Friday, November 3 - We want to thank all those who believe in this project and energize those who are still learning about the future park.

During the social time, be sure to check out the Aerial Video of the land by Tony Glenn, the wall of donors and the slide show. At 6:00, we will hear from a few speakers involved in the project (about 30 min). We will close the night with door prizes (wine, books, outdoor supplies, etc shown below) and more socializing.

DHS Homecoming Parade - Friends of the Valdese Rec was selected as the Grand Marshal of the October 10 Draughn High School Homecoming parade. The school is excited about what the Valdese Lakeside Park will bring to them in the way of educational, athletic and service opportunities. We were thrilled to be recognized with this honor and rode on the Lovelady Fire Depart Fire Truck!!

Sustainable Trails Workshop - On Saturday, October 14, FVR members Beth Heile, Reed Farrar, Jeff Farrar and Ingrid Farrar attended a trail maintenance class at Catawba County’s Riverbend Park. Put on by Northwest NC MTB Alliance, the class was taught by Tim Johnson and included classroom and field work. Tim Johnson of Rockingham Community College talked about Sustainable Trails – if you build them right the first time there will be less maintenance. Volunteers will be used where possible at Valdese Lakeside Park. 

Park Design Firm Chosen - At the October Town Council Meeting, Eric Woolridge of Destination by Design presented an overview of his firm and what he could offer in a Master Park Plan. Beth Heile, President of FVR, spoke in support of selecting DbD. They did the concept plan used to submit with the state grants the town was awarded. Town Council voted in favor. FVR and the Town of Valdese will split the cost.

Stop by the Waldensian Room Friday morning, Nov 3rd between 8:30-10:30 to help set up tables (table cloths and decorations), arrange food placement (just order, no food yet), arrange flowers, create the donor wall and anything else needed to get ready for the celebration that evening!

Pledges Due December 1, 2017 - If you pledged to the Valdese Lakeside Park, a payment request reviewing the amount pledged and the recognition name has been mailed to you. Your tax deductible donation will help with the park design plan and amenities such as hiking trails, mountain biking trails, a kayak launch, disc golf course, parking and a picnic shelter. (Thanks to those who have already sent in their donation.)

If you have not pledged, please consider donating to the park.