Eastport marks Independence Day with parade
Photo by TANNA YEOUMANS Hall Mountain Auxiliary ladies and the voulenteer firefighters gathered for a photo during the potluck.
Photo by TANNA YEOUMANS Community members came together after the Eastport Parade for food and friends.
Photo by TANNA YEOUMANS Austen Jones carried the 4-H flag on his horse Ginger.
Photo by TANNA YEOUMANS Julia and Evellyhn Stuber greeted parade goers as they passed by representing the horse 4-H group.
Photo by TANNA YEOUMANS The highway was lined with people on both sides during Eastport’s Fourth of July Parade. For more photos from the event, see www.bonnersferryherald.com.
EASTPORT — On the Fourth of July, 2018, Boundary County residents came together in celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence 242 years ago, which signified the birth of the newly independent country, the United States of America.
Semi trucks and other traffic traveling across the U.S. and Canadian border through Eastport were stopped as parade participants traveled the highway. From motorcycles, to old cars, and vehicle-pulled floats, to horses and emergency vehicles, the streets were lined with spectators cheering on the various participating groups.
“It was really cool to see all the kids in the parade and everyone having such a great time,” said Hall Mountain Auxiliary member Kary Ael, who was also a spectator at the parade.
The Auxiliary members assist in purchasing items that help the first responders perform their jobs to the best of their abilities.
“We have purchased Helicopter Landing light kits, Ice Water rescue suits, five medical EMT Jump Bags, and we are in the process of purchasing another defibrillator,” said Justine Williams, president of the HMVFA Ladies Auxiliary, about their recent contributions.
Following the parade, the Hall Mountain Volunteer Fire District hosted its annual community potluck, which had community members and supporters lined up for food.
The Hall Mountain Volunteer Firefighter Association Ladies Auxiliary provided the hamburgers, hot dogs, and drinks for the event, and encouraged attendees to bring a potluck dish to share. They continue to hold a fundraising raffle for a Henry .44 Mag Rifle with Lead Sled at a value of$1,100, a $500 Super 1 shopping spree, $50 Kootenai River Casino dinner certificates and a $100 KRI casino/spa certificate with a combined value of $650.
Feist Creek, Wildhorse Mercantile, and Big Daddy’s in Porthill also support the department by selling tickets, as well as Mountain West Bank and Super 1 Foods lending a supporting hand in assisting with the fundraising for the fire department.
“We are a non-profit and help our District Firefighters in any way. The Chief and Board of Directors suggest items are in need of buying,” said Williams.
This year marked the 15th year and this years Grand Marshall, Patricia Doherty, played a leading role in the yearly events for the Fourth of July and fundraising for the volunteer fire department. Doherty passed on the lead role about two years ago to Williams, who stepped up to the plate and brought community members together with food and friendship for this year’s Independence Day celebration.
“We have been really impressed by the quality of this volunteer fire department and the events they host such as the pancake breakfast,” said Kelly Olson.
The driveway at the Hall Mountain Fire Department was packed with people supporting their local volunteer firefighters and first responders.
“We just came out to help support the fire department and the community,” said Duane Olson.
On Sept. 29, they will hold their end of the year Appreciation Potluck and silent auction at the Fire Hall #1 on Highway 1 and Porthill Loop and announce the raffle ticket winners at that time.