STAMFORD, Vt. -- Despite severe thunderstorms and a tornado warning, the town’s first-ever Family Day has been deemed a success by organizers, town officials and residents.
Thomas Houghtaling, who led the committee that organized the Saturday event, said the five-kilometer road race and the parade took place in the morning. They were able to hold the gymkhana at the driving range and games at the school before the rain came.
"Considering the weather, it was a tremendous success. I’m looking forward to having this again next year, but with hopefully better weather," he said.
The chicken dinner at the Stamford Community Church pavilion had gone off as planned, the Brave Brothers were scheduled to play until 9 p.m., and the committee was still planning for the fireworks later that night, he said.
"We put a lot of effort into this, and to see the families here supporting the event, we’re really happy about it," he said.
Up until Saturday, Stamford Family Day had been in the works for about 18 months, which included fundraising to pay for the event. The Saturday activities were geared toward children and their families and celebrated the community.
Eunice Rice, chairwoman of the Select Board, said Stamford Family Day was something she has wanted to see happen ever since she joined the board about three and a half years ago.
"We have a lot of young families and retired people in town, and something
The only other time residents really get to see each other is at town meeting, which is a much more serious venue, she said.
Resident and Selectman Bruce Belisle said Stamford Family Day was in some ways similar to the annual bazaar that used to be held by the fire department.
"I don’t think we’ve had it in 30 years or better. It’s kind of nice that my kids have an opportunity to experience pretty much the same thing I did as a child," he said.
Belisle’s daughter, Camryn, 7, said her favorite part of the day was being in the parade with a wagon full of pig stuffed animals.
"I liked being in the parade with my pig float," she said. "I really like pigs."
Resident Kelly Garnish spent most of Stamford Family Day selling strawberry shortcake for the Stamford Community Church.
While her two daughters, Anna, 3, and Charlotte, 9 months, were looking forward to seeing the fireworks, they had also watched the road race and parade earlier in the day, she said.
"It’s wonderful to be part of the Stamford community, and it’s just great to see people come out and support this," she said.
To reach Meghan Foley, email mfoley@thetranscript.com.
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