My husband and I stopped off at the roadside John Stretch Park to climb the steep berm overlooking the lake (not much of a view). The park was nearly deserted, but there were plenty of picnic tables, some of which were shaded. I noticed a young couple--apparently locals--sitting and talking at one of the tables while their two young sons played nearby on what passed as a playground. And that old, miserable playground, with just a couple of faded plastic slides, really steamed me. In such a rich country, why can't we afford some decent play equipment for the children of those hardworking residents who need it most? Not sure who maintains this place--state, county, the feds, or Big Sugar--but I hope whatever entity does will allocate some money to replace this pitiful play area. read more