The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Pioneer Garden unveiled
School district dedicates community space at Ely Stadium
Elyria City School District held a dedication ceremony for a new community space on Sept. 6 at Ely Stadium.
Sitting just next to the concession area, “Pioneer Garden by Ridgid” was unveiled by Elyria City Schools and will add more stylish décor to enjoy games at Mercy Health Field at Ely Stadium.
The project has been in the works over the summer, sparked by a donation made by Elyria’s Ridge Tool Company to the district, continuing a long partnership, said Superintendent Ann Schloss.
“And I actually can say that they’ve been a partner for a long time because I’ve been benefiting from all of the funding they’ve given us over the years for our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education in the schools and continue to give us, but they were also very gracious when we looked at building this brand new stadium.”
Pioneer Garden has been under construction for the past month and comes complete with seating areas, some greenery and cornhole boards all decked out in Elyria Pioneer colors.
Pioneer Garden was dedicated with a ceremonial cornhole toss by Ridge Tool CEO Craig Sumner followed by the Elyria Schools Board of Education.
Schloss also thanked Elyria High School’s maintenance and custodial staff who constructed the garden.
In addition, Ridge Tool’s contribution will also add some VIP seating areas in the stadium near the press box and furniture for a new pavilion that is being donated by Architectural Vision Group and the school’s construction team.