“It’s just exciting and families are here,” he added. “We just enjoy being here and it’s a beautiful day – absolutely.”
Credit: NICK BLIZZARD/STAFF
Credit: NICK BLIZZARD/STAFF
Eight-year-old Lillie Critchfield joined her parents and her brother, Jake, because she enjoys “hanging out with my family.”
Jake said the parade was among his favorite attractions.
This year’s version — headed by grand marshal Tom Henderson, who is retiring as Centerville schools superintendent on Aug. 1 — had a different route. While still starting at Centerville High School, it turned south on Ohio 48, or Main Street, instead of crossing it.
Credit: NICK BLIZZARD/STAFF
Credit: NICK BLIZZARD/STAFF
More than 150 entries were part of the processional, the largest ever, said festival spokesman Dave Paprocki. It was also a record year for auto show and 5K entries, with run participants estimated in the 800-range, he said.
The parade route change allowed for more room for vendors along West Franklin, one of the key areas for restaurants in the city’s Uptown revitalization.
Longtime Centerville resident and festivalgoer Tom Karth was in search of a particular pork favorite.
“I like sausage sandwiches. But they’re difficult to come by,” he said. “They just don’t seem to have sausage sandwich booths anymore. But that’s what I like.”
More live entertainment was available Monday, with multiple stages and venues.
Beer was also sold for the first time this year in certain spots, allowing Americana organizers and high school groups more fundraising efforts, Paprocki said.
The changes, based on early feedback, were a plus, he said.
“The parade route change and the expansion on Franklin was really a great move and allowed for people to get in and out of the parade a lot easier,” Paprocki added.
Comments about spreading the festival’s boundaries also were favorable.
“So, we couldn’t be happier,” he said. “And we’re truly thrilled with the turnout as well.”
About the Author
