U.S. Steel Backs Cook’s Pickleball Project: The Cook Friends of the Parks (FOTP) has secured a generous $5,000 donation from U.S. Steel’s Minnesota Ore Operations-Keetac division to support the construction of a new pickleball court at the Cook Community Center. Although the town falls outside of the division’s usual donation zone, several key factors helped tip the scales in favor of the project.
The Power of Local Connections
The donation came to fruition thanks to the connections within the Cook community, notably Mike Bakk, Director of Operational Readiness at Keetac, and the dedication of local employees who call Cook home. Bakk, a Cook native, played a crucial role in securing the funds.
“We give around Minntac and Keetac, but we do have over 25 employees that work for U.S. Steel who live in Cook, so that did help get the funds here for this project. And for me, I’m from here, so I tried a little extra hard to convince the right people that this was a worthy donation.” – (Bakk)
The donation was also bolstered by the active participation of local businesses and residents. FOTP’s approach to fundraising, based on the simple principle of asking for help, proved successful through a series of emails and discussions between Bakk and FOTP member Jeannie Taylor.
Collaboration and Community Impact
Bakk highlighted the broader impact of the project, emphasizing the high volume of visitors to the Cook Community Center for various events, including baseball tournaments, which made the donation particularly significant. The pickleball court will serve as an additional activity hub for the community, benefiting families and visitors.
“Talking to Jeannie, there’s been a lot of people who’ve really worked hard to make this whole thing happen. We talked about some of the local businesses that have pitched in and that helps us to secure a donation like this. And it’s my understanding that hundreds and hundreds of kids and families pass through here for various activities, like baseball tournaments and such. So that helps, too – it’s good to know you’re providing a donation that can benefit so many people.” – (Bakk)
Taylor mentioned the influence of Tawnya Gustafson, a Keetac employee who helped secure the support of the Keetac union, which also contributed $200 to the cause.
“She went to school with my daughter and she has a lot to do with the Keetac union. Their union actually gave $200. She’s the one who said to talk to Mike.” – (Taylor)
A Lasting Legacy
Bakk presented the donation check in a small ceremony at the community center, with FOTP members and future pickleball players in attendance. The future pickleball court will be located near the ice rink, which will be resurfaced for dual use. A permanent sign will display the names and logos of all contributors who donate $1,000 or more, providing a lasting tribute to those who made the project possible.
“We’re going to have a sign up and everybody that’s donated $1,000 or more, their logo will be on the sign. That’s going to be there indefinitely.” – (Taylor)
FOTP has raised approximately $73,000 of the estimated $120,000 needed to complete the project. Member Val Annen expressed optimism, stating,
“We’re within range of making our goal. We’re so excited.” – (Val Annen)
Upcoming Fundraising Events
To reach their goal, FOTP is organizing several community events. One of the major upcoming events is Cook’s Big Chill, scheduled for January 18. This event will feature indoor and outdoor activities, including a chili feed, a raffle, and various contributions from local businesses.
“It’s called Cook’s Big Chill, and it’s going to be Jan. 18. It will be here (at the community center) and it’ll be outdoor and inside activities. We’ll have a chili feed, and hopefully there will be ice by then. We have a raffle, and we’ve had businesses donate cash and prizes. Our local businesses are just awesome. The tickets will be ready in about two weeks, and we’ll be sitting inside Zup’s again selling them.” – (Taylor)
The event will take place at the community center and will also serve as a fundraising opportunity to push FOTP closer to its $120,000 target.
News in Brief: U.S. Steel Backs Cook’s Pickleball Project
U.S. Steel’s Minnesota Ore Operations-Keetac division has donated $5,000 to the Friends of the Parks (FOTP) for their pickleball court project at the Cook Community Center. The town, though outside the division’s usual donation area, received support due to local connections, including Keetac employees who live in Cook. The project has raised about $73,000 toward its $120,000 goal and will be supported by upcoming fundraising events, including Cook’s Big Chill in January.
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