TODAY MARKS the return of a Harrison County tradition…the 48th annual reunion of the Stumptown Steam Threshers.

The event is held the second weekend of September just west of New Athens on Ohio 519 which is also known as Stumptown Road.

The annual event, which was first started on the Raymond Laisure farm near the current location, is well worth the drive and $3 admission fee. Children under the age of 12 are admitted free which makes it an even better deal for the family.

Activities kick-off this morning at 9:30 with opening ceremonies and continues throughout the afternoon and evening.

Sunday’s events will commence with a church service followed by the noon whistle blow and a variety of afternoon events.

A variety of activities are held each day including the popular slow engine races featuring those huge behemouths that were used in days gone by at farms across the nation. A kiddie tractor pull is always a big hit with the kids as is the candy and coin hunt.

Adults can be found walking the grounds to watch the stationary engine chugging away or enjoying the old saw mill in action. Many make it a point each year to visit the flea market which has something for everyone while others attend just to meet up with some old friends!

Another highlight for attendees is the food offerings provided by the New Athens Volunteer Fire Department and its Ladies Auxiliary.

Available foods range from an early morning breakfast featuring eggs, pancakes and sausage to lunch and dinners which includes the famous Thresher Burger, fish sandwiches, bean soup and corn bread and a wide varity of homemade desserts.

Ice cream is also available on the grounds along with other concessions.

While in the area, you may also want to travel next door to visit the 7th Annual Old Construction and Surface Mining Equipment Show.

The Ohio Valley Chapter of the Historical Construction Equipment Association hosts the event and offers enthusiasts the opportunity to get up close to actual mining equipment.

Antique trucks, crawlers, mining (both surface and underground) equipment are expected to be on display along with operating equipment.

There is no charge to visit the mining show. However, donations of $2 per person are accepted.

A shuttle between the Thresher’s ground and the park is provided. The show is open from 9 a.m. to dark today and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

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MOOREFIELD CHURCH and School Reunion will be held tomorrow, September 12, at the Moorefield Community Center, just off of U.S. 22.

The day’s activities will begin at 9:30 a.m. when Sunday School commences followed by a church services with the Rev. Gerald Dombroski and the Rev. Roy Stidom at the Moorefield Church at 10:45 a.m.

A covered dish dinner will be held at 1 p.m.

More information may be obtained by calling John Burgess at 740-968-0715 or 330-340-9518.

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SEPTEMBER 18 will be a busy day in the village of Scio.

Leaders are hosting an informational meeting at 1 p.m. in the community park to discuss the proposed construction of a skate park. At 3 p.m., leaders expect to host the frst Pickin’ in the Park bluegrass concert that same afternoon.

The skate park meeting is being organized by Councilman Jeff Snyder who said the time will be used to get input from local skate board enthusiast.

He also said grants are being sought along with a location and layout. Volunteers to assist with the project are also being encouraged to lend a helping hand.

In the event of rain, the gathering will be moved into the Methodist Church which borders the park. Those wishing to make a monetary donation to the park may do so at any PNC Bank location. Information may be obtained by contacting Snyder at 740-945-1041 or Harrison County DARE Officer Eric WIlson at 740-942-2197.

The plans for the bluegrass bash are still being made but Scio Mayor Bob Hendricks said things are moving forward. He anticipates a picking session with local musicians while game may also be set up for the afternoon.

Members of the Scio Ruritans will host a food stand while admission to the concert is free.

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SALLY BUFFALO Park in Cadiz will once again host its annual Oktoberfest at Wallace Lodge on Oct. 2 and 3.

Activities will include a craft show, flea market, food, drink, various vendors, crafters and inflatable rides.

The event is always popular and entertainment will be provided on the stage behind the lodge.

The third annual Lucas D. Sedgmer Memorial Scholarship 5K Run/Walk will be held Sunday beginning at 1 p.m. with a kid’s fun run scheduled for noon. Information on the run/walk or fun run may be obtained by calling 740-491-1371.

Sedgmer may be reached at ksedgmer@timesleader online.com