08/22/2013
Your next Bob-In sundae will help build a safer playground
You may be thinking, “How can enjoying a delicious sundae at Bob-In, Again benefit anyone but myself?” It’s all about balance...
In 2012, St. Francis Xavier School launched a Wellness Committee to develop a policy that would set guidelines for a healthier mind, body and spirit. In supporting a healthy body, the committee teamed up with the school’s PTO to embarked on a much needed playground makeover. In addition, St. Francis School is partnering with HGTV host, Carter Oosterhouse, and his non-profit organization, Carter’s Kids, to design and build the playground.
At first it may seem counterintuitive to pair ice cream (or frozen custard, in this case) with a project intended to keep our children fit, but that’s just the point. A healthy life is achieved by a healthy balance. “Part of our committee’s mission is to teach children and families that you can still enjoy some of life’s delicious treats - just make sure you balance that with physical activity,” shared Kathy Coveyou, SFX Wellness Committee Co-Chair.
So, for the week starting September 2nd, 2013, Robert Rogier, owner of Bob-In, Again, will be donating $1 for every sundae sold (size small or larger), to the St. Francis Xavier School playground project. “We’re very excited about this project,” says Robert, “Our goal is to donate upwards of $2,000.”
As the closest playground to Petoskey’s Gaslight District where locals and summer visitors shop and dine (and often look for a place to occupy their children), and a favorite shaded play area for hundreds of families living downtown, this playground sees a lot of activity.
“With our play structures nearing expiration, it was time to make a change,” said Fr. Dennis Stilwell, Pastor of St. Francis Xavier Parish and School, “Carter was a student of mine back when I taught Religion in Traverse City, we’re very pleased to be working with him.”
The project includes rearranging the play areas to better suit age appropriate play. By moving the climbing structures closer to the school building smaller children will no longer have to cross the playing field where middle school boys typically play touch football. It’ also puts them closer to the bathrooms. In addition, St. Francis is redirecting its storm water run-off. Significant financial support has come from Petoskey’s Noon Rotary Park Fund grant, a matching grant from an anonymous school family, and Petoskey’s Knights of Columbus. Additional grants are pending and commemorative engraved bricks to be installed on the playground are being sold.
“The failing drainage in the parking lot [where kids play basketball, hopscotch and jump rope], results, each spring, in what the students have dubbed ‘Lake St. Francis.’ By installing new catch basins and directing any remaining overflow to Michigan St. we will eliminate the safety hazards caused by flooding and freezing in that area,” added Dan Cleary, SFX PTO President.
"We're inviting everyone to the Bob-In next week to enjoy an ‘end of the summer sundae.’ Shared Marie Law, Wellness Committee Co-Chair. “You'll be supporting a local business, supporting a community project and delighting in a delicious treat, all at the same time. Everyone’s participation is much appreciated...It’s the cherry on top [of our fundraising efforts].
For more information, please visit www.sfxwellness.com or call Marie Law at 231-330-2835.
