by Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Hundreds of children, parents, grandparents, neighbors, family and friends gathered at Hinkley Memorial Park on Sunday, September 15th. They were there to celebrate the grand opening of the park’s brand new, accessible, and inclusive playground. This modern facility is the result of almost three years of brainstorming and fundraising by Hinkley Helpers, with lots of community interest and support along the way.
The grand opening was courtesy of Hinkley Helpers and the Medfield Park and Recreation Department. The event featured a DJ, face painting, a balloon maker, a story walk courtesy of the Medfield Public Library, food trucks and music. Special guests in attendance included Senator Rebecca Rausch, Representative Marcus Vaughn, and Norfolk County Commissioner Richard Staiti.
“The County Commissioners were able to give the Town of Medfield $250,000 which I was honored to present…You’ve done a great job. All of you should be commended on this outstanding facility. It was money well spent,” Staiti said during a brief speech at the ceremony. He was referring to American Rescue Plan Act grant that was awarded to the town and served as great momentum towards fundraising efforts, the rest of which was donated by generous local businesses and residents.
“Remember when this playground was empty? There were no cars in the parking lot. Now, it’s filled with laughter,” Kelly Fallon, founder of Hinkley Helpers, said when it was her turn to address the crowd. “The transformation wouldn’t have happened without all of you. We’re gathered here today, all of us, with hearts full of gratitude. To our generous donors and tireless supporters: thank you…This new playground isn’t just swings and slides and a really cool zip line. It’s a testament to what we can achieve when we come together and share our vision for a brighter future for our children.”
Stephen David Hinkley, for whom the park is named, was the first Medfield resident to lose their life during the Vietnam War. He was only 19 years old. Several Hinkley family members were in attendance at the grand opening event, and a moment of silence was observed in his honor.
