Deb's Monthly Review

July 2007

Editor: Deb Thompson deb@lightpatch.com

Festivals for Travelers, Sites of the Month, Archives, Selected Links and more.

Special Quotation "If you wish to travel far and fast, travel light. Take off all your envies, jealousies, unforgiveness, selfishness, and fears. --Glenn Clark

To parents, teachers, and other guardians of children: The Review is a place where adults or kids should be able to stop by and browse comfortably. But, remember - I have no control over outside links. For happiest results, please surf the Web with your kids!

Important Message Just For Kids: If someone (even someone you love) has touched you in a way that didn't seem right or made you feel bad, you can talk about it with someone. There are really nice people at this number who will listen and let you talk about what you might want to do next to stay safe.

Call 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) and push 1 to talk to someone. Nobody has the right to hurt you and then tell you not to tell. It's important to talk about it. Tell someone!

	The Artsy Site Of The Month: honking duck 78s Listen to them, complete with pops and cracks		Handy Site Of The Month: Bikely.com (IRS Pub. 525) Find good trails, contribute info on your own favorites.
	Just Fun Site Of The Month: KookyChow Dot Com Really unusual things that people consume		Scientific/Technical Site Of The Month: A Project Management Primer (.pdf) Principles hold up well to technical or almost any other project (Also a great way to teach kids focus, teamwork and leadership)

 July 2007 Festivals and Events

Need a place to stay? Days Inn - Great San Francisco rates! Wingate Inns - Great Columbia, SC rates! Ramada - Great Washington D.C. rates! Howard Johnson - Great Anaheim rates! Travelodge - Great Las Vegas rates! Super 8 - Great NYC rates! Knights Inn - Great value on the road.

Scroll down for July Festivals and other events for travelers in the U.S.

July 1-7, 2007 Blackberry Festival Courthouse Square, Carlisle, Kentucky	Carnival, parade on Main St., dance, music, fireworks, pageant. Questions? Call 859-289-2384
July 3-7, 2007 National Tom Sawyer Days Historic downtown, Hannibal, Missouri	Arts and crafts in Central Park, baby contest, parade on Broadway, bingo, beer tent, washer tournament, back seat driver contest, mud volleyball, tricycle races, fun run, karate demo, carnival, car cruise-in, frog jumping contest, National Fence Painting Contest, raffle, fireworks, horseshoe tournament, disc golf tournament. Further Information: Call 573-221-2477
July 3-7, 2007 Sawdust Days Menominee Park, Oshkosh, Wisconsin	Lucky button hunt, bicycle stunt show, hot sauce fest, musical entertainment, fireworks on July 4 at 9:45pm, festival foods, beer tent, carnival, parade, flea market, wildlife show, more. Get The Facts: Call 920-235-5584
July 4, 2007 Ice Cream Festival Schrock Park, Tuttle, Oklahoma	Parade, Braum's ice cream, 1907 fashion show, music, activities for kids, vendors, antique farm equipment on display. Details: Call 405-381-4600
July 4-8, 2007 First Town Days Festival Tuscora Park, New Philadelphia, Ohio	Car show, fireworks, carnival rides, Family Day, Senior Day, softball tournament, pageant, grand parade, 5K run. Further Information: Call 330-343-6814
July 5-7, 2007 Diller Picnic Downtown, Diller, Nebraska	Now in its 111 year, the celebration features features musical entertainment, arts and crafts, Mid-State Mud Draggers, food stands, bingo, a carnival, parade on July 7, beer garden, pasture golf tournament, street dance, chicken BBQ, fireworks on July 5, prizes. This year's theme is "Make your own kind of music". Find Out More: Call 402-793-5991
July 6-8, 2006 Pirate Festival Krull Park, Olcott, New York	There will be a pirate war on Lake Ontario with bombs (water balloons) and plenty of drama. Enjoy classic cars, music, food, a parade, games and rides. Expect skirmishes, swordfighting and swashbuckling at the festival site. Hours are 6pm-midnight on Friday, noon-midnight on Saturday and noon-8pm on Sunday. Scurvy dogs, wenches and costumes welcomed. AARRHH! Additional Details: Call 716-778-8042 or 716-778-8531
July 7-8, 2007 Taste of Buffalo Delaware Avenue area, Buffalo, New York	Almost half a million people are expected to show up and enjoy tastings from more than 50 area restaurants, with each establishment offering at least 3 different dishes. There is no admission fee. Instead, you buy tasting tickets and exchange them for whatever munchies appeal to you. You can also enjoy 3 stages of musical entertainment and activities for kids. Some of the goodies you can expect to find on hand: Chicken burritos, grilled peppercorn salmon, bruschetta, wings, garlic pan bread, carnitas, sweet potato fries, rolled steak, corned beef, rootbeer cheesecake, mango sorbet, strawberry crepes, yogurt cones, brownie bites and much more. Event hours are 11am-9pm on Saturday and 11am-7pm on Sunday. It's the 24th year for this one. Info: Call 800-562-0134 or 800-283-3256
July 7-8, 2007 Heritage Days Old Constitution House, Windsor, Vermont	During this 9th year you can enjoy tours of local historical homes, arts and crafts, classic cars, historic encampments and reenactments, library book sale, Victorian tea party, block dance, open free museums, horse and wagon rides, carriage rides, pony rides for the kids, storytelling, food vendors, ice cream social, sidewalk sales, parade Sat. at 11am, antiques, old-fashioned games, berry festival, brewery tent. Come in period costume if you like! Questions? Call 802-674-5910 or 802-484-7283
July 7-14, 2007 National Cherry Festival Downtown, Traverse City, Michigan	Cherry pit spitting contest, bingo, bubble gum blowing contest, cherry pie eating contest, bed races, car show, carnival, Big Wheel race, Fire and Smoke by the Bay grilling contest, senior pinochle tournament, sand sculpting contest, arts and crafts, wine tasting, teen volleyball, pet show, film festival, diaper derby, Ultimate Air Dogs, health fair, teen skateboard tournament, cherry recipe contest, air show, Grand Buffet and a Slice of Broadway, Cherryopoly tournament finals, senior euchre, fireworks, battle of the bands, Cherry Tart Tour (bike), beach volleyball, activities, and music. Among those scheduled to perform are Kelly Pickler, Ricochet and Emerson Drive. Learn More: Call 231-947-4230
July 9-15, 2007 Spring Ho Festival W.M. Brook Park & other venues, Lampasas, Texas	10K and 1-mile run, fire department water polo, corn shucking contest, kid's fishing derby, hot air balloon glow, horseshoe pitching tournament, gospel night, entertainment, washer pitching tournament, pageant, arts and crafts, carnival, BBQ cook-off, dance contest, fireworks, activities for kids, food. Get The Facts: Call 512-556-5301
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July 11-14, 2007 Wyandotte Street Art Fair Biddle Avenue area, Wyandotte, Michigan	More than 300 artisans will be showing and selling their wares, plus there will be a Red Cross blood drive, musical entertainment, non-profit booths, local merchant specials, activities for the kids, beer and wine, food court, garden art, classic cars and local merchant specials. Details: Call 734-324-4505
July 11-14, 2007 Ohio Hills Folk Festival Downtown, Quaker City, Ohio	Enjoy this 103rd year with a kiddie parade, mile-long parade, arts and crafts, car show, flea market, farm museum, kids' bike race, 5K run, entertainment, carnival, festival foods, fireworks on Saturday night. Find Out More: Call 740-679-2704
Sorry, festival-goers. I am unable to fulfill requests for personalized festival lists free of charge. You may hire me by the hour for personal research.
July 12-14, 2007 Auburn Cornfest Downtown on Main, Auburn, Michigan	Flea market, parade, carnival, softball tournament, volleyball tournament, dancing, horseshoe pitching tournament, road race, BBQ, arts and crafts booths, fishing frenzy, festival foods (including fresh, sweet corn), tractor pull. Get The Facts: Call 989-662-4001
July 12-14, 2007 Slugburger Festival Historic Downtown, Corinth, Mississippi	The festival mascot is a green guy who looks a lot like a crawling bug. But he's just for fun. No actual slugs appear in slugburgers. The concotion is actually from days when times were hard and cooks were looking for a way to make meat go further. Creative people mixed fillers such as soybean meal or cornmeal with the meat, deep-fried the patty and served it up with mustard, pickles and onion. If you want a hamburger in Corinth, you'd better be specific about it, or you'll get the favored slugburger. Enjoy arts and crafts, festival foods, carnival rides and games, festival merchandise and musical entertainment. This year the festival celebrates 20 years of deep-fried, crunchy fun. Questions? Call 662-287-1550 or 877-347-0545
July 12-14, 2007 Pioneer Days Downtown, Marlinton, West Virginia	The festival celebrates 41 years with a parade, games, festival foods, classic cars, old-time music, arts and crafts. Details: Call 800-336-7009
July 12-15, 2007 Potsdam Summer Festival Market St. area downtown, Potsdam, New York	In its 41st year the festival offers arts and crafts, merchant specials, classic cars, musicians jam sessions, street dances, Tour de Potsdam walk/run, children's balloon release, fire safety demonstrations, visit by K9 trooper, health fair, tractor display, lip synch contest, library book sale, parade on Saturday at 4pm, ducky race, chicken BBQ, cotton candy and other festival foods. More: Call 315-274-9000
July 12-15, 2007 People's Choice Festival of Pennsylvania Arts & Crafts Military Museum Grounds on Rt. 322, Boalsburg, Pennsylvania	In its 15th year the festival offers almost 170 artisans, art by young people ages 8-17, Nestles Aquapod exhibit, appearance by Hershey Kissmobile (July 15), chinchilla exhibit, bounce houses and other fun for the kids, petting zoo, activities for teens, art and science exhibits. When you get hungry you can load up on loaded baked potatoes, General Tsao Chicken, cheesecake, stuffed cabbage, hot dogs and burgers, fresh cinnamon rolls, bbq, frozen treats. Info: Email info@peopleschoicefestival.com
July 13-14, 2007 Turkey Days various venues, Pelican Rapids, Minnesota	Pancake breakfast, sports events, pageant, parade, street dance, classic cars, music, BBQ. Get The Facts: Call 218-863-1221
July 13-14, 2007 Cookson's Jubilee Community Building and grounds, Cookson, Oklahoma	Activities for kids, arts and crafts, BBQ and other foods, local talent. Details: Call 918-457-3220
July 13-14, 2007 Raspberry Festival various venues, Lynden, Washington	Raspberry sundaes, Razz & Shine car cruise-in, Razz to Riches prize drawing, 3-on-3 basketball tournament, sidewalk sales, free throw competition, jazz music, fresh berries for sale, arts and crafts, petting zoo, wagon rides, farm tours, wine tasting, raspberry pancake breakast at Community Center. Additional Information: Call 360-354-5995
July 13-15, 2007 Byron Fest Downtown, Byron, Illinois	Classic car show, basketball, softball, arts and crafts, quilt show, 3 stages of entertainment, GospelFest one night earlier (July 12), activities for kids, 5K run, Taste of Byron with smoothies, curly fries, burgers, Philly beef, deep-fried Twinkies, funnel cakes, corn dogs and more. Come and enjoy this 20th year of festival fun. Questions? Call 815-234-5500
July 13-15, 2007 Moxie Festival Main Street area, Lisbon Falls, Maine	It's the Moxie Festival's 23rd year. Enjoy a 5K road race, fireworks, parade on Sat. at 9am, activities for kids, food court, recipe contest, river race, canoe race, raffle, car show, prizes, Native American pow-wow, pancake breakfast, sausage subs, chicken BBQ, ice cream, corn dogs and other festival foods. Find Out More: Call 207-783-2249
July 13-15, 2007 River Raisin Festival Ellis & Bachmayer Parks, Blissfield, Michigan	In its 24th year the festival will bring a parade (10:30am on Sat.), entertainment, carnival, arts and crafts, raft rides, pony rides, chicken BBQ, business expo tent, inner tube race, arts and crafts. This year's theme is "Wildest Wild West". Additional Facts: Call 517-266-8909 or 888-68-BLISS
July 13-15, 2007 Lagrange Street Polish Festival Lagrange Street, Toledo, Ohio	Pierogi eating contest Sat. at 6pm, crafts, fresh pierogies, kielbasa, activities for kids, polka bands, dancing and dance competitions, festival foods such as hot dogs, Philly steaks, German potato pancakes. You can also sample Polish and American beers. There is also a festival at the St. Hedwig Catholic Church (at Lagrange and Dexter). Further Info: Call 419-255-8406
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July 13-15, 2007 Strawberry Festival various venues, Vashon Island, Washington	Celebrating its 90th year, the festival will offer such fun as a grand parade on July 14, puppet shows, remote radio broadcasts, 3 stages of musical entertainment, beer garden on 100th Ave. (with a cover charge), street dances, Bill Burby/K-2 Fun Run (5K and 10K) on Sat., pet photo contest (sponsored by VIPP), Kiwanis pancake breakfast (with berries) 8am-noon on both Sat. and Sun, classic car parade, wine and jazz garden. Info: Call 206-463-6217 or 206-408-8057 Note: There have been several black bear sightings in the Vashon Island area lately. Here's hoping you get to view one (from a very safe distance, of course!)
July 13-15, 2007 Catfish Days Central Park, Trempealeau, Wisconsin	Fireworks, parade, carnival, fishing tournament, arts and crafts, Catfish 50 bike tour, motorcycle poker run, flea market. 5k and 10k races, bingo, pancake breakfast, egg toss. Further Details: Call 608-534-6335 or 608-534-6780
July 13-16, 2007 Flamingo Festival Pemetic Field, Clark Point Rd. area, Southwest Harbor , Maine	Coast Guard pancake breakfast, Flamingo parade , Firefighter's Muster, music, regatta, perky pet show, puppeteerts, craft fair, kids' carnival, croquet tournament, food, cocktail party, steel drum band party on Monday. It's the 50th year for this popular fundraising event, which supports Harbor House. The non-profit provides recreational, health, maritime education and other activities for children, seniors and families. Additional Information: Call 207-244-3713
July 14, 2007 Parker County Peach Festival Historic downtown, Weatherford, Texas	In this 24th year you can enjoy lots of fresh peaches, more than 200 arts and crafts vendors, food court, activities for children, entertainment, peach juleps, peach ice cream, peach cobbler. The fun runs from 8am-5pm and there is an admission charge for those age 13 and older. Learn More: Call 888-594-3801
July 14-15, 2007 Moose Dropping Festival Downtown, Talkeetna, Alaska	5K fun run/walk, festival merchandise, raffle, Kid Zone, arts and crafts, food vendors, festival parade at noon on Saturday, musical entertainment. Start each day with a biscuits and gravy (or pancake) breakfast. It's the festival's 35th year. Additional Information: Call 907-733-2487
July 14-15, 2007 Los Altos Art & Wine Festival Main & State Streets, Los Altos, California	You can park at Los Altos High School on Almond Ave. and take a shuttle to the fun at this 28th occurrence, but please do not bring pets to the festival. (Service animals are always welcome.) Enjoy entertainment on 3 stages, hundreds of artisans showing and selling their work, a special area for the kids, local media personalities. You'll probably want to get in on festival treats such as bean burritos, fried rice, kabobs, fried zucchini, fafafel, frozen yogurt and much more. Festival hours are 10am-6pm. Questions? Call 650-917-9799 or 650-949-5282
July 14-15, 2007 Santa Barbara French Festival Oak Park, Santa Barbara, California	French films, cabaret performances, drawings for a trip on Air France, arts and crafts booths, replica of the Eiffel Tower, storytelling, puppet shows, entertainment on 3 stages, Poodle Parade (Sunday at 5:30pm), wandering mimes and other entertainers, French wine and French beer, onion soup, quiche, Franco-American Gourmet Tamales, French-Vietnamese fusion dishes and more festival foods. Your hot dog might come wrapped in a fancy baguette. This is a non-smoking event and there is no admission charge. The festival is celebrating its 20th year. Obtenir les faits: Call 805-897-PARIS(7274)
July 12-15, 2007 French Festival Downtown, Cape Vincent, New York	In its 39th year the festival offers arts and crafts, merchant specials, pancake breakfast at St. John's Church, children's entertainment, French bread and pastries, parade, fireworks, music, festival mass, museum displays, student soccer game. Obtenir les faits: Call 315-654-2481
July 14-15, 2007 Choochokam Langley Festival of the Arts Whidbey Island Center, Langley, Washington	For more than 30 years this festival has brought the best of poetry, music, dance and other artistic entertainment to the area. Street performers will wander and mingle with the crowd, there will be arts and crafts on hand and plenty of festival foods. There is an expanded children's area this year and a street dance on Saturday night. Hours are 10am-9:30pm on Saturday and 10am-5pm on Sunday. There is no admission charge. Details: Call 360-221-2010
July 15-21, 2007 Sinclair Lewis Days various venues, Sauk Centre, Minnesota	School house tours, pageant, music, flea market, parade on Saturday at 7:30pm, men's softball tournament, church pie social, street dance, treasure hunt, turtle races, kiddie parade at 7pm on Wednesday, 5K walk/run, arts and crafts, fireworks. More: Call 320-352-5201
July 17-21, 2007 National Baby Food Festival Downtown, Fremont, Michigan	Now in its 17th year, the festival features a karaoke competition, 10K & 5K run, car show, petting zoo, arts and crafts, bike races, bed races, turtle races, Hula Hoop contest, baby crawl, Kids Expo (with some activities for older kids too), kiddie parade, grand parade, Baby Food Eating Contest for the grown-ups, Rock and Rest Contest, Baby Food Cook-off. Further Info: Call 800-592-2229
July 17-22, 2007 Maine Potato Blossom Festival Downtown, Fairfield, Maine	It's the festival's 60th big year and plans include potato picking contests, musical entertainment, industry dinner, parade, Culture Day, mashed potato wrestling, fireworks. Additional Information: Call 207-472-3800
July 18-21, 2007 Durbin Days various venues, Durbin, West Virginia	Parade, carnival, fireworks, classic cars, food, train rides, entertainment, arts and crafts. It's the event's 19th year. Details: Call 800-336-7009
July 19-21, 2007 Bagelfest Peterson Park, Mattoon, Illinois	Arts and crafts, pageant, bagel breakfast with all the toppings (Saturday 8-10am), music, parade Saturday at 10:30am, carnival (opens one day early on the 18th), vendors, beer tent, Bagel Bow-Wow. The festival is celebrating its 22nd year. Get The Facts: Call 217-258-6286 or 800-500-6286
July 19-22, 2007 Venetian Festival Lakefront, St. Joseph, Michigan	Classic cars, boating events (including a lighted boat parade on Saturday evening, arts and crafts, wine tasting, musical concerts, sand sculpting contest, big band dances, activities for the kids, beer tent, fireworks, festival foods, carnival, sporting events. Please, no pets. It's the festival's 29th year. Find Out More: Call 259-983-7917
July 19-22, 2007 Festa Italiana Somerfest grounds on lakefront, Milwaukee, Wisconsin	Come and have fun at this 30th year with an Italian dog show, Opera Tent (showcasing the work of Mario Lanza), choirs, ballroom dancing, tap dancing, San Gemini Flag Throwers, vintage photos on exhibit, raffle info on the Calabria region, bingo, Cucina Showcase, nightly fireworks at 10:15pm, cooking demos, arts and crafts, bocce tournament, Italian mass and processional, plenty of food (pizza, Italian beef, roasted nuts, Italian baked goods, gelato, broasted chicken, beer, wine). Questions? Call 414-223-2808
July 20-21, 2007 California Peach Festival Historic downtown, Marysville, California	In its 8th year the festival offers arts and crafts, fresh peaches for sale, a peaches and pancakes breakfast Sat. 8-11am, 5K run/walk Sat. at 8am, peach pies, activities for kids, musical entertainment, merchant specials and more. Festival hours are 6-11pm Fri. and 11am-11pm on Sat. There is no admission charge. Additional Details: Call 530-671-9600
July 20-21, 2007 Butch Cassidy Days unknown venue(s), Montpelier, Idaho	Fireworks, hatchet throw, parade, shootout reenactment, fiddler music, bed races, log cutting contest, dinner and dance. Details: Call 208-945-3333 or 800-448-2327
July 20-21, 2007 Green River Festival Greenfield Community College, Greenfield, Massachusetts	Enjoy music from Buddy Guy, Andrew Jones and Sprinthouse (among others). This 21st year also offers activities for kids, arts and crafts, festival foods, hot air balloons and fireworks. Further Information: Call 413-773-5463
July 20-21, 2007 Hot Dog Daze Frisco Street., Clinton, Oklahoma	The Weenie Nationals: dachshund/weiner dog races draw thousands of spectators. There are cutest cowgirl and cowboy contests, a rodeo, parade, free hot dogs and more. Additional Information: Call 580-323-2222
July 20-22, 2007 Culver Lake Fest Beach front at Lake Maxinkuckee, Culver, Indiana	The festival's 24th year brings with it a car show, wake board show, activities for kids, arts and crafts, pancake breakfast at the train depot, musical entertainment, burnout contest, golf scramble, games, cheerleading competition, fireworks, bass tournament, horseshoe pitching tournament, Lake Fest Run, parade, commercial booths, watermelon eating contest and turtle races for the kids. More: Call 574-842-2899
July 20-22, 2007 Yarmouth Clam Festival various venues, Yarmouth, Maine	Come and have fun at this 42nd year with bluegrass music, storytelling and folk songs, magic shows, the Wheel of Fortune Wheelmobile, classical guitar music, festival merchandise, Irish music, arts and crafts, 5-mile road race and 1-mile fun run for the kids, parade Friday at 6pm, clam shucking competition, antiques, horse-drawn carriage rides, diaper derby, canoe and kayak races. Begin Sat. and Sun. with a blueberry pancake breakfast at Memorial Green or a flapjack breakfast at First Parish Church. Breakfasts are sold 7-10:30am on both days. If you get hungry later in the day there will be plenty of festival foods on hand. Questions? Call 207-846-3984
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July 20-22, 2007 Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival Fairgrounds, Berea, Ohio	The festival celebrates 25 years with Irish bands and step dancers, plays, Irish historical exhibits, children's activities, exhibits highlighting the work of Irish actors and sports figures, tourist and travel info, focus on U.S. Presidents of Irish descent, info on Irish dogs, Irish ale and foods. Going hungry is not an option with goodies such as stuffed baked potatoes, shepherd's pie, roast lamb dinner, meat pies, bangers, corned beef, Irish sausages, soda bread, scones, and root beer floats (hhhhmmm—are those Irish??) There is an admission charge for those over age 10. Further Information: Call 330-321-6174 or 800-485-8013
July 20-22, 2007 Blueberry Festival Burnside Plantation, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania	The event celebrates its 22nd year with a classic car parade, a live horse-drawn carousel, blueberry pie eating contest, blueberry bushes for sale, Moravian cooking demonstrations, quilt raffle, arts and crafts, pie sale, petting zoo, farm tours, pony rides. Enjoy entertainment from Tom Chapin, Bill Miller and enjoy Native American stories and songs. Details: Call 610-888-5044 or 610-882-0450
July 20-22, 2007 Somerfest 214 S. Harrison, Somerset, Pennsylvania	Youth talent, festival foods, entertainment, local class reunions, activities for kids, arts and crafts and more. Questions? Call 814-443-2433
July 20-22, 2007 Watermelon Festival various venues, Pageland, South Carolina	Parade, classic car cruise-in, carnival rides, festival merchandise, commercial vendors, entertainment, arts and crafts, rodeo events, pageant. Learn More: Call 843-672-6400
July 20-22, 2007 Bite of Seattle Seattle Center, Seattle, Washington	More than 50 area restaurants and 30 food product companies participate in this event. There will be cooking demos, music, comedy, kids' entertainment, music, wine tasting. Samples of tastes may include: pot stickers, ribs, spinach momo, eggroll lumpia, teriyaki chicken, Philly cheeseteak, fried rice, wings, mango berry trifle, scones with raspberry jam, strawberry/raspberry shortcake, green tea tempura ice cream. Hours are 11am-9pm Friday and Saturday and 11am-8pm Sunday. Info: Call 425-283-5050
July 21, 2007 Mollyockett Day Downtown, Bethel, Maine	A Pequawket woman lived and worked among the early European settlers in the region and this day is named in her honor. There will be a fiddler contest, frog jumping fireworks, duck race, parade, arts and crafts, entertainment, festival foods and a race that includes a 5-mile run, a 3-mile walk and a 1-mile kids' fun run. Each race begins at 8:30am. Get The Facts: Call 207-824-3575 Note: Also going on in town that same day—a car show 9am-2pm at Telstar High School. And if you're in the area one extra day you can get in on the antique show and sale at Kimball Stanford House (at the corner of Rt. 5 and Rt. 5-A) the 22nd, in Lovell. Hours are 8:30am-2:30pm.
July 21, 2007 Burgerfest Buffalo Street area, Hamburg, New York	The festival has migrated from Main Street this year, due to area construction. Enjoy arts and crafts, music, Animal Alley, commercial vendors, community vendors, a burger eating contest, beer tent, games for children, Taste of Hamburg food court. Additional Information: Call 716-649-7917 or 716-983-9861
July 21, 2007 North Carolina Peach Festival Fitzgerald Park, Candor, North Carolina	Celebrate this 11th year with peaches and ice cream, a peach eating contest, parade at 10am, pageant, crafts, games and rides, festival merchandise, fresh peaches for sale, entertainment (bring lawn chairs, if you like). More: Call 910-974-4221
July 21, 2007 West Union Fest 126 Historic downtown, West Union, New York	Parade (6pm Friday night), horse and wagon rides, farmers market, courthouse tours, health screenings, Wall of Honor patriotic ceremonies, Victorian era costume contest, championship marble shooting demonstrations, bed races, arts and crafts, petting zoo, Liars' Contest, festival foods, cake walk, music, Guinness attempt at Largest Genealogy Chart Title, coloring contest for kids, outhouse float contest. Questions? Call 304-873-1400 or 304-873-3379
July 21, 2007 Peach Festival City Park, Stratford, Oklahoma	Auto show, rodeo events, arts and crafts, games, food, Peach Festival Idol, free peach ice cream in the afternoon. Hours are 9am-4pm. Details: Call 580-759-4455
July 21-22, 2007 San Clemente Ocean Festival San Clemente Pier, San Clemente, California	Ocean art show, sand sculpture, surfing competitions, bodysurfing clinics, lifesaving demonstrations, Woodie car show, pancake breakfast, California Waterman and Waterwoman Championships, fishing derby, children's pavilion, music, commercial vendors, food vendors. Info: Call 949-440-6141
July 21-22, 2007 Ethnic Arts Festival Dawes Park, Evanston, Illinois	Martical arts demos, face painting, genealogy assistance, origami arts and crafts, folkdancing, poetry, music, henna demonstrations, fiber arts. More than 100 country's flags fly over the festival while you enjoy Cajun dishes, tabouli salad, fruit smoothies, tofu pad thai, hummus, freid corn, egg rolls, gyros. It's the 22nd year for this one and there is no admission charge. Additional Info: Call 847-448-8058 or 847-448-8260
July 21-22, 2007 Mize Watermelon Festival City Park, Mize, Mississippi	Greased watermelon race, watermelon eating contest, arts and crafts, entertainment, watermelon seed spitting contest. Learn More: Call 601-733-2221
July 21-22, 2007 Rosendale Street Festival Main Street, Rosendale, New York	More than 80 bands/artists play music on 5 stages. The kids have their own activity area, plus there will be ethnic foods, BBQ, face painting, arts and crafts. Enjoy it all from noon-10pm on Saturday and from noon-6pm on Sunday. Get the Facts: Call 845-750-6168
July 21-22, 2007 Walla Walla Sweet Onion Festival County Fairgrounds, Walla Walla, Washington	Celebrate this 23rd year with music, arts and crafts, BBQ competition, food vendors, martial arts demos, photo exhibit, onion recipe contest, activities for kids, pancake breakfast 7-11am Sat. & Sun., indoor art show, chef demos, Hells Canyon Paint Horse Show, onion museum, wine tasting. More: Call 509-529-2613
July 24-25, 2007 Plainfield Farmer's Fair Fairgrounds on Route 191, Plainfield, Pennsylvania	Now in its 59th year, this festival will be filled with crafts, livestock, 4-H projects, entertainment, Barnyard Olympics, truck and tractor pulls. There will also be a pageant, antique equipment display, baking contest, food vendors, a pie eating contest, old-fashioned games, games for kids, kiddie pedal tractor pull, adult pedal tractor pull, demolition derby. Please, no pets, coolers or backpacks. There is an admission charge for those over age 12. Questions? Call 610-863-6816
July 25-28, 2007 Violet Festival Victory Park, Pickerington, Ohio	Celebrate 10 years of festival fun with a battle of the bands, arts and crafts, 5K run/walk, parade (Friday at 7pm), fireworks at 10pm on Saturday, car and bike show, carnival, community vendors, beer garden. Bring chairs and blankets to enjoy music by Eddie Money and others. Additional Information: Call 614-834-2717 or email info@violetfestival.org
July 26, 28-29, 2007 Iron River Blueberry Festival Moon Lake Park & Downtown, Iron River, Wisconsin	Pageant, polka mass, Ecumenical songfest Thursday at 7pm at the Community Center, fresh blueberries for sale, a dance, beer tent, blueberry pie eating contest, pedal tractor pull for the kids, games and rides, parade on Sunday at 12:15pm, drawings for prizes, blueberry pie for sale whole or by the slice, more. Details: Call 800-345-0716
July 26-28, 2007 Great Texas Mosquito Festival Municipal Park, Clute, Texas	Plans for this 27th year include a Dodge Ball Sting Tournament, horseshoe pitching tournament, washer pitching tournament, Mr. & Mrs. Mosquito Legs Contest, senior bingo, carnival, food, BBQ & fajita cook-off, haystack dive, Mosquito Chase 5K Run, arts and crafts, Century BuzzBike and Skate Tour (July 28). Among the festival musical talent scheduled at this writing: Josh Owen, Sunny Sauceda, Reckless Kelly. Get The Facts: Call 979-265-8392 or 800-371-2971
July 26-29, 2007 Swiss Days Throughout downtown , Berne, Indiana	In its 36th year the festival offers games and rides, arts and crafts, Agape Sports League ball game, quilt show, jazz, merchant specials, antique engine and equipment on display, talent showcase, pancake breakfast on Saturday at the fire station from 6-10am, tennis tournament, parade Saturday at 6pm, fireworks, theatre, sand sculpture competition, 5K/1-mile runs, bowling tournament, Swiss Steintoss Competition, festival foods, climbing wall, water wars, Big Wheel race and more. Additional Information: Call 260-589-8080
July 26-29, 2007 Paducah Summer Festival various venues, Paducah, Kentucky	Senior bingo, chalk art, photo and art exhibit, photo competition, crafts, food vendors, pet parade, food vendors, pageant, fireworks on the river, contemporary Christian music concert, Big Wheel race, greased pole contest, doughnut eating contest, Oreo stacking contest, competitive cross-river swim, world's largest checkerboard, library book sale, Habitat for Humanity Show of Homes, youth triathlon, radio-controlled model planes. More: Call 800-PADUCAH
July 26-29, 2007 Munger Potato Festival Community Park, Munger, Michigan	Casino games, teen dance, parade, potato sack races, entertainment, demolition derby, lots of free potatoes, chicken BBQ, Mr. Potato Head Contest, Figure Eight Derby, bingo, carnival. There is no admission charge. It's the festival's 53rd season. Further Questions? Call 989-659-3471 or 989-659-2496
July 26-29, 2007 Turkey Days Downtown, Frazee, Minnesota	Parade on E. Main (Sunday at 1:15pm), car show on Sunday (10am-1pm), Frazee High School Class of '72 reunion (Saturday night at the golf course club house), pageant, turkey calling contest, kids' fishing tournament, greased pole climb, coins in the straw, wheelbarrow races, 3-legged races, beer garden, 5K run, Little League Baseball. The event is celebrating 53 years in 2007. Details: Call 800-407-2488
July 27-28, 2007 Hot Dog Festival Downtown, Frankfort, Indiana	Hot dogs with all the toppings, car show, flea market, beer garden, 5K Bun Walk and Run (Sat. at 8am), arts and crafts, Puppy Park (for the kids), Dogie Dive, sidewalk sales, entertainment. Get The Facts: Call 765-654-4081
July 27-28, 2007 Louisiana Watermelon Festival Downtown, Farmerville, Louisiana	Who will bring in the prize for the biggest melon this 44th year? Last year Rusty Sistrunk took the honors with a 218.8-pounder! Along with the melon growing competition you can enjoy arts and crafts, a pageant, food booths, parade and more. Info: Call 318-368-0044
July 27-29, 2007 Gilroy Garlic Festival Christmas Hill Park, Gilroy, California	Now in it's 29th year, the festival lures us with the unmistakable aroma of those pungent cloves. Grab your sunscreen and your hat and get ready to feast on garlic poppers, meatball sandwiches, garlic in stir-fry dishes, crepes on a stick, garlic kettlekorn and even garlic ice cream. Chefs in Gourmet Alley chop, roast, fry and steam and they use garlic in everything from bread to dessert. Enjoy 3 stages of entertainment, arts and crafts, festival merchandise, activities for kids and a Garlic Idol competition and the Got Milk Gravity Tour. Among those scheduled to bring music to the stage are Los High Tops, Brad Wilson, Silver Creek and PT & the Cruzers. There is an admission charge, with seniors (over age 60) and kids 6-12 paying half price. Kids age 6 and under get in free. Please, no coolers, pocket knives, outside beverage containers or pets. (Service animals are always welcomed at festivals.) More Details: Call 408-842-1625
July 27-29, 2007 Pierogi Fest 119th St. area downtown, Whiting, Indiana	The Babushka Brigade and Pieroguettes will entertain you for hours while you enjoy arts and crafts, polka bands, a beer garden, Eastern Bloc Jeopardy, a pierogi eating contest on Sunday afternoon, pierogi toss competition (also on Sunday). There's a polka parade and you can dunk some local personality or other in the dunk tank, if your aim is good. After you wear out your throwing arm you can treat yourself to pizza, Cajun seafood, stuffed cabbage, cheese blintes, roasted glazed nuts, BBQ chicken, paczke, fried green tomatoes, sauerkraut, potato pancakes, nachos, pierogis, chocolate cake, lemonade, caramel apples, freshly squeezed juice and ice cream. Hours are 11am-10pm on Friday and Saturday and 11am-5pm on Sunday. Questions? Call 505-682-1151
July 27-29, 2007 Blueberry Art Festival Whiteside Park, Ely, Minnesota	There is usually a really good Lions Club blueberry pancake breakfast at this event, but I've been unable to verify it at this writing. Hopefully, everyone can get their fill of tasty berry pancakes. Meanwhile, plan to enjoy more than 300 booths full of arts, crafts and festival foods. The Barich Brothers and Chromatones are among those scheduled to provide musical entertainment and there will be a special area of fun just for kids. There is no admission charge. Please leave pets safely at home when you come to enjoy the festival. Hours are noon-7pm on Friday, 10am-6pm on Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sunday. Find Out More: Call 218-365-6123
July 27-29, 2007 Blueberry Festival various venues, Lake George, Minnesota	Pie sale, blueberry pancake breakfast, bed races, Firemen's Bean Feed, karaoke, horseshoe pitching tournament, beer tent, parade, quilt show, pedal tractor pull, flea market, arts and crafts, children's carnival, gospel music, festival foods. It's the festival's 24th season. Details: Call 218-256-3977 or 218-266-2915
July 27-29, 2007 Bele Chere Downtown, Ashville, North Carolina	Dozens of bands perform, plus you can browse more than 150 arts and crafts booths, commercial booths and non-profit booths. There are activities for kids plus the Bele Chere Urban Challenge. Among music scheduled this year: Zydefunk, Jupitor Coyote, Christine Kane, Lew Buddha, Bone Pony and Lovin' Spoonful. Additional Information: Call 828-259-5800
July 27-29, 2007 Black Gold Festival various venues, Ardmore, Oklahoma	Pet parade, street dance, tailgate cook-off, pioneer breakfast, gospel singing in Central Park, an oil gusher (actually made up of water, courtesy of the Fire Department). Details: Call 580-226-6246
July 27-29, 2007 Covington Days 1700 SE 272nd Street, Covington, Washington	Musical entertainment, skateboard events, 5K run/walk, commercial booths, carnival, quilt show, fireworks, arts and crafts, classic cars, non-profit booths, activities for kids, food, parade. The festival celebrates 22 years in 2007. Get The Facts: Call 425-432-9140
July 27-29, 2007 Aquafest various venues, Lake Stevens, Washington	Food court, Aqua Idol, Fifty-Dollar Boat Races, 3-on-3 basketball tournament, water ski/wakeboard tournament, pet show, children's parade, grand parade on Sat. at 11pm, disc golf competition, pizza eating contest, motorcycle show, photo contest, firefighter breakfast (Sat. & Sun. 6am-noon), duck dash, diaper dash, Rain Gutter Regatta, Aquarun (10K/5K/Kids Fun Run), fireworks, triathlon, Windemere Aquarium (July 28), magic show, music from Shadrack and from Jimmy Free's Friends. More: Call 425-397-2344
July 27-29, 2007 Tour de Terrace Festival 56th St. between 220th & 224th, Mountain Terrace, Washington	This 14th year you can enjoy musical entertainment, food booths, a parade, pancake breakfast (Sat. & Sun. from 8am-noon), arts and crafts, a beer garden, carnival, car show, fireworks. Hours are noon-11pm on Friday, 9am-11pm on Saturday and 9am-6pm on Sunday. Additional Info: Call 425-776-7331
July 27-29, 2007 Upper Ohio Valley Italian Festival Heritage Point, Wheeling, West Virginia	Activities for kids, Italian dance bands, pasta exhibit, carnival games, bocce tournament, food, arts and crafts. Proceeds go toward scholarships. It's the festival's 25th year. Get the Facts: Call 304-233-1090
July 27-29, 2007 Derby Days Cory Park, Dousman, Wisconsin	Softball tournament, fireworks, Derby Dash, frog jump, parade, carnival, entertainment, more. Have fun at this 52nd year! Details: Call 262-965-3128 or 262-985-3043
July 27-August 5, 2007 Coast Guard Festival Waterfront area, Grand Haven, Michigan	Tours of a Coast Guard cutter, arts and crafts, carnival midway, fireworks, Coast Guard sporting events, pancake breakfast on July 29 from 8am-noon, entertainment, bike tours, 10K/1-mile run/walk, water ski show, teen movie night, pet expo, grand parade, quilt show, activities for children, tributes to the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard. Learn More: Call 616-846-5940 or 888-207-2434
July 27-August 5, 2007 Pro Football Hall of Fame Festival 2121 George Halas Dr. NW, Canton, Ohio	Balloon Classic Invitational, Rib Burnoff, festival foods, music, a parade, fireworks, Hall of Fame Game and more. Further Details: Call 330-456-8207
July 28, 2007 Lambtown USA Festival Hall Park at 600 East A St., Dixon, California	In its 21st year the festival offers a raffle, cooking contests, an alpaca show, beer booths and food vendors, livestock shows, arts and crafts, multi-cultural entertainment, a spinning competition, fine arts show, workshops on spinning and dyeing fibers, sheep shearing demo, fiber booths and more. Festival hours are 9am-6pm. Info: Call 707-678-7386
July 28, 2007 Blueberry Festival Fruitland Township Park on Nestrom Rd., Whitehall, Michigan	Arts and crafts, activities for kids, tours of White River Light Station, bluwberry pancake breakfast and more. Questions? Call 231-766-3208
July 28, 2007 North Carolina Blackberry Festival Downtown, Lenoir, North Carolina	Presentation of colors ceremony at noon, bluegrass (and other) music, pageant, blackberry eating contest, activities for kids, fresh blackberries for sale, arts and crafts, festival merchandise, festival foods. The event runs from 10am-7pm. Get The Facts: Call 828-728-0616 or 828-726-0323
July 28-29, 2007 Salsa Festival Plaza Park, Oxnard, California	This year's event is the 14th. Enjoy Latin and Salsa music, the Great Oxnard Salsa Challenge (recipe contest), activities for kids, commercial vendors, food court, arts and crafts, gourmet sauces for sale, salsa tasting tent, more. Please, no pets or coolers. There is no admission charge and the festival runs from 11am-7pm. Further Information: Call 805-247-0197
July 29, 2007 Pear Fair Downtown, Courtland, California	Parade at noon, arts and crafts, music (and other) entertainment, pear smoothies, classic cars, pear fritters, beer and wine garden, pear pie, cooking demos, 5 and 10-mile Pear Fair Run. There is no admission charge but the parking fee is ten dollars. Proceeds from the event go to benefit the Courtland Volunteer Fire Department and also to provide scholarships to students. Additional Details: Call 916-775-2000
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July Somethings! Brief, bare-boned last-minute festival listings:
July 1-7 Punxsutawney Groundhog Festival (41st), Barclay Square, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, 800-752-PHIL July 3-4 Dogpatch Reunion, Sylvester, West Virginia, 304-854-0330 July 3-7 Gallipolis River Recreation Festival, Riverfront, Gallipolis, Ohio, 740-446-0596 July 4 Americana Festival, various venues, Centerville, Ohio, 937-433-5898 July 4-7 Benedum Festival, Bridgeport, West Virginia, 800-368-4324 July 5-7 Point Pleasant Sternwheel Regatta & River Festival, Point Pleasant, West Virginia, 304-675-6788 July 5-8 Roswell UFO Festival, Roswell, New Mexico, 888-ROS-FEST July 6-8 Dairy Festival, Elsie, Michigan, 989-862-5210 or 989-834-2132 July 6-8 Come Home to Salamanca, various venues, Salamanca, New York, 716-945-2034 July 6-8 Stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festival, Stoweflake Resort, Stowe, Vermont, 800-253-2232 July 6-8 100th Birthday Celebration, Irvine Park, Wisconsin, 715-723-3890 July 7 Hanover Tomato Festival (29th), 9am-4pm, Pole Green Park, Hanover, Virginia, 804-550-4705 July 7-8 Sugar Creek Arts Festival (24th), 10am-5pm, Uptown at North Street/Quad area, Normal, Illinois, 309-454-9557 July 7-8 July Jamboree, Zenith Park, Cloudcroft, New Mexico, 505-682-2733 July 7-8 Meet Me in Mill Creek Festival, 11am-6pm, Main Street, Mill Creek, Washington, 425-745-1891 July 11-15 Bear Paw Festival, Eagle River, Alaska, 907-694-4702 July 11-15 Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts (41st),                    Penn State University campus & downtown, State College, Pennsylvania, 814-237-3682 July 12-13 Truckers Jamboree, Iowa 80 Truckstop, Walcott, Iowa, 563-284-6961 July 12-14 Crazy Days, various venues, Broken Bow, Nebraska, 308-8722-5691 July 12-15 Sorrento Cheese Buffalo Italian Heritage Festival (31st), Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, New York, 716-874-6133 ext. 17 July 13-14 Batesville Summerfest/Berryfest, downtown, Batesville, Indiana, 812-934-3101 or 812-933-6116 July 13-14 Michigan Elvisfest, Riverside Park, Ypsilanti, Michigan, 734-480-3974 ext. 2 July 13-14 Chicken Show & Henoween, Bressler Park, Wayne, Nebraska, 402-375-2240 July 13-15 Greek Heritage Festival (10th), 186 Bradley, Saco, Maine, 207-284-5651 July 13-15 Nabor Days, Riverview Park, Cadott, Wisconsin, 715-289-3338 July 14 Ice Cream Festival, Leitchfield, Kentucky, 270-259-3165 July 14 New Deal Festival, Arthurdale, West Virginia, 304-864-3959 July 14-15 International Mango Festival, Fairchild Botanical Garden, Coral Gales, Florida, 305-667-1651 July 14-15 Wheaton Fine Art Fair (5th), downtown, Wheaton, Illinois, 630-682-0633 July 14-15 Haddonfield Crafts & Fine Arts Festival, downtown, Haddonfield, New Jersey, 856-216-7253 July 14-15 Oatka Festival (19th), Le Roy, New York, 585-768-7433 July 14-15 Corn Hill Arts Festival, Rochester, New York, 585-262-3142 July 16 Farmers Day Festival, Main Street, China Grove, North Carolina, 704-857-8811 July 18-21 Crawford County Fair, Hood Park, Cuba, Missouri, 877-212-8429 July 19-21 Polish Festival, Bronson, Michigan, 517-369-7334 or 800-968-9333 July 19-22 Iron Heritage Festival, various venues, Danville, Pennsylvania, 570-275-6700 July 20-21 Paw Paw Days, downtown, Paw Paw, Michigan, 269-657-5395 July 20-21 Riverfest, Haworth Riverfront Park, Bellevue, Nebraska, 402-898-3000 July 20-22 Rib Fest, Dreamcatcher Park, Cass Lake, Minnesota, 218-335-22250 or 800-356-8615 July 20-22 Grease Pole Festival, 261 Swan Street, Buffalo, New York, 716-852-1648 July 20-22 Stir-Up Days, Ashland, Nebraska, 402-944-3613 July 20-22 Downtown Days Festival,                    Hungry Mother State Park & Marion downtown area, Marion, Virginia, 276-783-4190 July 20-22 Lavender Festival (11th), Sequim, Washington, 877-681-3035 July 21 Gold Digger Days, Greenville, California, 530-284-6633 July 21 Oldham County Days, La Grange, Kentucky, 502-222-4454 or 502-222-1635 July 22 WWISCAA Food Festival & Hot Tamale Contest,                    County Convention Center, Greenville, Mississippi, 662-378-8663 or 800-820-8204 July 23-29 Feast of Lanterns, various venues, Pacific Grove, California, 831-649-8737 July 25-28 East Rochester Fire Department Carnival, high school grounds, East Rochester, New York, 585-223-9220 July 26-29 Barre Homecoming Days, various venues, Barre, Vermont, 802-476-1812 July 27-28 Altus Grape Festival, City Park, Altus, Arkansas, 479-468-4684 July 27-28 Wells Fargo Street Festival, 2nd Street area, Davenport, Iowa, 563-823-3694 July 27-29 Bologna Festival, downtown, Yale, Michigan, 810-387-9253 July 27-29 Lebanese Festival (9th),                    St. John Maron Church at 2040 Wehrle Drive, Williamsville, New York, 716-634-0669 July 27-29 Town & Country Jamboree, City Park, Moulton, Texas, 361-596-7205 July 28 Dutch Festival, 8am-4pm, Center Square, Hanover, Pennsylvania, 717-637-6130 July 28-29 Johnson County Peach Festival, Town Square, Clarksville, Arkansas, 479-754-9152 July 28-29 Geneva Arts Fair, 10am-5pm, S. Third Street, Geneva, Illinois, 630-232-6060 July 28-29 Old Olcott Days, Lakeview Village Shoppes, Olcott, New York, 716-735-7489 July 29 Watermelon Festival, Chapman Park, Stanley, Wisconsin, 715-644-5880 June 30 Archey Fork Summer Festival, City Park, Clinton, Arkansas, 501-745-7222 June 30 Strawberry Festival, Central School Grounds on Main St., S. Berwick, Maine, 207-354-3208 June 30 Catch the Glow, Main Street, Warrenton, Missouri, 636-456-1917 June 30 Blueberry Festival (24th), Whitesbog Village, Browns Mills, New Jersey, 609-893-4646
Other July 2007 Events You Might Enjoy Events in this section may also be called festivals but are generally less multi-dimensional than events in the above category
June 1-2 West Coast Antique Fly-in, Municipal Airport, Merced, California, 209-384-2791 June 2-3 Super-con, Convention Center (South Hall), San Jose, California, swyatt@super-con.com June 2-3 Rubber Stamp & Paper Arts Festival, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield, Massachusetts, 413-737-2443 June 2-3 Art in the Park, Stephens College, Columbia, Missouri, 573-443-8838 or 573-443-2131 June 2-3 Sassy Classic Vintage Baseball Festival, Stuhr Museum, Grand Island, Nebraska, 308-385-5316 July 3 High Sierra Beard & Mustache Championships, Olympic Valley, California, 530-581-3940 July 4-6 International Food Festival (22nd), Mattson Lower Harbor Park, Marquette, Michigan, 906-475-5945 July 6-8 CONvergence 2007, Sheraton Bloomington Hotel on S. Normandale, Bloomington, Minnesota, 651-647-3487 July 7 World's Largest Salmon Barbecue (36th), 11am-6pm, Fort Bragg, California, 707-964-1228 July 7 Burklyn Arts Council Summer Craft Fair, 10am-4pm, Village Green, Lyndonville, Vermont, 802-626-5836 July 7-8 Plein Air Art Festival, 8am-5pm & 11am-3pm, Old Monterey, Monterey, California, 831-655-8070 July 8 Northeast Nebraska Toy Show (20th), Community College Learning Center, Norfolk, Nebraska, 402-329-6210 July 12-15 Crooksville-Roseville Pottery Festival (42nd), Village Park, Roseville, Ohio, 740-982-2712 July 13-14 Be Cool Car Show, downtown, Bay City, Michigan, 989-892-2567 July 13-15 Shore Leave, Marriott's Hunt Valley Inn, Baltimore, Maryland, 410-496-4456 July 13-15 Art in the Park (28th), Kellogg Park, Plymouth, Michigan, 734-454-1314 July 13-15 Great Texas Balloon Race, County Airport, Longview, Texas, 903-237-4040 July 14-15 North Shore Art Festival, 10am-6pm, Westfield (Old Orchard Mall) parking lot, Skokie, Illinois, 847-673-0240 July 14-15 Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Festival, Telstar High School, Bethel, Maine, 207-824-3611 July 14-15 Charlevoix Arts & Crafts Show, Mason St. area, Charlevoix, Michigan, 231-547-2101 or 800-951-2101 July 14-15 Antique & Collectibles Show, Expo Center, Portland, Oregon, 503-282-0877 July 14-15 Bridal Show, 10am-5pm, Dallas Market Hall, Dallas, Texas, 972-713-9920 July 14-15 RAVE Car Show, State Fairgrounds on Rt. 7 South, Rutland, Vermont, 802-265-8026 July 18-21 Street Art Fair (48th), Ann Arbor, Michigan, 800-888-9497 July 19 House & Garden Tour Day (60th), 9:30am-4pm, Camden, Maine, 207-236-7045 July 19-22 California Rodeo Salinas (97th), Salinas, California, 831-775-3100 or 800-771-8807 July 20-21 Hollywood Collectors & Celebrities Show,                    11am-6pm & 10am-5pm, Burbank Airport Marriot Hotel, Burbank, California, 818-843-6000 July 20-21 Pottery Lovers Show & Sale, Laughlin Civic Center, Cambridge, Ohio, 800-933-5480 July 20-22 U.S. Grand Prix, Laguna Seca, Salinas, California, 831-242-8201 July 20-22 Flashback Weekend, Crown Plaza Chicago O' Hare, Rosemont, Illinois, Email flashbackweekend@ameritech.net July 20-22 & 27-29 Summer Boat Show, Market Hall, Dallas, Texas, 469-549-0673 July 21 Rose Parade, Newark, New York, 315-573-4067 July 21 Shipwreck Day, downtown, Anacortes, Washington, 360-293-7911 July 21-22 Heirloom Rubber Stamp & Paper Arts Festival,                    10am-5pm & 11am-4pm, Convention Center, Grapevine, Texas, 817-410-3459 or 541-574-8000 July 21-29 Cheyenne Frontier Days, Frontier Park, Cheyenne, Wyoming, 800-227-6336 July 22 Wharf-to-Wharf Race, Santa Cruz, California, 831-475-2196 July 26-29 Comic-Con International, Convention Center, San Diego, California, 619-491-2475 July 26-28 Nebraska's Big Rodeo, Junction of State Hwys. 11 & 91, Burwell, Nebraska, 308-346-50110 July 27-29 Fortuna Redwood AutoXpo, Fortuna, California, 707-725-3916 July 27-29 Grand Prix, downtown, San Jose, California, 408-277-9470 July 27-29 European Motorcycle Meet, Sunday River Ski Resort, Bethel, Maine, 800-282-0139 July 27-29 Maine Quilts Show, Civic Center, Augusta, Maine, 207-577-0648 July 27-29 State Craft Fair (60th),                    Frankin & Marshall College Alumni Sports & Fitness Center, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, 215-579-5997 July 27-29 LibertyCon, Comfort Inn at 6710 Ringgold Rd. (East Ridge), Chattanooga, Tennessee, Email uncletimmy@libertycon.org July 27-29 North Kitsap Arts & Crafts Festival, Port Gamble, Washington, 360-842-6100 or 360-297-2490 July 28 Henry County Harvest Showcase (8th),                    10am-4pm, County Fairgrounds, New Castle, Kentucky, 502-845-0806 or 502-845-5707 July 28 Fun in the Sun Car & Truck Show, McMichael High School, Mayodan, North Carolina, 336-932-0441 July 28-29 High Country Arts & Crafts Festival, Eagle Nest, New Mexico, 505-377-2420 July 28-29 Pittsburgh Toy, Comic & Childhood Collectibles Show (also called Steel City Con),                    Expo Mart, Monroeville, Pennsylvania, 814-467-1500 July 28-29 Mountain Market Arts & Crafts Show,                    near Hannah Pickett Memorial Park, Monteagle, Tennessee, 931-924-5530 or 931-924-2265 July 29 Moss Landing Antique Street Fair (37th), 8am-5pm, Moss Landing, California, 831-633-4501 July 29 Art in the Park (47th), City Park, Appleton, Wisconsin, 920-733-4089 June 29-July 1 Pacific Northwest Historics Vintage Auto Races (19th), Pacific Raceways, Kent, Washington, 206-987-2777 July 30-31 Daylily Festival & Sale, 8am-6pm, Devon Point Farm, Orwell, Vermont, 802-948-2398
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It's always best to call ahead to verify festival information. Please tell them you saw the listing in Deb's Monthly Review.

Look at this guy!

This is Scott L. Schwartz. If you ever get into trouble, you'll want him on your side. This guy means business. And his business is playing big and bad. Big may come easy, because he's 6'10" and weighs about 300 pounds. I'm not sure how he pulls off the bad part though, because he actually seems to be very... Well, never mind. Just click on the banner and get ready for some action. www.ultimatebadguy.com

Once upon a time there was a man with a gentle voice and quiet charm. He made several movies and worked in a TV show playing a character who rode a motorcycle from town to town, touching lives, and singing a little here and there. Then some of us didn't hear much of him for awhile. We wondered if he would ever come to sing for us again.
Michael Parks is singing, and he recorded 17 songs for us to enjoy, including: I'll Never Be Free Basin Street Blues Don't Go To Strangers Easy Street This CD was a long time coming, but it was worth waiting for. Take a trip to Listen Recordings where you can order your copy.

Above: Metallic Choker Necklace Left: Dreamcatcher Earrings

Joan Garnand creates from her home in Tennessee. Her design styles range from simple elegance to whimsical fun. Joan does hand-painted stationery, uses spare moments at festivals to paint faces, and entertains children at private parties. A sample of her work is illustrated online. Talk to her about what you're looking for!

Ever since William Malmskog and I began a dialogue I've been impressed by his willingness to share openly the details of his life. Most of us hide a lot of our lives from others and present only the parts we can polish and make look acceptable. He isn't afraid to talk about how his difficulties, including physical challenges, have guided him to an increased sense of abilities and possibilities.

I have a special place in my heart for people who allow themselves to be vulnerable enough to show us their pain. But this isn't about being a victim. It's about using adversity as a stepping stone to new challenges and then helping the rest of us do the same. When he sends me welcome updates of what he's been doing I know he's going to bring me something I can bite into and use in my own daily challenges. Please take time to visit his web site and explore the man who calls himself the Crazy Viking.

If your rhododendrons ramble and your white carnations rant, If your radishes reiterate and scold your spider plant, If all you hear is whispering along the garden walk, Then you could be dealing with a sassy bunch of plants that talk. There's a site from Rutgers that might be just for you. Check out If Plants Could Talk.
All about Butter		Sometimes clouds look like other things.
All the fun isn't in big cities. You don't have to head to Los Angeles, Orlando or New York to pack a lot into a vacation trip. The Blue Ridge Parkway takes you to scenic parks and into small towns full of music, crafts, theatre, wine tasting, historic sites and friendly people. The Stuhr Museum in Grand Island, Nebraska has used its frontier town buildings to lend many a feature film authenticity and atmosphere. You may have never heard of Pacific Grove, California, but the town is a winter haven to many—not only people, but butterflies too! Monarchs migrate to Pacific Grove to spend the colder months and then head out again just before spring. A place called Leakey may not sound like much of a tourist destination, but those who travel to Texas are charmed by the area's hills and canyons and the draw of water activities on the Frio River. And if you're lucky enough to arrange a tour, you can visit nearby Devil's Sinkhole. So branch out, and discover the fun of small towns in America!

(Link broken—Zinos.com is up for sale.)

Send Deb email: deb@lightpatch.com

Last Updated June 24, 2007

Deb's Monthly Review © copyright Deb Thompson