By Pamela Sweetwood
On Saturday I took advantage of two community activities that I encourage others to partake in next year.
Gamma Phi Circus, one of two collegiate circuses in the country, is such a treat to see. Three shows are squeezed into one weekend in April. The show has so much to see you always wonder where to look. It is mesmerizing.
The performers are students who train all year perfecting their acts. Often participants add skills to their repertoire each year. I, with many others, sat in amazement at their courage, creativity and skill.
Being at the matinee show this year, I found myself intrigued by the set-up during each act – mats being moved, locations of spotters, and how equipment was used. Things are in motion. It was touching to see how the directors were close at hand, pre-checking equipment, running the cables and more.
Despite living here 30 years and often intending to go, last year was my first time at a performance. I will reserve the date each year and use the opportunity to convert others into fans. If you have not been before or it has been awhile, do consider attending next year. You won’t leave disappointed.
After Gamma Phi, I went uptown Normal to the Rock the Block event. There was a sizable crowd, plenty of activity and fantastic music. It had a great vibe. With a friend, we checked out several stores we were unfamiliar with. The shops welcomed the additional traffic. We enjoyed dinner at Medici’s rooftop patio and indulged in a cookie at a newer shop before departing. Even better, United Way promoted volunteerism to younger adults – a volunteer pool very much needed.
In fact last week was National Volunteer Appreciation Week. Volunteers are behind many of the great community resources and events that make Bloomington-Normal a great community to live in. I look forward to discovering even more.
Pamela Sweetwood was an ISU student, like many, who never left town. She works in higher education and has a history with many community non-profits organizations.
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