Thanks in large part to a substantial increase in sponsor support – and Mother Nature’s cooperation – the 2014 Plainview-Old Bethpage Craft and Gift Fair was a rousing success.
A caravan of vendors filled the parking lot of the Plainview-Old Bethpage Library starting at 7 a.m. By the time fairgoers crossed the blue and green balloon arch at 10 a.m. to receive their free T-shirt and bags stuffed with sponsor goodies, there were 108 booths ready to welcome them on the sunny day.
“It all came together beautifully,” said fair Chairman and Chamber Treasurer, Bryan Trugman. “Abundant sponsorship, community excitement and sunny skies combined to produce a highly successful event. We can’t wait until next year!”
New to the fair this year were pony rides, a custom cupcake truck and professional entertainment from Plainview’s own country music sensation, Lisa Matassa. Busto’s Martial Arts’ demonstration was a popular addition, drawing curious spectators who applauded the boys’ and girls’ impressive skills. The POB PAL Senior Youth Cheerleaders dazzled the crowd as they were lifted high up in the air waving their blue and white pom poms.
Many local singers and bands generously donated their time to perform: Frank Walker, Maryanne Brown, Chris Carluci, Johnny Nieves, and Acoustic Dave Kotliar. Patti Morrone entertained and served as emcee. Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK High School choral and a Capella groups provided an energizing soundtrack for the throng of shoppers as they made their discoveries up and down the aisles: jewelry, pretty clothing and wheels of chance to win exciting raffle prizes. The aroma of hot dogs, funnel cakes and fried Oreos beckoned hungry families. Of course, the pickle booth was a must stop for many.
It was definitely a family affair as kids slid, bounced and raced on the colorful inflatable rides. Free face painting was a big hit, once again courtesy of the POB Chamber of Commerce.
“The third time definitely proved a charm!” noted Chamber president Elan Wurtzel. “Rain may have put a damper on us the first two years, but we sure came back strong for the third. We had almost four times the number of sponsors and with that generous boost, we were able to create a bigger and better fair. The community certainly came out and enjoyed it all.”
In addition to thanking its many sponsors, the Chamber extends its appreciation to Gretchen Browne and the staff at the Plainview-Old Bethpage Library for the use of its grounds.
Barbara Mars is a member of the POB Chamber of Commerce.
2014 Chamber of Commerce Craft and Gift Fair Sponsors
GOLD SPONSOR
• ProHEALTH Care Associates
SILVER SPONSORS
• Astoria Bank
• Law Offices of ELAN WURTZEL, P.C.
• Plainview LIJ Hospital
• STAT Health
• STR8 Smiles Orthodontics
• TD Bank
BRONZE SPONSORS
• All Music
• Attitude Financial Advisors
• Beechwood Organization
• Bethpage Federal Credit Union
• Carlyle Catering
• Cruise Planners/American Express Travel
• Fairway Market
• Good Shepherd Lutheran Church & School
• Jennifer Rubin Frisch D.D.S.
• Marcia Finkelstein – Lynda Baker Realty
• Marriott Residence Inn Plainview
• Mid-Island Y JCC
• Minuteman Press of Bellerose
• Plainview Animal Hospital
• Sweet Karma Desserts
• The Family Wellness Center
T-SHIRT SPONSORS
• Dr. Steven M. Riess, Chiropractor
• Dona Malter Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
• European Wax Center of Plainview
• Family Bagels & Deli of Plainview
• Garden Rooms Landscape Design & Construction
• Legislator Judy Jacobs
• Panera Bread
• Plainview Diner
• ProHEALTH Radiology of Plainview
• Vernon C. Wagner Funeral Homes
