'Party in the Park' Cove Cause for Cancer Brings Community Together

A day of fun, entertainment and food helped support cancer patients in the area.

Cove Cause for Cancer held "Party in the Park" Saturday, Aug. 21, in Morrisons Cove Memorial Park from 2 to 11 p.m. not only to raise money for cancer patients, but to also bring the community together.

Travis Russell is president of the organization. He said they had done a similar event in 2019, but were unable to in 2020 due to the pandemic.

Within the three years that they have worked, they have raised almost $30,000 for patients in Blair and Bedford counties. They work directly with UPMC Altoona and the Bob Perks Fund.

"It really means a lot that we are able to do so much for others," Russell said.

The organization has been planning the event since February, despite some hurdles.

"We weren't sure how much we would be able to do," Russell said. "But we think people were ready to get out and enjoy themselves."

Vendors were invited to set up at the park for free.

"We just want to help them get their name out," Russell said.

Woodbury Cafe and Smoky Pig brought food and treats. There were also craft, jewelry and clothing vendors. Raffle baskets were also auctioned off.

Debbie Moyer was one of the vendors at the event. Her business, D & B Crafts, featured different floral arrangements and wreaths.

"I got into it during the pandemic as a way to pass time," she said. "This seemed like the perfect time to come and sell."

"Party in the Park" also featured live entertainment. "The Cove's Got Talent" began at 5 p.m. and featured various acts from local participants.

Music was provided by artists including James Grove, Bone Jacked, The Lawn Darts and The Pines.

For the children, a bounce house was set up from 3 to 7 p.m. There was also a rock wall and a glow in the dark pool party.

Russell said they were all thankful especially to Morrisons Cove Memorial Park for holding the event.

"They have let us use the park for a lot, so we really want them to know they mean a lot to us," he said.

Aside from "Party in the Park," Cove Cause for Cancer has also held chicken barbecues and bingo nights.

As of now, the organization does not know how much they made from the event, but will post it when totaled.

To learn more about Cove Cause for Cancer, visit their Facebook page or their website https://covecause4cancer.org/.

Donations can be made by emailing covecause4cancer@outlook.com or calling (814) 312-3297.