A few weeks ago, during Earth Week, my kids and all of their classmates sent a message to the world:
They’re serious. They’re tired of the 60-year-old blacktop that blankets nearly 90% of their play area. They want a ball field or two, shrubs and just about anything that grows from Mother Earth.
So do I. And so do dozens of other parents, teachers, administrators and neighbors who’d like to see this outdated asphalt transformed into a friendlier, greener mixed-use space.
Many volunteers have already worked hard to get the Irving Schoolyard Project underway. A separate group of volunteers has built a set of 20 grow boxes, one for each classroom. [I’ll have more on that later.]
And this weekend, we’re starting the monumental effort to raise the funds needed for the transformation.
On Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., we’re hosting an enormous yard sale featuring storage pods filled to the brim with donated items from more than 50 families.
I volunteered during two of the drop off days and I can tell you there is some really good stuff packed into those pods. We kicked in two complete Thomas sets, a very gently used double stroller and loads of videos and toys.
I personally packed bikes, never used items (I have my eye on a new Snuggie), and saw someone load up a trampoline, stereos, televisions and even a bathroom sink. I’m planning to go load up on “new” books for my kids. One guy brought several van loads of books from what had to be an expansive children’s library.
Plan to come rain or shine. The sale will be inside the school, 1125 S. Cuyler. Admission is $1, free after noon. And items will be priced to move. I’m told all items will be half price after noon as well.
Oh…and tell all your friends!
Coverage of the project:
Oak Leaves: Plastic ‘flowers’ adorn Irving School’s fences
Wednesday Journal: Gimme a G R E E N
Trib Local: Community group looks to add a little green
Virtual Farmgirl 