OPTIMIST PARK FIELD DEDICATION – The families of Durand philanthropists Fred Summerhays and Lloyd Fredrick turned out in large numbers for the city of Durand’s dedication of the Optimist Park softball fields in their fathers’ names on Sunday, Oct. 4. The east field was dedicated to Fredrick, a former Durand Fire Chief; while the west field was dedicated to Summerhays, a former Durand Mayor.
The city’s Parks and Recreation Commission invested nearly $30,000 to resurface the field and to replace the protective perimeter fencing. Durand historian Cloyse Lundie, who could not attend the event, gave some additional information in regards to the history of the fields and wants to recognize former City Councilman Pete Sloan for his part in the process. Lundie said that Sloan was “in favor of the project” and made sure the City Council approved the purchase of the land and accepted a DNR Grant that financed the operation. (Independent Photos/GRAHAM STURGEON)
