For Immediate Release: Wednesday, May 19, 2004

Contact: Nicole Nordbye, (605) 773-3301 or nicole.nordbye@state.sd.us

Aberdeen’s Wylie Park Nationally Recognized

PIERRE, S.D. – Wylie Park in Aberdeen has been named one of the 2004 Top 10 Lawns for Family Fun by Briggs & Stratton, a Milwaukee-based small engine manufacturer. Wylie Park was one of the nominations submitted by the South Dakota Office of Tourism. 

“I am very pleased the officials at Briggs & Stratton recognized what South Dakotans have always known,” said Patricia Van Gerpen, director of the South Dakota Office of Tourism. “Wylie Park is a picture-perfect backdrop for family activities. This national recognition places Aberdeen and Wylie Park in the distinct company of some of the most beautiful parks in America.”

This year, the all-around best lawn for family fun will be determined by the public through Internet voting at www.toptenlawns.com. The votes will be tallied and the winning lawn will be announced June 9, 2004.

State tourism officials and lawn and garden media nominated lawns throughout March. Briggs & Stratton, Turfgrass Producers International and Yard Doctor Trey Rogers evaluated the nominations and determined the 10 finalists based on overall appearance, lawn/garden maintenance and suitability for family activities.

“Briggs & Stratton is proud to announce the Top 10 Lawns for Family Fun – all of which are fun, relaxing spots to spend time with loved ones,” said Anita Fisher, marketing communications manager for Briggs & Stratton. “We’re eager to find out which lawn will earn the most votes. Regardless, as the weather warms up and families start looking for outdoor fun, they should definitely check out the Top 10 Lawns for Family Fun.”

The 2004 Top 10 Lawns for Family Fun include:

Chicago Botanic Garden – Glencoe, Ill.

Cranbrook Educational Community – Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

Finlay Park – Columbia, S.C.

Harriet Island Park – St. Paul, Minn.

Loose Park – Kansas City, Mo.

Point Fermin Park – San Pedro, Calif.

Stone Mountain Park – Stone Mountain, Ga.

Waterfront Park – Louisville, Ky.

Woodson Art Museum’s Sculpture Garden – Wausau, Wis.

Wylie Park –Aberdeen, S.D.

This marks the second time Briggs & Stratton has recognized the excellence of South Dakota lawns. The South Dakota State Capitol was chosen as one of the 2002 Top 10 Lawns.

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