NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (North Platte Post)- The NEBRASKAland DAYS Foundation has launched a campaign to raise money to rebuild the west entrance of the Wild West Arena. The goal is to sell enough bricks to fill the area underneath a new entry pavilion that will serve as the centerpiece for the redesigned west entryway.
“Thousands of people come through the gates of the Wild West Arena every year,” says Foundation President Larry Stobbs. “It seems a shame have them walk through the entrance we have.”
NEBRASKAland DAYS Board President Lance Carlson says the current entrance has a number of qualities that don’t exactly reflect well on one of North Platte’s biggest attractions. “When people walk in they are met with chain link and barbed wire. It kind of feels like you’re walking into a prison,” says Carlson. “The new design will be much more warm and inviting. It also allows us to open the space up a bit inside the vendor area, allowing us to expand our offerings.”
The Foundation’s goal is to sell 800 bricks to pave the new entrance. Prices range from $150 to $3000 per unit. “We wanted a campaign that allows anyone who has enjoyed our facility throughout the years to participate. We think we have done just that,” said Stobbs.
2012 marks the 45th year that NEBRASKAland DAYS will be held in North Platte. The entrance renovation marks the first major aesthetic upgrade since a new crow’s nest was installed above the bucking chutes over a decade ago.
Donors may surf to the NEBRASKAland DAYS Website and click on the Foundation’s page. Brick’s can be ordered and payment can be submitted directly through the website. Forms can also be picked up at the NEBRASKAland DAYS office.
The NEBRASKAland DAYS Foundation is a 501c3 entity. All donations are tax deductible as provided by law.