Musical fundraiser for Augusta Street Park Feb. 3 at Old Town Hall

Posted Jan 26, 2012 By Tara Gesner

EMC Events - "It's the start of a fundraising campaign," said Jeff Mills, coordinator of Community Development at Mills Community Support Corporation, when referring to 'It's a Walk in the Park'.

The fundraiser for Almonte's Augusta Street Park takes place Feb. 3 - next Friday.

"It will be an old-fashioned music concert, similar to an East Coast Kitchen Party and everyone is welcome," explained Mills.

'It's a Walk in the Park' will grace the stage at the Almonte Old Town Hall (AOTH) at 7 p.m.

The event is modelled after two successful community fundraisers - 'Haiti SOS' and 'A Night for Sendai'.

On Jan. 12, 2010, a disastrous 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti, affecting in excess of three million people. Residents and groups from in and around Mississippi Mills came together on Jan. 22 to support the victims, raising $20,000 by way of 'Haiti SOS'.

A little more than a year later (March 11), a strong 9.0 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Japan produced extensive destruction and triggered powerful tsunami waves. Once more, the local community responded. In the region of $6,000 was collected through 'A Night for Sendai'.

Last week Mills said 'It's a Walk in the Park' attendees can expect a diversity of local musical offerings and he's hoping for a good community turnout.

"Johnny Spinks is a big (Augusta Park) proponent," he said. "This is his neighbourhood, and he's opening our show."

Danielle Gregoire who founded the Lanark County Slam (now known as LiPS) is also set to perform.

"We are trying to raise as much money as we can," said Mills.

Refreshments will be provided by TYPS (Take Young People Seriously).

The land at Augusta Street Park was officially designated a park more than 40 years ago - a haunt for generations of neighbourhood children, and today, it needs the community's help.

"Parks improve our town, and people of all ages and abilities care about them," said Mills. "Augusta Street Park is a real gem, and we are trying to get it back. It will take time, talent and treasure."

Not everyone has treasure, but people have time and talent, added the coordinator of Community Development. "We are looking at a lot of in-kind support, engaging some trades to help us."

Sign-up boards will be on display at the AOTH where residents can indicate the level of support they wish to give.

"We are going back to the roots of community development," said Mills.

Mississippi Mills council recently carried a resolution allowing the Augusta Street Park Community Committee to start work on the park.

Plans include a BMX bike track, accessible walkway, community gardens and a splash pad.

"The design was done by Bill Mussell," said Mills. "He used to live in Almonte but now resides in Britannia. He designs parks for the city."

Mussell is said to love the creek flowing through Augusta Street Park, in addition to its many mature trees.

'It's a Walk in the Park' tickets cost $10 each - on sale at Baker Bob's, located at 73 Little Bridge St. in downtown Almonte.

"Come and share stories, and see your neighbours," said Mills. "Let's do it together."

The public can help make the rehabilitation of Almonte's Augusta Street Park 'A Walk in the Park', he continued.

tgesner@perfprint.ca