By Sue Suchyta
Sunday Times Newspapers
WYANDOTTE – Marge Roberts, a resident of the Bishop Cooperative Apartments and her supporters, have been honored by city officials for their fundraising support effort for the Purple Heart Memorial Garden project.
Natalie Rankine, the city’s special projects coordinator and a licensed architect, said Roberts and her volunteers had raised $750 with a tea sale and $700 with a bake sale. A walkathon is slated for Sept. 10.
“I get these ideas, and I get my friends, and they all say ‘yes,’” Roberts said.
Mayor Joseph Peterson presented a certificate of appreciation and flowers to Roberts and her team at the Aug. 17 City Council meeting.
A local veteran initially approached the Wyandotte Beautification Commission for help to restore the statue and the landscaping around it. Since then, Rankine, a license architect, has been involved in every facet of the project, from design to fundraising.
“The statue itself has great historical significance, as it is the first of its kind to be donated in the entire USA,” said Rankin.
Of the $220,000 needed for the renovation, $170,000 has been raised. Donors may purchase an engraved paver or make a monetary donation.
For more information visit www.wyandotte.net or call (734) 324-7284.