PHOTO BY LISA CARNLEY Carnival games, prizes, cotton candy and rides -- Spring Ho had it all. But what offered the biggest thrill for this youngster? A trading card from Lampasas Police Department Sgt. Chuck Montgomery, who while on patrol during the festival's carnival made this boy's night really memorable. Festival photos can be found throughout today's edition. Another Spring Ho has come and gone, and the last few days of the event proved to be real scorchers.

But even 100-plus degree heat didn't keep the crowds away, according to festival chairman Janna Hammett.

"The crowds were up at nearly every event," she said. More than 1,200 were on hand for Friday and Saturday night street dances, Mrs. Hammett believes. "That's way above what we usually have out for the dances," she said.

And parade-goers lined the streets for the Saturday spectacle, even though there were no clouds to temper the sun's rays.

Mrs. Hammett, in her final year as a committee member, said vendors at the arts and crafts fair said sales were down a bit, which they attributed to the economy. But vendors also noted that many of the sales events they attended before the Lampasas festival saw a downturn.

"I don't think they were disappointed with their sales," she said, noting that many have been coming to Lampasas for a number of years to sell their wares because of the good response.

Participation in the Spring Ho Beauty Pageant also was up, as were the number of spectators, who saved their spaces with lawn chairs many hours in advance.

"Even the opening ceremony crowds were larger than previous years," she said. "People were in the mood to celebrate.

"Overall, we are thrilled with the turnout for our annual event."

Much of the success can be attributed to the support the festival receives from the community -- businesses and individuals, as well as former committee members, Mrs. Hammett said. "They are always willing to lend a hand when needed," she said. "They are just incredible."

Mrs. Hammett also credited the city of Lampasas for its support, and gave a special thanks to Micky Tower, parks and recreation director. "None of this could be possible without him," she said.

Staging a festival of Spring Ho's magnitude takes cooperation from many people, she added.

It also takes a lot of time. Therefore, planning for the 2010 festival already is under way.