chance
of generally
non-threatening
weather. Within a few years,
RBD partnered up with the Yankton
Area Arts (YAA). The two are separate entities
but they work together to put on the successful event.
“Volunteers are a big part of it,” said Wuebben. Teachout
added, “We couldn’t do this without the volunteers. It wouldn’t
be possible without the wonderful help of the community and the
volunteers.” The RBD and YAA committees help recruit volunteers,
and many past RBD board members and past volunteers come back
to help. Anyone can help volunteer by contacting any of the board
members, the RBD office at (605) 665-1657 or on their website at
www.riverboatdays.com.
Though the event is held on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday,
the set-up begins on Monday for the committee members. Board
members start pulling the items needed out of storage on Monday,
with most manpower needed for set-up from Wednesday morning
to Friday night. The committee members have a great system in the
organization and layout of getting the tents set up each year. I was
amazed to hear the complexity in scheduling the vendors coming in
and out of the park during set-up and take-down. Everyone follows
a designated time to help things go more smoothly. They are often
in need of extra volunteers, though, on Sunday night and Monday to
help take down the tents.
Because it takes a lot of work to put this event on, from
volunteers to the costs of insurance, entertainment, equipment and
amenities, many people play a role in helping to make it happen.
Teamwork comes from the RBD and YAA members, generous
business and personal donations, assistance from the National
Guard, the Yankton Police Department, the City of Yankton, business
donation of equipment use, hotel and restaurant accommodations,
advertising assistance, the Yankton Photography Club, beer and pop
distributors and help from non-profit groups, just to touch on a few
involved. Teachout said, “We want to give our sincere appreciation
because it takes an entire community, public and private individuals,
to make it the success it is.” The RBD committee, in return,
contributes back to the park. The large shelter was donated by the
RBD committee, along with Wi-Fi connection. “We appreciate what
is given to us to use for the weekend so we try to give back,” she
stated.
The events held during Yankton Riverboat Days and Summer
Arts Festival have changed over its time, though some events
have reappeared like a former fashion trend. Originally, the events
had a dog show and a historical play, both of which are no longer
observed. The Captain & Belle, free family activities, live band, dance
performances, water and air shows, kiddie parade and large parade,
though larger now than in the past, have always been a part of the
weekend events. Various events came later, some staying longer
than others, including (but not all-inclusive): mud volleyball, arm
Being a Family...
means you do whatever
you can to keep them
healthy and happy.
vRIVERBOAT DAYS continued on page 15
SO DO WE. We provide
diagnosis and treatment of
common, rare, and chronic
pediatric and adult ear, nose and
throat health issues including ear
pain and infections, allergy and
sinus issues, and hearing loss.
Call today for a consultation.
605-665-0062.
David J. Abbott, M.D. Micah M. Likness, M.D. Beth J. Beeman
Board Certified
Otolaryngologist
Board Certified
Otolaryngologist
Au. D, CCC-A
Todd A. Farnham
Au. D, CCC-A
We’re H“ear” For You!
EAR, NOSE & THROAT
ASSOCIATES, P.C.
2525 Fox Run Parkway, Suite 101, Yankton
605-665-0062 • 1-866-665-0062 • www.entyankton.com
HERVOICE JULY/AUGUST 2015v11