Maple East holds playground dedication assembly
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

The new playground at Maple East Elementary School, a 10,300- square-foot structure located behind the existing wooden playground, was dedicated on Oct. 2. Photo by Joe Eberle Purchase color photos at www.BeeNews.com

It's done. After 18 months of fundraising, the new playground at Maple East Elementary School is officially "open for business."

As the rain came down outside, the school held an indoor dedication ceremony on Oct. 2 for the 10,300-square-foot structure that is located behind the existing wooden playground.

"The old playground is getting toward the end of its useful life," Principal Mary Mallon said about the 17-year-old playground, "But we aren't taking it down at this time."

She added the school community wanted to be ready when that time came, so the plans and fundraising for a new playground started. The Families of Maple East committee, known as FAME II, was then formed. During the 18-month campaign, those involved raised the $125,000 needed for the new playground.

Help also came in the form of state and county grants, administered by Senator Mary Lou Rath, Assemblyman Jim Hayes and County Executive Dr. Barry Weinstein.

The playground, with bright blue, gold and red colors, features "something for everyone," Mallon said. Included are a fitness center, rock climbing walls, five slides, swings and a circle bounce.

The playground is also wheelchair-accessible.

"Everyone is excited about it, the teachers, parents, community and students," Mallon said. "The place is packed on the weekends."

Mallon said it was the parents who came together to plan for a new playground. Various fundraisers were held, including chicken barbecue dinners and fashion shows.

When asked if she was surprised by the high level of support, Mallon said, "No, that's what always happens at Maple East."

"I want to thank Senator Rath, Assemblyman Hayes, Dr. Weinstein, the parents, community, and faculty and staff for working together to provide a wonderful opportunity for the children of the community," she added.

e-mail: jfinch@beenews.com