The Knights of Columbus Council in Truesdale is challenging local businesses and service organization to donate money for recreation equipment at the city’s new Bruer Park.In a letter distributed throughout the area, the Knights said they had donated $250 for the park at 800 Smith St., which is named in honor of late Mayor Murray Bruer, who was an officer within the Knights of Columbus. The Knights council challenged others to match their donation, and a number have answered that call.With the donations that have come in so far, some smaller than the challenge but others matching or exceeding $250, Knights of Columbus trustee Tom Massman said they’ve raised $2,750. That money will probably go toward basketball equipment, he commented.Massman is a Warrenton resident who lives within the city’s central residential area. He said the new park in Truesdale is an ideal opportunity to have a park on the east side of Highway 47.“I see kids walking back and forth all the time to Dyer Park. I figure it’s better to (also) have a park on the eastern end,” Massman said. That way, children in Truesdale and the adjacent section of Warrenton have a place to play closer to where they live.The Knights of Columbus want to help Truesdale acquire playground equipment as quickly as possible, rather than waiting for more funding. Truesdale City Administrator MaryLou Rainwater said the city is researching highquality basketball hoops that will be durable. The money from the Knights of Columbus fundraising is enough by itself to purchase at least one, she said, and possibly more. “We’re excited. We’re very appreciative to the Knights of Columbus for taking the initiative to do this challenge for Bruer Park,” Rainwater said. “I know (Bruer) would feel very honored.” The park is a work in progress, but it offers the first public space in Truesdale for children and families to play and gather. The city is building a pavilion at the 1.5-acre property, and intends to seek grant funding for play equipment and other structures there, Rainwater said. City officials hosted their second annual Railroad Days community festival at the park Oct. 6, and said the park will host a National Night Out celebration next year as well.

Children play on a wooden train at Bruer Park in Truesdale Oct. 6. The train was built and donated by Truesdale resident Dave McConnell. The Truesdale Knights of Columbus Council is challenging others to contribute to a fundraising campaign for more playground equipment.

Record photo/Adam Rollins