The official Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting was held on 18 August.  A huge crowd attended including Mayor Don Ness.  Chamber of Commerce President David Ross presented the GND Development Alliance with a plaque in remembrance of the event.  We appreciate the contributions and donations of all who have led to our success.

How do you gauge success? Just look at the bikes!

Phase I RFP was reposted on the City’s web site in July and we did attract bidders. Veit was the low bidder for initial Phase I work. The bids came in higher than anticipated so it is essential to raise more funds to complete Phase I.

Thompson Exteriors completed the siding installation of the GND REC. Additionally, the air conditioning is up and running in the building. Thank you A. W. Kuettel, Bill Glowacki, Jim Petrich and Jim Morris!

Boldt Construction completed building the canopies over both entry doors free of charge. Del Zotto Products of Minnesota donated and installed the concrete benches on the patio. Dinehery Fence & Ironworks donated and installed widow guards. And last, but not least, Miller Creek Lawn and Landscape donated and installed the landscaping.

The GND REC hosted an ice cream social for the community on 23 July. Root beer floats were provided.

We had a great night on 5 August with Officer Marc Johnson and Oakley at the GND REC.

We have had a couple of groups doing clearing of the dog park area including a team from Wells Fargo.

As we get ready for the earthwork to start, we are doing clearing of brush and trees to improve drainage and create more space for the new soccer field. This work was coordinated by Eric Kangas who is working on becoming an Eagle Scout. Great job by Eric and his team!

We now have a fooseball table at the GND REC. Thank you Parks & Recreation!

We will be conducted a spaghetti dinner fundraiser at Mr. D’s on Monday, 14 September featuring the “Singing Slovenes”, Dinner at 5 p.m. Music 6:30 – 9 p.m. All proceeds benefit the Gary-New Duluth Rec Center. We hope to see you there!

Much remains to be done and we need your support.