Fall Family Fest, Literacy Night brings smiles

Sadie Flint, a 7th grader at Eminence, is having a unicorn painted on her face by volunteer Lori McDowell during the Fall Family Fun Fest and Literacy Night Thursday at Cloverdale Middle School.

CLOVERDALE -- Families enjoyed an evening of food, games and pumpkin decorating Thursday during the Fall Family Fun Fest and Literacy Night at Cloverdale Middle School.

"It is the biggest family night with appropriately priced games and food," said PTO president Angela Ladd.

The event, which is sponsored by the PTO every year, helps fulfill the teacher's wish list of items to help enhance classroom learning. Teachers request items such as laminators or reader sets for the kindergarten students.

Six-year-old Hagon Spurrier, left, Hunter Grimes, 5 years old, and Judith Means, a first grader at Cloverdale Elementary, race to see who can eat their donut without hands first for a prize during the Fall Family Fun Fest and Literacy Night Thursday at Cloverdale Middle School. Hunter came out victorious over his two competitors.

"Every child will leave with a book (tonight)," Ladd said.

To help incorporate literacy, the Putnam County Public Library's Bookmobile was on hand for a tour and to give families the opportunity to sign up for a library card.

In addition to the games and books, there were raffle tickets and food available. More than 300 different raffle items were up for grabs including gift certificates for Indianapolis restaurants and museums.

"Local businesses donated to the raffle, too," said Ladd.

Last year, there were more than 750 raffle tickets sold. Also helping bring the night together were 17 Cloverdale High School ambassadors.

"They are a big help," added Ladd.

Chili, hot dogs and other food items served were purchased with donated gift cards from Wal-Mart and Kroger. Wendy's and McDonald's in Cloverdale donated condiments for the evening.

All proceeds from the event will benefit Cloverdale Elementary School.