Before the bikes rolled in, before the smell of funnel cakes and barbeque filled the air of downtown Ironton, a small group of people were feverishly at work, putting the final touches on a year’s worth of preparation for the largest festival in Ironton.

These few people, with what would seem to be an insurmountable task in front of them, conducted themselves with a demeanor not often seen in the face of such an enormous task, jokingly attending to the business at hand: Rally on the River 2013.

While many have voiced their opinion on the event, nothing negative can be said about the absolute and unwavering dedication that this small group of volunteers have for their city.

They gain nothing financially from this event. Every cent is put right back into the city by way of the Ro-Na restoration project, the Ironton Splash Park, protective gear for the Police Department, etc.

I had the great fortune to spend the past several days, and I mean DAYS, with these amazing people. These are mothers, fathers, grandmothers, grandfathers, all of whom have one interest in mind: Bringing great things to Ironton.

Being a 38 year old, I was probably one of the youngest people helping this group while they put on a three-day event that deprived them of sleep, food, family, and normalcy, and all without complaint.

These are people who are passionate about their cause, and will prevail no matter what obstacles stand in their way.

I hear many people complain about the Rally. For some, this event isn’t their cup of tea.

While completely understandable, remember that your kids or grandkids have a first class Splash Park to play in during the heat of summer. Our officers are better protected from criminals with ill-intent. Our historic RoNa theater is coming back to life, and our businesses have an opportunity to prosper during an event that quadruples our city’s population for one weekend.

My back aches. My feet are sore. My voice is nearly gone. I thought that the work I did on behalf of Ironton aLive was something. It is a drop in the bucket to the work the Friends of Ironton have taken on.

This past weekend has given me an even greater respect and admiration for the Friends of Ironton and the work they do. But to rebuild a community, it requires the community to get involved. Be the change you want to see, Ironton. Get involved. Make a difference.

 

Jon Ferguson is executive director of Ironton aLive. He can be reached at (740) 532-2296 ext. 301 or by email at jonferguson@irontonalive.com.