Oktoberfest '23: Soup Was Perfect for the Rain!

Beneath the Terrace at the Stockman, one couldn't tell if the big ol' autumn moon was shining or not as the brave weathered the evening to partake in the 2023 Oktoberfest.

It was as though Charlie Pride was there singing "Is Anybody Goin' To San Antone?" as the deluge of gentle rain kept the rain gutters overflowing and setting an ambiance for the autumn festivities. This is the 6th year of the Chamber promotion and come rain or shine or cool evenings, the crowd enjoys a get-together.

There were several competitions for the evening, the biggest drawing point was the soup cook-off. Winners received their award money in Dino Dollars. Nine teams (either individual participants or couples teamed up) provided hot, inviting flavors of various soups to appease the taste buds. Winning the event was Jessica Robinson, winning $200; she prepared Jalapeno Popper Soup and had mini corn bread muffins to accompany the soup. The team of Layla Messerly and Kylie Bishop were voted as the second place team winning $100. They entered Chicken Taco Soup. Third place went to Bryce Allen and Stein Austin earning them $50. Their entry was Creamy Potato Soup.

Those attending had the opportunity to participate in Trivia sponsored by the Blue Ridge Brewery. Winning first place was the master of trivia for the evening, John Wiese.

There were five entries in the wreath decorating contest; Patty Seeley won $50 with her creation, second prize was won by Karen Ellsworth, for $25.

Elementary grade school classes entered the scarecrow decorating competition. From the entries, Mrs. Emma Oyler's first grade class entry was selected and the class will receive a pizza party.

The evening was also the first of the open late evenings for shopping. All three local banks started the sign-ups for Christmas Scrip which are no-interest loans which keep the money local, supporting the businesses in the community.

This was the kick-off for the holiday season, keep shopping local and support our community.