Little Mountain Reunion a Success Despite Adverse Weather
Little Mountain – This past Saturday, the Little Mountain Reunion brought together a vibrant community spirit, even as rain and storms loomed in the background. The day’s events began with a lively parade that drew enthusiastic crowds filling the streets with excitement. Despite the challenging weather, locals showed their support by turning out in large numbers, reinforcing the town’s profound sense of community.
A Day of Celebration and Community Spirit
Participants in the parade made sure everyone was comfortable and entertained. Many handed out free fans, bottles of water, and popsicles, providing much-needed relief from the heat. The atmosphere remained festive as families gathered to watch the procession and engage in conversation with neighbors, reflecting the unity and resilience of the people.
Voices of Leadership
Following the parade, the community welcomed a lineup of speakers who shared their thoughts on local developments and future prospects. One of the featured speakers was Senator Ronnie Cromer, who expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the Newberry County community for over two decades. “I’ve been here now for over 21 years and I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you here in Newberry County and District 18,” he noted. He emphasized the importance of upcoming elections in November and the need for community involvement.
In an emotional address, State Representative Joe White thanked the community for their support during his ongoing battle with cancer. “Many of you know that I was diagnosed with cancer on April 22, and I’ve spent most of the last eight weeks in treatments.” Expressing hope for his recovery, he encouraged everyone to remain engaged in the political process and emphasize their right to vote.
Highlighting Local Heroes
Local officials such as Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster also took a moment to reflect on their service. With a longstanding connection to the town, Foster recalled the pivotal moment of being sworn in as Chief of Police, marking the beginning of his law enforcement career. “It’s been a blast for the last 40-something years,” he stated passionately.
Other officials attended the reunion, including Newberry County Auditor Donna Lominack and Treasurer Karen Lindler-Smith, both seeking community support as they campaign for the upcoming election. Laura Kneece, the Newberry County coroner, spoke about her dedication to serving the people for another term, emphasizing the importance of community outreach.
Challenges and Perseverance
During the speeches, local council members Karl Sease and Leon Fulmer also addressed the audience, shedding light on some of the challenges facing the county, particularly in regard to first responders and emergency services. Fulmer stated, “Volunteers are the backbone of Newberry County… we owe a huge debt and gratitude to them for their service.” He invited the community to share their concerns and ensure that their voices are heard.
Future Leaders Taking Charge
As part of the event, candidates for various local offices also had a chance to connect with attendees. Michael Bedenbaugh described his long-standing commitment to serve his community, while Jaclyn Sease expressed her desire for a new generation of leadership on the Newberry County School Board, highlighting the importance of parental representation in education.
Conclusion
The Little Mountain Reunion was not only a celebration of local culture but also a reminder of the strength and unity within this community. Despite the rain, the spirit of togetherness shone through, reminding everyone of their shared commitment to support each other through challenges. With the November elections approaching, the voices of the community are more critical than ever, encouraging active participation for the betterment of Newberry County.
