LEON — Saturday, Aug. 16, was a perfect day for a picnic. Leon, residents, past and present, gathered to enjoy a time of fellowship and lots of good food.

The Commissioners and town board members showed off their culinary skills and the auxiliary assisted with the serving. Picnic attendees brought their own specialty dishes to add to the spread.

Reminiscing was a highlight for many. Of particular interest was the Penny Royal display which brought many memories of times long gone.

The children enjoyed games under the guidance of Jackie Ellis. The sawdust pile filled with coins is always a popular diversion.

For the first time, a pie contest was held. There were fourteen entries and with a hearty thank you to judges, Tim Stockman and Deb Milliman, winners were selected. First place went to Donna Snyder for her apple crumb, second to Alyssa Seivert for her strawberry-rhubarb, and third to Peg Filock for her apple crumb. Honorable mention was also given to Elizabeth Milliman for her triple berry, Peg Filock for her peaches and cream and Donna Snyder for her Kentucky Pecan/Bourbon pie. Picnic goers were able to enjoy a slice of their favorite pie for dessert.

Two local bakers offered samples of their wares to promote their businesses.

So many delicious items to choose from. Seivert’s business is Little Bitty L’oven located on Milestrip Road in South Dayton. Markie Park’s business is Dailey Bread and is located on Main Street in Cherry Creek.

A wine and cheese basket, valued at over $300, brought in $160 and was won by Doreen Frost, the 50-50 ($53 for half) was won by Ellis and the door prize (a hand knit afghan) was won by Holly Abers. Declaring that she had many at home already, she asked for a redraw and it was awarded to Alicia Reukauf.

The wine and cheese basket was a compilation of items from local businesses and included items such as gift cards, scratch off tickets, wines, cheeses, cutting board, honey, jams, snacks and so much more. Many thanks to all who contributed to filling the basket and those who bought tickets.

This annual event, always on the third Saturday of August, was sponsored by the combined efforts of the Leon Fire Commissioners, the Town Board, the Leon Historical Society, and the Leon Fire Department and Auxiliary.

The annual picnic will be held next year on Saturday, Aug. 15.