HOEFLICH@MYDAILYSENTINEL.COM

CHESTER – There was something fun for everyone at Saturday’s Chester Shade Days, an annual summer festival which features carnival foods and games, gospel music, harmonica playing competition, a pie baking contest and then climaxing with an evening Civil War ball.

Contestants from Ohio and West Virginia competed for the title of Ohio’s 2011 Harmonica Playing Champion with Ivan Lindsey of Delaware coming out the winner. He was presented a $300 check. Runner-up Danny Gajorski of North Benton received $150. The contestants then played for an audience sing-along of old favorites.

Pat Holter and Dale Colburn were recognized and presented framed certificates in appreciation of their work with the Chester Shade Historical Association since its organization 15 years ago.

Recognized were winners in the pie baking contest, Betty Newell, first, Jean Hilton, second, and Pat Holter, third, with each receiving a monetary award. The 13 pies were then sold at auction to benefit the Chester-Shade organization raising $655.

Other activities of the day included a variety of gospel music by area musicians, corn hole competitions, a pet show, and recognition of the oldest woman and man attending. Food was available all day long at the firehouse and from the Racine Band Boosters booth.

Following the Chautauqua program, the annual Civil War ball got underway with Jean Hilton “Miz Rosebud” calling for the dancers, many in period-style ball gowns.