The $70,000 goal set by Friends of Lake Panorama to provide new play equipment at both Shady and Boulder beaches was reached in late October. Fundraising kicked off just a year ago, and had strong support from donors throughout the last 12 months. The August 1 Beach Ball, which raised about $30,000, provided a big boost.
The equipment for Shady Beach, which was ordered in late July, was installed the third week in October. A drainage tile and final grading and mulching was completed the first week of November, and the playground now is open.
The new equipment includes a multi-faceted play set, three swings, and a freestanding “spring rider” designed to accommodate a physically challenged child. The spring rider has space for two children.
One bench is located within the mulched area of the Shady Beach playground. It was given by the Pauk family in member of Ray Michael Pals. A memorial plaque will be installed on the bench next spring.
The Boulder Beach play equipment will be ordered in early December for spring delivery. The gray mountain and play set currently there will remain. A spring rider like the one at Shady Beach will be added.
The Bill Priestley family has purchased a swinging bench in his memory, which will be installed in the spring in the original playground footprint. A new playground nearby will include a play set with features geared to both older and younger kids, plus three swings.
For those still interested in helping with these two playground projects, there is room for more benches and more spring riders at both locations. Any additional donations designated to the playgrounds through the end of 2020 will be used in this way.
All donations are tax-deductible. Checks made payable to Friends of Lake Panorama can be mailed to PO Box 488, Panora, Iowa, 50216. Donors should include a note the funds are to be used for the playgrounds.
Donors of $500 or more will be recognized on signs erected in the spring near both playgrounds and on the Friends website.