Anybody in the world can watch demolition

A live-streaming video camera was set up in the alley facing George’s Ballroom by Big Ideas. Since Monday, the public has been able to watch live footage of the demolition process. The live stream video can be accessed on the Big Ideas website: BigIdeasUSA.org.

In the right-hand corner is the yellow “watch live” that will take visitors to the video. The camera records work between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Viewers can also playback footage to view the work they missed.

Big Ideas is a nonprofit that works to expose students of all ages to different trade careers. Mary Ann Christensen, the co-founder and president of Big Ideas said their mission was to inform, inspire, and connect curious learners ages 13 and older to career paths and professionals in skilled trades.

Christensen said the demolition at George’s Ballroom offered a unique opportunity for Big Idea. The type of work needed to demo the building was in line with what they were promoting. In addition, George’s demolition was literally in their backyard. Big Ideas offices are located on the alley just down from the former ballroom.

A screenshot of a video taken from Big Ideas live-stream of the George’s Ballroom demolition. The image was taken from from Tuesday’s mornings footage. The live stream is available on Big Ideas website: BigIdeas USA.org. Submitted photo

Big Ideas Executive Director Ryan Ott came up with the idea to live stream the demolition process and share it with the public. He contacted Jason Lewis, co-owner of Current Connections about setting up a streaming system. Current Connections specializes in electrical and tech solution businesses and residents.

Lewis and business partner Brad Dobie were able to set up a high-resolution security camera that could transmit a livestream video. Lewis and Dobie wired the camera and create a connection in less than a day. The camera was placed on a building adjacent to Big Ideas’ office.

Since the demolition began, the video feed has been viewed by thousands of people with over 540 hours watched, on the first day. The numbers are expected to increase over the next few weeks of demolition.

Through the live stream, Big Ideas is showcasing the hands-on expertise and artistry of skilled trades professionals in action.

“This is our mission,” Christensen said. “It fit perfectly.”

“This is a great way to inspire people,” Anna Hughes, Big Ideas director of sales and outreach, said. “To see a real-world demolition site is great. This is also safer than bringing a class to the site. It’s also a lot warmer.”

Big Ideas training instructor Joe Schotzko confirmed the live stream is playing at the New Ulm Middle School library for students and staff.

Christensen said this project is a fascinating example of the different trade professions in action. There is the demolition work, but drivers are also transporting away debris.

“What you are seeing is the tip of the iceberg,” Christensen said. “Every step of the process is important.”

The work is also important because it centers around the demolition of George’s Ballroom, which is a historic building that has touched many lives. Allowing people to see the video of the building’s final days is important to many people.

Over the last two days, Big Ideas staff has heard many people share stories about their time at George’s.

“It is still surprising how much George’s meant to people,” Hughes said. “It is really amazing.”

The live stream will continue throughout the demolition process, which is expected to take three weeks.

After the demolition is complete, Current Connections will compile the video recorded and create a time-lapse video of the entire demolition.