Pateros Apple Pie Jamboree hits another one out of the park

PATEROS—Despite a spell of triple-digit heat, the 77th annual Apple Jamboree—family fun since 1947—filled the three days of July 19-21 with something for everyone on land and water.

Friday, July 19, got the crowds warmed up with kids’ crafts and a movie, entertainment at Sweet River Bakery, a cornhole tournament, a sloppy Joe fundraiser, and more.

Saturday morning started with a Color Run and breakfast before the 11 a.m. parade. In the early afternoon, jet ski racers took over Lake Pateros, while live entertainment and the namesake apple pie sales kept things hopping on shore. The nightcap included a fireworks display.

More food, fundraisers, and jet ski races brought the celebration to a close on Sunday. Among the highlights:

• The 3 Rivers Corvette Club (3RCC) made its first appearance in an APJ parade this year. The Tri-Cities group supports several charities, including Meals on Wheels, the Wounded Warrior Project, Camp Patriot, Tri-Cities Food Bank, and Make-A-Wish. Over the past 13 years, the club has donated more than $1.1 million to the latter.
• The Vitalant blood donation bus was on site Friday afternoon. 
• The Grand Marshall Pateros Fire Department celebrated its 100th anniversary this year. Its sloppy Joe fundraiser for 50-year fire veteran Ray Sandy and wife, Sheryl, raised a substantial donation which the Pateros Methow Volunteer Firefighters Association matched.
• APJ funds help pay for free swimming lessons for Pateros kids at the Brewster public pool.

Mike Maltais: 360-333-8483 or michael@ward.media