Elks carnival coming up

Get ready for some summer fun; the carnival is coming to town.

For the 15th year in a row, the Minden/Douglas Elks Lodge No. 2670 hosts this special four-day event at Lampe Park. Festivities get underway on Wednesday, July 25 and wrap up on Sunday, July 29.

You'll enjoy a fun atmosphere complete with 14 rides to thrill the adventurer in you and exciting midway action to challenge your strength and skills. A variety of carnival-style foods will be available, including hot dogs, ice cream and cotton candy.

Hours of the carnival vary. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, it operates from 4 p.m. until 10 or 11 that evening. Saturday's hours are from noon to 11 p.m. and it will be open Sunday from noon until 6.

There is no charge to attend the carnival, though you do need to buy tickets if you want to enjoy the rides. Advance tickets cost $15 for a book of 30 (each ride takes between 2-3 tickets). That same book of tickets will cost $20 if purchased at the carnival.

As a special incentive, you may redeem your advance ticket books for a special wristband at the carnival's ticket booth. The wristband entitles the wearer to unlimited rides for that day (this offer is valid on Wednesday and Thursday only).

Advance tickets are available at several places throughout town: Garden and Ranch Nursery on south 395, Les Schwab Tires, Full Belly Deli, Pizza Barn and Accolades Trophies. In addition, you may contact any Lodge member to assist you with your early ticket purchase.

Proceeds from the carnival support local charities and scholarships that benefit the youth in our community.

Questions may be directed to Dave Trueblood at 782-3416.

A fond farewell

You've probably heard that our wonderful People editor, Jo Rafferty, is leaving to pursue new adventures in Oregon. Yesterday was her last day with The Record-Courier and she will be greatly missed.

Jo took over the People section in 2005, and her professional demeanor and open, easy-going personality made her a natural fit for this important position. It has been a joy to work with her. She's been my editor and she's now my friend.

Jo is always supportive, encouraging and kind, whether reviewing my column or helping me navigate my role as a mother of two boys (She's got three boys of her own).

Goodbye, Jo. I will miss your calm presence in my life. May you find great happiness and success in Oregon. They are lucky to have you!

-- Amy Roby can be reached by e-mail at RanchosRoundup@hotmail.com