Yabba-dabba-eww.
Erin Dorgan of Fircrest and her mother-in-law, Mary Dorgan, of Lakewood were distressed last year when they spied the deteriorating Fred Flintstone statue at the popular toddler play area in Fircrest.
They weren’t alone.
“Some of the children that were there thought it was a monster,” recalled Mary, a Tacoma kindergarten teacher. “All the paint had worn off … and the kids were kind of afraid of it.”
Fred’s poor condition animated mother and daughter alike. Erin is a big fan of the ’60s cartoon and has collected memorabilia of Fred, Wilma and Dino since she was a kid. She frequently takes her 2-year-old son, Lathan, to the Tot Lot, a popular spot for Fircrest families.
Erin kept mentioning she wanted to freshen up Fred. With some prodding and support from her mother-in-law, Erin approached the City Council in July.
Mary said she spent about $100 on paint, brushes and other supplies, and Erin spent between 15 and 20 hours during the month of August painting the statue. There was no cost to the city.
Erin said children would gather around to watch her paint and offer suggestions.
The Dorgans’ effort made the front page of this month’s edition of the city newsletter. Mayor David Viafore praised the women for their volunteer effort.
“It’s a prime example of why I’ve always said we’re the jewel of Pierce County,” he said.
The statue is at least 18 years old. City Manager Rick Rosenbladt said it was born when the city cut down a tree in the Tot Lot, and two parks workers suggested the stump be kept and carved. Enumclaw wood sculptor Joaquin Quezada created the statue.
The Dorgans aren’t done with Fred. They’re interested in dressing him up on holidays and, with city approval, having treats for children.
Erin, who’s studying at Pierce College to become an occupational therapist, said the project gave her confidence to follow her dreams, and she’s happy that her work has brought smiles to adults and children alike.
“I didn’t think people would care too much,” she said, “but they really seemed to appreciate it.”
Christian Hill: 253-274-7390
christian.hill@thenewstribune.com
Twitter: @TNTchill
SEE IT
You can visit the Tot Lot at the corner of Contra Costa Avenue and Ramsdell Street in Fircrest.
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