Theme for September festival is helping others

The theme for a festival of faith Sept. 19 and 20 will be helping others.

With a food drive, sports and live music, the event proposes to be one of the largest of its kind in Carson Valley.

Spokeswoman Mindy DePaz said Spirit Fest '08 will be in Lampe Park and will feature Mike Hagen's Strength Team, BFC professional skateboarders, giant inflatable toys and rides, Sierra Safari Zoo kid's presentation with live animals, puppet shows, carnival booths, food vendors, and sports games.

Live music in several genres will be performed including contemporary artist Andy Gridley, screamo rock and acoustical band A Current Affair, acoustical and rock music by Chris Heifner, hip-hop and gospel by Ova-Flow, including several local bands performing contemporary music, grassroots.

"We have a fully refurbished 1978 Chevy Silverado custom truck with specialty painting that changes from dark blue to a purple," DePaz said. "We'll auction it off at the event and anyone may bid on the truck. All proceeds from the auction will benefit a local church building fund."

Several community resource organizations will give out information on the services they offer. The Minden-Douglas Elks will serve hot dogs and hamburgers to raise money for their charities.

Organizers are kicking off the event with a food drive. Non-perishable food donations may be brought to Valley Christian Fellowship in the Meadowdale Center at 1267 Highway 395.

"Also, please bring donations to our collection booth at the festival both days," DePaz said. "We desire to help those in our community who are struggling with providing the basic necessity of food during this rough time in our economy."

The festival is also seeking nominations for people with financial or physical restrictions who need help with repairs around their homes.

DePaz asked that people not nominate themselves.

"Although we would like to serve every person nominated, our resources will set the limit on the people we can serve," she said.

DePaz said there is no promise or guarantee of a nominee being selected. Anyone sending a nomination letter must include their contact information in case organizers have questions or can notify them if their nominee has been selected. Letters should explain why the person is in need and what is being requested.

Helping those selected will serve as prizes for those participating in the festival's sporting events.

DePaz said organizers are looking for a community project that needs improvements or repairs on public property.