The rain is both a fading memory and a distant promise is a metaphor that fits perfectly for ChesterFest, last week’s 14th annual event. While only about three-fourths of the 150 scheduled vendors set up at the Fest, those crafters, merchants and charities were happy with the day.
The day was difficult for the volunteers, staying wet most of the day, and the on and off drizzle did not impede the ChesterFest events. And though you might think that the volunteers who each year pour blood sweat and tears into ChesterFest might give it up following such a weather challenging day, the group is only looking toward the promise of next year.
Attendance was down from last year by about 70 percent. Only about 2,500 diehard patrons walked the loop of vendors, ate the variety of food and listened to the five bands that were undaunted by the moist day. A huge tent at the center of the Fest was filled from time to time as folks ate great food while listening to great music and staying day.
Events such as the dog show sponsored by Centralia Animal Hospital, World Cherry Pie Eating Championship(winner Kelly Cocar) and tug-o-war went off without a hitch.
The Kids Zone, which is always a triumph, was still popular by kids of all ages. Even when the drizzle arrived, those in the Zone did not care. They hunkered down in entertainment tent. The theme this year was “Up” and included a replica of the house in the movie of the same name. A climbing wall at least 25-feet tall was a big hit and kids could be seen making it to the top from the opposite side of the Fest. Melanie Parker organized a large number of volunteers from Christian Life Church, which included service members from Fort Lee.
The Chester Community Association (CCA), which offers ChesterFest each year, could not do it without great volunteers. Thomas Dale JROTC provided the heavy lifting under the command of Major Deloris Turner and Sgt. Patricia Harris. Elliott Fausz was a three-handed manager; Michael Leatherwood kept volunteer management in line, Chad Hinnant, Michelle Wasielewski, Sean Eichert were zone captains, while Lyndsey Fausz, Kristi Higgins and Howard Corey managed vendor check-in. Kent Dodd was master of ceremonies and produced the bands on the stage. Mark Fausz manned the CCA information center.
The CCA wishes to thank all ChesterFest sponsors, vendors and participants for their support and patience with the weather.
