The Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce brought out the big scissors this morning as students, staff and community assembled at HAPS school for a ribbon cutting in celebration of their new outdoor tent. Donated by Farmers Bank & Trust, the tent will serve as an outdoor space for many open air activities for the students.

Principal of HAPS, Dr. Carol Ann Duke is very appreciative of their new addition. "We are so blessed with this community partnership that has allowed us to create an outdoor space for band, physical education, gardening, food and play time. We hope that this is just the beginning of how we remodel and refurbish our backyard," Duke said.

President of Farmers Bank & Trust, Jacob Jones said, "We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with Hope Public Schools and provide the tent for the students. We are always looking for ways that we can lend a helping hand to the school system and to the community."

Superintendent of Hope Public Schools, Bobby Hart said a few words thanking Farmers Bank & Trust for their partnership, saying that they have been fantastic partners and expressing his gratitude to the staff and students for their time and work on their project.

Mayor Don Still was also present and talked about his memories on that very playground. He was grateful for the partnership between Farmers Bank & Trust and HAPS school. Saying, "HAPS and the academy is one of the shining lights of the Hope school system."

After the ribbon was cut, the celebration ended with beautiful melodies played by band students who were seated under the structure while the crowd of students and citizens listened with joy. It was a happy day for all who attended.