Here is the latest on the new Aviation Park here at GMU. The 5K fundraiser was held on Saturday, May 25th called the Take Flight 5K. What an amazing day it was. The weather turned out perfect for 310 participants to run or walk down the runway for this great race. 58 kids also participated in their very own kid’s run. Many people from Greenvillle and the surrounding region came out to help raise money for the park. Awards were given to the top finishers and tee shirts were given to all the participants and the kids got “Dog Tags” in honor of Memorial Day.
Many local businesses helped to make this day a success by sponsoring the 5K event. Special Services Corporation, Greenville Journal, Earth Fare, Bon Secours St. Francis Health System, Land Rover, and local radio stations Chuck FM 97.7, HOT 98.5, X98.5, and 1073. JAMZ all donated their time and money. The race planner was Joe Lanahan. Joe currently oversees the very successful TD Bank Reedy River Run in Greenville which was run the week prior and has well over 1,600 people running. His willingness to donate his time helped make the Take Flight 5K event possible. The event kicked off with Greenville’s Civil Air Patrol presenting the flags and leading the Pledge of Allegiance. If you missed it this year mark your calendars for next year.
Final numbers and expenses are still coming in for the event but they are now working towards funding the bigger kids play set and need $68,448.99 more. The other large expenses will be $75,000.00 for the picnic pavilion which will seat 100 people and $20,000 for educational aviation signage, benches with shade structures, park signs, and some other small items. None of this would be possible if it was not for the people, foundations and companies that have supported the park since its inception. Many businesses have given their resources at no cost or below cost to help make this park a reality.
Currently, the installation crew is working on assembling the small kids playground set, a multi-age swing set, a bi-plane climber, and two 2-seat airplane turf finders. These should be completed within the next week or so weather permitting. Once complete these additions will enhance an already fantastic park and a great spot to watch all the aircraft traffic. If you would like to donate to the park please let me know or contact Lara Kaufmann at [email protected] .
Doug Goldstrom- VP Sales & Marketing
Email- [email protected]
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