A huge water slide with children slipping up and splashing down was a signal that something fun was happening at Kalaheo Missionary Church on a hot summer afternoon. A Kidz Karnival for children and families was the summer event of
A huge water slide with children slipping up and splashing down was a signal that something fun was happening at Kalaheo Missionary Church on a hot summer afternoon.
A Kidz Karnival for children and families was the summer event of the church’s year-long celebration of 60 years of service to the community.
The carnival gave the church a chance to “re-focus,” said Eileen Taba, chairperson for the event.
“We’ve been here so long, people don’t notice us anymore,” said Pam Gingrich, chairperson for the overall 60-year celebration.
The event opened with Pastor Ed Buller being the target of a water balloon burst game.
“It was my baptism,” Buller said.
He arrived from Canada a month ago and used the opportunity to meet the community.
The carnival brought together more than 100 church members who volunteered to set up, prepare, run the various game and food booths and assist with parking.
Participants were greeted with a photo op booth alongside a tent filled with balloon animal creators. Adults and youths deftly twisted long balloons into any animal shape desired to the delight of the little children.
Children had an array of free games from which to choose. They could craft sand key chains or fold origami paper. They could launch water balloons with sling shots, try their hand at being sharp shooters and climb a wall with pegs. They could get temporary tattoos, jump around in bouncers and even ride a pony. Prizes were awarded for being good, better and best. There was also the fish pond where everyone was assured of hooking a prize.
Sally Desai said her daughter, Milana, wanted to play with Jasmine Hine. Hine’s mother Minde suggested they all attend the carnival. They were all having a great time, Desai said.
The next event in the church’s celebration will be a Country Fair on Oct. 14. Gingrich said their fairs were known throughout the island and people looked forward to them. They haven’t done one in a number of years, and decided to resurrect it for one last time, she said.
The fair will feature hand-made and quilted items, a 60th anniversary cook book and a plant sale.
• Cynthia Matsuoka is a freelance writer for The Garden Island and former principal of Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School. She can be reached by e-mail at aharju@kauaipubco.com.
