It is easy to look at a community calendar, glance at the events listed for the week, and think to yourself, “Someone else will go,” or “I’m just too busy this week.” We have all done it. But the truth is, a strong, close-knit town does not happen on its own, and it certainly does not survive on good intentions. It is built by the people who actually open their front doors and show up.
When local events pass by quietly without us, our local businesses feel it, our volunteers feel it, and our neighbors walking through tough times feel the silence. This week, Cheyenne County is giving all of us a clear choice to stand together.
On Wednesday, August 12th, Floyd's Truck Center is hosting their Customer Appreciation Day from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. When a local business takes the time and expense to say thank you to the workers, drivers, and farmers who power our region, stepping out to grab lunch and shake a hand is the least we can do to show mutual respect.
On Friday, August 14th, we face an even bigger call to show up at the Night of Hope Walk for Cancer. Imagine standing on that walking path as someone fighting for their life, looking around, and seeing your town surrounding you with love and support. Now imagine looking at empty stands. When a neighbor is battling cancer, your physical presence matters. Walking in that event tells local families that they are not fighting alone in Cheyenne County.
Saturday, August 15th, packs the calendar with moments where your absence will be missed:
- Garden Club Tour (9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.): Local gardeners have poured months of sweat and hard work into making our towns beautiful. Taking an hour to tour their work validates their dedication to our home.
- Guns vs. Hoses (Starting at 4:00 p.m.): Our firefighters and law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day for our safety. The very least we can do is fill the stands, bring our kids, and cheer them on during an afternoon of friendly competition.
- Chute 39 Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting (5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.): Opening a new business takes immense courage and financial risk. Imagine opening your doors for a grand opening and looking out at an empty parking lot. Let’s make sure the owners of Chute 39 feel the full, overwhelming welcome of Cheyenne County.
Every time you choose to attend a local event, you are casting a vote for the kind of town you want to live in. A vibrant, supportive, and prosperous community only exists if we choose to participate in it.
Don't let this week pass you by from the couch. Make the time, bring your family, and let’s show up for each other!