Arlington and Grand Prairie receive Playful City USA Awards

The cities are among 67 American communities so designated by KaBOOM! child advocacy group.

The North Texas cities of Arlington and Grand Prairie are among 67 communities in the U.S. to have been designated as "Playful Cities" by KaBOOM!

[No, I did not just blow up.] KaBOOM! is a national non-profit organization that wants every child in America to have a place to play within walking distance of their home.

One other Texas city made this year's list of KaBOOM! towns: El Paso.

Says Arlington Mayor Robert Cluck in reference to a program begun in 2007, which he feels contributed to Arlington's designation as a Playful City: “Naturally Fun Neighborhoods promote playful and healthy lifestyles. I am thrilled to congratulate our Parks and Recreation Department on such an accomplishment. When we enrich the lives of our children, we enrich our future.”

Furthermore, according to KaBOOM! CEO and co-founder Darrell Hammond: "Arlington proved its commitment to play by launching creative initiatives designed to increase access to play spaces. It just goes to show you, where there’s a will, there’s a play.”

Nice play on words, Mr. Hammond.

posted by JM