Published: August 28, 2008 10:35 pm            

Inaugural Richland Community Days brings in about $30G

Proceeds are still being tabulated, but the first Richland Community Days will deliver about $30,000 toward a new recreation complex, leaders said at a wrap-up meeting.

“This event, on all levels, exceeded all expectations,” Henry Cook said at the event in The Mirage Banquet and Catering Facility, 900 Scalp Ave.

Cook is president and chief operating officer of Somerset Trust Co. and is credited with originating the idea of a Richland festival.

“Henry had the vision of Richland coming together,” event coordinator Shirley Stuby said. “The only thing I can say is, ‘Wow.’ ”

Thousands filled Schoolhouse Road and surrounding venues for the premier event Aug. 15 and 16. Music, food, crafts, a parade and children’s activities were featured.

Revenues will help jump-start a fund drive for a field house gymnasium, athletic fields and an indoor pool.

The proposed permanent home for East Hills Recreation Commission would be built on Richland School District property along Theatre Drive between Rachel Hill School and Eisenhower Boulevard.

“I guarantee someday we will have a multimillion-dollar, state-of-the-art recreation facility we can all be proud of, and it all started right here with this event,” East Hills Director Jim Miliauskas told the group.

While this year’s event marked the township’s 175th anniversary, organizers say Richland Community Days will become an annual event. Event coordinator Vince Strugala said three more corporate sponsors are ready to sign up for next year.

“We hope it will double in size,” Strugala said.

“It’s going to grow, just because of the way year No. 1 went.”

        

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