Working on tradition - free car wash

By STEVE KADEL Western News Reporter

Students from Central School gave Libby-area residents a thank-you on Friday by offering free car washes.

The tradition began five years ago while a Central School class brainstormed fund-raising ideas. One boy suggested they forget about raising money and, instead, do something to give back to the community.

Presto: the free car wash was born.

"We've been doing it every year since then," a teacher said.

Plenty of drivers accepted the invitation Friday as afternoon temperatures neared 80 degrees. They sat nearby watching as brigades of hose-carrying, soapsuds-happy kids worked quickly and efficiently.

Up to seven cars at a time lined the parking lot in various states of cleanliness.

"Water," a boy yelled. "We need water down here on this black car."

More than 30 vehicles had been washed by 2 p.m. when students entered the last hour of service.

And Katie Dedrick kept drumming up business. Standing along U.S. Highway 2, she was anything but shy about enlisting customers.

"Hey, buddy, wash your car - it's free," she yelled as a white truck passed.

If anyone was unable to hear her voice, which is doubtful, they absolutely couldn't miss the huge sign she held.

Dedrick laughed about her bold approach later.

"I was saying, 'Hey, your vehicle is so filthy. Come and get it cleaned for free.'"

The students worked hard to get motorists back on the road as fast as possible. Still, it was a warm day and there was plenty of water available.

Suddenly Vanessa Fletcher let out a shriek. She gasped, dripping wet from head to toe.

"Did somebody do that on purpose?" Fletcher was asked.

"She asked me to," Lisa Waldron said in self-defense, the smoking hose still in her hand.

About that time, Central School student Josh Bokor walked by. He was taking a break from a class inside the building.

He took one look at the scene, shook his head and muttered, "Pure chaos."

The students were so steadfast in their commitment to the "free" in free car wash that they turned down tips. If a driver insisted, the money was accepted but turned over to the Libby Food Pantry.

"It's just a civic thing," Micah Glover said while scrubbing a Toyota truck. "It's something to do - a way to get out in the sun."