What seemed like merely a dream 2 years ago for the Langdon Community Association (LCA) became a reality on June 01 for the small town. Where there was once an old, unsafe play structure, now sits a brand new playground.
The grand opening for Langdon Park was a successful event that saw approximately 300 people enjoy a free family BBQ with cake and of course a ton of fun on the cool new playground which is located just off of the hamlet’s main street, near the popular Langdon Field House. Within the 28 acre site of Langdon Park, you will also find a skateboard park, outdoor ice skating rink, softballs fields, and soccer fields.
Shauna Baerwaldt is the President of the LCA and was on hand at the grand opening to welcome the community families to the new structure. Baerwaldt explained that the old play structure that was onsite years ago was no longer safe and so the LCA decided to bring the community a new park.
“We are here to celebrate something big that the LCA was able to accomplish and I would like to personally thank Chrissy Craig, the Vice-President of the LCA – it was her mission 2 years ago to take on fundraising, meetings and grant proposals to raise enough money to build this playground so without Chrissy we probably would not have had this playground as quickly as we did get it.”
According to Craig, the playground cost $130,000 and was paid for through fundraising and grants. Fundraising events included craft days, movie nights, penny drives, 50/50 draws and other community initiatives. “We received two grants, one from the Alberta Government that covered a third of the cost and another from the County of Rocky View for another third. The rest came through local fundraising projects,” explained Craig.
Chestermere Rocky View MLA Bruce McAllister was on hand with his family, to share in the excitement and congratulate the town of Langdon on its achievement. “This is community isn’t it – this is the best way to define it. I really appreciate and get what it is you are doing here and I think it’s great,” said McAllister.
“Langdon truly is a great town and I just want to say congratulations to all of you who have made this happen – nothing gets done more quickly than when a community gets behind a project. LCA – I would like to give everyone a hand who spearheaded this project, you all deserve congratulations,” adds McAllister.
The old playground is going to be donated to the Emmanuel Foundation for International Community Development. They exist to create hope for a better tomorrow for individuals, families and communities in developing countries.
“Thank you to all the volunteers – from the ground preparation to all the people who brought food and drinks to the building crew, we are so thankful for everyone’s help,” says Baerwaldt, “This is a dream come true.”
