Ringing in 2022 at the Ohio Valley Mall | News, Sports, Jobs

T-L Photo/ROBERT A. DEFRANK
Events culminate in a balloon drop as parents and their children usher in the New Year early Friday during the “Noon Year’s Eve” bash at the Ohio Valley Mall.

ST. CLAIRSVILLE — Families gathered at the Ohio Valley Mall on Friday afternoon to ring in the new year early with a “Noon Year’s Eve” celebration put on by the Sunrise Rotary Club of St. Clairsville.

The organization has been active in community outreach through the COVID-19 pandemic and welcomed the opportunity to provide a family-friendly fun event to close out 2021 and start 2022 off on the right foot.

Rotarian John Tomlan said this was the second event, with the first being held in 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic canceled any plans for 2020.

“We were concerned that with COVID we couldn’t expect a lot, but the turnout’s been fine,” he said.

“It’s going very well,” Rotarian Jeff Vaughn said. “Last year we didn’t do it because of COVID. We had started it two years ago. So far, we’re very pleased with the participation today.”

Vaughn said more than 300 children participated.

“It’s nice that people want to get out and get around. I think over the long holidays, parents with young children see them climbing the walls a little bit so they’re happy to get out and do something,” Vaughn said.

“We’re happy to do it. It’s’ a great turnout in a safe and fun environment for the kids,” George Diab, manager of the Ohio Valley Mall, said.

He pointed out attractions including obstacle courses, face painting, balloon artists and crafts. Diab added that many visitors were happy for the opportunity to get out and gather for an event.

Magician Michael Strough also performed various tricks, culminating in an escape from a straightjacket in under one minute.

“The kids really enjoy it,” Kirke Porterfield of the Noon Rotary Club said. “Last year they couldn’t do it, and this year they’re back in business. It gives the kids a good time.”

“It’s awesome. It’s a lot of fun for the kids and great for the community,” Nicole Cataldo of Edge Fitness in St. Clairville said.

Her husband, Don, gave sparring lessons to young children.

“We’re a pretty new gym and it’s great getting out and meeting people,” she said.

“It’s so fun for the kids. It’s a great event,” Amanda Duvall of Bellaire said.

Her son, Mason, joined in a sparring match through Edge Fitness. Duvall added the event was a welcome chance for activity.

“We did it the year before (2020),” Duvall. “It’s very great.”

“They enjoy it,” Amy Caniff of Bridgeport, another participating mother, said.

The bash culminated with a balloon drop. Dozens of children joined in popping or collecting the balloons.

Following the balloon drop at noon, there was a drawing of $50 gift cards for five children.