PENDLETON- Spectators at Warberg Court at Pendleton High School will have an easier time getting to and from their seats this year thanks to a new set of bleacher railings to be installed before school starts.

Karen Gipson spearheaded the effort to raise money for two sets of railings, at $4,000 each, which will allow easier access to bleacher seating.

“Over the years, it’s been sad to see some of our parents and grandparents try to get up the bleachers,” Gipson said before the Pendleton School Board in July. “I hope everyone will benefit from this, not just those at the school, but also those visiting.”

The School Board agreed in July to pay for the new railings until Gipson and other parents are able to raise the funding. Thanks to $880 in grants approved by the board Monday night and an additional $500 raised in July, the bleacher railing fund has grown to $1,380.

“Karen, I thank you for this,” said board member Pat Sullivan. “I know I will personally benefit from this.”

Gipson also sent letters to local businesses in search of financial support. Board member Jake Cambier, who, along with his wife Cathy, donated $100 toward the fund, volunteered to approach service groups and make a presentation to solicit funds.

In other School Board news, the board agreed to change its regular September board meeting from Monday, Sept. 13, to Monday, Sept. 20, due to Round-Up activities. The board will still meet at 7:30 p.m. at the administration office.