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Uploaded: Friday, February 6, 2009, 6:55 AM

Elks Lodge design gets unanimous approval
But questions raised about roof angle, parapet height

by Gennady Sheyner
Palo Alto Online Staff

Posted by Gus L., a resident of the Barron Park neighborhood, on Feb 6, 2009 at 7:39 am

Nice design, It will add some class to the city, Unlike the ugly Rickys project.

Posted by Big John, a resident of the South of Midtown neighborhood, on Feb 6, 2009 at 8:12 am

When do they start swinging a hammer on this baby?

Posted by ?, a resident of the Evergreen Park neighborhood, on Feb 6, 2009 at 1:06 pm

Why would livestock need a building? What the hell IS an Elk anyway?

Posted by TwoSides, a resident of the South of Midtown neighborhood, on Feb 6, 2009 at 2:06 pm

Per Wickipedia (kinda):

The elk, or wapiti (Cervus canadensis), is one of the largest species of deer in the world and one of the largest mammals in North America and eastern Asia.

Elk range in forest and forest-edge habitat, feeding on grasses, plants, leaves, and bark. In Cities, they often can be found in buildings established on expensive real estate with lavish interiors and luxurious accommodations. Every amenity is offered. The City Elk tend to feed on expensive cuts of beef, heavy sauces, vintage wines and German beers as well as cars.

Male elk have large antlers which are shed each year. Males engage in ritualized mating behaviors during the rut, including posturing, antler wrestling, and bugling, a loud series of screams which establishes dominance over other males and attracts females. The bugle call is one of the most distinctive calls in nature. Some City Elk have similar mating behaviors, but also may have receeding hairlines, pot bellies, sagging jowls, expense accounts and a predilection for trophy wives and smoking fine cigars in the company of other Elk while brandishing their Standard and Poors reports. Their females sport expensive hairstyles, natural fiber clothing, designer handbags and tend toward the donning of a lot of bling.

Elk are susceptible to a number of infectious diseases, some of which can be transmitted to livestock. Efforts to eliminate infectious diseases from elk populations, largely through vaccination, have had mixed success. City Elk have health insurance.

Posted by Nick, a resident of the Midtown neighborhood, on Feb 6, 2009 at 6:23 pm

Thanks for including the visual piece on this one, as I had mentioned in a comment last week on another project. That really makes it come alive to moi, the reader, and makes possible those like Gus L's above.

Comment to Jay: I think it's about making journalism more informative. (Yes, that Nick.)

Posted by MidtownMom, a resident of the Midtown neighborhood, on Feb 7, 2009 at 7:00 am

What is the designated use for the new building?

Posted by Floyd, a resident of the Green Acres neighborhood, on Feb 7, 2009 at 10:26 am

How long before we pass LA in congestion and ugly?

Posted by Chuck, a resident of the Charleston Gardens neighborhood, on Feb 7, 2009 at 11:36 am

Looks like a nice building, I guess when Roxanne becomes the first ER that will really make it a great home for the membership.

Posted by ?, a resident of the Evergreen Park neighborhood, on Feb 7, 2009 at 11:56 am

Designated use? Exclusion and exclusivity!

Posted by Amy B., a resident of the Greenmeadow neighborhood, on Feb 7, 2009 at 1:11 pm

Elks guide their course in life by following the Cardinal Principles of our Order:

Charity

Justice

Brotherly Love

Fidelity

Men and women from all walks of life join the Order of Elks because they care about all peoples of the world. They feel that by joining the Elks they can make a difference in their own community and from there, reach out beyond. Elks have a long and illustrious history of philanthropy and charity across the entire USA and we members know that our individual efforts contribute to the larger goals set up by our local Lodges, our State Associations, and our national charity - the Elks National Foundation.

We Elks also take pride in supporting Veterans in a variety of ways. Locally we have a number of members visit Veterans in the Palo Alto Veterans Hospital once a month as well as sponsoring hospitalized Veterans at our summer barbecues.

Finally we Elks enjoy sponsoring local youth programs, local essay contests with local winners competing at ever-higher levels for scholarships, and local charities. We also are committed to inspiring National and Civic pride through our Patriotism programs.

If you are an American Citizen 21 years or older who believes in God, then you might like to join the Palo Alto Lodge.

Posted by George L., a resident of Portola Valley, on Feb 7, 2009 at 1:27 pm

Famous Elks

Although the original Elks were actors and entertainers, members of other professions soon joined the organization. Today's Elks represent just about the full spectrum of occupations in America. Throughout the course of the Order's history, many celebrities from the entertainment field, business and public service have been Brother Elks.

Presidents Warren G. Harding, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman and John F. Kennedy were all Elks. Former President Gerald Ford belonged to Grand Rapids Lodge No. 48, where his father served two terms as Exalted Ruler. Of course, many members of Congress have been Elks, too. Former Speakers of the House Tip O'Neill, Carl Albert, John McCormick and Sam Rayburn all belonged to the fraternity. Former Speaker Tom Foley belongs to Spokane, Washington, Lodge. And the late Hale Boggs of Louisiana was also an Elk.

General John "Blackjack" Pershing, American general and hero of the First World War, hailed from New York Lodge No. 1 as a lifelong member. 70,000 Elks served in the First World War; 1,000 gave their lives in the service of their country. 100,000 Elks served in the Second World War, over 1,600 made the supreme sacrifice for American freedom.

Entertainers Lawrence Welk, Will Rogers, Jack Benny and Andy Devine were Brother Elks, too. Brother Devine served as Exalted Ruler of San Fernando Lodge No. 1539. And Brother Clint Eastwood is a member of Monterey Lodge No. 1285. William F. Cody, better known as "Buffalo Bill," was also a Brother Elk. From the sports world, the Order has counted among its members the likes of Vince Lombardi, Casey Stengel, Mickey Mantle, Whitey Ford and Jim Finks.

Posted by 25 Year Member, a resident of Los Altos Hills, on Feb 7, 2009 at 6:51 pm

Leading Knight Steve Ebaugh, will definitely have someone running against him for ER. The reason that I am posting this is that Steve Ebaugh is continually asking if anyone knows if there is someone running for ER against him. And, the answer is absolutely yes, I have been sworn to secrecy about who it is, but there positively is someone running for ER as well. We will all vote for the person that we all feel will best lead our Lodge. Good luck to you both.

Posted by JU, a resident of the Greenmeadow neighborhood, on Feb 7, 2009 at 7:55 pm

THE PARKING SITUATION DOES NOT SEEM RIGHT FOR THAT SIZE OF BUILDING OR OCCUPANCY.

WHERE ARE THEY GOING TO PARK FOR THEIR BIG EVENTS??

WE DONT WANT THEM PARKING ON WILKIE WAY, WHERE ARE THEY GOING TO PARK WHEN THEY HAVE 300 PLUS PEOPLE FOR AN EVENT? SEARS? CABANA? IT DOESNT MAKE SENSE.

AND HOW ABOUT THE DAY CARE CENTER? MOMS DROPPING OFF KIDS EARLY IN THE MORNING AND PICKING THEM UP AT NIGHT?

THIS PLAN NEEDS MORE THOUGHT..PLEASE PALO ALTO, RETHINK THIS..

Posted by GoodLaugh, a resident of the Old Palo Alto neighborhood, on Feb 7, 2009 at 9:01 pm

Pretty funny comment TwoSides

Posted by kc, a resident of the Duveneck/St. Francis neighborhood, on Feb 7, 2009 at 9:20 pm

how do you become a member of the Elks? Is it a man's club?

Posted by Chapparal, a resident of Mountain View, on Feb 7, 2009 at 9:35 pm

Clint Eastwood is an Elk??? If correct you just made my day, George L

The Elks may spring from bohemian/theatrical origins but that day is long gone. The image of the Elks today is far removed from the glamor and glitz of show business. The Palo Alto Elks are faced with an aging member base and from the looks of it there is little to suggest that things will change soon. I have heard rumors of a marketing push to attract younger members. Good luck to the trustees in trying shake what is perceived by some in the community as a tired and stodgy image. Perhaps new Elks leadership can think creatively and bring this about.

Posted by Leading Knight, a resident of Menlo Park, on Feb 8, 2009 at 2:20 pm

God Bless all the Elks for a job well done. There are many very dedicated individuals in our organization who give their hearts, minds, and souls to this endeavour. Elks are never forgotten.

Charity is the cornerstone of the Elk structure, the highest virtue of the Elk creed. The daily gifts we bestow increase our own riches. The help we extend to those in need is added to our own strength. The witchery of wealth is not in having, but in sharing. The real benefactors of mankind count their store in what is given, not in what is saved.

But, as Elks, we teach not alone the charity of alms, but the higher and nobler charity of thought, word and deed. Our whole influence in life is determined by the good deeds we do rather than the emotions we feel. The kindliest feeling may vanish, the best resolve may be forgotten; but the influence of a good deed, honestly and promptly performed, will continue forever.

Charity is the greatest of all the virtues, and that it should ever rule us in our hearts and in our lives, leading us to speak no unkind word, to harbor no evil thought, to bear no malice, to support no wrong, but to nurture, love and protect; to condone, forgive and forget.

Posted by 20 yr Elk, a resident of the Old Palo Alto neighborhood, on Feb 9, 2009 at 11:30 am

To: 25 yr Elk,

Keep your comments regarding lodge business in the lodge.

Posted by Elk, a resident of Los Altos Hills, on Feb 9, 2009 at 10:07 pm

Since 1868, America's foremost fraternal organization has been recognized by the noble creature that is the symbol of the Order. The elk is a peaceful animal, but will rise in defense of its own in the face of a threat. The majestic creature is fleet of foot and keen of perception. A most fitting representation, the stately elk is, for a distinctively American, intensely patriotic, family-oriented organization subscribing to the cardinal principles of charity, justice, brotherly love and fidelity. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America has, indeed, fulfilled those principles and established a distinguished record of service and achievement since its founding on February 16, 1868.

Posted by Angela, a resident of the Embarcadero Oaks/Leland neighborhood, on Feb 9, 2009 at 10:40 pm

I would like to find more information about the Elks , and the new Lodge.

My family would enjoy a nice pool side activity.

Who should I contact?

Thanks, Angela.

Posted by 30 Year Member, a resident of Atherton, on Feb 10, 2009 at 1:09 am

Steve Ebaugh Leading Knight, The words you have chosen to post here, are only to be spoken within our Lodge Room and not to be posted on a public website.

Posted by Marvin, a resident of the Southgate neighborhood, on Feb 12, 2009 at 3:15 pm

Out with the OLD in with the NEW.

Let the young new members handle the new lodge, they will be the ones using it for the next few decades.

Posted by 41 year member, a resident of Los Altos Hills, on Feb 14, 2009 at 10:22 pm

If you think for a minute this is how it will turn out. Think again.

[Portion removed by Palo Alto Online staff.]

Posted by Pool Lady, a resident of Los Altos, on Feb 15, 2009 at 9:36 am

Looks like Roxanne Norville's plans back fired,

LOL.

Posted by Yolanda, a resident of the Crescent Park neighborhood, on Feb 15, 2009 at 2:07 pm

Web Link

"The THREE are working at NO COST to the Lodge"

Yeah, Right..

Posted by Lisa Leeward, a resident of the The Greenhouse neighborhood, on Feb 21, 2009 at 3:23 pm

Who is running for ER??

Posted by Sandy, a resident of another community, on Feb 26, 2009 at 10:29 am

I'm from another Ca Lodge and am shocked and sickened that lodge workings are being discussed in a public forum. The only thing that should be being discussed is the building itself. That is the purpose of this article.

Posted by Pool Lady, a resident of the Barron Park neighborhood, on May 9, 2009 at 3:17 pm

[Post removed by Palo Alto Online staff.]

Posted by Marvin, a resident of the St. Claire Gardens neighborhood, on May 16, 2009 at 2:25 pm

The new lodge is looking good, the plans are approved and looks like they will break ground soon , go to this link to see the plans Web Link

Posted by Concerned 30 Year Member, a resident of Los Altos Hills, on Sep 3, 2009 at 10:39 pm

Are members aware that the Lodge may be about to hire a an interior designer at a COST OF ALMOST 1/4 OF A MILLION DOLLARS. This is ONLY for her time, and not any of the 1/4 of a milion dollars would be spent on anthing tangible for the Lodge. She may be a great designer, but in this economy, it would be easy to find someone to work for far less than a 1/4 of million dollars, or at least we should start by offering her less money, obviouly she, she is not going to walk away in this economy if we offer her $50,000 or 100,000 dollars. Even if the Lodge hires her for less money, there has been a few negative reviews regarding NC Designs on Google. Personally, I would rather have an extra $100,000 or $200,000 sitting in our Lodge for mnay years to come, than paying a 1/4 of a million dollars stricly for their time and opinion. There are lot of talented people in our Lodge and our community that would find it a privilege to donate their time toward this project or at least work for far less, than a 1/4 of a million dollars.

Posted by old Vet, a resident of the Old Palo Alto neighborhood, on Sep 11, 2009 at 10:42 am

[Post removed by Palo Alto Online staff.]

Posted by Gus, a resident of the Barron Park neighborhood, on Oct 10, 2009 at 3:48 pm

To Rod (“Sundance”): Just received latest (Oct.) Bulletin and saw the good news about your “Certificate of Recognition” from Senator Simitian. Wow ! What a great honor, and for a very good man. Could not have happened to a better guy. CONGRATULATIONS ! (It should have been on Page 1.) Best regards from Old Ed (“Butch”).

Posted by Expired Membership, a resident of the Old Palo Alto neighborhood, on Oct 11, 2009 at 9:03 am

Have you ever heard of people that had to give themselves awards to be recognized? The 3 amigo's are at it again.

Posted by Butch Mendel, a resident of the Charleston Meadows neighborhood, on Nov 14, 2009 at 2:29 pm

Past exaulted ruler Rod Norville has been diagnosed with alzheimers as well as prostate cancer.

Please give him a call at 650 948 3263

Posted by Frank Marvin, a resident of the College Terrace neighborhood, on Nov 14, 2009 at 7:57 pm

Posted by Butch Mendel, a resident of the Charleston Meadows neighborhood, 5 hours ago

Past exaulted ruler Rod Norville has been diagnosed with alzheimers as well as prostate cancer.

Please give him a call at 650 948 3263

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Hope he is doing well