By Anita Raymon
Once again the sun shone at the Queens County Farm Museum on Sunday for the annual Strawberry Festival. There were fresh strawberries, strawberry shortcake, strawberry jams and jellies, and funnel cakes.
There were many hand-crafting booths, antique sellers of pictures and old photos, war occupation Japanese pottery and souvenirs for festival goers to linger over and buy. The antique jewelry and artifacts from country homes were also intriguing.
The Citified Country Girls, under the able tutelage of Sandy and Fran, provided free dance lessons under the big tent, accompanied by the Savannah Sky Band. They are happy to welcome newcomers every Tuesday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. for dancing and to learn new steps under the stars. There is not only country dancing; the gals teach Latin, Irish, Cajun and Swing steps. They will be happy to talk to you at the Farm on Tuesday evenings throughout the summer.
As always, kids were everywhere, sampling shortcake, hamburgers, franks, and chocolate-covered strawberries. They joined in sack races and throwing plastic “scrawny chickens” to see who threw the greatest distance.
There was Herman Bemal of Douglaston with his blonde daughter Kelsey, age 5. She was twirling around and eating a huge chocolate-covered strawberry at the same time. “It's a great day to come to the farm, and it's so close to home,” said Dad.
Then there was budding Little Leaguer Steven Bogle, 7, and his mom, Lisa Sanchez. Steven plays in the HBQVB baseball league in Hollis, and has the athletic build of a future star. He participated in the sack races and the chicken-throwing contest with a group of lively, excited kids. Lisa Sanchez said, “We come three times a year to different events at the Farm. It's always great. My brother is along today for the fun.”
The Queens County Farm is at 73-50 Little Neck Parkway in Floral Park. There is a petting zoo with small animals to hold, and beautiful healthy plants for sale at the Greenhouse. You can also learn about the history of the borough's farms and visit the Adriance Farmhouse. Call 718-347-FARM.
Reach Qguide writer Anita Raymon by e-mail at Timesledger@ aol.com or call 229-0300, Ext. 139.
