A few years ago, a certain editor of the Curry Coastal Pilot shouted at an insolent young boy for jumping violently on and trying to break a piece of equipment at Brookings KidTown at Azalea Park.

The editor felt bad about the angry reprimand – he could have handled it better –  but he didn’t feel bad about taking pride in protecting a resources that provides his child and thousands of others so much joy and happiness.

This editor is not alone.

Over the years, the city of Brookings and many volunteers have helped clean, repair and improve the popular play structure and surrounding facilities.

Most recently, members of the Wild Rivers Coast Leadership Class vowed to give KidTown a spring spruce up.

Project KidTown, sponsored by the Leadership Class of the Ford Family Foundation rural community enrichment program, will include new ramps, surfaces and new, improved sand for the sandbox areas.

Why all the fuss?

For children and adults, Brookings KidTown is a must stop. The focal point of the popular playground is a dozen or so linked wooden structures consisting of tall towers, bridges, tire staircases, swinging bars and several slides. Local donations and labor made it a reality. Several stand-alone swing sets and a nearby grassy area with picnic tables complete the facility.

KidTown is the sparkling emerald in the city’s crown jewel of a park. It’s certainly a public facility worth protecting.

All this editor asks is for people to treat it with respect – and support those who care for it – so that children of all ages will have a chance to enjoy it for years to come.

Thank you.

Scott Graves, editor of the Curry Coastal Pilot