Past Tense: August 24, 2017

70 years ago – 1947 

Lightning struck more than 80 times in this section of the national forest during an August thunderstorm. Only five of the strikes, however, turned into fires. Because of the dampness, all fires were easily contained.

65 years ago – 1952

The Rev. and Mrs. Dilworth, back from 12 years in Tanganyika (now part of the United Republic of Tanzania), showed slides and told of their experiences.

60 years ago – 1957

Eric Nicolet reviewed the summer children’s program. He said the average daily attendance was 23, with 200 total children participating during the summer. The program was part of the Hemet District Recreation Program, with local clubs helping with funds.

55 years ago – 1962

A total of $105,363 in new construction was recorded by County Building Inspector Raleigh Bell.

50 years ago – 1967

Home on leave after 12 months of combat in Vietnam, Staff Sgt. Gary Dykes was pleased with Idyllwild’s climate, startled by mini-skirts and a little dismayed by the long hairstyles worn by boys in town.

45 years ago – 1972 

“Cut my salary,” requested new Fire Chief Bud Hunt, who wanted $100 a month lopped off his salary and distributed to his platoon leaders.

40 years ago – 1977 

Betty Maxwell, former co-publisher of the Town Crier, passed away. A memorial service was held at Town Hall park and a tree was planted there in her honor.

30 years ago – 1987 

A standby fee of $30 per unit, down $5 from the previous year, was adopted to supplement the Idyllwild Fire Protection District’s 1987-88 budget.

20 years ago – 1997 

Sugar Loaf Cafe reopened after a struggle of remodeling. The new owners were proud to open a new face and soul.

10 years ago – 2007 

Three Chamber of Commerce officers — President Bill Triplett, 2nd Vice President Louis Bacher and Treasurer Hubert Halkin — unexpectedly resigned. Steve Liebzeit, director, expressed the initial and immediate reaction. “I’m stunned,” he proclaimed. “I’m very pleased with what you’ve done since taking office. Thanks! I don’t know how we’ll fill the void and continue down the path.”

5 years ago – 2012 

Thieves stole more than 400 pounds of copper fixtures from KATY’s (Temecula 101.3) antenna at Inspiration Point in Idyllwild.

1 year ago – 2016 

Idyllwild Summer Concert Series ended its annual eight-concert series with a crowd favorite, Lisa Haley and the Zydekats.