A donation from the veterans group helps with playground Playgrounds don't build themselves. When officials from the Town of Ogden decided that a wooden playground structure at Pineway Ponds Park was nearing the end of its life expectancy, plans to build a new playground emerged. Through the help of the Ferris Goodridge American Legion Post No. 330, that plan became a reality. The local veterans group recently donated $14,000 to offset the costs of the new hard plastic structure, priced at about $34,000. Town officials recently met with legion members to recognize the partnership, which Ogden Supervisor Gay Lenhard said the community can value. "It's a wonderful project and we're very excited about it," Lenhard said. "They have provided their own legacy by providing almost half the funds necessary." The group was able to contribute the money by hosting the Vietnam Combat Veterans Limited Moving Wall last June. The moving wall, an exact replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., travels across the nation as an important reminder of those Americans who gave their lives to maintain our freedoms. Mike Schwartz, legion second vice commander, who helped organize the wall's stay at post headquarters on Trimmer Road, said thousands of people visited the monument. For many, it reflects the sacrifices of thousands of soldiers, he said, while for some, the wall served as a therapy of sorts. "We had Vietnam veterans out in the middle of the night," Schwartz said. "It gives people an opportunity to see it who wouldn't otherwise and help educate our youth about that era." Because of the success of the event, Schwartz said it was evident the group would have enough extra money raised to donate back into the community. He said a committee comprised of legion members and village business owners decided that the playground project would be a perfect charity. "That's one of the missions of the American Legion," he added. "We make no money for profit, we just keep enough to cover our expenses. Because we only used what funds we needed, we gave it back to the community." Through the group's donation, the new playground was erected late last year and the 16-year old wooden structure was removed. Lenhard said the refurbishing of Pineway Ponds Park is something residents can take pride in and appreciate those who helped bring the plan to light. "It served its purpose and outlived its usefulness as it deteriorated," Lenhard said. "They need to be very proud of themselves. They raised enough money to make a difference." For more information on the Vietnam Veterans Moving Wall, visit the World Wide Web at www.themovingwall.org. |
