Fall Foliage Festival enjoyed by thousands

WINSTED — A fall breeze and warm sunshine combined for ideal conditions Saturday, Oct. 2, as thousands of people enjoyed the annual Fall Foliage Festival.

As usual, vendors ranged from local artists and crafters to downtown restaurants and volunteer organizations.

Big names at the festival included Congressman John Larson (D-1), who is campaigning to keep his seat in the House of Representatives. Noted female wrestler Awesome Kong was also on hand for autographs and conversations with fans.

Despite being known as a fierce brawler, Kong, aka Kia Stevens, was pleasant and soft-spoken, saying she was happy to enjoy the pleasant day. Kong was not able to make a wrestling appearance because of a recent back injury.

“I’m going to lie low for a while,� she said.

Children and adults enjoyed grilled foods, pizza and baked goods, while artists and area organizations showed their stuff. The Winsted YMCA noted that spaces are still available in its day-care center, which it called “the best kept secret in town.�

Betty Lacasse and Sue Hunter, also known as “The Bag Ladies,� had their booth set up with tons of handmade purses, bags, carryalls, wallets and checkbook covers with pen holders attached. The sisters started designing and sewing these one-of-a-kind bags as a hobby.

“Once we ran out of friends and family to make bags for, we decided to start attending events like this,� Lacasse said.

Hunter said, “It’s a great way to get out and meet people and make friends who are in the same market. We love it.�

Across the way from the Bag Ladies, the Faith Bible Church was handing out free walking sticks and Bibles to people who passed by. Local and state political campaigners also lined the streets, with volunteers handing out bumper stickers and signs to people who passed by.

Joe’s Sports Cards had a table out with a display of his sports cards and memorabilia, including baseballs signed by Reggie Jackson, Mickey Mantle and the 1978 Boston Red Sox.

The Laurel City Commission made its Fall Festival debut with a booth that included “Future Laurel Queen� crowns for younger girls to decorate and wear for pictures in the Laurel Queen’s throne.

Local rap artist Twig walked up and down Main Street promoting his concert next weekend on the town Green.

For those who live and work in Winsted, the Fall Foliage Festival added up to a fun day and a nice break from the rain.