April 15 was a beautiful day in Fairfield Harbour, starting with the Blessing of the Fleet and boat parade in the morning, followed by a starlit night highlighted by beach music performed by Alex Williams set against the background of the water. Golf carts, cars, and those on foot arrived to enjoy each other and the music. Almost 600 hundred people attended the event from 6 pm until nearly 10 pm. The ever-present line dancers were there, and adults and children were dancing together. Almost everyone was singing along to the popular tunes. Food trucks had tasty food, including fried Oreos, nachos and tacos, BBQ sandwiches, hamburgers, and French fries.
The Fairfield POA Events Committee, headed by Debby Lutz, orchestrated the planning of this event. After success in her other community in Suffolk, Virginia, Debby developed the Entertainment Committee idea. The idea was for neighbors to get together and have fun. The board was very receptive, and the rest is history. The committee members are Anne Gehlsen, Sherry Weissman, Becki Meminger, Terry Jo Parkin, Marty Rosen, Rose MacNeal, Mary Cropper, Bridget Severle, and Doris Dean.
There is much behind-the-scenes work for such an event, including a planned schedule by March. The concert with Alex Williams has been on the schedule since the successful show last year. Alex Williams lives in Roanoke Rapids, NC, and is part of the original "Cool and the Gang."
Every committee member contributed to the event's success, including booking, publicity, planning and running the free raffle, the free popcorn machine, and arranging food trucks.
The committee plans future events for this year, including more concerts, a Fourth of July Parade, a Chili Cook-Off, a Cornhole tournament, a Trunk or Treat for Halloween, and a holiday celebration. Alex Williams will return with a Live-Music Mix on September 15, 2023.
Doris Dean said, "I am blessed to work with this talented committee and have met wonderful people in FFH." Member, Becki Meminger, appreciates the benefit of meeting new people. Anne Gehlsen stated how important it was to be involved with planning events in FFH and the important impact of the committee. Mary Cropper said that she looks forward to what is ahead for the community of Fairfield Harbour, utilizing each member's talents and how wonderful it is to be part of such a positive, passionate, and influential group of people.
To join this vital and fun committee, contact: eventsfairfield@gmail.com or talk to any committee members.