Celebration Days Boasts New Events

WAITSBURG - Waitsburg Celebration Days will include several new events this year including an ATV Poker Run, an ATV Rodeo, a Lawnmower Rodeo, and a Touchet Valley Brew Hop.

The Dead Man's Hand Poker Run is a family friendly event, though only those over 18 may participate in the "poker" part of the run. Participants will ride in Saturday morning's Celebration Days parade before heading to the fairgrounds where they will begin the 35-mile Jasper Mountain run. Riders will make a loop through Wilson Hollow, Whiskey Creek, Payne Hollow down the North Coppei before returning the Waitsburg fairgrounds.

"Poker" participants will pick up six cards at stops along the route - with the opportunity to earn a seventh bonus card by riding through the mud pit at the fairgrounds. First, second and third place cash prizes will be awarded for the best five cards out of seven. A $50 bounty will be awarded to anyone holding a Dead Man's Hand; aces over 8's, all black. The cost of one hand is $10, but riders may purchase a second hand for an additional $10.

Riders will meet at Rankin Park (north of the Main Street Bridge) at 9 a.m. for check-in. Participants are encouraged to pre-register and must sign a waiver (both will be available at check in). Riders must have a valid driver's license. Stop in at Blue Crystal

Screen Printing (123 Preston Avenue, Waitsburg) or email Karen Huwe at bluecrystal@gotvc.net to save time on event day by preregistering.

Riders are anticipated to begin returning at 1 p.m. and the winners will be announced at 3 p.m. In the meantime, those waiting will be able to take to take part in ATV games and an ATV rodeo. (Those with ATVs who did not participate in the run are welcome to join in the rodeo/games.) The Celebration Days Committee is hoping to organize an ATV Training Course for younger folks if a trainer can be found.

Another new event, taking place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday is the Touchet Valley Brew Hop. Five local brewery's will be sharing their wares. "Hoppers"maybuya3oz. glass to taste each submission. Purchase of a tasting glass includes a poker chip, which tasters will use to place their vote for People's Choice Award. A stage will be set up for performers to share music or other talents during this time.

A "Tear up the Turf" Lawn Mower Rodeo is slated for Sunday, May 18, also at the fairgrounds. Special prizes will go to the "ugliest looking" and "best looking" mower. Again, registration and a waiver is required. All information can be found by visiting the Events tab at cityofwaitsburg.com and looking for Waitsburg Celebration Days.

The Celebration Days Committee meets Mondays at 5 p.m. at the Waitsburg Business Center at 111 Preston Avenue. Anyone interested in volunteering in any capacity or providing input or suggestions is encouraged to attend. Clubs, businesses or community members who would like to have booths at the fairgrounds are encouraged to do so. Contact Karen Huwe at bluecrystal@gotvc.net for more information.