LA JARA — The first-ever Pumpkin Smash was a success, but next year's will be better, according to town Event Coordinator Krista Ross.
Only one pumpkin tossing device was entered and it took some trial and error before the Sanford Schools' entry sent a pumpkin flying 150 feet. Ross said the event drew some attention, but only the one entry. Next year, she expects more.
The prize will be bigger, $1,000 to the adult winner and $500 in the junior division. Kinetic energy devices are welcome.
 Sanford took home a nice trophy, $200 and a year's worth of bragging rights.
Pumpkins scattered the land in the town park and each child attending the event took home their choice after carving.
Winner in the children's division was Isabel Green, who applied glitter and a bat bow to creating a charming lady creation.
Winners in the adult division were Daylon Palmer and Cyrus Guymon, who turned a mistake into a garish cannibal pumpkin with part of its dinner sticking out of its mouth. Each winner took home a $50 prize and the competition was tough, with some 50 persons plying their skills.
Ross said thanks are due to the outstanding efforts of many, including Lawrence Ortega for the donation of the pumpkins, Walmart for donating money, Jason Coombs for lending the town straw bales and La Jara Fire Dept. and Conejos County EMS volunteers for the safety team.  
Judges were Mayor Pro Tem Paula Medina, Trustee Austin Valdez, Building Inspector Joseph Trottner and town citizen John Montano.
Adding to the fun were Nancy Chairez with La Burger Y Mas and DJs Mr. and Mrs.  James Gibson for providing the music.