Nearly thirty loyal and enthusiastic volunteers came out Saturday, March 22nd to our Memorial Park cemetery to take part in the Centro’s 3rd Annual Improvement and Clean-up Day. The weather was picture-perfect as we went about the business of refurbishment and repair. Ground markers were swept, vases were placed into their upright and locked positions, and bench seats were placed on their supports, cleaned, and painted. After three hours of labor, our volunteers gathered to enjoy each other’s company as we snacked on pimento cheese and Cuban sandwiches and the many desserts that were provided.
Many thanks to all who came out and special thanks to our Board members who helped organize and undertake the setup of tools, handouts, food and beverages: Cynthia Tamargo, Cathy Varon, Arlene Babanats, and Brian Howell. Thank you also to the Fundación Consejo España – Estados Unidos and Anthony Carreño for the handsome door prize that was donated to us, and which was created for the Invisible Immigrants exhibit now at the Tampa Bay History Center (through August 3rd). Finally, a very special thank you to Dr. Dennis Alvarez, who arranged for contractor Sam Collura to refurbish the entry feature, pressure wash the mausoleum façade, paint its grill work, repair damage cause by last year’s hurricanes, and build a pedestal for the bust of Dr. Mack Winton. Both Dr. Alvarez and Mr. Collura have family resting at this cemetery.
As we think about next year’s improvement and clean-up day, a couple of the items that were purchased for this year’s event (pump sprayer, hose, cleaning brushes) are available to continue refurbishing the monuments at our older cemetery; (we have a limited, but renewable supply of the helpful D2 cleaning product).
If you are interested in doing more work at the cemetery prior to our next annual clean-up, please contact Melany Balbín (813-870-0559) and we will be happy to make arrangements to meet you at a mutually convenient time.
Again, thanks to all!
Here are some photos of the amazing work done by our volunteers…
