A Walk in the Park (#23)

I must confess I haven’t been walking in the park these last few weeks and I suspect many of you haven’t either. The snow and frigid temperatures saw me inside, cozied up to the fire. I am sure some brave souls still ventured out to explore in the cold, but I wasn’t one of them. However, the warmer temperatures in the forecast next week look promising, and I am hopeful I’ll see many of you enjoying the park again!

Watching all that has happened these past few weeks – even from afar – has been exciting, and there is much to celebrate! Phase 2 work is officially complete, and the fund-raising goal of $250,000 was met and exceeded.

As we look forward to the next phase, a special thanks goes to the Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO) and their Everyone Outdoors Grant Program for providing a $10,000 grant to help fund Phase 3’s fully accessible playground – the “heart of the park.” The playground will feature poured-in-place rubber surfacing and playground equipment designed for children of all abilities, ensuring they can all enjoy outdoor play safely. This is just one more step in our ongoing commitment to creating a space where everyone can experience community, belonging, and adventure. I can’t wait to see the playground filled with the joyful energy of happy children!

The Arbor Day Planting Event, which will be held on April 26, was also announced recently. Volunteers will be needed to help with planting and other activities, and this event will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with friends and neighbors in the park. I’ve been waiting for this time since last fall and look forward to seeing these new saplings grow and transform the park in the years to come.

Be sure to keep an eye on the Northeast Community Park website, Facebook page, and event announcements to find out how you can participate. I look forward to seeing you at the park!