For two wonderful decades, Annie Laura Boyd Davis, affectionately known as “Miss Laura,” was the heartbeat of our local park. Through her dedicated work with 4-H and the FAMU Home Extension Service, she created a year-round sanctuary for children, offering a bright and steady light during long summer breaks and after school hours. While her doors were open to every child in Blountstown, she felt a special calling to support children of color, ensuring they had a place where they truly belonged. Miss Laura filled their days with learning and laughter, from hands-on projects to exciting 4-H competitions and educational field trips. Her kindness knew no bounds; she believed that every child deserved to participate, regardless of their family’s bank account. If a child couldn’t afford craft supplies or trip fees, Miss Laura quietly covered the costs herself, ensuring no one ever felt left behind. Under her gentle guidance, children blossomed, proudly bringing home top honors from regional and state art competitions. Beyond the children, she cared deeply for the whole community, teaching adults how to grow gardens, sew clothes, and create beautiful ceramics to support their families. She even led fitness and stretching classes, knowing that a healthy body leads to a happy life. Her tireless devotion eventually earned her the title of Florida Paraprofessional Employee of the Year. Her generosity didn’t stop at the town line, either. After finishing her long days in Blountstown, she and her friend Mrs. Rosa Lane would drive to Hugh Creek and Bristol, making sure those children also had a chance to play and learn. Miss Laura retired in 1996 after twenty years of service that changed countless lives. Though she left us in July 2020 at the age of 83, her legacy lived on in the hearts of those she mentored. In October 2024, the very park where she worked so hard was officially named in her honor, and in July 2025, we began hosting children’s activities once again to keep her beautiful spirit alive.