Children's Carnival for Charity Draws a Big Crowd

Katonah - Predictions of snow accumulations of up to three inches for last Saturday made the organizers worry the crowds would be sparse, or worse, the Children’s Carnival for Charity would have to be cancelled, but when the snow didn’t come, the crowds did. And, the carnival, sponsored by the Harvey School’s Community Service Club, was a huge success in its second year.

Club co-advisor Susan Harris reports that this year’s event netted over $2,000, and the two charities, Habitat for Humanity and The Reading Village will split the proceeds 50-50. “It turned out to be a great day for everyone, the kids, their parents, the volunteers who worked the carnival, and, of course, the two charities that will benefit from the proceeds,” Harris said.

From the moment you drove on the Harvey campus, there was a carnival atmosphere as batches of red, yellow and blue balloons decked the signposts and railings along the entrance road to the school grounds. Carter Hall, decked with more balloons and streamers, was filled with families buying raffle tickets and enjoying the lavish spread of food in the cafeteria. Hot dogs and chili were the favorites for lunch fare, but all the baked goods were popular for snacks and treats.

On the way to the gym for the main attractions, there was a workshop on making Valentine cards and another on learning Spanish through song. Also popular were the dress-up photo booth and the hair and nail salon. In the school’s library there was story time and crafts for the youngest children. In the school’s Lasdon Theater, there were dance workshops, juggling demonstrations, and a dance party complete with a glittering ball overhead.

In the gallery of the Walker Center for the Arts, Habitat for Humanity and The Reading Village set up booths along with Ubuntu, the organization that helps children with AIDS in Africa.

But the loudest and most crowded place on campus was the gym which was filled with children enjoying bouncy stations, carnival games, spin art, candy art, and other amusements. The Fan Van Crew of The Peak, 107.1 FM, provided the music and distributed giveaways.

Jeff and Rachel Silva of Somers said their two children were having a great time. Jennifer Zeyer of Ridgefield, Ct came for the second year in a row. “This is a lot of fun for kids,” she said.

Susan Harris predicts next year’s carnival will be even bigger and better as the Community Service Club looks forward to being able to use the much larger athletic center which is currently under construction and expected to open in the fall.