STANDISH – The Standish Summer Spectacular will return for year 12 on June 23, 2011. The three-day event has grown substantially in the past few years and the festival’s committee attended the Town Council workshop on Tuesday seeking additional funds to make this year’s event a reality – a request the council was happy to grant.

“We will certainly see where we can find the funds,” said Town Council Chairwoman Cynthia Hopkins. “What I see with this event focusing on all the different areas is that you are bringing back that sense of community that I think we have lost.”

The Town Council usually gives the Recreation department $3,500 for the event but this year will be donating $4,000. The rest of the money to pay for the event comes from business sponsors and donations.

Started in 1999, the festival has repeatedly changed names, added locations and gained hundreds of spectators. Traditionally the festival kicks off on Friday evening at Kiwanis Beach, but this year the committee hopes to add an extra day and start it Thursday evening with a cookout possibly at Sebago Lake or Johnson Field.

Last year in an effort to include all Standish residents the Spectacular happenings were held at different locations throughout the town including, Steep Falls, Sebago Village and Standish Corner. Events consisted of magic shows, barbecues, a beach boogie, a parade and fireworks. Additionally, the historic Old Red Church and Marrett House were open for free tours on Saturday.

The Spectacular committee is currently looking for volunteers, sponsors, event ideas and most importantly a Grand Marshal.

“We are currently accepting nominations for a parade Grand Marshall,” said committee member Bill Tracy.

Nominations can be made by contacting Linda Brooks at Standish Recreation or visiting the Spectacular’s Facebook page.