Although he did not create Waldoboro Day, Steve Cartwright accepts some credit for its resurrection.

"It's fun to see something that died in the late ’70s revived," said Cartwright who was a major force in restructuring the day-long event which took place again on June 20.

Cartwright was instrumental in getting the many businesses, civic groups and governmental offices on board back in the late ’90s to provide support and their presence for activities that start at breakfast and end with fireworks at dark.

"We brought back the street. It is a lot of fun," he said.

Cartwright concedes that Waldoboro is not a destination for either tourists or residents of nearby towns. Many people passing through only see the businesses on Route 1 and not the historic downtown area that has recently seen the addition of restaurants, shops and art galleries.

"Most people only remember Moody's Diner,” he said.

In addition, June 20 is also the day selected for various festivals including the Pirate Rendezvous in Damariscotta and the kickoff of Windjammer Days in Boothbay Harbor.

"It is mainly for us in Waldoboro," Cartwright said.

Cartwright gave up his leadership position seven years ago, but still serves on the committee headed by Caren Clark. He was instrumental in inviting retired Medomak Valley High School teacher Jean Lawrence to lead the annual parade.

And although he is not organizing the 5k road race, he planned to run in it, barefoot.