RUMFORD – This summer marked the 28th year of the Rumford Public Library’s Summer Fest Program and accompanying summer reading program.

Many local youngsters and summer visitors participated in the four weeks of daily fun and enrichment activities, which included crafts, magic, juggling, dance, gymnastics, programs on fire and personal safety, an introduction to Shakespeare, an opportunity to learn about (and hold) several snakes, storytellers and picnics in the park, Fun Day and two performances of “Toy Story” by the Children’s Theatre at the Rumford Municipal Auditorium.

The program was a success due to the many individuals who gave of their time and talents, the businesses who sponsored the annual program and the parents and caregivers who participated in the daily events with the children.

This year 66 children through the age of 14 took part in the summer reading program, “Discover New Trails @ Your Library – READ!” with 52 meeting their reading goals all four weeks.

The many people who were part of Summer Fest included Duncan Inches, who brought Shakespeare to life; Ben Byam, Don Coulombe, Helen Chase and Gordon Bell of the Rumford Fire Department; Christine Moore; Kim and Addy Fuller; Almodarr and Angelique of Almodarr’s Grand Illusion; Sheila Curtis, Trickster Fox; Maine Forest Ranger Jay Bernard and Smokey Bear.

Also, Allison Roy, Jasmine Jacques and Brianna Elliott; Barbara Hammond; Kathy Sutton and the Mountain Valley Middle School and Mountain Valley High School students who make up “Kids on the Block” puppet troupe; Louanne Thibodeau and several GRCC gymnasts; Rob and Kim White; Sue Bousquet and Deb Dolloff.

Also, Dennis Morang of Eastern Mountain Sports in Augusta; Lynn Frost and Marie, Elizabeth and Noah Tanguay-Collins; and Nancy O. DeMilner, director of Children’s Theatre.

During the performances of “Toy Story,” Craig Zurhorst operated the sound system, newly purchased with memorial donations from the family and friends of Emma Viger. Joe Volkernick videotaped the evening performance of “Toy Story” for the local access channel.

Fun Day volunteers included Becky Thibodeau, Michelle and Heidi Billings, Trina, Chelsea and Trisha Fortin, Susan DeRoehn, Kim and Nicholas Hamel, Elizabeth Lawlor, Courtney Calden, Savanna Ford, Denise Belanger and Serene Burt. Sherry Milligan provided the use of children’s game tables.

Those wishing to see pictures of Summer Fest, visit the library’s Web site at www.rumford.lib.me.us and click on Summer Fest 2004.