Stomp on down to the Mill Yard for some spooky fun

Get ready for some fun for the whole family, as the Spooky Stacker Stomp is back, after a year off, and better than ever. The 5K fun run/walk, now in its 10th year, acts as a fundraiser, sponsored by the Cornell Area Betterment Association (CABA). “This began as a way to get people outdoors to enjoy the beautiful fall scenery and showcase what we have to offer,” said CABA treasurer Ginna Young. “It’s since become more than that – it gives us a chance to raise some money to put back into the community.” The race takes place, Saturday, Oct. 4, at Mill Yard Park in Cornell, with registration beginning at 9 a.m., and the race starting at 10 a.m. Participants are bused to the boat landing at Brunet Island State Park and make their way back to the Mill Yard. Those with the fastest times receive a prize, as do those in the best costumes. And remember to dress up fourlegged friends, as there’s a prize for the best dog costume, as well as a doggie dash and kids dash. Add in some Halloween-themed music, games, activities, hot cider and popcorn, and you have the makings for a fun time. But, it doesn’t stop there. There’s also a scarecrow building contest during the event, for a fee, which is reduced, if a family is also running in the race. Stakes, hay and embellishments (i.e. fake eyeballs, buttons, etc.) are provided, with families asked to bring their own clothes, hats, etc. Pre-registration for the scarecrow contest is required, by calling Young, at 715-313-3713, by Friday, Sept. 26. “No walk-ins are allowed,” she said. “We have to know who is planning to build a scarecrow, so we order enough supplies.” Race registrants can enter/pay the day-of, at the Mill Yard pavilion. Proceeds from this event will go toward funding the annual community Easter egg hunt in the spring and with continuing improvements at the Mill Yard Park. “We really hope to have a lot of people that day, not only running or walking in the race, but having family camaraderie building a scarecrow,” said Young. “Dress in costume, bring the dogs and make it a memory to last for years to come.”