(longer interview at end of story)
The Director at Pioneer Park Historical Complex in Rhinelander says major projects are underway and they need the public to step forward and help out.
Kerry Bloedorn says they're hoping to shore up a coal-burning steam engine that is slowly descending into the ground and to get a cover to preserve the unique engine. He says volunteers have been slowly doing restoration work, but to preserve it long term keep it in place, they need some funds
The group has aligned with the Rhinelander Community Foundation so donors can contribute there and then the Foundation will grant the money to the City of Rhinelander who moves the money to the Park for the project. Plans were put in place and Bloedorn says they hope to raise $65,000..
"Already, the month or so between the Foundation partnership being established and the start of this fundraising effort which started on Aug. 8, we've already raised $29,500...."
Bloedorn told the Rhinelander Common Council this week they're also working on a display that shows the history of paper making in Rhinelander. A donation by Rhinelander natives Ron and Elsie Gaber (gabe-rr) got the display going..
"When Ron and Elsie approached us saying they would provide a donation to get that exhibit off the ground, it was just a matter of chatting with different stakeholders within the complex to find some space for it..."
The Gabers also donated a large picture of workers and the mill which got the display going. More information on the many projects going on at the park and other details are in an extended interview with Kerry Bloedorn below.
