Sunny skies and pleasant temperatures in the low 80s
made it a great day for families to be outside.
Since 2009, OACF has been hosting this event that brings hundreds of
families to the park for a good time together. The event costs are
offset in part by local business partnerships.
This year, a 5K run/walk was added. The day’s events began with
awards given to the top runners.
The top two runners overall were Jackson Johnson and April Goetz.
Other winners placing first were Kailynn Horney in the younger
children’s category, Brandon Heitzig and Anna Haduch in the age
11-19 category, Austin Potter and April Goetz in the age 20-29
category, Jackson Johnson and Nikki Goggin in the age 30-39
category, Tony Zurkhammer and Pam Talkington in the age 40-49
category, Joe Briseno and Barb Nikles in age 50-59 category, and
Brad Nikles in the age 60 and up category.
Wendy Crawford said for the church that they were happy to have over
26 sign up and be in the 5K when just a couple weeks ago no one had
signed up for it
Another addition was a three-on-three basketball tournament with
prizes awarded to the top teams.
In the afternoon, there were several games including a three-legged
race, a hula hoop competition, sack race and water balloon toss.
Toni Bauer said she and her granddaughter had a lot of fun with the
water play.
[to top of second column] |
Kids could also play in one of several inflatable
obstacle course bounce houses, slides, or water tag or try their
hand at archery, basketball, tee-ball, boxing, or one of the
carnival style games. Those who really like climbing could make
their way up a climbing wall. Other fun activities included a photo
booth, face painting, bubbles, and balloons.
There was plenty of food for hungry families with hot
dogs, hamburgers, pulled pork, popcorn, Sno Kones, cotton candy and
more.
Throughout the park church members and other volunteers gladly
served to help make the day fun for all.
On the main stage was a variety of live musical entertainment
including Christian band Ekklesia, Daughters of the King, Big John
and the Band, Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band Glory Days, and Perry
Groves.
The main event was scheduled for 5:30 p.m with Ekklesia providing
more entertainment.
Everyone was invited to attend the evening performance where they
had drawings for several valuable prizes with a grand prize of $500
Christmas cash.
[Angela Reiners] |