Lake of Shining Waters IODE started to develop the park in 2000 with the addition of a gazebo and signage. The Joseph A. Ghiz Memorial Park is maintained in partnership with the Parks and Recreation Department.
The grand opening of the Joseph A. Ghiz Memorial Park was held with a special celebration at the park September 21, 2001. This was a Lake of Shining Waters IODE Centennial Millennium Citizenship Project. Major enhancements were done during the 2001 summer under the guidance and leadership of Project Coordinator, Marlene Bryenton.
During the construction of the park in 2001 Marlene was undergoing chemotherapy for her second bout with breast cancer and credits the park for helping her through the healing process.
In January 2006 Lake of Shining Waters IODE decided to divest themselves of any further financial responsibilities for the park.
This decision sparked the launch of the Dr. Marlene Bryenton Ghiz Park Fund on February 26, 2006. A goal to raise $25,000 over the next five years was set which will generate approximately $1000 in interest. This money will be used to purchase annuals in perpetuity for the Joseph A Ghiz Memorial Park.
Marlene Bryenton is the Project Coordinator responsible for the development, fundraising and acquisition of materials and services. She also supervises teams of volunteers who help to maintain the park one day per week.
The official launch of the Dr. Marlene Ghiz Park Fund was held at city hall. A reception was held following the ceremony.
Speakers at the event included Mayor Clifford Lee, Dr. Donald Glendenning, Robert Ghiz, Dr. Marlene Bryenton and Sue Hendricken.
In photo: Nancy McMinn, Parks and Recreation Parks Superintendant Dr. Marlene Bryenton and Sue Hendricken Manager Parks and Recreation Department, City of Charlottetown
