Over the past 18 months, we've spent a lot of time at Project Woodhaven looking at Woodhaven's past. This weekend, we spent some time looking at Woodhaven's future. At Public School 97 - The Forest Park School - their motto is "We grow beautiful minds." But beautiful minds need room to grow, room to run around and play -- and this weekend, PS 97 unveiled their newly re-constructed playground areas for the children to enjoy. We were very fortunate and honored to have been invited, and here is our report.
We were greeted by a polite young group of kids as soon as we entered the building. This was a Friday afternoon and that typically translates into smiles on the kids faces. But today was a special day, one long anticipated and talked about.
We were led to the back of the school where the kids were in the midst of last-minute rehearsals. And then they began leading the rest of the school outside. It was a chilly afternoon, so they also brought out some blankets for the kids. Pretty soon the schoolyard was getting full. Were we ever really that young? Seems so long ago. Shortly, our guest speakers arrived and took their place at the table of honor. From left to right: State Senator Joe Addabbo, Assemblyman Mike Miller, District 27 Family Advocate Margaret Finnerty, City Councilman Eric Ulrich, Executive Director of The Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Maria Thomson, and Raymond Calavera of District 27's Community Education Council. Here is our video report on the ceremonies, including each guest's words to the children. And a special thanks to all -- it was a cold and blustery afternoon and they kept their remarks brief.
It was a terrific afternoon and we were very happy to be there. The ceremonies began with the Pledge of Allegiance. And then we were treated to a few dances. First up, a ballet rendition accompanied by "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star." Then a few Pinochios entertained the crowd. One of the Pinocchios kept losing his nose to the delight of the children. And finally a jazz dance wrapped up the ceremony. All of the kids were taught by Deneille's Dance Studio. Principal Maureen Ingram spoke to the children and Woodhaven Children's Librarian Ken Gordon sang a few songs. Everyone was getting ready for the big moment. And then, we moved over to the playground's entrance and Principal Ingram cut the ribbon, officially opening PS 97's new playground. If was a terrific day -- many thanks to all of our elected officials who made this happen, along with all of the community leaders and the teachers and the parents who came together to give these beautiful minds and beautiful playground to match. Want to see more? Click here for Part Two of this report - lots more pictures!
If you have any comments, or would like to suggest other projects, drop us a line at info@projectwoodhaven.com or projectwoodhaven@aol.com .
