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Saturday, May 18, 2013
Covering Dallas, Monmouth, Independence, Falls City and surrounding areas since 1868
December 05, 2012
One of the best things I've learned since we moved away from the suburbs and nearby city activity is the shared sense of community found only by living in a small town.
We smile and greet one another, whether it is on the way to church, in the grocery store or at a community event.
Though our children may have grown and have lives of their own in cities and small towns many miles away, we watch the neighborhood kids going off to school in the mornings and share in their joy and laughter.
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The tree lighting on the Western Oregon University campus Friday evening was as fun and festive as always despite the raindrops and cold weather. MI Town residents of all ages bundled up to share in the traditional music of the season. Concerts at the Werner Center and Rice Auditorium were not to be missed, and we all were happy to welcome the Christmas season with an evening of fine entertainment provided by the Bells Choir from Christ's Church Methodist and Presbyterian United. Students from local schools and the WOU Brass Ensemble performed in the Werner University Center.
I can't say enough about the joy of living in a community where everyone has the opportunity to share in so many good things.
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Last week's Itemizer-Observer was filled with news of school and community events and it was a good opportunity to catch up with local events and make plans for upcoming programs. Reading through those pages reminded me again just how much there is to do in MI Town for people of all ages, and of the many goods and services that our neighbors provide for us -- all right in our own backyard.
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With the winter weather upon us and all those germs circulating inside stores, homes and businesses we visit every day, we need to take extra care to stay as healthy as possible. Flu and pneumonia vaccines are available at the Polk County Health Department Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. at the Academy Building, Suite 302, in Dallas. Nobody will be turned away if they are unable to pay. Call 503-623-8175 if you have any questions, or for more information.
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The Salvation Army bell-ringers are out there to remind us that during the Christmas season the need is bigger than ever to help those who are in need, and are unable to provide themselves and their families with even basic necessities. If you can contribute only a few pennies when you enter or leave the store, they will be appreciated. Many lives are changed for the better by these dedicated people, and you'll feel good just doing something for somebody else.
ACEBOOK