Hamlin's Carnival rockin' at 55

The Hamlin Fireman's Carnival may be outgrowing its name. In its 55th consecutive year of operation, the carnival boasts more family entertainment than ever before including nearly a dozen different bands. The event is open to the public August 3-6.

"It could be time to be called the Hamlin Fair," said Mike Gross, fire department president. "This is like a fair. There is an atmosphere of many different things going on all at once." Advanced sale tickets are available until August 2 in the town clerk's office for a discounted rate of $11 per person. At the carnival, unlimited ride tickets are $14 per person.

In addition to many musical acts, this year's carnival includes an auto show, safety demonstrations, a horseshoe tournament, a chicken barbecue, fireworks and a $2,000 cash giveaway. As far as Gross is concerned, bigger is better for families, the fire department and the town. Gross said this year's carnival should appeal to a wide spectrum of ages and interests and will hopefully be financially beneficial to the department and merchants in the town.

"Revenue from the carnival makes up well over 50 percent of our budget," Gross said. As opening night draws closer, Gross' phone is ringing constantly and people are even stopping by his house to be part of this year's big event. The following are highlights for each day. Use the website at www.hamlinfire.com to get the most updated information.

Thursday, August 3

•Kiddie Parade at 6:30 p.m.

•Hilton Gazebo Band at 7:30 p.m. in Event Tent

•Lake Road Band, following HGB

•Aces and Eights at 9 p.m. in Beer Tent

Friday, August 4

•Grand Firemen's Parade at 7 p.m. (rain or shine)

•Second Nature at 9:30 p.m. in Beer Tent

•Saturday, August 5

•Horseshoe Tournament sign up at 11 a.m. in Beer Tent

•4th annual Monroe Extinguisher Car Cruise-in 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. including an RHIA Dragster and Hooters Girls

•Chicken BBQ 4 to 6 p.m., offering drive-up and drive-thru service

•Rusty Strings at 7 p.m. in Event Tent

•Ricky Seifert, following RS

•Catch 22 at 9 p.m. in Beer Tent

•Fireworks at 11 p.m.

Sunday, August 6

A huge children's safety demonstration featuring: Operation Safe Child noon to 4 p.m., Firefighters United for Safety Education, and the New York State Troopers.

•Country Music Jamboree, 1 to 6 p.m. Featuring J.B. & Company, Julie Dunlap and High Maintenance and Rebels Posse

•Karaoke Contest sign up at noon in Event Tent

•$2,000 cash drawing at 6 p.m.

July 30, 2006