Published: July 24, 2008 09:40 pm         

Energy Express Extravaganza

Children get day of summer sun

MOUNT HOPE — Children taking part in Energy Express activities at local schools throughout the area congregated at the Mount Hope High School football stadium Thursday to enjoy some sun-filled summer fun during Energy Express Extravaganza 2008.

Activities and food provided at the extravaganza were free, and the children were given tickets to give to station volunteers in order to complete their carnival-like experience.

Horse and pony rides, a disc jockey, jump ropes, hula hoops, bobbing for apples games, a watermelon contest, face painting, egg races and water balloon fights were all part of the event.

Food offered to the children included hot dogs, pizza, sodas, cookies and other assorted goodies.

When asked about the extravaganza, Marchelle Romage, an Energy Express mentor said, “The kids are having a great time.The community is loving the extravaganza and we are getting all sorts of compliments from the parents.”

Doug Cipoletti, an Energy Express site supervisor added, “It has been a wonderful turnout. The extravaganza has been tremendous for the community.”

The extravaganza was completely free of charge to the parents, children and other visitors because of community and organization donations, and Cipoletti hopes those donations continue in order to provide the extravaganza to the children for many years to come.

Energy Express is an organization that aids children with their reading skills and nutritional needs over the summer.

The group conducts events at local schools and parents leave their children in the safe and capable hands of mentors, volunteers and site supervisors.

For more information about Energy Express and its activities, call 304-293-3855 or go to the Energy Express Web site at http://www.energyexpress.wvu.edu.

— E-mail: amorici@register-herald.com