” Do small things with great love.” – Mother Teresa
We appreciate being included in the 30-year celebration. Steve and I can’t take credit for the dedicated work that these wonderful people have done for so many years in McMichael Park. Our role over the years has been on an informal basis since the park is literally right outside our front door.
Steve had been picking up trash and debris in the park before I even knew him. I can tell you there have been so many times when we were going out in the car and he would spot a piece of trash in the park and he would stop the car and get out and pick it up. I’d have to keep hand wipes in the car at all times; otherwise, we’d have to return home so he could wash his hands. I also picked up trash and debris when I saw it. Steve’s knees have gotten worse over the years and it would be risky for him to do that now because of the unevenness of the ground in the park. After falling last year and fracturing my hip (not in the park) I haven’t been going over there as much. A few weeks ago, however, I was over there tidying things up a bit. I have to say that the park has been looking really good in recent years and I know that is because of the FOMP.
In past years whenever we would spot some activity that looked very questionable and clearly problematic, we would call the police and follow up to make sure they came and checked things out. I remember going over by myself to stop some students who were attacking a park bench. I have been known over the years to go up to someone who didn’t pick up after their dog and offer them a bag after telling them it was wrong. Honestly, things have seemed so much better in recent years. I rarely see people walk their dogs and not pick up. I think people are better now at using the available bags. Also, we haven’t seen questionable or loud activity in quite a while.
I remember raking up leaves in the park with a bunch of FOMP people. I really enjoyed it. I really liked the pumpkin labyrinth. I thought that was a lot of fun. I actually looked forward to going out to buy my pumpkins. I love the Valentine’s Day lovelights. So beautiful! I love the peaceful simple beauty of the park most of all. We have the Friends group to thank for that!
Thanks for all you do!
Take care and stay safe during this difficult time for our country.
Friends of McMichael Park 