DUKE CENTER (EC) – There were more vendors than ever before at
the annual Otto Township Old Home Days held over the weekend in
Duke Center.

According to Susan Zirkle, secretary, there were 43 vendors for
the event, including from the Lions, Scouts, Chamber of Commerce
and firemen.

Zirkle said some members of the chamber and Old Home Days
committee actually stayed in campers at the Otto Recreation Park
from July 25 through Sunday.

Another highlight of the weekend was the spectacular fireworks
show at dusk on Saturday.

“We have fireworks at home, but nothing like this,” a visitor
from Ohio said.

This year’s display was dedicated to two former workers, Karl
Marvin and Andy Beck, who were killed March 1 in an accidental
explosion. A tribute was given in their memory.

Officials said the new way of directing traffic out of the area
following the fireworks also went smoothly. The task was performed
by the local fire and traffic police.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, the Otto Township Lions Club sold more
than 350 chicken barbecue dinners.

Zirkle said the Old Home Days workers were tired out by Sunday
night, noting more help is always needed.

“We need more workers for setting up and tearing down,” Zirkle
said, adding all the volunteers showed up to help.

Also featured during the weekend was a parade, steak bake, pony
pulls, children’s lip sync contest and several food booths and
music.