Playground wraps up summer of fun

The threat of rain did not deter hundreds of kids from attending the last day of the Moose Jaw Playground Program held at Elgin Park Thursday.
The playground program held its final event of the summer, which had a circus theme and was called "Under the Big Top."
The children could enjoy a face painting station, a Dino-Bouncer jolly jump, swimming in the Elgin Park pool, popcorn and cotton candy, a scavenger hunt and the traditional tug of war that ends the summer program.
"We have had lots of fun this summer," said Jasmine Jackman, recreation program supervisor. "The kids really enjoy the tug of war event and this year we (had) the directors against the kids."
Throughout the summer each playground group across the city held fundraisers to raise money for the final day.
"The playgrounds have worked really hard this summer raising money through car washes, bottle drives and bake sales," said Jackman. "It has given them a sense of accomplishment to see that they have raised enough money for all the events here today."
Jackman said the program had a lot of parental involvement, particularly with the special events and drives.
All the extra money raised will go back into the playground program for next year.
"The summer program has been well attended this year. The kids have had a great time even though the summer weather hasn't been the greatest," said Jackman.
The directors had to be creative this summer creating indoor activities and crafts to keep the children entertained on wet days, said Jackman.
"Eventually the kids got used to it raining and just continued with their games and activities outside," said Jackman.
For Emily Chrismann, 12, it was a bittersweet day as next year she will be too old to participate in the program.
"This is my last year and it has been my favourite so far," said Chrismann. "Today has been so much fun. I got my face painted like a vampire. I've enjoyed the special activities and had a great summer."
Emily Blackmore, 6, said her favourite part of the summer playground program was making new friends.
"It's great to see everyone, I had so much fun this summer and I have some new friends," said Blackmore.
Joy Bain, whose granddaughter attended the program this summer, thinks it's a great way to keep children entertained throughout the summer.
"It's fabulous," said Bain.
"It gives kids structure in the summer months. It's great physical activity and it keeps them away from television and computers."

Colin Dewar can be reached at 691-1263