Pumpkin launching solves post-Halloween problems

It’s just after Halloween. Masks are stowed in the closet until next year, candy wrappers are strewn across the floor and the same horror movies that run year after year stop. But what happens to the pumpkins that are slowly rotting away on the porch?\nThe answer is obvious: They are launched in the air and demolished in the Great Bloomington Pumpkin Launch.\nAn annual event since 2002, Thomson Park will hold the Pumpkin Launch, located at 1400 Thomson Park Dr. \nThe launching contest consists of both distance and accuracy segments. Participants in this event are required to design and construct anything they believe can launch a pumpkin that weighs at least five pounds. These devices must be powered by humans and any that use electricity, hydraulics, fuel or compressed air will not be allowed. Those interested in launching with their own machines can register for $5.50.\nSpectators to the launch pay a $1 entry fee.\nAbout 200 to 300 people show up every year in anticipation of the soaring pumpkins, said Sarah Nix, Community Events Specialist for Bloomington Parks and Recreation. \nFor $1 more, attendees can participate in a dessert taste-off.\n“It (consists) of area desserts that are all pumpkin flavored: cookies and cake and pumpkin flavored cheesecake,” Nix said. \nAfter the tasting is done, participants are asked to mark down their favorites. At the end, a winner is announced.\nThough the dessert taste-off might appeal to some, the pumpkin launch is the main event.\nThe launch participants need four pumpkins total for the accuracy and the distance competitions because each competition has two trials, according to a press release.\nFor an additional $25 registration fee, and another pumpkin, participants can compete in the Longest Launch contest. \nThe winner of this contest will receive what Nix called the “Bloomington Prize Pack,” a bundle of gift certificates from local restaurants valued at more than $200.\nJack Brubaker has been participating every year. His persistence and launching skills allowed him to win the distance contest every time and the accuracy contest once last year.\n“(My machine) is made out of two-by-fours … The actual design is one I’ve made up,” Brubaker said. \nBrubaker’s machine, based off Chinese design, is the product of many hours of research. Brubaker said his machine is called a counterweight trebuchet, similar to the battle catapults seen in the “Lord of the Rings” movies.\n“We usually have beefy guys operate it (because) sometimes it tries to flip over,” Brubaker said. “We oftentimes have to get volunteers to (hold it down).”\nBrubaker said he enjoys the event but regrets not seeing more participants in the contest every year. He said that there have been some in the past that have given him a run for his money. \n“If anybody wants to build something or wants advice on how to build something, I’ll be glad to help,” Brubaker said.