The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A NEW state-of-the-art special needs playground was constructed at the Beacon School in honour of businessman and Rotarian the late Stephen M Dillet, who died of cancer last May.

Education Minister Jerome Fitzgerald attended the dedication ceremony this week at the school on Columbus Drive.

“The opening of the Stephen Dillet playground is one of the greatest acts of love and service,” he said, commending the Rotary Club of Lucaya for keeping its promise to honour its former past president in such a way.

He pledged that his ministry will ensure the upkeep of the facility, which caters to disabled and special students at the Beacon School.

Mr Dillet’s family was also present. Heather Dillet, the wife of Mr Dillet, was emotional. A number of Rotarians were also present.

The club raised some $170,000 to build the playground. It consists of a playing field and track, merry-go-round, basketball court, bocce courts, swings and slide. There is also a playpen area for smaller children and a serenity garden. The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Rotary President Billy Jane Ferguson said Mr Dillet was very passionate about the Beacon School. She shared the idea with him of naming the playground in his honour.

“It is a joy to see the dream come to reality,” she said.

Minister Fitzgerald said the facility provides a recreational space and sanctuary for the students.

“This is really about genuine love and service, which is evident of the energies and finances that Rotary Club had invested in the building of the playground,” he added.

He recognized Karen Clarke, a major benefactor of the playground project, and Christine der Linde who led the effort in bringing the project to fruition.

“I applaud all of you for the service which you have given to improve the quality of life and education of students at the Beacon School. This gift impacts students who come from as far as McCleans Town in the East, and West End to attend the school.”

“I salute you for your tenacity even when faced with many obstacles during the project,” he said.

Mr Fitzgerald said that Rotarians went beyond just building a playground. He said they made renovations and repairs to other areas in the school to ensure a safe environment for the students.

“You truly exemplify your motto, ‘service above self,” he said.

Benefactor Karen Clarke said the money invested in the project was well spent. “I don’t think our money could have gone to a better place. The children at the Beach School are not special needs students, they are extraordinary students.”

Ms Clarke believes that Mr Dillet is truly deserving of the honour.

“The short time that I have known him was a privilege. And towards the last days when Billie told him they would be naming the playground in his honour, he was very moved.”

She thanked the GB Shipyard and the Grand Bahama Port Authority for their assistance.

“They require that their employees perform community service and they were very willing to assist us,” she said.

She also commended Gold Rock and other businesses for their contributions and support of the project.