Hickmans take fun seriously at Gone Bananas novelty shop

Fun is a family affair for Benae and Mike Hickman and children Sarah and Eli.

The latest business venture by Mike and Benae Hickman Gone Bananas, a kids novelty and fun shop. If the brightly colored walls and displays of toys and candies don't win you over, the couple's enthusiasm surely will. "We love kids and want this be a positive Christian environment for them," said Mike. "We want them to be shown love and fun, from fun grownups."

"We want to provide an environment for kids to explore," added Benae. "A place where they can live outside the box and express their creativity."

"This is not a no-no place," she said. "Things you might not get to do at home, like throwing a ball against the wall, you can do here."

The Hickmans had a soft opening for Gone Bananas on Sept. 15 and plan a grand opening next month. Housed in the former Whitehouse Coffee Shop, they are still finalizing plans for future activities.

In addition to a retail shop where kids can buy novelty and specialty toys and candies, the couple hopes to add a book nook, host story time and have a schedule of special guest speakers.

Benae and Mike Hickman hang out at their new business, Gone Bananas, a kids novelty and fun shop.

They would also like to have a praise and worship program, crafts hour and a discovery session, where kids can come in and do a science project.

There will be something for adults, too. A parents night out program is in the works, and the Hickmans said their birthday party package couldn't be easier for mom and dad.

"We provide everything ... just bring the kids," said Mike.

The Hickmans hope to have a mailing list with a full schedule of events soon. You can sign up at the store or email them at kidsgonebananas@aol.com.

The Hickmans also own New Life Massage Therapy and Rose City Sound and Production. Despite the variety of their businesses, a common theme for the couple is a chance to share their personal ministry.

At Gone Bananas, that will take the form of a safe, positive place for kids to have a lot of fun. Benae and Mike will probably have a good time, too.

"There's no mistake that we're in a round building," said Benae with a laugh. "We're not squares in any way."