SOMERS POINT — Grab some old clothes, some hay and twine and a tall stick and head down to the bike path for the inaugural Scarecrow Walk on Nov. 9.
The Somers Point Police Department and We Walk Somers Point have created a new event to get the public out on the bike path for some exercise and fresh air.
Those planning to enter their own scarecrow in the community-judged event can set up from 9 to 9:30 a.m. and the viewing will take place from 10 to 11:30 a.m. between New Jersey and Connecticut avenues. Scarecrows must be removed by the end of the day.
Kate Mackenzie, assistant to Chief Robert Somers, is organizing the event for the Somers Point Police Department. Register by emailing kmackenzie@somerspointpd.org.
“The goal is to have people register in advance, to have an assigned spot along the bike path, to come and set up a scarecrow design,” she said. “The goal is to be creative and family-friendly in their theme; it does not have to be large. The participant comes up with their own design.”
Spectators will be able to cast votes for their favorite scarecrows. The scarecrow that garners the most votes will win a four-pack of tickets to Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township, just in time for its winter wonderland display.
“Anybody who walks can be a judge,” Councilman Charlie Haberkorn said, adding that the event is another step toward growing the group.
“It gives the walking group another opportunity on the weekend, when we’re hoping to bring others out who may be working during the week,” he said.
The group meets at 8:30 a.m. Mondays on the bike path behind City Hall, which is at Shore Road and New Jersey Avenue, and Wednesdays at The Pit off Marks Road, where they circle the track around the football field.
Haberkorn said the addition of the Wednesday walks provides an opportunity for people who may be wary of stepping up and down off curbs to walk on a level track. Those who may move at a slower pace remain in sight of those who are quicker.
He said the group is averaging 16 to 18 people.
“It’s been good. The biggest thing is the conversations that happen between people,” Haberkorn said. “It’s a great way to get people talking to each other, so positive, learning from one another and sharing.”
Haberkorn said community activist Maureen Helbig, a yoga instructor, has been adding a wellness aspect to the walks, encouraging good posture.
“People are walking and talking and having a good time,” Haberkorn said.
– By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff