The first annual Freezin For A Reason New Years Eve 5k was a success, minus the 5k part. Concern for the safety of the participants due to the dangerous temperatures led me to cancel the run/walk part but the community still came together and shared a meal, memories, tears and laughter in honor of my son Gunnar Anderson on the anniversary of his passing.
It was a tough day but being surrounded by so many people and so much love made the focus not on what we have lost but rather a celebration of his life.
Financially it was also a success. Through sales of the T-shirts and donations in general the Gunnar Anderson Memorial Fund raised money that will all be allocated back into our community through scholarships dedicated to help inspire youth to go out into the world and Be The Change.
There are so many people that helped make this happen and that I would like to thank. First of all, Gunnar for making a difference in the lives of so many and inspiring us all to do the same. Andrea Everson – this was her original vision and she came up with the catchy name and helped every step of the way. Valerie Marasco for all her guidance as director of Emergency Management & Public Information, WTIP, Cook County News-Herald and Visit Cook County for all the publicity and support, Kelly Summers and ArtForms for all the help with the T-shirt ordering, Bethlehem Lutheran Church for allowing us to host the event there, many of my close friends coming to the event early and staying late to help, Security State Insurance, James and Christy Marshall for providing an amazing meal, Java Moose for donating their coffee, Hilja Iverson for her hot cocoa bar and lefse, the ladies who made the homemade desserts, and of course every single person who bought a T-shirt, donated or in any way shared the day with Gunnar’s family. There are many more to mention but if I am missing anyone, I apologize.
Being the first year for this event, it was definitely a learning experience! Although we cannot predict the weather and I will make some changes in the future, overall I believe this is an event worth repeating and will absolutely take place again next year.
If you would like to donate to a scholarship through the Gunnar Anderson Memorial Fund you can do so at the Grand Marais State Bank (218-387- 2441) and if you have any questions or would like more information you can contact Jes Rodne at 370-9813 or bethechange41394@gmail.com.
Jes Rodne
Grand Marais
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