Day off brings out daredevils

By Marcus Clem

The first snow day of the year came just after school returned from break, giving kids an extension on their time off, used by many in a way known to generations.

Regardless of when it happens, a cancellation of class in St. Joseph means kids will be found sledding at Truman Middle School, as they were Tuesday. The steep hill sloping to the north from the backside of the building is a community favorite, along with similar terrain found at Carden Park and Hyde elementary schools. Among those present Monday was Zion Mondaine.

“It’s a lot of fun,” he said. “I get to play games with some of my friends, do some more sledding, and it’s a lot of fun. It’s like a longer break.”

Especially when doing it away from home, children are encouraged to go sledding under adult supervision, and if the adults in question are coming along for the ride, all the better. That’s the philosophy of Ryan Barker, who attended along with five other family groups to the Truman hill spot on Tuesday.

“When I was a kid, I came here sledding too,” Barker said. “I only lived five or six blocks that way, you know? So, we might as well have fun with it. Better than being miserable at home like other people.”

According to the Center on Injury Research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, an Ohio institute that tracks youth physical health trends, some 20,000 kids suffer preventable injuries while sledding per year. The hospital advises children always wear protective gear — a bicycle helmet will suffice — and that adults ensure their path is clear of obstacles and debris.