Plans are moving forward to replace the grandstand at Kruger Field in Perham.  The committee that has gathered in recent weeks got together again Friday, Feb. 10 to receive current information on the “Save the Park” project.

Todd Barney of Otter Tail Power took care of the electrical needs prior to taking the grandstand down.  OTP has agreed to provide a single transformer and pad to light the park, and Arvig has agreed to bore the supply lines to each tower.  JC Electric will supply their labor at no cost and materials at their cost.

Demolition of the current grandstand has begun.  After taking bids, the City worked out a deal with some Amish farmers, who will pay the city $10 to demolish the wooden structure and take the scraps.  The area will hopefully be clear within a couple of weeks.

Chad Bormann of BHH Partners presented some preliminary drawings of a new grandstand structure, which will be concrete based with wood planks for seating.  Seating capacity would be around 425 and the estimated cost will be between $200,000 and $225,000.

The hopes of the group are that some supplies and services might be donated and labor volunteered, lowering that price tag.

The original plans are for a structure similar in shape to the current grandstand, with only the center section covered, and the press box at the rear of the grandstand, rather than above it on the roof.

The incline of the rows of seats would be greater than the current structure, and greater than the bleachers at Meinhover Field, giving fans better sight lines.  It was also discussed to move the grandstand closer to home plate than it sits now, getting fans closer to the action.

The bleachers would also feature a wheel chair ramp, and two spaces for wheel chair access in the front row of the seats.

After some discussion, the idea of a back row for standing only, with a raised table to set food and drinks, could be added to a future design. Some work on the dugouts, like taking the roof off and raising it up for more headroom, and adding some length for equipment.

There will also be some storage room underneath the bleachers for the lawn mower and infield groomer.

BHH Partners will be making some minor adjustments based on discussion at Friday’s meeting. 

Now, none of this will be free, which is why the rest of Friday’s meeting was focused on finance.

The 1^st big step toward paying for the new grandstand came in the form of a $20,000 donation from the Perham Pirates / Perham Athletic Association.  The PAA is the entity that basically runs the Pirates and maintains Krueger Field.  The money is basically remaining profits from the 1995 State Men’s Amateur Baseball Tournament, which was saved and invested.

“This money is basically from the community,” Al Krueger said.  “It’s nice to give it back to the community.”

That’s a great 1^st step.  But it is just a 1^st step.  A Fundraising Committee has been formed, and they will be approaching area businesses, service organizations, individuals, and surrounding communities and baseball organizations.

All contributors will be recognized on a “Wall of Fame” that will go at the New Krueger Field.  If you have construction skills, you can volunteer your time when the building begins.  Individual pledges may be made over a 5-year period, and businesses may pledge over a 5-year period.

How can you help?  Join our all-tournament pitching staff:

Starters-The heart of any great team is the starting rotation; they are required to get the team off to a great start so the rest of the team can do what needs to be done.  Starters have the courage to take the ball with the intent to go the distance; they are the first ones to “toe the slab”.

Contribution category: $20,000-$49,900

Long Relief-Key players.  These teammates add flexibility to the staff, they have the endurance to pitch deep into the game and they have the toughness to be ready at anytime they are called upon.

Contribution Category: $5,000-$20,000

Middle Relief-These players gobble up innings so the rest of the staff can perform at their best.  Often times they are young “guns” refining their trade or wise, old veterans at the end of their career. 

Contribution category: $200-$999

Set up Specialists-    Their contribution bridges the gap between the starters and victory.  With the game on the line you can count on them to get you to the 9^th inning with the lead.  The really ones make it so you can leave the closers on the shelf for another day.

Contribution category: $1,500-$5,000

Closers-Every great team and organization has people who can “Finish”.  With these people on your team you can elevate from middle of the pack to League Champions. 

Contribution category: $50,000 plus

For more information on contributing, contact Fred Sailer at 218-346-1615 or e-mail fsailer@perham.k12.mn.us;  John George at 218-298-0434 or e-mail lakesareasports@arvig.net;  or Larry Mollins at 218-346-4155 or e-mail lmollins@arvig.net.