Apple Festival thrives despite wet weekend

By Paul Forman with files from Mark Ribble and Deanna Bertrand

While the weekend weather dampened the spirits of some, the 45th Ruthven Apple Festival soldiered on, creating memories for those in attendance, including the crowning of a new apple peeling champion.

The annual event drew 120 vendors, most of whom managed to keep their merchandise dry throughout the weekend. 

The sun made an appearance on Sunday afternoon to allow those who wanted to see the classic car show or enjoy the live entertainment, a few hours to do so. 

The weekend kicked off with an opening ceremony on Saturday morning, September 28, followed by the famous apple peeling contest among local dignitaries.

A new champion was crowned as Lakeshore Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt bested eight other competitors from across the county. Last year’s champion, Joe Bachetti from Tecumseh, was not able to make this year’s festival.

Walstedt was asked about his winning formula and said, “It takes a good knife, keen concentration and a wide peel to win.”

Live entertainment took to the stage shortly thereafter, wrapping up early in the evening, giving way to Sunday, which promised better weather.

Sunday’s car show featured about 150 classic vehicles.