A priceless asset

The deal announced this week involving a transition of ownership at the Penner Athletic Courts facility is a huge win for the community. 
Ever since the 22,000 sq. ft. structure opened as a competition gymnasium in 2010, it has been a hub of activity for youth and their families. Basketballs and volleyballs have been bouncing year-around, seven days a week during some peak seasons, making it a go-to place for youngsters to work on their game. That tradition is going to continue, but it wasn’t a foregone conclusion by any means.
A story in this week’s ANR documents just how important the Penner family’s commitment to the community and its youth was and will continue to be for years to come. Locals may recall that the Penners recognized a need for more gym space some 15 years ago, and what started as a plan to build a small, single gym in an existing warehouse evolved into the full-blown facility which has long been part of Aurora’s front-door entrance from the west. It’s a first-class facility, inside and out, serving as another of many feathers in Aurora’s cap.
As the Penner family looked for someone to buy the PAC, the reality is that its book value listed much higher as a warehouse than as a competition gymnasium. The family remained committed to its initial vision, however, donating a significant sum in a deal that allowed the Bremer Center and local donors to take the reins with hopes of offering even more recreational programming to people of all ages.
That is exciting, indeed a perfect fit, especially in a day and age when recreational facilities and a sense of community are huge drawing cards to families looking for a place to call home. The PAC can now serve an even bigger role in keeping local citizens active, which has value that simply can’t be calculated in dollars and cents.
ANR has covered countless youth hoops events at the PAC over the years and heard families say what an impact it has had on family schedules by eliminating or reducing the need for before-school practices. Indeed, thousands of youngsters have logged hours and hours on those hardwood floors, some going on to successful collegiate careers at varying levels, with one native son set to make his debut next month in the NBA. In other words, the PAC is a place for youngsters to practice, improve and pursue their dreams, which makes it an invaluable community asset.
Aurora cannot thank the Penner family enough for its decision to build the PAC back in 2010, and for its contribution in 2024 to secure its future as a recreational facility. As is the goal for so many youngsters who have spent time at the PAC, their vision reflected “nothing but net.”
Kurt Johnson