September SnapShot

A cowboy is silhouetted against the setting sun just prior to the start of the final rounds of the 2011 Viking Stampede Rodeo Saturday, Sept. 24. (Eric Crump/Democrat-News)

Bueker Middle School students were shocked when Real Encounter BMX riders jumped over a line of teachers on Friday, Sept. 9. The riders spoke motivationally to the youth about bullying and acceptance. (Maggie Menderski/Democrat-News)

Cline Williams, of Mississippi, enjoys his breakfast at Saline County Fairground while his Chihuahua waits patiently for a piece of it to crumble off. Williams and his friends are guiding his brother, Herman Williams, across the country on horseback on their Freedom Trail Ride expedition. At the end of their journey, Herman will be properly welcomed back to his hometown. Herman was pushed out of his Mississippi home by the town after returning from the Vietnam War. He now lives in Iowa. (Sarah Reed/Democrat-News)

The Scrambler delighted festival-goers at the Slater Fall Festival on Sept. 23-25 (Maggie Menderski/Democrat-News)

Jenna takes a flying leap into the pool during the annual Doggie Plunge Tuesday, Sept. 6, at Marshall Aquatic Center. Jenna was chasing a plastic "stick" thrown by her owner, Steve Green. They were among a number of dogs and humans who enjoyed the opportunity for one last dip. (Eric Crump/Democrat-News)

A raccoon shows its curiosity after Marshall Animal Control Officer Marlo McFarland pulls a trap from a property near Indian Foothills Park. Before 10 a.m. she's trapped two raccoons and releases both in an uninhabited area. McFarland says traps are available at Orscheln for anyone who'd like to keep them out. She will pick up the animals when called and return the cages. (Sarah Reed/Democrat-News)