The City of Kemp held a dedication ceremony Oct. 25 to name the performance arts stage across from the City Park after deceased Councilman Jerry Wayne Hazelip.
Mayor Laura Peace led the ceremony that she called "brief but meaningful." It included the unveiling of a bonze plaque with a portrait of Hazelip mounted on a marble base.
The stage was put in place earlier in the year. It was constructed from a century-old iron bridge that once ran across Kings Creek on the outskirts of town.
Hazelip helped conceive and design the project. He died of a heart attack Feb. 28 shortly before the construction of the bridge. The stage was the last project he worked on before his death.
Peace said at the time of Hazelip's death that she wanted to name the stage in his honor. The dedication ceremony was held during Homecoming Week.
In addition to serving on the City Council, the Kemp native served in the past on the boards of director for the Humane Society of Cedar Creek Lake and Celebration on the Lake Church.
The plaque reads:
"This stage is dedicated to the memory of Jerry Wayne Hazelip in sincere appreciation for his service to the community he loved. As an example to all, he served his community and those in it, without hesitation or regret. He was a trusted neighbor, true friend and helper of those in need, both man and beast alike. Jerry was always ready with a bright smile, healthy laugh or warm embrace to lift those around him. Thank you, Jerry, for your hard work, civic leadership and love for your community."
"Unless someone like you cares a whole lot, nothing is going to get better, it's not." -- Dr. Seuss
"For Jerry, Oct. 25, 2014. You are missed."