This summer, 85 children ages 3-6 have been enjoying crafts, music, and games in Perkins Park in Newark. Under the supervision of Kathy Eckert and her staff of six, the Alex Eligh Community Center Tots Program has featured 'Songs and Rhymes in the Summertime.'

On August 10, Totfest 2001 featured a morning of entertainment and food for 60-plus children and their parents. As part of the celebration $72.31 in pennies was brought in and used to make the crafts and play the activities with the money going for a community service.

In years past the children have helped the Ronald McDonald House, Children's Miracle Network, Make a Wish Foundation, and Food Closet.

This year the money purchased a flowering crabapple tree for Perkins Park. A tree planting ceremony, helped by a village crew, had all the children adding dirt to the hole for their new 'TOTS Tree.' Planted at the edge of Perkins School land, the children will be able to see the pink blossoms next spring from their classroom windows.

The Perkins Park Beautification Committee appreciates the help of the children.

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