Raining or not, here we come. On cue, youngsters tore through the blue ribbon to open the Caryville Cares Playground

WLAF’s Charlie Hutson shares his photo gallery HERE.

The fun has begun at the new Caryville Cares Playground.

CARYVILLE, TN (WLAF) – Friday’s grand opening of the much anticipated Caryville Cares All Inclusive Playground went off just like it was planned; with youngsters storming the gate and snapping the blue ribbon to go play. More rain than expected, a PA system on the fritz and other challenges did not deter years of planning, fundraising and completion of Campbell County’s first all-inclusive playground.

Folks from all walks of life comprised a very impressive turnout for this most special event. The ceremony, cut short by the continuing rain, lasted the better part of an hour.

Carie Ferra opened the ceremony with song as Brandon Johnson, president of the Caryville Cares Playground Organizing Committee, served as master of ceremonies.

Committee member Kaylee Queener welcomed everyone. Her welcome was followed by several speakers.

Amelia Longmire, an honorary team member, referenced her brother. “My brother has a disadvantage, and he now has a safe place to play,” said Longmire.

General Sessions Court Judge Bill Jones (above) told the crowd that though his teenage sons have out grown playgrounds, he hopes one day to see his grandchildren play here. “I’ll always remember this day,” said Jones.

“This is the first step to making this a kinder and more welcoming community,” said Brandon Johnson.

A certificate from the county was presented by Campbell County Mayor Jack Lynch (above) who expressed how he and the county commissioners were proud to be a small part of this. This is a community project with all of us working together, according to Mayor Lynch.

State Representative Dennis Powers (left) and Senator Ken Yager shared their mutual congratulations and appreciation for the new playground. Each read a proclamation. Both Powers and Yager were instrumental in securing grant dollars for the yet to be built playground restrooms.

Ally Winter spoke just before the blue ribbon was snapped. “She’s great,” Johnson exclaimed.

Soon Johnson (above) and others counted down from 10 for youngsters to break through the blue ribbon and head onto the grounds of the new playground. And they did.

A NOTE FROM THE GRAND ON CENTRAL: â€œThere is so much good going on in our community, and I want to share all this good with you every Monday here on WLAF in hopes that you will start your week in a grand way making each week a Grand Week,” said Olivia Lobtertini, owner of The Grand on Central.

Below, take a visit through The Grand on Central.

For bookings, email Olivia Lobertini ohlobertini03@gmail.com. Check on avails HERE. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 04/29/2024-6AM-PHOTOS COURTESY OF WLAF’S CHARLIE HUTSON-PAID AD)

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