Time was not available to post all of the SongWriter contestants and our hardworking volunteers at the time of the event, so here is more information. With apologies to volunteer and board member Bill Basta who escaped us to direct traffic and eluded our camera, and to others we were not able to include. We appreciate you all.
The following are the winners once again: Ellen Bukstel, Mike Manetz and Alivia Hunter. These are followed by Jane Fallon, Patrick Ivey, Nicolette Matt, Luis Ortiz, Lisa Scarborough and Sweet William Ennis. All the songs were great and we enjoyed them all.

The rest of the contestants:






And here are some of our volunteers and supporters, without whom this event would not have taken place.
Random order:

Colette Jacono, plant hike leader

Doug Jipson, without whom the music would not get recorded

Linda Heyl, ex-board member and Kristina Young, OSFR supporter

Ex President Mike Roth with long-time supporter Hilda Gilchrist
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Officer and board member Terry Phelan

In background supporter MaryAnn Smith and Joanne Trembly far right

Kirk Moss, hard worker

Volunteer Marian Moss, President Kristin Rubin and board member Dani Lee

Founder of RiverFest Merrillee Malwitz-Jipson describes mission of OSFR

Board member Cindy Roth, Mike Roth and Kristin Rubin erect water fountain

Kristin Rubin with board member Patti Street

RiverFest co-coordinators Sanna Saare and Rhonda Long

Volunteer Mermaid Danielle Shmalberg ready to pose for pictures

Volunteer Andy Phelan (back turned) and daughter Jessica with 50/50 draw

Long-time advocate/volunteer Walter Bickmeyer and Gracie
Samples of the art work donated for the silent auction:

Laura Dailey “Blue Hole” acrylic Merrillee Malwitz-Jipson “Yemaya Protecting
Mermaid Springs” painting

John Moran “Wonder in the Dark” photo Margaret Tolbert “Springs Welling Up” print

Before and after contest entertainment “In the Moment” with Ray Carson (left center) and front man Chris Newman (center)

On the grounds of Rum 138 you will see manifestations of the philosophy and creed of those who battle to protect the natural treasures of Florida from those who would destroy them.
Comments by OSFR historian Jim Tatum.
jim.tatum@oursantaferiver.org
– A river is like a life: once taken,
it cannot be brought back © Jim Tatum

Great recap on RiverFest 2022. Thanks to whomever wrote it.