Disappointing lack of community participation

By Editor | May 5, 2023 |

Equality & Nixburg News
Jennifer Williamson

I believe that the folks at 121 Disposal (the new garbage pickup service for Coosa County) are getting the hang of things. In Equality the truck came through Friday, April 28, and picked up all the cans that were out.

Hopefully, this will continue throughout their contract period! We, as well as many of our neighbors, did receive a refund from GFL (the former garbage collection provider) for the prepaid services that they canceled. So, so far, so good, regarding the local trash issues.
This past week, as I went to water the plants at Rodger’s Shrubbery, I noticed a fox crossing County Road 33. Since then, I have been missing a young hen that I had affectionately named “Ms. Lacyfeathers.” I am hoping that she has just become “broody” and is sitting on a hidden nest somewhere, rather than that she became dinner for a fox.

I only have three hens, “Ms. Little Red Hen,” “Ms. Barred Rock” and “Ms. Lacyfeathers.” The fact that I have named them means that they are more than just egg layers to me, and thus losing one is a blow.
While there are many things to love about our corner of Coosa County, I have been both frustrated and disappointed regarding a certain aspect, a lack of community participation. I know that some; either because of age, disability, lack of transportation, etc.; are unable to get out of and away from their home. And of course, there are many that after working their job for a full day, come home and then feed and care for their children. But there are still many regular able-bodied people that live in our community and simply opt to stay at home and watch TV instead of attending, or participating in, community-sponsored events.
This lack of participation is seen throughout the community, including volunteer opportunities; even if you do not have time to give, how about a simple donation, such as baked goods for the bake sale on a First Saturday. Even a simple dump cake would go a long way. Or, stopping by any of the shops to see what is offered locally before heading outside our community to a box store. You never know “if” they do not have it unless you stop and look inside first.

“If” they do not have your item on hand, they might be willing to add it to their inventory to be available the next time you may need that certain item. If for no other reason, just step in and say hello, because being a part of the community is about getting to know all your neighbors.

If patronizing a local small business is not your thing, then consider visiting one of the free community events offered by the EPAC. In addition to offering quality entertainment, with a free potluck layout of food, you will also get to meet the other members of our community who one day might just have your back for you when you’re down.
Speaking of the Equality Performing Arts Center (EPAC), there is no event tonight as it is first Friday (and our regularly scheduled date night). The second Friday, May 12’s, usual open mic night has been CANCELED, as we will be away attending the funeral of a very dear friend.

The next event will be karaoke on the third Friday, May 19. While it is not mandatory, you are encouraged to bring a dish of shareable food, and if you can afford to drop something into the donation jar for the music, it helps keep the lights on. The EPAC provides free coffee, iced tea, water, and fresh-popped popcorn.
I know that I mention the Equality Volunteer Fire Department (EVFD) every week, but I do so for the simple reason that they are absolutely needed by our community. There are fundraising tickets now available for pork ribs and pork butts for Memorial weekend. You can contact a board member or come by tomorrow, Saturday, May 6, the “First Saturday” of May during their monthly fundraising event. Boston butts are $35, and ribs are $30.
Speaking of the monthly fundraising event, EVFD needs volunteers each month to help with their first Saturday event, and if you cannot be there, they still need cakes donated to the cake sale each first Saturday. Do not forget, everyone is welcome to attend their first and third Monday training meetings, even if only to just watch the firefighters do their training.
Also, still regarding fundraising, my husband, Rodger, is seeking donations to sponsor his efforts with this year’s “Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride.” The DGR is an annual worldwide event, done in conjunction with the “Movember Foundation,” to raise funds for, and awareness for, prostate cancer and men’s mental health. Additional information and donations can be made at: www.gfolk.me/AlaBeemer.

I depend upon my readers to share with me what is happening within your organizations, churches, neighborhoods, groups, or family to share in next week’s column. Please contact me; call or text 256-531-6460 or email at coosacafe@gmail.com.

Posted in Community