LEAVITTSBURG — When LaBrae’s new school was constructed, several individuals believed that a Legacy Wall should be built.

Community members and school representatives felt there were several reasons for this.

First, a fund-raiser would be needed to expand the athletic facilities, especially the track. Second, there were several individuals who wanted their names associated with LaBrae –– staff members, alumni, and community members. In some instances, the wall would serve as a memorial. Others felt that LaBrae was experiencing a new beginning, and they just wanted to show support.

Some of the concerned individuals decided to form a committee. Committee members are Don Bishop, Dave Zelenak, Ted Steigerwald, Debbie D’Orio, Perry Nicholas, and Larry Sanderson.

Committee members said some contributors may have had a good experience with the school or the staff, and wanted their name associated with the new facility in some way. Finally, it was felt that a Legacy Wall would add to the aesthetics of the school’s campus.

‘‘We needed to decide where to put the wall. At first, it was discussed that the wall should be in the front of the school. After talking with the school’s architect, it was finally decided to place the Legacy Wall near the stadium. Purchased plaques would be located in the wall, and bricks would be located in a walkway,” Bishop said.

The original company contracted to complete the project switched owners before the wall was completed. For a while, the project remained unfinished.

Bishop said the Legacy Wall Committee searched for a company or a contractor who would be able to finish the wall. After a lengthy search, Brent Sollenberger from Cleveland recently completed the project. Bishop then was able to notify all those who purchased a plaque or brick that had not been cemented into the wall or walkway when the original company switched owners, that the wall was now completed.

A total of $15,040 was used on the track from the profits made on the wall project. There is now a balance of $6800. There are a few plaques and bricks still available on the wall. Anyone interested in purchasing those spaces should contact Debbie D’Orio at 330-898-2390.

By The Tribune Chronicle