“We want to recognize what we have accomplished with our awesome community,” said LAPP President Allison Lucier. “We encourage everyone to come and try out the new equipment, play some games and enjoy treats at the park.”

The free, family-friendly event will feature yard games, a bake sale and concessions, including popcorn, frozen pops, soda and water. LAPP merchandise also will be available for purchase.

Board members will be on hand to answer questions about the playground project and other LAPP initiatives.

The event comes as LAPP enters the final push of its “Everyone Plays!” fundraising campaign. The nonprofit is seeking to raise about $57,000 by the end of September to complete Phase II of its accessible playground project, which has an estimated total cost of $150,000.

Lake Antoine Park Partners President Allison Lucier, far right, greets the Khoury family at the park’s beachfront playground. From left are Alex, Elena, Alan, Mila and Ella; in front is Lila. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

“The community has been amazing — we’re so grateful for the many donations we received so far,” Lucier said. “Now we are down to the wire to reach our goal.”

Phase II will add several new play features, including an Inclusive Whirl zero-transfer spinner, Infinity Bowl spinner, Rockin Robin egg-shaped rocker, an ADA swing frame with two adaptive seats, and an inclusive inchworm climber. Like Phase I, the new equipment will be installed on a synthetic turf safety surface.

“Construction will begin after the park closes this fall,” Lucier said.

LAPP’s mission is to create a playground where every child feels welcome. The “Everyone Plays!” campaign reflects the organization’s commitment to inclusive, multigenerational play opportunities for people of all physical and cognitive abilities.

The first phase of the project, completed in 2025, included three types of swings on a synthetic turf surface, sensory panels and musical elements. The project also added six accessible parking spaces, a 350-foot sidewalk connecting the play areas to the beach house, benches and picnic tables.

Lucier said LAPP expects several smaller grants to come through this summer; however, funds will still be needed to complete the project.

“We’re extremely appreciative for the support during the entire process,” she said. “We wouldn’t been able to make it this far without everyone’s help.”

LAPP will continue selling popcorn and water during summer music concerts at the band shell to raise funds for the playground project.

The organization also will be the beneficiary of the Aug. 9 Sunday FUNdraiser Day at Sandstone Terrace in Iron Mountain. The event will run from 3 to 7 p.m., with admission proceeds supporting the campaign.

The annual Crafty Flea Market is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at the campground area of Lake Antoine Park.

Those unable to attend the Sunday Funday event but who wish to donate can mail checks payable to Lake Antoine Park Partners to P.O. Box 609, Iron Mountain, MI 49801. Donations also can be made through LAPP’s Facebook page or website at https://lakeantoine.org by selecting the support playground tab.

“Everyone is encouraged to come to the park, try out the new playground, grab a treat, play some games and relax,” Lucier said. “We are looking forward to a fun day at Lake Antoine.”

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Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.