Around Town: Oct. 2nd, 2024

By: Ernie Wren

Welcome to October, fall weather, Halloween season, and of course, everything pumpkin spice! But the best of fall in my book is Homecoming! Each year the homecoming royalty raises money for a worthy cause.

“The Southern Boone High School homecoming court senior royalty is raising money for sophomore Layne Johnson. Layne Johnson, a resilient sophomore at Southern Boone High School, is facing an unexpected journey of recovery. After a dance performance injury led to the discovery of a benign tumor, Layne underwent surgery and is now overcoming multiple post-operative complications. Despite temporary setbacks and extended time at the hospital, Layne’s determination inspires hope as he undergoes treatment and testing to manage severe stomach pain. Each couple has a GoFundMe page to donate money, and the winner of the fundraising competition will be recognized during the halftime of the October 4th football game.” (SB Schools FB page)

GoFundMe Links: 

Cami and Parker: https://gofund.me/49f9773f 

Anna and Aiden: https://gofund.me/53fcd52c

Taylor and Jace: https://gofund.me/aacb4d8e

Zoey and Brayden:https://gofund.me/f557f937

Speaking of royalty, this year we will have a new Hartsburg Pumpkin Festival Queen! This year the festival royalty is Queen Dotty Manns, who is well known for her dedication to Hartsburg. From the Pumpkin Festival Facebook page: “Annually, a king or queen is chosen for their dedication to Hartsburg’s betterment. The committee honors them with a crowning ceremony, followed by their role as Grand Marshal. They receive a token of appreciation, including a shirt, cap, or sash.” The Pumpkin Festival will be held on Saturday the 12th of October, and Sunday the 13th this year.

The annual Ashland Optimist Club Spooktacular is on for October 31, 2024, Halloween night, 5-7 p.m. We hope kids and families will plan to join us, as well as businesses, organizations and others who would like to host a trunk or table! We would love to have you and/or your organization participate again this year. This event is FREE and open to the public You can find links on Facebook.

Reminder: The “Ham & Beans” dinner will be hosted on Saturday, October 19th, at the American Legion Hall from 11am to 2pm. The cost is $8 per person for slaw, cornbread, dessert, and drinks with your ham & beans.

Pumpkin Trivia: The word “pumpkin” showed up for the first time in the fairy tale Cinderella. Prior to that, they were referred to as “gros melons.” The top five pumpkin producing states in order: Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and California. Morton, IL is the “Pumpkin Capital” of the world. And finally, pumpkins are technically fruits, with every part being edible.