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Volunteers needed for carnival

It's not too late to have some fun!

Dave Sullivan
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Mar 16/01) - Ever had the urge to act like a fool in public while remaining anonymous?

Well, you can really do it at the upcoming Caribou Carnival. The catch is having to volunteer as either Carny or Carnella, the carnival's official mascots.

Organizers are currently seeking four large people to work in shifts at filling the big costumes.

It shouldn't get too hot inside, says festival manager Lori Piro, who survived her stint wearing mascot suits in a sweltering July heat.

Piro says mascots are sometimes body-slammed by energetic older kids, and the smaller ones like to pull at the costume.

Still, says festival board member Jeannie Rocher, it's a great job if you're patient with children.

Volunteers are also being sought in other areas to ensure this year's carnival runs smoothly.

Piro is confident people will come forward. "Yellowknifers are being really supportive," she said.

Carpenters are needed to help erect the carnival's large new dome tents. Piro says a man from the factory will be there part of the time to answer questions.

Caribou cop volunteers are also in short supply this year. Feel the power of arresting someone, even if it's just for not wearing an official button. The $3 buttons serve as admission passes, says Piro.

Organizers are at the point of paying attention to the little details as days count down to the 45th annual carnival. Everything from ensuring there will be enough porta-potties and trash cans, to building snow berms on the lake to help direct the flow of traffic and people.

An extra 3,000 people are expected to be in Yellowknife at some point during the festival. It officially opens March 30, but the Capers variety show is on March 28 and the Shriner clowns perform the following day.