Hi, CV!

Orange Fest is two days away. Are you coming?

We begin the festivities at 2 p.m. in the county building at CV Park, 3901 Dunsmore Ave. I don’t want to forget to name anyone so I’m not going to list the people staffing the 20­odd tables. Some are serious, some are your friends, some are personally edifying, and all are worth your time. Go through, get your passport stamped, and you’ll be entered into a drawing for prizes. Also, bring your ancient, unwanted, unused medicines for safe, and anonymous, disposal. Bring your friends, your parents, and your mates. This portion of Orange Fest ends at 4 p.m.

How many of your kids read my column? I’m under the impression not many so forgive me if I’m wrong. Going on the assumption that I am right, would you mind showing them this article so they know what they’ll enjoy at Orange Fest, please?

Hi, Teens! Please arrive at Orange Fest between 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to give yourself time to get through the expo by 7. Stop by tables, talk, do an activity, compete against a friend – whatever – and then get a signature. If you get the required number of signatures, you get a wristband that entitles you to one free meal. Here is the menu – it’s quite kid­centric: tacos, fries, sliders, donuts and shaved ice. If you don’t get the wristband, or if you’re still hungry, you can still purchase food.

Every other activity is free! There will be carnival rides, a climbing wall, an obstacle course, a graffiti wall, a photo booth, air­brush tattoos, dodgeball, DJs, Ryder­Buck and the Breakers (!!!), musicians, and more! No parents at this carnival although there will be adult supervision. It’s a great way to welcome in the school year. And it’s a great way to introduce you to CV Youth Alliance, an on-campus club that meets at CVHS.

Orange Fest honors our color (orange) and its positive qualities. CV Alliance is about parents, youth and community. So Orange Fest is open to everyone. Why? When we all come together, you’re not alone.