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Updated at: 12/18/2009 10:13 AM Students Build Ely Recreational CenterTwo years after breaking ground, the Ely Recreational Center will open its doors this Saturday. "Whoa, it's here. It's actually opening. It's really awesome!," said Ely student Shelby Maidl. From top to bottom the center was built by students of the Iron Range Youth in Action. The organization is present in 13 Iron Range schools and sponsored by St. Louis county. Before the recreational center construction began, students had to raise money. Director of the Iron Range Youth in Action, Chris Ismil said, "It started with selling hot dogs and hamburgers on the street all the way to soliciting local businesses and fundraisers at school". Students even ventured to St. Paul to help their cause. "We went down to the State Capital and we lobbied. We did digital computer models of the building so they knew what it looked like inside," said Ely student Maggie Jesme. Grant writing and lobbying were just the beginning. Group members also learned about constructing a building. "We started like getting the ground ready and than we put in the foundation. We were all there to help nail the walls together and finally put them up," said Jesme. Wesley Blake, from Mt. Iron-Buhl said, "Pretty much everything inside we've done from insulating to plastic, to helping put sheet rock up." Once the doors open, kids will be able to watch movies, play ping-pong and even snack at the deli-style lounge. The Iron Range Youth in Action Director Chris Ismil, says the facility is more than just a place for kids to hang out. "What we want to do is provide opportunities for kids to be engaged and do productive things that encompass exercise or tutoring". Students raised $200,000 cash in hand and received $150,000 in donated labor.
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