Posted on May 24, 2007

WHITIN COMMUNITY CENTER’S 19th ANNUAL PICNIC IN THE PARK BENEFIT EVENT – FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! The Whitin Community Center’s 19th annual Picnic in the Park celebration will take place on Saturday, June 9th from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The rain date is Sunday, June 10th from 12:00pm – 4:00 pm. “We are very excited about this year’s celebration of community spirit,” said WCC director Charles E. Thompson. “A committee of volunteers has worked on this event for several months and they have recruited great entertainment and family attractions that will ensure a wonderful day for all.” The entertainment begins at 10:30 am and will go until 3:00 pm. The Blackstone Valley Chorus will kick off the festivities 10:30 a.m. This great event will also feature performances and demonstrations by the JoAnn Warren Dance Studio (11:30 am), Women of Note (1:00 pm) and Family Karate Center (2:00 pm). According to event co-chairman Sharon Morrow, “The Northbridge fire department will be back by popular demand with their Foam Extravaganza, Hazard House, Freddy Fire Truck, an ambulance, and a fire truck.” The Foam Extravaganza will take place at 3:00 pm. The fire department will pump foam on the lawn for children to run through. As Sharon states, “the children have a blast running through this giant pile of soap suds!” Co-chairman Sue VanderZicht points out “many family favorites will be offered this year. These include the popular dunk tank, moonwalk, rock climbing wall, petting farm and hay rides, children’s crafts, and the walkway of vendors and crafters selling their wares, providing information, and doing demonstrations. Children can also participate in Silly Olympics for the first time this year.” Silly Olympics include “Move the Balloons” at 10:00am, “Egg-Stacle” at 11:00 am, “Pop’em Fast” at 12:00 noon, and “Leap, Spin, Dunk” at 1:00 pm. Awards will be given to the top 3 in two age groups – Under 11 and 11-15. Because of the generous contributions of a number of area business sponsors who underwrite the cost to procure the attractions, the fee to participate is minimal so even the largest families can come out and do everything and have a good time. There will be lots of grilled foods to tantalize the taste buds and bakers for the bake sale are signing up now to contribute their home baked specialties. Admission and entertainment are free. Major event sponsors include VanderZicht Real Estate and Wal-Mart. The event attracts an estimated 3,000 people who come together to enjoy all that the regional community has to offer. All proceeds from Picnic in the Park benefit the Whitin Community Center, a non-profit organization that serves the families of the Blackstone Valley region with social, recreational, health & fitness, and outreach programs. The Whitin Community Center is a private, non-profit, community-based organization serving the Blackstone Valley since 1922. The Whitin Community Center is committed to enhancing the health and well-being of individuals and families and building a strong community in the Blackstone Valley. We offer social, recreational, educational, and outreach programs that bring community members of all ages and backgrounds together. The Whitin Community Center is the Blackstone Valley’s most complete family and recreation center with two swimming pools, a gym, a fitness center, child care and after school programs, summer camps and a seven-acre park. For more information call 508.234.8184 or visit www.OurGym.org. # # #