EAST LIVERPOOL Pottery fest toasts history

The event celebrates the history of the pottery industry in the region.
EAST LIVERPOOL -- The 100th anniversary of Hall China Co. is the theme of the 36th annual Tri-State Pottery Festival, today through Saturday downtown.
Rides, games, food and entertainment help celebrate the region's pottery history, said Pam Hoppel, executive director of the East Liverpool Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Masonic Temple will be the site for souvenirs of the festival and displays by pottery manufacturers.
Pottery collectibles for the 2003 festival and for previous festivals will be available for purchase.
Entertainment from disco to gospel will be performed throughout the weekend on the festival stage at Broadway and Fifth Street.
Pottery olympics
Doorknob tossing and pottery olympics will take place throughout the weekend.
The pottery olympics will include games such as plate tossing and ware-board races, examples of games popular with pottery workers.
Children can bring their favorite pets to be judged at 9 a.m. Saturday.
Throughout the week, amusement rides will be offered, with specials daily. Kids can ride from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or from 4-10 p.m. for $10.
The parade at 5 p.m. Saturday will feature Tom Mayers, vice president and secretary of Hall China Co., as grand marshal.
Bike night is at 6 p.m. Saturday. The gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts is sponsored by the fire and police departments.
The festival concludes Saturday with a fireworks display at 10 p.m.
Hoppel said the fireworks are dedicated to members of the military, particularly those who are returning from service in the Persian Gulf.