Falls Fest is worth saving
Falls Fest is facing an uncertain future.
The last several years have not been kind to the Sheboygan Falls Jaycees, or the organization’s major annual fundraiser.
Declining attendance has hurt food and beverage sales, turning the once profitable event into one that is now struggling to break even.
The Jaycees have also taken a considerable hit, with membership dipping from 100 in 2003 to just 20 today.
Staging a major event like Falls Fest requires countless hours of work from a dedicated group of members, former members and volunteers.
Once Falls Fest ends for the year, Jaycees members don’t pack up, go home and take the next 11 months and three weeks off.
As a local service organization, the Jaycees count on the funds raised at Falls Fest to support various annual community-based improvement projects.
The Jaycees have been instrumental in the construction of shelter houses and playground equipment at River Park and Rochester Park, the Jaycees River Walk.
The organization is the driving force behind youth and family-oriented events, such as the annual free Easter Egg Hunt, sandbox fill, pitch, hit-and-run and punt, pass and kick.
Monthly elderly bingo and semiweekly bingo are also made available to community members, through the support of the Jaycees.
This year the venerable event returns to its birthplace at River Park to mark its 40th anniversary.
From the start, Falls Fest has been about giving back. It began in 1969 as a way to raise money for the construction of the footbridge, which connects the Municipal Building parking lot to the park grounds.
In returning to the event’s roots, the Jaycees are honoring its rich history, with throwback themes, special recognition of founding members and hopefully a much-needed turnaround toward a prosperous future.
Forty-five years of dedication to the well being of the community have included countless projects that have helped to make Sheboygan Falls a great place to live, work and play.
You get what you give. Many local businesses and individuals have stepped up to support Falls Fest and the work of the Jaycees.
However, others have not.
As a small community, those that don’t support and contribute to the good works of civic organizations are putting themselves out on a limb for scrutiny.
Support your community and your community will support you. A little extra effort goes a long way.
Due to dwindling membership, Sheboygan Falls lost its Optimist Club this year. The Optimists were an organization that gave back in many ways, lending tireless support to various public safety and education projects. The club left a visible void upon its departure.
Other civic organizations have fallen by the wayside in surrounding communities. Each time this happens, the quality of life suffers.
Community pride is something that should not be underestimated. Giving a bit of time or financial support will help to lay a support brick in the foundation of the city.
Falls Fest and the Sheboygan Falls Jaycees need your support. In this case, a crack in the foundation could cause a collapse.
Make a little time to visit River Park Saturday, Aug. 22. Help keep the Sheboygan Falls Jaycees and the city of Sheboygan Falls standing tall.
