The Glidden Wellness Center celebrated one year of operation last December and this past Friday received an award during a special ceremony at Iowa’s capitol. The project received first place in the Renovated Civic category for the 2015 Best Development Awards. The project took the former dilapidated Glidden Graphic Newspaper building and converted it into a modern fitness center. The extensive remodel included rebuilding a crumbling west wall, repairing the roof, the installation of new windows and front entrance doors, refinishing some original flooring, and creating new shower and restroom space along with other enhancements for residents to enjoy. Fundraising efforts were set in motion in late 2013 and the project achieved its set fundraising goal of $450,000 and then some. Glidden Mayor Roger Hartwigsen says a lot of credit goes to the community for backing the project. At the awards ceremony on Friday 1,000 Friends of Iowa presented the award to Glidden city leaders, committee members, and local Representative Brian Best. The group accepted an award plaque on the floor of the Iowa House of Representatives.
