The Pirate Celebrates New Playground for Newton Street
10/14/2008 12:00:00 AM | General
NEWARK The Seton Hall Pirate helped the youngsters at Newton Street School celebrate the opening of a new community playground on the afternoon of October 6th and the ribbon cutting ceremony demonstrated what can happen when people work together.
Newton Street School has a new, modern playground attached to the school thanks to the support of Congregation Ahavas Sholam in collaboration with Green Acres, the Newark Public School and the City of Newark. The playground also received support from over 25 additional sponsors, including Seton Hall University.
“This playground is the result of an ecumenical partnership,” explains Eric Freedman, a representative from Congregation Ahavas Sholom. “This is what happens when everyone works together. I have so many people to thank for their support. It’s a great day for these children.”
Seton Hall, under the direction of former Pirate basketball star and faculty member Dr. Charles Mitchel, has been partnering with Newton Street School for the past three years. Last season, over 200 students enjoyed basketball games at the Prudential Center when they did outstanding work in the classroom. Seton Hall has made a commitment to the youngsters at the school.
“We are extremely pleased to be a small part of the Newton Street initiative,” explained Assistant Athletic Director Jamison Hannigan. “It is a great feeling when you can use college athletics to help out kids. This is our future and these youngsters will be Pirate fans for many years to come.”
The Pirate mingled with the youngsters and handed out basketballs around the new playground as a special plaque was unveiled and the ribbon was cut to official open the playground. The area behind the school had been an old field before over $200,000 was raised to create the impressive play area for the youngsters.
“This is just tremendous for the kids,” said Angel Hughes, a parent and a member of the PTO. “I want to say thank you for creating this beautiful playground for our children.”
