The next time you find yourself stopped at Eureka’s only traffic light, take a moment to look around. What was once simply an intersection has been given a festive fall makeover, thanks to two local women who wanted to bring a little extra beauty and joy to the community.
Tonya Casper and Heidi Boone took on the project of decorating three of the four corners of River Street and Main Street, adding hay bales, pumpkins and other fall decorations to the intersection. The result is a welcoming display that adds a touch of autumn charm to one of Eureka’s most visible locations, and the only stoplight not only in Eureka, but in all of Greenwood County.
“For me, it’s about giving back. Adding beauty for people to see. Sharing joy for people that you normally don’t see. Letting people know that we do care and small acts of kindness can make a positive difference!” T. Casper said.
The idea began last year when T. Casper and Boone were talking at The Gym about ways to make the community a little more inviting.
“Tonya and I came up with the idea at the gym last year and went with it!” Boone said. “I love making a space more inviting and hope it will catch on and others join in as well! It’s all about taking pride in our community.”
The project has truly become a community effort. Decorations and support were contributed by The Gym, Eureka Pharmacy, G&W, Jonathan Goodwin, Steve and Austin Casper, Sara Gulick, Kelly Drake, and Kevin and Lori Burk.
All of the decorative items used for the project have been donated. T. Casper and Boone hope to continue the tradition by changing the decorations throughout the year to reflect the seasons and bring something new for residents and visitors to enjoy.
They are also happy to accept donations of decorations, funds, or other items that could help with future seasonal displays.
The fall fun doesn’t stop at the intersection. Local businesses are also being invited to join a free Hay Bale Decorating Contest, giving them a chance to show off their creativity, promote their business and add even more fall spirit around town. Businesses must have pre-registered for the contest with Eureka Main Street by October 4, with hay bales delivered by that date, and the winner will be announced by October 14. Organizers are encouraging local businesses to gather their teams, get creative and help “decorate the town” while building community pride and a little friendly competition.
And the next time you are driving through Eureka or find yourself waiting for that light to turn green, take a look around. What may seem like a small gesture is a colorful reminder that community pride can start with something as simple as a few pumpkins, some hay bales, and two people willing to make a difference. Sometimes, a little effort can make a big intersection feel a whole lot more like home.
(Courtesy photos)
