OWASCO - The weather reports indicated it was raining everywhere but Emerson Park on Saturday.

More good news for TomatoFest organizers who scrambled to scrape together enough funds to put the 21st annual event on this year. Some last-minute sponsor additions and donations ensured the festival would survive at least another year.

“The work and stress is nothing as long as we have a good weekend and turn a good profit so we can make a big donation to the food pantries in December,” TomatoFest board co-president Janice Sanders said.

Proceeds and canned goods that can be donated at the door in exchange for free admission of children under 12 will go to Auburn-area food pantries this winter.

“We did it,” entertainment director Diane Bauso said. “The only thing we need now is sunshine.”

Festival-goers began lining up before the gates opened at about 11 a.m. The hazy weather and somewhat cloudy sky didn't deter a steady stream of attendees getting off shuttle buses every 10 minutes or so.

In addition to several produce, craft and hot food booths, there is plenty to do inside at TomatoFest. Musicians and entertainers on three stages provided some tent-covered options.

“All of the music entertainers donated their services,” Bauso said. “Then the sound guys got on board.

“We figure they saved us $5,000 to $8,000,” she said.

Dianne Stankus and Phyllis Cannucciari, of Auburn, were enjoying some sun before a performance on the lakeside stage.

“It's just a nice day to be out here,” said Stankus, who typically attends the festival with Cannucciari for the crafts and food.

Dale and Elaine Buchberger were enjoying the breeze coming off Owasco Lake as they watched 10-year-old Zachary take a solo spin on the swinging chair ride. Zachary's day of riding on of the many on hand was just getting started, though mom and dad had their own plans.

“We come for the shopping, food,” Dale Buchberger said. “Mostly food.”

There was plenty of festival fare on tap and some less traditional offerings in the children's tent.

The “Veggie Art” table was consistently full of grade schoolers eager to make an impression with lettuce, pepper, potato, carrot, cauliflower, corn and cucumber creations. Jeffrey Stechuchak, 9, of Owasco, said the attraction is one of his favorites as he intensely assembled a rocket ship with toothpicks.

“We come out every year,” Jeffrey's grandmother, Betty Westmiller said. “It's a great cause and good fun for everyone.”

Marie Spinosa, 77, came in her amateur clown attire and entertaining partners/puppets, Bobo 1 and Bobo 2. Armed with balloons and a big smile, the Mercy Health & Rehabilitation Center resident, said she was glad to be back sharing the fun after missing last year's TomatoFest.

“I just love to make people happy like the Lord makes me happy,” she said with a laugh. “I'm enjoying myself.

“I like to come every year I can,” Spinosa said.

TomatoFest continues today starting at 11 a.m.

Staff writer Shane Liebler can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 248 or shane.liebler@lee.net