Our newspaper frequently hears complaints, written and verbal, about community events — specifically those that are free or charge a nominal fee.
Just minutes after posting a story about this year’s lineup for the Watercade street dance on the Independent Review’s Facebook page, someone complained. The post said people could see the two country music bands “anywhere.”
Unless people are willing to pay a high price for a ticket, a city the size of Litchfield can’t justify hiring an expensive “big-name” music artist or band to entertain street dance-goers in July.
Several of Litchfield’s community events, including most Watercade festivities, are free. They’re free because of volunteers. And they exist because of volunteers.
Not only do volunteers work at events — helping with set-up and take-down; staffing registration tables and ticket booths; providing crowd control; compiling results for contests and competitions; distributing programs and flyers; emceeing, etc. — but they are vital to organizing and promoting them, as well as encouraging involvement.
While others enjoy a show or contest, volunteers often miss out on the fun as they work behind the scenes. The Litchfield area is fortunate to have people who are willing to make that sacrifice.
Event organizers, including members of the Watercade Board, welcome feedback. After all, they don’t want to waste energy and resources on an event no one is going to enjoy. But criticism of efforts to bring entertainment to town demonstrates ignorance and discontent that’s going to hinder the wholesomeness we strive to maintain.
Community events would not be possible without volunteers. For most local organizations, an event’s success is dependent on a network of volunteers. Our sporting events and those showcasing the arts would struggle to run efficiently without volunteers.
Event volunteers work hard at events, and typically attend several planning meetings prior to them — all without pay, and in most cases, toward a worthy cause.
Complaints without suggestions lack purpose. The public shouldn’t be afraid to share ideas with event organizers. But let’s not forget to thank them, too.
Copyright 2018 Litchfield Independent Review/Crow River Media/Media News Group.