Pima Butte Fall Festival generates fun, funds

Children and their parents dressed in their Halloween best for the Pima Butte Fall Festival Saturday afternoon, and raised an estimated $3,900 for the school in the process.

Students flocked to the carnival games including a ring toss, bean bag throw, scooter race, mini golf, a ball toss and a dunk tank.

Third grade student Ethan Chiglo was the first to dunk Vice Principal Danielle Record. After watching her splash into the water, Chiglo yelled a triumphant, “Yes!” as he ran back to his family.

On the other side of the fair, Brandon Balandron introduced himself to his new pet goldfish, which he won on his first try at the ball toss.

Students could also jump around in one of the three bounce houses, slide down the inflatable slide and get their faces painted. The festival included a concession stand with hot dogs, nachos, popcorn and cotton candy as well.

Besides a fun event, the festival will also bring in funds for the school. All proceeds from the ticket and concession sales will go back to Pima Butte.

A silent auction composed of donations from companies including McFarlane’s, Poco Loco and Heaven’s Best also helped generate additional revenue for the school.

“Everywhere I looked children were smiling and parents were happy so I definitely think it was a success,” Pima Butte’s principal, Matt Montoya, said of the 350-plus estimated attendees. ” It was a safe environment for kids to run around and have a good time in.”

Photos by Katie Winkley