| May 27, 2008 Accessible Playground in Coquitlam Recognized by the B.C. Legislative Assembly VICTORIA- Iain Black, MLA for Port Moody-Westwood, rose in the house on Tuesday to recognize the completion of the Coquitlam Kin Accessible Playground, which will open on June 19th 2008. “Carlie Collins came home from teaching one day, musing that one of her students was left out from one of the most important things that children do — play,” said Black. “The Kinette and Kinsmen members of Coquitlam formed a plan that involved the provincial and municipal government and then took on a mission of ensuring that the mentally and physically challenged are included in our community, in their community.” “The Coquitlam Kin Accessible Playground at Towne Centre in Coquitlam will do just that,” Black told the House. “Children who are physically or mentally challenged will have the use of playground facilities specifically designed to their specific needs. Children of all ages and abilities will have the opportunity to play together in this inclusive playground.” The equipment design of this safe and accessible playground will cater to everybody, even providing opportunities for parents in wheelchairs to play alongside their able-bodied kids. It will include high-back swings with straps, a circuit with high and low points, and two ramp accesses. Additional features include transfer points to help people using wheelchairs and a creative marine structure with a variety of strength and ability options. “The Kinette and Kinsmen members and the clubs have a long, long history of community service in Coquitlam, raising funds for everything from Eagle Ridge Hospital to Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Kinsmen Foundation itself, to name but a few,” said Black. “This is yet another permanent reminder of the importance of this organization and the tireless efforts that they show day after day.” Black ended his statement by asking the House to join him in saluting the Kinette and Kinsmen for their ingenuity, their tenacity, their compassion and their citizenship. Let's hope the kids have fun too. -30- | |
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