Remember When?

40 YEARS AGO • AUGUST 9, 1979

HUCKLEBERRY FESTIVAL READY TO ‘EAT’

The final calendar for the HUCKLEBERRY FESTIVAL is now ready for distribution.

On Saturday, August 11, the runners for the run-for-fun benefit will assemble at 7:15 a.m. at the junction of the old highway and Highway 200, west of the Ranger Station. Signs on the highway will direct the runners to the assembly point, where sponsor forms will be picked up.

At the end of the run, transportation will be provided back to the starting point. Also, orange juice will be available at the end of the run, and a standby ambulance will be available if needed.

The arts and crafts exhibit will be set up in the area between the Laundromat and the Standard Service Station in the shade of trees on land owned by Al and Arlene Davis. Artists are asked to bring art materials to demonstrate their art techniques along with their artwork for display. Craftspeople are asked to bring their own display tables for their crafts, as well as to give a working demonstration. They are encouraged to bring their own tables to display, and if electricity is needed for their demonstrations, they are asked to supply their own cords.

Games are being planned for grade school youngsters during both days of the festival. Bob Thomas is in charge of this activity, and will appreciate a helping hand. The location for these games will be announced at the information booth set up in front of the Stobie’s Shopping Center in Trout Creek (now The Local Store).

The barbecue dinner will begin at 5 p.m. and will last until 8 p.m. Directions for reaching the Trout Creek Improvement Grounds will be available at the information booth.

At 8 p.m. dancing under the stars will begin on the roped off section of the old highway. Music will be donated by the Plainsmen, a popular group in this area. Several articles will be auctioned off during the evening. Some of the donated items are: a wiener pig from Laurence and Lillian Molzhon; a “basket of cheer” by business establishments of Trout Creek, Thompson Falls, Noxon, Heron and Plains; a hand embroidered baby quilt from Brenda Lowery; a pick-up load of firewood from Allen and Allen; a Philippine hand-embroidered tablecloth and napkins from Don and Freida Park, a saddle from Nicole Reeves, and a bicycle from John Reeves, along with other items.

During the dancing refreshments will be available at the beer garden and hot dog and hamburger stand. Families are welcome, with children under 12 admitted free, adults $2 and couples $3.

The dance auctions and profits from the refreshment stands will be donated to the Michelle Lee benefit fund.

On Saturday at 1 p.m., a softball tournament will get underway at the school softball field, with four teams participating.

Sunday morning festivities will begin at 9 a.m. with Church Services at the Trout Creek Community Church, with Rev. Tim Hawkins presiding.

Boat owners are invited to launch their boats on Sunday afternoon, and are encouraged to decorate them to add to the color of the Festival.

Area residents are looking forward to hearing the excellent Thompson Falls Pep Band during the Sunday afternoon ice cream social.

The Huckleberry Festival has come a long way from 40 years ago.