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Village, donors celebrate new Manhattan dog park named for Dr. Scott Becker
Summary
Officials and donors gathered to mark construction progress and announce the dog park will open early this summer and be named "Doctor Scott Park" in memory of veterinarian Scott Becker; Earthrise Energy presented a $50,000 donation.
Village officials and park-district leaders recognized donors and announced the communitydog park will open early this summer and bear the name Doctor Scott Park in memory of the late veterinarian Scott Becker.
Mayor Mike Adrianson and trustees thanked the Village Park District, Metra and a long list of sponsors. Kate Becker, identified in the meeting as the widow of the late Dr. Scott Becker, spoke for friends and family. "This park stands as a testament to Dr. Scott's enduring legacy, celebrating his love for animals and his commitment to their well-being," she said. She told the board the donation funds were gathered after Dr. Beckers sudden death in 2020 and that the family and friends wanted a lasting tribute.
Representatives of corporate and nonprofit partners attended and spoke. Earthrise Energys development manager, Rob Kalbus, and Earthrise director of community engagement, Talia Tupper, presented a contribution; Tupper said, "We have contributed $50,000 to this park over the last 2 years, and we cannot wait for it to open." Other named supporters included Metra, Manhattan Park District, Grand Prairie Animal Hospital (Dr. James McMahon), Dynasty Utility Services and the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce.
Village staff reported construction work is underway on electrical, plumbing and fencing; the mayor said the park will open early this summer. Metra staff thanked the village and park district for coordinating the project and confirmed Metra property is being made available for the site.
Why it matters: the park fills a long-sought community recreational need, and the naming recognizes a local veterinarian who served area families and animals.
Speakers quoted or referenced in this article are listed in the speaker roster below.
