In a sudden series of events, the junior float was vandalized only a day before Float Fest. Float Fest is an event where students from every grade come together to show off their classes’ float, a longstanding Homecoming tradition. The people responsible for the vandalism have yet to be identified. 

Anthony Detorres, one of the individuals involved in the junior float’s creation, expressed his dismay over the incident, “The float vandalism affected me in many ways because I think several people put their devoted hearts into our float, and it was just sad to see it get destroyed and vandalized,” he shared. 

Despite the setback, Detorres acknowledged the resilience of the community, praising the efforts of the couple who hosted the junior float at their home, Dan and Barb, whom he referred to as “legends,” for fixing the float in time for the festival.

Detorres, when asked about the consequences of the vandal, suggested a fitting punishment. “Probably not being able to go to prom if they’re juniors or seniors. And that’s about it,” he remarked, emphasizing the severity of the act.

Teagan Rhodes, another contributor to the float’s creation, shed light on the extent of the vandalism. “There was ketchup and mustard sprayed on it, and there was bologna. And I think there was like flour or something,” she detailed, listing the items used in the malicious act. Wyatt Hinman, grandson of Dan and Barb who hosted the float at their home, stated the vandal used, “eggs, sauce, sausage, and ketchup and mustard.”

Rhodes shared her thoughts on the impact of the vandalism, expressing frustration. “It kind of sucked because I spent a lot of time on the float and spent a lot of my homework time over at Wyatt’s grandma’s house working on the float so it kind of wasted my time,” she said.

Hinman, reflecting on the uncertainty caused by the vandalism, mentioned, “we weren’t sure if we’re going to be able to get it done in time for Float Fest because it was like that day, but we got it done.”

When questioned about consequences, Hinman had a different perspective. “Not even consequences like step forward and say that you did it,” he suggested, highlighting the importance of accountability.

Despite the setback, the community has rallied together to repair and restore the float, showcasing resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The true spirit of unity and support has emerged, turning an act of vandalism into an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate their hard work and dedication.