by Davin White

STAFF WRITER

CLARKSBURG -- Area residents got an early flavor of the Glen Elk Festival Friday night as they wandered through the games and vendors, rode carnival rides, a four-car train and even a horse.

But others, like regular festival visitor and Clarksburg resident Mary Louise Torjak, were glad the festival was held just because it was "good for Glen Elk."

"I think it's grown," Torjak said. "It's getting even bigger."

Glen Elk native Melissa Magill, currently living in Clarksburg, said she likes the hometown feeling of the festival.

"I like the food ... the home-cooked food," Magill said.

Magill, who used to live on Clark Street in Glen Elk, also was glad that her son Brandon could have fun.

"My son can ride the rides," Magill said.

Clarksburg residents Stacy and Mariah Wilson had fun riding the horses in a small grassy area in the Clarksburg neighborhood.

Stacy, 7, told his mom Rebecca, "I want to do it again."

"It's fun," Mariah, 6, said of the horse ride.

"I'll agree what she said," Stacy added.

Some festival-goers were considering coming back for the additional festivities today.

"I probably will," said Henry Griffith of Clarksburg. "It's something to do."

Magill said she'll be back later in the afternoon today.

Festivities will conclude at 11 p.m. today, with the festival opening at 10 a.m., line dancing at noon, the Shaffer Brothers gospel music at 1:15 p.m., karaoke from 3 to 7 p.m. and Scottish dancers from 7 to 8 p.m.

Staff writer Davin White can be reached at 626-1448.