Pleasant Corners Public School & Let Them Be Kids

GOLF TOURNAMENT + DINNER/RECEPTION FUNDRAISER

2010-06-11T15:11:00.001-07:00

We had a fabulous day – the weather was great, the golf was fun and the guest speakers were very moving. During dinner the silent auction was held & continued through the evening. After door prizes were handed out and we had a few laughs – we closed the auction. Total raised for the evening was a little over $7,600.00. This really brought up our total funds raised amount to almost our original goal – Wow! Thank you to everyone that helped to make this event such a success!

Our Build Day Slideshow

2010-06-09T05:51:00.001-07:00

Here it is finally - sorry it took so long, here is a slideshow of all the different events & areas of our Build Day...

A Video - Dedicated to Cpl Patrick Lormand

2010-06-02T20:41:00.000-07:00

Here is a video dedicated to the memory of fallen solider Corporal Patrick Lormand with some of the special moments from our build day (May 29, 2010)...

Watch for more picture/slideshows to follow over the next few days...

MISSING ITEMS FROM BUILD DAY

2010-05-31T12:49:00.000-07:00

We have a few items that were left at the school that do not belong to us. So if anyone is in this situation; has belongings misplaced or not returned, please feel free to contact me via return email & I will check to see if your item(s) is there.

OUR PLAYGROUND IS FABULOUS – I AM SO PROUD

2010-05-30T05:59:00.000-07:00

I believe that you get out of life what you put into it!" The work & effort of our volunteers to help out wherever they could during the day yesterday was heart warming. I am truly proud to have been part of such an event. Each one of you has left a permanent mark on that playground and the community is now a better place because of it. Here are a few photos for now but many more are to come, please watch the website over the next few days to see what posts of pictures/videos are added – it will take a bit of time to gather them from everyone’s camera that was going…Our committee wants to extend a huge Thank You to everyone that came; helping make dreams come true for the students, teachers, and our community families.

TOMORROW IS BUILD DAY-THE BIG DAY IS FINALLY HERE!

2010-05-28T20:20:00.000-07:00

Well the weather report looks great for tomorrow and it should be an amazing day! Below is some info for volunteers to help get ready for Build Day!

WAIVER FORM - Please bring the ‘un-signed’ form with you (emailed to you on Thursday) & get your wrist band

REGISTRATION TABLE - Please check in right when you first arrive before entering the school yard

LUNCH, WATER & SNACKS - Provided at no charge to all volunteers with a wrist band (coffee is available for the early morning volunteers)

PARKING - Available in the school parking lot – watch for our Auxiliary volunteers to help direct you

WHAT TO WEAR - Dress for activity, although none of the work is overly strenuous, you should be dressed for working around the “yard”. If you are painting, working on the playgrounds or any of the other types of work... you are going to get dirty and want to dress for it... Please no open toe shoes or sandals, better safe than sorry. Please bring work gloves if you have them!

SUNSCREEN - Don’t forget the sunscreen!

Our students and our community will soon have a brand new playground, thanks again to all of our volunteers that will help transform the playground into our vision!!

PCPS Alumni t-shirts that were ordered a few weeks ago – are available at the Registration table to be picked up. Don’t forget to change & show off your colors!

WAIVER

2010-05-28T17:51:00.001-07:00

As part of the Let Them Be Kids protocol, all volunteers working on Build Day, Saturday, May 29, must have proper identification indicating that they have signed a liability waiver and are volunteering on site to help transform our playground. So please bring your filled-in form that was emailed to you with the last volunteer update. Note that it is to be signed ‘on-site’ & witnessed by one of the people working the Registration table on the day of the build.

OUR SCHOOLYARD IS UN-RECOGNIZABLE!

2010-05-28T04:37:00.000-07:00

There was sooo much happening today that the teachers had to let the kids watch through classroom windows throughout the day. Some were lucky enough to be out & about see up close all that has been going on over the past few days. We have loads of pictures to show you of the changes to our schoolyard. You wouldn’t recognize it…

CHILDREN ON SITE AT BUILD DAY

2010-05-28T04:35:00.000-07:00

Just a friendly reminder… the school grounds and surrounding areas are going to be a really busy place on Build Day. So please note that there are NO babysitting services provided during the build. Although we do welcome extra helping hands for many of the tasks that will need to be done. So if you are bringing your children, please ensure that you are able to keep them close so you can keep an eye on them throughout the day. That there will be some planned kids activities in the school gym from 1:00-3:00pm. The time may be shorter if we finish our construction earlier and are ready to take pictures of the completed structures. So the once the ceremony & opening of the playground is ready to start the kids activities will end and the gym will be closed.

INTERVIEW WITH OUR COMMITTEE CHAIR

2010-05-27T12:56:00.001-07:00

Check out this link to see our video!!!

http://www.viddler.com/explore/ltbk/videos/145/

PLAY STRUCTURES HAVE ARRIVED & WORK BEGINS!!!

2010-05-27T12:54:00.000-07:00

Children were captivated by all the BIG equipment in operation outside their classroom windows. The areas are right now in the process of being prepped. Take a look at all that has already happened to our schoolyard today…

A GREAT DAY FOR A PICNIK

2010-05-27T04:07:00.000-07:00

The weather was fantastic & the lunches made by everyone were absolutely fabulous. We had a great time listening to the planned entertainment & the kids had fun playing & socializing. A huge thank you to everyone that made lunches (Anonymous / Hillview Women’s Institute / Trinity United Church / Mary Ferseson / Doreen Brannen ) & to those that came out to buy them; enjoying a picnic in the park afterwards. We raised exactly $1000. - after a kind person donated just enough to round it off! Thank you also to those that put together the event itself & the auctioneers & entertainers too (Phil Arbour, Zachary & Stacy Cruise / Koryne Fraser / Gary Carpenter / Olivia Barton & Family / Gerry Mitchell). Take a look to see how much fun everyone had...

WE ARE ALMOST THERE…

2010-05-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

We have only a few days left until our exciting event that will be taking place at PCPS on Saturday, May 29. We have over 230 people registered for Saturday - Wow!! Generous "in kind" donations (such as trucking, trees, topsoil etc.) have also been made, which brings our grand total to $66,221.....which means we're only a little bit short! We're hoping that those who have not yet donated will contribute - no matter how small...

May 29th BUILD DAY AGENDA

2010-05-26T02:59:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 29, 2010 8:00am - 3:00pm

8:00 am: Registration opens
8:00 am: kid timbers placed, gardening, outdoor classroom, pathway, painting (sheds, goal posts, fence,baseball diamonds), clean up forest edge, soccer fields, fencing corner, sandpit, signs, birdhouses, building structures
9:00 am: National Let Them Be Kids Webcast begins
www.ltbk.ca (tell your friends & relatives who can't be with us so they can watch the excitement too!)
9:00 am: Refreshments & snacks available
12:00 pm: Lunch
1:00 pm: Childrens' activities in the gym (for school-age children)
2:00 pm (approx): entire group photo on structures taken
2:20 pm: Everyone gathers on lawn near memorial site
2:30 - 3:00: Dedication & Opening Ceremony

*** It is essential for people to register ahead of time so we can assign tasks and determine food quantities. Waivers need to be printed out and brought with volunteers to be signed at the registration table that day. People are free to come for the dedication and playground opening as well and do not need to register for this.

Feel free to contact me for further information. There will be a live webcast of Build Day which will begin at 9:00am. The whole world can watch as we transform the playground at PCPS and create a beautiful space for everyone to enjoy!

Tara MacWhirter
PCPS Playground Enhancement Fundraising Committee Chair
(613)678-5584

WE FOUND OUR WEB BROADCASTER

2010-05-25T04:35:00.000-07:00

Ryan MacDuff an alumni of PCPS, has volunteered to be the May 29th web broadcaster. When we were told about needing a web broadcaster for on our build day, we were not sure of whom to ask. When Ryan was recommended to us, it was one of those slap the forehead moments – of course, what a perfect idea!

PICNIK SOCIAL at MAY SHow in VKH – Mon, May 24

2010-05-23T07:17:00.000-07:00

Come join the festivities & enjoy the sun by having a family picnic in the park. The entertainment starts at 11am & the box lunch auction starts at 11:30. Below is the page taken from the Review with all of the details…

Missing LOADS of items for Kindergarten Area…?

2010-05-22T05:35:00.000-07:00

If anyone has a lead on one of the following items – please contact the school office (613-678-2030) – everything is MUCH appreciated:

For the Gardens: 2 large pyramid or emerald cedars / 6 hostas / top soil / Landscape Paper

For the Raised Humming Bird Garden: 2 wood (or metal) climbing trellis –or- 20 feet of chicken wire + metal fasteners for the brick wall / Holly Hock seeds / Morning Glory seeds / Honeysuckle vines

Circular Tree Garden (10 ‘ diameter): Bone meal (root starter) / Tulip bulbs /Chrysanthemums (fall blooming) / Annuals to get colour right away / 20 “ diameter log rounds 14+16 “in height (natural seating) / Sand paper (electric sanders)

- 2 Large Planters for the front of garden shed / 2 Alberta spruce (dwarf) / Petunias (1 tray) / 30 cedar logs 5: diameter, 12 ‘ long or longer / Chain saw ( to cut these logs into pieces) / 1 doz 8 foot spruce strapping / 1.5 pounds 2” wood screws

Fence Post Plantings: Sunflower seeds / Black plastic edging / (12 posts)

Other Tools: 5 gallon pails for water / Large 4” paint brushes (1 doz) / Small 2” paint brushes (1 doz) / Straight rakes / Fan rakes / Shovels / Wheel barrows

LA CITE GOLF DINNER/RECEPTION - SILENT AUCTION ITEMS - Tonight May 21

2010-05-21T03:36:00.000-07:00

Wow - local businesses have been very generous to us. Take a look at some of the items available on our silent auction for tonight...?

Silent Auction all day & evening!

Golf - La Cité Shotgun starts @ 1:00pm ($95. cart incl + BBQ lunch)
Dinner @ 6:00pm (12 oz Steak)

Double Stranded Fresh Water Pearl Necklace & Matching Bracelet
2 Tickets to NYC
BMX Bike – Intersport (Hawkesbury)
Signed Montreal Canadians Jersey #57 (Benoit Pouliot)
Montreal Canadians Sweatshirt
$250 Synergy Spa Package
One Night Stay Les Suites Hotel - Ottawa
One Night Stay Best Western L'Heritage - Hawkesbury
Gift Certificate $200 - Josephs
Magellan RoadMate 1440 GPS
Green Fees – Chateau Montebello / Hawkesbury Golf Club / Glengarry Golf
Several Framed Oil Paintings
RYOBI Mega Drilling & Driving Kit
Framed Prints
Irwin Tool Bag - Signed Stiletto Titanium 16 Hammer
Diamond Saw Tile Cutter
Sock Puppet Prints
NHL Game Pucks
Gift Certificates - Canadian Tire / Green Tech (John Deere) / Stephanie’s Restaurant

OUR MASTER PLAN

2010-05-20T03:02:00.001-07:00

Below is a drawing that shows what & where everything is going. If you wish to see it a bit larger - just click on the image. We hope this gives you a good visualization. Please note that it is a "draft" at this point in time...

COMMUNITY PICNIK & BOX LUNCH SOCIAL

2010-05-19T03:02:00.000-07:00

WHEN: Monday May 24th, 11 am - 4 pm

WHERE: Mill Street Park, VKH 2 blocks south of Main -at the community arena
Box Lunch Auction: Starts @ 11:30 am
*Proceeds go towards the PCPS Playground Enhancement Project

Songs & Dance! - Music & Entertainment!

Entertainment Starts at 11:00 am
Koryne Fraser - Fiddler
Gary Carpenter - Singer
Zachary & Stacy Cruise - Guitar and Vocals
Olivia Barton & Family - Family music
Gerry Mitchell - Singer/songwriter
*In case of bad weather, it will be held indoors

Are you able to provide us with a boxed lunch (or basket) for the auction…? For ? about lunch boxes contact Brenda Bettridge via the school (613-678-2030)

Criteria for the lunches:
- Pleasant appearance/presentation (usually in a box or basket, etc)
- Nicely wrapped and/or decorated
- Usually for 2, 4, or 6 people (Please indicate how many people the lunch will feed)
- Included should be a description of the contents so the auctioneer can entice folks into buying it

Even if you are not able to make a lunch, please come out and support the auction/event

ROAD SIGNS

2010-05-18T04:01:00.001-07:00

Have you seen the new road signs outside along the Hwy #34 beside our school? They look absolutely fantastic. I have several times over the past week seen cars slowing down to read the messages on them. Take a look at all of the activity while they went up…

Golf Tournament + Dinner - May 21, 2010

2010-05-16T17:31:00.000-07:00

Date: Friday, May 21st, 2010

Place: La Cité Golf Club, Hawkesbury, ON

Times: BBQ Lunch starts @ 12:00 noon
Shotgun Start (Best Ball) @ 1:00 pm
12oz Steak Dinner/Reception @ 6:00 pm

Tickets: $95./person = BBQ Lunch + Golf (cart incl.) + Dinner/Reception
$50./person = Dinner/Reception only

Silent Auction ALL Day / Guest Speakers at Reception

Tickets + Information: Mike (613-675-1426) or

via email (May21golftournament@gmail.com)

* All proceeds benefit the Pleasant Corners Public School Playground Enhancement Project dedicated to the memory of fallen soldier Cpl. Patrick Lormand

WE FOUND OUR WEB BROADCASTER

2010-05-14T19:40:00.000-07:00

CREATIVE PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY

2010-05-14T19:39:00.001-07:00

We had loads of fun at our paper craft evening last weekend. A huge thank you to those that provided items to make it successful (Buck-a-Roos / Chanels & Crystals / Nika Designs / Shelley Mullin / Sweet Cheese Creations / The Bath Lady). We have such talented people within our community - take a look at what was created…

A FANTASTIC OPEN HOUSE AT PCPS

2010-05-14T03:47:00.000-07:00

It was fabulous to see so many families out supporting the school, in many different ways! The kids did a great job, they've worked so hard! Great job to everyone who organized and set up, I heard tonnes of great comments!!

There was a lot happening at the school with loads to see & do. Families walked the hallways & checked out student artwork everywhere! The book fair was held in one area of the school while the bake sale & silent auction went on in another area. The weather held up nicely for the plant sale set up outside at the front of the school! We made well over $1700. – A job well done by all!

EARTH DAY AT PCPS

2010-05-13T04:05:00.001-07:00

Just to give you an idea of the creative minds at our school, here are a few pictures of our students along with the art instructor…

Celtic Pub Night A HUGE Sucess!

2010-05-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

Wow – you really know that your fundraising evening is a success – when people have to wait to get in because you are at capacity! The bands were simply great / the service & atmosphere of the Rumble Inn in St, Eugene was fantastic / the evening was a blend of dancing, prizes & catching up with friends - a fabulous time was had by everyone! We raised $2275. while enjoying an evening out with friends & family! Take a look…

WE FOUND OUR ‘OFFICIAL’ PHOTOGRAPHER

2010-05-09T08:08:00.000-07:00

Nik Schnell, a professional photographer and parent at PCPS, has volunteered to be the May 29th photographer.

For more information about Nik please visit his website.
613 674 2987 / mailto: info@nikschnell.com / http://www.nikschnell.com/

CELTIC PUB NIGHT – May 8

2010-05-07T19:33:00.000-07:00

The Rumble Inn located in St. Eugene is having a fundraiser on our behalf for an evening of fun & music! Come listen to the band(s) play (Paddy Kelly, Koryne Fraser, Nelson MacPherson Celtic Flare, The Caddells).

Enjoy an evening out with friends while knowing that your entrance fee has been given to help our project (starts at 8:00pm). The owners are allowing us to collect the door entrance fee to our project.

OPEN HOUSE & ARTS NIGHT AT PCPS - May 12

2010-05-06T03:17:00.000-07:00

We are opening our doors for a fun filled evening. Come and see the students artwork & listen to them play during a show in the gym. We are planning to have a table with plants for sale along with some silent auction items as well. Refreshements will also be available - (starts @ 6pm).

We are looking for donations of items for the plant table & for more silent auctions items
Anything to donate that we can use, please contact the school office (613-678-2030)

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

2010-05-04T17:27:00.000-07:00

We are looking to enhance our playground area with greenery and more trees for shade. Please review the list below of the materials we need for planting our trees & shrubs. So if anyone has a lead on one of the following items – please contact the school office (613-678-2030) – everything is MUCH appreciated:

Requirements - Trees & Shrubs
2 Wheel Barrels
Shovels + Pocket knife
4, 18 L plastic pails (to water plant material at planting time)
24 inch long plastic tile drainage pipe (tree protection at ground level) *Quantity TBA (based on # of trees)
Metal support stakes (support trees in ground # for establishment purposes) *Quantity TBA (based on # of trees)
Sledge hammer to hammer in metal support stakes
Old hose cut in 16 inch lengths (for tie down of trees)

CELTIC PUB NIGHT – May 8

2010-05-03T06:04:00.000-07:00

The Rumble Inn located in St. Eugene is having a fundraiser on our behalf for an evening of fun & music! Come listen to the band(s) play (starts at 8:00pm) and enjoy an evening out with friends while knowing that your entrance fee has been given to help our project! The owners are allowing us to collect the door entrance fee to our project.

THE GIVING TREE

2010-04-29T04:31:00.000-07:00

When you walk into the school office your eyes wander farther down to the end of the hallway and this is what you see…

The giving tree was designed by our Principal Roxanne MacDonnell and some of our grade 8 students helped her decorate our wall. As you get closer you will see that the leaves of the tree are made out of many cut out paper hands with names on them. Each name represents a donor to our Playground Enhancement Project and tells the story to all that pass by during the day.

SCRAPIN FOR OUR SCHOOL – May 1st

2010-04-27T13:15:00.000-07:00

SCRAPIN FOR OUR SCHOOL Fundraiser Night Out – May 1st
An evening of paper crafts/scrapbooking/making cards while fundraising for our school…
Door prizes & silent auction items!
Light refreshments will also be made available

Date + Time: Saturday, May 1st, 6:30 – 10:30pm
Where: VHK Arena (upstairs)
Bring: Your adhesive, scissors & a smile
Cost: $20.00/per person
Contact/Info: Sue Allen Jaring (613-678-6178) / Jennifer Inskip (613-675-1426)

BUY YOUR TSHIRT BEFORE APRIL 30 TO WEAR ON BUILD DAY (MAY 29)

2010-04-26T05:05:00.000-07:00

For those who are ALUMNI: Here is a challenge: Which team is the "ultimate supporter" ?? - Just to let you know.....JOCKS are currently in the lead!!!!

For those of you who are NOT alumni – PLEASE support the playground project by buying a t-shirt anyways to wear on Build Day (May 29, 2010)!

Choose from any of the intramural teams OR choose our grey shirt with green letters of PCPS on the front (“word” alumni is not available on these shirts)

Adult sizes available only: S, M, L, XL, XXL (+ $2.), XXXL (+ $3.)

Cost: $ 15.00 per shirt / Note that all orders MUST be received & paid by April 30

Contact/visit the school (613-678-2030)

Red Devils (red shirt)

Jocks (green shirt)

Streakers (yellow shirt)

Bombers (black shirt)

Blue Knights (blue shirt)

49ers (orange)

PCPS (grey shirt green letters)

We Did Well Bagging Groceries at MIKE DEAN’s

2010-04-25T05:28:00.000-07:00

Wow – we made over $670. while bagging groceries! What an amazing Saturday with parent & student volunteers. Thanks to everyone for coming out to support our project.

WE WILL BE BAGGING GROCERIES AT MIKE DEAN’s-VKH (Sat, April 24)

2010-04-23T05:33:00.000-07:00

Sonya Rickerd has volunteered herself and a friend/parent Danielle Saufriol to help out with bagging groceries to help raise funds for our playground project. They have offered to help for the full day and are very enthusiastic to do so. Please say hello and thank you for all of us while picking up your food stuff at our local grocer.

Thank You Rideau Vista PS (Westport, ON)

2010-04-21T20:03:00.000-07:00

Rideau Vista Public School in Westport, ON was a Let Them Be Kids award recipient in 2009. Last Friday, the school made a $237.00 donation to PCPS for its Playground Enhancement Project! The school said since they had also received the grant, they wanted to “pay it forward”, so through bake sales, raffles, etc. the little school made this generous gift and they are also donating to 3 other area schools as well.

VOLUNTEERS-COMMUNITY MAYORS ON BOARD!

2010-04-21T06:28:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to share with you that we have recently signed up Rob Kirby (East Hawkesbury Mayor) & Jeanne Charlebois (Hawkesbury Mayor) as volunteers for Build Day on May 29, 2010.

Have you signed up yet to volunteer for our Build Day? We are currently assigning tasks to those that have already registered, but we still need helpers for many different areas! Please encourage family, friends & fellow co-workers to register so they can have a better choice of what activity to participate in.

On behalf of the committee, we thank you for your willingness to participate.

BUY YOUR TSHIRT BEFORE APRIL 30 TO WEAR ON BUILD DAY (MAY 29)

2010-04-19T12:56:00.000-07:00

For those who are ALUMNI: Here is a challenge: Which team is the "ultimate supporter" ?! JOCKS are currently in the lead!!!!

For those of you who are not alumni – PLEASE support the playground project by buying a t-shirt anyways to wear on Build Day (May 29, 2010)! Choose any intramural team or our grey shirt with green letters 'PCPS' on the front ('word' alumni not available on these shirts)

Adult sizes available only: S, M, L, XL, XXL (+ $2.), XXXL (+ $3.)
Cost: $ 15.00 per shirt Red Devils (red shirt)

Note that all orders MUST be received/paid by April 30 - Contact/visit the school (613-678-2030)

Jocks (green shirt)
Streakers (yellow shirt)
Bombers (black shirt)
Blue Knights (blue shirt)
49ers (orange)
PCPS (grey shirt green letters)

VISIT US AT THE VKH FARMERS MARKET (April 17)

2010-04-16T11:36:00.001-07:00

Pleasant Corners Public School (PCPS) will be out and about at the Saturday, VKH farmers market too! We will have volunteer sign up sheets & order forms for Alumni t-shirts, along with information on how to donate in memory of a loved one. Hope to see you there...

Our “Fallen Hero”

2010-04-15T18:30:00.001-07:00

One of the requirements of the Let Them Be Kids award is that the playground be dedicated to the memory of a fallen hero.

The PCPS Playground Enhancement Committee - based on recommendations from the community - has announced that on May 29th, a massive playground will be built at Pleasant Corners Public School in honour of local soldier, Cpl. Patrick Lormand of Chute-a- Blondeau , Ontario , who was killed in action in Afghanistan last September.

The new playground honouring Cpl. Lormand will include numerous play structures, an outdoor classroom, a shade structure(s), gardens with paths, trees and shrubs planted by the community.

By dedicating the playground to a local fallen soldier, Corporal Patrick Lormand, a person who made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan; the area will also serve as a reminder to all who that enjoy it, that freedom does sometimes come at a price. It will also ensure that his life & sacrifice will be honoured & remembered for generations to come.

OUR PILATES FUNDRAISER CLASS

2010-04-14T19:46:00.000-07:00

A big thank you to Susan Woodard (Stott Certified Instructor), who donated her time to provide a Pilates class for our community. Many came to try Pilates for the first time (including some of our committee members)! Everyone’s generous donation went to the children of our community. The evening’s class made our project a donation of $1080. Thanks everyone for coming out!

PILATES FUNDRAISER THIS WEDNESDAY (April 14)

2010-04-13T05:28:00.000-07:00

Just a quick reminder…
Susan Woodard (Stott Certified Instructor) has donated her time to provide a Pilates class for the community. Come & workout & give a donation for the children of our community at the same time. Hope to see you there...
Date: Wednesday April 14th
Time: 7:30 pm SHARP (one hour)
Where: Pleasant Corners Public School (Gym)
Bring: A mat if you have one, workout clothes & a bottle of water
Cost: Your Generous Donation

FUN AT THE CHAMPLAIN COMMUNITY FAIR

2010-04-12T04:39:00.001-07:00

We had a great weekend with lots of visiting with friends & family & our fellow community members. We signed up another 15 volunteers bringing our total to over 100 now! We made approx. $500 in donations this weekend, and a lot more are thinking about what to give! Congratulations to Don Kinnear as the winner of the gift card from Theriault Electronique! It was a great turn out – the arena sure looked different! It was fun chatting & socializing with everyone!

VOLUNTEERS & DONATIONS ARRIVING EVERY DAY!

2010-04-09T04:50:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you know that we have been receiving a steady stream of volunteers signing up and generous donations from our school family & community members.

Our new total as of April 8th = $25,405
Number of volunteers signed up to date = 92

On behalf of the committee - just wanted to extend a huge thank you to everyone for their generous support!

VISIT US AT THE CHAMPLAIN COMMUNITY FAIR (April 10 + 11)

2010-04-05T05:12:00.000-07:00

Pleasant Corners Public School (PCPS) is sharing a table with our local high school Vankleek Collegiate Institute (VCI). Stop by to say hello and meet some of our committee members face-to-face. We will have loads of pictures showcasing our project along with volunteer sign up sheets & order forms for Alumni t-shirts.

LOCAL ARTIST ALLISON BARTON TO CREATE “ORIGINAL” DRAWING

2010-04-01T12:48:00.001-07:00

Allison Barton is one of our area local artists. She has agreed to create a special “playground drawing". It will commemorate our vision of community & volunteers coming together to enhance our playground on one special “Build Day”. The one time original will be raffled and a limited number of copies will be given to thank some of our sponsors. I can't wait to see it...

Committee Meets Ian Hill of Let Them Be Kids

2010-03-31T06:12:00.000-07:00

What an absolutely great meeting, being able to discuss our goals & plans for PCPS and our community with Ian, face-to-face! It was very interesting to observe how Ian speaks to each person and each conversation was different. Thanks Ian, for all the great support, encouragement, guidance and inspiration!

STORYTIME/MOVIE NIGHT A HUGE SUCCESS

2010-03-27T05:42:00.000-07:00

Just thrilled about the turnout last night at the gym of PCPS! With the support of all who came, we raised over $700!, this is being matched by Let Them Be Kids; which means we actually raised $1400.!!! There were many happy faces during the story as read by Canadian acclaimed actress (and PCPS alumni) Teri Rata Loretto. The little ones I saw were quite attentive and so were many of the adults too.

Door prizes were handed out while the story time crowd waited for newcomers arriving to see the movie (Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs). Thank you to VideoZone in Hawkesbury for donating the movie rental along with door prizes. The lights were turned out completely for 1 minute to commemorate Earth Hour (March 27). A big THANK YOU to everyone else for their donations: MacDonalds (Hawkesbury), La Collisee (Kirkland), Bob T’s Tack Shop, Solutions (Ottawa) and Mike Sutter & Beth MacLeod. Due to everyone’s help the evening was a great success.

DONATE A TREE, SHRUB OR PERENNIAL IN MEMORY OF A LOVED ONE

2010-03-26T05:32:00.000-07:00

Would you like to make a special donation in memory of a loved one...?

By having a tree, shrub or perennial planted in their honour as part of our playground, a beautiful way to remember someone…

For more details please call the school office (613-678-2030).

A NIGHT OUT WITH THE KIDS - March 26, 2010

2010-03-22T16:18:00.000-07:00

STORYTIME Starts @ 6:30pm / MOVIE Starts @ 7:30pm

Just a little reminder to everyone about the reading of the classic Dr. Seuss story ‘The Lorax’, to be read by Canadian acclaimed actress & PCPS alumni ,Teri Rata Loretto - to start at 6:30pm. Afterwards a showing of the movie ‘Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” is to start at 7:30pm.

Note that entrance fee is $5.00/per person (all ages).

All proceeds to benefit our Playground Enhancement Project!

CHALLENGE TO ALL PCPS GRADS

2010-03-18T17:31:00.000-07:00

Which graduating year can meet the challenge of supporting the PCPS Playground Enhancement Project?

The committee has been awarded the Let Them Be Kids grant where all funds raised by the community will be matched by the grant! $20 becomes $40, $50 immediately becomes $100!

Send your donations to PCPS, 4099 Hwy 34, Vankleek Hill, ON K0B 1R0. The amounts will be tracked and posted here on our website & also on the Facebook ‘VCI Alumni’ page so you can see if your alumni year is the most ambitious in the donation department!

Help make this dream a reality for PCPS. Your generous support is most appreciated by past, present and future PCPS families!

PLANS FOR OUR NATIVE GARDEN

2010-03-13T06:02:00.000-08:00

A great thanks to Mrs. Therese Dunsmore, a former French teacher at PCPS whom has provided us with a preliminary drawing of the garden she has designed for us. We are trying to create a garden with as many native perennials as possible as they are hardier for our environment.

This is a good opportunity to mention what items are needed and how much…

HOW CAN I DONATE OTHER THAN MONETARILY?
Dimensions of the garden - 60 square metres
How much topsoil is required - 18 cubic metres
How much mulch is required - 4 cubic metres
How much edging is required - 60 metres
Approx time for use of backhoe to prepare the plot – 2/3 hours

FOR SALE - PCPS Intramural Team Shirts

2010-03-09T13:31:00.000-08:00

Come celebrate and help support the PCPS Playground Enhancement Project and purchase a memento of the school at the same time!

Intramural Team name silk-screened across front of T-shirts & the choice of adding the word “Alumni” on the sleeve: Red Devils (red shirt) / Jocks (green shirt) / Streakers (yellow shirt) / Bombers (black shirt) / Blue Knights (blue shirt) / 49ers (orange) / *PCPS (grey shirt green letters). *For those that didn’t attend PCPS – a T-shirt without a team name and only the word ‘PCPS’ across the front is also available (Note that “Alumni” is not available on the sleeve of this shirt).

100% cotton (colors as listed above)
Adult sizes available only: S, M, L, XL, XXL (+ $2.), XXXL (+ $3.)
Cost: $ 15.00/shirt *Please make cheque payable to Pleasant Corners Public School

Place your orders at the PCPS school office BEFORE April 30-2010!!
* Note that full payment is required at time T-shirt order is placed.

When t-shirts arrive, a posting will made here on our website plus a notice at the school will be put up at the school office.

T-shirts will be available for pick-up at the school office (613-678-2030) up to and including on Build Day (May 29/2010).

Teri Rata Loretto to Read the Dr. Seuss Classic “The Lorax” at PCPS Fundraiser on March 26

2010-03-05T04:46:00.000-08:00

Teri is an award winning actor & director with an extensive training & performance resume. She has taught at public schools in the Ottawa region, Orleans Young Players and Theatre School, & at Algonquin College, & the Universities of Ottawa & Carleton. She is also a professional singer, voice actor plus the stand in weather person for CBC Ottawa Television and Radio.

You may have seen her in several films over the last few years. Her first role was with The Prescott Players as Gloria in Wait Until Dark when she was 12! Teri attributes much of her success to the fabulous teachers she had at PCPS along with the people of her hometown region. She thinks play is VERY important to developing well rounded young people!

Story Time & Movie Night Fundraiser at PCPS

2010-03-03T13:48:00.000-08:00

Date: Friday, March 26
Story Time Start (geared to the little ones): 6:30 - 7:15 pm
Movie Start (fun for all ages): 7:30 pm
Where: Pleasant Corners Public School Gym
Cost: $5.00 (all ages) – Includes Story + Movie + Snack + Drink
- All proceeds to benefit the PCPS Playground Enhancement Project!
- Watch for details about the movie & story titles to be advised as we get closer to the event...

Needs Requirements

2010-02-28T05:42:00.001-08:00

In a few weeks we will let you know what tools and equipment we are going to require for the build day. Hopefully those with quality cordless drills, shovels, rakes, etc. will be able to assist us by bringing them to the build. When you sign up as a volunteer – please also indicate this information.

F.A.Q.'s (Frequently Asked Questions)

2010-02-21T16:09:00.000-08:00

- Wavier and release form? This form will be emailed to you prior to the event, please fill it out and bring it with you on that Saturday (Build day). This will speed up the registration process and will help to get you working and making a difference quicker!
- What to wear? Dress for activity, although none of the work is overly strenuous, you should be dressed for working around the “yard”. If you are painting, working on the playgrounds or any of the other types of work... you are going to get dirty and want to dress for it...please no open toe shoes or sandals, better safe than sorry. Please bring work gloves if you have them!
- What is the schedule for the day? You will receive a schedule for the day one week prior to the event and it will be posted on the web site at that time as well
- What if it rains? The project goes rain or shine...only in a case of extreme weather would we postpone...in the unlikely event that happened we would go the following Saturday
- When do we eat? Coffee will be served in the morning and bottled water will be available throughout the whole day. Lunch will be served from 11:30 am till 1 pm.
- Do we still need more help? We need all the help we can get. Please come with your teams from work and wear a shirt identified with the logo (if available) or anything that represents your group...that is part of the fun!

Project Goals/Desired Outcomes

2010-02-17T16:05:00.001-08:00

The Playground Enhancement Committee has determined the following Project Goals/Desired Outcomes:
- Help bring families and the school together by working on a common goal thus creating more volunteers in the school community
- Venue for families who are new to the area to become more involved in their children’s future and meet new friends
- Lead by example and demonstrate to our students, our families and larger community members, that by working together to achieve a common goal, anything is possible and dreams can become reality
- Provide an outdoor classroom setting for students and our community to learn more environmentally sound practices.

Bonspiel Photos & Video

2010-02-11T06:19:00.000-08:00

Sorry I took so long to put these up... I finally organized the photos received from different people that had their cameras out that day. Take a look and see what a great day we all had> You can also listen to this fun cheer that a couple of kids on one of the teams came up with for our fundraising bonspiel. Talk about team spirit!!

Our Playground Designs Have Arrived

2010-02-08T17:33:00.000-08:00

We have received the playground plans for the kindergarten & senior area along with the shade structure/outdoor classroom from Belair. They look absolutely fabulous – take a look and see what you think of our wish list...

Community Help Needed to Name “Fallen Hero"

2010-02-04T03:45:00.000-08:00

One of the criteria for the LTBK's award is that the playground be dedicated to a fallen hero(s), or to someone who has sacrificed to make life better for us. We are asking our community to help us to Name a “Fallen Hero". Suggestions for names in regard to this dedication are invited by everyone. Please forward them to the school office at 613-678-2030.

Bonspiel Fundraising Total

2010-02-01T08:04:00.000-08:00

Wow – what a great day! Our bonspiel was a tremendous success with a fundraising total of $1821.95 for the day!! The energy and support in the room was fabulous! 20 teams came out, played, ate and had a great time. Many community members along with family & friends came for lunch & spent part of their day cheering & enjoyed other non-curling activities as well.

Check back soon to view pictures & videos of the fun day...

“Winter Rocks” Fundraising Bonspiel - A Huge Success!

2010-01-30T18:03:00.000-08:00

THANK YOU to those that made desserts, provided door prizes, and gave us their valuable time. Everyone had a wonderful day: from 1st time curlers to the regulars; spectators and those that dropped in for lunch; little ones played games while teens watched over them; and everyone got a chance to socialize. Check back in a few days for more details along with pictures & videos…

We have 20 Bonspiel Teams!

2010-01-26T04:51:00.000-08:00

We have teams from staff at PCPS, plus student teams also. Several teams are made up of various family members of all ages. This is what a family day is all about!

Come in to warm up - Join us for lunch – Cheer the teams on – Come hear our big announcement!

Our Original Playground “Master” Plan

2010-01-22T14:14:00.000-08:00

Our vision includes the addition of an outdoor classroom, gardens with paths, a shade structure, enrichment of existing play structures, composting, and planting of trees and shrubs. In early 2009 Stantec was hired to create a master plan for our vision - take a look. We are now anxiously awaiting a detailed plan for the play structures…coming soon…

Project Description\Purpose

2010-01-17T13:58:00.000-08:00

I thought that some of you may be interested to read about what the committee had determined this to be...

Our vision is to enrich and naturalize the existing playground at Pleasant Corners Public School, which in turn will help foster friendships, learning, and physical activity for our students and our community. The involvement of our parents, staff and community will bring to life old and new activities such as; after school programs, sports, social and educational programs. These benefits will reach far outside our school families to include the whole community.

We Already Started - Tile Drainage

2010-01-13T09:17:00.000-08:00

We have already started to make some progress to the playground. just before the winter (end of Nov2009) we had some tile drainage done. Here are a few pics from that day.

Watch to see new postings and updates as we progress …

Thank You to All Sponsors & Donations in 2009

2010-01-10T06:07:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to extend a big THANK YOU to all of our sponsors and to everyone that donated to our fund throughout last year. They are listed on our website (see sidebar). My sincere apology if we missed anyone (feel free to let me know).

Sat, Jan 30, 2010 Family Fun Fundraising Bonspiel

2010-01-07T18:58:00.000-08:00

PCPS School Council invites all families to participate in our first
ever "Winter Rocks" Curling Bonspiel to be held:
Saturday, January 30, 2010 from 9 to 4
at the Vankleek Hill Curling Club
Registration: $40.00 per team/lunch included

Contact Karen Cunning (613 678 3986) or the school office (613 678 2030) to enter your team, to offer a donation of food, or to volunteer your assistance before Mon., January 25.

All ages & 1st time curlers most welcome; & spectators too!
Please come out and support this great family event.
Other activities are also planned, plus lunch is available to spectators also for a minimal fee.
It’s all about the fun!

Some Background of the Playground Enhancement Project

2010-01-06T17:13:00.000-08:00

The Playground Enhancement Project at PCPS held its first major event in March 2009 when the fundraising committee organized a very successful community event called “Spring Fling” at the VanKleek Hill Community Centre. The evening consisted of numerous activities, including both a silent and live auction, a dance with live bands, food galore, and much merriment. Its success would not have been possible without the extraordinary contributions of the teaching and administrative staff of PCPS and the outpouring of community involvement in support of the project.

…To date we have already raised over $ 15,000.00

Our Committee Members

2010-01-02T06:11:00.000-08:00

For the first posting of this New Year I would like to introduce the members of our Playground Committe. In the top row, left to right is Shelley Mullin, Santa, Mary McCrimmon‑Leduc, Karen Cunning, and Susan Jaring. Bottom row, left to right is Tammy Allen, Chair - Tara MacWhirter and Jennifer Inskip. Inserted picture is Debbie Lavoie. Absent is Brenda Bettridge.

Dotmacracy – Let the Kids Decide

2009-12-31T15:54:00.000-08:00

During the last few days of December, all of the students from PCPS were able to make choices of their own individual preferences for what THEY wanted the most in THEIR playground. Each child was given the opportunity to look over pictures of various play structures available and to indicate their top three (3) choices. Attached are pictures of their choices.

The numbers were tallied up by our Chair – Tara MacWhirter and the totals were listed and sent out. We are now anxiously awaiting a plan based on the choices of the students. I can't wait to see what the plan will look like - can you?

All the best to every one for the new year & happy playing and building in 2010…

An Empty Playground…

2009-12-29T05:06:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures to show what is currently at the school (not much) that may explain why we feel we really need to improve the current playground situation. You can see that there is plenty of open space, but not much for the kids to do. I can't wait to see what we are able to do with this empty canvas...

Santa Gives PCPS a "Helping Hands Award"

2009-12-26T13:00:00.000-08:00

Wednesday afternoon (Dec 16th) the announcement was made when Santa gave a present to Pleasant Corners Public School at the end of their Christmas concert celebrations. Judging by the reaction and noise level - it was greeted with much appreciation by the students, staff and parents! It was touching to realize that there were a few damp eyes in the gym that afternoon. Take a look at the video and see the reaction for yourself:

Watch for more information as things develop…

LTBK Coming to PCPS in 2010

2009-12-17T15:13:00.000-08:00

Check out this video to see some examples of what the organization of Let Them Be Kids can help us bring to our community...

PCPS Awarded!!!

2009-12-15T06:37:00.000-08:00

Pleasant Corners Public School in Vankleek Hill, Ontario has been awarded a "Let Them Be Kids Helping Hands" award, that will assist in the building of a much needed playground at the school. It will also help with the overall improvement of the school yard as a whole. Stay tuned for more exciting details coming soon!