The Dragon Boat Festival 2002 successfully met all expectations of a day of fun. With 30,000 in attendance, there was no doubt that the word is out that this event is one of Colorado's premier festivals to attend.

The morning started with the lion dance performance at the opening of the marketplace which is done for luck and prosperity of the vendors. A Tai Chi demonstration helped everyone clear their minds and focus on clarity. Led by a big 70 foot long dragon, the teams paraded around the lake. It seemed almost like a mini Olympics with varied teams displaying their colors. Although the 4A AT&T boat team was exhausted from their time track race, they still marched in the parade and waved at the very enthusiastic crowd.

The success is due to the returning teams, vendors, sponsors and people. This year's festival doubled in size with 32 teams, 4 boats, 70 vendors in the marketplace, and the best of Pan-Asian Entertainment. The event went smoothly due to the dedication and organization of well-trained volunteers. There was an outpouring of support by the community because of extensive media coverage including community luminaries as Stan Matsunaka-Colorado Senator, Tom Migaki-from the Denver Mayor's Office, Governor Bill Owens, Helen Hu-Assistant City Editor, Denver Post, and many long time community leaders. AT&T's Giselle and John Rushford's favorite Denver Bronco Cheerleader (beautiful daughter, Jennifer) signed autographed posters for people at the festival.

AT&T LNS, AT&T Broadband, and 4A AT&T Mountain States once again sponsored the event. Bob Willis, VP of Public Relations and Government Relations, welcomed everyone in the opening ceremonies. Our very own, Courtney Lewis, LNS VP presented the AT&T Cup to Z' Zerpents (Department of Public Safety - Denver Fire and Police). Although the 4A AT&T Team, which consisted of 22 employees from Broadband and LNS, did not make the finals, most of the team members promised to return next year. As in any lessons learned, the Team will return practiced and ready.

As Co-emcee for the event, Mary Monzon had the opportunity work with all the local television reporters from CBS, NBC, ABC and Fox, and shook hands with Governor Bill Owens. It was a long day, and at times it was hot, but many stayed till the very end of the event. Colorado has proven for the second year that diversity in the Asian Community can come together as one to create a venue to celebrate and promote all cultures.

-- G. Rushford and M. Monzon, Mountain States Chapter

[The Colorado Dragon Boat Festival's official web site is www.coloradodragonboat.org.]