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Friday, 08 August 2008 |
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Staff photo/Mike Burkholder
Contestants from the 2008 SummerFest Queen pageant perform a dance routine during the opening ceremony of SummerFest Thursday night. By MIKE BURKHOLDER
Managing Editor
ST. MARYS — Despite a few stray showers that passed through St. Marys Thursday afternoon, the 26th annual SummerFest went off without a hitch.
“We were actually watching the weather and knew there was a small chance,” St. Marys Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kelly Kill said. “We are just happy the weatherman was right.”
While rain washed out last year’s opening ceremony, history did not repeat itself as the festival opened to unseasonably mild temperatures and sunshine. Kill said the cooler weather should help attendance for the weekend.
“I think it’s going to be wonderful,” Kill said. “They won’t have to suffer with the heat and we are glad the temperatures are going to be tolerable.”
Residents packed Memorial Park Thursday night for the opening ceremony, which got underway with the raising of the flag by members of the St. Marys American Legion and VFW Post 9289. Kill said the attendance at the ceremony was a testament to the enthusiasm for the annual event.
“It’s nice to the the fruition of a year’s work come together,” Kill said. “It’s nice to see all the people out here and enjoying it. We have some great entertainment lined up.”
Following a performance by the contestants in the 2008 SummerFest Queen pageant, the big band sound of A/C Swing could be heard. The band was part of the Supper and Sounds program in Memorial Park.
“It’s nice to see people support us,” Kill said. “It’s enjoyable and the food is great.”
Mayor Greg Freewalt welcomed the crowd to the event. Freewalt said SummerFest is an opportunity for residents to get together and visit during the summer.
“The chamber and all their committees worked very hard,” Freewalt said. “I think it’s a good time to come together and people seem to enjoy themselves.”
SummerFest General Chair Jeff Squire thanked the crowd for turning out for the event and encouraged them to attend the rest of the weekend. Squire said despite the passing showers, he expected a solid turnout for the rest of SummerFest.
“So far, I am quite pleased,” Squire said. “It always rains onThursday — but it takes the rain away for the weekend. I think if the weather stays as predicted, there is no reason for anyone to leave the park. We are hoping the big crowds stay and enjoy SummerFest in comfort.”
SummerFest continues today with a sidewalk sale along Spring Street. The midway and concession stands open at 4 p.m. today. |
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Last Updated ( Wednesday, 13 August 2008 )
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