The all-you-can-eat Ground Hog Feed features home ground, seasoned sausage at the Clearwater I00F Hall.
For many years, lodge members butchered whole hogs for the event, until the health department insisted the meat be inspected.
They started purchasing meat and grinding and seasoning it themselves. This year they’ll process 2,000 pounds, much already presold.
The event is the sole fundraiser for the lodge, a 107-year-old building that serves as a public space for elections, reunions and birthday and funeral dinners. Clearwater is one street with a smattering of homes. Most of those who use the lodge are scattered around the surrounding Idaho hinterlands. Last year 408 people ate in support.
“We’re just hoping for good weather and to survive another year,” says Patsy Hunter of Stites, who is a member of the lodge, home to the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs.
Like many fraternal organizations across the country, membership is dwindling. “We really depend on volunteers,” she says.
Besides sausage, hot cakes, eggs and beverages will be served from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $7 for adults and $4 for children. A homemade quilt by Mary Bishop will be raffled. Tickets are available at the door.
Clearwater is along Highway 13 between Grangeville and Kooskia.
