Kids wait in line for Freddy's balloon artistry

Freddy Alfredo works intently as kids watch balloons transform into the magic they asked for: a puppy, a sword, a monkey, a Jedi light saber — even a sunflower.

His creations emerge gradually until a glimmer of recognition lights in the children’s face and they reach for the reward for their patience.

There was a long line of children and parents willing to wait July 30 during Sunflower Fest 2021 at Bergsbaken Farms in Cecil, next to a pair of face painters.

Freddy’s Balloon Animals grew out of Alfredo’s need to strengthen his hands as he deals with the limitations that keep him in a wheelchair.

“I tried doing it with weights, but they were too heavy,” he said. “The doctor said I needed to do it with something light.”

He tried manipulating a Rubik’s Cube but found a more fun alternative when he started learning how to mold balloons into toy creatures and other objects.

“I had a room full of these things, and a friend suggested I go to flea markets and parks,” Alfredo said.

Freddy’s Balloon Animals can be found most Sundays at the Shawano flea market and at other festivals around the area.