Published: June 14, 2009 02:10 am      

PHOTO GALLERY: Rib Fest 2009

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There was something for everyone downtown Saturday at the Carver Community Center’s ninth annual Rib Fest on the Courthouse square.

While most people were sampling the varieties of tasty ribs, kids played on inflatable bouncers and Moonwalks, others mingled, listened to the many bands and watched the hoops action. Though dark clouds rolled in just before the event began, the rain held off, allowing festival goers to enjoy a dry evening.

“I think it’s a nice event and gets people out of the house that usually would stay in on a cloudy day,” said Darrell Hicks, as he sampled Mrs. Mary’s ribs.

“This is the first time I’ve had these,” he said of the ribs. “I’ll probably go back and try somebody’s else’s next. I just hope the rain holds off.”

Along with Mrs. Mary’s Southern Cooking, Applebee’s, Grindstone Charley’s, Half Moon Restaurant and Brewery, Ruby Tuesday, Backyard Bar-B-Que and the Olde Oak Door provided the eats.

“The weather is nice and the food was wonderful,” said Mamie Barrett as she and her husband, John, enjoyed the festival. “At least it’s not real hot.”

“I may have to get some ribs to go from Mrs. Mary’s before we leave,” John said.

Mrs. Mary’s offerings seemed to be a crowd favorite, as people lined up to get a sample of her tasty ribs.

“We have ribs, rib tips and pulled pork,” said Wilbur Reaves, Mrs. Mary’s husband.

Asked what their secret is, he pointed to his wife and shrugged his shoulders.

“I don’t tell, I just keep making them,” Mary Reaves said with a smile, as she dished up some barbecue goodness to a waiting customer.

While the crowd was not what event organizers expected, Paul Wyman, the title sponsor, said he hoped the crowds would pick up as the night progressed. The event lasted until midnight.

“I’m enjoying the smells,” said Wyman, who added he was looking forward to participating as one of the judges of Rib Fest.

“... This is a great event for the Carver Center to help them fund the programs for the kids. If the weather holds off, we will be in good shape.”

Wyman was right. By 7:30 p.m., as the sun peaked through the clouds, the streets of downtown were packed.

Proceeds from Rib Fest are used to support Youth and Family Program initiatives, center operations, and ongoing structural and emergency repair projects at the center.

Carver Center is a non-profit organization and a United Way-funded agency that aims to promote education, health and well being throughout a diverse community. The center provides youth and adult sports and wellness programs, learning activities, before- and after-school care, tutoring, mentoring, and services to senior citizens.

While the ribs kept most people content, the crowd by the basketball goal on the east side of the Courthouse grew as the action on the court heated up.

For the second year in a row, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament provided some early entertainment for Rib Fest goers.

“We’re just trying to keep the crowd engaged and give them some good basketball entertainment,” said Arnold Stone, a three-year member of the Rib Fest Board of Directors.

“It’s been successful in drawing crowds and providing entertainment for the early crowd.”

• Mike Fletcher is the Kokomo Tribune crime reporter. He can be reached at (765) 454-8577 or mike.fletcher@kokomotribune.com.