There was so much to do and discover on March 1 at the “Strengthening Families Fair”, funded by the Department of Early Education & Care, and coordinated by the Old Rochester Regional School District. The gymnasium at the ORR High School was set up like a kids’ wonderland, with art projects, reading activities, brightly-colored gymnastics equipment, a flowing rainbow parachute, and…everyone’s favorite local children’s music group, “the Toe Jam Puppet Band.” Storyteller “Big Ryan” brought storybooks to life with his animated storytelling and puppet friends, delighting the kids and getting them moving. Every local organization and business that caters to children and families was invited, including the YMCA, Tri-Town Project, the Tri-Town area libraries, and the Mattapoisett Fire & Rescue, who gave demos on car seat safety and offered info on home safety. “It’s about getting your kids moving and eating right and doing fun and healthy activities,” said Coordinator Doreen Lopes. The annual event was free to the public, and each child who attended received a free book and coloring book.
By Jean Perry