There was no lack of kids and their parents as Mayor Frank Picozzi cut the ribbon held by City Council President Steve McAllister, left, and William Facente, community development director, to officially open the new playground in Apponaug Tuesday afternoon. The $768,900 improvement that includes a basketball court and ADA compliant parking was fund by a combination of a $320,000 DEM grant and a federal Community Development Block Grant. Funds also paid for netting to stop balls from the adjoining Little League field from being hit into the playground. Cleats are not to be worn at the playground for fear of cutting up the spongy surface designed to protect kids from injuries. (Warwick Beacon photo)