Past Tense: Aug. 23, 2012

65 years ago – 1947
August rainfall was already 3.72 inches. Average for the whole month in recent years had been running 1.23 inches.

• • •

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.

60 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.

55 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.

50 years ago – 1962
A total of $105,363 in new construction was recorded by County Building Inspector Raleigh Bell.

• • •

More than 150 people enjoyed the Garden Club’s flower show at Tahquitz Lake Golf Club.

45 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.

40 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.

35 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 – 1982
The Rev. Bruce Morlan, a former Idyllwild resident, was selected the new minister at the Idyllwild Community Presbyterian Church.

25 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 – 1992
The lights went out all accross the Hill on three conseutive afternoons due to severe thunderstorms.

15 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 – 2002
The Hemet Unified School District board hired Philip Pendley as the new district superintendent.

5 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.”

1 year ago – 2011
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department reported the rescue of two climbers stranded on Tahquitz. The climbers, newlyweds from the San Diego area, used a cell phone to reach authorities.