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Reliable, Trustworthy Reporting, Capturing The Heartbeat Of Our Community
Fundraising ramps up for Clearwater Veterans Park
Clearwater Veterans Park Committe members Steve Stearns, Linda Hankla, Kate Ahlers and Michelle Stearns and sculptor Sutton Betti stand by the newest addition to the park: a kneeling soldier holding an American flag. Betti, of Loveland, Colorado, calls the statue, "Remembering the Fallen." It, along with a battlefield cross, was installed on Patriot Day, Sept. 11.
Artist's touch • Sutton Betti (right), a commissioned bronze sculptor, talks with Clearwater Veteran Park Committe members Steve Stearns and Kate Ahlers. The Loveland, Colorado, artist delivered and set up a battlefield cross and remembering the fallen kneeling soldier pieces on Sept. 11.
At first glance, the Clearwater Veterans Park, located at the intersection of Main and Nebraska streets, pays homage to those who served this country.
Flags recognizing each military branch of service wave on the eastern side of a concrete walkway. A bright mural decorates the south wall of the library. A plaque, defining the term "veteran," is installed. Benches supply a place for visitors to sit and reflect.
As of Sept. 11, two more pieces have been added: a battlefield cross and a soldier bearing a colorful American flag.
Sutton Betti, a commissioned bronze sculptor based in Loveland, Colorado, delivered and installed the pieces last week.
Committee members aren't done adding to the park. The next phase will include names of veterans with Clearwater ties etched in black granite stones.
The estimated remaining price tag: at least $50,000.
Just over a year ago, a group of residents approached the Clearwater Board of Trustees about starting the park on village-owned property.
To date, donations have been accepted from local residents and organizations. This spring, the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce donated $25,000, which assisted with concrete work.
The organization donated another $25,000 following the 2024 rodeo, which assisted with a $44,000 payment for the two statues added last week.
To assist with the final phase, the committe will host a patriotic fundraiser, Saturday, Oct. 12, at the Clearwater American Legion.
The event will double as way to recognize long-time American Legion members, including two 50-year members: Dennis Mather and the late Louis Thiele.
The event will begin with a social hour, from 5 to 6 p.m. American Legion Riders will be on site.
A meal will be served at 6 p.m. A freewill donation will be accepted.
The recognition program will begin at 7. Adam Ahlers, a Clearwater native, and Dan Kuester, of Norfolk. Both have military backgrounds.
Music will be provided by Josh Mlnarik from 8 to 11 p.m.
Comittee members urge those attended to wear patriotic colors.
"It will be a grand 'ol time," they said. " We appreciate everyone's support."
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