Keystone Chapter, Associated Builders & Contractors Inc. (ABC Keystone) held its 15th annual Construction Rodeo Sept. 25, on the grounds of its facility in Manheim, Pa.

Rodeo events included picking up and transferring eggs with a backhoe, driving a skid steer through an obstacle course, putting a ball into a barrel with a crane, among others.

Other events included:

• A nail driving contest;

• Craft competitions feature apprentices from ABC member companies;

• Kids’ activities, such as an inflatable slide, remote-controlled construction equipment, peg driving competition and more. Junior and senior high school students could participate in a construction obstacle course;

• Interactive family safety area featuring a smoke trailer and fire extinguisher training;

• The “Celebrity Backhoe Competition” featuring local radio and TV personalities, along with state legislators, working a backhoe to complete a task, with a professional coach to guide them; and

• Food was available for a donation to Make-A-Wish at full concession stands; door prizes also were distributed throughout the day.

“Parents bring their children to the rodeo, and everyone has a great time,” said John “Jack” R. Zimmer, CAE, ABC Keystone Chapter president and CEO. “It’s always a fun-filled day, with loads of activities for all ages. The bonus is that this event raises money for two wonderful causes; Make-A-Wish and our own Merit Shop Scholarship Fund.”

Proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which helps terminally ill children realize their dreams, and the Merit Shop Scholarship Fund, which assists students seeking to pursue careers in construction. Total money raised for Make-A-Wish since the first Rodeo in 1996 is more than $338,000. Total money raised for the Merit Shop Scholarship Fund is more than $25,000.

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