The pavilion was made possible by a donation from Rick and Marty Lagina. The Laginas, stars of History Channel’s “The Curse of Oak Island” grew up near the park. They each donated $50,000 to build a pavilion in memory of their parents.

The 20-foot by 28-foot pavilion has lights and outlets and a paved path from the parking area.

“It’s wonderful that they made this contribution that will benefit the citizens and will leave a legacy that will last for generations,” City Manager Mike Stelmaszek said.

They made the donation while in town for the city’s centennial celebration in 2023, during which they served as grand marshals for the centennial parade. Any leftover money will go toward pirate-themed playground equipment. Final bills haven’t been received, so the city isn’t sure how much money is left, Stelmaszek noted.

A PLAQUE AT the new Ford Park Pavilion tributes George and Ann Lagina.

The pavilion is in memory of George and Ann Lagina, long-time Kingsford residents who both passed away in 2010. Originally the money was donated to build a gazebo, but they decided they wanted a pavilion instead. The city has installed a plaque near the pavilion entrance.

The cement slab was laid last summer by Shad Brown Excavating and Snow Removal of Niagara, Wis. for $4,932. The pavilion kit was purchased from Amish Country for $25,181 and completed this spring by MBM Construction of Kingsford. Electrical work was finished in early June.

The city will pass out hot dogs, chips and soda. After the ribbon cutting, the pavilion will go into rotation so people can reserve it, Stelmaszek said.

“The Curse of Oak Island” is a multi-season reality television series that chronicles a team of treasure hunters and their search for legendary treasure on Oak Island off the shore of Nova Scotia.

The annual Ford Addition Fourth of July parade will be held after the ribbon cutting, starting at 6:30 p.m.

Marguerite Lanthier can be reached at 906-774-3500, ext. 85242, or mlanthier@ironmountaindailynews.com.