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    Ryan Kethley accepts his City of Dripping Springs Certificate of Recognition from City Council Member Wade King at Apr. 9 City Hall meeting. CENTURY NEWS PHOTO BY SHARON CARTER

City Recognizes Ryan Kethley for park addition

“I was motivated to do this project because I’m a competitive swimmer and have spent hot summers at the pool in crowds without cover from the sun,” said Ryan

Ryan Kethley was presented a Certificate of Recognition by the Dripping Springs City Council Apr. 9 at a large City Hall gathering. 

The honorary recognition was for his volunteer community service project at Founders Memorial Park Pool: a 10 ft. x 50 ft. shade structure providing swimmers and family essential relief from the Texas sun.      

“I was motivated to do this project because I’m a competitive swimmer and have spent hot summers at the pool in crowds without cover from the sun,” said Ryan, a 15-year-old freshman at Dripping Springs High School. This project has also earned him his Leadership Skill requirement toward Eagle Scout in Troop 101.

Ryan said, “I’d really like to thank “Hill Country Rally for Kids” for an $1800 grant for the materials, my grandparents for their donation, and Home Depot for donating all of the concrete.”   

The shade building is constructed of wood with a metal roof. Ryan copied the design from a small pavilion, nearby, with the intention of wrapping his shelter around an existing telephone pole. However the pole’s wire became an obstacle. He met the challenge, worked out an alternate plan, and a better design. 

“My advice is to overcome obstacles by going through them,” said Ryan, “Don’t get discouraged and avoid them by going around.”

Another great idea is to ask for help. Ryan had experience building small projects with his dad, but “this was big.” Help came from friends, other scouts from the troop, and of course, Dad. Building the structure took approximately 20 hours according to Ryan’s calculations. It was begun on Mar. 16, and completed on Mar. 24. 

When asked if he would do it again, Ryan said, “Well, if someone asked me to design and build something this big again, I would probably only consider it if I was hired.”

Ryan is on the Dripping Springs High School Swim Team, and also runs in DSHS Track and Cross Country meets. A strong math student, he plans on a career in the engineering field.

“We are most appreciative of Ryan’s gift to the City,” Dripping Springs Parks & Community Services Director Mariana Espinoza said, “Our pool patrons are going to love the new addition.”

A spot in the shade is now available at the Founders Memorial Park Pool, which opens on Memorial Day, May 26.  Registration for pool season passes and group swim lessons may be obtained by calling 512-858-0237.

Dripping Springs Century-News

P.O. Box 732
Dripping Springs, Texas 78620

Phone: (512) 858-4163
Fax: (512) 847-9054