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Richmond UMC annual free community party July 26

The eighth-annual all-free community party hosted by Richmond United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 26 is an outreach event that extends hospitality and gives residents an opportunity to enjoy food, fun and fellowship, according to organizers.

Open to all, the event unfolds on the parking lot of the church located on South Sugar Street, Richmond, for the rain-or-shine event, according to Gay Warren, event chairman.

Among the community party’s attractions this year will be pony rides for children; a petting zoo; inflatables; wagon rides; children’s crafts; face painting; free photos of the children until 1 p.m.; and door prizes for all age groups.

Live entertainment will feature the Master’s Voices in addition to musical selections by Adam Kiaski and Sarah Powley.

The Master’s Voices began as four men from Stow Alliance Fellowship in Stow, Ohio, who came together in the fall of 2005 by their love for the Lord and a strong desire to share that love through a ministry in Southern Gospel music. Since that time the Master’s Voices have ministered in song at church services; various special events; and even as a barbershop quartet in a Tallmadge Dynamics Community Theater production of “The Music Man.” After several personnel changes over the years, original members Paul Hetherington, bass, and Jim Webb, lead, are now joined by Steve Cupp, baritone, and most recently, Lisa Gopp, tenor, and Ray Brenner, piano.

There also will be a number of informational booths on hand, including the Trinity Health System health van through the Prime Time Office on Aging; the Jefferson County Health Department; Jefferson County Sheriff Fred Abdalla doing children’s fingerprint identification cards; WIC (Women, Infant and Children); the Jefferson County Office of the JB Green Team; New Body Club; the Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County; the Richmond Lions Club; the Ohio Valley Junior Woman’s Club; American Red Cross Jefferson County Chapter; the United Way of Jefferson County; the Richmond Volunteer Fire Department; and Boy Scout Troop 20.

Free food will include hot dogs with all the fixings, ice cream, pulled pork sandwiches, haluski, pasta salad, popcorn, nachos and cheese and beverages.

Free school supplies will be available to children while quantities last.

“This party is provided by the church for the community as a way to reach out to our neighbors and share our hospitality as we strive to live our motto of ‘Reaching, Teaching, and Serving in Christ’s Name,'” Warren said, noting the event is funded by the generosity of the church’s members. “The Richmond UMC has been in the present location in the community since 1813. The church, under the leadership of the Rev. Carol Smith, is a warm and friendly church that invites all to come and share the love of Jesus Christ. It is a multi-generational church that provide programs for all ages.

“We enjoy organizing this community party where everyone, no matter their age, can savor a few hours of free fun, food and fellowship. We want the community to know that the church is a loving and caring church and that all are always welcomed. Everything is donated by the members of the church,” Warren said.

Parking is available near the church with handicapped parking provided. For information, call the church office at (740) 765-4957.

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