By Lisa Carolin
Hundreds of people, most of them families with children, filled the playground at South Meadows Elementary School Friday evening, June 3, to enjoy the annual Ice Cream Social.
“Nothing says summer like a simple Ice Cream Social,” said Denise Cugliari, chair of the PTO. “It is so much fun to gather all the students, incoming preschoolers, their families, and the teachers together in a casual and playful way.”
The 80-degree sunshine was ideal for ice cream, and the choices included fudge bars, vanilla bars, ice cream sandwiches and Bomb Pop Juniors.
“The Ice Cream Social has been around for many, many years,” said South Meadows Principal Stacie Battaglia. “it began as the ‘Finale Festival’ to celebrate the end of the year for elementary students and families.”
There were games to choose from like pitch a penny, pick a pop, and bean bag toss, as well as a jump house and all the usual draws on the school’s playground.
The Chelsea Kiwanis Club ran a food stand with popcorn, pretzels and hot dogs for sale.
“We do this every year, and all proceeds go to the PTO,” said Bob Milbrodt, treasurer of the Chelsea Kiwanis Club. “Anytime there’s an activity that involves kids, we like to participate.”
Both kids and adults visited and climbed inside the fire truck on loan from the Chelsea Are Fire Authority.
“We want people to see what we’re about, and this helps educate kids about fire prevention,” explained Captain Chris Smyth.
The last day is Wednesday, June 15.