By Brian Buethe, President, CEO, Grimes Chamber & Economic Development
June 2021 Newsletter Article
For me, it was a summer day in the early 1980’s, just outside a small town at my family’s local church. That is where one of my fondest childhood memories was born. While we may have been celebrating some kind of milestone, my aging mind tends to recall it being an annual event. I loved my childhood, but the area in which I was raised would probably not be considered modern, especially by today’s standards.
There was no carnival, I don’t think food trucks had been invented then, and anyone with a good booming voice could probably project better than the very old school microphone/speaker combination they tried to use. But there were some great things that, looking back now, I really cherished. Things like bobbing for apples, a livestock water tank full of pop (no bottled water or beer at this event), a pickup baseball game with everyone using wooden bats. There was great playground equipment like very tall swing sets, a lightning-fast merry-go-round, and one of those very tall metal slides that with a little waxed paper was a recipe for speed…and fun. Lots of fun. There were three-legged races, bag races, and a lot of great food prepared by members of the community.
Most importantly, at twelve years old, I was surrounded by people I loved and who loved me right back. My family was there, but also so many members of my local community. The people of my community worked hard to put together an event that forged one of my most cherished memories.
A lot has changed since the 1980’s, but I would suggest that people are doing things that are forming these same types of memories for kids of all ages right here and right now. Whether it is at a large community event like Governors Days, an event orchestrated by a local organization, or a family or neighborhood gathering, I encourage you not to take these opportunities for granted. Go out and get involved as a volunteer or a participant…or both! Be a part of something. Include those around you, like family, friends and neighbors.
If this past year has taught us anything, it is that we must cherish the time we have together. Because through camaraderie, we foster community and build memories. With that in mind, on behalf of the many friends and members of Grimes Chamber & Economic Development, we look forward to seeing you out and about. #lovegrimes