The Take Part in Our Parks fundraiser generated enough funding to install an ADA compliant ramp at the Anderson Pavilion amphitheater at Veteran's Memorial Park.
As the weather gets warmer, the City Parks Department has been busy getting ready for upcoming spring and summer events. "It's only March and I've already been working on irrigation and cleaning out flowerbeds. Last year it seemed like we were behind schedule, but this year it looks like we're getting a jump-start on projects," said City Parks Superintendent and Richland County Tree Board Secretary, Stephanie Ridl.
The installation of playground equipment is almost complete at Lalonde Park; the new equipment was donated by the Kringen family in honor of Randy Kringen. Two slides will be installed shortly, and then weed fabric, ground cover, and additional border will add the finishing touches.
In April, current Compliance Officer Jeff Mead will be transferring to the City Parks Department and will become their second full-time employee.
Depending on when the shipment of trees can be scheduled, the Re-Tree Richland County workshop will be held the first or second weekend in May at the Sidney Country Club. This is a free hands-on workshop which teaches people proper tree planting and care techniques and also gives instructions on how to determine the appropriate tree for a given space. Multiple species of free 6' to 8' trees are available to those interested Richland County residents. Ridl is asking that everyone who's interested in attending the class fill out an application regardless of whether or not they would like a tree; this will give a tentative head count as breakfast and lunch will be served. Applications will be available April 1 and can be picked up and dropped off or mailed to Sidney City Hall, 115 2nd St. SE, Sidney, MT, 59270. A site evaluation will be reviewed by Richland County Tree Board members and will help individuals determine the best type of tree for planting. The property owner must attend the Re-Tree workshop and then plant and maintain the tree. There is a limit of one tree per property per year.
Take Part in Our Park has raised $9,950.00 so far, which will cover the cost of an ADA compliant ramp up to the Anderson Pavilion amphitheater. The City Parks Department is still taking donations, and all funds received from this point will go towards a handicapped accessible seating arrangement in Veteran's Memorial Park. The Take Part in Our Park fundraiser was initiated when it was decided to host the Billings Symphony Orchestra, July 8. The free concert is part of a trifecta event including Shakespeare in the Park Thursday, July 7, and the Sunrise Festival of the Arts Saturday, July 9. Non-profit organizations have an opportunity to raise funds as food vendors July 8 and 9 and anyone interested should contact the Sidney Area Chamber at 406-433- 1916 or visit them online at http://www.sidneymt.com for more information.
Though these quickly approaching events are at the forefront of Ridl's attention, there will be a lot of renovating at the South Meadow Softball Complex in preparation for Sidney hosting the 2017 State Softball Tournament. Some of the project goals include building new dugouts and installing new fencing.
"If we can host the Billings Symphony in the park and the State Softball Tournament and people are impressed, then we can bring in similar events," commented Ridl on how the community would benefit. She added, "I am excited for this year and hope to get a lot accomplished."
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