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By: Angel Steiner
Stan Jordan, resident writer for West Bend News & all things Antwerp, was not able to attend the Day in the Park this year, so he asked me to muse over the day for our readers. Stan, nobody writes like you, but I will do my best!
Another Antwerp Day in the Park is in the record books. There were a couple of unofficial records set this year for Day in the Park for sure – hottest day for the event, most attended day, and longest parade – just to name a few. And all this was done by a Chamber board that is in their Freshman year of leadership!! Nancy Lichty, from the Antwerp Exchange Bank, was the lone experienced member, and she was a fierce leader, pilgrimaging her way through this festive day with willing workers alongside her from the community of Antwerp. Great job, Nancy, you are a keeper!
As I watched the parade from the road in front of Riverside Park where the vendors were finishing up their set up, I was impressed with the participants in the parade for this year. Many comments from parade goers standing by me said that this is the longest parade they can recall for Day in the Park. The floats were imaginative, there were a variety of participants from the school band and chearleaders to public officials running for local offices. Stephanie Foreman and Brian McLaughlin – superb effort and much gratitude for all that hard work!
Taylor Provines truly set the stage for the day with her most artfully crafted rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner. Her voice resonated throughout the park and all were at attention to pay respects for our great land. As the Gem of the Year, Bob Johnson, was announced, it was a moving experience to witness as his family memebers were watching with cameras and phones in hand capturing the moment for their memory books to show future generations of Johnsons. Bob’s humility in his acceptance speech was heartwarming as he told how much he appreciates Antwerp and its people and his family.
There were food vendors galore with no lack for variety. Patrons were walking around indulging in walking tacos, bratwurst, shredded chicken sandwiches, hand-battered corn dogs, kettle chips, and brisket. Not to mention, homemade ice cream, lemonade shake ups and funnel cakes! Superb efforts to the ones who facilitated these groups.
The entertainment stage was set for the day with a wide variety of talent. Brian Gaisford DJ’ed the day with Barry DeLong in the MC position getting all announcements to the crowd posthaste. The Dance Dolls were magnificent in their sparkling attire and adept dance moves. Julie Hall, you do a great job with those kids! The community band then filled the air with their pleasant melodies. The kids and adults alike enjoyed the storytelling abilities of Ann Homan. Her animated storytelling was entertaining for all. Austin Bowers and later Catalyst finished up the afternoon with some guitar pickin’ and rock band music for everyone’s listening pleasure. Sue Fowler, Christy DeLong, and Kelli Bradbury were in charge of these arrangements and they were terrific.
The Chalk Walk was great fun for those who dabble in the art world. This was Jeff Crabill’s first year chairing this event and there was a lot of talented pieces on display.
The other activities going on throughout the park were the Boy Scout’s ever popular May Pole swing. Kids were lined up to get a ride and swing around in the warm summer air. The Music Boosters had a ring of games set up for the kids to win prizes – the 2-liter pop was the most coveted prize to win!
Down by the Chalk Walk display, new this year to Day in the Park, was the Business and Industry Tent. Lynda Rude Grzych and Todd Cook conspired to put this tent together to spotlight the many businesses that Antwerp has to offer. There were giveaways, information, and a raffle for a picnic basket at the tent and many stopped by to gather more information about Antwerp’s businesses… and to play the bean bag game!
Sitting at the Chamber headquarters tent throughout the day were many faces supporting the Chamber’s efforts including Sandy Wann, Becky Zartman, Jan Reeb and several others (forgive me if I did not list your name here) who sold 50/50 raffle tickets, directed people to various tents, helped others with problems that arose, and just enjoyed the day as patrons stopped by to chat about the Day, the park, and Antwerp.
How could I end this article about a most fabulous day without mentioning the one person who took on the position of Chamber President just four short months before Day in the Park was set to take place. Tony Langham, your calm and composed demeanor held the Day in the Park committee together. You were a voice of reason, a beacon of peace, and a most wise supporter to all of the Chamber members. As some scrambled to cross all the T’s and dot all the I’s, you were right beside them saying, “You guys are awesome! Keep up the good work!” With you and your lovely wife, Kay, the Day in the Park was complete. Your love of Antwerp is apparent by your positive and encouraging attitude to everyone.
Well, folks in true Stan Jordan style, I’ll say “adieu” to 2016 Antwerp’s Day in the Park. It was a good one and will be remembered always.
See ya!
