WHITE LAKE — Twenty-nine years ago some 400,000 people went looking for peace and love and descended on a poorly prepared concert site in a muddy dairy field.

The local papers were full of terms like psychedelic and freak-out. A modern day Lady Godiva made an appearance on Broadway in Monticello and Sheriff Lou Ratner called on all motorcycle-owning males over 21 to help direct traffic.

In 1998, the scene is somewhat different. The theme is "A Day in the Garden" and million-dollar homes surround the old field. The big stage is in place, but this time it's overlooking hundreds of porta-johns, generators and portable payphones, miles of crowd control fence and acres of majestic fair tents.

Tons of wood chips will absorb any mud, should it appear, and elaborate traffic and parking plans are in place.

Cruising along Route 17B has a different feel these days as well. Freshly paved and well-manicured roads signal a change in the air. New businesses are popping up everywhere and prosperity is beginning to revive the staggered economy.

Suppliers trucks are making extra trips as business people from Monticello on west are preparing for the crowds.

The historic Bethel Country Store, freshly painted and ready with extra stock, has never looked better. Owner Kamer Kukij can't wait to see what will happen. He says his wish is to earn enough to have an easy winter.

Woodstock Emporium owner Barbara Natelson is welcoming business as usual. "We are always busy," she says.

Natelson has prepared for this year's concert by remembering the original — "Twenty-thousand people were camping in my neighbor's yard." The extras spilled into hers.

Most places are just ready for a busy weekend and everyone wants some of the action. Roy's Sport Shop will be welcoming the more sports-minded weekend guests with a "Day in the Garden Worms" special.

Sullivan County seems to be ready this time.

River Reporter
Copyright 1998,
Stuart Communications, Inc.
all rights reserved.