FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Community members got in the Halloween spirit - equestrian style - Oct. 23 during the Fort Rucker Riding Stables' Terrorific Children's Festival.
Patrons, volunteers and warrant officer candidates offered hayrides, horse rides, games and other youth-oriented activities during the annual event.
Three-year-old Isabelle Kopp, who dressed up as a cowgirl, experienced a horse ride, which her mother said is one of her favorite activities.
"She loves horses. She loves to be outside and play games," said Jennifer Kopp. "It's a good event to meet with other Families and celebrate the Halloween holiday."
Other Families said they enjoyed the multitude of activities and chance to celebrate Halloween with a different twist.
"This festival is an opportunity to do something different. It's good the post is taking care of its own," said Juan Ortiz, who brought his daughters, Janely, 4, and Janissa, 8.
"When I'm gone training or on a deployment, it's nice knowing the Families have activities (like this one) to attend locally with a support group," said 2nd Lt. Michael Hollowell, B Company, 1st Battalion, 145th Aviation Regiment.
For some, the most important aspect was bonding over a shared interest.
"My Family attended to support the riding stables, and I liked the hayride," said Wyatt Collard, 12.
"We've never been to the stables before, but my kids have always grown up with horses," said Melissa Marrero. "This event brings the community together."
Warrant Officer Candidate Course Class 11-02 volunteered to run game booths as their community project.
"Hosting these events brings up morale and builds cohesion for Families. It's an opportunity to meet each other and network," said WOC Asha Porter.
She also said spending time with children was special to her, as she currently misses her 11- and 1-year-old children, who are living at her home station in Savannah, Ga.
The Riding Stables' next event is an adult haunted hayride Oct. 29 beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $7 in advance and $8 at the door.
For more information, call 598-3384.
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