A Grand Opening - Inglewood Celebrates Nellie Breen's Park

By: Photo essay submitted by Miles Krowicki

Asked to write about the Grand Opening of the new Nellie Breen Park (May 30, 2009), I chose instead to let these photos tell the story. A more celebratory, beautifully sun-drenched day I have not experienced in my 15 years living in Inglewood. Thank you.

Two Donor Walls, designed and built by Tornado Technologies, water-jetted from steel and aluminum greet visitors as they enter the park.

Betty Hamilton, last remaining child of Nellie Breen, wore her mother's original dress to thank everyone personally for their generosity.

Corinne Dickson, tireless committee organizer, receives flowers for her artistic inspiration in bringing the park to life.

Park sign on the bikepath.

Three Politicians - L to R: Wayne Cao (MLA), Gian-Carlo Carra (ICA President), Joe Ceci (Alderman).

Kids have the final say. "This park is AWE-some!" proclaims Olivia O'Brien, with friends on the Biggo Swing.

Among the treats on hand were cotton candy, snow-cones, popcorn, face-painting, circus performance, balloons, and live music galore.

The gorgeously restored gazebo shelters a quartet of equally luscious voices - Magnolia Buckskin.

Over the course of Saturday it was estimated nearly 1,000 people from all parts of the city made their way through the park. Festivities continued in the nearby Green Room until the wee hours of the morning.

Why did the musician cross the park? To swing! The Midnight Blue Big Band.

Not your typical watered-down fun - Inglewood's park boasts state-of-the-art equipment which makes kids' eyes go wide, and adults' hearts go a flutter.