The Redneck Weekend was a roaring hit with everybody who attended – and they came in droves!
At 11 a.m. on Aug. 8, children, grown-ups and families started arriving at the Legion Park to partake in the Fifth Annual Redneck Olympics, organized by Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 261-Forest Grove volunteers.
A lot of behind-the-scenes preparations combined with on-the-spot encouragement resulted in loads of fun and laughter, and many people rushing off to pick up a prize after winning a game. There was plenty of food available, including delicious hamburgers, hotdogs, to cooked corn and cotton candy.
T-shirts and pins were also on sale, and Jill Hardcastle painted many faces.
That night, Riding Shotgun played up at the community hall, which had been decorated to a T by the Forest Grove & District Recreation Society members and friends. Many people turned up in "fancy dress" and danced the night away and had a great time.
The inaugural Redneck Barn Dance turned out to be a thundering success, with the Burger Sisters making sure nobody went hungry by offering tasty finger food.
Sunday’s Third Annual Regatta saw seven boats built during the morning hours, and after a scrumptious lunch put together by the Forest Grove ’94 Lions and helpers, the race was underway.
The crews had to paddle around the pontoon boat on Ruth Lake, from which they were doused with water and this year the Forest Grove Volunteer Fire Department pumper truck #21 joined in the spraying fun from the shore.
The team Emerald Off Spring rang the bell first, followed by Daisy Mazes, with Black Pearl coming in third.
The Best Team Spirit award went to the Water Rats, while Black Pearl garnered Best Costume, and Best Boat went to White Trash, who, after a valiant effort and with loads of encouragement, made it back in seventh position.
It was a busy weekend, during which locals and visitors alike joined in the fun, excitement and laughter.
Doris E Rufli is the Forest Grove correspondent.