Don't miss the fall festival at the Tall Oaks community center in Lake Ridge on Halloween day, this Saturday. The festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will include a rededication of the "fantasy playground," a grassroots community project undertaken in 1989.
The day's activities include carnival-themed contests and a Moon Bounce, a children's costume contest and parade at 11 a.m., a mouse hunt followed by a build-a-scarecrow event (bring your own clothes and accessories) and jack o'lantern judging. You can also check out vendors' wares from across the region.
At noon, the fantasy playground will be rededicated by local leaders.
The realization of a community project undertaken and funded by volunteers and local businesses in the Lake Ridge area took on shape and substance in the completion of playground almost 20 years ago.
It all started with the vision and determination of Diana Garvey, a Lake Ridge homeowner. She researched the New York-based firm of architect Robert Leathers and worked with Lake Ridge Parks and Recreation Association board members for donation of the land and maintenance.
Garvey also formed the Creative Playground Committee of 12 coordinators to oversee everything from public relations, child care, tools, food and supply donations to a five-day work schedule from Oct. 25 to 29, 1989, for more than 1,000 volunteers who worked in shifts from 7 a.m. until after dinner.
Today, this playground remains a safe, fun place where the community's children play, thanks to the diligent efforts of LRPRA's maintenance staff. Kids who played here years ago have grown up and now bring their children to enjoy this playground, and the volunteer builders are bringing their grandchildren.
On Saturday, in conjunction with the Lake Ridge Association's fall Festival, a rededication ceremony will be held in the Tall Oaks Community Center parking lot at noon. There will be an anniversary cake for everyone to enjoy, and balloons will be handed out to the children.
For more information, call the recreation department at 703-491-2154.
Sally Vincent is communications director at the Lake Ridge Parks and Recreation Association.
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