|
Can you believe the Molasses Festival just closed
for the 41st year? It is good to know that the people of Arnoldsburg
have devoted hundreds of hours of volunteer service.
Please accept a pat on the back from the citizens
of Calhoun County. We are proud of you.
This year’s opening event was the premiere raising
of the Calhoun County flag. The flag committee decided that Arnoldsburg
should have the honor since it was the first county seat. The 4-H Club,
representing the future of the county, was symbolic. It will be the
beginning of a new era of cooperation between the different sections of
the county. As one leader said, “We have no choice, we must work
together to survive.”
Even though the traffic was down, and dry weather
had caused a shortage of good cane, visitors were pleased with the nice
parade, more vendors and good entertainment. One of the favorite
activities, sponsored by Hospice, was a molasses bake off, with a
tasting party with privilege of voting for the crowd’s choice. Hospice
also sponsored a cake walk.
Many of the early organizers and long-time workers
are absent from present day activities, but their efforts are not
forgotten.
The spirit of community pride and hospitality was
still apparent to the visitors. Younger workers brought new ideas and
vitality to the festival, while still remembering the traditions of
their predecessors. Some workers are the third generation to volunteer.
There was a feeling of friendship among the crowd.
People enjoyed visiting with old friends, but still showed an interest
in new residents and tourists.
Thank you, Arnoldsburg, for what you are doing to
bring recognition to Calhoun and demonstrate Calhoun Pride. We look
forward to many more Molasses festivals.
|