Afternoon at the Park Set for April 25 to Celebrate Park Improvements and Community Partnerships

The City of Solomon invites residents and visitors to attend Afternoon at the Park, a free community event scheduled for Saturday, April 25 at Solomon City Park, beginning at noon. The event will celebrate recent improvements to the park while bringing the community together for food, outdoor activities, and friendly competition.

Recent upgrades to the park include a resurfaced sports court, installation of a new basketball goal, remodeled restroom facilities, and additional seating made possible through grant funding, local donations, and community sponsorships.

Mayor Brandy Gray said the event is an opportunity to recognize the many people who helped make the project possible.

“This project is a great example of what can happen when a community works together,” said Mayor Gray. “From grant partners to local families and organizations, so many people stepped forward to support these improvements. We are proud of what was accomplished, and we are excited to invite everyone out to enjoy the park together.”

Community Partnership Highlighted Through Pickleball Tournament

As part of the afternoon’s activities, the City of Solomon is partnering with Solomon High School FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) to host a pickleball tournament on the new sports court.

Tournament check-in will begin at 12:30 p.m., with play starting at 1:00 p.m. The tournament is open to all skill levels, with up to 20 teams competing.

Kilynne McCook, representing FCA, said the event builds on strong momentum from last year’s tournament.

“We did this pickleball tournament last year for the first time and had an amazing turnout, raising a lot of money,” McCook said. “We had a lot of requests to do it again, and I want it to become a spring FCA tradition.”

McCook added that partnering with the City created an opportunity to expand the impact of both events.

“When we were asked to combine efforts, it made perfect sense to help increase participation while also recognizing the new park additions, including the pickleball courts,” she said. “I hope everyone can come together in a fun and competitive environment in support of our growing FCA group.”

Grants and Donations Made Improvements Possible

Much of the work completed at the park was made possible through grant funding provided by the Community Foundation of Dickinson County and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas through the Pathways to a Healthy Kansas initiative.

Additional support came from local donors and sponsors who contributed to the sports court and bench sponsorship program.

The new basketball goal was funded by the Kroeker family in memory of Drew Kroeker.

“Drew loved the game of basketball and the time he spent with friends at the park, so dedicating the goal in his memory felt like the right way to honor him,” the Kroeker family shared. “We hope every bounce of the ball and every shot made here is a reminder of his spirit, his kindness, and the joy he brought to others. It means a lot to our family to know this will be a place where new memories are made.”

Sports bench sponsorships were provided by:

• Grandpa Verne Stark
• Solomon City Lodge #105
• Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Kansas Lodge
• The Gray Family

One of those benches was sponsored in honor of Verne Stark, whose legacy continues to shape the community.

“I chose to sponsor a bench in the park to honor my grandpa Verne, whose life centered around supporting others — especially us, his grandchildren,” said Ashley. “Our roots in Solomon began with him, and he was always there, sitting, watching, and cheering us on at every game.”

She said the bench reflects the same presence he brought to others.

“This bench represents that same spirit — quiet support, presence, and encouragement,” she said. “I hope others will sit there, make memories, and cheer on the people they love, just like he always did.”

Additional court contributors include:

• Caleb & Priscilla Abell
• Paul & Bonnie Houghton
• Solomon State Bank

Bench Sponsorship Opportunities Still Available

The City of Solomon is continuing the bench sponsorship program at the sports court area. Four bench sponsorships are still available at $1,000 each.

Families and individuals interested in honoring loved ones or supporting the park are encouraged to participate. Those interested may contact City Hall at 785-655-3311 for more information. View the bench sponsorship flyer here.

Everyone Invited to Attend

Afternoon at the Park will begin at noon with a community gathering. Hotdogs, chips, and water will be provided while supplies last.

Throughout the afternoon, attendees are invited to:

Mayor Gray said the event is meant to celebrate the people behind the progress.

“This park belongs to everyone,” she said. “We hope people of all ages will come out on April 25 to enjoy the improvements, support the tournament, and spend time together.”