Sapphire skies and puffy white clouds gave rise to balmy temperatures at the Barksdale Station Health Fair on April 21 in DuPont.

The health fair had massages, raffles, giveaways, and a chance to win great prizes to the Oregon Beach and Great Wolf Lodge. A multitude of kids (many of whom participated in JBLM's early morning ‘Kids Run') attended the health fair. There were opportunities to take pictures with a clown and the tooth fairy, and play bean toss and angry bird slingshot games.

"We want to start educating kids now about eye-care health," said Marcy Angel, a patient service representative at Clarus Eye Centre. "Early awareness and knowledge can make all the difference in the world."

Clarus offered complimentary vision and glaucoma screenings, along with a children's coloring contest and gift cards at the health fair. Kids enjoyed free snacks and balloon-making fun, while learning about their bodies.

"By making health care fun," said Alice, a Clarus representative, "we're giving them a positive experience and a taste of what it's like to take care of their eyes."

"This is so cool," said eight-year old Emily, as her twin brother Nick tried to pop a balloon made by the Balloon Animal Man (BAM) - a kid who makes balloon creations at children's events.

"I want to win the coloring game," said six-year old Josh about the Clarus contest.

"Clarus is a great place for kids and adults," said Angel. "We have a nice selection in our optical shop. We also accept Tricare and offer military discounts on optical, and we're opened late to accommodate working parents."

Other participating vendors included Dhane Orthodontic, Children's Dentistry of DuPont, DuPont Oral Surgeons, DuPont Dental, Allied University, Black Lake Bible Camp among others.

Barksdale Station is located on Station Drive, off exit 119 near Joint Base Lewis-McChord.