Danica Stagon did not check the weather report or gauge wind resistance before coming to Plum Creek Park on the last day of September.
She nevertheless carefully navigated her way past hundreds of people, police, ponies and a plethora of hay bales to pick the perfect pumpkin.
Danica was accompanied by her father, Jeff Stagon, and other family members. They were among the many who celebrated the season in the park across from the old borough building.
There were pony rides, pumpkin painting and various children’s games. Plum police provided rides on the department’s newest golf cart.
Event coordinator Mona Costanza said the layout was similar to previous festivals. Vendor Village was expanded to welcome more businesses, including pottery makers, bakers and juicers.
Participating sellers included Tom’s Candy, Pizza Knapp Kins, Plum Run Winery, Pappy’s Gourmet Popcorn, Strada Italian Street Food and Golden Joe Juice Co.
The Plum Rotary sold hot dogs and drinks.
A familiar face at the festival was there in spirit. Former borough Manager Michael Thomas made his home behind the grill at many Plum functions, making sandwiches and searing sausage to perfection.
He was one of six people killed in a home explosion in the borough’s Rustic Ridge housing development Aug. 12.
Framed photos of Thomas stood on the Rotary table under the park pavilion.
Jim Dreano, the borough’s human resources director who grilled with Thomas last year, kept that tradition going.
“He became a good friend real quick,” Dreano said. “I’m doing what I got to do. I went out to get the sausage from Saxonburg, where he took me last year — the good stuff. It’s not that far away.
“It’s nice and smooth (at the park). I knew that I would think about Mike here and there today, and I’ve been so busy. Everything is calm, and everyone is having a good time. No trouble, and the food’s good. Can’t ask for more than that.”
Dreano also made grilled cheese with fresh mozzarella and marinara sauce for those wanting a nonmeat option.
Plum EMS also had an informational tent and crews at the ready should folks need medical treatment. No incidents were reported.
More information about borough activities is available at plumboro.com.
