2007 Memorial Day

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2007 Boat Parade
2007 Rhody Parade

Siuslaw Fisherman's Association

2007 Memorial Day Parade

Reedsport, Oregon - Monday, May 28

In complete contrast to the 100th Rhododendron Parade the previous weekend, it was a very sunny Memorial Day in beautiful Reedsport. Unfortunately, we had strong winds from the north along the parade route. Ninety-nine flags were installed on the Wakonda Auga to salute our veterans. The crowds along the parade route received us with enthusiasm. Everyone loves mermaids!

John Martinez and Mark Lull battle the headwind. Brenda Schumacher drives the truck. Photo by Mike Fitzgerald

John Martinez and Mark Lull battle the headwind Photo by Jacki Fitzgerald

Longtime Florence fisherman Popeye is at the wheel of his 1908 double-ender fishing boat the Wakonda Auga with Olive and Sweetpea assisting. As all of you already know, Popeye named his boat after Ken Kesey’s fictionalized version of the Siuslaw River from Kesey’s book, Sometimes a Great Notion.

Ralph "Bud" Saulsgiver waves from the aft deck Photo by Mike Fitzgerald

Ralph "Bud" Saulsgiver waves from the aft deck Photo by Jacki Fitzgerald

On the back deck, we find our lucky fisherman (Bud Saulsgiver) standing proudly next to his once in a lifetime catch – a mermaid (Melissa House). For those of you who are not familiar with international fishing regulations, we must point out that mermaid fishing is strongly regulated around the globe due to the rarity of these beautiful sea creatures. Fishermen are limited to taking one mermaid per lifetime, and then only on a catch and release basis. Because mermaids can live out of water for some time, and because so few people ever get to see a real mermaid, fishermen are allowed to show off their catch in their local community before releasing the mermaid. Bud said that he will be returning her to her home water after today’s parade. When asked, Bud refused to tell us when he will be departing or where he caught the mermaid. “Mermaids always draw such large crowds and I think she has had enough stress,” he said.

Melissa House as the mermaid and Ralph "Bud" Saulsgiver as the fisherman Photo by Jacki Fitzgerald

Ralph "Bud" Saulsgiver Photo by Jacki Fitzgerald Melissa House Photo by Mike Fitzgerald

The float’s slogan, Reflections of the Past Illuminate the Future, Another 100 Years of Fishing, reflects the SFA’s commitment to bringing our historic fishing history back into our community. Last week’s First Annual Siuslaw Fisherman’s Association Rhododendron Festival Boat Parade on the Siuslaw River, which had over 25 boats, revived the original tradition of a “naval parade.” Watch for it to become a new – old tradition.

Melissa House and Ralph "Bud" Saulsgiver wave from the aft deck with 99 flags flying in the wind Photo by Mike Fitzgerald

Melissa House and Ralph "Bud" Saulsgiver Photo by Mike Fitzgerald

With the recent awarding of 501 (c)(3) status by the IRS to the SFA – With a recent donation of $100,000 – And with the SFA’s award winning entry in the 100^th Rhododendron Festival Grand Floral Parade, The Siuslaw Fisherman’s Association has shown that they are here to stay and that they will achieve their goal of bringing the fishing boats back to Florence.

The Siuslaw Fisherman’s Association welcomes donations, new members and volunteers. You can help bring fishing back to Florence by calling Bud at 999-1301 or Mark at 991-0137. All donations and memberships are tax-deductible.