By Gina Smith
May 31, 2012?

Caliente celebrated Memorial Day weekend in fine fashion.

The traditional Homecoming celebration started off Friday with softball tournaments that ran all the way through Sunday afternoon.

Despite chilly, windy weather, Saturday offered a variety of activities to choose from, including the morning parade, art shows, craft shows and softball games. New features such as a skillet toss and 5K Color Classic run were popular additions to the weekend festivities.

Sunday was filled with food, old and new friends and family visiting. Better weather graced the traditional barbeque at Rose Park.

The grand marshal for the parade this year was Jean and Jim Lucht. Jean is our county health nurse that will be retiring soon.

The Methodist Church earned 1st place for its float. The 2nd place ribbon went to the Pacific Express Band.

The Creative Artists art show winners were: Judy Raddatz, winner of the Viewer’s Choice award with ?Emergence? (middle-right photo), Theme Award winner Lana Hermanson with “Pahranagat Man” (bottom-center photo), and Melanie Elkins – both 2nd and 3rd places Viewers’ Award for “Ira” and “Ray” (“Ira” is the baby, “Ray” is the man in the bottom right photo below).

In the skillet toss, Jenna Mastin won ?the 8 to 14 age group, Christie Budreau was the 15 to 44 group winner and Bobbie Erlandsen won?45 to 90 group.

Through all the activities, attendees reflected on and expressed appreciation for all who sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy.