The talent of kids from Hot Springs Elementary School was on display Thursday as the local Parent Teacher Organization held a Family Fun Night carnival in the gym. Held twice a year, the event served as a means to celebrate and share the gifts of kids with an aptitude for performance.

The carnival kicked off with a magic show from Evan Norgaard who made the crowd “ooh” and “ahh” with his illusions.

“Leave the Pieces” by The Wreckers sung by Laneya Miller and Savannah Roosma was followed by “Yakety Yak” and “Lava Lamp” on piano by Caitlynn Myton.

“Even if it Breaks Your Heart” sung by Claire, Elena, and Jack McAllister with Nick playing the spoons was followed by an impassioned version of Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb” performed by Ariah Erny.

The crowd of about 100 residents stood for “The Star Spangled Banner” sung by Lauryn Aldridge. The show was brought to a conclusion with a solo from Savannah Roosma and a lively song and dance number from a trio of talented ladies, Sage and Sydney Jackson and Brianna Gray.

Colorful artwork was also on display from Savannah Elk as the carnival continued with games and a raffle. As cotton candy spun and the smell of popcorn wafted through the air, Superintendent Kevin Meredith monitored the inflating of the bounce house.

The dragon shaped head of the inflatable structure reached almost to the ceiling of the gym as kids lined up to launch themselves in the air. Games such as a bean bag toss, putting out candles with a water gun, and miniature basketball lined the walls of the gym as kids inevitably worked their way back around to the line for the bounce house.

“The Hot Springs PTO has been organizing Family Fun Nights for a number of years and continues to be a major supporter of the school. The talent show and carnival was well attended with many great student performances,” said Meredith.

The carnival was organized by the PTO with help from President Lori Heidegger. The PTO meets the first Wednesday of the month and for their next big project will be working on improving the elementary school playground.