The Washington Optimist Club looks forward to its newest event

On Oct. 19, the Washington Parks Department and Washington Optimist Club will be showing “Wonder” in the park and hosting food trucks at the Washington Fairground, the movie starting at dusk and the food trucks available from 5-8 p.m.

The Night Club group, a club within the original Optimist Club, began planning this event in April, and many obstacles have been thrown in their path, but their hard work and determination allowed them to succeed.

“Their idea has just grown since then. The biggest obstacle along the way has been with communication,” Optimist Club of Washington president Chris Marquart said.  “Some food trucks are quick to respond with a verbal commitment, but then trying to gather all the required pieces (proof of liability insurance, health inspection, City of Washington business license) has taken time.”

The idea of the event was presented by Four Rivers Career Center instructor and Optimist member Curt Beers.

“He saw a need to help students and knew that Washington has not had a food truck event,” Marquart said.

Representatives from the police, fire and ambulance departments will be there to play games such as corn hole and hillbilly golf. First responders will also show kids the vehicles they use every day to help the community.

“They plan to bring as many different vehicles as they are able,” Marquart said. “They want to continue to build their great relationship with the community and youth.”

Food trucks attending the event include Daddy O’s Cheese Steaks, Sweet Cravings Cupcakes, Slice of the Hill, Wingnut, Heavy Smoke, Big Boys and a soft serve ice cream truck. And while this is the first time the Optimist Club will hold an event like this, they are already planning more. 

“We will hold a food truck event in June, July, September and October of 2019,” Marquart said. “These specific dates are not yet determined. We will again partner with the City of Washington Parks Department.”

After the event, the earnings will go to the Four Rivers Career Center students.

“Proceeds will benefit students with fees associated with student organizations like SkillsUSA,” Marquart said. “These fees can be very costly for students and families, especially if students are participating at national levels.”

More upcoming events include Breakfast with Santa and the Grinch Dec. 1 and The Christmas Tree lot Nov. 23. The Optimist Club will also participate in the Festival of Trees, adopt a family from Loving Hearts, donating formula to Pregnancy Assistance Center and much more.   

“Every activity the Optimist Club of Washington holds,” Marquart said, “benefits the youth in our community.”