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Location Date Fri, 20 April 2012 1334918725 Tue, 07 February 2012 1328595941 Tue, 24 January 2012 
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Well here goes, I have decided rather than email a select few, I will publish a blog and post pictures so if you would like to follow my employment in Iraq you can. Since this is my blog, I will write what I want and how I want, hopefully nobody will get offended, but if you do just remember you do not have to read it. My goal with doing this blog is to explain what stage of construction we are in, post pictures, as well as talk about the local culture and, my experiences here. I welcome all comments and messages.
Since returning to Iraq after Christmas break, I have been consumed by work and trying to establish some sort of schedule for this project. At home a schedule would be a simple task to complete, but here road blocks and scope changes are part of the daily routine. Prior to my leaving for x-mas, I delivered two approved contracts (by the design team) to the owner for his review and approval, mechanical (HVAC and plumbing), and electrical, to date I have not received either back. This delay will cost me another month on the schedule. Nobody here moves with any sense of urgency. We have almost completed the main structure as well as both pavilions and both garages. Currently we are working on the gate house concrete and the perimeter wall around the property.
As far as safety and security, I have not noticed any major changes or issues since the pullout of US troops, only a few more helicopter patrols and more noticeable security forces around town, but nothing major. I still maintain my friendship with my South African private security guys, which is a security blanket for me more than anything, so if anything does happen here, they are only a phone call away.
That is all for now check back in about two weeks for an updte!
- comments
Cindy Clark Wow Marc, this is a great idea. It's fun to watch the progress, even if it is very slow. Have a great day.
Patriciaaaaaa How u doin? What a great experience and idea! It is nice to be part of your Iraq world, even though we are far far away! I have many questions...I will start with only two hehehe Are you building a house? How about the food? Weather? Thanks and keep in touch! good luck!
Rob Grove Hey Mark looks like Iraqi Construction to me I told you atleast add 6 months to your end date. Hope your having as good a time in Arbil as I did.Stay safe bud hope all is well tell Glenn I said Hi Talk to you soon
Mitch Kolber Great idea,always interested in what your doing first hand. Keep up the good work.Can't wait to see the progress. Mom & Dad
Allison DelVecchio Great idea Marc! Make sure you remind us to check this in your FB status at times. Cool to see the project and what's going on with you over there!
Patti OH so that's where you've been hiding!
Howie Berger Very cool!! Sorry I couldn't help you with the block, but I did try..
Susan Thanks for including me. My class really enjoyed your visit describing your work building in an earthquake prone area. When we start building our projects in class, I'll be reviewing your pictures with them. Susan M.
Leslie Kolber Roller This is really great! Try to incorporate some other pics, like where you live etc. How's the weather nowadays?Hopefully it has cooled off somewhat. Nice work bro. Keep it up and get your ass back to the states. Love you lots!
Judy Brown I'm delighted to see your blog & hope to keep up with you. Your involvement in Iraq is wonderfully fascinating, and though it's tough for you to be separated from family I envy you this experience. Enjoy, have fun, work hard and above all.....be safe.
Debi Hey Marc - Thanks for doing this. Although slow in your eyes it has certainly grown from the last pictures I saw! I'm glad you're feeling safe and not noticing may changes. Take care and I'll check in later.
Marianne Thanks so very much for keeping us posted, we like to know that you are safe...We weren't sure where you were, me Doug and Smitty left you a voice mail message this weekend. Be safe.