By Matt Youngfrau
WURTSBORO — July 16, 2002 – Over the last few years, the Village of Wurtsboro has taken great strides to improve itself in many ways.
Each year, the village gets to show itself off when it holds the Annual Founder's Day Street Fair.
The Wurtsboro Board of Trade's 12th annual event took place on Saturday, July 13, on Sullivan Street. More than 20,000 people attended this year's event.
In fact, the streets were lining up with people well over an hour before the event officially began.
"This is what a hometown is supposed to be," said Town of Mamakating Supervisor Fred Harding. "It is a wonderful day. It never rains on Wurtsboro days. Everybody benefits today. It is win-win-win."
"This is a great day and I couldn't ask for more," remarked District 4 Legislator Jonathan Rouis. "It is great that so many people get to see what we are doing here. The more people, the better."
"This was a collaboration with all parts of the community," noted Wurtsboro Mayor Bob Whitehead. "People know about Wurtsboro and make it their destination. It is great."
Event organizers were impressed that so many people came despite the fact that there was construction in every direction of the festival.
While people roamed up and down the street shopping, they were entertained by many different forms of entertainment. There was live music, live radio broadcast, karaoke, acrobats, and pony rides. Throughout the day, planes from Wurtsboro Airport flew over and performed tricks.
Also going on during the festival was an antique car show. Cars from throughout the century were on display. Well over 30 antique cars were on display.
"This is going to be another great year," Wurtsboro Board of Trade President Matt Brewi stated. "This will be the biggest event ever. This is our way to reintroduce summer residents to Wurtsboro and hope they visit us all summer long."
"This a great thing for the community," Sullivan County Family Court Judge Mark Meddaugh said. "This brings everybody out. Everyone seems to be having a good time."
More than 100 vendors lined Sullivan Street. Clothing, candles, food, jewelry, toys, and artwork were available. There were games for children and adults. Such organizations as the Rotary, fire departments, and libraries took the opportunity to raise funds for their respective groups, all of which were local.
Yet once it got dark, the fun did not end. The sky was colored by a spectacular fireworks display. All-in-all, it wrapped up an exciting, fun-filled day for all who attended.