GRAVETTE -- Organizers of Gravette's "First Saturday" event June 6 seemed to agree the day was a big success. This was the initial "First Saturday" and one exhibitor described it as a "learning experience."
Not everyone was set up on Main Street by 10 a.m. as planned; but when things did get up and running, there were lots of fun events going on. Despite the heat and competition with several other events in the area on Saturday, many people participated in events during the day.
The morning events began with the pancake breakfast served at the Gravette Fire Station. Members of the fire department's volunteer crew prepared and served the breakfast of pancakes, sausage, biscuits and gravy, orange juice, coffee and milk. Many families chose to come out and eat breakfast with the firefighters rather than cook their own at home. Proceeds will benefit firefighters and their families who may need assistance.
A benefit yard sale at the Goody Shack bakery raised an estimated $1,000 for three young ladies who will be traveling to Canada and to Colorado this summer with the People to People and Little Britches Rodeo programs. Organizers thanked all who donated items to sell, bought items or made donations. Clothing not sold was given to a charity clothes closet and other items donated to Care and Share. The arts and crafts festival at Granny's Simple Blessings also drew several visitors.
A bounce house and BB gun range on Main Street entertained youngsters, and food vendors served a variety of food, from hot dogs and chips to meat pies and kettle corn.
Ice cream, snow cones and cold soft drinks were popular during the hot afternoon, and members of the Lions Club sold smoked chicken dinners in the afternoon and early evening. Several people were rewarded with prizes in raffle drawings, as well.
Four bikers participated in a poker run from noon to 2:30 p.m. and Rick Gruwer of Gravette held the winning hand when awards were presented on Main Street.
Musical groups performed on the main stage during the day, including the Brick Fields Duet before noon and the Ryan Fourt Trio in the afternoon. A dance recital with more than a dozen acts by Dynamic Rhythm Dance Studio students and a street dance climaxed the musical entertainment for the day. Dynamic Rhythm instructor Jodi Moore announced her studio will be hosting a dance camp June 22-25 and an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 25, and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 26.
As darkness fell, families gathered on the vacant lot north of the Bank of Gravett to watch the movie, "Paddington," before taking the weary children home to bed.
Similar "First Saturday" events are planned for Saturday, July 4, and Saturday, Aug. 8. The July 4 event will also feature the popular annual fireworks display at Pop Allum Park.
Those wishing to secure a booth for future events may call the Chamber of Commerce, 787-8998, or email [email protected].
General News on 06/10/2015