88th Street Temple Church of God in Christ partnered with L.A. County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas to bring snow to the 89th Street and Vermont Ave. neighborhood on Jan. 5. The free event, Winter Wonderland 2019, drew many community members of all ages.
Both children and adults delighted in experiencing real snow along with enjoying a range of activities. The featured attractions included a petting zoo filled with rabbits, pigs, goats, chickens and a miniature pony; a Trackless Train, which rode guests around during the event; and taking family pictures at the Free Lance Photo Booth.
Pastor Anthony L. Williams and First Lady Bukeka Williams came up with the vision to produce the program and tapped Sherrie Smith Reese and Linda Bronson Abbott, both 88th St. Temple members, to turn the dream into reality.
“Many residents find themselves alone after the holiday season and I believed we could kick-off 2019 by serving our community with “Winter Wonderland 2019,” said Pastor Williams. “This was a positive, goodwill community event, bringing hope and new activities for all ages to enjoy!!”
In addition to Ridley-Thomas, event participants included L.A. County Fire Battalion Chief Mark Tolbert, L.A. County Fire Captain Ramon Valdivia, firefighters from Station 14 and Michelle Chamber. The vendors included Watts Health, who provided free blood pressure screening and dental items; LADOT Transit outreach team, WIC, Sparkle Girl Face Painting services, Allied Security Services, Rev. JJ and members of the South Bureau Ministerial Alliance.
Also, internationally renowned musician, Professor Iris Stevenson McCullough, provided live music through the voices of the Crenshaw High School’s elite gospel choir. Many additional talented children and youth performed as well.
“We are thankful that key community leaders, small business owners, community volunteers and faith leaders all came together to serve community residents within the Athens Neighborhood of Los Angeles County for Winter Wonderland 2019 Community Event,” added the pastor. “Everyone enjoyed the snow play area, in the heart of L.A.!”
88th Street Temple COGIC is located at 8825 S. Vermont Ave., in Los Angeles. To learn more, visit 88thstreettemple.org.
