Crescent-News.com - Malinta church hosts first street fest

By JACK PALMER

palmer@crescent-news.com

MALINTA -- A small Henry County congregation is reaching out in Christian love to area residents by sponsoring its first-ever street fest Saturday from 4-9 p.m. in Malinta.

"We plan to block off Adams Street and have an evening of family fun, games, food, and music by four different groups," said Pastor Kathy Currier of Malinta Memorial United Methodist Church. "We have planned this as an outreach to the community and surrounding communities."

Christian music will be provided by Sons of the Old West, Zion United Methodist Praise Band, John Galbrith, and Ryan Rolf and his sister, Kristen Krueger.

"Sons of the Old West is from Napoleon, and the other musicians are from Fulton County," said Elaine Krueger, the event's coordinator. "Our church has been thinking about doing this for about three years. We got the idea from Oasis Christian Church, which has sponsored the same type of event in downtown Wauseon for several years."

Planning for the street fest began in earnest last February.

"The village officials have been very supportive," said Krueger. "They had no problem whatsoever in closing off Adams Street."

Echoing Currier's comments, Krueger said the goal is to reach out to other people beyond the church walls.

"There will be something for people of all ages," she said. "There will be face painting, a variety of games and free hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn. We invite everyone to come out and enjoy the music, fun and fellowship."

Malinta Memorial United Methodist Church is located at 107 Henry St. For more information about the congregation and its programs, call the church office at 419-533-2881.