When I was growing up, after Christmas was over....this is the day that made living worthwhile. Today is our community's school picnic. At Kennywood. Yes, I know...I am no longer in school and I no longer have young children to drag to the amusement park. Trust me, mention the words "Kennywood school picnic" to any Western Pennsylvanian and wait for the look in their eyes. It's a ritual. Starting with the poster they hung in the schools announcing that the tickets would go on sale. The dream of summer. Then there's the day you buy your tickets....a few weeks before school ends. Standing in line with the money your mother gave you in an envelope and told you not to lose. You felt so "big". Going to Stephen Richards or Kaufmann's to get your "Kennywood Outfit". Stopping by Pic-Way to get a new pair of canvas tenny shoes. Packing the basket. Figuring out who you would ride with. Taking the bus from upstreet. Going to Kennywood Park. All day. Rain or shine. The Little Dipper. The Big Dipper. The Jack Rabbit. The Racer. The Thunderbolt. French fries. Chocolate covered blocks of ice cream in a double cake cone with a cherry on top. Putting your trash in the roaring lion. The laughing lady at the train. Kennywood. A rite of summer. Memories of the anticipation, the adventure, the fun, and the friendships. And, that special outfit. Your Kennywood outfit. Brand new. The hieght of fashion. The best part of summer.
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