Written by SCOTT STANFIELD
Citizen staff
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Friday, 08 August 2008 |
Twins Nicole, left, and Shannon Kratt, 12, hang on tight as they spin around on the Sizzler during their visit to the PGX. (Citizen photo by David Mah)
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Their destination: a slide that dropped into a pool of water where they cooled themselves on a hot Friday at the Prince George Exhibition. Next up was Snoop Hog, Sir Hamelot and the rest of the pigs that tore through the sawdust course and dashed towards the finish line at Richard's Racers, a popular attraction during Kids' Day at the PGX.
Children 12 and under passed through the gates free of charge on Friday, which included a fireworks display and a midnight midway. But aside from the fun and games, there is also an educational component apparent at the 96th exhibition. For instance, the B.C. Dairy Foundation booth provides information about the importance of milk, and about standards for milk production, transport and processing.
"We're usually here with our milking cow," foundation representative Stephanie Wright said. "Just teaching kids about the dairy industry and how to milk the cow."
"Don't worry, this isn't real milk," said Susie, a nine-year-old Prince George girl obviously enjoying herself during the milking process.
Also on site is the B.C. Children's Hospital Foundation, which is campaigning for a new hospital in Vancouver. The plan is to replace the old Shaughnessy building with a state-of-the-art tower. As well, the Sunny Hill rehabilitation centre will move to the existing site.
"We're asking for kids' help in designing hospital rooms," said Alex Mitchell, who has received numerous designs from children at the PGX. She in turn will submit the drawings to hospital planners.
"It's really sweet to see the thought that people put into it. We've had all the whacky ideas. They want to make sure they get the biggest TV possible, to every computer game. One little guy wanted to have a nacho fountain. He was very specific about the types of cheese.
"No idea's too crazy," she added.
The hospital foundation booth also highlights some of its Miracle Kids, such as Forrester Baker, a Prince George boy who was treated for a genetic mutation that makes him susceptible to certain bacteria. The same mutation is suspected to have caused the death of Forrester's older brother Angus.
"We really like to show that we are a provincial facility," Mitchell said. "Last year, over 450 kids from Prince George visited the hospital. So it's nice to get the kids' input on what they would want, and make sure we do it right."
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Last Updated ( Friday, 08 August 2008 )
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