The Savings Bank of London presented the first official donation to a fundraising campaign to install synthetic turf on the football field at London High School. On hand for the presentation were: (from left) London City Schools Superintendent Lou Kramer, district treasurer Kristine Blind, school board president Marv Homan, Savings Bank president Jeff Farthing, and Savings Bank senior vice-president Steve Lelonek.
(Posted Nov. 11, 2015)
By Kristy Zurbrick, Madison Editor
London City Schools has launched a fundraising campaign to install synthetic turf at the high school’s Bowlus Field.
The Savings Bank of London presented the first official donation on Nov. 4. The district’s goal is to cover over 80 percent of the project cost through corporate and community donations.
“Provided the project continues to receive broad community support, it is anticipated that the field will be installed and ready for competition for fall sports next school year,” said Dr. Lou Kramer, district superintendent.
The benefits the district hopes to reap from installing synthetic turf include:
- increased use of the field from 15 to 18 hours per week to 38 to 40 hours per week;
- increased access to Bowlus Field for high school, middle school, and elementary sports and co-curricular programs;
- opportunities to host district-sponsored band contests and sporting events, as well as Ohio High School Athletic Association post-season contests, rental by outside groups, and other public use;
- decreased maintenance costs; and
- increased concession stand revenues for booster groups due to increased field use.
“The Bowlus Field upgrade represents a grassroots campaign to upgrade the main athletic playing surface of the district to better serve district students, as well as the community,” Kramer stated.
“(The district) has enjoyed broad support from the community in the planning and upgrading of its athletic facilities in the past. This project does not require an increase of taxes nor does it speed up the need for an operating levy.”
Donation forms are available in each school office, in the district office, and by download from the district’s website at www.london.k12.oh.us. Those wishing to donate also may do so directly through the website.
