Gospel music, kids’ activities and every kind of sweet potato dish imaginable were all part of the Butler County Optimist Club’s Annual Sweet Potato Festival last Saturday at the Butler County Fairgrounds.

“We’ve had a good day, even though the numbers have been down,” said Optimist member Willie Mae Robinson.

“Americorps volunteers have been helping us with children’s activities like crafts, coloring and face painting and we’ve had representatives from the Sheriff’s Department doing ID kits with the kids, too.”

Youngsters also got to show off their skills during a hula hoop contest.

A number of vocalists and bands including Zachius Powell serenaded attendees with soulful gospel sounds during the day while folks lined up for the fish sandwiches being prepared out back. Contestants for the annual kings and queens of the festival included Noah Ray, Christian Jones, Jamalle C. Smith, Robert Howard, I.V. McKee, Artillay Moorer, Kendra Robinson, Damaysia Smith and Malaysis Smith, Carrie Thomas, CeeKiria Gregory, Shaterika Rudolph and Amariya Blackmon.

Monies raised through festival program ads and the event itself go to support the annual Oratorical Contest, Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, student tickets for GAAC performances, and other community project