By NEAL WAGNER / City Editor

Dozens of parents and their children got a hands-on feel for the plethora of afterschool activities kids can take part in at Pelham’s Valley Elementary School while giving working parents peace of mind while away from their children.

VES celebrated national “Lights on Afterschool Day” on Oct. 17 by outlining the benefits afterschool programs bring to local families.

In honor of Lights on Afterschool Day, Pelham Mayor Gary Waters signed a proclamation naming Oct. 17 Lights on Afterschool day in Pelham. Lighting and Lamp donated a spotlight lamp to highlight the proclamation and to add a special touch to the other “light themed” decorations in the afterschool care classroom.

VES teacher Angela Newkirk, who is in charge of the VES afterschool program greeted each parent and gave them a special tour to explain the types of activities their children typically participate in during afterschool hours. Newkirk also gave parents a preview of special upcoming activities at the school, including a special western-themed event scheduled for Oct. 31, and a spa day scheduled for November. Pelham’s Cobblestone Shoes and Boots donated a pair of boots for a special display promoting the upcoming western day. Faithful Hair Salon donated fingernail polish and other items for the upcoming spa day.

Parents who attended the event were also treated to refreshments provided by Shelby County’s Community Education Programs.

“We wanted to say thank you to our parents for entrusting their children to us,” said Newkirk.