It was all smiles at Dr. Festus Claybon Memorial Park as the 34th annual Dust Bowl Basketball Tournament began Saturday in Madisonville.
The smell of grilled pork chops, mutton and steaks filled the air as people from all walks of life came together to make memories.
“We’ve coached several of these boys out here,” said Sharon Tedder, who was at the Dust Bowl with her children, husband and brother-in-law.
Tedder served as an Amateur Athletic Union coach for years.
“It gives these boys an opportunity to show their talents, get out here and play and not be on the streets,” she said.
Elijahwone Moore, 28, said he has participated in the Dust Bowl for as long as he can remember.
“This is something that’s good for the community,” Moore said. “Everyone gathers around, there’s good fellowship, we eat and laugh. This is something that every kid in the community wants to get involved in.”
Idris White said he enjoys the diversity and camaraderie that the Dust Bowl has to offer.
“It brings people together — people from different states,” White said. “There are different cultures and different foods. This is a great thing for the youth and the community. Everybody gets along. People are here that haven’t seen each other in years.”
He said he likes seeing players come home to participate in the local event following college and professional careers.
“It’s good clean fun,” said Sallie Gray as she turned steaks on a grill to serve up to hungry patrons. “And it’s a week before school starts, so it’s something for the kids to do before classes begin.”
Tyce Jarvis, 9, traveled from Owensboro with his dad, who plays in the Dust Bowl each year.
“It’s one of his favorite things to do,” said Tyce.
The Dust Bowl continues today at 3 p.m. will games and free back-to-school haircuts. Free school supplies will also be given away around 5 p.m. while materials last.
An “old school” game will take place between the semi-final and championship match, and will feature teams of older players. Sign-ups are available at Claybon Park, which is located at the corner of Hopewell and Elm streets in Madisonville.
by Jenny Lee Menser
MESSENGER STAFF WRITER
jmenser@the-messenger.com