Turlock Lodge #395 

UPDATE! The elevator is complete!  All inspections have been passed and the elevator is fully functional. We have received rave reviews from members and visitors about this wonderful addition to our Lodge. This project proves once again that, "Time, Patience, and Perseverance will accomplish all things."

We have come so very far and the quality of workmanship is outstanding.  Brothers Bob Strickler and Dave Cone, and Bob's son, in particular, have made tremendous efforts on behalf of our Lodge and this project. Thank you!

The donor recognition wall plaque is now in place and is updated on a regular basis by the Building Association Secretary. The plaque is located in the entryway of the elevator lobby, on the west wall.

We are still approximately $40,000 short of meeting our financial commitment on this vital project. Yet another appeal is being made in the hope that we can retire the debt. Please consider making a tax deductible gift to help in this endeavor. Thank you to everyone who has donated to date.  Watch this area for more updates!

Elevator Project Information

For many years, Turlock Masonic Lodge frequently discussed ways to increase attendance at Lodge functions.  The number one reason cited for non attendance was the difficulty, as members grew older, to climb the stairs to our beautiful second floor Lodge room and kitchen. 

The possibility of building an elevator to overcome this obstacle had been discussed, discarded, rekindled and studied over many years.  On November 7th, 2002, it was  approved by the membership of the Lodge to proceed to establish a fund to defray the cost of construction of an elevator. An exhaustive architectural and feasibility study, detailed plans and working drawings were completed by a local architect and paid for by the Masonic Lodge. The agreed upon plans were subsequently approved by the City of Turlock’s Building Department. The upgrade to our 84 year old Lodge, would bring it into compliance with A.D.A. standards.  The cost of the project was estimated to be $140,000.  

By agreement of the membership, the Lodge, applied for and received, “Historical Building” status from the City of Turlock.  Any contributions for improvements to the building, to make it compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, (ADA), are allowed and are tax deductible.  A fund, separate from any Lodge monies, has been established at Turlock Commerce Bank, to receive donations. 

Many Lodge members have donated to the fund and contributions continue.  However, there is still a need for funds to complete construction. Any individual or organization may make donations to the fund.  Their affiliation need not be Masonic. We will gladly accept contributions, in any amount, to help in funding this project to make our facility more accessible for our members, their families, our Youth Orders and the public, for those functions that are open to them. Any foundation wishing to donate grant funds, on a matching funds basis, to preserve this Historical Lodge and to bring it into A.D.A. compliance, is encouraged to contact the Secretary of Turlock Lodge.  

In the vestibule of the elevator entrance room, there is a beautiful recognition board with handsomely engraved donor, and "in memory of ", name plates.  

$140,000 (BEST ESTIMATE OF FINAL COST)

$105,000 donated as of 10/01/2007 (Super Progress Noted!)

 

Please help us to meet our goal !             

Recognition levels have been established as follows:

$100.00 as Century Club Donors  {CENTURY}

$500.00 as Silver Club Donors                                                                            

$1000.00 as Gold Club Donors               

$2,500.00 as Platinum Club Donors  

$5000.00 as Diamond Club Donors  

$10,000.00 or more will be recognized as Special Builder Donors 

Donors may also be anonymous, if they so desire. Memorial gifts are greatly appreciated. We remain flexible to receive and review ideas to help meet our fundraising goal. To date, we have received in excess of $105,000 in donations and pledges.  What  wonderful progress we have made.  Now, more than ever, we need to push forward to realize our dream.  If you have already donated, won't you please consider enhancing your gift?  

Please make checks payable to: "Turlock Masonic Building Association"

Send them to: 

Turlock Masonic Lodge #395

P.O. Box 3424, Turlock, CA  95381-3424

Attention:  Mel Carothers, Secretary