EXCITEMENT BEFORE THE CELEBRATION —David Johnston erupts with pride, mere moments before Jerry Riffle comments that his guess of the tree sample is correct. Pictured from left are Chad Jonsson, David Johnston and Dave VanLue. (Photo by Elisa Walker)

SYRACUSE — High cheers roared through the Syracuse Park Board meeting room the evening of Monday, Oct. 8, as David Johnston correctly guessed a redbud tree sample Jerry Riffle brought in. Riffle, known for his extensive knowledge about trees, regularly brings samples to quiz park board members.

The evening was a monumental win for Johnston.

After finances were discussed, Riffle reiterated from the last meeting two small trees, three medium trees and six large trees were to be planted.

Parks Superintendent Chad Jonsson reported he is still predicting to have the community center’s new sign by the end of the month. Jonsson added the cattails at Lakeside Park have been sprayed and the floor in the fitness room has been replaced with flooring better designed for fitness rooms.

Judo and pickleball continue on a regular basis while the farmers and artisans market approaches its final day of the year at the Fall Harvest Festival from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13, at Lakeside Park. There will be live music, a variety of family fun activities, food vendors and much more for everyone to enjoy.

The popular indoor garage sale will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 20, at the community center. Due to filling up so quickly, registration for the sale is closed.

Haunted Thrill at Veteran’s Memorial Park at Crosson Mill will be 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Oct. 26-27 and 31. The haunted house will be $5 per person and is not recommended for people under age 12.

Partnering with the Lakeland Youth Center, the parks department will be hosting the LYC Fall Carnival from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 27, at the community center. There will be craft activities, costume contests and many games with prizes. The event is free and open to the public.

“Hotel Transylvania 3” will play for the first free movie night at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2, at the community center. Free popcorn and additional concessions will be available. It is recommended for visitors to bring a chair or a blanket to sit on.