Apple Festival attendance up, proceeds expected near $40,000

By Pat Bailey

Despite the weather forecast, Mother Nature co-operated, and thousands turned out to help make the 32nd Annual Apple Festival a great success on the weekend.

A record number turned out for the breakfast Saturday morning, which also included a little tribute to the late Bruce Crozier. The volunteers for the Ruthven Oddfellows donned bowties as a fitting tribute to the late politician, known for his colorful bowties.

Overall, attendance was estimated at nearly 15,000 visitors, up from last year, according to Tony DeSantis, manager community relations for Community Living Essex County.

DeSantis said it was a wonderful weekend, despite the threat of rain, and they expect to raise between $35,000 to $40,000 for CLEC.

And hundreds lined the parade route Saturday morning, youngsters ready to collect candy, while the floats, the band and a cast of characters entertained and tossed out candy to the delight of the crowd.

The Community Living Essex County float took top honors for its parade entry, with the Town of Kingsville taking second place, Ruthven Nursery claiming third place honors and Ruthven Auto garnering an honorable mention.

Local politicians lauded the efforts of the volunteer committee key to this year's successful festival, as well as the success of festivals past.

And when it came to peeling apples, it was Essex MP Jeff Watson's low-to-the-ground technique that earned him bragging rights.

In his first attempt, Leamington Mayor John Paterson was quite pleased with his result. To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com.