Friends of Jorgens Park Preserve to host event

By Holly Neumann

Friends of Jorgens Park Preserve (FOJPP) will host Run for the Barn on Saturday, Sept. 16, at the park located on State Highway 49, one mile northeast of Scandinavia.

Races will start at 9 a.m. with registration beginning at 8 a.m.

“Runners will have two distances to choose from,” said Dana Rima who is organizing the event. “A .5k, or 1640 feet, walk/run is around the east hay field and is a distance for children and adults as they choose. A two mile run will start to the west and covers all the park trails and boat landing.”

Registration fees are $20 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under.

Proceeds raised will be used for the repairs on the classic barn on the property.

“The barn was part of the original farm and adds to the picturesque nature of the preserve,” Rima said. “It is used for storage of the picnic tables and benches available for use at the park.”

Jorgens Park, sits on the property that was formerly owned by Carsten and Dora Jorgens, and is affiliated with the Iola-Scandinavia School Forest Project. It is often used for outdoor and environmental education purposes.

The park was created in honor of the Jorgens, and consists of 40 acres of rolling fields, meadows, wooded and wetland areas and sits on the shores of Silver Lake.

“The park is free to use by all and is maintained by volunteers in the community,” said Rima. “It offers outdoor enjoyment for all ages. There are trails that run through the woods and also a nine acre wild flower and prairie grass projects.”

In addition the park also features a large picnic shelter with a view of an osprey nest and Silver Lake, and also fishing piers.

Following the walk/run, participants will be treated to bakery and doughnuts from Iola Sentry Foods and Lemonade and coffee from Trout Bum Bakery.

Post-race activities will include a free game of bowling for all kids participating and buy one get one free soda or beer for adults, provided by Silver Lake Lanes.