Thank you to Vicki Minor of the Winterset Madisonian for this coverage of our event on February 18th!
Here is the link to the article online: McFable goats shine at local Valentine’s Day event
A Valentine’s Day Bingo Blitz took place on Friday, Feb. 14, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Winterset’s newest venue, sponsored by The Warehouse on 2nd and Zombie Hollow, which provided a delightful sensory-friendly experience for the special needs students in the Winterset High School classes taught by Josh Henry and Madilyn McNamara.
Michelle McNamara, owner of McFable Farms and organizer of the event, explained that “sensory friendly” means the hosts have created an environment that won’t over-stimulate or stress individuals.
“We create a welcoming atmosphere free from loud noises and flashy lighting, ensuring a safe and enjoyable space for our guests,” she stated. McNamara noted that they have also invited Special Olympics athletes and residents of assisted living homes to similar celebrations.
“We aim to give people the chance to celebrate with others who sometimes don’t get that opportunity,” McNamara added.
The event included cookie decorating. Each participant received frosting and glitter to create their delicious treats, along with a candy jar to embellish with their artistic flair. In the past, guests have decorated pumpkins, used sparklers, hunted Easter eggs, and planted flowers during the holidays.
The majority of the guests who participated in the Valentine’s Day event at The Warehouse on 2nd commented that it was the best holiday bash ever. What’s not to love about decorating cookies, playing bingo, sharing artistic abilities with crafts, and cuddling two days old baby goats? Madisonian photo/Vicki Minor
“We like to give them a variety of things to do so they get excited about attending each event,” McNamara remarked.
Participant Angela Jones said, “This was the best Valentine’s Day ever,” as she took a bite of the cookie decorated with pink frosting.
Sitting at the same table, Nicole Banks, who works for Imagine the Possibilities, mentioned, “I’m having a blast at the McFable Farm bingo. I’m enjoying every single minute of it,” even though she was not a winner during the game.
Terry Livesay echoed everyone’s sentiments as he was interviewed while decorating a candy jar.
Two adorable baby goats, a recent addition to McFable Farms, made their way to participate in the festivities. Although they showed no interest in decorating cookies or playing games, the two kids enjoyed snuggling with each guest willing to hold them tightly in their comforting fleece blankets.
Valentine’s Day Bingo Blitz volunteers Kristi Willis, McFable Farm founder Michelle McNamara, Kathy McKee, Jessie Lowry, and Patty Weeks shared the love with their guests as they helped them with cookie decorating, bingo and crafts. Madisonian photo/Vicki Minor
“These goats were a gift from a generous family near Creston who supports our efforts at the farm. Berklie is a light brown female born on Feb. 9, and Knox is a multi-colored male born on Feb. 11. These two are already stealing hearts,” said McNamara.
Animals are always the stars of the show at McFable Farm. Guests love spending time with them, and the game of Bingo is always a favorite. The game is tailored to the event, and participants can take home small prizes that add an extra layer of excitement.
McFable Farm, a care farm providing a safe environment for youth and adults to decompress and focus on self-care, is located south of Winterset at 2695 Carver Rd. Looking ahead, several events are on the horizon. In April, they will host an Easter Egg Hunt, and in May, they will hold an open-to-the-public event so members of the community can experience what the farm is all about.
“At McFable Farm, we believe in the healing power of animals, and we are proud to offer free animal hugs to all our visitors. Every event is offered at no cost to our guests, made possible by the generosity of our amazing sponsors and donors,” McNamara said.
