Port offers kids a writing contest

COLFAX – The Port of Whitman County is offering a writing contest for students from kindergarten to fifth-grade.

The writing prompt is “What do you love about Boyer Park and Marina?”

The contest is to celebrate Boyer Park's 50th anniversary.

The winner receives a two-night getaway to Boyer Park and Marina riverfront cabins and has the opportunity to read his or her essay at the Snake River Family Festival on June 18, according to port officials.

The second-place writer receives a voucher for one pedal-boat ride and two bike rentals, and the third-place writer receives a $25 gift certificate to the park restaurant and store.

The deadline is 4 p.m. on April 29. Essays can be delivered in person or mailed to the port’s Colfax office at 302 N. Mill Street, or sent via PDF to sarah@portwhitman.com.

The winner and two finalists are being announced on May 12.

Kindergarten and first-grader stories must have a minimum of 50 words and a maximum of 200 words. Second- and third-grade stories must have a minimum of 100 words and a maximum of 350 words. Fourth- and fifth-grader stories must have a minimum of 200 words and a maximum of 500 words.

Illustrations are encouraged. Writers should include their name, grade, school, and a parent or guardian's contact information on their submission.

Located on the historic Snake River 20 miles from Colfax, Boyer Park offers the only public marina in Whitman County. The 140-acre park features a sandy swimming beach, playground, paved pedestrian and bike trail, riverfront restaurant, and more.

The port maintains the park as a free day-use facility, but overnight accommodations are available through the Boyer Park KOA. They include 61 RV sites, four camping cabins, three tent sites; and a four-room motel.