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Jamie Smith, tbnewswatch.com
Kids try the climbing wall Wednesday morning.
Keith Ahtila wanted to show his kids what his childhood community was like.
Just two months ago Ahtila’s East End childhood home, where his mother still lives, and his grandfather’s home were hit by the May 28 flood.
“It hits home,” he said. “It was my family home that was hit and my wife’s family home.”
On Wednesday, Ahtila and his family were celebrating with people from all over Thunder Bay at Minnesota Park as part of the Insurance Brokers Association of Northwestern Ontario’s Community Fun Day. The park had climbing, jousting and bouncing along with performers and a mobile skate park. It even included hot dogs, all for free.
“We really wanted to show the community that we’re all together,” event chair Mark Gleeson said. “Just a day off where everyone can take an opportunity to relax and enjoy the festivities.”
President Jeff Jones agreed.
“They need to get out and relax and enjoy the summer. It’s been a stressful time the last two months,” he said.
For Ahtila and his family of five, it’s also a way to show community spirit.
“Everyone bands together when stuff happens,” he said. “Everybody helps each other out.”