Out and About – Week of December 28th

Once a year I am able to announce that this will be the final column for the year, so I’d like everyone to know that this will be the final column for 2009. I’m taking the rest of the year off and my column will return January 5, 2010.

It’s been a memorable year to say the least. A positive example would have to be the 2009 Water Festival. Despite the tough economic times, the festival was still successful and, as always, a lot of fun. The 2010 Water Festival is already in the planning stages and promises to be even more exciting and a definite time to get Out and About.

The Relay for Life took place at Armstrong Field in 2009. There wasn’t a dry eye in attendance when the doves were released and the cancer survivors completed the survivor lap, which opened the relay. The 2010 Relay for Life is also in the planning stages and with everyone’s help, records will be set as far as donations and pledges are set and met.

This year will end with those of us in the Three Rivers area experiencing a mild winter so far. Speaking for myself, I realize we need the snow, because of the nitrogen, but receiving it in moderation isn’t such a bad idea.

This week, being in between Christmas and New Years, always seems a bit odd to me. I’m constantly confused about what day of the week it is. I was just getting used to hearing all the Christmas deals on the radio and television, and now I hear how all the stores are extending their hours, so that we can return gifts that we don’t care for, or don’t fit right. My chocolate Santa Claus was just one of many perfect gifts. I can’t return it, because I already ate it..

I’d like to offer congratulations to Beryl Loomis. Beryl is the winner of the Viewer’s Choice Award from the exhibit by the River Country Quilters. The Carnegie Center for the Arts hosted the exhibit. Beryl’s quilt, titled “Galaxy”, measures 92” by 88” and is in a contemporary pattern featuring suns and moons. It was machine-quilted by the artist. Visitors to the exhibit were impressed by the quilt, but also disappointed that this particular example of fiber art was not for sale. Congratulations, Beryl!

I’ve never been one for New Year’s resolutions, because I’ve never been able to keep them. I love to eat and I’m afraid that it shows. I will attempt, however, to be kinder to my fellow man and to treat everyone as I would want to be treated. All I can do is try.

I’d like to wish each of you a very Happy Year. Let’s all try to make the Three Rivers community a place to be proud of and a place that visitors will want to come back to visit again and again.

See you Out and About next year!

Submitted by Norm Stutesman