The annual event funds scholarships and organizations supported by the Southwick Firemen’s Association.
Southwick Fire Department Emergency Medical Technician Katie A. O'Meara prepares an order of fried dough at the Southwick Firemen's Association Carnival on opening day Thursday.By MANON L. MIRABELLI
SOUTHWICK – The town’s annual carnival opened Thursday missing several of the larger, regular attractions, but despite the disappointment, the three-day event still promises to unite and support the community that turns out for it year after year, organizers said.
The Southwick Firemen’s Association carnival is a long-standing tradition that funds scholarships, local organizations and provides the fire department with firefighting and ambulance equipment through the proceeds derived from food sales and a percentage of the gross earnings from carnival rides and games.
A parting of ways between business partners of All About Fun amusements, a Groveland company, resulted in a last-minute change in plans that left the carnival without large, mechanical rides, Firemen’s Association President Brian Schneider said.
All About Fun owner Cheryl A. Mallory said the family-owned business was still able to provide large inflatable attractions such as a bounce house and slide, as well as two toddler rides, games and cotton candy.
In addition to the loss of the rides, Schneider said, the carnival was dealt another blow when town officials canceled the planned fireworks display that traditionally ends the event on Saturday night, and helicopter rides, another regular custom, will not be available this year because the aircraft was hit by lightning.
“We will have the parade on Saturday at 6 p.m. and we’ll have live entertainment Friday and Saturday night,” Schneider said. “Orange Crush will play Friday night starting at 7 p.m., and Pride Falls will play Saturday at 7 p.m.”
He added that visitors will not be disappointed by the freshly cooked fried dough prepared and served by fire department personnel, as well as the large baked potatoes available at the ladies auxiliary booth.
On Friday, Schneider said, a mechanical bull will be delivered to the carnival grounds behind Powder Mill Middle School on Powder Mill Road, and human bowling will also be available.
“We’ll have rides for toddlers, great food, live music, new games, the parade and family fun,” he said.