|
‘Black cats’ on the prowl |
|
Monday, 09 June 2008 |
By MATT NICHOLS
Staff Writer
SHAWNEE TOWNSHIP — Shawnee Township is packed with thousands of little woodland critters, such as chipmunks, squirrels and groundhogs as well as rabbits, possums and toads, that roam the region, — and now reportedly exotic black panthers.
For the last three weeks, residents across the township have reported sightings of at least one larger than average black cat romping around in their yards. Weight estimates of the animal have ranged from 70 to more than 100 pounds.
The sightings have had township officials and residents chatting for weeks.
Township resident Jim Richardson was the first person to see the “black cat” as it prowled around his neighbor, Gary Guagenti’s property.
“The cat came around and it was carrying one of Gary’s barn cats in its mouth,” Richardson said. “It stopped and just stared
The committee pays overhead expenses, such as tent rental, to maximize the proceeds raised by the community groups Gerlich said.
Attractions include the Carousel Queen Pageant on Friday, a 5-K run on Saturday, and a Town Council Breakfast Sunday as well as performance by Token Tribe on Friday and the Danger Brothers on Saturday.
Jerrie Bonitas, of Botkins, has been attending the carousel event for more than 14 years.
“I like being around the people,” Bonitas said. “I like to support the town of Botkins. I think it’s a good cause.”
She said she hasn’t seen much change in the event in the time she’s been coming, and that’s the way she prefers it.
“They’ve got a good thing going,” Bonitas said. “Why change a good thing?”
Judy Rostorfer, of Wapakoneta, said she has been attending the event for many years and loves watching the parade.
The Carousel Parade, held on Sunday, included more than 72 units this year, parade organizer Katina Shaffer said. It included an appearance by Grand Marshall Fritz Serr, who had announced the parade for more than 10 years.
Parade entrants included a replica of the General Lee from “Dukes of Hazard” owned by Jason Rogers, a cowboy-themed float from the Care-A-Lot Learning Center, and appearances by the Botkins High School and Elementary school bands.
Carousel Queen Chelsea Harshbarger and Carousel court members each waved to the crowd from a car through the parade as they were accompanied by their escorts. |
|
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 11 June 2008 )
|
