The Cochrane Legion has launched its third and final phase of fundraising for the Cenotaph project: park beautification. Landscaping, benches and an historical cairn will total $40,000 and the Legion is looking to the community for support. "This is community property. It's something we can give back to the community by giving sweat equity back to the project," said project lead Dave Usherwood, first vice-president of the Cochrane Legion. "We want to make this completely accessible for everyone." Usherwood said both in-kind and monetary donations are welcomed, with the goal to complete as much of the final phase this season or as funds warrant. Plans include removal of the existing soil and replacement with drought-resistant soil and sod. Existing trees and shrubbery will be preserved and some new vegetation will be added. The Cenotaph is located on town-owned and Legion-managed lands at the corner of First Street and Fifth Avenue West. The Legion has embraced the project as a benefit to the entire community and are hopeful more passersby will utilize the park space as site beautification moves forward. Phase one, the centrepiece of the Cenotaph project which got underway around 18 months ago, was revealed last fall ahead of Remembrance Day. Local bronze artists Don Begg and Shirley Stephens-Begg sculpted a bronze of a First World War soldier - revealed to town and provincial dignitaries in a ceremony. The bronze is flanked by flag poles and is atop a pedestal with the names of local lives lost in battle. Phases one and two, namely the walkway, totalled $185,000. Stop by the Cochrane Legion or phone 403-932-2011 to learn more.
