Written by Gabrielle Pack, intern with The Messenger

This month’s Pike County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours program will be used for a special purpose as it brings together local businesses and the community in support of the Miracle League Playground Project.

CGI will host the Business After Hours for April and chose to spotlight the playground project because the community is in need of a playground that is accessible to all children in the area, said CGI Director George Tarbox.

“Members will learn more about the importance of the playground for the community and how businesses will be able to participate and support this project,” Tarbox said.

The playground will be constructed near the Sportsplex and will be fully accessible for children with special needs. The total cost of the project is $200,000 and with the help of the Land, Water, and Conservation Fund making a commitment of $50,000, the City of Troy adding to that another $50,000, and the community donating more than $60,000, project organizers have the goal within reach.

“There are thermometer signs that are around the community displaying the donation progress towards the playground,” Tarbox said.

Troy Parks and Recreation Director Dan Smith said he is grateful to CGI for hosting the event because the playground committee has a deadline of June to raise money for the project.

“We are very pleased to share the construction of the playground with all of the guests and to generate their support,” Smith said.

Kathy Sauer, president of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, said that Business After Hours is a way to connected businesses and help people network in a social setting. She said she felt the Miracle League Playground was the perfect topic for April.

“We do appreciate and thank CGI for sponsoring this event, along with all of our members who have previously sponsored Business After Hours,” Sauer said.

There will be commitment slips distributed during the After Hours event to people and businesses interested in contributing to this project.

Business After Hours will be held Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. at CGI at 518 S. Brundidge St. in Troy.