Mark’s Musings – June 5, 2019

Mark Fortune

What time is it folks? It’s Hot Air Balloon Festival time! You can find the official program inside this issue of The Beacon – there are lots of folks to thank for making this wonderful fun, free, family event possible and of course, The Frontier Power Company hits the top of the list for their major contribution to make it happen. We are fortunate to have them in our community.

There are many others to thank as well, the committee that is filled with – well, I was going to say hot air but perhaps that is not appropriate? Let’s say folks that are passionate about hot air BALLOONS!! They put in a tremendous amount of time and energy to ensure that people of all ages both near and far can attend and watch a hot air balloon launch, fly and descend. It is a wonderful sight to behold as many can attest. Not only can you see them at the fairgrounds but depending on the currents and wind conditions – or maybe that is direction – you can watch them land or launch from various locations throughout Coshocton County.

And thanks to all of the volunteers that “chase” and tend to the balloons, the many wonderful sponsors that help make the balloons possible and everyone that spends some of their valuable time in one way or another helping. It is appreciated and you need to know that your efforts put a smile on many a young person’s face. And that makes it all worth it.

There are some cool events here in Coshocton County during June – certainly the opening of the pools is at the top of many a list – the Balloon Festival is also right up there in the clouds for sure – and then comes the Indian Mud Run on June 22. Another really cool event that brings hundreds of people to our community and raises a nice amount of money too!

Thanks to everyone that makes the Indian Mud Run possible – and don’t let someone tell Hubie Cushman that one person can’t make a difference. He knows better. Thanks Hubie to you and all of your team for making this a wonderful legacy in Coshocton County.

Summertime means a lot of different things to people – grilling out, ballgames at all levels, swimming, boating, camping and we certainly have some nice campgrounds here in Coshocton County. As an older parent now, it takes driving by the ball fields to conjure up memories of tee-ball games, little league and softball. To all those that coach, run the rec programs, take care of the fields, run the concession stand or even running the youngsters to and fro, know that these are precious days and memories. Cherish them.

The Ridgewood varsity baseball team is doing our community proud! Thank you to these young men for their solid efforts and a tremendous season that will live on in Ridgewood history. The Generals wrapped up a regional tournament win and are headed to the state baseball tournament! Good luck and Go Generals!

Category: Mark's Musings, Opinion