Seven great songs about the Santa Fe River were presented to the audience at Rum 138 at RiverFest 18 on a beautiful March day southwest of Fort White, Columbia County, Florida. The music just gets better every year, and our sponsors list longer and longer. Thanks to all of them, without which we would have no RiverFest. And of course a huge thanks to our contestants, all of whom were indeed winners. But the judges said the money should go to young Cliff Dorsey for his “Santa Fe Song,” beautifully rendered.
Past OSFR President Pam Smith made RiverFest happen
While we are talking about “thanks,” many go to all the volunteers, many of whom are pictured here, and apologies for those who escaped the camera. This year, as those who follow our web site know, we filled the month of March with RiverFest activities, all geared toward the Santa Fe. Engineered by Sharon Yeago with final execution by Pam Smith, the complicated and many-faceted project was brought to fruition with help from all. Especial thanks to Sharon and Pam.
Key people OSFR here, Cindy Noel, Treasurer, Merrillee Malwitz-Jipson, co-founding president and now Advisor, Marihelen Wheeler, Advisor and Alachua County Commission candidate, Mike Roth, President of OSFR.
Doug Jipson, owner-operator of our sponsor Digitel Video and also co-owner of our sponsor Rum 138, makes it possible for OSFR to have its headquarters on his property. Doug gives constantly and much to not only OSFR but also to the community, with art showings, music and film events. Here he is filming the on-goings, but he also wields a wicked burger turner on the griddle in the Jahfew cafe.
Ken Cornell, unopposed candidate for the Alachua County Commission, Jane Blais, OSFR board member, Merrillee one more time,and Patty Street, OSFR board member and secretary.
Our great contestants
John Sterpe Cindy Bear
Cassie Keenum Darya Mallard
Carl Page Keith Peters
More of our exceptional volunteers (in no particular order)
Pam Smith & Rhonda Long Cathy Messersmith & Kristin Rubin
Ray Carson Toni McIntosh Martha Strawn Russ Jones
Kathy Fleming Linda Heyl Erik Wise Bill Latham
Billy Jo Benedict Dr. Kristen Merritt Walter Bickmeyer Terry Phelan
Some but not all of our many great volunteers
Five of the photos in this post are from Merrillee Malwitz-Jipson and John Minnicks.
I can’t thank you all enough! The incredible harmony – and synergy – transformed into a smooth sailing day of music and food and laughter and goodies enjoyed by everyone who attended. A great team, indeed!