I don't know if we have any PTA/PTO members from Lakewood Elementary in Belton, Texas participating in the Forum. However, I'd definitely like to recognize their parent group for its resourcefulness and perseverance this last weekend!
A niece of mine attends there, and we stopped by their Fall festival since I was in town for the day. Like most, this was their BIG event - games, concessions, displays, activities, a fire truck/safety demo, etc. etc.
Well, the area had huge storms the night before and tornado damage in the surrounding towns. They had planned to use outside areas, the cafeteria, the gym, and the main hallway for the activities. Saturday dawned cloudy, rainy, and muddy. And at some point the school lost all electrical power!
Yet, they still had their fair! Somehow, they rounded up a few small generators to run the concessions. They crammed everything they could into the cafeteria and covered entrance. Parents cheerfully sold concessions while rain drizzled down on them, leaving the few better-covered areas for the games. The gym and hallway were too dark to use, and escorts with flashlights led people back and forth to the restrooms.
I don't know how they came out financially, but the place was packed and everyone was making the best of it. I really admire their spirit!!
[This message has been edited by JHB (edited 10-15-2001).]
