The skies were cloudy and the temperature was chilly, but it didn't take away the smiles and laughter of children Saturday morning when ventured into the "Jungle" at Saltillo City Park. As you can see in the photo slideshow, they tested every piece of equipment and gave their seal of approval. The playground dedication was held in conjunction with the city Easter egg hunt at the park.

As I mentioned in a Daily Journal article about the project, it's taken the community to build a jungle for its children. The Saltillo Junior Women's Club took the lead in the project, encouraging residents and business to contribute or participate in the many fund-raising events it hosted. The Carpenter Foundation helped the cause with a $30,000 grant and the city of Saltillo showed its commitment by devoting $50,000 to the project.

Mindy Johnson, the Junior Women's Club president, said the dedication also served as the kickoff for the second phase of playground construction. With more equipment planned, it means more fundraisers and more opportunities for everyone to contribute.

Check out the slideshow of photos I took at the park Saturday. A video from the opening ceremony will be posted elsewhere on NEMS360.com Wednesday morning.