A monument to local generosity

It’s one thing to make a pledge.
It’s another thing to fulfill it.
And when that pledge is monetary, there’s a world of difference between the two.
That’s why it is so heartening to learn that Jay County citizens and companies not only pledged more than $1.2 million toward the new Portland Water Park, they have also honored those pledges.
The cash is in hand.
Without this generous response, the project simply would not have happened.
While city officials are happy to take credit for the water park, it is the community — not government — which made the difference.
Civic leaders, volunteers working long hours behind the scenes, and folks who were ready to reach into their wallets or write a check are the reason the new water park will open this summer.
It’s true that city tax dollars are picking up most of the construction cost. But it’s also true that the city had sufficient funds to go ahead with the project and balked.
Only when there was a commitment to come up with private donations to join with public tax dollars did the project go forward. Anyone who suggests otherwise is re-writing local history.
In many ways, the finished facility is much more than a recreation destination.
It’s more than just a great place to have fun with the family.
It’s more than a magnet for kids.
It is a monument to this community’s generosity, vision, and perseverance.
Amid all the hoopla and fun, that’s something that never should be forgotten. — J.R.