Montavilla Neighborhood Association

Bridger Elementary gets Giant Chess Board for Playground

Aug 20, 2000

Bridger Elementary School (7910 SE Market) invited the Montavilla Neighborhood to attend a dedication of the Big Chess Playground Project on June 9. Portland Public Schools Superintendent Benjamin Canada was on hand to play the first match. The new playground chessboard is
be 16'x16', with knee high chess pieces. Its completion represents community collaboration: Bridger chess team members designed the pieces; Franklin High School students built the pieces and transport cart; a Bridger parent painted the chessboard; and Oregon Building Congress donated the materials. Sponsorships for the pieces are still being sold to raise money for a new playground structure.

Bridger School won the Rainbow Playground Company statewide Milk Jug Collection Contest. Bridger families collected 71,000 milk jugs! Winning the contest entitled them to a 40% discount off the structure they purchase. The discount is valued at $9,000. Bridger PTA has raised $13,000
of the $23,000 needed to complete their playground dream. The playground is considered to be a school and a neighborhood playground.

Large and small donations from community businesses, Montavilla neighbors and Bridger alumni are welcomed and appreciated. For more information call 916-6336 or www.bridgerschool.org