Hope finds way to recreation center

Friday, June 9, 2006

Hope's Way has saddled up its horses, hitched up its wagon and taken to the road to bring attention to the many special needs children in Indiana and to the free recreation services provided to them at the Bainbridge area facility.

A three-day journey from Hope's Way to Martinsville this week has raised awareness of the upcoming festival fundraiser that provides family entertainment while raising funds for the family-operated recreation center for special needs children.

The third annual Hope's Way Music Festival and Hog Roast Fundraiser is set for noon-8 p.m. Saturday, June 17. Hope's Way is located north of U.S. 36 on CR 665 East. Turn north off U.S. 36 at CR 600 East and follow the signs.

"We've expanded our horizons this year," said Hope's Way founder Elizabeth Shafer. "We've added a flea market and horseshoes, and of course there's music all day, food and activities for everyone."

To kick off the covered wagon journey, Greencastle Mayor Nancy Michael was joined by Hope's Way sponsors John O'Hair of First National Bank of Greencastle and Kim Brattain of the Greencastle Wal-Mart to wish the riders well. Indiana State police provide an escort for the first day of the journey toward Morgan County.

The covered wagon driven by volunteer Carl Hedge of Roachdale was accompanied by Cowboy Rick Shafer and outrider Ramona Adams. They traveled for three days to help promote the recreation center.

Several special needs children met with the old fashioned wagon riders on Monday evening to help feed the horses, Rock and Rose, and to enjoy a bowl of beans cooked over a campfire by Cowboy Rick and Grandpa Carl. The journey ended at the Morgan County Fairgrounds in Martinsville where Mayor Buskirk greeted and welcome the volunteers to officially end the trip. The colorful covered wagon is display at Hope's Way where it makes its home helping to make children happy.

For more information about Hope's Way Recreation center or the fundraiser, call 522-5566.

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