Carroway Island Ledger | Public Notices & Seasonal Observations

On the Matter of the Pie Tables at This Year’s Festival

Filed by Order of the Committee | Late Afternoon, Following the Second Bell

It is here noted, for the sake of record and future temperance, that the Annual Pie Exhibition, conducted upon the green under otherwise favorable conditions, did not proceed in its customary and orderly fashion.

The arrangement of tables, having been completed in proper alignment, was at approximately one quarter hour prior to formal judging observed to become the site of a disagreement of a personal nature between two participants of long familiarity to the island.

Witnesses differ as to the initiating detail, though there is general agreement that it involved an apple preparation and an act of inspection not universally regarded as appropriate.

What followed may best be described as a reciprocal demonstration involving both apple and cherry varieties, the same being executed with a degree of intention sufficient to attract the attention of all present.

At this juncture, restraint—previously maintained—was no longer observed.

Additional parties, whether from conviction, confusion, or opportunity, engaged in similar conduct utilizing such pies as were within reach. Said pies included, but were not limited to: blueberry, custard, and one lemon of notable construction.

The tables, having been set with care earlier in the day, were rendered unsuitable for judging shortly thereafter.

It is further recorded that Mr. Halvorsen, present in an observational capacity, was struck during the course of events and did respond in kind, though no formal complaint has been lodged.

No lasting injury is reported beyond that which may reasonably be expected under the circumstances described.

The matter concluded without formal intervention, the available inventory of pies having been exhausted.

Cleanup was undertaken collectively, though not without commentary.

In consideration of the above, the Committee has resolved the following:

• That future exhibitions shall include a clearly defined boundary between entries and observers.
• That the practice of pre-judging “inspection,” whether by utensil or otherwise, is to be discouraged.
• That participants are reminded that placement of hand, finger, or similar instrument within another’s preparation is not consistent with the spirit of the event.

No determination regarding awards has been made for this year.

It is the sense of the Committee that, under the circumstances, all entries were equally considered.

Filed and entered into record so that the matter need not be spoken of further, though it is understood that it will be.