Snake River fest marks fifth year

COLFAX - On June 18, 1972, Boyer Park and Marina attracted crowds "under cool and cloudy skies" for the park's official dedication on the shore of the Snake River.

Exactly 50 years later, the park drew a host of visitors once again, this time in observance of the Snake River Family Festival, which had its fifth annual celebration last Saturday, June 18.

Despite rainy conditions, the park's lots were booked to capacity with 13 vendors and informational exhibits honoring the Snake River's vital role in the region.

"We filled all the available spots that we had," Port of Whitman spokeswoman Sarah Highfield said. "We're really pleased."

One exhibit featured an operational 1914 Fairbanks-Morse Stationary Engine, supervised by owners Wayne and Steve Tippett of Clarkston.

The machine, which had previously been used to pump water from the Snake River into irrigation canals, has been restored and passed down in the Tippett household.

"We're keeping it in the family," said Steve.

Other attractions included a 25-foot-long salmon sculpture dubbed "FIN, the Migrating Salmon," an attraction on loan from the North Olympic Salmon Coalition in Port Hadlock.

A sand box of white wheat donated by Almota Elevator Co. and a face painting booth were popular among children, Highfield noted.

Musician Eric E. entertained visitors, who were treated to a free barbecue meal and a live essay reading by second-grade student Alice Oar of Pullman.

Looking forward, those unable to attend this year's festival still have much to look forward to according to Highfield: "We're going to keep bringing back the favorites and expanding the festival in little ways."

Author Bio

Reid Thompson is an intern reporter at the Whitman County Gazette. Reid is enrolled at Syracuse University, where he studies journalism and international relations.

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