Deb's Monthly Review

May 2006

Editor: Deb Thompson deb@lightpatch.com

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

Special Quotation "Live in such a way that you would not be ashamed to sell your parrot to the town gossip." --Will Rogers

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	The Artsy Site Of The Month: Magic Carpet Use Shockwave to draw your own ride		Handy Site Of The Month: HassleMe Need someone to nag you to get things done? They'll do it.
	Just Fun Site Of The Month: National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum Hall of Famers photos and more		Scientific/Technical Site Of The Month: Doomsday Clock: Current Time Where we are in nuclear danger time

 May 2006 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 May Festivals and other events for travelers in the U.S.

Please Note: Because of the very active hurricane season 2005, many festivals have been scaled back or cancelled. It's especially important that you verify all festival information. Once affected areas are tidied up and restored, your support of local events and festivals will be a great way to help the local economy and our national economy in general.

May 2-7, 2006 Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival various venues, Winchester, Virginia	Parades, pageant, golf tournament, Westminster-Canterbury Breakfast Walk on Rt. 522 North, apple pie baking contest, carnival, firefighter events, circus, jazz ensemble competition, sports breakfast, teen dance, activities for kids, square dance, bluegrass festival, jazz and other music, car cruise-in, arts and crafts, food vendors. Additional Details: Call 540-662-3863
May 2-14, 2006 Contraband Days Civic Center and other venues, Lake Charles, Louisiana	Celebrating its 49th year, the festival offers a watercolor show, family night, carnival rides, theatre, state choral competition, food booths, concerts, an appearance from the Budweiser Clydesdales, lumberjack show, helicopter rides, beach volleyball, Blazin' Bikes, sailboat regatta, Cajun BBQ Pirate Cook Off, Spittin' Image Contest and an arm wrestling tournament. Of course, there's also the traditional storming of the seawall by pirates and the capture and trial of the mayor—all in great fun. Enjoy a parade, naval craft tours, a tribute to Elvis and much more. Get the Facts: Call 337-436-5508
May 4-6, 2006 Tulip Time various venue(s), Pella, Iowa	Klompen Classic 5K Run/walk, antique window displays, activities for kids, flower show, theatre, lighted volks parade, pancake breakfast, farm implement display, volks parade, arts and crafts, organ concert, children's art show, garden tours, quilt show, entertainment. Some events may be ticketed separately or require advance reservations. Information: Call 641-628-4311
May 4-6, 2006 Black Gold Days Black Gold Park, Glenpool, Oklahoma	Talent showcase, bluegrass festival, tractor show, tractor pull, horseshoe pitching tournament, arts and crafts, gospel music, carnival, parade, food vendors. Further Details: Call 918-322-3505
May 4-7, 2006 Wild Turkey Festival Downtown, Mcarthur, Ohio	Parade on Saturday, car show, entertainment, food vendors, carnival, pageant, quilt show. Enjoy the fun during this 22nd year of the festival. Learn More: Call 740-596-8506
May 4-7, 2006 Mayfest Trinity Park on University Dr., Fort Worth, Texas	Arts and crafts, 10K/5K/1K fun run, children's area, an impressive 7 stages of entertainment, festival merchandise, food and more. Questions? Call 817-332-1055
May 6, 2006 Fried Onion Burger Day Festival unknown venues, El Reno, Oklahoma	Entertainment, arts and crafts, food, car show, motorcycle show. Be prepared for a very large burger weighing in at more than 800 pounds. Get The Facts: Call 888-535-7366
May 6, 2006 Chisholm Trail Stampede Heritage Center, Duncan, Oklahoma	Chuck wagon cook-off, activities for kids, entertainment, Western parade, commercial vendors, Western art, Festival of the Cowboys, 5K walk/run, rodeo events. The fun runs from 8am-11pm. Additional Details: Call 800-782-7167
May 5, 2006 Brickfest Santa Fe Plaza, Pauls Valley, Oklahoma	Food vendors, brick throwing contest, 3-on-3 basketball, car show, entertainment, arts and crafts, activities for kids. Further Information: Call 405-238-2555
May 5-6, 2006 Ozark Days Festival City Park, Eminence, Missouri	National Wild Turkey Federation wild turkey calling contest, music, arts and crafts, food, games, auction and more. A carnival opens early, on Thursday night. Get the facts: Call 573-226-3318
May 5-7, 2006 Armadillo Festival Downtown Square, Hamburg, Arkansas	Music, carnival, puppet shows, pageant, armadillo weigh-in and races, arts and crafts, festival foods. Additional Information: Call 870-853-8345
May 6, 2006 Turtle Days Street Fair Downtown, Joshua Tree, California	Music, food, activities for kids, arts and crafts. Learn More: Call 760-366-3723
May 6, 2006 Prague Kolache Festival City Park & Main Street, Prague, Oklahoma	In its 47th year the festival offers a carnival, quilt show, food booths, music, 5K run, a postal cancellation, tractor show, Beseda dance, kolache eating contest, arts and crafts, and plenty of kolache pastries. Find Out Details: Call 405-567-4866
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May 6, 2006 Heart and Soul Festival various churches, Houston, Texas	Enjoy bell choirs, vocal choirs, organists, art and special tours of 16 area churches. Refreshments will be available in several locations and hosts will fill you in on the history of the church buildings and their architectural significance. Learn More: Call 713-526-9123
May 6-7, 2006 Apple Blossom Festival S. Mountain Fairgrounds on Rte. 234, Arendtsville, Pennsylvania	Now in its 51st year, this festival offers spring looks at orchards and blossoms, arts and crafts, activities for kids, entertainment, classic cars on display and food. Questions? Call 717-677-7444 or 717-334-6274
May 6-7, 2006 Whistlestop Festival Downtown, Ashdown, Arkansas	Antique cars, motorcycle show, Little River Challenge Bike Race, antiques, 5K run/walk, 2K walk, arts and crafts, chili cook-off, activities for kids, festival foods. There is no admission charge. Further Info: Call 870-898-2642
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.
May 6-13, 2006 Tulip Time Festival various venues, Holland, Michigan	The festival celebrates its 77th year with dense tulip displays all over town, tulip trolley tours, a Dutch Trade Fair, carnival, fireworks, activities for kids, themed parades, traditional Dutch meals, beer garden, arts and crafts, army reenactors and its Town Crier Contest. Among entertainment scheduled at this writing are Three Dog Night, Frankie Avalon and the Oak Ridge Boys. There is no admission charge to the festival but some activities may have a separate fee or require reservations. Learn More: Call 800-822-2770
May 7-13, 2006 West Tennessee Strawberry Festival area parks, Humboldt, Tennessee	Antique tractor show, parades (including a pet parade), horse show, BBQ cook-off, strawberry recipe contest, golf tournament, arts and crafts, car show, 5K & 10K run, kiddie carnival, fireworks. There will also be music. One band scheduled to perform at this writing is Tequila Sunrise. Get Information: Call 731-784-1842
May 11-13, 2006 Strawberry Homefest Berry Sheds on Hwy. 367, Bald Knob, Arkansas	Arts and crafts, pancake breakfast, pie eating contest, parade, carnival, Mr Bald Knob contest, classic cars, strawberry shortcake, fresh strawberries for sale, entertainment, cake walk, local class reunions. There is no admission charge. Come and have fun in the festival's 19th year. Questions? Call 501-724-3140
May 11-14, 2006 Cherry Blossom Festival Lake Anna Park, Barberton, Ohio	Fishing derby, exhibits, parade, contests, entertainment, carnival rides, festival foods. Further Details: Call 330-745-3733
May 11-14, 2006 Rooster Days Festival Central Park, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma	Arts and crafts, entertainment, carnival, trade show and more. Information: Call 916-251-1518
May 11-13, 2006 Strawberry Festival Downtown, Stilwell, Oklahoma	Pageant, free strawberries with cake and ice cream, arts and crafts, entertainment, carnival, food vendors, 5K run, parade. There will also be a rodeo near town that weekend. The festival is celebrating its 59th year. Get The Facts: Call 918-696-7735 or 918-696-7845
May 11-14, 2006 Apple Blossom Festival Wapato Way, Manson, Washington	Student art, pancake breakfast (Sat. 6-9am), parade, arts and crafts, car and motorcycle show, quilt show, chicken noodle dinner, Edible Apple contest, food vendors, rock & mineral show. Additional Details: Call 509-687-3833
May 12-13, 2006 Picklefest Downtown, Atkins, Arkansas	Horseshoe tournament, activities for kids, fried dill pickles, arts and crafts, pageant for children, rodeo parade, 3-on-3 basketball, tractor pull, pickle juice drinking contest, pickle eating contest, food vendors. Enjoy this 15th year of the festival, which has undergone a name change or two, but seems to have settled back into being Picklefest. Learn More: Call 479-641-2363 or 479-641-1993
May 12-13, 2006 Free State of Yell Fest Veterans Memorial Park, Dardanelle, Arkansas	5K run/walk, arts and crafts, carnival, classic cars, Ugly Dog contest, yelling contest, horseshoe tournament, fireworks, festival foods. The festival is celebrating its 17th year. Details: Call 479-229-3328
May 12-13, 2006 Rough & Ready Days Festival McCloy Park, Monticello, Arkansas	In its 10th year the festival offers a 5K run, activities for kids, pancake breakfast, arts and crafts, chicken cook-off, fishing derby, auction, car show, entertainment, vendors. More Information: Call 870-367-6741
May 12-13, 2006 Apple Blossom Festival unknown venue(s), Elkhorn City, Kentucky	The fun starts at 10am and runs until 11pm. Enjoy a parade, vendors, festival foods, arts and crafts and musical entertainment. Further Details: Call 606-754-5080 or 606-754-9057
May 12-13, 2006 International Bar-B-Q Festival Riverfront, Owensboro, Kentucky	They pack a lot into this weekend event with cooking competitions, a bench press competition, pageants, carnival games and rides, keg toss, pie eating contest, the Army National Guard Obstacle Course, 5K run/walk, Burgoo Relay, arts and crafts, car show, beer garden, horseshoe pitching contest and more. Questions? Call 800-489-1131
May 12-14, 2006 Dogwood Festival Greenfield Hill Congregational Church, 1045 Old Academy Road, Fairfield, Connecticut	The festival celebrates its 71st year with crafts, an art show, walking tours, baked goods, performances by local bands and choirs, plants and flowers. Lunch is served, by reservation. The event benefits many local charities. Further Info: Call 203-259-5596
May 12-14, 2006 Taste Addison Addison Circle Park, Addison, Texas	Enjoy music by Hootie and the Blowfish (and other bands), take in a magic show and flea circus, sample foods from from more than 50 area restaurants, enjoy arts and crafts, cooking demonstrations, games and rides. Find Out More: Call 972-450-2851
May 12-20, 2006 Strawberry Festival Downtown, Portland, Tennessee	It's the 65th year for this one. Enjoy a parade, a carnival, Strawberry Stride 5K/1 mile race, pancake breakfast, music, arts and crafts, drawings for prizes, food, kiddie parade, talent showcase, prayer breakfast and more. The event coincides with the Hwy. 52 yard sale, which features 80 miles of sale items. (For more information on the sale only, call 931-243-3338.) Questions? Call 615-325-9032
May 13, 2006 Black Bart Festival Downtown, Cloverdale, California	The area once had a bandit who was also a poet of sorts. So the town takes a backward glance at this colorful character with a celebration that includes a pancake breakfast (8-11am), street dance, wine tasting, trade show, cow chip toss, bathtub races, activities, BBQ, arts and crafts, lumberjack show, RV show. It's the festival's 15th year. Further Information: Call 701-894-4470
May 13, 2006 Watermelon Festival Canterbury Equestrian Showplace, 23100 W. Newberry Road, Newberry, Florida	Pageant, baking contests, hog calling contest, watermelon roll for kids age 5 and younger, watermelon eating contest, watermelon seed spitting contest, carnival, melon growing competition, entertainment, arts and crafts, parade, food, rides and games, free sliced watermelon, 5K run. Details: Call 352-316-6628
May 13, 2006 Poke Salad Festival unknown venues, Blanchard, Louisiana	Arts and crafts, parade, carnival, entertainment, street dance. Questions? Call 318-222-9391
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May 13, 2006 Cherry Fest Downtown, Whitehouse, Ohio	It's the 24th occurrence of this event, which is now sponsored by the Whitehouse Chamber of Commerce. Enjoy a parade, arts and crafts, 10K/3mile race and 1 mile kids race, food and more. Further Information: Call 419-887-2747
May 13, 2006 Nettie Davenport Day Downtown, Davenport, Oklahoma	In its 30th year the festival offers arts and crafts, games and contests, class reunions, banquets and more. One of its unusual events is the parade, which travels down brick-lined Broadway Avenue and then makes a U-turn and goes back down the road in the opposite direction. Additional Details: Call 918-377-2355
May 13-14, 2006 Gum Tree Festival Courthouse Square, Tupelo, Mississippi	Juried art show, songwriting competition, 10K run, entertainment, art activities for kids, food. It's the festival's 35th year. Questions? Call 662-844-2787
May 15-20, 2006 Strawberry Festival Downtown, Adairville, Kentucky	Pancake breakfast, arts and crafts and more. Details: Call 270-539-4341
May 17-21, 2006 Calaveras County Fair & Jumping Frog Jubilee Fairgrounds, Angels Camp, California	You get all the fun of a county fair plus the famous frog-jumping competitions, a destruction derby, entertainment, festival merchandise, a talent competition and pageant. Further Information: Call 209-736-2561 or 800-225-3764
May 18-20, 2006 Mayhaw Festival Mayhaw Grounds at Hwy. 12 & 109, Starks, Louisiana	Arts and crafts, pageant, mayhaw jelly-making demos and contest, talent show, bike parade, music food and more. Get the Facts: Call 337-743-6297 or 800-456-7952
May 18-21, 2006 Rabbit Fest City Park, Copperas Cove, Texas	Arts and crafts, carnival, BBQ coo-off, washer pitching, softball tournament, Jack Rabbit Run, music, car show, rabbit costume competition, carrot cake competition, food vendors, Fest Parade, pet parade. Come and help celebrate the festival's 26th year. Additional Information: Call 254-547-7571
May 18-21, 2006 Festival of Greece St. Basil the Great Greek Orthodox Church on Eldridge Parkway, Houston, Texas	Music, cooking demonstrations, Greek marketplace, Greek foods for sale, gyro eating contest (Friday at 7pm), activities for kids. Learn More: Call 281-679-5395
May 19-20, 2006 Magnolia Blossom Festival Downtown Square, Magnolia, Arkansas	Photo contest, parade, fishing tournament, sidewalk art show, 5K race & 1 mile fun run, dog show, pageant, treasure hunt, entertainment, carnival, food court, arts and crafts, World Championship Steak Cook-Off, antique cars, motorcycle show. It's the festival's 18th year. Additional Details: Call 870-234-4352
May 19-20, 2006 Moonlight Jubilee Downtown, Mt. Pleasant, Texas	Moonlight Motorcycle Poker Run, Texas State Championship Outhouse Races, activities for kids, chili cook-off, moonlight golf tournament, street dance, salsa making contest, entertainment, arts and crafts, Ice Cream Crank-off, carnival and more. Info: Call 903-572-8567
May 19-21, 2006 Swedish Festival Swedish Village, Kingsburg, California	Swedish pancakes, Swedish smorgasbord, Basset Waddle Parade (on May 20), entertainment, crafts. Find Out More: Call 559-897-1111
May 19-21, 2006 Mike the Headless Chicken Festival various venues, Fruita, Colorado	This festival came from the tale that a chicken named Mike almost became dinner several decades ago. Mike survived awhile after the culinary beheading and became somewhat of a legend. Fruita celebrates Mike's will to live with events such as arts and crafts, a chicken dance contest, pancake breakfast, chicken recipe contest, tractor parade, food booths, 5K Run Like a Headless Chicken, the Mike Store, a car show, music and more. Get Details: Call 970-858-3663
May 19-21, 2006 Rhododendron Festival various venues, Florence, Oregon	5K & 10K runs, arts and crafts, floral displays, junior parade, Grand Floral Parade, activities for kids, carnival (opens early), pageant, entertainment and more. It's the 99th year for this festival. Information: Call 541-997-3128
May 19-22, 2006 Iris Festival River Road between Claggett St. & Chemawa Rd., Keizer, Oregon	Prayer breakfast, garden tours, golf tournament, carnival, parade, quilters' faire, flower show, Iris Fest 5K run/walk, parade day breakfast, volkswalk, softball tournament, battle of the bands and more. Questions? Call 888-218-4747
May 19-21, 2006 Live Oak Festival Courthouse Square, Columbus, Texas	In its 51st year the festival offers a juried art show, 5K run, antiques, activities for kids, activities for teens, dinner theatre and more. Info: Call 979-732-8385
May 19-21, 2006 Main Street Days Main Street area downtown, Grapevine, Texas	It's the 22nd year for this festival and the area folks celebrate with a car show, handcar races, business expo, snow tubing, BMX stunt team show, rock climbing wall, wine, arts and crafts, carnival, scuba diving demos, activities for kids, Heritage Gunfighters show, festival foods and 6 stages of entertainment. The fun runs from 10am-5pm. Get Details: Call 817-410-3185 or 800-457-6338
May 19-21, 2006 Pasadena Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds on Fairmont Parkway, Pasadena, Texas	World's Largest Strawberry Shortcake, Mud Volleyball State Championship, arts and crafts, music, frog jumping contest, circus show, pageant, activities for kids, BBQ cook-off, strawberry treats. There is an admission charge for those age 12 and older. Further Information: Call 281-991-9500
May 19-21, 2006 Chesapeake Jubilee City Park, Chesapeake, Virginia	Volleyball tournament, BBQ cook-off, 4-H events, arts and crafts, fireworks (Saturday at 9pm), festival foods, entertainment (among those scheduled at this writing are Sister Hazel and J.T. Taylor). Enjoy a Shrimp Feast and carnival opening on the 18th. Additional Details: Call 405-270-4848
May 20, 2006 Grand Canyon Sweet Onion Festival Sahuaro Ranch Park, Glendale, Arizona	Fresh onions for sale, entertainment, games, food, pancake breakfasts, arts and crafts. Learn More: Call 623-930-3520
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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.
May 20, 2006 Red Suspenders Day Downtown, Gridley, California	Music, parade, vendors, activities for kids, pancake breakfast in Daddow Park (7am-11am), pinewood derby race, bed races, talent show, car show, youth games, fire department water game competition. Get Info: Call 530-846-3142
May 20, 2006 Wash Pot Weekend unknown venue(s), Garfield, Georgia	Parade in the morning, soapbox derby, arts and crafts, activities for kids, evening street dance, lawnmower pull, lots of food cooked in giant wash pots. Questions? Call 478-763-2211
May 20, 2006 Gold Dust Days Courthouse Lawn, Fredonia, Kansas	Ragtime music, historic reenactments, old-fashioned games, food, arts and crafts. More Information: Call 620-378-3238
May 20, 2006 Turkey Creek Festival Antioch Park, Merriam, Kansas	Pancake breakfast (7-11am), One Hill of a Run 5K race, parade, free musical concerts, arts and crafts, petting zoo, rides for kids, food, roving entertainment. Get the facts: Call 913-322-5550
May 20, 2006 Albemarle Potato Festival Along the waterfront, Elizabeth City, North Carolina	Pageant, potato peeling contest, arts and crafts, activities for kids, free potato chips or fries, food vendors, parade. Enjoy the fun from 10am-5pm. And while it's not part of the official festival, take time to see the Elizabeth II, a replica of the 16th Century vessel which will be in harbor in May. They will be giving public tours May 20-21. Details: Call 252-338-2227 or 252-338-2848
May 20, 2006 Stagecoach Days various venues, Marshall, Texas	Car show and cruise on that Friday night, arts and crafts, parade, food, entertainment and more. The event is in its 34th year. Additional Information: Call 903-935-7868
May 20-21, 2006 Artichoke Festival Downtown, Castroville, California	Enjoy this 47th year with an Agro art contest, RV jamboree, 10K run & 5K run/walk for PAL, arts and crafts, wine tasting, activities for kids, classic cars, cooking demonstrations, farmers market, tours of artichoke fields, and goodies such as artichoke soup and pickled artichokes. Pete Escovedo is among entertainers scheduled to perform. The festival runs from 10am-6pm on Sat. & 10am-5pm on Sun. There is an admission charge for those 13 and older. Questions? Call 831-633-2465
May 20-21, 2006 Strawberry Festival Veteran's Field, Galt, California	Celebrating its 11th year, the festival offers arts and crafts, retail vendors, activities for kids, entertainment, a car show, carnival, festival foods. The fun runs from 10am-9pm on Sat. & from 10am-5pm on Sun. Get the facts: Call 209-745-2529
May 20-21, 2006 Fruit & Nut Festival Downtown, Hughson, California	In its 18th year the festival provides food booths, a farmers market, arts and crafts, tractor pull, car show, parade on Sat. at 11am, activities for kids, entertainment, pageant, non-profit and commercial booths. (The carnival opens May 19.) This is an alcohol-free event. There is no admission charge. More Information: Call 209-883-2800
May 20-21, 2006 Chocolate Festival Wood Park & Hershey Visitor Center at Hwy. 108 & 120, Oakdale, California	Enjoy events from 9am-5pm during this 14th year of the festival. This is one of those rare festivals that offers pet sitting services, so do take advantage of that. Activities include Old West reenactments, classic cars, 5K/1 mile fun run on Sat., Kid's Land, chef demonstrations, Chocolate Avenue with goodies such as chocolate funnel cakes and chocolate cheesecake, agricultural displays, arts and crafts, the Chocolate Challenge competition, wine and chocolate trains (may require separate fees and/or reservations), 2 stages of entertainment. There is an admission charge for those age 13 and older. Bring a can for the food drive and get a dollar off the price of admission. Learn More: Call 209-847-2244
May 20-21, 2006 California Strawberry Festival Strawberry Meadows of College Park (on Rose Avenue), Oxnard, California	Triple Run Strawberry Relay (in which teams assemble and then eat strawberry shortcake), strawberry tart toss, arts and crafts, fresh berries for sale, Strawberryland for the kids, entertainment, festival merchandise, and festival foods (including BBQ sandwiches with a strawberry sauce). The festival runs from 10am-6:30pm. Questions? Call 805-385-4739 or 888-288-9242
May 20-21, 2006 Riverside Orange Blossom Festival Historic downtown, Riverside, California	Parade, 5 stages of entertainment, Microwbrew Fest, carnival, nonprofit booths, arts and crafts. And while you wander you can enjoy treats such as orange cotton candy, orange chicken teriyaki, orange kettle korn and turkey sausage with orange flavoring. Get the Facts: Call 951-715-3400
May 20-21, 2006 Downtown Arts Festival Downtown area, Williamsport, Pennsylvania	Art area for children, entertainment, arts and crafts, food vendors. Additional Information: Call 570-322-5544
May 20-21, 2006 Blue Crab Festival Waterfront, Little River, South Carolina	Activities for kids, 5K run, arts and crafts, entertainment, pageant, classic cars, fishing, gambling boats, vendors, poker run, helicopter rides, gospel concert, raffle for motorcycle, food. The festival is celebrating its 25th year. Learn More: Call 843-385-3180
May 21, 2006 Street Faire Downtown, Escondido, California	Car show, commercial vendors, farmers market, demonstrations with animals from the San Diego Wild Animal Park, pancake breakfast, arts and crafts. Most events are on Grand Avenue between Center & Ivy. The festival runs from 9am-5pm. Further Details: Call 760-745-8877 or 760-945-9288
May 21, 2006 Jewish Festival Oak Park, Santa Barbara, California	Park Haverim for kids, games, arts and crafts, a dance, used book sale, prize drawing, information and displays, 2 stages of entertainment, food. This is the festival's 20th year. Enjoy the day from 11am-5pm. Questions? Call 805-898-1115
May 21, 2006 Oregon Fest Dustin Road, Oregon, Ohio	Appearances by the Mud Hen mascots, classic cars, parade, Civil War reenactments, festival foods, carnival rides, entertainment, arts and crafts, chicken dinners, activities for kids. There is no admission charge. Learn More: Call 419-691-7060
May 21, 2006 Whitetop Mountain Ramp Festival Mount Rogers Fire Hall on US 58, Whitetop, Virginia	Enjoy a BBQ chicken dinner with fried potatoes and ramps (the leek-like veggie). If you really like ramps, get in on the ramp eating contest. Or you can enjoy hot dogs, great desserts, bluegrass and mountain music, dancing, arts and crafts and games, all from 11am-6pm. Questions? Call 276-773-3711 or 276-388-3422
May 25-28, 2006 Mudbug Madness Festival Plaza, Shreveport, Louisiania	Don't be afraid to join the fun! Mudbug is just another name for crawfish. Come and enjoy arts and crafts, the Mudbug 5K, festival merchandise, music, activities for the kids and lots of festival foods. Additional Information: Call 318-222-7403
May 25-28, 2006 Iris Festival Swan Lake area, Sumter, South Carolina	Pageant, boat exhibit, Shriners Day parade, tennis tournament, health checks, Acoustic Open Mic Challenge, Swan Lake Diaper Parade & Derby, Italian street painting, arts and crafts, food court, Kids Safety Fair, quilt show, food. Get the Facts: Call 803-436-2640 or 800-688-4748
May 25-29, 2006 Crab Festival unknown venue(s), Kodiak, Alaska	Historical exhibits, festival merchandise, parade, food, carnival midway, entertainment, art show, predicted mile run, tribal-sponsored bingo, street bowling, lampwork glass show, Alaska Ocean Film Festival, buoy toss, bed races, sawdust pile full of change for kids to dig into, kayak races, skatboarding contest, arm wrestling competition, Crab Festival Marathon, sourdough pancakes, frog jumping contest, raffle and more. More: Call 907-486-4782
May 25-29, 2006 Moonshine Festival Main Street, New Straitsville, Ohio	This festival features a working moonshine display with no hangovers because it's for educational purposes only. Enjoy parades, moonshine pie, carnival games and rides, entertainment, fiddle and banjo competitions, vehicle show, moonshine burgers and more. Additional Details: Call 740-394-2838 or 740-394-2425
May 26-27, 2006 Zellwood Sweet Corn Festival Festival Grounds at 4253 W. Ponkan Rd., Zellwood, Florida	It's the 33rd year for this festival and the fun runs from 11am-10pm. The contraption they call Big Bertha cooks more than 1600 ears of corn every 9 minutes, so you can count on getting plenty. Enjoy fresh corn for sale, a carnival, festival merchandise, arts and crafts. Entertainment scheduled at this writing includes Terri Clark, Neal McCoy and Jim Van Fleet. You can bring chairs or blankets to listen to the music but please leave coolers and pets at home. (Service animals are welcome, as always.) There is an admission charge for those 13 and older. Younger festival-goers get in free when accompanied by a paying adult. Questions? Call 407-886-0014
May 26-29, 2006 Horned Toad Derby Olsen Park, Coalinga, California	Parade, carnival rides, softball tournament, horned toad races, arts and crafts, firefighter water fights and more. The city of Coalinga turns 100 this year, so watch for Centennial touches of fun. Additional Information: Call 559-935-2948 or 800-854-3885
May 26-29, 2006 Garden Grove Strawberry Festival Village Green, Garden Grove, California	Carnival, pageants, karaoke contest for 2 different age groups, entertainment, food booths, recipe contest, giant strawberry cake, Red Head Roundup, Memorial Day ceremony, celebrity parade & autograph signing. This year's Grand Marshal is Jerry Mathers, who was once well-known as "The Beaver". There is no admission charge to the festival. Learn More: Call 714-638-0981
May 26-29, 2006 Blue Crab Festival Downtown, Palatka, Florida	Fireworks and music on Friday night, fine arts show, Memorial Day parade & ceremony, arts and crafts, activities for kids, antiques, pig races, State Championship Seafood Cook-off, festival foods. Details: Call 386-325-4406
May 26-29, 2006 Chestertown Tea Party Downtown, Chestertown, Maryland	Reenactment of the 1774 dumping of British tea, sword demonstrations, 10 mile run, Colonial parade, tours of the Schooner Sultana, cocktail reception, farmers market, raft race, George Washington portrayal by an actor who will mingle with the crowd and also give speeches, storytelling, festival foods, Sneaker Creeper race for kids ages 4-11, arts and crafts. Further Information: Call 410-776-2662
May 26-29, 2006 Festival of Flags Aetna Park, Oak Hill, Ohio	Parade, carnival, dog show, car show, 5K run, arts and crafts, activities for children, Veterans parade. More than 200 flags will be on display throughout the festival, plus many other banners and patriotic displays and decorations. Get the Facts: Call 740-682-7292 or 740-682-7057
May 26-29, 2006 Walleye Festival Waterworks Park, Port Clinton, Ohio	Educational programs, arts and crafts, parade, pancake breakfast (Sun. from 8am-noon), carnival, Memorial Day parade & ceremony, K-9 demos, entertainment, activities for kids. Come and check out Dr. Happy & a certain "balloon blowing" goat! This is the festival's 26th year. Learn More: Call 419-573-9370
May 26-29, 2006 Azalea Festival various venues, Brookings, Oregon	The festival celebrates its 67th year with the theme "Family, Friends & Freedom". Enjoy arts and crafts, 2 themed parades, a quilt show, street fair, flowers, food and more. Information: Call 541-469-3181
May 26-29, 2006 Chocolate Fest Maryland Avenue off Hwy. 36/83, Burlington, Wisconsin	Parade, fireworks, entertainment, chocolate eating contests, cooking demonstrations, Old West gunspinning show, lumberjack competition, carnival, battle of the bands, giant chocolate creation. Questions? Call 262-763-3300
May 27-28, 2006 Strawberry Festival Downtown area, Arroyo Grande, California	Strawberry pancake breakfast, strawberry shortcake and other treats, strawberry cooking demonstrations, arts and crafts booths, Strawberry Stampede 5K/10K run & 5K walk, dog show and pet adoptions, games and a whopping 8 stages of entertainment. There is no admission charge. Further Details: Call 805-473-2250
May 27-28, 2006 Grubstake Days various venues, Yucca Valley, California	Celebrity Waiter Luncheon (on the 26th), parade (begins at Remembrance Park at 10am on Sat.), music, vendors, festival merchandise, activities for kids, 2K/5K/10K run and more. The large property that was the site for the past demolition derby and rodeo events has been sold, so this year festival organizers are taking the opportunity to increase the home town festival feeling with compact events that draw people together. Go and enjoy the 55th year of this event. Additional Info: Call 760-365-6323
May 27-28, 2006 Camas Festival Mini Park, Weippe, Idaho	Horseshoe tournament, melodrama, silent auction, arts and crafts, entertainment, historic craft demonstrations, storytelling, food. This is the event's 6th year. Questions? Call 208-435-4362
May 27-28, 2006 Delaplane Strawberry Festival Sky Meadows State Park on US Rte. 17, Delaplane, Virginia	Bluegrass music, hayrides, Strawberry Blue Ribbon baking contest, Anna C. Ringer Memorial 5K run/walk, rock band, tribute to Patsy Cline, petting zoo, clowns and puppets and other entertainment, bagpipes and fife and drum corps, auctioneering demos, arts and crafts, classic cars. The National Strawberry Eating Championship will be held May 27 at 11am. There will be a pro section, but amateurs will also have a chance to participate. Festival hours are 10am-5pm. Note that leashed pets are allowed at the festival, except in the petting zoo and hayride areas. Get Details: Call 479-229-3328
May 27-28, 2006 Pound Heritage Days Main Street, Pound, Virginia	Arts and crafts, food, car show, entertainment, carnival rides. Further Information: Call 276-679-0961 or 276-796-4941
May 27-28, 2006 Pungo Strawberry Festival Princess Anne & Indian River Roads, Virginia Beach, Virginia	Pie eating contest, 4 stages of entertainment, arts and crafts, pig races, parade, livestock sale and show, racing car exhibits and lots of strawberry treats. The festival is celebrating its 23rd year and runs from 9am-7pm. This is an alcohol-free event. Come and enjoy the fun, but please leave Fido comfortably at home for the weekend. Details: Call 757-721-6001
May 27-29, 2006 Wyatt Earp Days Allen Street area, Tombstone, Arizona	Gunfight reenactments, mock hangings, various Old West stunts and skits, 1880s fashion show, chili cook-off, Wyatt Earp Look-alike Contest, food. Get the facts: Call 888-457-3929
May 27-29, 2006 Lilac Festival Main Street, Lisbon, New Hampshire	New Hampshire's state flower is again the center of attraction at this 25th festival. Enjoy the Lilac 5K Run Run and Walk, a golf tournament, pancake breakfast, entertainment, a visit from Miss New Hampshire fireworks and more. (The carnival opens one day early on the evening of May 26.) Additional Information: Call 603-838-6336 or 603-838-2200
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May Somethings! Brief, bare-boned last-minute festival listings:
May 3-9 Raisin Festival, Selma, California, 559-891-2235 May 4-14 Feather Fiesta Days, Bird & Myers Street area, Oroville, California, 530-534-7690 May 5-6 Emmett Kelly Days, Downtown, Houston, Missouri, 417-967-2220 May 5-6 Mushroom Festival, Town Square, Richmond, Missouri, 816-776-6916 May 5-6 Smokey Bear Days, Capitan, New Mexico, 505-354-2273 May 5-7 Toad Suck Daze, Conway, Arkansas May 5-7 Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, Fernandina Beach, Florida, 866-426-3542 or 904-261-3248 May 5-7 Okeene Rattlesnake Roundup, Okeene, Oklahoma, 580-822-3005 May 5-7 River City Festival, Riverfront Park, Logansport, Texas, 318-697-5498 May 6 Springtime Gala, City Park, Altus, Arkansas, 479-468-4684 May 6 May Daze Festival, Burlington, Kansas, 877-364-2002 May 6 Harry Truman's Birthday Celebration, Independence Square, Independence, Missouri, 816-325-7111 May 6 Apple Blossom Festival, various venues, St. Joseph, Missouri, 816-294-9517 May. 6 Spring Fest, Downtown, Monroe, North Carolina, 704-282-4542 May 6-7 Rhododendron Festival, Brow Park, Mentone, Alabama, 256-634-4041 May 6-7 Elk Grove Western Festival, Regional Park, Elk Grove, California May 6-7 A La Carte and Art, Castro Street between Church & Evelyn, Mountain View, California, 650-964-3395 May 6-7 May-retta Daze, Glover Park, Marietta, Georgia, 770-794-5609 May 6-7 Snellville Days, Briscoe Park, Snellville, Georgia, 770-985-3580 May 6-7 Azalea Festival, Fredericktown, Missouri, 673-783-3581 May 6-7 Frog Fest, City Park, Waynesville, Missouri, 573-774-6171 May 6-7 Ham & Yam Festival, Downtown, Smithfield, North Carolina, 919-934-0887 May 11-14 Ione Homecoming, Ione, California, 877-868-7262 May 11-14 Cochon de Lait Festival, Cochon de Lait Pavilion, Mansura, Louisiana, 318-964-2152 May 12-14 Pan American Festival, Mayfair Park, Lakewood, California, 562-866-9771 May 12-14 Texas Crab Festival, Gregory Park, Crystal Beach, Texas, 409-684-5940 or 800-386-7863 May 12-14 Freer Rattlesnake Roundup, Freer, Texas, 361-394-6891 May 13 Glennville Sweet Onion Festival, Farmers Market, Glennville, Georgia, 912-654-3332 May 13 Cherry Blossom Festival, Logan Park, Cherryvale, Kansas, 620-891-0072 May 13 Oak Street Arts & Crafts Festival, Downtown, Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania, 570-339-2930 May 13 Local Colors Festival, Elmwood Park, Roanoke, Virginia, 540-342-2640 May 13-14 Old Timer's Day, Main Street, Van Buren, Arkansas, 479-474-4392 May 13-14 Cotee River Seafood Festival & Boat Show, Downtown, New Richey, Florida, 727-842-8066 May 17-20 Homecoming Festival, Downtown, Dillsboro, Indiana, 812-432-5654 May 18-21 Tulsa International Mayfest, Downtown, Tulsa, Oklahoma, 918-582-6435 May 19-20 Dermott Crawfish Festival, Dermott, Arkansas, 870-538-5656 May 19-20 Crawdad Days, Main Street Square & Lake Harrison, Harrison, Arkansas, 870-741-2659 May 19-20 Fountain Run Barbecue Festival, Main Street, Fountain Run, Kentucky, 270-434-2915 May 19-20 Little River Days, Little River Park, Hopkinsville, Kentucky, 800-909-9016 May 19-21 Greek Food Festival, 1100 Napa Valley Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas, 501-221-5300 May 19-21 Maifest, MainStrasse Village, Covington, Kentucky, 859-491-0458 May 19-21 Mayfest, Strasburg, Virginia, 540-465-3187 May 20-21 Spring Fair, Memorial Park, Berea, Kentucky, 859-986-3192 May 20-21 Spring Fair, Northside Sports Complex, St. Joseph, Missouri, 816-424-6315 or 816-248-3603 May 20-21 Maize Days, Town Hall Complex, Santee, South Carolina, 866-272-6833 May 20-21 Iris Festival, Greenville, Tennessee, 423-638-4111 May 25-29 Festival in the Park Elmwood Park, Roanoke, Virginia, 540-342-2640 May 26-27 Buffalo Days, Town Square, Greenfield, Missouri, 417-637-2040 or 888-637-2040 May 26-28 Jubilee CityFest, Riverfront, Montgomery, Alabama, 334-834-7220 or email May 26-28 Riverfest, Riverfront Park, Little Rock, Arkansas, 501-255-3378 May 26-28 Gullah Festival, Waterfront Park, Beaufort, South Carolina, 843-525-0628 May 26-28 National Polka Festival, Ennis, Texas, 888-366-4748 May 26-28 Greek Festival, 12362 Spotswood Furnace Rd., Fredericksburg, Virginia, 800-678-4748 May 26-29 Horse & Buggy Days, Tecumseh, Nebraska, 402-335-5900 May 27 Hillbilly Daze, Community Park, Witts Springs, Arkansas, 870-496-2342 May 27 Yellow Brick Road Festival, Downtown, Sedan, Kansas, 620-725-4033 or 620-725-5797 May 27 Talala Spring Festival, City Park, Talala, Oklahoma, 918-275-4380 May 27 Country Memories Day, McVeytown, Pennsylvania, 717-899-7998 May 27 Plumb Alley Day, Main & Valley Street area, Abingdon, Virginia, 276-614-0875 May 27 Strawberry Festival, St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, Heathsville, Virginia, 804-580-4555 May 27 Virgilina Summerfest, Virgilina, Virginia, 434-585-2657 May 27-28 Boulder Creek Art, Wine & Music Festival, Downtown, Boulder Creek California, 831-338-2578 May 27-28 Mushroom Mardi Gras, Morgan Hill, Calfornia, 408-778-1786 May 27-28 Andersonville Spring Fair, Andersonville, Georgia, 229-924-2558 May 27-28 Farmington Invitational Balloon Festival, Farmington, New Mexico, 800-448-1240 May 27-28 Moab Arts Festival, Swanny City Park, Moab, Utah, 435-259-2742 May 27-29 Logan Hills Festival, Downtown, Zanesfield, Ohio, 888-564-2626 May 28 Wildquack Duck River Festival, Jackson, New Hampshire, 603-383-9356 May 28-29 Santa Cruz Blues Festival, 11am-6pm, Atos Village Park, Aptos, California, email
Other May 2006 Events You Might Enjoy Events in this section may be called festivals but are generally less multi-dimensional than events in the above category
May 6-7 Home & Garden Expo, Rec Center at Eastridge, Highlands Ranch, Colorado May 6-7 Coin Show, Crystal Coast Civic Center, Morhead City, North Carolina, 252-728-2727 May 6-28 Harwell Mail-In Art Show, Harwell Art. Museum, Poplar Bluff, Missouri, 573-686-8002 May 7 Coin Show, City Auditorium, Fremont, Nebraska, 402-727-1531 May 7 Charlotte ComiCon, Best Western Charlotte Uptown, Charlotte, North Carolina, 803-547-3995 May 12-14 West Coast Gem & Mineral Show, Holiday Inn-Bristol Plaza, Costa Mesa, California, 505-867-0073 May 12-14 Springtime Reunion Car Show, Fairgrounds, Merced, California, 209-384-7092 May 12-14 Spring Craft Market, Beach Pavilion Convention Center, Virginia Beach, Virginia May 13-14 Art in the Park, Hollywood Park, Hot Springs, Arkansas, 501-321-6871 May 13-14 Home & Garden Show, Campbell's Field, Camden, New Jersey May 13-29 Green Valley Book Fair, 2192 Green Valley Ln., Mt. Crawford, Virginia, 800-385-0099 May 19 Cruisin' in the Rock, River Market Pavilions, Little Rock, Arkansas, 501-370-3201 May 19-20 Motor City Comic Con, Novi, Michigan, 248-426-8059 May 19-20 Greater York Antiques Show & Sale, Fairgrounds, York, Pennsylvania, 717-872-2778 May 19-20 County Classics Antique Show, Expo Center, York, Pennsylvania, 703-914-1268 May 19-21 Mobicon 9, Ashbury Hotel, Mobile, Alabama May 19-21 International Bead Show, Civic Auditorium, Santa Monica, California, 310-458-2288 May 19-21 Gourd Art Show, Spencer County High School, Taylorsville, Kentucky, 502-477-8543 May 19-21 Monster-Mania Con 5, Hilton Hotel, Cherry Hill, New Jersey, email May 19-21 Bead Renaissance Show, Convention Center, Grapevine, Texas, 505-894-1293 May 20 Salute to American Graffiti, Village Premium Outlets, Petaluma, California, 707-763-6315 May 20 Luther Burbank Rose Parade & Festival,                    Julliard Park, Santa Rosa, California, 707-542-7673 May 20 Community Yard Sale, Meredith, New Hampshire, 603-279-6121 May 20 International Street Fair, Athens, Ohio, 740-593-4326 May 20 Fox Trot Festival, Marion, South Carolina May 20 Denton Art Fair, Municipal Airport, Denton, Texas, 940-484-1603 May 20 McLean Day, Lewinsville Park, McLean, Virginia, 703-790-0123 May 20 Spring Festival, Main Street, Warrenton, Virginia, 540-347-4414 May 20-21 Super-Con, Convention Center, Oakland, California, email May 20-21 Strawberry Jubilee, Bishop's Farm, Wheatland, California, 530-633-4392 May 20-21 Art in the Park, Gypsy Hill Park, Staunton, Virginia, 540-885-2028 May 21 Bay to Breakers (race), San Francisco, California May 21 Woof Stock, 4630 East Bay Dr., Largo, Florida, 727-518-3016 May 24-27 Coin & Collectibles Expo, Convention Center, Anaheim, California, 702-838-7227 May 25-29 100 Mile Sale, Hwy. 25, Jackson, Missouri, 573-243-8131 May 26-28 Watsonville Fly-In & Air Show, Watsonville, California, 831-763-5600 May 26-28 Delmarva Miniature Horse Show, State Fairgrounds, Harrington, Delaware, 302-424-2387 May 26-28 MisCon 20, Ruby's Inn, Missoula, Montana, 406-544-7083 May 26-28 Antiques Extravaganza, LJVM Coliseum Annex, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 336-924-4359 May 26-28 CONduit XVI, Salt Lake City, Utah May 26-28 Gem & Mineral Show, Civic Center, Salem, Virginia, 540-384-6047 May 26-29 Sacramento Jazz Jubilee, Oldtown, Sacramento, California, 916-372-5277 May 26-29 BayCon, DoubleTree Hotel, San Jose, California, 408-450-1788 May 26-29 Balticon 40, Marriott's Hunt Valley Inn, Baltimore, Maryland, 410-563-2737 May 26-29 MarCon, Hyatt Regency, Columbus, Ohio May 26-29 Official Texas Arts & Crafts Fair, 2100 Memorial Blvd., Kerrville, Texas, 830-896-5711 May 27-28 Riverbend Art Fair, Atchison, Kansas, 913-367-4278 May 27-29 Kinetic Sculpture Race, Arcata to Ferndale, Arcata, California, 707-845-1717
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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.

May 13 is the Letter Carriers "Stamp Out" Hunger food drive. You should be getting a postcard and grocery bag (or similar mailing) soon. You'll be able to leave your food donation by the mailbox or drop it off at a post office. Specific instructions may vary from place to place, so check with your local post office for details. And for a little extra fun, watch for a special promotional cartoon from Bill Keane, who does The Family Circus. The Harlem Globetrotters are also lending a hand to increase awareness and participation in this very worthy program.
If you like rock climbing walls so much that you wish you had your own, take a look at this, this, or this for some inspiration.		If you're in Columbus, Ohio this spring be sure to stop at the Golden Delight Baker, 11516 Bethel Road. I'm told their Strawberry Cake is not to be missed. Call ahead to be sure they have some left—614-459-6888. And if you happen to go through Cedar Rapids, Iowa and want to surf online and feed your tummy at the same time, head to the corner of Boyson Road & C Avenue, to Java Creek Cafe. Have a Swiss Turkey sandwich or one of their fresh salads. Top it off with a Raspberry Cream Swirl Smoothie or a rich Turtle Mocha. Get a Harvest Baguette or some Focaccia to go.
If you want to travel without hauling the skis, the bikes and lots of luggage around with you, but you know you need or want those items at your destination, you might consider the services of Sports Express. I would say their prices are a bit on the upscale side, but if you don't want the hassle of lugging golf clubs, large duffles and other items on trips, particularly international trips, you might find they offer just what you need to make your trip a lot less work and a lot more fun. They're already popular with athletes, but other folks are quickly finding out about the convenience they offer travelers.

Send Deb email: deb@lightpatch.com

Last Updated April 25, 2006

Deb's Monthly Review © copyright Deb Thompson