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RANGELEY — The 20th annual Oquossoc Day Festival Saturday brough back the Fabulous 50s with themed events held in Oquossoc Village and on Rangeley Lake in Oquossoc Cove. The highlights of the day included a themed boat parade and a thrilling performance by the Maine Attraction Water Ski Show Team.

The boat parade featured floating 50s flashbacks. Organizer Eliza Morton said there were more entries this year than in years past. As the eight entries made their way around the cove, they entertained spectators on land and on the lake. The preferred attire for the day was poodle skirts, leather jackets, and greased back hair. There was even a guest appearance by Elvis and the “Jailhouse Rock” inmates. The “Greased Lightnin” float took first place with a choreographed dance routine.

Following the parade, spectators were captivated by the stunts and tricks performed by the Maine Attraction Water Ski Show Team. The team, based out of Sanford, won first place in the the Eastern Region Show Ski Tournament in July. Founded in 1988, its members range from young rookies to seasoned skiers. The show included a ballet line, swivel skiing, high speed jumps and flips, barefoot skiing, and a three-tier human pyramid.

Events earlier in the day included a art and antique show at Historic Rangeley’s Outdoor Heritage Museum, a classic car show, and a dog parade.

The festival was organized by Janet Koob, Eliza Morton, Chris Wargo, and original committee member Linda Sikes.

“Oquossoc Day is privately funded and we have some anonymous donors,” Koob said previously. “We don’t ask for donations from Rangeley businesses. It is just Oquossoc merchants coming together for a fun day celebrating our community.”

Dee Menear is an award-winning journalist and photographer with over a decade of experience in community news. She is the editor and staff writer for The Rangeley Highlander. She has worked for the Franklin...

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