October 18, 2016

             The headline for this column should be that of the barn burning. This barn has a history and has been a part of the Mink Creek scene for more than 100 years. It has stood by Highway 36, an imposing structure as one travels to and from Strawberry Springs. Currently owned by Richard Free, the former owner was Delmer Keller, and Delmer's parents before him. Richard was not at home at the time, but luckily his wife, Vickie, was. Neighbors, seeing smoke rising, came and got their horses out of harm's way. The flames were reported to the Franklin County Fire Department around 3pm, Oct. 11^th, and there was quick response with multiple trucks, equipment and firefighters. The barn burned to the ground, but the other farm buildings close by escaped injury. As of this writing ( the 14th) the pile of blackened wood and hay is still smoldering, awaiting a possible rain storm to help further extinguish the heat.

            A Fall Social titled a “Cider Fest” was held at the Mink Creek Ballpark for the adults of the community. Even though it was a cold night around sixty people attended the event. "Bundle u" goes with planning outdoor activities at this time of year. A nursery was provided at the LDS Meetinghouse for those parents who had small children.

           A milk can dinner was prepared by Glade Larsen and Mike Jepsen and their ever helpful spouses. Reports are that it was delicious. There were layers of corn on the cob, red potatoes, cabbage, carrots, celery, ham and other lovely morsels of food. Rolls were part of the menu and the ladies in attendance brought various fruit desserts to share. Cider pressing was a main part of this activity and the planning committee has been collecting apples from around our village in preparation for the event. Three different ciders were produced this evening: apple of course, pear, and plum. The group enjoyed the warmth shed by a bonfire in the pit and people stayed and visited even after dark.

            The Cider Fest event is replacing two community events of past years. For several years in the past our town has had an outing on the shores of Bear Lake to celebrate the end of summer. Also, this year the Harvest Social that was combined with a trunk n' treat in the past is no longer on our calendars.

          We have snow on our mountain tops, but a friend from Bear Lake reports that they had 3 inches over there. We are still green within the community boundaries.  It has been several days of rain, rain and more rain. A rather soggy October thus far. It has helped to douse the Free barn embers. No complaints.

           There has been some frost. It is a bit patchy, hitting here, missing there. Alas, lawns are still in need of mowing.  After two dry months we are re-greening with all the wetness.