O'Donnell Heights Family Health Fair
Yesterday, the Baltimore AMP set up a table at the O'Donnell Heights Family Health Fair. Now, some of you may remember last October when we participated in the O'Donnell Heights Family Fun Day. We had set up a rhythm circle and art table for the kids... that event was a blast so I knew we were in for a treat with yesterday's health fair.
This year, we expanded the rhythm circle include handmade instruments to get the kids more involved in the process. First we had the kids decorate bags so they would have a place to keep their handmade music projects...
Then, using all sorts of neat noise-making elements, the kids decorated and filled recycled plastic bottles to make their own, personal instruments...
After the kids made their personalized instruments, they headed over to the rhythm circle to test out their musical talents. Baltimore AMP staff played guitar, bass and percussion to get a base rhythm going for the kids. It didn't take long for the kids to join in and get in the rhythm...
While some played their handmade instruments, many opted to test out the arsenal of more traditional noise makers that we brought...
Recognizing the musical talents of these kids, our director, Carla, promised the kids that if they played loud enough that something 'BIG' would happen. Carla had a special treat in store for the kids. She arranged, through the Baltimore Police Department, for a BPD Helicopter to land in O'Donnell Heights!
Talk about a 'BIG' treat!
The chopper and its crew made a few circles above us and even joined in our rhythm with its siren!
The chopper could barely land before the kids (and many adults) were lined up to get on board. What an awesome crew to take time out of their day allow these kids a chance to sit in a real helicopter!
The crew was even nice enough to pose for a quick photo with the kids...
What a fun day! Thanks so much to the O'Donnell Heights Community for inviting us to participate in the health fair and to the Baltimore Police Department for treating us, err, I mean the kids to a real-life chopper tour!