Kid's Expo coming up

Apr. 4—CASA of Walker, San Jacinto & Trinity County will host their first All About Kids Expo on Saturday, April 20.

The brand new event is an opportunity for organizations, churches, and businesses to share with parents and families the activities and services they offer for kids in the community, according to CASA Development Director Laura Green.

"CASA is excited to host a brand NEW event," Green said. "The event is designed to learn about local options for education as six schools, both public and private, will be represented."

Green added that several churches will give guidance on the youth programs they offer and will share about their summer VBS programs as well.

"As we move into the summer months, Summer Camps will be available to provide insight concerning the enrollment process along with the activities they have for different age groups," Green said. "Several athletic leagues will explain the when, where and how to sign up to play. For example, youth baseball & football, karate, golf and volleyball, to name a few, will all be represented."

The arts are covered, too! Representatives from dance, youth orchestra, art workshops, floral workshops, construction workshops and so many more will share their info and provide opportunities at the event to create.

The community will have a chance to learn more about children's health services to include vaccinations and physicals, counseling services, chiropractic, and dental. Financial service groups will provide information on setting up a college fund for children and piggy banks will be distributed with info on how to set up a child's savings account.

"Outdoor activities, 4-H, parks and recreation, the state park (with a live baby alligator), Trail Life USA, American Heritage Girls, Scouts, the Bluebird Society and more will also be present," Green said.

The event will also host kid's birthday party venue and rental ideas.

Huntsville Police Department will have info on bicycle safety and Huntsville Fire Department will provide info on fire safety. Stop by to learn more and see and touch the fire truck and squad car.

In addition to all of this, a Kids Fun Zone will offer a rockwall, bounce houses, children's train, face painting, archery, balloon artist and more.

"There will be so many fun things for children to participate in for free," Green said.

There will also be a jewelry design contest, according to Green. The contest is open to all young artists, ages 5 — 12. Kids can turn their artwork into a custom piece of jewelry, thanks to Elliott's Jewelers.

"Parents can enter their child's masterpiece to win could become a one-of-a-kind design valued up to $2,500," Green said. "Just in time for Mother's Day."

Entry fee is only $5 per entry and the deadline is April 22. Go to www.casaofwalkercounty.org for a complete list of rules and information and be sure to stop by the Jewelry Design Contest Booth at the Expo.

A Food Zone will feature all the festival favorites like Mexican Food, Burgers, Hot Dogs, Pizza, Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches, Grilled Cheese, Kettle Korn, Funnel Cakes, Cotton Candy, Sno Cones and more. These selections will certainly keep your tummies full.

The Title Sponsor, Huntsville ISD, has been key to making the inaugural event happen, according Green.

The Huntsville Church of Christ, the location sponsor of the event, will be hosting the event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the large parking lot located at 3737 Highway 30.

"Stop by the Showcase Area, sponsored by Huntsville Toyota, will feature performances," Green said.

The HISD's Buzzy, SHSU Sammy Bearkat and HEB Buddy will all be at the Expo at 10:30 a.m. and will be available for photos. Offsite parking will be available for free with shuttle service. Parking is available at Alpha Omega Academy, Faith Lutheran Church, Fellowship of Huntsville, and Huntsville Nazarene Church with shuttle service to the event from 8:50 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Shuttle Service leaving the event will operate 9:30 a.m. to approximately 4:30 p.m. The shuttle driveway will also be available for guests who would like to privately drop-off or pick-up family and friends.

To follow updated info about the event, go to Facebook under All About Kids Expo — CASA.

Contact Brenda Poe at editor@itemonline.com