Killbuck Early American Days weathers heat and rain
By Kelley Mohr
September 6, 2011
361
Summary: The fun-filled festival persevered despite high temperatures on Saturday and rain on Sunday.
Story: The streets were blocked and the festivities were ready to begin, but the skies had other plans for the 43rd annual Killbuck Early American Days.
The weather wasnt cooperative, Saturday it was very hot and muggy and Sunday we had a lot of rain, said Rebbie Baker-Chaney, event coordinator. But, juggling everything I think we had a good turnout.
Despite the high temperatures and heavy rainfall, many Holmes County residents braved the uncooperative weather to attend the Killbuck Early American Days.
Of course, the one factor we cannot control is weather, said Terry Lagsdon, event emcee. Weve tried to salvage and move on and keep everything on schedule as much as possible. And all of our entertainment has performed whether there was one person out on our benches or 50, whether its been raining or the sun shining, everyone has went ahead on schedule.
On Saturday, area residents competed in a softball tournament while Killbuck Alumni congregated at the school for a reunion. In a nearby yard, Larry Moore exhibited a collection of hand built radio controlled model airplanes.
Downtown, the Kiddie Tractor Pull was in full swing. Oblivious to the heat, children took a break from playing in the jump houses to pedal a mini-tractor down a short track, pulling weights of more than 66 pounds as far as their legs could take them. Kyle Sap, who took first place in his age group, pulled a weight of 154 pounds 37-1/2 feet.
As temperatures climbed into the high 90s, children greedily licked dripping ice cream cones and lines formed in front of vendors selling fresh-squeezed lemonade and snow cones.
Next came the pooch parade, in which young dog owners showed off their pets. Glenmont resident Callie Cline and her Chesapeake Bay Retriever named Buckeye won the categories of youngest dog, biggest dog, best tricks and best of show.
Other activities included a bicycle parade, money hunt, cake walk, hot dog eating contest and childrens games. Performances by the Walhonding Rube Band and the Cash Man, a Johnny Cash tribute act, were the Saturday night entertainment. Jillian Gurley, daughter of Jason and Jennifer Gurley, was announced the winner of the Queen Pageant and Granthan Lovell was awarded the title of cutest baby.
On Sunday, heavy rainfall replaced the high temperatures, but Killbuck residents are accostumed to high water. Gospel singer Larry Frennete and the appropriately named local Contemporary Christian band Highwater kicked off the morning with performances on stage.
As the day progressed, the storms worsened and the Grand Parade was cancelled. However, the skies parted long enough for a small parade of police vehicles, fire trucks, boy scouts and royalty. Grand Marshall Bob Gallion was honored on stage and local practitioner Dr. Paul Roth was recognized for donating his collection of medical equipment for a display at the Killbuck Valley Museum.
On Sunday evening, after the Hawkins lumber show entertained spectators with feats of woodworking, the raffle drawing was held. Winners received certificates to area businesses and the first prize-winner, Laura Harris, was awarded $300. All raffle profits benefited the towns library, museum, fire department and park.
To top off the weekend, the Saint Jimmies performed classic rock favorites between rainstorms. The guys and I always look forward to performing in front of a hometown crowd, we always enjoy the support of our fans, said Mitch Baker, a band member.
Once again, the crowd braved the elements to gather one last time and listen to the local band. Although this years festival was marked by erratic weather and improvisation, residents and visitors came away smiling.
Weve had to cancel a few things here today, but all you can do is smile, try to make the best of it and do everything you can to provide for the community each year and hope for a better situation the following year, said Lagsdon.
