Kenny Thomas joins local officials at Holiday Park basketball event

City Councilor Dan Champine, representing District 8, joined NBA player Kenny Thomas and several city departments to host a Halloween event at Holiday Park Community Center on Saturday, October 31. The gathering, titled "Seasons of Nonviolence," was open to the public at no cost.

Zia Sports Academy managed a 3-on-3 basketball tournament that served as the central activity of the day. The competition included brackets for various age groups and skill levels. Participants played on the court while spectators watched from the surrounding outdoor areas.

Beyond the basketball games, attendees accessed free food trucks, face painting stations, and a bouncy house. Representatives from Albuquerque Fire & Rescue and the Albuquerque Police Department Crime Prevention Unit distributed promotional items and provided information on fire safety.

Inside the community center, staff from the Albuquerque Youth and Families Department and the Albuquerque Community Safety Department led a candy trail for children. The event took place under clear weather conditions, allowing for both indoor and outdoor activities throughout the afternoon.

Champine cited the high attendance as evidence of effective community collaboration. "This turnout demonstrates the value of community partnerships," Champine said. He also expressed gratitude to the staff members from Youth and Family Services and the Parks and Recreation Department who organized the logistics.

The event was sponsored by Bernalillo County, the City of Albuquerque Parks & Recreation, the Albuquerque Community Safety Department, Albuquerque Fire & Rescue, and the Albuquerque Police Department. The initiative encourages youth to pledge nonviolence and provides seasonal events for young people in the area.