BSCTC HOLDS FORMAL DEDICATION OF MAYO PARK, USHERS IN HOLIDAY SEASON

Big Sandy Community and Technical College (BSCTC) unveiled sponsors of its Mayo Park and ushered in the holidays with a lighting ceremony on Monday, December 2.

The Highlands Foundation, a part of the Highlands Health System, was named as the sponsor of the park. The gazebo was named after the Witten and Trimble family (Bob and Debbie Trimble Witten) in honor of former Paintsville Mayor James S. Trimble and Johnson County Judge James C. Witten.

Its been a year of celebration at Big Sandy Community and Technical College, said BSCTC President and CEO Dr. George D. Edwards. This year, the college celebrated three milestone anniversaries 75 years of service at the Mayo campus, 50 years as the former Prestonsburg Community College and 10 years as Big Sandy Community and Technical College. Weve been successful because of our students, our employees and because of the generosity and support of community partners.

Denny Dorton, who chairs the Highlands Foundation, said the addition of the Mayo Park to the city of Paintsville and surrounding area brings attention to health and wellness.

Our purpose at the foundation is to promote healthcare and establish programs for community education and wellness, said Dorton. Over the years, we have enjoyed a great working relationship with the college, and we are glad to be a part of bringing this beautiful park to the community.

The park, complete with a 24-foot gazebo, pergola, manicured gardens and landscaping, picnic tables, benches and swings, sits on the site of the former Building B on the Mayo campus. Building B, built in 1955, was razed over the summer due to safety concerns.

The construction of the park also demonstrates the colleges effort in sustainability. Park benches and swings were constructed of recycled plastic, and all mulch at the park was recycled.

Tommy Trimble, who represented the Trimble and Witten family, said his family, like many others, have benefited from the colleges presence in the community.

My grandmother, May, earned her degree here and later taught classes here at Mayo, he said. Our family is pleased to be a part of this beautiful addition to our community.

The event ended with the lighting of the park, singing of Christmas carols and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Through the Big Sandy College Educational Foundation, Inc., the college has awarded more than $350,000 in scholarships this year and more than $1.3 million since 2010. To learn more about giving opportunities, contact Kelli Hall at (606) 886-7382 or email kelli.hall@kctcs.edu.