The coronavirus couldn’t keep the scarecrows out of Hopedale. “The first annual Hopedale Scarecrow Fest was better than we expected for a first time event,” said Tracey Philips, with Friends of Historic Hopedale. Of the 25 entries from residents, organizations and businesses, Philips would not commit to a favorite! “I would be hard pressed to pick a favorite. The amount of work and creativity that each entrant put into their scarecrows was incredibly impressive. We had entries that ranged from scary to cute to beautiful to wonderfully inventive and we even had 24-hour security provided by Officer Straw across the street at the Hopedale Police Department, who worked tirelessly all week without ever once thinking of bailing on us,” said Philips. Participation was not just successful in the entry category, but also in the enjoyment category. “We had many residents take part early on in our online scavenger hunts and then our Hopedale Fairy Walk Reverse Parade so finding something for the fall and winter seasons was a must. “Everyone has been extremely respectful of COVID rules and have been great about wearing their masks and social distancing and we'd love to take the opportunity to thank them all for their support and making these events fun,” she said. Philips said the community coming out and enjoying the display, was really her favorite part. “The best part was seeing just how many residents enjoyed walking around the Community House lawn looking at and taking pictures of all the entries. “While it's been a challenge to come up with events that are COVID-friendly, the ones that we have come up with have been so well received and appreciated by the residents that it makes every minute worth it,” she explain