The newest amenity in Wythogan Park is officially open. City officials and representatives of the Starke County Chamber of Commerce cut the ribbon for the performance stage during Saturday’s car show. Mayor Dennis Estok says the project could not have been possible without the city council, redevelopment commission and the contractors who volunteered their time.
“Kajer Construciton, Danny Kajer put a lot of time and effort into this thing. Him and his crew, they donated all the time. Donnie Carlson, he did all the stone work, donated his time on doing all that. Arctic Air, Donald Kring, councilman, did all the electrical wire for us. Custom Concrete and Construction did the concrete for us.”
Estok says the city has accomplished quite a bit over the past two years thanks to the willingness of people to step up.
“That’s what it takes in a small community. People to step forward and help out and get a lot done, and we’re getting a lot done. I really appreciate it.”
After the official ribbon cutting, Jim Pulse took the stage, followed by Half Track. Both played during the car show and cruise night.
The first official city-sponsored Concert in the Park is scheduled Thursday, June 8 from 7 until 9 p.m. The Chicago-based 14-piece band Bare Facts will perform songs from the 1960s, 70s, 80s and beyond. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs.
Estok is looking for sponsors for additional shows throughout the summer. He says the Knox Park Board is also finalizing plans for movies in the park. Dates have not yet been announced. Event organizers who are planning to hold concerts or movie showings may look for professional sound engineers to setup the right sound system in the venue.
