08/11/2026
A RISING TIDE
When you arrive at the octopus playground on August 21st, you will be greeted by an old man who wants to read a new book. After your initial disappointment, I promise things will start looking up. And around. And everywhere.
Acrobats twirling and tumbling. Gossamer winged fairies flittering about. Fantastical face painting. A children’s musician. Games. Prizes. Treats. And that amazing playground.
All of this magic and mayhem will be brought to you by a group of people with hearts as large as very large hearts. Individuals and organizations working together to make our community more enriching for everyone.
Above & Beyond Children's Museum — a beacon of playful exploration and discovery right here in the heart of downtown Sheboygan. A very visible magnet for locals and tourists alike. A standing statement that here, we cherish our children and nurture their growth in engaging, playful and meaningful ways.
Dare to Dream Theatre — this process-based youth theater company is rooted in education, and dedicated to bringing joy to children, be they on stage, behind the scenes, or sitting in the audience. An art form that offers something for everyone, theater fosters so many important life skills. Self confidence, creativity, literacy, empathy, self-discipline, and mutual respect, to name just a few. But don’t take my word for it. Ask a parent. Or one of the fairies fluttering about. I expect there will be several of them in attendance.
Sheboygan County Food Bank — an incredibly valuable and important organization run by incredible people. By partnering with them on this event, I hope that besides nurturing a love and appreciation for literacy, and providing some sugar induced high-turbo pre-nap stimulation, the children can be reminded that we are all on the same team. To take the time to consider those less fortunate. To help our neighbors in need. To try to leave this world a better place than we found it. Go team.
Warped Dance Company — as much as dance is about how the art form moves the body, it is at least equally about how it moves the soul. WDC teaches children the power within each of us to celebrate life, to share that joy with others, and to demonstrate that sometimes, gravity is optional. Come dance with us, won’t you?
Mini’s Face Painting, Piñatas & Party Decoration — a dear friend, a wonderful human being, and an absolutely amazingly gifted painter of little faces. If you bring someone with an appropriately sized adorable mug that needs painting, Mini’s got it covered. So-to-speak.
Orange Hat Publishing — my publisher. Orange hat. Orange octopus. It was destiny.
Thank you thank you thank you to the individuals and organizations who are coming together to share their gifts and celebrate some of the many things this community offers to help enrich our children’s lives. All these people. All working together. All sharing the love. It makes my heart go pitter-patter.
A rising tide lifts all ships.
