Annual fundraiser returns

By Matthew Bernat
Turley Publications Reporter

STURBRIDGE - Magic tricks, dancing, a Harlem Globetrotter and four moonbounces will greet children and parents who attend the Sturbridge Host Hotel’s Kid’s Expo this Monday for an event that promises no shortage of fun.
Held every President’s Day for the past eight years, this annual fundraiser will donate all its proceeds to the Molly Bish Foundation, which promotes child safety through education and prevention.
Amid the laughs and smiles to be had at the upcoming event there is a serious message that will belie the day’s entertainment. Held in honor of Molly Bish and serving as a fundraiser for the foundation created in her memory, the event struggles to educate children about staying safe and being wary of strangers.
“This gives parents an opportunity to start a conversation about safety,” said Julie Williams, kids’ event coordinator with the Host Hotel. “It’s also a great event for families and provides them something inexpensive to do for the day.”
Last year, the fundraiser raised $2,700, drew about 1,500 people and saw volunteers create roughly 400 child identification kits – which included a head-and-shoulders photo and a professionally made set of fingerprints – that can be used should a child go missing.
Ten years ago, 16-year-old Molly Bish was abducted from her lifeguard post at Comins Pond in Warren. Her remains were found three years later, in June 2003, five miles from her family home. The case remains unsolved. However, Molly’s parents, John and Magi Bish, continue to push for increased child safety awareness and hold out hope that Molly’s killer will be found.
“The Molly Bish Foundation is really important for kids. Everything they do is to help keep our children safe,” Williams said.
Some of the organization’s efforts include distributing more than 120,000 identification kits throughout New England; enacting Missing Children’s Day and pushing for legislation such as the Amber Alert.
Yet, even with the serious message at the event’s heart, Williams emphasized the fun and varied activities children can partake in.
A DJ, balloon sculpting, storytelling, magic; a visit from Ronald McDonald; performances by Mass Motion Dance Academy and basketball tricks performed by Harlem Globetrotter Moo Moo Evans will all be available for those who attend.
“Last year, the kids had a blast. We saw many children who did not want to leave at the end of the day,” Williams said.
The Sturbridge Host Hotel’s Kid’s Expo will be held Monday, Feb. 15 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Sturbridge Host Hotel. Tickets cost $3 for adults and $1 for children, with all proceeds being donated to the Molly Bish Foundation. For more information call the Host Hotel at: (508) 347-7393.