The children perform a group dance at the talent show held the last day of the summer recreation program Aug. 2 in Jay. Rebecca Richard/Franklin Journal

JAY—The end of the summer recreation program in Jay was marked by a vibrant talent show, showcasing the achievements and creativity of the campers. Emma DiPompo, co-director of the program, shared her reflections on the successful inaugural year.

Lyla Jones, left, and Keslee Bourassa practice the Croc Kids version of the song YMCA at the talent show held the last day of the summer recreation program Aug.2 in Jay. Submitted photo

“I think this summer went excellent for our first year,” DiPompo said. “We had mostly new staff, a new building and new trips. Even during the dog days of summer, we found ways to keep the kids cool with water games and movie days. Popcorn and Popsicles Fridays were a great hit as well.”

While DiPompo acknowledged the inevitable learning curves that come with a new program, she remained optimistic about future improvements. “We will be changing things a bit for next year, but any first try comes with its learning curves,” she stated.

Both DiPompo and her co-director, Jared Berry, were praised for their dedication and commitment. “I think Jared and I did everything that was expected of us,” DiPompo said. “We took excellent care of the building and were commended by the janitors for the cleanliness we strove for on a daily basis in their school.”

Above all, ensuring the campers had a fun and safe experience was their top priority. “And the most important thing, I think the campers had a lot of fun,” DiPompo said. “We made sure safety was our number one priority, but beyond that, we let the children make up new games, play openly in the gym and fields, and explore many of the hiking trails around the school. All in all, I think they had a lot of fun.”

The talent show featured various performances, including a rendition of “YMCA” by Lyla Jones and Keslee Bourassa and a display of cardboard armor created by Blaine Young and Triston Wilson. The finale was a dance routine by all the students.

Spruce Mountain Summer Recreation Program was held at Spruce Mountain Middle School in Jay, running from June 24 to Aug. 2. Highlights included several field trips to Mount Blue State Park in Weld, Mr. Drew and His Animals Too in Lewiston and other well-known attractions.

At the talent show, Blaine Young, left, and Triston Wilson Aug. 2 show their armor built with a cardboard cutting kit purchased for the summer recreation program in Jay. Submitted photo

DiPompo, a 25-year-old education technician from Jay, co-directed the program with Jared Berry of Livermore. DiPompo, a former attendee and counselor of the Spruce Mountain Summer Recreation Program, now leads the initiative she once enjoyed as a child. Berry, an education technician at Spruce Mountain Primary School, also brings his expertise to the program, teaching younger children how to use electronic devices.

Emma DiPompo, 25, of Jay stands in front of a bulletin board she created at the Spruce Mountain Elementary School in Jay. File photo/Sun Journal

DiPompo attended the program as a child. Upon returning to Jay, she took on more responsibilities and duties as a counselor.

As the program looks forward to future summers, DiPompo and Berry remain committed to providing a fun, safe, and enriching experience for all participants.