FARM BUREAU GIVES BACK
Aerial view of the Lacey Recreation Complex – Fall 2015
Mahaska Community Recreation Foundation (MCRF) Board welcomed guests from Mahaska County Farm Bureau at their quarterly board meeting July 26th for some very exciting news! MCRF Board Member Carl Drost introduced the partnership between Farm Bureau and MCRF to install a new picnic area east of the football stadium for community use.
MCRF originally received a grant from Mahaska County Community Foundation for $10,400 to start the project. Following the grant, Carl visited with Mahaska County Farm Bureau who liked the project and wanted to get involved. The project grew, and the Mahaska County Farm Bureau added $20,000 to make a long lasting shelter for the picnic area. “This is an exciting project and good for the rec groups and good use of the facilities,” stated Carl.
He brought plans and pictures to share with the board as well as a sample of the durable roof material to be used. This is a good project for the community, and we [Farm Bureau] want to be involved in the community,” stated Steve Wanders, President of Farm Bureau.
Farm Bureau Board Member Don Voss added that he asked his grandchildren, who play at the complex, if this would be a good opportunity and if they would use this space to rest between games for the kids who come and play in tournaments on the weekend. They all replied it would be great, and that sealed the deal. “It’s a perfect fit. Gives a good place to rest for all the recreation activities out there. We’re excited to see it started and just glad to be a part of it.” said Don Vos.
The ground for the picnic area was previously grated when Carl hosted a volunteer “dozer day” and will make a good spot for teams to eat lunch and warm up for their upcoming games.
MCRF President John Pothoven thanked the Farm Bureau on behalf of MCRF stating how tremendous it was for the Farm Bureau to give to this project in cooperation between rural and urban for the community to use.
Joe Crookham, MCRF Treasurer, added, “That’s the way we build a community, thank you to those who make it happen.” The completed picnic area is planned to be installed yet this year.
