sod. Coombs says, “If another TPI member closer to that market would like to take over that project, I would not be offended. We would then look for a location closer to home to set up the Challenge.”

Coombs strongly believes, “If we can teach children to enjoy natural turfgrass we can reap a lot of benefits as they get older.”

Te truckload of sod arrives from Elmer, NJ at daybreak and is ready for unloading. Photo courtesy of Strauser.

the freedom for that enjoyment in a non-structured way. While some equipment such as hula hoops, balls of various kinds, yard games, etc. may be available, there is no formal program. People, especially families with kids, are encouraged to spend as little or as much time there as their busy schedules allow.

The Results WNEP 16, the local ABC affiliate, was among the local media covering the event. Tey reported one mother’s comment, “It is good to explore because nowadays you don't see kids playing with toys or just outside enjoying. Everybody is in front of a screen and I look back to my childhood and I loved just running outside and the fresh air is good.” Another person stated, “You get to be outside and you can do other activities outside that you can't do when you are inside.” Strauser had a Green Street Challenge Facebook page to promote the event. One comment on the morning of May 27 stated, “We had an awesome time playing!” Another said, “What a great project! Tank you.” Another, “You guys did a wonderful job! Te place looked amazing!”

The Future Come Alive Outside’s long-term goal is to have events like the one in Stroudsburg and in various Canadian locations to be held across both countries, hopefully on the same day. Plans are already being formulated to do it again in Stroudsburg next year. One addition that is being talked about is obtaining volunteer help to carefully remove the sod at the end of the day and reset it at some deserving location. Coombs is ready to again donate the

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Te transformation of a typical city street is just beginning. Photo courtesy of John Coombs, Sr.

Te street is almost ready for a day of fun on natural grass. Photo courtesy of John Coombs, Sr.

Te stretch of Monroe Street is ready for some fun and the welcome sign tells a little about it and thanks the sponsors. Photo courtesy of John Coombs, Sr.

Kids of all ages had a good time on the natural grass on Monroe Street. Photo courtesy of Strauser.

TPI Turf News July/August 201 017