My View – June 2013

It’s finally here…summer, that is! With awesome weather, high-season is now in full-swing with activities and fun for locals and visitors. This June, events abound including the Dogs for the Deaf Walk, the 25th Annual Bella-Bration, the Farmers Market, Applegate Valley Day, the Boosters Club 50th Year Picnic, A Taste of Summer, opening of the 2013 Britt concert season and a slew of others… you’ll find information on everything in this issue!

A Long and Winding Trail…After 15 years, a land swap between the city and the Motorcycle Riders Association looks as if it’s about to become reality. Read more in City Snapshot on page 16. Congratulations are in order for all involved in making the swap happen, especially Tony Hess and Dick Ames. Unfortunately, City Councilor Dick Ames didn’t live long enough to see the swap become reality, but deserves the credit for the vision and dedication to making it happen.

The Coming Community Crisis?

Over the next few months, I will be exploring and reporting on a looming crisis: Jacksonville’s diminishing volunteer pool happening due to demographic shifts. In other words…our aging population means that younger volunteers are needed to step-up and take the reins for several community organizations. Community-based and focused volunteers working with the Boosters Club, Forest Park, Beekman Arboretum, Garden Club and others need volunteer replenishment to continue the mission of making Jacksonville a great place to live. For decades, these groups have provided incalculable hours of work, resulting in a better quality of life for everyone living here today. If you are reading my comments and know someone who would be interested in volunteering, cut this article out, hand it to them and ask them to call me! I will put them in-touch with someone who needs their help.

With so many volunteers to thank and so much to celebrate, I hope you enjoy summertime in Our Small Town with Big Atmosphere!