An effort to install new net backstops at softball and baseball diamonds at Riverside Park illustrates the value of working together, Iola Mayor Jon Wells said.
Wells is also a member of the Iola Elks Lodge 569, which has a goal of keeping children active and healthy, he said.
As such, the local group gave $1,500 for the backstops at the park.
Crews already have replaced the chain-link backstop with the net version at the parks primary softball diamond.
The project took more effort than originally expected, Wells noted, because the old metal poles supporting the chain-link material needed to be replaced as well. (They were replaced with wood poles.)
Wells lauded the efforts of Iolas city crews, USD 257 workers, Iola Recreation Director Jason Bauer, Parks Superintendent Berkley Kerr and Dr. Steven Leonard.
The project ran into some unexpected infrastructure problems, but with their partnership, they truly made it a success, Wells said.
The $1,500 grant was awarded in honor of the Elks organizations 150th anniversary.
The backstop to the baseball diamond will be replaced when scheduling (and weather) allows.
