Harlem holds 20th annual celebration

Thousands of guests filled the streets of downtown Harlem on Saturday, marking the 20th anniversary of a festival honoring the town's most famous native son, Oliver Hardy, and his comic sidekick, Stan Laurel.

The tribute, which was expected to attract more than 30,000 people to the town of 3,000, featured a parade, screenings of Laurel and Hardy films and many arts, crafts and food vendors.

"This has to be the largest crowd ever," said attendee Evelyn Stokes, of Harlem. "The weather was just perfect; we really enjoyed it (the parade)."

Hardy was born in the city in 1892, and together he and Laurel made more than 100 films.

"Today is going to be another great festival," Harlem Mayor Bobby Culpepper said. "Naturally, this event helps with the economy and it draws a good light for the local merchants."

Orlando, Fla., residents Jamie McKenna and Bill Leavy, who are Laurel and Hardy impersonators, marked their 17th year attending the festival.

Also milling around was Dr. R.J. DeSanto, of Charlotte, N.C., an author who has written about Laurel and Hardy and their contemporaries.

"I love coming to this festival. It is always a good time," Dr. DeSanto said.