ARCOLA - The Arcola Optimist Club is always supporting the community and this time it was at the Ed Hanna Play Park in Arcola.
From Sept. 1-4, several Optimist members and other volunteers could be seen at the park working long hours.
During this weekend, it was asked that people keep clear of the park while some upgrades took place, although some watched to see what the club was up to.
The wooden timbers around the play area had seen better days. They had become worn and started to splinter, so instead of waiting for someone to get hurt, the club stepped up to the plate to get them removed and replaced with better material.
Ed Hanna Park was named in honour of Hanna, who always had a smile. It was named in 1981.
Blue Imp is a company that specializes in playground equipment and accessories.
Manufactured in Medicine Hat, Alta., the border timber that would replace the wood is child-friendly and made from a special durable polyethylene.
It is easy to install, cost effective, weather resistant and maintenance free, and also made in Canada.
Pieces are cut to fit when needed and kept together with adaptors.
Alan Burton, a 30-year member of the Optimist Club, began removing the old timbers with the help of other volunteers.
JJ Trucking was also on hand, offering their services with the equipment needed to get the job done. The club is very thankful for JJ Trucking as they also helped with the pea stone that needed placing.
The three-day project saw many man hours to complete the task at hand and once again make it safe for the children.
According to Burton, without the support of volunteers and local businesses these large projects would never happen.
The other equipment at the park was supplied by the Optimist Club. Now with new edging the park has a fresh look.
It is their hope that children and families will have many more years of enjoyment in this park.
Another source of fun in Arcola, and one that the club looks after, is the Mac Murray Threatre. It will open once again the weekend of Oct. 13 and 14. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the movie beginning at 8 p.m.
They look forward to seeing everyone at the movies.
