Panorama Days wrapped up this past weekend, and what a ride it was.
The festivities got off to a soggy start Friday evening as rain and wind crashed the party. Fortunately, Erica Matthies and the Panorama Days planning committee were ready. They made Pivot No. 1, moving the evening activities indoors to the Owl’s Nest, including the announcement of Citizen of the Year.
That honor went to Andy Randol, and it is difficult to imagine a more deserving recipient. Few people have done as much for Panora and Lake Panorama as Andy, both professionally and personally. Around here, meaningful community projects usually involve Andy somewhere along the way. There is a good reason for that. He has a remarkable ability to listen, offer thoughtful advice and quietly help get things done. He has helped me more than once, and I know many others could say the same. Congratulations, Andy. You have certainly earned it.
Saturday’s parade once again proved why it is the signature event of Panorama Days. Fire trucks rolled by. Race cars rumbled through town. Confetti floated through the air. Children darted from curb to curb in pursuit of enough candy to keep local dentists employed through Christmas. It is impossible to leave that parade without smiling — or checking your shoes for Tootsie Rolls.
Mother Nature was not quite finished, though. The Lake Panorama Ski Show was scheduled for Saturday afternoon, but high winds made performing too dangerous. That led to Pivot No. 2. The show moved to Sunday, when blue skies and calmer water finally gave those talented skiers the stage they deserved. It was warm along the south shore, but longtime spectators know sunshine is simply part of the ticket price.
One of the biggest surprises of the weekend was the car show. I cannot remember seeing so many beautifully restored classics and customs gathered in one place. Roger Dorr deserves tremendous credit for making it happen. He promoted the event relentlessly, personally reached out to car clubs and convinced owners to make the trip. A little sunshine certainly helped, but Roger’s effort put those gleaming chrome bumpers on Main Street.
The fishing derby was another highlight, thanks to Scott Stanley and the Fin and Feather organization. It remains one of the best ways to connect the lake with the community while introducing young anglers to a pastime they can enjoy for a lifetime.
Of course, Panorama Days is much bigger than any one event or one volunteer. It succeeds because dozens of people quietly spend countless hours planning, organizing and, when necessary, improvising. Festivals are easy to enjoy but difficult to produce. This year’s proved that the best community events are not defined by perfect weather. They are defined by dedicated people who refuse to let a few storm clouds rain on everyone else’s parade.
Have a terrific Tuesday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher
Times Vedette digital newsletter
shane@gctimesnews.com
641-332-2707