Submitted by the Friends of Woodmen Hall

It started out so innocently. In 2005 The Lopez Seniors lost their lease at the fire house and purchased the historic, but derelict, Legion Hall (as it was known then). A couple of ladies felt this last-remaining historic community building (originally known as Woodmen Hall) should also be made available to all Lopezians as in years past. The Lopez Seniors concurred but soon realized gathering the funds needed to restore it to its former glory and functionality would be a monumental task. Thus began the working relationship between Lopez Senior Services and The Friends of Woodmen Hall.

Fast forward nine years and here we are, preparing for the Eighth Annual Friends of Woodmen Hall Auction and Yard Sale, to be held at the hall on Sunday, May 25. The Yard Sale begins at 10 a.m. and the Auction at 1 p.m.

Thanks to fundraisers like this (only made possible by generous donations from the Lopez community) and grass roots support (including many hours of volunteer labor from the seniors) the hall has received many upgrades; Insulation (it’s first in all it’s 100 years!), new bathrooms, commercial grade kitchen, rejuvenated flooring, lots of paint, stage improvements, lighting, upgraded electrical, new windows throughout, water upgrades, new roof, improved parking and landscaping.

The old gal is looking mighty good, and not only do the Lopez Seniors now own a comfortable, attractive site for their activities but a wide variety of community functions such as weddings, dances and music events are keeping this historic building’s 100 year-plus traditions alive and well.

Still, much work remains. First and foremost, a ramp and exit door from the back of the building is a safety issue we must address. Improved storage, signage, picnic tables and a “green room” for the stage are also on the current list.

Many incredible items have been donated and with your continued support this could be our biggest event ever! Some items will be posted at www.friendsofwoodmenhall.org for you to check out. Food and drink will be available so join us for the day and also take time to soak in all of the changes to Woodmen Hall you have helped make a reality.