First Annual Hug-A-Thon Raises $800 For Giving Project

Exzavier Beal, 7, of Shawnee, hugs his mom, Kayla Beal, to make a "Forever Hug" with his arms painted white and hers blue during the First Annual Hug-A-Thon held at Woodland Veterans Park on Aug. 3. Also shown, recording the moment, is Exzavier's aunt, Rita Beal. Countywide & Sun/Natasha Dunagan
Exzavier Beal, 7, of Shawnee, hugs his mom, Kayla Beal, to make a "Forever Hug" with his arms painted white and hers blue during the First Annual Hug-A-Thon held at Woodland Veterans Park on Aug. 3. Also shown, recording the moment, is Exzavier's aunt, Rita Beal. Countywide & Sun/Natasha Dunagan

Imagine a family reunion where every hug left an impression - not just on your heart but on your shirt. These “Forever Hugs” were the centerpiece of the First Annual Hug-A-Thon.

Olivia Rawlins, a Tecumseh junior, was on hand with a variety of acrylic paint colors to roll onto hands and forearms. Once both parties were painted their favorite color, they shared a hug that would last in physical form …