A recent barbecue at Jacob Myers Park honored the many volunteers that pitch in to help with various activities around town.

The event was held on Friday, Aug. 5, in the Burney Pavilion at the park. Riverbank Parks and Recreation Department staff members served as cooks, with Director Sue Fitzpatrick host and emcee for the festivities.

The menu included hot dogs and hamburgers, with cheese and other condiments readily available, along with chips and drinks.

After the meal, current and recent Park Hosts were recognized as were the many volunteers involved with the upcoming Haunted Halloween Hayride at the end of October. Included were many members of Riverbank Boy Scout Troop 1100.

Also honored were members of the community group Friends of Jacob Myers Park. It is they, over the past 16 years or so, who have guided the progression of the park from a drug-riddled eyesore to the family-friendly regional attraction it has become. During summer months, the park is filled to overflowing with people of all ages using the recreation facilities of the many barbecues and picnic areas, playground equipment, gazebos and the river itself, as well as the loop trail at the west end of the park.

Additional improvement activities have been completed over the years by youngsters, and their families and friends, completing a project for their Eagle Scout Award.

After the meal, Fitzpatrick handed out certificates to those being honored. She was assisted by Mayor Richard O’Brien, council member Darlene Barber-Martinez and the Recreation Department’s raccoon mascot.