Over 200 people attended the 10th anniversary celebration of the Dove Project. It was held Wednesday, July 16th on the west side of the San Saba Health Service Center.

Several other programs participated by offering program literature and information, diagnostic testing, and lots of prizes, treats, and games. These programs included: CTCADA (drug prevention program); the Hoerster Clinic; Family Services Center of Brownwood; Family Planning; HHSC (represented by Danna Smith) - children with special healthcare needs; San Saba Police Department; Capitol Area Food Bank; The Taylor Clinic of Brownwood; and the Political Asylum Project of Austin (PAPA).

Of course, the star of the Funfair/Healthfair was a giant waterslide, along with a bounce house, and cartoon characters personally interacting with the crowd. Several games were played and children of all ages had a great time!

The air was filled with festive music selected and played by Wayne Gatliff of "Gone Country." Children were able to show off their unique styles and dancing talents to the music of the "Chicken Dance" and "YMCA". Prizes were given for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners of the dance contest.

Surely, no celebration would be complete without food! A huge "Thank You" goes out to Tim Gill and Penny Starks, who cooked and served sausages and hotdogs. Free soft drinks flowed from the Dr. Pepper concession trailer. For dessert, a large, beautiful cake, decorated with a white dove, was served to all who attended this 10th anniversary celebration.

At noon, Georgia Harris, Director of the Dove Project since its inception, handed out certificates, and brightly colored tote bags with screenprinted Dove Project logos, to the sponsors of this celebration event. Adults and school-age children also received the great looking tote bags.

Stan Weik, City Manager, read a proclamation signed by Mayor Ken Jordan, who was out-of-town for a previous engagement, declaring July 16, 2008 as Dove Project Appreciation Day. Jan Beaver was also recognized for her contribution of writing the Dove Project's first grant, which set the foundation and working structure for the program's objectives. Jan received a certificate and a San Saba Domestic Violence Taskforce t-shirt.

All who attended this celebration had a wonderful fun-filled time. Program representatives and attendees are already considering having a Funfair/Healthfair for next year!