Easterseals Rehabilitation Center is preparing to make waves at the 2nd annual Ohio River Splashtacular at Wheeling Heritage Port from 12-4 p.m. Sunday, June 7.
Presented by Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration and the Ohio Valley Community Federal Credit Union, the free event features two shows performed on the Ohio River by the Chippewa Lake Water Ski Team, various hands-on science- and water-related activities, a foam party, food trucks, music, a boat display, and an historical exhibit.
In addition, a variety of raffles will be held to raise money for Easterseals. The Wheeling-based nonprofit relies on community donations to help fulfill its mission of creating life-changing solutions for children with developmental delays and disabilities through individualized medical rehabilitation therapies and services.
This year's grand prize is a $4,000 travel voucher from Uniglobe Travel, which can be used to book a trip anywhere in the world. The second prize is pair of kayaks, and third prize is a $1,000 Walmart gift card. Tickets are $20 and available at Easterseals, 1305 National Road, Wheeling. More ticket sales locations will be announced soon.
In addition to the grand prize drawing, there will be dozens of prizes up for grabs in the basket raffle — from overnight stays at Oglebay and Wheeling Island Hotel Racetrack Casino to jewelry to sports equipment — plus a 50/50 drawing.
Confirmed food trucks include Ideal Provisions, Cousin's Maine Lobster, Paleonardo's, Stalder Creamery, and So Nuts for Donuts. Party Pix Entertainment will provide a foam party and printed keepsake photos. The Wheeling Nailers will have their plinko game with free prizes.
Confirmed exhibitors providing hands-on activities include Wheeling Creek Watershed Alliance, Ohio County Solid Waste Authority, City of Wheeing Water Department, Schrader Environmental Education Center, Trout Unlimited, and the Captina Creek Conservancy.
The Ohio River Museum in Marietta, Ohio, which is currently closed as a new building is built, will set up a Wheeling-centric Ohio River history display inside Waterfront Hall. In between the ski shows, Robert and Libby Strong from SMART Centre Market will provide a science demonstration, and RJ Gaudio-Troubadour will play summer-themed music.
In addition, several vintage raceboats will be on display, the splash pad will be open, and additional activities are in the works.
Over 1,000 people attended last year's event despite a rainy morning and looming afternoon thunderstorms. Easterseals hopes many more will spend a summer afternoon enjoying the Wheeling waterfront, marveling at the feats of the water skiers, and learning how the river has shaped our community.
