It Takes a Village
It Takes a Village
By Jackie Muller, President
This month marks the 10th year anniversary of a decade of Festivals at the Falls, in Wappingers Falls New York. And I am grateful for this opportunity to reflect on all that went into making that day happen and celebrating a milestone of a decade of community celebrations.
Over the years, the WFBPA, has worked to bring attention to the local businesses that support our community and give opportunities for the community to come together and celebrate and for the businesses to give back to “OUR COMMUNITY.” Members and local vendors offer their goods or foods for a festive and fun day of gathering in the Messier park, a historic homestead nestled into the heart of the Village of Wappingers Falls. And for a day our sleepy little town comes alive.
Planning starts in January, from going to board meetings and getting permissions, booking entertainment, and rallying support of other community agencies, all details carefully curated and crafted. Insurance purchased, licenses verified, park layout and mapping participants for weeks to make sure to highlight sponsors, members and then other local makers. Marking the park with no small feet takes several volunteers the night before, and clean up throughout the day and after the way after all the fun has been packed up and carted away continues into the night. All this organizing from volunteers to vendors done by volunteers, some business owners themselves and other retired or simply interested citizens goes into making that one day a success.
Leading up to the big day, arranging opportunities for businesses to advertise and interview with Southern Dutchess News. Getting parking permissions with local organizations with parking lots: Shout out to Zion Church, Southern Dutchess News, and Knights of Columbus, and so much more goes into this annual event, and every minute is in preparation and anticipation of the big day.
Special Thank you to our BOARD your dedication and commitment is not unnoticed. There is no I in “team” and you all helped to make this happen. Without your volunteerism it would not have been. In case no one told you, a million thank yous.
Special thanks to the WFPD and WFFD and to our supporters year after year, Zion Church, Southern Dutchess News, and Knights of Columbus. You are all the model of “It Takes a Village.” And as Wappingers Falls has proven time and time again our bones are in the century old organizations that are the backbone of everything that is Wappingers Falls.
Additionally we thank our sponsors, without you we could not bring the enrichment to our quaint town. Watching families enjoy entertainment, a local day to explore vendors and children bouncing their little hearts out are all because of your support. Your support of our efforts is greatly appreciated.
SPONSORS:
Tompkins Bank
MoldTec
EMPOWERED BY NATURE
Salt Boutique Labs
Freer Landscaping
Beautiful Balloons
Thryv
Servpro
Every Task
The Jessica Experience
Sensory Stepping Stones
Full Circle Veterinary Hospital
Companion Insurance Agency
DCH Wappingers Falls Toyota
Mercedes Benz of WF
Dynamic Intervention Wellness Solutions
The acknowledgements could go on and on, and if you know you know that you are all a part of this wonderful tradition and form the WFBPA a big thank you and see you next year!
OPPORTUNITY:
