Murfreesboro resident Elicia Revelle exemplifies something that makes living in communities like Ahoskie or Gatesville or Murfreesboro special.

(And as she reads this, Revelle is wondering what comes next, because, without a doubt, she does not perceive herself as having done anything extraordinary.)

In January of 2008, a group of people at Murfreesboro Baptist Church perceived a need to update the playground equipment at their church. As they set about doing that, Elicia Revelle took the lead.

The project was completed within the past 30 days and celebrated last week with a dedication ceremony and cook-out at the church.

The new equipment replaces equipment given to the church some 20 years ago by Hugh and Janet Vincent in memory of their son, Kevin Vincent.

The new playground is actually two playgrounds, one for younger children – ages 2-5 – and the other for youngsters ages 5-12. Both are fenced and both rest on beds of mulch that provides a safe play environment.

Also included are swings and a basketball court.

And there is a picnic shelter intended to be used not just by church members, but by the whole community as a place to celebrate birthdays, have family picnics “or just get out of the sun,” Revelle said.

The playground project has been funded with donations and through the sales of cookbooks. (Cookbooks are still available, Revelle says.)

A lot of people worked on making the playground a reality. Elicia Revelle provided the leadership and for that she deserves recognition.

The playground is behind the church, which is on Main Street in Murfreesboro. Check it out.