WAYNE – Even with the name change in 2017 for the second year of Boomerfest, formerly known as Elderfest, it was still a hit Thursday for community members and those from northeast Nebraska.
Boomerfest took place at the City Auditorium featuring a morning session of activities and information while the afternoon and into the evening made way for music and dancing.
The name was changed to Boomerfest from Elderfest, as ‘elder’ didn’t fit, according to second year committee member Hilda Pearson.
“We actually changed the name just because ‘boomer’ met a younger group of people,” said Pearson. “We wanted people to know you didn’t have to be old and moldy to come. So, anyway it’s pretty much the same other than we have a pitch tournament now in the morning.”
Two events took place on the stage in the morning from a fashion show to an exercise.
Vendors in attendance pertained to health issues for people along with those who had craft booths were in attendance.
The 10-point pitch tournament started at 10 a.m. and ran through Noon before the auditorium was decorated for two performances.
Kyla Miller is in her first year as a committee member for Boomerfest. Miller added what she was most excited about from this year’s event.
“The new Boomerfest appealing to that younger generation a little bit and some new ideas,” Miller added. “Getting that pitch tournament in this year I think will draw a different crowd as well. Getting lots of new people in.”
Once the Boomerfest attendees came back, the Burt Heithold Band performed throughout the afternoon. Then, the Salt Creek Band closed out the evening with more music.
There were a few quilts from year’s past that were also raffled off. Drawings were held throughout the evening while the bands were performing and there was also a photo booth.
A part of the Wayne State College-Service Learning project, roughly 70 WSC students split into groups throughout Boomerfest. They helped set-up, assisted with the food and were in attendance to dance among other things, Pearson mentioned.
“So, we encouraged them to sit down and have a sandwich or a donut with people,” Pearson mentioned. “Make sure they’re always watching to see if somebody needs something.”
