Youngsters give Yogi Bear high-fives as he greets spectators during Saturday’s Guinea Jubilee parade. The mascot was there representing the Jellystone Park Camp-Resort at Gloucester Point. In spite of inclement weather, a large crowd lined Guinea Road in Bena for the annual parade. Photo by Charlie Koenig.
According to Hogge, the rain was a big factor in keeping down crowds for Friday’s opening night. "I estimated we had between 800 and 1,000 people," he said. That is about 4,000 fewer than last year, according to Hogge.
"The committee certainly appreciates the courtesy extended to us by the vendors," Hogge said. With three inches of rain falling in and around the festival grounds, he said the decision was made early to stop traffic into the area around 2 p.m. All the vendors were required to carry their materials from their vehicles to the festival area.
"They all understood," Hogge said. "The courtesy they displayed to us was fantastic and it made the job for us a lot easier."
On Saturday, Hogge said the rain lasted about 15 to 20 minutes early in the day. However, the damage to the fields was already done.
Carl and Frances Morris of Redart and Richmond take a look at the wheelhouse of the Peggy, a deck boat that is being restored by the Mathews Maritime Foundation, during Saturday’s Maritime Heritage Festival. Also pictured, at right, is Kerry Hall, a waterman and MMF member. Photo by Charlie Koenig.