Family event warms guests

National Trail Parks and Recreation employees give money, time for the fall Family Fun Hayride.

Brady King, 4, and his mom, Tonya King, roast hot dogs at the National Trail Parks and Recreation District’s Family Fun Hayride on Saturday, Oct. 24, at Snyder Park. Staff photo by Elaine Morris Roberts

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Photos: Family Fun Hayride

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By Elaine Morris Roberts, Staff Writer Updated 11:35 AM Sunday, October 25, 2009

SPRINGFIELD — Cooler temperatures and the possibility of rain didn’t keep Brady King from roasting hot dogs over a bonfire at Snyder Park on Saturday, Oct. 24.

Brady, 4, and his mom, Tonya King, joined area residents at National Trail Parks and Recreation District’s fourth annual Family Fun Hayride.

The free event featured hayrides around the park’s golf course and a bonfire that kept everyone warm while they roasted marshmallows to make s’mores or just stay warm.

Every year, NTPRD employees volunteer to staff the event and provide some food and craft supplies.

“This is one program where all of our employees really come together,” said Penny Dunbar, NTPRD recreation specialist.

This year’s event was staffed with about 10 NTPRD employees who gave up part of their Saturday to create fun for those attending.

“Everyone kicked in a little money and gave of their time,” said Neil Carpenter, NTPRD maintenance employee who along with wife, Summer, volunteered to do face painting.

Pumpkin decorating, with pumpkins donated by Pendleton Farms, was also available.

Other local businesses donated to help the cause.

Harmony Farm Market donated the wagon for the hayride, Klosterman’s provided hot dog buns and Texas Roadhouse sent peanuts.

When Brady was finished with his hot dog, he found a chocolate bar to keep him occupied until he and his family could climb on the hay wagon.

“This is our second year at the event,” Tonya said. “It’s a fun family thing to do, and Brady enjoys the hayride and the face painting.”

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