With thirteen AYSO soccer teams, Seymour Middle School, local residents and various community events utilizing the Seymour Community Park, one would think that the park is receiving sufficient funding.
The truth is, Seymour Community Park receives approximately 10% of the funding that Sevierville City Park receives. Recent acts of vandalism and burglary have only increased the strain on an already-struggling budget.
“The park needs upgrades. New park equipment, grills and picnic tables. Just the basics, nothing fancy,” said Kristie Douglas, an AYSO soccer coach and player. “Park activity is broadening. It now hosts tournament soccer games with teams from Knoxville, Alcoa and Maryville. There is even talk of a summer camp being held there.”
“After attending the Seymour Community Easter Eggstravagnza at the park last month, we recognized what an amazing job grounds keeper Jim Green has done with what has been provided. But at the same time, we see the potential the park has if a larger budget was available. We decided that day that it was time to rally community support and raise some money,” Dereke Ashe, of Big Mama’s Karaoke Café said.
Last month’s Seymour Community Easter Eggstravaganza brought out hundreds of local residents for the Easter egg hunt, games, karaoke and other various activities. “We felt that as a community event, the park was the perfect venue. It’s a safe, neutral environment that anyone can attend and feel comfortable,” remarked Carmen Shape, one of the organizers of Eggstravaganza. “Plus, we really wanted to raise awareness for the park. Many people aren’t even aware that Seymour has a park.”
Big Mama’s Karaoke Café will be hosting a Pancake Dinner at the café on Sunday May 4, from 5 to 9 pm. Anyone is welcome to attend and tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. The $5 ticket price includes pancakes, sausage, orange juice and karaoke.
The event is staffed completely by volunteers, and local businesses are donating items for a silent auction. All money raised from ticket sales and auctions will be donated directly to Seymour Community Park. Big Mama’s Karaoke Cafe’ is inviting the Seymour and south Knoxville business community to join this worthwhile fundraiser by donating items for the silent auction.
If you would like to make a donation, purchase a ticket or ask how you can show your support, please contact Derek at Big Mama’s Karaoke Café, (865) 609-0208.
