Last year James Winslow decided to help Lynwood, his brother, sell his pumpkins. Because of James’ eagerness to help run the stand, the Winslows named it James’ Pumpkin Stand. The business went well last year and they decided to go for a second year. That decision led to a terrifically busy year at the pumpkin stand.
The team planted the same amount of pumpkin, corn and squash seeds, but yields were well beyond year’s. Word was getting out that Mapleton was about to be the pumpkin capital of Aroostook County.
In chatting with James, one learns how the pumpkins are planted, cared for and harvested. He offers tours of the field using a golf cart. He mows the area around the stand and the field.
The family has pulled together to help James with the pumpkin stand, Lynwood Winslow said. Uncles, aunts, nieces and nephews have all pitched in because there are lots of pumpkins and squash to be harvested and sold.
The stand hosted its “Pumpkin Day and French Fry Fundraiser” on Oct. 12 to recognize World Down Syndrome Month. Bert Winslow, James’ brother, cooked his famous Bert’s french fries and gave them away in exchange for donations to the Central Aroostook Association in Presque Isle.
Several hundred customers came out. James’ niece, Violet, was also there selling potato doughnuts and homemade dog treats.
Small pie pumpkins not only make delicious pies, but they can be pureed and turned into a terrific sandwich filling, James Winslow said. Visit James’ Pumpkin Stand on Facebook for pumpkin and squash recipes.
The Winslow family is excited with the stand’s success. The family posted on social media, “We are so thankful that God chose our family to have James. He is a precious gift.”
October was first designated as National Down Syndrome Awareness Month in the 1980s and has been recognized every October since. It is a time to celebrate people with Down syndrome and make others aware of their abilities and accomplishments, according to Special Olympics.
James looks forward to customers coming by and buying pumpkins, squash and cornstalks. The season is winding down, so take advantage while you can.
Visit James’ Pumpkin Stand at 191 Griffin Ridge Road, Mapleton. It is self-serve and accepts cash, check or Venmo.
Stew Night
The Mapleton Daze Committee drive-thru stew night is Saturday, Oct. 26, starting at 4:30 p.m. at the Mapleton Lions Hall. Cost is $10.
Harvest Supper
The State Road Advent Christian Church will hold its annual harvest supper at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2.
Proceeds will benefit Matt Dionne and family. All are invited. All donations are welcome.
Hunters breakfast
The Mapleton Daze second annual hunters breakfast is planned from 5 to 10 a.m. at the Lions Hall. All are invited.
Auction items
The Mapleton Daze Committee is looking for items for their upcoming silent auction. Contact Lynnelle Foster or send a message on the Mapleton Daze Facebook page.
Terry Sandusky is the Star-Herald correspondent for Mapleton, Chapman and Castle Hill and can be reached at 764-4916 or at starherald.Tsandusky@gmail.com.