GLADBROOK – While the school may be gone, the Panther legacy lives on.

During this year’s Gladbrook Corn Carnival, the public is invited to celebrate the completion of the new Panther Pavilion which is currently being constructed in Gladbrook City Park in honor of the Gladbrook school and campus that stood for so many years just south of the park. The dedication will take place on Saturday, June 14, at 1 p.m. in the new Pavilion area.

While construction is still ongoing, volunteers have been working many hours to get most of it completed in time for the dedication. The community project has been in the works for almost two years including planning, fundraising, permits, ordering, weather delays, etc.

The retaining wall will feature a large number of engraved bricks purchased by Gladbrook school classes spanning the years of 1940 through 1988, as well as one from the Class of 1920 and the first graduating class of 1885. Bricks also honor past graduates and school staff including teachers and adminstrators as well as businesses, community organizations, and community members.

A structure made from the original bricks of the school, a granite etching of the school building, and a plaque honoring a tribute to education will all feature under the large gazebo. Two benches – one gold and one purple with plasma cuttings of the Gladbrook Panther – will also feature.

Volunteers began laying engraved bricks last weekend on the new Panther Pavilion in Gladbrook City Park. The public is invited to a dedication ceremony for the Pavilion set for Saturday, June 14, during Corn Carnival. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Finishing pieces that are still in the works include lighting, moving of the school flag pole, landscaping, and some history of the school.

Please join the Gladbrook community in City Park during Corn Carnival on Saturday, June 14, beginning at 1 p.m. to honor and celebrate the Panther legacy and spirit.