Murray Parents, staff, and residents, joined with political leaders in celebrating the 51st year of the Murray Parents Association on Sunday with a parade, dedication of a new Memorial Garden, and a dance for the residents.
A color guard, Centralia Junior High band, Centralia Police and Fire led off the parade that was followed by numerous decorated golf carts and other entries from parents, staff, and Murray Center residents.
After the parade, a dedication and ribbon cutting was held for a Memorial Garden in the center of Murray Center. Murray Center Association President Rita Winkeler told those gathered the Murray Parents are a small group that hasn’t given up in keeping the center open.
“The Murray Parents Association is here to advocate for everyone who lives here not just our own children. We’ve been through some really bad times. We’ve been through several closures, the last one was horrific. We think we have lived through the pandemic. We are still here. Our individuals are safe and loved. As the future goes on I think we are going to continue to be here. This garden proves the many people whose lives have been touched.”
State Representative Charlie Meier received applause when noting the Murray Center Parents had the longest ongoing restraining order against the state dating back to a closure effort ten years ago.
“See in the bricks. This is just to help us all remember what we’ve been through and the fight this group has worked so hard for.”
State Representative Blaine Wilhour noted it is great to have a facility in Southern Illinois that serves residents of the entire state.
“Every Representative up there knows who the Murray Parents are. That’s a real testament to you guys, Rita and the crew and all of you guys to make sure you make your presence known up there. And we are just so proud to be a small part of this.”
State Senator Terri Bryant told the residents they are so awesome and congratulated them on a great parade.
“There are so many people who really care about you guys and really care about this special place that you live in and want to keep it healthy. So my first act as Senator was to ask that I could be the Minority Spokesperson so your voice in the Senate as the ranking Republican on the Behavioral and Mental Health Committee. So we are going to continue to fight for you to make sure you get the money and voice that you need.”
Former State Representative John Cavaletto encouraged the group to continue to fight to keep the center open, while Centralia Mayor Bryan Kuder thanked the legislators for their work.
Murray Center Director Lori Demijan commended the work of the Murray Parents in making the facility a nice place from providing care items to residents and helping to beautify the grounds each year with beautiful flowers.
