This one was different. Just different. I always take time in the quiet that is the CARE building on Sunday after Gateway to really think back over the past day. What went well? What can we do different? What, to be honest, can we do better? How can next year be even more over the top than this year? But, this year was different.
I always arrive at the CARE building on the morning of Gateway around 5:30, and bid it farewell around midnight. I find myself anxious, and to be very honest nervous about the upcoming day.
What did I forget? Is everything in place and ready to go? I walk through the darkness of those four walls and always say a prayer for the day and for all those involved with our festival-those traveling in, those working, those cooking, those performing, and all those attending for a day of fun. And, then it just happens.
Volunteers start to show up with excited smiles. The trucks arrive with the massive stage. Vendors start arriving to their spots. One can smell those funnel cakes. Mayor Smith launches the Fun Run. Class reunion tents start popping up everywhere. Beautiful vintage cars drive into their spots. Pageant beauties and gents start pinning on their numbers with excitement. The microphone turns on, and its go time!
From that moment on, the hustle and bustle of the day can be so overwhelming, but not this year. Our Gateway committee handled every aspect of the day with ease. Their dedication to planning and focus on the day were nothing short of perfection.
Speaking of perfection, the weather was also a blessing for the event. Our sponsors continued to bless us with their donations, not only to provide this wonderful festival, but more importantly to continue to provide this experience for the community. And for that, we are truly grateful.
The lines for kids’ zone and the food trucks stretched into the main fairway, and we heard that the music lineup was the best ever. Our award winners, Tommy Reynolds, Mary Micou, and Ray Clolinger were all surprised, but very deserving as unsung heroes for all of their hard work in Charleston.
Although one might think that the difference was experience, because the “third time is the charm,.” we know that it is really the group of people involved – committee members, vendors, sponsors, volunteers, musicians, and attendees.
I also want to take the time to thank all the businesses (and homeowners, too) in Charleston who decorated with the fall theme in mind. Our town always looks so beautiful during the Gateway to the Delta Festival, and this year was no exception. Thanks to all of you who participated in the decorating contest. You can see the winners here, pictured at the right.
Thank you again to everyone for all you did to make our Gateway to the Delta Festival such a memorable day! And, yes – we have already started to talk about “what can we do to take next year over the top.”
See you at Gateway 2024!
