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The peaceful serenity of Hollister’s Town Hall Park , |
At the dedication of Hollister’s newest park, Town Hall Square, it became readily apparent that its building and dedication is in large part because of the spirit of its citizens, businesses, city staff, and others of kindred spirit working together to achieve a common goal for the enhancement and enjoyment of the entire community. The setting of the park, commemorative bricks, its quarter mile walking trail passing over an authentic miniaturized replica of the historic St. James Street Bridge, strategically placed benches, planted trees and the parks distinctive period lighting serve as an ongoing testimony to that spirit and the planning, care, effort, and personal dedication that went into making Town Hall Square Park the wonderful reality it is.
Hollister Park Board Chairman, Tom Linkous said Town Hall Park has been about a three year project, starting in 2005. He pointed out that the park would not have become a reality without the efforts and hard work and donations of a lot of people and businesses. He singled out and recognized Chad Fuqua, Director of Hollister’s Park Department who also gave special recognition to Mike Alves who is also with the Hollister Parks Department. Linkous also acknowledged the current Park Board Members, Garland Dimetroff, Scott McCaulley, Jon Williams, Tim Corbell, Janice Sarver, and Tina Mefford for their efforts and support in making the park become a reality.
After the formal unveiling of the parks name plaque there was a reception in Hollister City Hall during which Rick Ziegenfuss, Hollister City Administrator, gave a video presentation on the history of the park. It showed the evolution of the area that has become Town Hall Square Park from the fire destroying the old maintenance-charcoal plant building previously occupying a major portion of the site into the recreational asset it has become today including the restoration process that was used on the historical St. James Street Bridge.
In concluding his presentation Ziegenfuss said, “The quality of life is a big issue in our city.” He went on to praise Hollister’s elected officials, city staff, appointed board members, and the public, including local businesses that do so much for the quality of life of Hollister’s residents. One can just look at Town Hall Square Park and feel the spirit and reality of what Ziegenfuss was saying.
Reprinted with permission of the Tri-Lakes Tribune, a free newspaper published and distributed three times weekly, Sunday, Wednesday and Friday. Please call 417-336-NEWS (6397) for classified and display advertising opportunities.
