The city of Alton’s Black and Gold Walnut Festival was last weekend. The event is steeped in tradition and celebrated its 30th anniversary this year. I have attended this festival many times and always enjoy seeing the handcrafted items from artisans and vendors in this area.
Saturday’s events included a pumpkin carving contest, baking contest, woodworking, vendors, and of course great food. The Alton Elementary, Junior High and High School music departments and the school's drama club all gave wonderful performances. It truly is great when the community can all gather in one place to see the hard work of both teachers and students. Other highly talented groups and bands entertained the crowds, including the Blind Cat Blues Man, True Country and the Royal Oak Band.
Festival organizers also arranged a series of contests, in which people of all ages could participate. Contests included pumpkin carving, Walnut Festival Idol, baking and candy making, and even a contest for crafts and woodworking made of walnut.
Events like these not only give us all a chance to come together, they provide an opportunity to share our talents with one another. From the baked goods and candy, the woodworking and crafts, to the children’s creativity when carving their pumpkins, it truly is a day to enjoy and celebrate the great area we live in.
As always, I appreciate it when groups from around Missouri and from our community back home come to visit me at the Capitol. If you would like to arrange a time to come and visit me in Jefferson City, or if you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact my Capitol office at (573) 751-1882. |
