indeed, privileged to know what fraternity life really means, and we want to assure that this privileged opportunity continues for young men who seek to be one of our historic number well into the future, and the hub of their fraternal belonging will be, as it was for you, our elegant structural masterpiece, The Castle. It is a fraternal home that is still alive to all who have gone before, and it must be beautifully alive in its measured aesthetic excellence for all those who will come through our storied front door in the future. We want future brothers to see our house as the preferable option; and then, after meeting the brothers, to choose brotherhood within The Castle as the only option.
What are the main reasons for this initiative?
Our current house is 92 years old, and it has served us well, but as with any structure of this age there is normal deterioration and need for renovations to make it more attractive for what today’s students expect. Additionally, last winter frozen pipes in the living room and dining room sections caused significant damage, and when the ceilings were opened, mold was discovered. Temporary repairs have been made, but this was a wake-up call that has resulted in the creation of a long-term master plan for comprehensive renovations. The House Corporation engaged an architectural and engineering firm in Bangor that specializes in historic structures to do a comprehensive building assessment. With their report and recommendations, we have developed a long-term master renovation plan and associated cost estimates that will return The Castle to its former glory and preserve its unique historical characteristics. At the same time, it will serve today's needs for functionality and safety code requirements. When the house was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013, the long-term vision was, over time, to undertake renovations to restore The Castle to its original architectural grace.
Who has been involved in this planning effort to date?
A generationally diverse group of Graduate Brothers has been involved in this process from brothers serving on the House Corporation, Board of Chapter Advisers, Graduate Historian, several at-large brothers, and the Undergraduates. These brothers all deserve a “round-of-clicks” for their time, input, guidance, and fraternal enthusiasm.
Dave Smith, 1961 Chair
Gary Sawyer, 1968 Mike Soloby, 1971 Jim McLean, 1973 Chair Paul Lessard, 1974 Doug Banks, 1982 Chip Chapman, 1982 Tom Hicks, 1982 Jay Clement, 1982 Greg Holmes, 1982 |
John Kenealy, 1982
Joel Gardiner, 1983 Chair Jeff Smith, 1984 Jonathan Smith, 1990 Chair Joe Grabarz, 2005 Chair Colby Malcom, 2010 Ethan Eisenhaur, 2013 Pierson Petropoulos, 2013 Sumner Blatt, 2014 Chair Undergraduate Cabinet |
What are the estimated costs at this time?
The initial estimate for the renovation project is $550,000. This estimate includes construction costs, kitchen refurbishment and professional project costs. We also wish to create a “sustaining maintenance fund” that will be overseen and managed by the House Corporation for ongoing perpetual maintenance with a $100,000 goal.
What is the tentative renovation schedule?
Spring 2017 - Architectural assessment completed and initial master plan timing
Fall 2017 - Fundraising campaign formally launched
Winter 2018 - Renovations begin; work will also be completed during school breaks
Summer 2018 - Renovations continue; work will also be completed during school breaks
April 2019 - Celebration at Pig Dinner in conjunction with our 120 year anniversary
Summer 2019 - It is anticipated that ongoing renovations will continue
What will happen to the undergraduates in the Chapter while the chapter house is being renovated?
The undergraduate chapter will continue to operate as normal. The construction plan calls for the major renovations to be completed during summer break and other school breaks. The House Corporation and BCA will work with the undergraduate brothers to minimize any disruptions over the two-year period.
Will my donations be tax deductible?
We have been approved for membership in the Society for the Preservation of Greek Housing (Society) and awarded an initial grant of $537,980. The Society was founded in 1988 and is registered with the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c) (3) organization to support the preservation of Greek historic structures. This organization is a 100% volunteer organization that has a strong track record of success. We do not give up any legal ownership of the property to participate in this program and the house and land will continue to be privately owned by the House Corporation.
The Society was formed to aid in the preservation of historically and architecturally significant Greek houses, to work to have additional houses listed on the National Register of Historic Places, to fund historical research/writing projects, and to conduct educational open houses and seminars to educate the public about these Greek-affiliated structures.
To aid in preservation and rehabilitation of the chapter houses, the Society will provide grants for:
· Health and safety code requirements that do not result in the loss of character
· Major structural rehabilitation or restoration
· Exterior rehabilitation or restoration
· Interior rehabilitation or restoration
All donations made to the Society may be deducted as provided in Section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. We recommend that you consult with a tax adviser about your individual circumstances regarding tax deductibility.
Direct gifts of appreciated securities, beneficiary designations under wills and/or living trusts, and other similar gifts are also welcome. All bequests, legacies, devises, transfers, or gifts to the Society are deductible for Federal estate and gift tax purposes if they meet the applicable provisions of sections 2055, 2106, and 2522 of the Code.
How will graduate brothers be solicited?
Almost $35,000 has been pledged to date. All graduate brothers will be contacted via Class Captains, general mailings and phone calls to request their participation. Our new website www.omegamu.org has been launched to connect all Omega Mu graduate brothers. This is a comprehensive website for all Omega Mu graduate brothers that is rich in historical content, and it contains all of the important information about the fundraising campaign and how to participate.
Is there a minimum donation amount?
No! All gifts of any size are welcomed and appreciated. We would like to collect payments over a three year period. Additionally, there will be naming opportunities available to permanently recognize brothers, parents, friends and family members for their generosity at $25,000 and above.
Where and how do I pledge and donate?
A pledge form is enclosed with this mailing or you can also go to www.omegamu.org to make your pledge and payments. Pledges can be paid over a three-year period and payments will be requested to be paid by November of each year (2017, 2018 and 2019). You will be sent payment reminders with return envelopes for your pledge amounts per the payment schedule or you can pay on-line any time.
How will other donation types be handled?
Matching Gifts: Because Omega Mu has been approved for membership in the Society for Preservation of Greek Housing, which is a charitable 501(c) (3) organization, matching gifts from your company or other source may apply. Please check with your company’s matching gifts program criteria and then help facilitate completion of the necessary paperwork.
Stock Gifts: You may utilize appreciated stock to fulfill your campaign pledge commitment. If you wish to make this type of gift, please contact Joel Gardiner, Campaign Chairman, at joelpgardiner@gmail.com or 617 413 - 5683 or our campaign consultant Mark Wilkison at mark@columnsfundraising.com or 404 317 - 0435. They can provide you with instructions.
Estate Gifts: If you wish to designate a gift through your will, trust, life insurance, or by some other means, please contact Joel Gardiner, Campaign Chairman, at joelpgardiner@gmail.com or 617 413 - 5683 or our Campaign Consultant Mark Wilkison at mark@columnsfundraising.com or 404 317 - 0435. They can provide you with instructions.
Gifts-in-Kind: Gifts-in-kind will be considered, reviewed by the House Corporation, and evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the campaign leadership team. Please contact Joel Gardiner, Campaign Chairman, at joelpgardiner@gmail.com or 617 413 - 5683 with questions.
If I am interested in providing a donation to fund scholarships, is this an option?
Yes! Through our International Fraternity, there is an opportunity to donate directly to the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation and designate the funds specifically for Omega Mu scholarships and leadership development programs. Gifts to the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation are tax-deductible. If this is something you are interested in, please contact Joel Gardiner, Campaign Chairman, at joelpgardiner@gmail.com or 617 413 - 5683 or our Campaign Consultant Mark Wilkison at mark@columnsfundraising.com or 404 317 - 0435.
By our historic strength of character and enthusiasm, we hope that you will help in fulfilling these stated hopes and plans for our beloved Castle.
The initial estimate for the renovation project is $550,000. This estimate includes construction costs, kitchen refurbishment and professional project costs. We also wish to create a “sustaining maintenance fund” that will be overseen and managed by the House Corporation for ongoing perpetual maintenance with a $100,000 goal.
What is the tentative renovation schedule?
Spring 2017 - Architectural assessment completed and initial master plan timing
Fall 2017 - Fundraising campaign formally launched
Winter 2018 - Renovations begin; work will also be completed during school breaks
Summer 2018 - Renovations continue; work will also be completed during school breaks
April 2019 - Celebration at Pig Dinner in conjunction with our 120 year anniversary
Summer 2019 - It is anticipated that ongoing renovations will continue
What will happen to the undergraduates in the Chapter while the chapter house is being renovated?
The undergraduate chapter will continue to operate as normal. The construction plan calls for the major renovations to be completed during summer break and other school breaks. The House Corporation and BCA will work with the undergraduate brothers to minimize any disruptions over the two-year period.
Will my donations be tax deductible?
We have been approved for membership in the Society for the Preservation of Greek Housing (Society) and awarded an initial grant of $537,980. The Society was founded in 1988 and is registered with the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c) (3) organization to support the preservation of Greek historic structures. This organization is a 100% volunteer organization that has a strong track record of success. We do not give up any legal ownership of the property to participate in this program and the house and land will continue to be privately owned by the House Corporation.
The Society was formed to aid in the preservation of historically and architecturally significant Greek houses, to work to have additional houses listed on the National Register of Historic Places, to fund historical research/writing projects, and to conduct educational open houses and seminars to educate the public about these Greek-affiliated structures.
To aid in preservation and rehabilitation of the chapter houses, the Society will provide grants for:
· Health and safety code requirements that do not result in the loss of character
· Major structural rehabilitation or restoration
· Exterior rehabilitation or restoration
· Interior rehabilitation or restoration
All donations made to the Society may be deducted as provided in Section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. We recommend that you consult with a tax adviser about your individual circumstances regarding tax deductibility.
Direct gifts of appreciated securities, beneficiary designations under wills and/or living trusts, and other similar gifts are also welcome. All bequests, legacies, devises, transfers, or gifts to the Society are deductible for Federal estate and gift tax purposes if they meet the applicable provisions of sections 2055, 2106, and 2522 of the Code.
How will graduate brothers be solicited?
Almost $35,000 has been pledged to date. All graduate brothers will be contacted via Class Captains, general mailings and phone calls to request their participation. Our new website www.omegamu.org has been launched to connect all Omega Mu graduate brothers. This is a comprehensive website for all Omega Mu graduate brothers that is rich in historical content, and it contains all of the important information about the fundraising campaign and how to participate.
Is there a minimum donation amount?
No! All gifts of any size are welcomed and appreciated. We would like to collect payments over a three year period. Additionally, there will be naming opportunities available to permanently recognize brothers, parents, friends and family members for their generosity at $25,000 and above.
Where and how do I pledge and donate?
A pledge form is enclosed with this mailing or you can also go to www.omegamu.org to make your pledge and payments. Pledges can be paid over a three-year period and payments will be requested to be paid by November of each year (2017, 2018 and 2019). You will be sent payment reminders with return envelopes for your pledge amounts per the payment schedule or you can pay on-line any time.
How will other donation types be handled?
Matching Gifts: Because Omega Mu has been approved for membership in the Society for Preservation of Greek Housing, which is a charitable 501(c) (3) organization, matching gifts from your company or other source may apply. Please check with your company’s matching gifts program criteria and then help facilitate completion of the necessary paperwork.
Stock Gifts: You may utilize appreciated stock to fulfill your campaign pledge commitment. If you wish to make this type of gift, please contact Joel Gardiner, Campaign Chairman, at joelpgardiner@gmail.com or 617 413 - 5683 or our campaign consultant Mark Wilkison at mark@columnsfundraising.com or 404 317 - 0435. They can provide you with instructions.
Estate Gifts: If you wish to designate a gift through your will, trust, life insurance, or by some other means, please contact Joel Gardiner, Campaign Chairman, at joelpgardiner@gmail.com or 617 413 - 5683 or our Campaign Consultant Mark Wilkison at mark@columnsfundraising.com or 404 317 - 0435. They can provide you with instructions.
Gifts-in-Kind: Gifts-in-kind will be considered, reviewed by the House Corporation, and evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the campaign leadership team. Please contact Joel Gardiner, Campaign Chairman, at joelpgardiner@gmail.com or 617 413 - 5683 with questions.
If I am interested in providing a donation to fund scholarships, is this an option?
Yes! Through our International Fraternity, there is an opportunity to donate directly to the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation and designate the funds specifically for Omega Mu scholarships and leadership development programs. Gifts to the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation are tax-deductible. If this is something you are interested in, please contact Joel Gardiner, Campaign Chairman, at joelpgardiner@gmail.com or 617 413 - 5683 or our Campaign Consultant Mark Wilkison at mark@columnsfundraising.com or 404 317 - 0435.
By our historic strength of character and enthusiasm, we hope that you will help in fulfilling these stated hopes and plans for our beloved Castle.