Union-Bulletin

WALLA WALLA - After the success of the first Edison Big Truck Rally in 2008, PTA officials held a second rally on Saturday.

This year's fundraiser probably won't raise as much money due to fewer trucks, more rain and less children.

Edison PTA President Jennifer Northam said there were about 30 city, county, college and private trucks, bulldozers, fire engines, cranes and other industrial and emergency rigs, which the children enjoyed climbing in and on. In 2008, the event had about 50 rigs.

"A lot of them told us their insurance wouldn't cover it, and this was a busy (Spring Release) weekend," Northam said.

Missing at the second Edison Big Truck Rally was the Walla Walla County Sheriff's armored vehicle, due to a shortage of staff, and the Walla Walla Army Reserve's tank, which was being repaired, Northam said.

The sporadic rain also kept the numbers of children lower than in 2008. But this year the city included a trolley bus, which was turned into a reading room, and was packed during the downpours.

Another obstacle this year was the new grass, which couldn't handle the excess weight of the behemoth vehicles because of the tender new roots, Northam said.

All in all, the kids who did show up didn't seem to mind the fewer trucks or the colder weather.

"Our goal is to be a family alternative for the Spring Release weekend," Northam added.