NORTH POWDER, OREGON__The Aramark Huckleberry Dessert Contest and auction, part of the North Powder Huckleberry Festival, is certain to draw a crowd again this year, with added incentive to people who enter the tight competition this July 25. Aramark, an international company that provides the food service for Eastern Oregon University in La Grande, gave the contest a boost by becoming its sponsor. As a result of their involvement, the entry that earns first place in the contest wins $100; second place wins $65; third place takes home $35. The People's Choice award goes to the dessert that earns the most in the silent auction and is worth $25.

Dessert cooks are encouraged to check their cookbooks and procure their huckleberries – the competition is going to be stiff and delicious! All entries are auctioned after competition as a fund raiser for the Huckleberry Festival. For information about the dessert contest, general information about the event or visitor information, contact Janet at Union County Tourism, 800-848-9969, visitlg@eoni.com, or go to www.visitlagrande.com.

Stumped for a good recipe? The organizing committee has published a cookbook of huckleberry recipes. The books sell for $8 (plus $3 postage if you want it mailed). It can be ordered by contacting Laura Dougherty, 503.407.0303 or gandl97867@gmail.com. Or, purchase a copy at the Union County Tourism office and Visitor Center, 102 Elm Street, downtown La Grande, 800.848.9969.

North Powder is located between La Grande and Baker City, Oregon, on Interstate 84.