MILL HALL, Pa. — Chainsaws will echo across the Clinton County Fairgrounds this weekend as more than 50 wood carvers take part in the 10th annual Hooskow Carving Festival.
"We have carvers from all over the country, guys from Vermont down here, Texas, New York, Michigan, and Ohio," said Jeff Donoughe, one of the organizers.
Carvers will have the chance to show off their skills. Those we talked to say it's nice to be surrounded by others who share the same passion.
"It is some wonderful people. The carving family is something I wouldn't trade for the world. I am honored," said Michigan resident Jason Alger.
"When you start carving, all of your talent just comes out. Your passion just comes out," said Nick Blassmann from New Jersey.
Most wood carvings will be on display and for sale. The three-day event will conclude with a live auction.
Carvers are working on masterpieces to put in the auction.
"The auction starts at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Basically, we will start moving stuff up here Friday night, the masterpieces that everyone has made," Donoughe said.
"I am looking forward to making a masterpiece. There is some competition here. There are some wonderful carvers from around the country that are here," Alger said.
Blassmann is working on his masterpiece: a gnome.
"I didn't know what I was going to do. I picked up a piece of wood today and started carving it, and it became a gnome, like it was inside the wood!"
The event will also feature quick carving competitions.
All the pieces from the competitions will be sold off, and all the proceeds will benefit Horses for Heroes, a charity that helps veterans dealing with PTSD.
The 10th annual Hooskow will run through Saturday, October 28, at the Clinton County Fairgrounds.