McMinnville officials are waiving the rental fee for Rocket Park in order for a Warren County Reunion to be held there Saturday, July 11 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Organized by Wayne Wolford, commander of American Legion Post 208, the event will be free of charge and for all military veterans, families, friends and the community to enjoy a day of socializing.
“It’s for anyone who wants to come,” said Wolford.
According to information presented to the city about the event, it will actually be two days. On Friday, July 10, there will be a meet and greet at the Warren County High School cafeteria from 5-8 p.m. Some finger foods will be provided, as long as the food lasts. However, everyone is welcome to bring a finger food item.
The Saturday event at Rocket Park will have a reunion atmosphere and visitors are encouraged to bring tables, chairs, tents, umbrellas, coolers, and activities such as horseshoes, corn hole, dominos, cards, etc.
“You can also bring grills to barbecue, or a picnic lunch for you and your family and friends,” said Wolford. “We will not cater food or drinks. You can come and go as you please anytime you would like. The idea is to come and have a good time with friends and family.”
For families that would rather not bring their own food or activities on Saturday, some will be available. Wolford says fish, hot dogs and hamburgers will be sold by Fred Locke, and Jeff Martin will provide games for the kids.
Wolford requested city officials provide use of the park for free due to no admission fee and the event being community-oriented. The city’s Parks and Recreation Committee considered his request. On the committee are Aldermen Ben Newman, Steve Harvey and Jimmy Bonner.
“He reached out to me and asked about using the park for free,” said McMinnville Parks and Recreation director Scott McCord. “I told him that it’s not my place to waive fees. I asked him to send in a request, even if it’s by email, to me and I told him I would put it on the committee’s agenda.”
When Bonner questioned rental cost, McCord stated, “Rental of Rocket Park is $40 for four hours, so $80.”
“You don’t want to turn this request down,” said Alderman Everett Brock. “It’s for veterans.”
Newman stated, “I don’t see a problem with it. I make a motion we waive the $80 fee.”
“I don’t like waiving a lot of fees, but since this is for veterans,” said Bonner. “We owe our veterans a lot.”
The measure passed unanimously.