King Arthur's Castle Renovated by East Fresno Rotary
Rotary Storyland celebrates its 50th anniversary on Saturday, May 19th. When the official 50th anniversary celebration is presented to the community, East Fresno Rotary will be asked to step forward and accept full recognition for helping to preserve a Fresno tradition for many generations to come – King Arthur’s Castle in Storyland. East Fresno Rotary and all its members are a driving force in continuing the tradition of forming permanent family memories for children and their parents throughout central California.
Over the past months, East Fresno Rotarians have respectfully rejuvenated the castle and all the furnishings within. The exterior and interior have been painted. Fresh flags are royally displayed atop the towers. Locks and steel gates blocking the interior spiral stairway to the upper observation level have been removed to allow children to experience the joy of ascending the castle stairs to view the surrounding kingdom. The King’s Throne inside the royal chamber with the legendary Round Table has been given a coat of fresh paint, as well as the royal floor. Dingy lighting has been replaced with happy sunbeams illuminating bright walls and banners throughout. Overgrown trees around the castle were professionally trimmed, to provide spectacular views of the castle. They rolled up their sleeves and did the work on site to spruce up the royal courtyard. Several work party weekends were staffed by EFR members. They trimmed the trees and hedges, spread wood chips in the planters, cleaned out the waterfall, creek and moat surrounding the castle. Railing on the observation deck on top of the castle and fresh paint all around happened because of the care and attention given by these Rotarians in action.
As was done for Rotary Storyland in the past, EFR has established itself as a champion of Rotary Storyland and its ideals. So far, EFR Rotarians have committed $16,000 hard-earned dollars to renovate the castle and the surrounding landscaping and courtyard. Club President, Mark Wilson, and his board of directors have shown their commitment to provide “whatever it takes” to bring this iconic Fresno landmark back to its original pristine condition for the enjoyment of the children and families throughout our San Joaquin Valley.
Without a doubt, East Fresno Rotarians (EFR) are worthy of acceptance into the royal circle of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table in our beloved Rotary Storyland.
