UNION SPRINGS - Forget NASCAR, the Frontenac Fun Days had spectators watching plastic ducks as they floated down a brook toward the finish line.

The Ninth Annual Fun Day in Frontenac Park in Union Springs continues to grow each year, while keeping some of the favorite attractions, such as the duck race.

The festival raises money for area charities and non-profit organizations.

The Frontenac Historical Society hosts the water race with a little help from the Union Springs Fire Department, which gave the brook a boost by adding a splash

of water to help the colorful ducks make it to the finish line.

Pat Nichols, owner of Finger Lakes Variety and Sports, was selling items in the expanding flea market and craft section.

The foster mother brought six teenagers to the festival, which offered them a place they can interact casually with young people and have a good time.

Nichols supported the concept of giving charities and non-profit organizations the proceeds. Lions Club of Union Springs organizes the event each year.

Many groups had concessions to raise money or they received a piece of the revenue. Sons of the American Legion sold barbecue chicken, Lions Club offered food, and American Legion also sold meals.

“It's a fundraiser to raise money for the community (organizations) and a social event to draw people together,” Lions President Tim Dodman said.

Families could enjoy the vintage boats, car show, crafts, a variety of concessions, the music and a softball tournament. People could scope out the wildlife MaxMan Reptile Rescue brought. Diana Sleiertin answered questions about a few snakes as she showed people their friendly sides.

The Lions Club first organized a triathlon, but it failed to be a money maker for the charities. Later, they tried a boat and car show. Since then, the event has grown each year, with added attractions through the years and expanded features, organizer Warren Albrecht said.

The event also reminds residents, and neighbors the park is a family-friendly location near Cayuga Lake.

“It shows we have a great little village,” Dodman said. He added the park is a gem not too many people know about or utilize.

Organizers always have a positive reaction from local businesses and the residents, he added.

“I think the community has a sense of community pride and cooperation,” Dodman said.

And a sense of friendly competitions, at least on the softball field.

Seven local co-ed teams vied for the title of champion. Unbeknownst to them, the umpires received honors, too. The Lions Club presented Slim Walters and Tom Owens with community service awards for organizing the tournament each year.

Staff writer Jessica Soule can be reached at 253-5311, ext. 267 or jessica.soule@lee.net