Dock of the Bay on the Way

Ready or not, here it comes...gonna find it's way, to the first weekend in May.

Every year, I warn folks to stay away if they hate fresh seafood, chocolate fountains, live auctions, beef, silent auctions, sunsets, warm air, live music, dancing, friends, etc, etc. Misanthropes need not apply.

The oneth of May, the tides will align for our annual shindiggin', fundraisin', feast. Anybody can come, provided you purchase your tickets...just call the Center for information on how to do so...you'll even get a nametag for you and yours...in case you forget your name, your date's name, or somebody else's name after a long night of...fun.

At around sunset, the Champagne Toast will transpire, with one lucky winner receiving a special toast...

Don't try to be the first in line for the buffet or dessert fountain. That's a battle you don't want to wage. If it's your first time, walk around in the grass, or sit under the tent illuminated by oil lamps. Examine the seashells on your table. Enjoy your vino. Responsibly. Wait till the line begins to evaporate. Rest assured, there will be plenty of food. Good food. Burn off your food with a jig or shag to the music of the Mighty Saints of Soul.

You could even talk to some of the event sponsors, or become one yourself...

Before you arrive, take some time to learn the 4-H Pledge . But don't worry, we won't make you swear allegiance to the world's greatest youth organization. Just support it with your attendance.

Meet with some of the Center's staff. Some will be busy working. Some will be busy working the crowds. Either way, all of us can relay the story of what we all do to perpetuate the mission of 4-H and Cooperative Extension.

The dollars that we raise will help raise the bar for the type of programming we offer to our visiting youth. Camperships that allow more kids to reap the benefits of the one of the top facilities in America will be formulated as a result of YOUR patronage.

Don't feed the sea gulls, though. They can eat elsewhere. And we certainly don't want them waiting in the buffet line.

So if you haven't thought about coming, think about thinking about it...then just do it already. Eventually, you'll have to come. Premier parties draw the best crowds. You probably already know someone who has been...just ask them how miserable they were...

Enjoy the day...