A Little Patch of Pumpkins

Emily Rasmussen comes from good stock when it comes to pumpkins. Her family farm in Grand Rapids, Minn., is home to the sort of pumpkin patch that communities around the nation look forward to visiting annually-a place for people to pick out their signature gourdes and avail themselves of some autumnal fun.

Strangely (at least to this newcomer), Glasgow doesn't currently have much to offer in the patch department. That's about to change. Along with Kaitlin Cusker-who grew up on Fox Farm Road-Rasmussen will be treating Glaswegians to games like giant Jenga, pumpkin tic-tac-toe, life-sized twister, a bean bag toss, gunny sack races, ladder golf and a photo booth.

The pumpkins on offer will include Baby Boos, Pik-A-Pies, carvers and specialty gourdes.

Rasmussen and Cusker have named their seasonal side business 2 Pups in honor of their pets, Zoey and Piper, and have chosen for their location a spot approximately five miles east of Glasgow on Hwy 2 owned by Cusker's father, JR, and her boyfriend Steve Chappell. The former duo set about planting on Memorial Day weekend with the help of a small crew of friends.

As of last Sunday, when the Courier visited, the team at 2 Pups appeared ready for an opening weekend of Sept. 26-27. A final weekend of Oct. 3-4 is also planned. Hours are set for 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

As the pumpkin patch is readied for its inaugural run, Rasmussen and Cusker are already looking forward to next year. "In the future," explains Rasmussen, "we would love to expand in size and in what we have to offer the community. We would also be interested in hosting field trips for the local school districts."

Admission is a mere $1, but donations are welcome. Drinks and and snacks will be available for purchase. The public is reminded that no alcohol or pets are allowed and closed-toe shoes are recommended.

For more information, call 480-5089 or (218) 398-0841.