Pavilion project was group effort

Some people say it takes a village to raise a child.

For the Detroit Lakes Pavilion, it requires community pride and a loyal fan base to preserve a 90-year-old historical icon.

A grand opening dance is planned at the Pavilion in June, which culminates a several-year effort by the Pavilion Preservation Committee to return this fixture on Little Detroit Lake beach to its grand status.

One of those 10 members -- who has been the "go-to" guy for news stories -- is Detroit Lakes businessman Mitch Wimmer.

But Wimmer quickly gives credit to the other nine committee members -- plus other individuals -- sharing a common goal: Ensuring this multifunctional, seasonal structure lasts another century.

"It's just been an institution," remarks Wimmer of the Pavilion's colorful history. "We just felt that if we don't get on the ball right now and get this thing renovated, so it's usable, it's just going to go down the drain."

So, with a great deal of effort toward the three-quarters of a million dollars needed for the renovation, the Pavilion continues to be that place on the beach where you can go for an evening dance, a wedding reception, a family reunion or a fun-filled activity during the Northwest Water Carnival.

Wimmer said it was a no-brainer when deciding to be involved with this project. Many people throughout the region have fond recollections of partaking in some type of activity in the Pavilion at some point in their lives, says Wimmer.

"There are a lot of people around who have great memories of the Pavilion and don't want to see it not be there," he explains.

The construction project is expected to be completed this spring after beginning last fall. The design and engineering was undertaken by Lightowler & Johnson Associates.

The committee members also include Cyndi Anderson, Glenn Gifford, Brian Domholt, Nancy Henke, Bruce Imholte, Ginny Imholte, project manager John King, GL Tucker and Deb Wimmer.

A combination of funding sources were needed to realize the project, from a $241,000 appropriation via the state bonding bill, cash donations and pledges, and an assortment of fund raisers.

Wimmer says because of the committee and the public, a positive attitude was brought to the restoration project and it's ultimate success.

"Once people have caught the vision, this is one of the most fun projects to work on," emphasized Wimmer. "There's nobody that talks about the Pavilion as not a fantastic mainstay for Detroit Lakes."