FROG Community Day is a chance to restore your community and your spirit
by Carroll Moore

If you didn't just fall off the turnip truck (or recently move to the neighborhood) you probably already know this story. And even if you do, it might be good to hear it again.

On Sept. 9, 2001, after more than eight years of community activism, fund raising, planning and hard work, ground was broken on the Friends of the Rockridge-Temescal Greenbelt (FROG) playgrounds. That October, more than 1200 volunteers worked side by side to build the park play structures almost entirely by hand. If you were lucky enough to be a part of the original build, you know what a remarkable and rewarding experience it was. In those sad and uncertain days after 9/11, Frogpark was a place for us to work and be together, joined in community by a powerful and peaceful task.

Rockridge and Temescal had no community playgrounds until dedicated volunteers rolled up their sleeves and created them. It was a labor of love and a gift to our community that re-inspires me all the time. Whenever my family goes to the Greenbelt, I am reminded of this story and grateful that we now have this wonderful park to play in and enjoy. Click here to learn more about the volunteers who made the original community build happen.

What you may not know is that the story and work continues, and that everyone can be a part of the Frogpark playgrounds. As part of the FROG negotiations with the city, the community agreed to help keep the play areas and structures in good shape. Since the park opened, we organize maintenance days in the spring and fall to add new features, clean the play structures and grounds, and do needed repairs. And just as important, it's another chance for us to work in common cause and ensure that the parks will last for another generation. Your next chance to pitch in at your park is coming on Saturday, September 18th, our Fall 2004 Maintenance Day.

The Frogpark playgrounds need the help of everyone who benefits from their use, so come and join your neighbors and friends in some good work and festivities.