S'Mores Night Raises Funds for Katonah Memorial Park Association

Kids stood in bunches of two and three, arms stiffly extended to the burning charcoal, waiting for their jumbo marshmallows to turn the perfect shade of brown—for some a pale honey, other, a charred black—and then stepped back to create the classic summertime concoction of melting chocolate, gooey marshmallow and crisp graham cracker.

They were there for the Katonah Memorial Park Association's Fourth Annual S'Mores Night, held at the park's upper shelter Thursday night. Families picnicked on blankets and children danced alongside the musical entertainment from The Differents.

The event was a fundraiser for the 64-year-old association, which originated as the "Committee for a Permanent Memorial," in connection with "Welcome Home Day" for World War II veterans, held in 1946. The day was conceived of and led by the park's pioneer, Paul A. Noe.

After the committee's incorporation, 45 acres were acquired, according to history provided by Ann Hanley, KMPA president. The park was formally dedicated on Memorial Day 1950.

"We're really stewards of the park," she said. "We work with the town to make general enhancements and improvements to the structures here."

In 1972 the Katonah Park District was formed, after the association voted to transfer the park property to the Town of Bedford. In the last decade, the association, with the oversight of the town, refurbished the War Memorial located at the pool entrance, donated park benches, and beautified the flag pole with plantings in honor of Noe.

The KMPA has also made upgrades to the pool house, tennis courts, trails and fields. Recently, the association opened the ceiling of the aging shelter and installed skylights.

"Proceeds from tonight's event will fund the next project—to open up the fireplace, which has been boarded up for years," said Hanley. "We want to make it a nice place for families to reserve."

Sales were brisk, with residents streaming up the hill to meet friends and neighbors, kick off summer and support the park.

Shelter renovations are expected to be completed within a year or two.