Arbor Day is a nationally celebrated observance that encourages tree planting and tree care. The first Arbor Day was celebrated in the state of Nebraska in 1872, in response to a state proclamation urging settlers and homesteaders to plant trees that would provide shade, shelter, fruit, fuel, and beauty for residents of the largely treeless plains. On that first Arbor Day, more than one million trees were planted in Nebraska’s communities and farms. Indianola residents celebrated Arbor Day this year by planting 43 white pine trees around the south and west sides of the tennis courts at the Indianola Middle School. Students from the school as well as their teachers and volunteers and Parks & Recreation employees worked throughout the day on Wednesday, April 23rd to get the trees planted. The event was organized by the Indianola Parks and Recreation Department working with the Indianola Community Trees Committee, Indianola Municipal Utilities and the Indianola Middle School. Funding for the tree planting project was provided by donated funds from a fundraising effort spearheaded by Indianola High School student Jessica Welborne and from funds allocated by the Indianola Community Trees Committee. "As part of Indianola's Tree City USA membership we are required to have a tree planting event for Arbor Day. Planting 43 trees far exceeded this requirement," stated Cathy Nutting, City Horticulturalist. "A project of this size just wouldn't be possible without the volunteers and funding - we really appreciate everyone's help."
Need a room for your wedding reception, graduation, anniversary or any other celebration? The Buxton Multi-Purpose room at the Indianola Activity Center could be what you are looking for! It holds up to 280 people, has plenty of tables and chairs, a small kitchen, stage, podium and sound system—everything you need for a party.
If your event is not that large, the Shull Conference Room and Arts & Crafts Room are also available for rent. They hold up to 15 to 20 people. Call the Parks and Recreation Office at 961-9420 for more information or stop by the Indianola Activity Center.
The Indianola Parks & Recreation Department would like to have concessions available at the 5 Sunday at Seven Music Concerts held at the Memorial Park Outdoor Amphitheater this summer. Any type of food items may be provided. Drinks, popcorn, cookies, bars, ice cream & other deserts, snack items, walking tacos and other favorite items have been offered in the past. Interested groups may pick one or more concerts. Each concert has been drawing approximately 300+ people. The concerts are at 7:00 p.m. on Sundays, June 8, 15, 22, 29 and July 6 (there will also be fireworks on July 6). Details and information may be obtained by contacting the Indianola Parks & Recreation Department at 961-9420.
Senior mothers are invited to join us at the Activity Center for a breakfast in their honor. The menu will include fruit salad, rolls or muffins, breakfast casserole and beverage. Each mother who attends will receive a small gift furnished by Wal-Mart. Please RSVP to Sandy at 961-9420.
Kids ages 8-12, will plant their own gardens at the Indianola Activity Center and care for the gardens throughout the summer. Kids will learn how to plan, plant, and harvest produce and flowers from their gardens. Taste testing of produce is encouraged. We will meet 1-2 mornings per week throughout the summer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours each day. Registration will be from May 1 to May 15th. Space is limited. A fee will be charged. More information will be available at registration or contact Parks and Recreation at 515-961-9425.
