Jonathan Meyer.

I had a bit of a busy weekend as did many community members. The combination of Lincoln Highway Bridge Festival and graduation is something that I always see as such a blessing, despite the busy nature. A coming together of the towns before wishing our graduating seniors well on their next steps into adulthood, it’s beautiful. Thinking back through the weekend I’m inspired by some of the things and people I encountered.

Being a part of the Community Band with my mom has been such a meaningful and impactful memory we’ve shared the last few years together. I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am in music without seeing her trumpet case in the closet when I was really little. From wondering what that silver piece of medal was to now getting to play side by side with my mom in front of the community who watched me grow and develop on the trumpet, I’m honored and feel so fortunate.

I will give Mr. Carnahan the biggest of shoutouts. That guy gives up so much of his time to help secure opportunities for his students. I don’t want to think about how many hours he spent with Friday night’s music and Saturday’s parade. I will forever be grateful for all of the life lessons he still teaches me. Tell him thank you next time you see him.

Saturday morning at the pancake breakfast it was nice to see table after table of people eating and having a good time in the firestation. I bounced around to a few tables, took some pictures, and of course had a delicious breakfast. I enjoyed seeing all the kids experiencing the power of community.

I’m realizing as I write this it’s turning into more shoutouts and observations than a story, good thing I have free reign on this one!

Someone that I’m going to give massive props to is Marlys Upah. From Marlys being my boss at the pool, to a mentor at the school, and someone that I contact for the occasional chamber activity, I know how much she did and how hard she worked to get parts of the festival organized. It was great to catch up with her and bounce some ideas back and forth.

How awesome was the Battle of the Brian’s? I wasn’t planning on staying for that event since Mike was covering it, but I couldn’t resist. Seeing Brian Sokol sitting looking cold and dejected on the edge of the tank, and Brian Hanus egging the kids on, were both equally as wholesome. Raising 1,400 for the safe routes to school project is nothing to scoff at either.

During the dunking of both Brian’s I had time to congratulate Karen Mixdorf and talk to a few of the Hometown Action Team members. Having a progressive goal that is going to substantially improve our town(s) is inspiring to watch and contribute to.

Julie Bisher, who I knew through church, was hanging out by the dunk tank and we got the opportunity to chat after a few years. My favorite memory of the Bisher’s was after Wednesday night services during lent. Jerry Bisher and I would dart to the basement and eat three slices of pie before Julie would wrap up her upstairs conversations and find Mr. Bisher and I were going ham on those heavenly church pie’s. Oh what a time that was.

A final shoutout before I wrap this odd edition of the column, is the graduating speakers. While listening back through those as I write my graduation recap, I found myself moved and reflecting on the words each of those speakers said. A fantastic job and a great way to put a bow on these insane few days in town.

Until our next community gathering, I’m Just Jonathan.