SEMINOLE — As a grade-schooler, Steve Nickse remembers spending the last day of school at Seminole City Park.
He played with friends, ate hot dogs, drank lemonade, snacked on cold treats and won prizes.
In sixth and seventh grade, he dressed as Mr. Peanut while volunteering at the end-of-school celebration. Now Nickse — who runs Seminole Chiropractic, Injury & Wellness Center — is one of the main organizers of the Greater Seminole Area Chamber of Commerce and city of Seminole’s Kids Appreciation Day. The 46th annual event took place May 28, drawing about 400 children.
BayFirst Bank and All Smiles Orthodontics were the principal sponsors. The community’s two Kiwanis clubs, two Rotary clubs, women’s club and junior women’s club also volunteered.
The event was created to encourage integrity, sensible activities and good summer choices among elementary-age children in the Greater Seminole area.
“As a child, I didn’t totally understand the meaning of promoting summer integrity,” Nickse said. “I ran around and got prizes.
“But we still talk about making smart decisions and being safe. The event has evolved a little and gotten bigger over time. We decided to let vendors advertise their businesses.
“One of the neat things is when a child or parent comes up and either says, ‘Thanks,’ or ‘I was here as a child.’”
In recent years, the children have gotten a few bonuses: Tony Coppola handing out generous portions of Rita’s Italian Ice, people donating about 30 bicycles and the Seminole Fire Department giving away a kayak through Walmart.
Children shared their thoughts on the event.
Nathalie: “It’s pretty great. I like being here.”
Husam: “It’s good. I like the raffle for the kayak and, yes, the Rita’s ice.”
Andrew: “I think it’s pretty nice. I like the park. I liked seeing my friends. I like seeing the booths and the bike winners. I’d like one. I need a new one.”
Aaron (a bike winner): “It felt good. I can’t remember what I won before, but I think it was some toys.”
Fermin (a bike winner): “It looks cool. Maybe I’ll bike at my house.”
Nickse also fielded memorable questions and comments from the children.
“One asked if I personally buy every bike from the bank,” he said. “Another said, ‘No one will notice if you gave me a bike,’ and a lot said, ‘I really hope you call my name.’”