Alaska News

Whoop it up at Rondy carnival

Carnival-goers can sip on their root beer floats, ride the new Ferris wheel and take a leap on the blanket toss -- all at the same time. Well, probably not at the same time.

Smells abound at the Golden Wheel Amusement Fur Rendezvous Carnival. From the sweet of the funnel cakes to the sweeter of the cotton candy, the food would make any carnival connoisseur lick his chops. Don't forget the country barbecue provided by Smokey Joe's.

One thing, though: I wouldn't take that warm caramel apple onto some of these rides. The Tornado will twist you right around, so please gain your footing before getting on. This ride has no mercy for the weak of heart, taking its passengers in circles high into the air, allowing for an interesting upside-down view of the carnival and any other nearby Rondy sights.

For a right-side-up view, ride 1001 Nachts, German for 1001 Nights. The ride, with a mosaic Aladdin background featuring a playful genie and grumpy tiger, won't spin you around or make you regret that extra piece of barbecue.

The kiddies will find plenty to entertain them with the traditional carousel -- but not the traditional winter carnival weather. Though the temperature is relatively balmy at the moment, a little wind makes a big different in the chill factor. Please, dress warmly.

To help keep warm, kids can run through the fun house with the wacky mirrors and rotating barrels -- no handstands allowed. Tykes can also ride the train, or test their aim at the ring toss equipped with recycled bottles of soda.

Susan Huffman of Eagle River brought her family to enjoy the festivities.

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"I remembered riding the same rides when I was 5. Now it's my kids' turn." Huffman is a mother of two, Lauren, 4, and Braydon, 5. Braydon liked one ride in particular.

"I liked the ring toss. Yep, the ring toss," said Braydon after asking for more money to continue playing. Braydon also rode the Super Slide, a tall order for some.

The blanket toss is another popular one with the kids, squealing and all. About 25 people hold up the mat while the rider sits cross-legged in the center. Then the countdown begins. One, two, three -- ahhhh! Some get tossed higher than others, but you can expect at least 6 feet of air. After the toss, everyone pats the mat and prepares for the next wailer.

Across the street, the ponies continue their everlasting trek. But no one has to venture far to view another equine friend: The horse-drawn carriages provide scenic views of downtown Anchorage.

For the more athletic, the carnival gives a chance to test their skills. A darts game and star shooting game require accuracy and precision. The best part, though, is the prizes. From monkeys of different colors and sizes to giant dogs, the game is on. The biggest award? A big, red dog. No, not Clifford.

Brad Snowden, at the basketball toss, has worked the carnival since the '70s. "This is a great place to do something with the family," he said.

"The carnival is a wonderful anchor for Fur Rondy. But dress warm."

Told you so.

Felix Rivera is a liberal studies major from Alaska Pacific University and intern at ADN.

By FELIX RIVERA

Special to the Daily News

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