Fun is free at Youth Fair

Before donning the backpacks and new school clothes and beginning a new school year, Corning youths were treated to a "last blast of summer" Saturday at the Corning Youth Fair.

More than 350 people enjoyed the free fun and activities offered Saturday at Corning's Northside Park, as more than 40 organizations provided activities and informational materials, with most also each donating a backpack chocked full of school supplies.

The Youth Fair Committee raffled off more than 30 of the backpacks to children who attended.

Activities ranged from a "bounce house" to face painting, miniature horses to dancing, and from cotton candy to a free swim day, to name just a few.

Carol Curry, program manager at the Corning Family Resource Center and co-coordinator of the youth fair, fondly recalled bringing her children to the traditional event years ago, and wanted to bring the tradition back to Corning.
Kimberly Beck, Corning Recreation Department supervisor, believes that Saturday's showing indicates that it is a tradition that Corning residents would welcome back.

"The ambition of the various groups who participated and the overwhelming support of the community is what helped bring this event back," Beck said. "We have high hopes for next year and have even started a list of additions and changes we would like to see. Each year, we hope to grow and make the Corning Youth Fair bigger and better."

Beck and Curry expressed their deep appreciation for everyone who dedicated time and energy to make the event truly spectacular, saying, "We appreciate all of you and hope to see you next year."