## Making Dreams a Reality in Muskegon Heights
Amidst the tranquil streets of Muskegon Heights, a remarkable community endeavour has emerged. Local entrepreneurs and an enthusiastic social media influencer have united to establish a delightful free sled library at Johnny O Harris Memorial Park. The energy and excitement surrounding this initiative are undeniably infectious, particularly in this traditionally close-knit community.
### A Tribute to a Fallen Hero
Johnny O Harris Memorial Park carries the weight of history. Named after Muskegon Heights Patrolman Johnny O. Harris, who tragically lost his life in 1975 [in the line of duty](https://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/2015/06/looking_back_at_muskegon_heigh.html), the park stands as a symbol of endurance and community spirit. It has long been a beloved site for families seeking a touch of winter magic in the form of sledding down its snowy hills.
### The Origins of a Social Initiative
The brainchild behind the sled library is none other than Marisela Sierra. With deep roots in Muskegon Heights, she dreamt of creating such a facility for years. “I’m really proud and excited to have something positive for our community,” Sierra commented with palpable enthusiasm. Her motivation soared after learning of the park’s history as a sledding haven.
Having just celebrated her fourth year managing Navarro’s, a Tex-Mex restaurant with a rich family legacy, Sierra brings her family’s spirit of giving to her endeavours.
### A Call for Donations and Community Support
Brad Hilleary, the amicable owner of Webb Chemical, eagerly joined Sierra’s vision. Together with his industrious team, they constructed a sturdy six-foot wooden structure to house the sleds. With a call for community donations, the project sprang to life. Melissa Ashley, known on social media as @cibsandibus, promptly donated ten sleds to get things rolling.
The enthusiasm has not waned. Seven more local businesses and organisations have reached out to contribute. Sierra is now strategising a method to store sleds during off-seasons.
### Reviving Community Traditions
Jennifer Ross, the city clerk of Muskegon Heights, fondly recalls a past annual event: the MLK Sled Day. This cherished day, once brimming with joyful tire-sliding children and a lively community atmosphere, has seen a decline since the tumultuous COVID-19 era. Yet, optimism remains high. Sierra hopes this new sled library encourages the return of such cherished traditions.
Furthermore, Ross noted other lovely events: chili cook-offs, community bonfires, and winter coat drives. These allowed neighbours to unite and share warmth during the brisk winter months.
### A Legacy of Community and Cuisine
Navarro’s, nestled at 2537 Eighth St., is a local staple that has transitioned from essentials purveyor to a Tex-Mex dining delight over the decades. Sierra recalls, “We grew up in the kitchen.” Her grandparents, music lovers themselves, originally launched it as a grocery in the late 70s. The delightful scents of homemade Mexican cuisine now gallantly linger where once vinyl records and 8-tracks graced the shelves.
### Looking to the Future
As this vibrant initiative takes root, Sierra remains committed to preserving the tradition. She ardently remarks, “Kids are kids and sleds can get lost or broken.” Thus, an ongoing need for donations is crucial. Her hope is to ensure the sled library remains a fixture for future generations, providing unending joy and enlivening community bonds.
For those captivated by Muskegon’s continuous growth and community-driven projects, more updates can be accessed via the [Muskegon news page](https://www.mlive.com/grand-rapids-muskegon/) or through the daily [3@3 Muskegon](https://link.mlive.com/join/6fh/signup) newsletter, available to all seeking the latest local happenings.
