HIWASSE -- The Greater Gravette Chamber of Commerce sponsored a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Hiwasse Community Building Thursday evening, May 31. Mayor Kurt Maddox welcomed the crowd of about 60 who attended and spoke briefly about the remodeling, which was made possible when voters approved to continue a 3/4 cent sales tax in 2016 and the city council approved the project.
Maddox thanked Tim Dewitt, parks department superintendent for the city, and the members of the Hiwasse Community Building Advisory Committee. The space was designed by BiLD Architects, and the contractor was Electrical Resources. The interior was beautifully decorated by members of the Hiwasse committee and contains many photographs and priceless mementos of Hiwasse history. Money ($2,000) was donated by Care and Share to assist with purchasing items for the space. The original cabinets were preserved and are being used in the storage room.
Built in 1947 using a building from Camp Crowder, it served as the Hiwasse school gymnasium. It had been a movie theater and the district purchased it for $50. Several men in the area donated their time to tear the building down and move it to Hiwasse. The city of Gravette remodeled the building earlier this year and the original wood floors were restored. A pavilion, restrooms and a playground were constructed in the open area nearby.
Several area citizens joined Maddox in cutting the ribbon. Others attending included council members Rod Clardy, Jeff Davis and Ron Theis, Rep. Kim Hendren and chamber president Fred Overstreet.
An open house was held in the building following the ribbon cutting. Refreshments were served by the Hiwasse Community Building Advisory Committee. Committee members are Patti Bertschy, Peggy Bertschy, Julie Holloway, Rhonda Jarvis, Cathleen Spears, Larry and Zina Weihe. Many families with children headed to the adjoining park to enjoy the playground equipment after the refreshments.
"The building reflects the history of the community of Hiwasse and the playground is being enjoyed by all," said Patti Bertschy. "We hope that people will remember fond memories and make new memories with our new and improved community room and playground."
Interested persons may reserve the community building for family reunions or organization meetings by contacting Gravette City Hall.
Community on 06/13/2018