Donors set the stage for Spencer project

The village of Spencer has an opportunity ahead of it. Community leaders are rallying to raise money for a covered stage/shelter for the Lions Park. The goal is to eventually build a shelter that could hold somewhere between 300 and 350 people, with the stage on one end. The estimated total construction cost is $282,920.

Village officials plan to have the work done in phases, as funds are raised. The first phase will include the stage itself and the first approximately 25 feet of roof to cover the stage. It will not include extra room for seating. The plan is to at least complete the first phase in 2023.

Longtime village residents Wayne and Pauline Frome have agreed to match all donations made before Jan. 28, up to $25,000.

“It mostly started because Deb (Schafer, village deputy clerk) had the idea. I wanted to do something to support the village, so I asked her what options I would have. Eventually we settled on this,” said Wayne. “Part of it was because of the Loyal Splash Pad. I never thought that would ever fly, but it’s really taken off. After seeing the generosity of that, I thought, ‘Why not Spencer?’ Lots of towns have their own community projects, so let’s get Spencer on the ball here. I know we can do it; we’ve done it before.”

He cited the school dome and the police department’s K9 program as examples of when residents came together to raise funds for the betterment of the whole community.

This stage will provide a space for the Spencerama bands to perform. Spencer also has a “Music in the Park” series throughout August, so those musicians will be able to use the platform. Having a shelter like this could spark ideas for other events too.

“For the bands during Spencerama, we have a couple of soft-sided truck trailers that we park together and hope it doesn’t rain,” said village administrator/clerk-treasurer Paul Hensch. “This would give us a more permanent structure and protection in case of inclement weather… I think it would be a good addition to the community.”

A citizen committee has been working on the project for about four to five months. Several groups have already gotten on board to support the project, including the Lions and Spencer Women’s clubs, local businesses and individuals. The village is looking into various sources of funding, including a Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation “Vibrant Spaces” grant worth $50,000. The grant application must be submitted by Jan. 31.

The Fromes are excited to support the project, continuing their legacy of helping the community they have lived in for more than 47 years. Over the years, they have supported the Spencer Kids Group, K9 unit, fire department, Loyal Car Show and Never Forgotten Honor Flight.

“We’ve been very, very fortunate. We are in a situation where we can give a lot of money, so we just have to pick what we want to donate to. We like to support local causes,” said Wayne.

He and Pauline hope that their matching offer will encourage people to give.

Monetary donations are welcome. Checks should be made out to the village of Spencer. The mailing address is P.O. Box 360, Spencer, WI 54479. Letters of support will also help the project. People can also stop by the village office, call 715-659-5423 or email deputyclerk@vil.spencer. wi.us for more information.

This rendering from Funktion Design Studio of Wausau shows what the proposed stage in the Spencer Lions Park would look like. Wayne and Pauline Frome are offering $25,000 in matching funds for any donations made through Friday. Contact the Spencer Village Hall at 715-659-5423 for more information.

SUBMITTED RENDERING