Walkers at the start of the Monster Mile Family Walk on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022, seemed taken aback by the talking, moving scarecrow, a new addition this year to the attractions along the Odd Fellows Loop at Alameda Park. Eric Freehling/Butler Eagle

Taylor Swift released a new album … again. While there is a ton of negative buzz surrounding it, I argue it is her best and most intimate work. I would know, because I relate.

“The Life of a Showgirl” is Swift’s inner monologue at the height of fame following the Eras Tour and a very public relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.

Listeners are calling “Showgirl” a disappointment — a far cry from “lyrically advanced” albums like “folklore.” These complaints prove an age-old adage about entertainment that Swift spells out in her song “Elizabeth Taylor”: You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby.

As someone who’s often recognized from the last show I was in, called “Miller Minutes” in public — only known for the last note I sang or word I wrote, I can relate. The showgirl life is a juxtaposition of being known and loved, but not really.

Contrasted with the life of Swift and Kelce, which seems to be one of complete understanding, this makes for an ingenious album with rich subject matter. It’s not only catchy, but it’s exclusive … for people who get what it means to cry when the curtain comes down.

“Be my N.Y. when Hollywood hates me” is another lyric which proves this point. Think about Broadway, whose talent is only understood and recognized by those who show up. The fans of Hollywood actors are separated by a screen and thousands of miles, which only reveal a fraction of the expression and emotion produced by a stage performer.

In short, remember the creators you love (or hate) are people too, who need to be seen as people, too.

You have a chance to support local showgirls (and boys) this weekend at numerous events across Butler. Take a look!

Hear author and historian Todd DePastino speak and lead a discussion on the veteran experience at a breakfast from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Friday at American Legion Post 778, 150 Legion Memorial Lane in Butler Township. This event is open to veterans of all eras to share their personal experiences. Contact betty@veteransbreakfastclub.org or visit veteransbreakfastclub.org for more information.

Zelienople’s Fall Festival is a conglomeration of vendors, food, activities and more from Friday through Sunday on the borough’s Main Street. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. Friday with a block party, and is followed by a chili cook-off and car cruise in the following days. For a complete list of activities, visit zeliefallfestival.com. Information for the kickoff part is on a Facebook page.

Be dazzled by the Musical Theatre Guild of Butler’s production of “Tick, Tick … Boom!” at 7:30 p.m. this Friday and Saturday, as well as next weekend. The story explores the coming of age of several artists in New York, most famously the creator of “Rent.” For tickets and more information, visit.mtgbutler.org.

Harmony’s Sleepy Hollow Festival starts at 10 a.m. Saturday in the borough’s square, featuring events for children, adults, and even pets! Shop vendors, hear live music and take a carriage ride through a spooky local neighborhood. For more information, visit the event Facebook page.

The Butler County Sportscard and Pokemon Expo lasts from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday in Tesla Ramada by Wyndham, 139 Pittsburgh Road in Butler Township. VIP admission costs $10 and general admission is $5. Visit the Ohio Sports Cards Facebook group for more information.

The Monster Mile Family Walk through Alameda Park, 184 Alameda Park Road in Butler Township, features a bounce house, petting zoo, candy stations and more fun for children at 11 a.m. Saturday. Tickets cost $10 per child over 10, and registration is required by visiting bcpr.recdesk.com.

Butler Downtown is hosting the annual Witches Day Out at 11 a.m. Saturday on Main Street. This event, which encourages gussied-up participants to shop and eat local, includes a costume contest event at the Penn Theater. For more information, visit the event Facebook page.

Trunk or Treat is back at EDCO Park, 154 W. Main St. in Evans City, from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday thanks to St. John’s United Church of Christ. This is a free event, so children are encouraged to come dressed for Halloween. For more information, visit experiencebutler.com.

Only humans are invited to the Fire-Pitties & Flannels event benefiting the Butler County Humane Society. But don’t worry … the organization is bringing furry friends. A $65 ticket includes a southern style dinner, cookie table, live music, games and bonfire from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Find more information by visiting butlercountyhs.org, and a location will be disclosed upon ticket purchase.

Bring a blanket, chair and your whole family to an outdoor showing of “The Nightmare Before Christmas” in the Spring Street parking lot in Zelienople. This event is in conjunction with Fall Fest. For more information, visit the event Facebook page.

If you are interested in your event being featured in Miller Minutes, please email information to news@butlereagle.com.

Molly Miller is an Eagle correspondent.