Published February 10, 2005, in issue 0406 of The Hook

BY LAUREN BROOKS

For all of you who missed Groundhog Day last week, Punxsutawney Phil predicted six more weeks of winter. This prediction chilled the bones, particularly of parents weary of school cancellations and wintertime coughs and sneezes.

However, on Sunday, February 6, AlbemarleFamily magazine hosted a Fun Fair & Camp Expo at the Omni Hotel downtown, reminding kids and parents that warmer days are surely coming.

Thanks to over 80 exhibitors, live entertainment, and a keynote speaker, the day was a hit with both parents and kids. While grown-ups had a chance to get a head-start on camp shopping and meet local businesses that serve families, kids had a chance to play games, get their face painted, and win prizes.

In addition, to promote the importance of education, parents were encouraged to sign their child up for a $500 college savings bond drawing. And that's not all! The winner of the bond also earned a cash donation to the school of his or her choice.

Although the malevolent marmota predicted that lots more winter is coming, the AlbemarleFamily Fun Fair & Camp Expo offered a great way to shake off winter's glooms as well as prepare kids and parents for summer fun!

Just chillin': This African turtle, along with other cold-blooded friends, were a hit with all the kids.

Carol Elliott tells Hunter Morley about all the fun activities at Camp Blue Ridge in Montebello.

The sandbox rocks! David Blanton and Brady McCormick take a play break at the Millstone of Ivy booth. .

Clifford the dog: big, red, and huggable!

The people who make it happen: Cindy Marks, an employee of AlbemarleFamily magazine, helps Maria Santisteban and her children get started at the Fun Fair and Camp Expo.

The Atlantic Coast Athletic Club represents its summer camp with a 26-foot bungee run!

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