Changes

The river is low this year. Last year at Riverfest, the Dragon boat races were postponed several times due to water levels being too high. We finally held the races at the very end of August. All of that prompted some discussion about a contingency plan, because the river is unpredictable.

This year, the races will not be held during Riverfest, but will instead take place in July (23&24). That kinda works for me, as someone who was charged with photographing Riverfest (voluntarily!), especially now that I am a tad slower. On a good day, in good health, it was hard to get everything because (believe it or not, my children) I can only be in one place at a time. And running up and down that boat launch gets old real quick when it's in the 80s!

Kayaks from years past.

Riverfest has a few other changes this year, too! The entire event will be held in Nesbitt Park, instead of kicking off at the River Common on Friday night. Also Friday night, a food truck rally will be held, benefiting the Prescription Assistance Fund at Medical Oncology Associates (YAY!). There had been talk of the National Park Service participating in celebration of its 100th anniversary , but I missed the last few meetings and don't know where that stands. It'll be a surprise! As always, there are sojourns on the river, live music Friday night and lots of educational displays in the big tent on Saturday.

I think this will be my last Riverfest. Riverfront Parks Committee is a great group of people working for a great cause, but I am getting selfish with my time.