Anniversary party planned for Quail Ridge Park
June 10, 2010
St. Charles County
To recognize the 10th Anniversary of the opening of Quail Ridge Park, the St. Charles County Parks Department invites residents and guests to celebrate An Afternoon in the Park on Sunday, July 25 with activities from 2 – 6 p.m. Festivities are planned throughout the afternoon at the 250-acre park in Wentzville, where guests of all ages can enjoy live music, a kids’ area, and exhibits promoting park activities. Attendees are encouraged to bring along lawn chairs or blankets to spend the afternoon relaxing in the park.
“The 10th Anniversary celebration recognizes the contributions of individuals and area businesses in helping to make the St. Charles County Parks Department such a tremendous success in just a short time,” Parks Director Bettie Yahn-Kramer said. “We’re proud of the results we’ve achieved over our first 10 years and appreciate the continued support we’ve received from the community. To all who have contributed in the past and for those who plan to join us as we grow upon this base in the future—please know that you’ll forever be a part of our legacy!”
To honor this first decade of growth and accomplishment, An Afternoon in the Park presents various activities. The event kicks off with a reception that recognizes individuals who donated land for future parks, officials responsible for the growth of the department, and other community leaders. At 2 p.m., the event opens to the public with activities that include a concert by “Glaze and the MoonKings;” exhibits promoting park activities such as mountain biking, disc golf, astronomy, the Off-Leash Dog Area, and natural preservation; and displays featuring emergency vehicles from the St. Charles County Sheriff’s Department and Park Rangers. In addition to these free activities, the Wentzville VFW Post 5327, the Quail Ridge Horseshoe Club, and Kona Ice will also offer food and beverage booths as a fundraiser.
A number of community organizations, businesses and individuals have demonstrated their support for the department by becoming sponsors or volunteers for An Afternoon in the Park. Event sponsors include Pure Air Native Seed, SWT Design, Hamilton Native Outpost, Garcon Graphic Design and Signs, the Community News, Art’s Lawn Mower Shop, the Suburban Journals and Quintessential Catering. Those interested in discussing opportunities to join as event sponsors or providing volunteer assistance should call the Parks Department at 636-949-7535.
Since opening Quail Ridge Park as the County’s first regional public park in July 2000, the department has dedicated seven additional recreation areas, preserved sites of historical and natural significance, and provided countless hours of entertainment for residents and visitors. Along with the 250 acres that make up Quail Ridge Park, the department has acquired more than 2,800 acres of land dedicated to becoming regional County parks and focused its efforts in maintaining a significant portion of this land in its natural state. The department has hosted more than 20,000 program participants, generated more than $1 million in revenue, and received more than $15 million in donation value since the dedication of Quail Ridge Park.
Featuring a variety of amenities that include hiking/bicycle trails, an indoor lodge, fishing, picnic areas, playgrounds, an Off-Leash Dog Area, a disc golf course, and much more, Quail Ridge Park is located near the intersection of Interstate 70 and Highway 40/61 in Wentzville. From Interstate 70, go south on Highway 40/61 to Prospect Road. Turn right at the Prospect roundabout and make a right onto Duello Road/Quail Ridge Parkway. Follow to the park entrance (approximately one mile on left).
The St. Charles County Parks Department will offer more than 100 programs for County residents and visitors this year at the eight parks currently open to the public. Including guided hikes and bike rides, events for children, educational lectures, and other natural recreational opportunities, the majority of these events are free and open to everyone. For more information or for registration, please call the St. Charles County Parks Department at 636-949-7535 or visit www.stccparks.org.
From the St. Charles County Parks Department
Copyright 2010 Neighbors About Town
Prairie grasses growing in Quail Ridge Park.