Flamingo fundraiser aims to have park project in the pink

EAST HOPE – City officials have started a fundraiser that involves more than a few of not-so-feathered friends — plastic pink flamingos.

The city has resumed efforts for the park project in front of the East Hope School in the middle of town. In order to turn the park into a reality, the city has launched a number of fundraisers, including East Hope Mayor Vernon Fleisher participating in the Blue Cross Mayors Challenge, walking 10,000 steps a day during October, and raising $1,000.

Since beginning the project, through donations and fundraising, the city has been able to purchase a playground set, picnic table, and built a memorial wall to honor veterans.

In May 2021, the city was also able to honor veterans with a “Veteran Memorial Wall” located across the street from what is now the Hope Market. The project was funded entirely from donations. With a $5,000 initial investment from a long-time resident and a $2,000 donation from the Bonner County Gardners Association, businesses, and community members came together to raise the money.

The wall pays respect to any honorably discharged veterans, regardless of their community connection, with a plaque that can be purchased for $125.

Running May 1-31, the city’s latest fundraiser will see neighbors flocking each other's yards with a flock of flamingos.

Neighbors can tickle each other pink by reserving a flock, which are available at different prices and sizes, with a reservation form. The flock of their choosing is then placed in their chosen neighbor’s yard as a fun surprise for the day. Neighbors who want to avoid getting flocked can purchase “insurance” for $30 as a precaution. The insurance will protect those who purchase it from getting flocked by a neighbor.

Reservations are limited to two flocks a day. Reservations and insurance can be purchased by stopping by Hope city hall or going online bit.ly/3LNS3JU