Well, I'm still trying to figure out how what was once a great event could go so utterly wrong. I'm talking about the Astoria Regatta.
The first year I was in Astoria, 2005, the regatta was held on a single block of Duane Street, right by the Moose Lodge. Everything was all in one place, and the Grand Land Parade marched right through, right in front of my vendor tent, to my granddaughter's utter delight.
The atmosphere was cozy, warm and fun. Everybody and their brother turned out to schmooze and enjoy the festivities, and all it all, it was a delightful event.
There were even gillnet boat races - apparently for the last time, as I haven't even heard them mentioned, since.
The next year, us vendors were fenced in on the old Safeway tarmac, and without telling us, an entrance fee was charged to the non-event. Who's going to pay to come and shop with vendors they know they can visit for free at Sunday Market?
I think I was stupid enough to vend there once more after that.
This year, I noted there were only a very few vendors. I don't know if it's because none of us artisans and artists were asked, or none wanted to participate.
I read on some store window that the admission to Regatta Square would be $2 or a can of food for the food bank. Nope. When my son went with my granddaughter, they charged him $5 to get in - just so she could jump and slide on the inflatable bouncy things for 15 minutes. Sheesh.
OK, I understand they need to pay for the fireworks, bands, whatever. But you know what? Charging $5 to enter Regatta Square to drink over-priced beer or let your kid bounce a bit is a total deal-breaker, in my book.
And I guess I'm not the only one who feels that way. I drove by at about 8:30 p.m., and the band was playing to a few folks who were sitting there, probably wondering why the hell they paid $5 for the privilege.
Don't even get me started on the fireworks. They used to be set off from the Maritime Museum area, where everyone on the North Slope could see them. Then they moved the fireworks to the East Mooring Basin, where only a few can see and enjoy the fun. I didn't even bother to try and see them this year. It was just too damn much trouble - where to park, blah, blah. I used to be able to walk a few blocks for a good view.
And it's all a shame. The regatta used to be fun.
Click here to see Elleda's photography at the Astoria Photografpix web site
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