Now that Ironmaster Days 2001 is over, many of those involved are reflecting on the event, and their reflections are positive.

Tuesday, June 26, 2001

Now that Ironmaster Days 2001 is over, many of those involved are reflecting on the event, and their reflections are positive.

"Everyone was really pleased," Betty Adkins, committee member and Ironton Business Association president, said.

Turnout for the entertainment, particularly The Byrds, was good, Adkins said.

"We filled the streets with crowds clear up to the intersections."

The events ran smoothly, and the only problem was the rain, Adkins said. But even that did not deter people from attending.

The food vendors were successful, as was the booth run by the Amish.

The car show, "hit and miss" engines, tractor parade, and cartoon characters from Fox Family drew a significant audience, Adkins said.

The art and flower shows displayed in the Municipal Building seemed popular as well, she said.

Ironton Art Association member Nancy Ford agreed.

"I think people enjoyed looking," she said.

Artist Norman Wright sold several paintings, Ford said.

Several downtown businesses had sidewalk sales that added to the carnival atmosphere.

Unger’s Shoe Store had increased business during Ironmaster Days.

"It was great," owner Joe Unger said. "We were really busy all three days."

The store even gained some new customers who had come downtown for the festival, Unger said.

Also drawing an audience were the local musical groups that performed early in the evening. Hank Haller, who performed Thursday and Friday, did particularly well, Adkins said.

The event was almost like a homecoming, because people were able to see people they had not seen for a while, she said.

Adkins said she has not heard a complaint about this year’s Ironmaster Days yet.

Some people have made suggestions for the future, though. A petting zoo, more crafters, a rock climbing wall and boat rides were among the things people said they would like to see at future Ironmaster Days, Adkins said.

"Each time you find better ways to do an event," she said.