Snowballs and a Sense of Community

Local families were treated to a fun-filled day of games, shows, and, most importantly, information at the annual Camp Blaze Children’s Fair this past weekend. 

Spread inside and outside of Arnold’s Big Vanilla, the event is a way for families to learn about the various resources in the area that will make them healthier and happier.

The event was the 25th anniversary of the fair, and founders Cheryl and John Carnwath were there to greet the vendors, sponsors, and attendees for yet another record attendance.

Considering the fact that the couple moved to California a few years ago, their continued presence serves as proof of their commitment to the cause.

“It really all started when Cheryl was a Lamaze coach in the 1980’s and her clients began asking her about resources for families once the babies were actually born,” explained John Carnwath. “We started out with some tables at Severna Park High School and just kept growing.”

Along with friends and neighbors, the Carnwaths formed Camp Blaze, a community-based, non-profit organization. Though not a "camp" in the traditional sense, the grassroots association sponsors activities for students and is made up of caring parents, civic leaders, supportive businesses and faith-based community organizations. 

Big Vanilla owner Larry Ray, who is also acting Chairman of Camp Blaze’s Board of Directors, was happy to once again have great weather for the event. “This is really a celebration of life for our community,” he said. 

He was also thankful for his staff who volunteered many hours to organize and take down the fair setup. “It took a lot of work to make this happen,” he said. “It is amazing this was all done in 24 hours.”

Fair sponsors also included Stewart & Labbe Orthodontics, Koons Toyota of Annapolis, The Law Offices of Peroutka & Peroutka, The Institute on the Constitution, Whole Foods, Anne Arundel Medical Center, WNAV, Dr. Nilda Collins & Associates, The Educational Resource Group, Vernon Pediatric Dentistry, and Severna Park Lanes.

As Carnwath greeted new attendees and old friends, he and wife Cheryl couldn’t hide the pride they felt when their efforts continue to improve the quality of life for families of Broadneck.

“We love it more every year,” said Carnwath. “We keep hearing stories about how coming here has changed someone’s life.”