Friends coming together, eating, laughing and renewing acquaintances are a big part of the holiday season, especially if it is combined with outstanding musical talent.
“Hark at the Park! A Harvey Family Christmas” was presented at the Park Theater on Monday night as fundraiser for the Hamilton Street Activity Center, and Magness Library. 
Several Harvey family members are involved in the planning of the program, with Steve Harvey serving as the host. This was the seventh year for the event, with the prior activities taking place at the library.
“We have always held this at the library where we had about 100 people, so when we moved here we were a little concerned if we could get enough people to come,” said Harvey. “But we sold over 400 tickets and we are so thankful and excited that people would come and support the event.” 
Guests from all walks of life attended the show, with smiling faces excited about the program and the facility. A variety of talent was presented, with most of them Warren County natives.
“I originally wanted people to realize how much talent we had here, and to keep in touch with those who had moved out of town,” said Harvey. “It’s a way to showcase local talent and to also bring people back to the community. 
The Harveys are a musical family, with talent deep in their family history. Steve is quick to point out he has brothers, cousins, nephews and others involved in the presentation. Much support is derived from his parents, Jo and Joe Harvey, who enjoyed the show.
“My mother is a piano player, has given lessons, and now plays the clarinet in the Silver and Gold Band,” said Harvey.
Friends Mary Mullican and Charlotte Isaacs enjoyed the pre-show snacks and visiting with other guests.
“We are excited about the show,” said Mullican. “This is an exceptional place, and we are so glad it is open because it brings back so many memories.”
The evening started with the Silver and Gold Brass Quartet providing a different twist to some holiday songs. They were followed by McMinnville native Chuck Jones, son of Lena and Charles W Jones. He now resides in Charlotte, N. Car., and enjoys returning to McMinnville to visit. From the stage he conveyed what a delight it was to be performing on the Park stage, the place where he saw so many movies while growing up.
Teenage songstress Lucy Haston joined him for a few songs, with Tim Winton and his band following. The Hope Fellowship Singers, Maxine Weeden, and others also shared the stage into the night.
“We raised approximately $5,500 for the two organizations, which will be split between them,” said Harvey.