RUMFORD — With this long winter, it’s hard to believe the second annual Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Festival is just a little over a month away.
Members of the EnvisionRumford! committee are hard at work as they are already putting the finishing touches on an event that was a resounding success in downtown in its debut last spring.
The main part of the fest takes place on the Island on Saturday, May 10, featuring lumberjack contests and activities, as well as a logging equipment parade and display.
Anyone interested in being a food vendor, crafter or flea market participant, should contact Tammi Lyons at 364-3355, ext. 221 or email her at tlyons@gwi.net. Space is limited, so securing your space early is recommended.
One thing to improve this year’s festival is that EnvisionRumford! is working to tie in with two other local events — the Child Advocacy Day at the Rumford Eagles and fundraiser for Special Olympics at Hope Association. To that end, the nonprofit committee is exploring options for a free bus service to shuttle people between these three activities.
One of the highlights for the Eagles’ event will be a bike rodeo put on by the Mexico Police Explorers. The Eagles will also be hosting an afternoon music jam and a supper.
At the Hope Association, there will be a craft show, a petting zoo, a car wash, with the $5 per bag special at the What Not Shop. The Briar Patch greenhouse will also be busy as this will be Mother’s Day weekend.
Among the new events is an addition to the look-a-like contest. There will be a Paul Bunyan contest, but added to that will be a Lucette contest. Lucette is Paul Bunyan’s sweetheart. Once more, John Arsenault will be donating wood carvings to the winners.
Another nice addition will be a story walk by Litaracy of Maine. The story — about Paul Bunyan, of course — will be read along window shops in the downtown.
A week earlier, on May 3, EnvisionRumford! will again have a cleaup day in the downtown. Activities include planting flowers, washing windows, etc.
Volunteers are encouraged for the cleanup, which will start around 8 a.m., as well to help at the festival. Those interested can call Tammi at 364-3355, ext. 221. People who would like to participate in the Lumberjack parade can also call this number.

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