Thanks to everyone who helped make NIBROC great

Shew, what a weekend it was!

When last week’s edition was hitting shelves, I was working on getting the News Journal booth set up in downtown Corbin for the 2022 NIBROC Festival. Some scattered rain made things a little wet, but I was happy that it eventually cleared up enough so that my kids could ride a bunch of rides at the carnival later that evening.

A big highlight of last Wednesday was the notification that I received informing me that a photo I had submitted to this year’s Appalachian Photographic Society photography contest had been selected for the Dr. Thomas Barnes Award for capturing nature in its most unique perspective. I was awarded a plaque by the APS, which I will proudly display along with the photo, an up-close image of a cicada emerging from the molting process.

There were so many amazing photos submitted to this year’s APS contest, I am truly honored that mine was selected for an award.

Thursday got off to a soggy start, and I was feeling a little frustrated, as the materials at our booth kept getting wet, but after a couple of hours the skies cleared up and we were treated to a very pleasant evening. I was not able to see this year’s parade myself, but I heard it from where I was sitting on Main Street. It sounds like everyone had a great time.

Friday’s weather was near-perfect, with the only issue being a little bit of wind that had me chasing stray papers and magazines on a few occasions after they were blown into the street. The temperatures were very comfortable, though, which made it a perfect night for festival goers to come down and enjoy all of the sights and sounds.

The crowd on hand for Friday night’s musical acts was lively. Rhythm City Groove got the party started, and the Tom Petty tribute band, the Wildflowers, had everyone rocking until late in the evening. I should mention that Paint Creek and Gravel Switch did a wonderful job kicking everything off the previous night, but Friday’s atmosphere was just a little different. The weekend had officially arrived at that point, after all, and many folks didn’t have to worry about getting up early for work the next morning. That always tends to amplify the fun factor just a bit…

Saturday felt a little more like summer, but the winds were calm and the rain stayed away, so plenty of folks showed up for the final day of festivities. Before the day ended I was excited to visit the neighboring booth, The Great Escape of Corbin, and try out their mobile escape room with my wife and son. We figured out the last riddle right as time expired, and although we had to ask for a few hints along the way, I thought we did pretty well. I think escape rooms are a ton of fun, and I would definitely suggest that everyone give Great Escape a look. They’re located on Master Street, and they have three different rooms available. The mobile version at NIBROC had players searching for clues that would allow them to open a series of pirate chests, gaining access to the treasures inside.

The main musical acts took the stage Saturday night, and they did not disappoint. County Wide is always a fan favorite, and have rocked NIBROC several times in the past. They always do a great job, however, and this year was no exception.

The Frontmen closed out this year’s festival in front of a large crowd who were treated to a great set courtesy of three of country music’s top names – Richie McDonald of Lonestar, Larry Stewart of Restless Heart and Tim Rushlow of Little Texas. You could tell these guys were real pros, as they had a veteran presence that really shined through in their performance.

I had a great time meeting people at our booth Thursday, Friday and Saturday, getting people signed up to receive our paper, and entering over 80 in our drawing for $100. Many simply stopped to say hello, which I also enjoyed. A big part of events like NIBROC is getting the chance to connect with people in the community. Some faces I knew already, but many I did not. Whether we are old acquaintances or new friends, thank you all for coming by. It was very much appreciated.

Kudos to everyone who played a role in presenting the 70th Annual NIBROC Festival. It was definitely one to remember, and I am already looking forward to what 2023 will have to offer!