BROCTON?- With a change in date and better weather, the Brocton Portland Community Festival fared better than it has since its inception four years ago. Record crowds turned out for the festivities that were held at Portland's Community Park. The family friendly event features amusement rides, a variety of craft and food vendors and lots of music and entertainment.

Festival highlights included an appearance at the Portland Museum by local author Mac Nelson and cartoonist Brad Anderson, creator of "Marmaduke." Anderson delighted the capacity audience with stories and sketches, some of which he graciously gifted to members of the audience.

Other highlights included the Festival Idol Karaoke Contest. First-place winner was Carol Westerdahl, second-place finisher was Shawn Wilder and taking third place was Amber Lamphere.

New this year was the mud wrestling tournament. Girls and guys made big, messy splashdowns to the delight of the large crowd of onlookers.

The raffle for the Amish Shed was won by Joel Seibert of Stanley.

Saturday's festivities were capped off by an amazing fireworks display by American Fireworks. The fireworks were made possible in part by Charles Loveland, Attorney at Law; Manzella Farms and Phantom Fireworks.

Sunday provided a picture perfect day for the festival. Blue skies and sunshine were on tap for the Main Street Parade. Floats, color guards, dancers, twirlers, novelty groups, fire equipment and much more made for a wonderful spectacle. Music for the parade was provided by the Chadwick Bay Buccaneers. The Jamestown Shriners Krazy Kats provided excitement and amusement to the crowds. Cash prizes were awarded to the following:

Best Fire Co.: 1st: Stockton Fire Department; 2nd: Brocton Fire Dept.; 3rd: Portland Fire Dept.

Best Float: 1st Herbert Star Apartments, 2nd Boy Scouts, 3rd Chautauqua County Snowmobile Club

Best Novelty Group: 1st Jamestown Shriners Krazy Kats, 2nd Chautauqua County Antique Tractor Association, 3rd Chautauqua County Sheriffs Mounted Division.

Best Youth Group: 1st Henry Mosher Falconer American Legion Jr. Auxiliary

2nd Sparkling Kadets

Best Colorguard: 1st Sheridan Fire Department, 2nd place (tie) Lake Chautauqua VFW and John W. Dill Post #434 American Legion

Best Dance/Cheer Team: 1st Place: Chadwick Bay Academy of Dance

Best Horse and Rider: Sue Abers

Best Classic Car: James Lanphere

Motorcycle enthusiasts enjoyed a poker run around Chautauqua Lake, while classic car and tractor lovers participated in a cruise in.

Following the parade everyone was treated to a free ice cream social with donations provided by Fieldbrook Farms, Petri Cookies, Welch's Juice and Culligan Water

The Brocton Portland Community Festival would like to thank everyone for their help and support, especially the town of Portland and the village of Brocton officials.

Plans are already under way for next year's festival, set for July 9-11.

As the festival grows, the need for more volunteers grows with it. The committee is always looking for new members to help in any way that they can. If you are interested in becoming involved contact Al Seavy at 679-8483 or Diane Ringer at 792-9930.