PORT HADLOCK — Sun, heat, dust, smoke and the ever-present lawn mowers made Hadlock Days memorable as attendees celebrated the town’s personality and spirit.
“This is an excellent indication of how the community at large can work together,” said Jefferson County Sheriff Tony Hernandez. “It’s an opportunity for people to meet their neighbors, and know that Port Hadlock is a place where people can feel safe.”
Herndandez said the event was a good place for area businesses to sell their wares to local residents “so we can keep our money in the community.”
About 50 vendors pushing food, services and ideas filled the area and offered a diversity of wares.
For instance, a doughnut maker was situated next door to an acupuncturist with both booths drawing healthy crowds.
Hadlock Days President Lee Ann Dahl estimated that about 1,500 people attended on Saturday, with “everyone coming all at once” during the early afternoon.
She said that some attendees were displeased to learn of the $2 admission fee, which was charged for the first time this year.
“After they settled in, they didn’t care,” Dahl said.
The age admission policies gave many attendees a reprieve, as anyone younger than 7 or older than 55 got in free.
The high temperature for the day was 73 degrees, according to www.weatherbug.com, although it seemed hotter around the racetrack.
Those who were not selling merchandise or food sought to inform or persuade the crowd.
The Snohomish tribe, which has about 2,000 members throughout the state although it does not have a reservation of its own, was one of these groups.
“We want people to know that our culture is still alive although the government is saying otherwise,” said Tribal Vice Chair Mike Schultz.
Shultz said that Hadlock Days “is a good place to get our message across.”
Hadlock Days continue today, with lawn mower races starting at 9 a.m. and a classic car/bike show taking place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For information and directions go to www.hadlockdays.com.
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or charlie.bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.