Redneck Ball returns to Trout Creek

It is time to polish up those Billy Bob teeth, display your hillbilly best and celebrate in Trout Creek — redneck style. Trout Creek Community Improvement Association (TCCIA) is hosting the 5th annual Cabin Fever Redneck Ball on this Saturday at the Lakeside Motel and Resort.

“Last year we had a record-breaking fundraising event,” said Elizabeth Stender, TCCIA chairperson, “and we are really hoping to have a new record breaker this year.” She commented that last year more than $30,000 was raised by TCCIA and every penny went right back into the community.

“We really want people to know where the money goes,” Stender commented. “We put over $8,000 in park (Trout Creek) improvements last year and over $3,000 went to community support, helping families in need, supporting students at Trout Creek School and church groups.” Stender also stated that TCCIA uses these funds to host other free-admission events throughout the year such as the Easter Eggstravaganza, Shakespeare in the Park, Haunted Park, Community Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, Family Bingo night and the Trout Creek Farmer’s Market.

The Cabin Fever Redneck Ball is the association’s largest fundraiser of the year, according to Stender, so they are not going to skimp out on entertainment or prizes. TCCIA is bringing in the talents of auctioneer Kevin Hill, who will host a “Backward Auction,” meaning you never know what you’re fully bidding on. “Things will just keep popping up as the bidding goes on,” she informed of the auction.

TCCIA is organizing a large raffle, that includes three guns as prizes, to help their cause. “Everyone could have pretty good odds at winning because we are only selling 50 tickets at $20 each,” Stender said, encouraging everyone to purchase these tickets early.

In addition to the guns, this year rednecks can try their hillbilly-luck by purchasing raffle tickets in hopes of winning “Raffle Buckets” loaded with goodies estimated at values ranging from $200 to $800. Stender commented that there will be at least 15 buckets, but she couldn’t reveal the theme identities of all the buckets, as some had to remain a “surprise.”

She did reveal that the $800-value bucket is a “Tool-Set” prize supplied by Johnson Hardware in Noxon. She also exposed that there is a “Family Fun Wagon” filled with chairs, beach items, toys and fun family items available as well as the highly-sought after “Redneck Party Wagon” filled with plenty of adult beverages.

“The show itself is worth the admission and always hilarious,” Stender said, encouraging people to come out for an evening of entertainment. “The price of admission alone will help with TCCIA fundraising.” Well-known entertainers Dave and Deb Oliver never disappoint and joining them center stage will be a comedy exhibition by local performers known as The Tammy Whynottes.

“This year we are hoping to use funds to install a new playground at Trout Creek Park, install a sprinkler system and continue much-needed park improvements,” Stender stated. “Our mission at TCCIA is to create and support projects geared towards improving and protecting the town of Trout Creek, western Sanders County, Montana and all of its community members for a safe, attractive environment for individuals and families to enjoy.”

Tickets for the Saturday, March 2 Cabin Fever Redneck Ball may be purchased at D&D Liquor or Lakeside Resort at a rate of $15 for a single or $25 for couples. A no-host happy hour is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. and showtime will start at 7 p.m. in the Lakeside Resort Convention Hall. There will also be cash prizes for the “Best Dressed Redneck.”