Senator Dale M. Volker Secures $40,000 For Marilla Primary School Playground

William T. Stachowski

Senator Dale M. Volker (R-C-I, Depew) today announced that he has secured $40,000 to assist in the construction of a new playground at the Marilla Primary School located on Bullis Road in Marilla. Senator Volker secured these state funds as part of the adopted 2006-2007 State Budget.

"Parents, teachers, administrators and the children who are part of the Marilla Primary School have shown outstanding commitment and dedication to raise funds for a new playground for their school and community," said Senator Volker. "Playgrounds play a instrumental role in our children's futures. By being physically active and socializing with their peers, they learn life lessons that will have lasting benefits for them as they enter adulthood. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in this major undertaking for all of their efforts to bringing this playground to fruition and I look forward to its opening."

Julie Schwab, Principal of the Marilla Primary School said, "The current playground has served our children and community well for many years. However, due to the potential of environmental and health concerns, the time has come to replace it so that all of our children, including those with some physical challenges, can enjoy playing with their friends and classmates in a safe, secure and friendly environment. I am very proud of the enormous effort and support of our children, administrators and educators in fundraising for the replacement of our playground. It is indicative of the character and dedication of our community towards its children and their well-being. I would like to thank Senator Volker for his continued commitment to our children and community by securing $40,000 in state funds for our playground replacement project."

William Seifert, Co-President of Marilla Playground Committee said, "I am very proud of the enormous effort and support of our parents, children, administrators and educators in fundraising for the replacement of our playground. Senator Volker securing $40,000 in state funds is an enormous shot in the arm for our new playground. We are indeed appreciative of all of his efforts to secure these funds."

This wooden-style playground was constructed with pressure treated wood that has since fallen out of favor due to environmental concerns. Due to its age and years of constant use, replacing this playground has been recommended. The new playground will meet all EPA standards and will be accessible to all children including those with physical challenges.