CIVIC EFFORT LAUNCHED TO COMPLETE FREEDOM MEMORIAL
A coalition of civic leaders with a track record of success
has joined forces with the Freedom Memorial Foundation to finish the monument
on Golden Gate Parkway.
The Freedom Memorial, in the shape of an unfurled American
flag and made of granite, is a cornerstone of Fred W. Coyle Freedom Park east
of Goodlette-Frank Road, near the northern end of the new Gordon River
Greenway.
Since breaking ground in 2009, saluting 9/11 victims as well
as past and present veterans and first-responders, the project encountered
obstacles including the recession and the lack of federal tax-deductible status
for donors, now resolved.
Now, backed by new civic resolve and a lead contractor, Todd
Gates, donating much of the construction work, the Freedom Memorial, designed
by Naples resident Gerald A. Ladue, is back in the spotlight and seeking
donations.
A leader of the revival, Naples Mayor John Sorey, points to
the unfinished monument’s location at a key community gateway and asks: “Do you
agree with me that this reflects poorly on our community?’’
There are three ways for the public to help:
* Buying memorial pavers for $100 and $300 engraved with
names of donors or loved ones. The pavers will join others already installed as
permanent parts of the Freedom Memorial.
* Making donations. Donors of $1,000 or more will have their
names permanently engraved on plaques at the Freedom Memorial. The $100,000
donor level is aptly named: Hero.
* Buying tickets or sponsorships to a Feb. 20 patriotic
celebration – Remember, Respect, Honor – Forever! - at Freedom Park to,
officials hope, put the fundraising campaign over the top. Tickets are $250 and
$500, including dinner catered by Shula’s Steak House.
For more information:
Phone: (239) 254-3169
Mail: 6017 Pine Ridge
Road, No. 249, Naples, 34119
Email:
freedommemorialfoundationnaples@yahoo.com
