Kiwanians Chris Hoover, Jess Elias, Cookie West, Paul Brandt and Tom Timmons enjoy lunch.

Those in attendance listened to this week’s guest speaker, Flora VerStraten-Merrin, founder of Friends of Beatty Park.

VerStraten-Merrin discussed the history of the 92-acre park. In addition, she touched on some of the plans officials have for the future. One plan calls for a 12-mile trail which entails the construction of a suspended walking bridge.

“The park is really a hidden gem for the city,” VerStraten-Merrin stated. “It is a beautiful area with several walking trails that will make you forget about the city around it.”

She thanked Kiwanis for its $10,000 donation given in memory of Edwin C. Chuchman, former Kiwanian and certified public accountant, noting the money was used for the installation of identification and history markers throughout the park.

Gary Wickham, Jill Wickham, Marlies Brandt, Mary Alice Brandt, Andrea Taylor and Kris Haught eat in Beatty Park.

Kiwanis will hold their next meeting at noon, Tuesday at the center.

Kiwanis Secretary and Treasurer Tom Timmons, President Cookie West and Friends of Beatty Park Founder Flora VerStraten-Merrin stand in front of one of the new signs.