03-02-2020 Park Commission Packet

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From:Zoner, Eric To:Adam Edwards Cc:Diann Zoner; Zoner, Eric Subject:Long Lake Rowing Crew Support Date:Thursday, February 27, 2020 9:19:29 AM Dear Orono Parks Commission, We are Eric and Diann Zoner, Orono residents for 16 years. We were first introduced to rowing on Long Lake in 2013 when our high school sophomore daughter, Olivia, joined the club to learn how to row. At that time there were fewer than twenty club members. Today there are more than ninety- five junior and master rowers. Our daughter was instantly hooked on the sport, and we were quickly drawn in by the playful personality of the team and the natural camaraderie of its members, parents and coaches. To this day, we are still in awe at how a group of such humble beginnings has grown into a such a respected club and internationally recognized team. From the very beginning, this club had the vision and passion to build, not only a team, but a brand and a respected presence in the community. A boathouse has long been the anchor of this dream. In 2014 Orono and Long Lake neighbors saw an abandoned, neglected building with a pot-holed parking lot. But LLRC saw a place to call home, and their pride drove them to improve the property to let the community know they were serious. When the question of the team’s impact on the community is raised, we recall the overwhelming response we received when it came time to reclaim the property and cleanup the site and lakeshore. At times we had over fifty volunteers ankle deep in mud and filling dumpsters. All this from a juniors team that had grown to twenty-five members. If this group felt such pride in an abandoned lot, just think of the pride and level of commitment they will have for a more permanent structure built for the purpose of the life-long sport of rowing. This boathouse would not only provide a home for LLRC, it would provide a place for community education and the promotion of health and fitness. It will provide a place where the community can gather to learn, play and enjoy our beautiful lake. In closing, over the life of the club, LLRC has been an exceptional neighbor and steward of the shore and lake. A boathouse in Summit Park would be a great way to add to the charm of Orono, showcase Long Lake and bring attention to an under-utilized natural gem. It will also serve as a gathering place for years to come where friendships, memories and a sense of community will continue to be built. Sincerely, Eric and Diann Zoner 1050 Cox Farm Road Orono, MN 55356