Annual Sidewalk Sale held under clear skies

| 19 Jul 2012 | 01:16

WARWICK — Fears that thunderstorms and heavy rain would threaten the annual event, especially Sunday’s watermelon contest, proved unfounded.

The Warwick Merchants’ annual Sidewalk Sale took place under mostly sunny skies on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 13-15. And new for this year, the watermelon-eating contest, courtesy of Warwick ShopRite, was, as expected, a fun event for both the participants and onlookers.

Winners in the age five to 10 category and the age 11 and above group each received a $20 gift certificate.

“I forgot how much I enjoyed watermelon” chimed Tim Mullally, co-chair of the 2012 Sidewalk Sale and a contest winner.

The annual Sidewalk Sale, co-chaired by Mullally and Sue Loughren , was hosted by the Warwick Merchants Guild with local shops and eateries contributing to fund the event. The merchants also had the generous support of Interstate Waste Services as a sponsor.

“Again we lucked out with the weather,” said Mullally. “The rain held off until closing time.”

The street fair atmosphere on Railroad Avenue, was a welcoming addition this year with the addition of assorted antique dealers, all of whom reported good business.

And the “Art on Green” collective worked cooperatively with the “ Paris Flea Market” theme. Mullally reported that live music, art, and antiques proved to be a perfect combination.

“Our locals really look forward to our Annual Sidewalk Sale,” said Mary Beth Schlichting, president of the Warwick Merchants Guild. “And for our out -of -towners, it’s just a nice surprise. Everybody loves a bargain.”