Master Lee demonstrating Tae Kwon Do.

There was something for everyone, who attended the 4^th Annual Cary Fest Sept. 16-17.

The mild, sunny weather was perfect for a “last gasp of summer festival.”

Chris and Kari Gassman, from Crystal Lake, brought their children, Lauren, 7, Rachel, 5, and Bennet, 2, because it sounded like a great family outing. “And for the violins,” chimed in Lauren. Chris teaches his children violin and the Cary Street Festival gave them a chance to see other children play.

4 Strings Attached presented a Youth Violin Performance on Sept. 17. Lauren got a chance to get on stage herself.

“I don’t like performing,” said Rachel. “Maybe next year.”

The Gassmans live in Crystal Lake. Other family friendly performances included, Story Time presented by Language Stars, Lee’s Martial Arts, traditional, competitive, and modern dances of Ireland by McNulty Irish Dance, a talent show, Cary Junior Trojan Poms Performance, and a cultural experience of Mariachi music and dance presented by the Hispanic Ministry.

Kathy Eiring, who provided music between live performances and ran trivia contests.

Grand master Lee from Lee’s Martial Arts Academy, is one of the highest-ranking Tae Kwan Do master in the world.

“The goal of Lee’s Academy is to “instill courtesy, and integrity into the younger generation,” explained Dave Dekker at the academy’s booth. “It also helps older people get more in shape and enjoy the community of martial arts.”

He got involved because his son became interested. Dekker appreciates the bond the experience created between the two of them.

“I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in,” he said. “And Lee encourages us to improve the world around us.”

Dekker got involved because of his son.

“We appreciated the bond the experience created,” he said.

According to Lynn Caccavallo, director of Cary’s Chamber of Commerce, Cary’s 4^th Annual Main Street Fest was a huge success due to volunteers and local business participation.

Business booths at the festival.

“Every year the event gets bigger and better,” said Caccavallo.

The Chamber of Commerce runs the Fest, but she was quick to point out that “It wouldn’t be possible without the support of sponsors, volunteers, and the Chamber of Commerce members.”

The $5 gate price helps the Trojan Track Cross Country Association and the Cary-Grove High School Boosters Club. The Cary Cruise Nights, the Merry Cary Parade and Fest, and other Chamber initiatives also benefit from the gate fee.

Besides being fun, it helps businesses by creating leads for companies like Pella Windows, Dip’n Good Dips, and Wild Rose Flower Design who all had booths at the Fest. All the food vendors were chamber members.

“It gives the businesses a chance to engage with community,” said Caccavallo. “They can showcase businesses and their interest in the community.”

Caccavallo explained that almost as soon as they wrap up this event, they begin planning for next year. Brian Simmons oversees the Village’s business development, and Caccavallo helps new them get going by introducing the owners to people and the community. “Our group is heavily oriented in community involvement,” she said.

Caccavallo has lived in Cary for 27 years, and raised her six children there.

“Cary has a great small town atmosphere and community,” she said.

The next event is the Halloween Walk from 11 a.m. to noon Oct. 28 at the Cary Jewel and from 1-2: p.m. in Fox River Grove.

On Dec. 3, the Chamber hosts the annual Merry Cary Holiday Parade and Festival. They had 75 float entries last year, and this year promises to be even better.

— 4th Annual Cary Fest offers attendees last gasp of summer  —