Staff Writer

A contribution to the Timken Sports Complex and new jobs are part of Walt Disney's ongoing investment in the people of Union County.

Tuesday, Al Adams, human resource manager for Disney-Shopping.com, presented the county with a check for $10,000 to help finance the construction of the park.

“We went to the Walt Disney company and explained our situation here in Union County, that we were working on a project that would benefit the lives of the citizens of Union County,” he said. “The Disney company was considerate enough to make a $10,000 donation to this project.”

County supervisor Donnie Betenbaugh thanked Disney, pointing out that it is the latest contribution in the company's ongoing effort to help the people of Union County. He said that over the past years, Disney has donated $120,000 worth of clothing and toys to local groups that assist the needy.

“I would like to thank Disney Direct Shopping for all their support,” he said. “Thank you Disney for having your distribution facility in Union County and the jobs you provide to the citizens of Union County.”

Disney's distribution center in the Jonesville area employs 165 people, but Adams said the company plans to expand the work force.

“We just opened a guest services center (and) we're anticipating great things from the guest services center,” he said. “We will be adding about 50-70 more Disney cast members to that with future growth.”