Run to Fall festival offers food, fun, for entire family

  • Published
  • By Elaine W. Johns
  • 71st Force Support Squadron Marketing
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Run to Fall, a classic autumn festivity involving apples, pumpkins, free food, activities and family fun, will be held from 3:30 to 6 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 8, on the Youth Center grounds. 

This year's festival will kick off with an early Commander's 5K Run sponsored by the Bradley Fitness Center. Registration for the run begins at 7:30 a.m. at the Fitness Center and the run begins at 8 a.m. 

Runners will participate in either Men's or Women's Open, 34 and under, or Men's or Women's Master, 35 and above. Points will be awarded toward the Commander's Trophy for first, second and third place finishers. All runners will receive a race towel. 

"Fall Fest is a great community event open to all base personnel," said Diane L. McCurdy, 71st Force Support Squadron director. "Festivals such as this are great morale boosters and provide a family atmosphere for all to have a great time." 

The fall theme includes hot cider and apple pies served fresh off the historic chuck wagons of the prairie times by Starbucks and Schwan's. As a precaution against the H1N1 flu virus, apple dippers provided by McDonald's will be served in place of bobbing for apples. 

A gypsy wagon for the children will be available, along with hay rides sponsored by Dr. J.C. Ogle. 

During the festival, items will be collected for care packages that will be sent to the 56 Team Vance members currently deployed. 

The Youth Center gym will have informational booths to connect military families with resources at Vance AFB and showcase businesses that provide services to the Vance community. 

Local businesses whose sponsorship help make the Run to Fall festival possible include: Advance Food Company, PT Professionals, Reliv, Papa John's, Mazzio's, Pastimes, Buffalo Wild Wings, Branson Tourism Center, Wendy's, Arlington Fun Central, C & C Produce, Deca, American Red Cross, Tinker Federal Credit Union, Dickinson Theaters, Payless, Edigers Diamonds, Leonardo's Discovery Warehouse and Jackson Diamond Jewelers. 

Food will be available, including family favorites such as chili, hotdogs, Frito pies, chips and a variety of drinks. "There is something for every one of all ages to enjoy and this Fall Fest celebration is one event that Team Vance should not miss," said Kate Holdeman, Youth Program coordinator. 

Volunteers are needed to help at different games and activities, set up, tear down and clean up. To volunteer for games and activities, call Ms. Holdeman, 213-7166. To volunteer for set up, tear down and clean up, contact Ashley Murphy, 213-7950.