Although the morning started out gray and dreary, the opening day of the 10th annual Bizarre Bazaar in Harrison Park turned into a picture perfect fall event.
“Clouds and rain are gone, thank goodness. This bazaar is one of our most favorite days of the year and we couldn’t bear it if it had to be canceled,” said Joselyn Reed-Martinez of Merrillville, as she and her family lined up near the ticket booth. “This day is truly fun for everyone that comes here.”
The day’s activities were spread throughout the large park.
On the south end, an antique car show and dozens of vendor tents were set up for visitors. White elephant tables also dotted the sidewalk.
“We’ve been here over an hour and haven’t left this area,” laughed Katelynn Johnson of Hammond, as she purchased a set of kitchen mixing bowls. “The kids are anxious to get on the pony rides and have something to eat, so I’ll have to curb my shopping.”
Traditionally held on the third Saturday in September, the annual event, affectionately called Biz Baz by many repeat visitors, has continued in popularity for many reasons. The main one is that there truly is something to occupy everyone, no matter what age, according to those who attend.
This year, located in the middle of Harrison Park were the children’s games, face painting and a craft booth manned by representatives of South Shore Arts.
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Visitors to this booth were invited to fashion a “wacky hat,” which has become a staple of Biz Baz.
Next to the main stage positioned at the north end of Harrison Park were a dozen food booths, offering beef tips, hot dogs and pizza, among many other items. Pony rides and the ticket booth also were found in this area.
Under one of the park’s shelters was a busy attraction — Rich Koz, aka television celebrity Svengoolie, was signing autographs.
The line to see the popular character started to form shortly before Biz Baz officially opened for business at 10 a.m. Hundreds of people — of all ages — waited to get a glimpse and quick photo.
Cathy and Tim Duda of Crown Point and their sons Adam, 17, and Jason, 19, were among those chatting with others as they finally approached the shelter.
“We’ve been in line for almost two hours, but it’s worth it,” Tim Duda said. “This (character) brings back so many childhood memories — my dad let me stay up late to watch ‘Svengoolie’ on the weekends, and I did the same with my sons. We have three generations that grew up with Svengoolie. I’m a little nervous to meet him.”
Many others had similar stories, and they all waited their turn as Koz stayed at Biz Baz well past his scheduled time.
“It’s rare that our whole family can go to an event and all come home smiling,” said Latisha Kingery of Hammond, as she clutched her autographed picture of Svengoolie. “But that’s what happens at Biz Baz. We wouldn’t miss this for the world.”
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.