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FIBArk 2026: Celebrating Salida's Signature Festival and a Special Honor for Terry Deveney

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Every June, Salida comes alive with one of the most anticipated weekends of the year: FIBArk. Short for "First in Boating the Arkansas," FIBArk began in 1949 and has grown into America's oldest and longest-running whitewater festival. What started as a river race has evolved into a community-wide celebration featuring world-class whitewater competition, live music, a parade, family activities, and thousands of visitors who come to experience the energy of Salida and the Arkansas River.

Held June 18–21, 2026, this year's festival promises another exciting weekend of river events, community traditions, and unforgettable memories. From the legendary Downriver Race and crowd-favorite Hooligan Race to live music and family-friendly festivities, FIBArk showcases the adventurous spirit that makes Salida such a special place to live and visit.

This year is especially meaningful for us at Pinon Real Estate Group and Pinon Vacation Rentals because our very own Terry Deveney has been named Commodore for FIBArk 2026. Alongside her husband Chuck, Terry will serve as one of the festival's ambassadors, helping represent the tradition, community spirit, and volunteerism that have made FIBArk a cornerstone of Salida for nearly eight decades.

Terry is well known throughout Chaffee County as a Broker Associate with Pinon Real Estate Group and as the owner of Pinon Vacation Rentals. Her dedication to our community, local businesses, and the people who call this valley home makes her a natural choice for this honor.

What makes this recognition even more special is the connection between Pinon and FIBArk leadership over the years. With Terry's selection, Pinon has now been represented by three women who have served as FIBArk Commodore—a remarkable reflection of the leadership, volunteerism, and community involvement that are deeply woven into our company's culture.

FIBArk has always been about more than whitewater. It is a celebration of community, adventure, and the people who help make Salida such an extraordinary place. We are incredibly proud to see Terry carry on that tradition and represent both our company and our community during this year's festivities.

If you're planning to be in Salida during FIBArk weekend, we encourage you to get out and enjoy the races, music, parade, and festivities. And if you see Terry, be sure to congratulate her on this well-deserved honor.

We'll see you at FIBArk!

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Listing Agent: Susan Dempsey Hughes (719) 539-8886

Hosted by Kaelen Peuser: (970) 403-9664

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