Summerbration celebrates season

  • Published
  • By Jennifer Hensley
  • Fuji Flyer contributor
Despite the threat of thunderstorms, Yokota East Elementary
School's Summerbration celebration was a success May 19.

With more than 150 guests in attendance, the carnival-type festival featured games, contests, food and a visit from the school's mascot, the giant Panda.

The event is hosted each spring by the Parent Teacher Organization and marks the closing of the school year. Proceeds from Summerbration raise much-needed funds for supplies like books, computers and other materials.

"This year's event was a huge success due in large part to the turnout we had," said Debbie Hernandez, PTO president. "The children had a great time, and after all, that's all that really matters."

Games included a sack race, bean bag toss, lollipop ring toss and an inflatable obstacle course. Children were also invited to have their faces painted, participate in a cake walk and play musical chairs.

Although most events were held indoors because of the threat of rain, the weather did nothing to dampen the participants' spirits.

"The games are so much fun that I don't even think about the weather!" said third-grader
Christine Haro.

In addition to community members who came out support of the school, the event also drew a record number of volunteers.

"We couldn't pull this off without the help of our extraordinary volunteers," said Terilyn
Stephens, PTO treasurer, who, together with her husband Tech. Sgt. Mark Stephens, Department of Defense Special Representative to Japan, coordinated the event.

"We always have the support of the school staff and teachers, but when the community reaches out and helps, means so much to our school and the children," she said.