More than two thousand folks gathered in Caspar last weekend for the second annual Caspar World Folk Festival. "It was a great Festival," Caspar Community president Judy Tarbell reported enthusiastically. "Lots of coastal residents and old friends from near and far, wonderfully diverse music, and an overall atmosphere of tolerance and fun prevailed."

"We hold this Festival to delight local residents," organizer Michael Potts agreed. "This year there were lots of families, lots of children. The music was wonderful, and it was a thrill to see gifted neighbors like Gene Parsons and Lenny Laks on stage."

"We got slammed at the food booth, but we kept up," Festival manager Dalen Anderson said. "At the last minute, one of our important food partners pulled out, but with the help of Harvest Market and Georgia Lane, we were able stay ahead of the crowds ...barely." Anderson was particularly pleased that the bushels of disposable plates and utensils were, for the first time, completely compostable. "We cut our trash production by 80% this year, and next year our cole slaw will be fertilized by this year's leftovers. We hope other coastal groups will follow our lead."

"This is primarily a fun-raiser," Tarbell explained, "but early results look like we made a little money toward our solar roof and for carrying Caspar's hundred year planning process forward. We are truly grateful to the folks from up and down the coast that helped us make this such a great event. We'll see you next year!"

Next year's Caspar World Folk Festival will be held on August 6th and 7th, 2005. The latest information on the Festival is always available at CasparFest.org .

submitted to Mendocino Beacon / FB Advocate 9 August 2004