Photo courtesy of ER Ruritan Club
After a call to order, the singing of “My County, ’Tis of Thee,” a blessing offered by Chaplain Robert McRae, and sharing a meal catered by Twinks 220 Diner, the March meeting of the Eagle Rock Ruritan Club welcomed Victor Morales, Parks and Recreation director, and Blake Winand, head of Grounds Maintenance for Parks and Recreation for Botetourt County.
Both men talked to Ruritan members about a proposed update of the Last Lock Park. The new sign for this historic site reads: “Last Lock Kanawha Canal.” Actually, the James River/Kanawha Canal was a vision of George Washington to connect the Atlantic Ocean with the Ohio River to facilitate trade and commerce. The project was upstaged when the railroad came through this area. The Last Lock is located just north of Eagle Rock on Rt. 43.
Morales and Winand presented ideas for improving, upgrading, and enhancing the park area, which consists of the unfinished Last Lock, a historic monument, a historic sign, and a flag pole. On this Botetourt County property there is a small pavilion and restroom which need upgrading. Beginning with a $9,000 grant already in hand, Parks and Recreation plans to designate a parking lot area and establish walking trails, including a trail connecting the park to the village of Eagle Rock. There is a great need for an overall cleanup of the area, which extends to the James River and the site of a future boat launch.
When asked about the area of the collapsed Farm Store in Eagle Rock, Morales told the club that there is grant money set aside for the cleanup of the area and the establishing of a green area with picnic facilities.
In other business, Jane McRae announced the National Day of Prayer May 1 at the Eagle Rock Library flag pole from noon to 12:15 p.m., with participants invited to a Dutch treat lunch at Iron and Ore Grill afterward. She also reminded everyone of the Community Fellowship Meal at the Eagle Rock Community Center at noon on Monday, May 12. Sue Marazzi announced that the United Methodist Church Clothes Closet will be open on Saturday, May 3.
Ruritan member Penny Neil announced that she will be traveling to Utah May 5 through 17 to be a crowd participant in the filming of a scene on “The Chosen” set for Season Six.
Club President Beth Leffel gave an update on the Third Annual Science Festival on May 3 at the Eagle Rock Elementary School. There will be food trucks, vendors, and science projects all making for a good time to learn, and see, and visit friends.
Bill Critcher reminded members of a dual primary in June. He also said that flags will be placed on veterans’ graves for Memorial Day.
Erin Slusser-Pease announced that the James River High School Day of Service will be working at Eagle Rock Elementary School.
Peggy Hamm read a letter from the Extension Service requesting financial assistance for young people attending 4-H Summer Camp. The club membership voted to provide a $400 a scholarship for one student.
Robin Bolton has placed a small curio cabinet in the Ruritan Room at the Community Center to display memorabilia from Eagle Rock High School days.
Steve Vaughn announced that the Little Free Library is open once again after recent repairs.
After the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, the meeting was adjourned.
Just a reminder that the Eagle Rock Community Center is available for use by individuals and groups in the area. Call 540-884-2775 to make reservations.
~Eagle Rock Ruritan Club
