Festival In The Pines

When I first acquired an ownership interest in Festival in the Pines nearly 15 years ago, I never thought that it would be a challenge to find non-profit organizations and service groups to help staff the two-day summer event. But now I am finding it more difficult to attract clubs that can provide the necessary number of bodies to help.

I realize that it is hard to lure enough volunteers to give up part of their summer weekend at the end of August to help both Festival in the Pines and support the mission of an organization. I also realize that the renumeration that I can afford to provide is not a substantial amount of money. But something has changed over the past few years that makes it even more challenging to find service groups that an guarantee at least 30 volunteers for the weekend.

On a related note, Festival in the Pines is still accepting applications for potential arts and crafts exhibitors. Maybe it's a sign of the economy, but the number of individuals who make their own crafts has been on the decline for the past few years. Unlike other area arts and crafts shows, Festival in the Pines only invites those who make their own products. In this day and age, it's too easy to allow people to rent booth space to re-sell items that have been purchased off the Internet.

Fortunately, despite the ongoing challenge to put on a part for about 15,000 people in Carson Park, I look forward to the 29th Annual Festival in the Pines, which takes place Aug. 27-28. I will be adding a new attraction this year in addition to providing space for at least 200 arts and crafts exhibitors, great food from area vendors and plenty of family-oriented entertainment.

But if you know of a service club or volunteer orgnization that wants to work to help its cause or if you know of someone who has artistic talent that should be shared by others, please call me by the end of the month so I can possibly include them in this year's event. You can e-mail me at: djrtbl@yahoo.com

GOPHERS,GEESE & MOLES: Thanks to those who shared their ideas how I can rid my lawn of pocket gophers. I have caught one gopher and am confident that the problem is being solved. However, I noticed the other day that the geese have been back to visit the shoreline by the pond and a mole has started to make its way through my yard.

Although I used a trap to capture the gopher, I have found a new way to rid my property of geese and moles. The nine-month-old puppy who loves the water enjoys chasing the geese to the other side of the pond. And the house cat who relishes every opportunity to hunt has brought home a few moles. No need for poison or weapons (yet), which is a good thing.