Oh sure, former Texas governor Rick Perry was across the street at the Hotel Pattee to kick off his Freedom Ride with Rick to Boone Saturday. Sure, there were several genuine American war heroes tagging along. Yes, the young dogs with the Puppy Jake Foundation were cute (even if they could not be petted, as they were learning how to be service dogs).
All those motorcycles were kind of neat, too, and the mass of media present made for something of a crazy scene, but in the minds of many dozens of youngsters the real fun was on the south side of Wilils Street, opposite the big hotel.
That was where all the fun and excitement of third annual KidsFest went off in perfect weather, with laughter and smiles to be found at the Perry Public Library, the Carnegie Library, along the sidewalks and on Railroad Street, too.
The public library hosted a visit from the Blank Park Zoo from 10:30-11:30, and when the children were done there a trip over to the Carnegie Library meant a chance to see the big fire engine and other equipment being shown and explained by the Perry Volunteer Fire Department.
Inside the Carnegie Toby Twist created balloon figures, Twyla Brede painted faces and Plinko could be played. Crafts were on display at both libraries, with animals from the Forest Park Museum and Sugar Gliders present for all to see at the Carnegie.
Sidewalk Simon was held outside the public library, where caricturist Duane Murray showed his talents, while at the Carnegie the crowd was wowed by magician Jonathan May and his prestidigitation.
As the photos from the activities attest, a good time was certainly had by all.
