Watch CBS News

West Philly Community Park Gets Major Makeover

By Justin Udo

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Dozens of volunteers packed in the East Parkside residence park in West Philadelphia Sunday to paint benches, flower boxes and a new mural -- all in an effort to give the park a facelift.

mural 2
(Credit: Justin Udo)

At 85 years old, this was Calla Cousar's first time painting a mural. She says being able to brighten up the community that she's called home for a majority of her life brings a tear to her eyes:

"I really can't describe it because I'm trying to keep my pressure down and all, but I am excited.  I am truly happy to live to see this day."

She adds she loved every minute of this experience and her contribution:

"I'm very proud of it, it's a quilt pattern and it's beautiful and I can't wait to see it go up on the wall."

 

mural 3
(Credit: Justin Udo)

Eight-year-old Michael was another volunteer who helped give the park a new look.

"I like art and I like painting," he said.

The mural, commissioned by "Wawa Welcome America," carries a theme of Black American quilts created before the Civil War and it's titled "North Star Journey to Freedom."

Officials say the mural should be up and ready for display by September.

Check Out These Other Stories:

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.