T-R PHOTO BY MIKE DONAHEY
Youngsters showed their agility and concentration while participating in egg races at Marshalltown Strong Field Day at Franklin Field Saturday. With plenty of food, beverages and fun, residents had a chance to display their strength in a tug-of-war, dexterity in a ring toss, and horse-brushing skills. Starting at 10 a.m on the spacious football field, the free-of-charge event was organized by the Long-Term Family Recovery Committee, which has been working aggressively since the July 2018 tornado to bring relief and resources to hundreds of storm-related victims. Volunteer Rev. Jennifer Daniel said a number of adults and children are struggling with the tornado’s impact, be they mental or financial, and the committee will continue to work with them. However, Saturday was a day to be outside and have fun. “I think kids are being exposed to activities they have not participated in before,” said Kriss Wurr an event volunteer from Iowa River Church of the Brethren. Rev. Gregg Davision of Trinity Lutheran Church, a committee volunteer, who was joined by a host of his parishioners, said the committee is looking forward to sponsoring more fun-themed events after the 2019-20 school year begins Aug. 26. “We will be sponsoring events at Wolfe Ranch on five days when there is no school,” he said. “We will have day-long programs. The one in September will be for Anson Elementary kids, later special days for Woodbury, Rogers and Franklin schools. There will be plenty of activities at the ranch from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.” For more information, contact 641-485-3596 or visit the organization’s Facebook page @MarshalltownStrongLTR.