PARK RIDGE, N.J.—The Park Ridge Elks Lodge snapped with color, creativity, and contagious excitement on Saturday, March 29, as teams of enthusiastic students from three local schools competed in the second annual D.A.R.E. LEGO Kid Masters Tournament.
Back to defend their 2024 title, West Ridge School once again claimed top honors—this time with their Light-Pink Lions team rising to the challenge. They faced strong competition from peers at East Brook School and Our Lady of Mercy Academy, who brought their A-game in the form of imaginative builds and well-honed teamwork.
Over the course of four themed building rounds, participants constructed everything from dream cities to imaginative creatures, all while racing the clock and collaborating under pressure. The event, designed to promote teamwork, critical thinking, and creativity in a fun, drug-free environment, drew cheers and applause from proud families and supporters who packed the lodge.
West Ridge’s Light-Pink Lions—Gabriella, Madison, Cecilia, and Samantha—earned first place honors and took home $100 Amazon gift cards each. Not far behind were the West Ridge Blue Leopards (Jase, Brayden, Logan, and Nathan), who nabbed second place and $75 gift cards. Rounding out the top three were East Brook’s Red Polar Bears (Pierce, Charles, George, and Nathan), whose third-place finish earned them each a $50 prize.
In all, $2,700 in event costs and prizes were generously covered by the Park Ridge Police Department, underscoring their ongoing support for the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program and community engagement initiatives. Officers were on hand throughout the day, encouraging participants and helping ensure a fun, safe environment.
Adding a touch of star power to the day was celebrity LEGO judge Leland E. Streetman, whose playful spirit and discerning eye helped guide the competition. Streetman praised the kids for their ingenuity and teamwork.
Organizers gave special thanks to Carol Morelli and the Park Ridge Elks Lodge for once again hosting the tournament, now growing into a beloved annual tradition.
Plans are already in the works for next year’s competition, and if Saturday’s energy is any indication, the LEGO Kid Masters Tournament has firmly cemented its place as a highlight of the school year.