In 2007, HUGS has been getting the 8th Street Park ready in time for Raymond’s 100th Anniversary celebration. In 2006 we started writing grant requests and in January of this year the new playground was installed. The new playground is a terrific addition to the park and features a three bay swing, a preschool play area, and another huge play area complete with a slide and a roof that makes this playground unique.

The City of Raymond has been a great partner in this project. The site for the new playground was cleared and rocked by the city crew. The two old wooden structures that were rotten were also removed by the city, and the playground was hauled off. Thanks very much to all of the staff at the city for your help with this very worthwhile project. New concrete tables and benches have also been placed around the park to replace the old wooden ones.

On May 9th, the old tennis courts and basketball court were completely reasphalted. Many trees were removed that had caused major damage in these areas. On June 1st, Atlas Court Systems installed their “Plexipave Surfacing” to both tennis courts and the basketball court. New basketball systems and new tennis nets were installed after this and both playing surfaces look terrific and should provide years of enjoyment.

On August 4th, the 8th Street Park was be re-dedicated with the new name of the “L.V. and Stella J. Raymond Memorial Park”.

Thank you to all of the foundations that gave us grants for the 8th Street Park Project as well as everyone locally that contributes annually to HUGS. This is just one of the many ways we help the youth of our area through your thoughtful donations.