MOUNT VERNON — The new splash pad at Riverside Park, formally called Captain Hunter’s Landing and dedicated to the memory of Hunter Wright, features a pirate theme.
The Kokosing Valley Rotary Club, with permission from the Wright family, commissioned carving artist David Crego to carve pirate pieces from an existing tree on the site. The tree was taken down, dried, carved, and returned to the splash pad in the form of carved pieces.
Pieces include a handsome pirate, a palm tree, a treasure chest, several benches, and some tropical birds. Crego painted the pieces in Caribbean colors to add to the playfulness of the splash pad.
The project began under the leadership of former KVRC President Jane Fricke and continued through the presidential year of Kelly Welker.
KVRC president-elect Mike Pryjda was instrumental in the entire project. He constantly coordinated with the city’s engineering office on the timetable and placement. City Engineer Brian Ball coordinated with the Wright family to determine their wishes for the splash pad.
The city invited the club to the private Wright family dedication service and tour of the new city facility in May. Last week, under the leadership of new President Kristy Roby, the club held its monthly meeting at the splash pad to review the finished project.
The splash pad officially opened on May 24.
Service Above Self is the culture of Rotary. Although each club around the world is different, we all strive to serve our fellow mankind.
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