GRAND PRIZES —Vista Pastor Steve Thompson, center, is pictured with grand prize winners Allan Kraay, left, and Hayleigh Williams during the Third Annual Party in the Park Wednesday, Sept. 14. (Submitted photo)

By CAROL JOLLY

Staff Writer

A glorious day of celebrating "Community" took place on Wednesday, September 14th, in New Richland at City Park as Vista Evangelical Church held its third annual Party in the Park.

People came from near and far to attend this family fun event. Even though the weather was a bit brisk, community members from Mantorville, Waseca, Albert Lea, Freeborn, Hartland, Ellendale, Wells, Geneva, Bricelyn and New Richland were not deterred.

"I have been here every year," said Brad Field. "More people come to the Party in the Park every year."

"The first year this event drew about 200 people, last year approximately 300," said Vista Pastor Steve Thompson. "And this year was a great night to enjoy a meal with 400 of our friends and neighbors."

Vista Evangelical Covenant Church of rural New Richland hosts the event to bring the community together. They want others to be encouraged to take part in the New Richland community, as well.

"The New Richland community is a blessing to us," said Thompson. "We want everyone to experience that."

In addition, they have games for the kids to play. They had super size kickball, super size football, and slight shot water balloon competitions. Other activities included face painting and a bounce house, which is also available to rent from the church.

"It gives the children a fun and healthy environment to be active in," said Thompson.

The Party in the Park event also benefits the New Richland Area Food Shelf. All non-perishable food items and monies donated go directly to the local food shelf.

"This year, guest contributions helped raise over $650 and 300 pounds of food for the New Richland Area Food Shelf,” said Thompson.

Area businesses also helped in the Party in the Park annual event. They contributed prizes such as gift certificates and numerous other prizes.

The grand prize winner in the adult division was Allan Kraay of New Richland. He won half a hog. The kids’ grand prize winner was Hayleigh Williams of Hartland. Other prize winners were announced every 20 minutes from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

"The Party in the Park brings everybody out to meet their neighbors," said Ruth Pettey. "Kids get to unwind after school, and hopefully will bring people to our church."

"The food is great, and this is good fun," said Julie Knutson.