CITY GETS CORNY

45th edition of Corn Festival underway

North Ridgeville welcomed back a summer tradition with the opening night of the 45th annual North Ridgeville Corn Festival on Aug. 9.

This year’s festival brings back old favorites and welcomes some new vendors as food, fun and entertainment seal the deal for corn enthusiasts.

North Ridgeville Mayor G. David Gillock began the open

ing ceremonies by presenting a proclamation to Corn Festival President John Butkowski in declaring Aug. 9 as North Ridgeville Corn Festival Day, and welcomed the city to another great festival weekend.

“I can ensure that all who attend will have a delightful

“And I hope everyone has a great time, and it looks like we in are in for lots of great weather.”

— North Ridgeville Mayor G. David Gillock

weekend and I want to thank everyone for joining our city in celebrating another year of sweet corn consumption festivities and enjoyment,” Gillock said. “And I hope everyone has a great time and it looks like we in are in for lots of great weather.”

North Ridgeville natives state Rep. Gayle Manning and state Sen. Nathan Manning presented proclamations and echoed the longevity of the festival and the passion of the community in keeping it vibrant.

“It’s just fantastic that this is the 45th year. I’m only 37 years old and I’m pretty sure I’ve been to all 37 festivals in my life,” Nathan Manning said. “It’s my favorite festival around. Congratulations and have some fun.”

Butkowski thanked the Corn Festival Committee which is made up of 18 volunteers who work hard all year to give the city three days of fun in the sun.

“It’s hard to believe that

we’ve been doing this for 45 years, but it doesn’t happen without a lot of hard work,” Butkowski said.

Butkowski also recognized the city of North Ridgeville and North Ridgeville City School District.

He said over the last

eight years the Corn Festival Committee has donated more than $100,000 back to various community organizations benefiting the people.

In addition, every year the Corn Fest Committee awards six $500 scholar

ships to North Ridgeville High School seniors.

The Golden Kernel Award was presented to Roger Galippo along with Toni and Gary Krone in recognition of their years of involvement in the community.

KEVIN MARTIN — THE MORNING JOURNAL State Rep. Gayle Manning, right, presents a proclamation to Roger Gallipo, left, at the North Ridgeville Corn Festival on Aug. 9. Gallipo was presented with the 2019Golden Kernel Award in recognition of his years of community service.

KEVIN MARTIN — THE MORNING JOURNAL North Ridgeville Corn Festival President John Butkowski, right, presents Toni Krone, left, and Gary Krone, center, with the 2019Golden Kernel Award in recognition of their years of community service on Aug. 9.