Beech Tree News Network

Despite a dreary weather forecast, the 2013 Green River Catfish Festival got underway on Wednesday, July 3, at the Charles Black City Park in Morgantown.  Opening ceremonies were held at 7:30 p.m. along with carnival rides and several vendors open for business.

Cassia Lodge #272 F&AM was selling its traditional catfish, Morgantown Community Church was selling pork burgers, and various other food vendors, including barbecue, pizza, lemonade, and pizza were all featured on the midway.  

Chamber President James Runion and Morgantown Mayor Linda Keown welcomed those in attendance at opening ceremonies, which also featured the drawing of the envelopes for the annual $10,000 fishing tournament.  2012 Green River Catfish Festival pageant winners Raven Brooks, Katie West, and Conley Moore were present to assist with the drawing of envelopes and opening ceremonies.

Runion also reconized longtime Festival Chairperson Randell Gaseky and new Chamber Executive Robin Schroeder for their work on the 2013 Catfish Festival. 

Morgantown Mayor Linda Keown gave the official welome in kicking off the 2013 Catfish Festival.  

"I'm so glad that this many have gotten here tonight.  I hope everyone has a good time.  While we're here I want us to really think about our 33rd Catfish Festival and the fact that our country is over 200 years old and the freedoms that we have.  When we look at the flag flying in the wind and what it really stands for … the liberty and the freedoms that we have that others don't have.  We fought for it then and we'll fight for it now," said Keown.  "When I think about the Fourth of July, I think about our forefathers and boys overseas and women today … and I appreciate the Red, White, and Blue and what those colors stand for.  We're proud of our country and our community … and this is a place where family and friends all get together to celebrate the freedoms that we have.  Over these next few days let's all have a good time and enjoy this festival and yes, we will have another one next year.  It might not be just like this one but we will have one."

Mayor Keown also thanked Chamber volunteers, city maintenance, the jail crew, police, fireman, and EMS for their work in organizing the Festival.  

The Green River Catfish Festival fireworks were cancelled on Thursday, July 4, due to rainy weather but activites will resume on Friday, July 5, as scheduled.