THOMPSON FALLS - In what started as an old playground site, the area at Rose Garden Park is now home to the newest playground in the city. On April 15, members of the community as well as eager kids came to witness the grand opening.

Members of the community as well as representatives from the Columbia Brigade the North American Land Surveyors were on hand for the grand opening.

“It really blesses me that strangers who came to our community took us in and supported out community,” said Thompson Falls Mayor Carla Parks.

There were refreshments available as well as a display of the planned additions to the park in the future.

The members of the Fort Thompson Playground Committee were on hand to witness the result of the hard work they put in to accomplishing their goal. These members were Cody Best, Mayor Carla Parks, Penny Torgrimson, Linda Rocheleau, Rita Lundgren, Katy Walton, Lynn Cooper, Jennifer Fielder.

“This project was born from volunteer grassroots ideas,” said Jennifer Fielder. “People wanted to do something to make the town a little nicer and a little prettier place.”

Fielder says playground is only the beginning. The committee plans improve on the area surrounding the playground. One immediate item to be added in the near future is a handicapped accessible drinking fountain. The long-term goal is to make the park more useful for community and picnicking events.

Before the kids were allowed onto the playground, Fielder had a special message for them.

“Kids, this park is for you,” said Fielder. “We want you to take good care because this is your playground.”