Family Fest Saturday at WH First Assembly

It's not quite Halloween and it's really early for an egg hunt, so the people of Whitehouse First Assembly of God Church thought a day of fun for the whole family was in order. Family Fall Fest will be packed with fun on Saturday, Sept. 15 beginning at 10 a.m. and running until 3 p.m., covering their entire property at 502 Hwy. 110 South.

According to Pastor Michael Fleming, the church has always had excellent participation in their Fall Fest at Halloween and Easter egg hunts, but the idea came that it didn't have to be a specific holiday to open the doors and their hearts to the community and invite everyone over for some fun.

"The church's slogan is 'family focused and spirit driven,'" Fleming said. "That's what this day is going to be. A real familyfocused day to enjoy together."

The Family Fall Fest has activities for each and every family member to be a part of and to enjoy.

The men's ministry at the church has put together a car, truck and bike show. Along with the classics will be specialty and race cars. Early registration entry fees are $20 or $25 the day of the event. Registration begins at 9 a.m. on the day of the show. Call the church at 903- 839-2356 to register early.

Awards for the top three entries in each category will be given. All entries are eligible to win prizes and giveaways. The grand prize will be to go 10 laps at Texas Motor Speedway. All of the proceeds from the show will go to help support Zoe Ministries. This is a prison ministry set up by Terry Fancher.

While the men are drooling over the cool cars, the ladies' ministry will be setting up the best pies in town. Prizes will be given for best taste, best presentation and most original pies. Those pies will be well worth the effort with first prize set at $100, second prize set at $50 and third prize yielding $25.

On hand to do the judging will be Whitehouse High School Principal Tony Black, former mayor Suzanne Loudamy and KVNE's morning host Mike Harper.

Pie entries must register by 11 a.m. All are welcome to enter. Winners will be announced at noon with slices of the pies being sold after that.

To keep the kids occupied and jumping for joy all sorts of inflatables will be on site including slides, bounce house, jousting, obstacle course and boxing. To add to the carnival atmosphere there will be a petting zoo, space simulator and carnival games for all ages.

Also the Royal Rangers of Whitehouse First Assembly will be holding a camping adventure that includes marshmallow roast and target range for sling shots and bow and arrow.

Every high school student in town will be lined up at the dunking booth. High school principal Tony Black will be on the "wet seat" holding his breath as kids attempt to put him in the tank.

Youth will also enjoy the tournaments set up for Guitar Hero on the big screen, ping-pong and foosball.

While sucking down those fried Twinkies and hot dogs, youth bands from area churches will be on hand to fill the day with music. Guitarist Terry Fancher will be performing during the later afternoon. Fancher heads up Zoe Ministries Inc., reaching out to prisons, streets and churches through concerts, services, seminars and retreats.

Along with the fun and food comes the opportunity to give back to the community in a huge way. Stewart Blood Center will be on site for a blood drive set up in the youth room of the church. Remember to bring your drivers license and eat before you donate.