Long Time Alumni Project Coming to a Close

The Friends of River Dell (FORD) have spent the past six years working to get to this point where they can announce the scheduled opening of the Field House in the Spring of 2012.

"It's been a challenge," FORD member Kevin Sabella said.

It's been several years since construction for the 2000-square-foot single story building began in September 2009. The project which has been fully funded by donations from alumni features a refreshment stand for game patrons during fall and spring sports, a ticket booth, utilities and storage. The storage area will be reserved for athletic equipment for the Golden Hawk teams.

The project was originally offered twice to voters as a referendum. The first vote, in the mid-1990s, resulted in a tie. The second time, in 2003, voters rejected the $250,000 project. Since then, the group has held fund-raising events, such as the annual golf outing and Athletic Hall of Fame dinner, to fund the project. In 2008, volunteers laid down a sewer line and flooring for the project.

"The gas and electric hook-ups are complete," FORD President Dr. Eugene Westlake said. "The only thing left is the sewer and water hook-ups."

Coinciding with the is a final push for residents, alumni and community members to purchase engraved brick pavers that will be embedded in the Alumni Plaza for all to see. The Plaza area is adjacent to the facility.

"We want the pavers to highlight the accomplishments of our students and athletes," Sabella said.

Some examples of purchased pavers include: Smith Family, Ed Unitas, Susan Weber, Volleyball '01, State champs, etc.

The engraved brick pavers are $100 and each one includes three lines with 13 spaces per line. Forms and payment must be in by Jan. 15 and can be ordered by printing the attached PDF file. Order forms can also be picked up in the main office at either the High School or Middle School.