The Pumpkin Smash at the Town of Shawangunk Transfer Station was a hit, according to organizers with the Vision of Wallkill (VOW). A first of its kind in Wallkill, this pumpkin-throwing event was a celebratory close to the Halloween season. Families tossed their well-loved pumpkins and Jack-o’lanterns and received an ice cream cone gift card to Stewarts when they hit the bullseye.

VOW reported that 28 gift cards were given to skilled and successful pumpkin throwers. In this collaborative project by Vision of Wallkill and the town’s Environmental Committee, residents helped to enrich the compost pile with the mashed-up remains and learned more about the goals of the recycling center.

Vision of Wallkill helps organize a host of programs throughout the year. Next up on Saturday, November 19, at 10 a.m. in the Community Room of the Shawangunk Town Hall will be a children’s craft session for making a pine cone feeder for birds. The cost is $5 per child; two to three pine cone bird feeders can be made by each child. Adults should plan to stay to help.

With the season of giving just around the corner, VOW, in partnership with Wallkill Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry, is requesting donations of frozen turkeys and turkey breasts, as well as frozen dessert pies to distribute to nearly 300 families for Thanksgiving. Other Thanksgiving staples to donate include canned corn, green beans, yams or sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce and gravy, stuffing and apple juice. Also needed are essential items such as bar soaps, toothpaste, and men’s shaving items. Donations can be dropped off at the pantry located behind the Wallkill Reformed Church at 45 Bridge Street, where they can be placed in the donation bins if no one is present to receive the items. The pantry ministry will be checking the bins frequently to prevent donations from spoiling.

The hamlet of Wallkill will be celebrating the holiday season throughout December. From now until December 7, all residents are encouraged to decorate their homes and business, front yards and sidewalks for this year’s Sparkle & Shine Contest. Participants are encouraged to post their photos and address (if desired) on VOW’s Facebook page for everyone to see. The residential categories are Traditional, Creative and Motion. VOW will also select the businesses with the best decorations and holiday spirit. Judging will take place December 8 and 9, so be sure to have your house and business ready. Winners will be announced by December 14. All winners will be recognized and are invited to receive their awards at the Shawangunk Town Board meeting in January.

Stay up to date with more VOW fun by following the group’s Facebook page.