Lemont Park District Semi-Centennial Sparks Sentimentality, Fun for the Year

Photo Courtesy of Lemont Park District: James Ruppert (right), son of Park District Founder Lewis Ruppert, receives commemorative photo from Lemont Park District Board President, Brian Pepich (left).

While a lot has changed for the Lemont Park District over the last 50 years, one thing has remained steadfast — the organization's commitment to collaborating as a catalyst for change.

The 1966-formed group originally banded together with a vision to make a difference, representatives said. In celebrating their semi-centennial year this month, they are honoring the fact that its firm foundation and invaluable members have only continued to evolve.

“Through hard work, dedication and selfless volunteerism, (the district's) commissioners have played a key role in (its) development over the past five decades ..." Lemont Park District Executive Director Louise Egofske said, in a news release.

The district hosted a celebratory reception earlier this month honoring founder and former Lemont Township supervisor, Lewis Ruppert, as well as the other men and women who have served as commissioners throughout the years. They were each honored with a commemorative "then and now" photo of Lemont's Centennial Campus.

Decade displays including memorabilia from each decade provided a backdrop for the event along with impacting timelines, awards and photographs.

Festivities will remain ongoing throughout 2016 in the form of an “All you need is Fun” theme that will manifest, in part, through special amenities at the district's Annual Independence Day Extravaganza set for July 3.

For more information about the Lemont Park District, visit www.LemontParkDistrict.org.