Turner Hall seeks $1.6 million for improvements

Drawings of

improvements

unveiled

By FRITZ BUSCH

Journal Staff Writer

NEW ULM -- Drawings of the Turner Hall building improvement project were revealed on Tuesday during a capital campaign progress report Tuesday in the Turner Hall Social Hall.

Following an introduction by capital campaign consultant Virgil Linkert of Jackson and Associates of Colorado, construction concepts of the four-phase campaign were shown by steering committee member Syl Mallak.

Linkert said his firm worked on a capital campaign for the New Ulm Medical Center several years ago and that he is happy to be back in town working on another project.

An artist's rendering of the outside of the building and interior schematic drawings of the project were passed around the Turner Hall Board of Directors and committees.

Linkert said a project feasibility study was completed a year ago. Project informational breakfast and luncheon meetings including audience feedback will begin in New Ulm this week.

Several dozen community leaders are invited to a breakfast meeting set for 7:30-8:30 a.m. today. A noon luncheon will be held on Thursday. Both events will be held at Turner Hall.

"Campaigns are successful when people understand the benefits of them," Linkert said. "We want support and good will from the public. Turner Hall is the cradle of New Ulm and should be particularly charished as it celebrates its 150th year in 2004."

He said the project is needed for Turner Hall to step into the next century.

Building upgrades include a handicap-accessible elevator and rear-entry renovation, handicapped bathroom facilities, a sprinkler system and storage and office space.

Red brick and Greek architecture will be used to match the existing Turner Hall building.

Phase two of the project would include interior restoration over a five-year period. Phase three includes a gymnasium upgrade and more. Phase four centers on an endowment.

The campaign seeks corporate and foundation gifts of cash and pledges along with grants. It has 503-C3 non-profit status.

Research foundations with interests in human rights, historical significance, athletics, art conservation, the disabled, recreation, community facilities and youth development are being sought. Three grant applications will be submitted by July 1, 2004.

The campaign is opening an office at 304 N. Minnesota. It can be reached at 354-2605.