The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
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Carnival games pack Lake Ridge Academy for church event providing fun for children
For about 10 years, the New Community Baptist Church of Avon has brought carnival-style games to the community at no charge.
This year the event on March 1 was held at Lake Ridge Academy, 37501 Center Ridge Road in North Ridgeville.
The carnival provided a host of activities, games and snacks for children and their families.
Daryl Neipp, an associate pastor with the church, said the turnout was one of the best yet.
“We had people before the event even started through the doors,” he said.
Children could play carnival games and get stamps on their cards at each of the stations, allowing them to turn in the card for prizes like candy and toys.
“It’s just a really kid-friendly, fun event.”
— Lauren Preto, 45, of Westlake
“There’s everything from skee ball to face painting,” Neipp said.
A bouncy house, basketball and darts were just a few of the other activities available for youngsters.
Brian Gardiner, senior pastor at Community Baptist, said the event acts as an extension for what the church stands for and the love that is shared.
He said the popularity of the event is as simple as its lack of charge.
“A big part of it is it’s free, so it’s something that parents can do with their families,” Gardiner said. “It doesn’t cost them anything.”
Neipp said the camaraderie that comes from the carnival is one of the most beneficial aspects of the event.
“It’s just something that we do for the community, really let them know that we exist and show them love, no strings attached,” he said.
Lauren Preto, 45, of Westlake, said it was her family’s first time at the event.
“It’s just a really kidfriendly, fun event,” she said.