Published: August 17, 2006 10:55 am      

Event will boost Chapman complex

By APRIL TOLER

april.toler@register-news.com

MT. VERNON — For the past three years, the Chapman Sports Complex, in Woodlawn, has been a testimony to what a small community can do with a big idea.

And as the complex continues to grow, the Woodlawn Community Foundation continues to look for funds and volunteers to keep the complex growing.

As part of a fund raising effort, the foundation is hosting a Dinner and Music Festival 4 p.m. Saturday at the sports complex.

Sherry Williams, Woodlawn Community Foundation president, said the event is a great way for people to take a break from their busy work weeks, relax and enjoy live music and good food.

“It’s inexpensive, it’s a nice evening, it’s comfortable, and with the recent storms and all the hard work, they (the community) need a night out to sit back and relax.”

The event is set to feature 13 local musicians who will perform from 5 to 9 p.m. Dinner will be served from 4 to 7 p.m. and consists of smoked pork chops and all the fixings prepared by Steve Earhardt. All activities will be conducted under tents to protect people from the heat.

At 4 p.m., little league players and coaches will also receive their awards for the season.

“We definitely want to honor those who played ball and worked so hard,” Williams said.

This is the fourth event of its kind but the first time it has been held at the complex. Williams said the foundation, which usually holds the event at the Woodlawn High School, decided to change things up this year and hold it at the event they work so hard to develop.

The complex was built three years ago and is named after Catherine and the late William, “Junior,” Chapman, long time staples in both little league and the community.

The Chapman’s started the first little league in the town almost 50 years ago for their children and coached it for 14 years.

In honor of the couple’s commitment to the sport, individuals, organizations and businesses throughout the community have donated both the funds needed to build the complex and their time.

“I am overwhelmed with response we’ve had and the help we’ve had with the community and businesses," Williams said. “This is a very large effort in a very small community.”

This year the foundation plans to finish building walking trails around the complex and future plans include batting cages, playground equipment and possibly soccer fields and tennis courts.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Parents who only want to attend the awards ceremony will not have to pay to attend. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the First National Bank of Woodlawn, Woodlawn Shell and Newell Furniture or by calling 246-8783, 735-2155, or 246-2914.

Tickets will also be sold at the door. Attendants are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs.