Talking about parenting Lions members prepare for the carnival

Published 12:45 pm Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Chris Kovatch

Just as the hustle and bustle of the new school year begins to become routine, another force enters my family’s life. 

Carnival. 

That single word evokes childhood memories of fun and adult memories of either hot or wet days of putting rides together. Either way, they are happy memories and ones that I am grateful to have.

This year the Orange Lions Club will open its 79th carnival on September 25. The carnival has only been canceled two times in its history-once for war and the other due to Hurricane Harvey. 

The Lions members are a rare breed. They give so much of themselves to set up, run, and take this carnival down year-end and year out. Their lives go on the back burner and the carnival becomes their focus.

Did you know that the carousel is a 1954 model produced in San Antonio? The center of the carousel is made from the metal of surplus army tanks. Its serial number reads 00004. 

The Tilt-a-Whirl also has a storied past. It was once the centerpiece of a mom and pop carnival located in Times Square. The owners of the carnival eventually realized the value of the land they owned and closed the carnival down. 

Our members located the ride under 6 feet of snow in an Iowa cornfield. The ride was a move to Orange and overhauled for our carnival. 

Many more stories like this make of the colorful history of the carnival.

I can’t think of any other event that has more history in Orange County. Rides and games have graced the midway over the years and continue to evolve, but the carnival continues in its steadfast hold as part of the fall in our area.

While the carnival has had a rough run as of late due to Harvey in 2017 and biblical-level rain in 2018, the dedicated Lions continue to use the funds raised to serve our community. 

All money raised at the carnival is used to help our local community and Lions efforts worldwide. From providing eyeglasses to delivering Christmas Food Baskets to presenting scholarships, the Lions are focused on making our community a great place to live.

This group is made up of volunteers. So much work goes into putting together a safe and successful carnival and the help of these volunteers make it possible. 

I urge everyone to consider getting involved in a local Lions Club and being a part of this worthwhile event. I can’t of a better way than this to continue a tradition for future generations to enjoy!