Long List of Contributers to Foundation "House Sale Fundraiser"

Lodi, California (July 26, 2006) -- The following sub-contracters have generously given to the Hutchins Street Square Foundation's "House Sale Fundraiser":

Tradesmen interested in being a part of this community project should contact Jeffrey Kirst at Tokay Development, Inc. at 209.334.4994.

Hutchins Street Square Foundation "House Sale Fundraiser"

Lodi, California (May 01, 2006) -- Ground will soon be broken in the SunWest Meadows Development for a home which sale proceeds will be donated to Hutchins Street Square according to Chairman John Ledbetter and Project Coordinator Jeffrey Kirst.

Kirst, a member of the Hutchins Street Square Foundation Board announced that construction will begin shortly on the Wildwood Drive site and expected the home to be ready for sale and occupancy in time for the Christmas holidays.

The concept of a home sale was conceived over 20 years ago by fellow board member Dennis G. Bennett, with support from local developers and subcontractors who volunteered a portion of their work and labor to be donated to the project.

This is the second time in the history of the Square that the Lodi building industry has stepped forward to be a major donor. The first home sale was in September, 1984 – Pat and Kathleen Farrington bought the Lodi Park West home. As a result of the sale, the Foundation received a net profit of over $33,000 with contributions of labor and finances made by 38 individuals, companies and subcontractors involved in the construction of the house.

Leading the charge for the 2006 house is Ysidro Acosta of ACI, Inc. who has volunteered to supervise the job at no cost. Early donors and supporters of the project include Chris Keszler and David Williams, who provided the lot at below market cost, Farmers and Merchants Bank extending excellent lending terms, Placer Title Company, the City of Lodi, Bennett Development, Duran Homes, JFH Design Group and Tokay Development all working together to complete the initial planning, material selection and permitting process.

The new residence will be under construction at 1458 Wildwood Drive. The project home is 2,156 square feet with three bedrooms, master bath, separate office, tiled entry, dining room and arched entry to the living room featuring a gas fireplace and French sliders that spill into the backyard. Granite countertops are a focus in the kitchen, along with crown molding and a two-car garage.

Tradesmen interested in being a part of this community project should contact Jeffrey Kirst at Tokay Development, Inc. at 209.334.4994.

"House Sale Fundraiser" Lot Site
1458 Wildwood Drive, Sunwest Meadows

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"House Sale Fundraiser"
Foundation being poured

One Hundred Red Roses Planted at the Square

Lodi, California (April 01, 2006) --It only took 20 minutes for volunteers to plant 100 red roses in honor of the City of Lodi’s Centennial Celebration. Despite the consistent rain of the month of March, we had a small window of opportunity to put the bare root ‘preference’ floribunda roses in the ground, spreading color throughout the site.

Pulling in the muscle for the project was Tokay High School Ag Teacher Matt Bronson, who brought a handful of his top students. The young people not only planted roses, but helped weed through old shrubs that needed to be pruned or pulled.

Another 30 ‘independent’ volunteers, from toddlers to senior citizens, helped with the project – all armed with shovels, gloves and a keen interest in continuing the support of Hutchins Street Square.

We’ll work closely with the local rose clubs to make sure the new plants are property nurtured, as well as coordinating with a local school to help our maintenance staff ‘dead head’ the bushes during the blooming months.

The roses were purchased by the Foundation as their contribution to Lodi’s Centennial. Jeff Gamboni, of Gamboni Landscape Architect in Stockton, volunteered his time to source the roses, as well as spot them for planting.

And our thanks to Foundation Board Member Daphne Felde who fed the entire group after they got their hands dirty! Bravo to everyone for their support – all of these donated layers of enthusiasm and hard work continue to make the Square a jewel for Lodi.

Lodi Arts Commission Sponsors Non-Profit Status Training for Art Organizations

Lodi, California (August 22, 2005) -- The Lodi Arts Commission (LAC) is actively seeking art organizations that are interested in establishing non-profit status to help you through the process. As part of their on-going commitment to broaden arts in the community, the LAC will be holding training sessions for those organizations wanting to establish 501(c) (3) standing.

Establishing a non-profit status can make your organization eligible for grants and funding for which you would otherwise not be able to qualify. If you are in need of support in making your way through this process or just have questions on how your art organization can be recognized as a tax exempt entity, please call the Lodi Arts Commission at 209.333.5511.