July 2004 - A Whole Spectrum of Fun!

A rainbow of activities and fun awaits every Hatter each June and this year will be no exception. Spectrum provides an opportunity to meet new people and see new faces, say hello to old friends, and check out interesting on-goings. We have the opportunity to climb through tanks, sample curious and unfamiliar foods and see the must see entertainment, be it sports, music, or performance. There is something for everyone and each year there are new surprises that give you something to look forward to year after year.

Spectrum began in 1990 and has never looked back or slowed down. The first "Spectrum, A Sunshine Celebration" was a huge success, despite the lack of sun. Its "title was chosen to reflect the full spectrum of activities to occur at the festival and to highlight the wonderful climate that is enjoyed by this community," according to Leigh Smythe in a report written during her time as chairman of the first Spectrum steering committee.

Many might remember this first Spectrum festival. I remember Riverside Park filled with tents and people and the parking lot across from it magically transformed into a beach for volleyball. The downtown area became animated in a way rarely seen. A Hot Air Balloon Race graced the skies. Literacy Chautauqua filled various venues with story telling and literacy readings. Buskers and street performers were spread throughout the area. Artists displayed their talents. Sculptors carved ice. The children's festival made the college and Cultural Centre a fun place to be. Children were in heaven and the adults were smiling.

Today's Spectrum is now solely located in Kin Coulee park, but it's purpose and liveliness remains constant. Last year Spectrum hosted approximately 35,000 attendants. Heather Bach, Spectrum's current chairman, notes that Spectrum's reputation has grown so much so that individuals, groups and organizations are coming to them to become involved.

New this year will be an extreme style motorcross demonstration on Saturday that will be located near the baseball diamond. Some features performing at the band shell are Karaoke in the Coulee with Mike Steiner (Mike's Meats) Friday night from 8-10pm, Drew Darley and Friends Friday at 6:30pm and Saturday at noon, HOJA Saturday night from 8-10pm, and Swass (the young Porter family band) Sunday at 3pm. And Saturday night at the second stage will see the fourth Battle of the Bands. Other events will include beach volleyball, 3 on 3 basketball, Fun Run, face painting, hay rides, army reserves, bungee jump, reptiles, Kiddeland Midway, Sunshine Market, Mountain Bike Challenge, Art in the Park, race cars, and much more!

Spectrum will run Friday, June 4 from 3-10pm, Saturday, June 5 from 10-10pm and Sunday, June 6 from 10-5pm. See you there! Questions for me? Please e-mail BeKean@telusplanet.net