Trenton Rotary Keeps Children Away from the Television

Nearly 300 children and adults made Saturday a day without television or video games at the 10th annual Turn Off the Violence Fun Fair put on by the Trenton Rotary Club at the Westfield Center.

The fun filled event kept children away from the television, video games, computers and other technological distractions from about 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and there wasn’t a single complaint in the house.

City Clerk and Trenton Rotary Club member Kyle Stack organized the event along with other Rotarians who volunteered their time to make sure the day went smoothly. Stack also booked the variety of talent that performed throughout the day.

There were six entertainers spanning from start to finish.

A magician named Jim Carmody kicked the day off and had children and parents alike laughing in their seats.

Carmody pulled children from the audience and let them participate in the act. He often played tricks on them, which drew big laughs from the audience.

While Carmody sleighed the audience in the main room a puppeteer mesmerized other children in large room at Westfield.

One of the most popular acts of the day was ventriloquist Richard Paul’s show called “I Feel Good.”

Paul used several puppets, including one with dark sunglasses named Eddie, and his own physical differences to help teach children tolerance.

The show was both funny and insightful and the audience responded in a big way.

Children also enjoyed Carey Ann's Clown Caravan, a juggler named Tim Salisbury a mime named Michael Lee and a presentation of karate by the Professional Karate Schools of America.

When not being entertained by great acts, children could do arts and crafts at the many tables set up by different event sponsors.

Some of the sponsors included the Downriver Youth Performing Arts Center, St. Thomas Episcopal Church and several others.

A clown named Trixie made balloon animals, hats and toys for the children, making balloon hats the favorite fashion piece of the day.

Nearly every child had their face painted or a long balloon hat or both.

Each participant was welcomed to enjoy hotdogs, chips and juice for lunch and popcorn was provided by Monroe Bank and Trust.

The Trenton Rotary Club will be holding their annual Winter Beach Blast event on Saturday and tickets are still available. Contact Kyle Stack for more information 734-675-8600.

Look for more pictures of the event in this week's Viewfinder on Thursday at 1 p.m.