A line snaking around the St. Barnabas Presbyterian Church began forming by 7:30 a.m., Saturday, August 22. Hundreds of local residents attending the annual health fair came for school immunizations and other health information. One thoughtful saint took it upon himself to provide bottled water for the patient crowd.

When the doors opened at 10:00, families with school age children were directed to the medical personnel where records were checked and the required immunizations administered. Some 254 children were given over 700 shots, thanks to the efficient, well organized team from The Care Van and Presbyterian Health Services.

St. Barnabas youth led activities to entertain the youngsters during the long wait. Clowns, small handmade comfort dolls and fun tattoos became the "spoonfuls of sugar" that "helped the medicine (shots) go down."

Families ineligible for Medicaid but unable to afford other medical insurance received information and application forms for the Texas Children’s Insurance Plan (CHIP).

This year the Health Fair Committee added "Focus on Seniors," to provide professionals to answer questions and give information in 15-minute seminars on how to select caregivers, resources for help in downsizing to smaller homes, health tips, etc.

All Smiles Dental Centers demonstrated proper brushing and checked children’s teeth while Marvel Man wandered through the fair delighting children. Blood pressure checks, "Ask the Doctor," hearing and vision checks and body mass index measurements were all services provided.

For many, however, the highlight was the door prize drawings held every 30 minutes. Approximately 40 prizes were donated by local merchants and church members.