The latest project is the preservation of the amazing St. Hedwigs church in Thorp, WI. The project began as a solution to a need for Fragile. They were looking for a large building to record string parts of their new album in and had seen the old abandoned church from the highway many times. This led them to Father Keith Apfelbeck of St. Bernard's in Thorp, WI. Upon asking of this possibility he said no, quite quickly I might add, and that could have been the end of it. But we contacted him again to explain more about ourselves and the band, as well as the foundation and the work we have done. After some convincing, we had a meeting, and eventually got in to see the inside of the magnificent structure. Words cannot explain the feeling of walking in to a place such as this. Even with all the dust and debris on the ground the beauty could not be ignored. Father Keith went on to inform us of the history of the grand building. It's construction, use, and eventual closing. The sound inside was perfect and we realized that it was more then we could have hoped for. After a couple recording sessions, and the news it was to be torn down at some point, a new plan emerged; to save St. Hedwigs church. Plans were put in place to use the building as a recording studio and as offices for The Hands Foundation. There are also plans to have an art center in the basement. People would be able to tour the building and see for themselves the awe inspiring beauty of this amazing structure. Father Keith proved to be an integral part of the process speaking on our behalf to anyone who would listen. The local papers and press spread the story and people from all over started sending their encouragement and donations for the project. The building was an inspiration to so many people who had either attended the church or its functions and wanted to see it returned to it's former glory. An agreement was reached in late 2008 with the catholic dioceses of La Crosse, WI to lease the church to the Hands Foundation so renovations could begin, and they immediately did. Work has been going on since with so many people volunteering their time. We continue to need support by way of volunteering or donations. The biggest need for St. Hedwig's is a new roof to stop anymore damage from occurring due to leaks. Efforts are underway to raise this money as we speak.

**UPDATE**- The roof has been scheduled!  It will be put on in the spring in either February or March.  Donations are still needed to pay for this project. Thanks to those who have donated so far.