As if on cue, the rain was replaced by sunshine for the start of this weekend's Laurel Hill No Tricks, But Treats event for children.

But those who know the event's organizer, say Hattie Goodwin would have provided "a ray of sunshine" even if the skies had remained overcast.

Goodwin said purpose of the two-hour festival was simple.

"I wanted to draw the children away from the televisions and spend time with their families and friends," she said.

The carnival-like event drew about two dozen children.

"It rained so a lot of people didn't come, but we still had a good time with the children and parents that did come," Goodwin said.

The event had things to do like bobbing for apples, basketball, egg tossing, music and prizes to win.

Goodwin who is a teacher at Scotland Accelerated Academy, said she hosted the event because she cares about the youth of Laurel Hill and Scotland County.

"I try to be open the kids in the community and in schools," Goodwin said. "I like to show the children love and I want to try to make Laurel Hill a better place for the children play and live."

Goodwin asked Lt. Gyivan Jackson of the Scotland County Sheriff's Department to attend.

"I wanted the kids to interact with Lt. Jackson so they can understand what is going on in schools today," Goodwin said.

Lt. Jackson who is one of the deputies over all the middle schools in Scotland County spoke to the children and their families about the consequences of having drugs and weapons in the schools.

"We care about the children of Scotland County...that is why I am here, that is why Mrs. Goodwin is here and that is why the newspaper is here today, to get the word out that violence in schools is not the answer for you young people," Jackson said.

Goodwin plans on having another even in the spring that will be called 'Do you know your neighbor?'

"People should know their neighbors and a lot of people don't know their neighbors these days," Goodwin said. "I want to invite everyone to the event when it happens especially the children."