The Blaine County Journal News-Opinion - We've Got The County Covered

The Friends of the Pool and Park Foundation continue to work hard with their fundraising in an effort to reach their goal of refurbishing both the City of Chinook Community Pool and the Ensign Sweet Memorial Park to up to date usable standards for everyone to safely enjoy. The Foundation just completed a very successful 3rd Annual Brewfest last month adding to the total of funds raised over the past three years. On Friday, they received word that the Blaine County Commissioners had approved the creation of a new Recreation District that will allow the Foundation to pursue a significant grant moving forward further energizing the group. Saturday night, the Foundation welcomed guests to a Prime Rib Dinner at the Chinook Eagles and shared with the crowd the news of the Recreation Districts creation.

A crowd of 200 was planned for and Friends of the Pool and Park Foundation spokesperson Heather DePriest stated that they were right at that number, "The dinner was super successful. We nearly sold out of our meals, and we were really happy with the turnout!" The fundraising dinner featured Prime Rib with all the fixings and offered a delivery service as well. "We had a total of 62 silent auction items donated, all coming from various individuals in the community as well as a bunch from Havre, and the surrounding areas," said DePriest. "People really come out to support us from all over. We have received a tremendous amount of support from the local businesses as well and that is a huge boost to our efforts and for that, we are extremely grateful."

For all the folks looking to bid on a silent auction item, they certainly had plenty to choose from, "The variety of auction items was exceptional. There was everything from small baskets to an Asphalt donation" added DePriest. The sale progressed throughout the evening with every item garnering a great price. "Overall, I would say the Silent Auction exceeded expectations so that was really wonderful to see," commented DePriest afterwards.

The crowd was energized by the announcement of the Blaine County Commissioners creating the Recreation District, "We got a round of applause when we announced that it was approved and created. People were pretty excited about the district and excited to hear that we were moving forward and gaining traction with everything we're trying to accomplish," said DePriest. The fundraiser may have also benefited a bit from Mother Nature, "The rain was very welcome. We are certainly in need of moisture, and it seemed to help bring people out and bolstered their spirits."

The creation of the new Recreation District is certainly a huge boost to the Foundations efforts but will require a special election, "There will be a special election with a mail in ballot in January that is being paid for by the Friends of the Pool and Park Foundation. We plan on visiting with community members and holding informational meetings with folks to help with clear understanding of our plans, so they are correctly informed."

The Friends of the Pool and Park Foundation announced later that a very special fundraising effort will occur next month during the Annual Parade of Lights and Christmas Stroll, "We have brought 'Jeans Bakery' temporarily out of retirement for one night only. Jean Kokkelar will be serving her famous Cheeseburger Soup with Bread Bowls and other baked goods, during the Parade of Lights," concluded DePriest.