Kindergarten student Aidan Giblin and second grader Cameron (Cami) Hendrickson of Rumson greet the Bulldog mascot at Family Fall Festival 2014.
Press release from Rumson School District
Music and laughter filled the air on September 26, as purple-clad youngsters ran hurriedly about the grounds of Deane Porter School, during the Rumson School District’s third annual Family Fall Festival.
A powerful display of “Purple Pride,” the event (cooked up by hardworking parent and student volunteers) featured bounce houses, carnival games with prizes, drills and games courtesy of CrossFit Triple Threat in Red Bank, basketball fun with “Coach Cal” and “Coach Shempy,” and airbrush tattoos by “Party on with Natalie.”
The large crowd enjoyed refreshments such as flavored ices and cotton candy, a variety of fare from Freshica’s in Fair Haven and Locals Foodery in Rumson, and hot dogs from the cart of Mrs. Reidy. Also featured were a candy and treat tent and a display of Bulldog-themed merchandise for sale.
The musical soundtrack accompanying the frenzy of activity was provided by DJ Tommy Lynch, and even the RFH Bulldog mascot got in on the action, busting some dance moves and receiving hugs from happy youngsters.
“This is just such a wonderful event,” said Rumson School District Superintendent Maryrose Caulfield-Sloan, surveying the large crowd enjoying the fundraiser for the district’s Parent Teacher Organization.
“It’s just nice to be able to help out,” said Jenna Unger, an eighth grader at Forrestdale School, as she expertly twirled pink cotton candy onto several white cones for a large group of young cheerleaders.
Lorna Robinson, a freshman at Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School, agreed as she helped to hand out the treats.
“It’s been fun to work here as a volunteer,” she said. “Everyone really appreciates our participation.”
Fall Festival was held from 4:30 to 7 p.m. and coincided with the school district’s Purple Pride Day, as well as an RFH home football game against Monmouth Regional High School. As the event neared its conclusion, the crowd’s anticipation was building over the upcoming nearby game, which RFH won by a score of 35-20.
In the weeks leading up to Fall Festival, district parents provided support by purchasing “paw print” sponsorships for their children to decorate. The paw print sponsorships decorated the hallways of Deane Porter School as well as the path leading to Fall Festival.
Alex Everett and Liza Tamashunas served as Co-Chairs for the event. Also helping to make it all possible were PTO members Carolyn Cashion, Laura Gangemi, and Nadia John, as well as a host of parent volunteers for games and check-ins.
