Solvay (WSYR-TV) -- If you grew up in Solvay, chances are you waited in line for the Polenta, cheered on a live band and watched the night sky light up in fireworks each year for the annual Summer Festival. But financial troubles are taking their toll and this year, it’ll take more than a village to save this long-standing tradition.
Every August an empty field in Solvay comes to life with rides, games, a parade and food worth the long wait in line.
But this tasty and festive tradition may soon disappear from Solvay’s summer landscape. Money is tight and the village is unable to pull funds from its budget. However, an appeal to area businesses has generated a $25,000 commitment, but the village needs $15,000 more to put on the much-loved event.
“I hate to break tradition, but we have to do what is best for the people of this village. We can't overtax them,” Solvay Mayor Kathy Marinelli said.
Solvay neighbors seem to just as troubled.
“We’ve gone for years, even my parents have gone too. It would be so sad,” said festival fan, Pam Suchomski.
“If they’re not coming back, that would be disappointing for all the kids and families,” said another fan, Jenayah Tremaine.
The hope now is for sponsors to step up, so families aren’t let down.
