FRANKLIN
Over 300 youth and adults enjoyed the 2nd Annual Family Wellness Fun Day held on Saturday, June 25 at Armory Drive Recreational Park. The event consisted of a free, fun day of health awareness, inflatables, rock climbing, face painting, vendors and, of course, food.

Ryan Sumblin, a graduate of Franklin High School and now an author and motivational speaker, returned home to share words of inspiration to help youth in their struggles with life. Also appearing on the program was Mayor Raystine Johnson-Ashburn. Others performing on the main stage were gospel singers Raymond and Letrice Felton, known as Raytrice who performed a selection of gospel songs.

The newly formed youth dance group Create Bliss Dance. under the direction of Trina Ricks performed a series of dance routines to the excitement of the audience. Concluding the live entertainment of the day was a lively presentation by the line-dancing group, Purposely Driven. The dancers were lead by its director, Alisha Hawk. As their routine ended the audience, as well as Create Bliss, joined them in a new line dance developed by Hawks. Both Create Bliss and Purposely Driven are groups formed through programs of Franklin Department of Parks & Recreation.

All youth and adults enjoyed food and lunch bags as well as popcorn and snow cones.

The event was sponsored by Western Tidewater Community Services Board in partnership with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and the Franklin Department of Parks & Recreation.

For more pictures from the event, see page A5.

FRANK DAVIS is the director of Franklin Parks & Recreation. Contact him at fdavis@franklinva.com.