Riddle's Sawdust Jubilee

Two years ago next month, libraries across Douglas County were making attempts to reopen their doors in time for the Summer Reading Program.  We marched with our group for the Rodeo parade (here) and Jenna enjoyed herself immensely during Summer Fest when the “Friends of Myrtle Creek” set up a booth in order to raise awareness that the doors would be open again.  The team had set up two activities: knock down a paper cup pyramid or paint a rock.  Jenna believed in giving deals to those who wished to do both.  She had a real knack for recruiting people.  Those on the board were anxious to keep her on around the clock and Jenna enjoyed being there.

We’d gone back the following year to assist, but we couldn’t find a booth for Myrtle Creek.  We did find one for the Riddle Sawdust Jubilee and we volunteered to help. Jenna and I met Annie at the booth last year. Once again, Jenna helped recruit and assisted with games which Annie very much appreciated. She asked if Jenna would help out at the Sawdust Jubilee the following summer – this year – today.  Annie asked if Jenna would round up participants for a water balloon toss and a watermelon eating contest.

Riddle starts off their Jubilee with breakfast at 8:00.  We did not go that early, however.  The parade does not take place until 11:00.  Jenna and I arrived in Riddle just before 11:00.  We saw some of the parade and went in search of Annie.  I had been afraid that Jenna and I would not arrive in time due to camp, but as I collected her yesterday we were able to honor the committed time.  Though we were there for three hours, I think our pretense for one would have been sufficient.

All week it has been really cool and awesome weather – though the rain may not have been as welcome for the Jubilee. No chance of that today!  It rose back to hot again – though there have been moments of light breezes throughout the day.  I wonder if it was the wind that was interfering with my being able to get the Internet service earlier today.  Anyway, it was hot and when the watermelon contest was over I opted to go home, but Jenna stayed long enough to view some collections with the bishop’s wife (who also teaches seminary) and she brought Jenna home.

I don't know how many years the Jubilee has been going.  Annie said they used to do it on the 4th of July but because many of the volunteers had jobs in which they were required to work the next day, it became an inconvenience for many involved and so they changed it to the Saturday before the 4th.  According to NewsReview (here) the city wanted to change it in recognition of the city and not just Independence Day.  Perhaps there's a bit of truth to both.

The Jubilee ended at 6:00 – at least the concessions and demonstrations and so forth.  Tonight they will shoot off fireworks at the high school.  I will probably be in bed.