‘Rocky Celebration’ To Boost Kids’ Ball Program

Organizers are planning for the first-ever “Rocky Celebration” in July to benefit the ball program and to bring the Rocky Comfort community together for some fun.

The special celebration is set for Saturday, July 14, at the Rocky Comfort ball field.

Events will include a barbecue cook-off, an antique tractor show, a car show, face painting, live music, bounce houses, vendor booths and a hot dog eating contest. The day will conclude with fireworks after dark.

Co-director Andrea Faidley said one of the coaches brought up the idea, and a committee has expanded the celebration to include a variety of events to involve the entire community.

So far, Faidley said launching such a big event for the first time definitely “takes a lot of work and effort,” she said.

But all the work is worth it to make sure all children get a chance to play ball, she said.

This year, 40 children have signed up to play ball — double the amount of children who signed up last year, Faidley said.

Several people are working on the event’s committee, including the board of directors and several parents, she said.

All proceeds will benefit the Rocky Comfort ball program.

Organizers hope to raise money for athletic gear, ball uniforms, utilities, operating expenses, upgrades to the field and more.

The Rocky Comfort ball program doesn’t rely on city funds to help with its budget. Program organizers are charged with raising their own money, Faidley said.

Those who oversee the ball program do not want personal financial situations or lack of funds to prevent children from playing, Faidley said.

“These kids are my kids,” Faidley said, adding she wants all children to have the opportunity to play ball and have fun.

Raising money is not the only goal, though. Those planning the big event hope that it will seem reminiscent of past celebrations the community used to enjoy.

Years ago, Rocky Comfort neighbors hosted “Rocky Days,” Faidley said. That communitywide celebration was discontinued at some point. Now, organizers of the “Rocky Celebration” hope that this event will take its place and bring the community together, Faidley said.

Rocky Comfort is a small community and organizers hope to involve people of all ages by hosting a variety of events, even those who may not have children in the ball program, Faidley said.

All the events start around noon that day, except for the barbecue cook-off which starts at 8 a.m.

Organizers will sell tickets to sample the barbecue. Tickets are $5 for three samples or $10 for seven samples.

Concessions also will be available.

Organizers are seeking contestants for the barbecue cook-off, vendors, bands and performers, car show participants, tractor participants and more.

Entry fee for the barbecue cook-off is $100. Vendor registration is $25 for one booth. Car show participation is $15 per car.

First-place, second-place and People’s Choice awards will be given to barbecue cook-off winners and car show winners.

To register or for more information, contact Faidley at 479-685-9841 or Dana Cheatham at 417-592-0578.