“This is it, this is life, so go and have a ball.” Those were the opening lyrics to the hit television series “One Day at a Time” that aired in the late 70s and early 80s. Those lyrics also describe the way many people are feeling as we look to get out and enjoy the world around us.
If you are looking for ideas or venues to attend, I would recommend that you look at the Around Kansas pages in each issue of the Kansas Country Living and the Discover Kansas pages in the magazine’s twice yearly travel issues (May and September). You will find in that section car shows, fishing tournaments, craft fairs, and festivals to attend.
As I think about events and celebrations, the month of June certainly has a big one with Father’s Day. A day to honor the dads started back in the early 1900s but only became a national holiday in 1972 when President Richard Nixon signed it into law. Pops are pretty darn important and play a role in everyone’s life. They are celebrated in movies and TV shows like “Father Knows Best,” “Father of the Bride,” “Father Figures,” and as characters and roles in life such as father-to-be, Father Time, Father Flanagan and Father Mulcahy. Countless terms and names are used relating to the paternal side.
Lots of consternation goes into what gifts to get dads and granddads every year. Neckties, argyle socks, and boxer shorts have over the years been replaced with Bluetooth devices, electronic notepads and rechargeable personal grooming equipment. Father’s Day is the third Sunday in June. In rural America that time of the year aligns really well with wheat harvest, planting, haying, and an abundance of opportunities to stay busy.
Anymore, everyday is a national “you name it” day. Coinciding this year with Father’s Day is none other than National Vanilla Milkshake Day. If dad has plenty of ties and socks, take him a milkshake this year. He will love it.
Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year. Be sure, especially during the summer storm season, to thank the employees of your local electric cooperative for the service they provide keeping our lights on.
Terry Hobbs is the board president for Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. He is also a member of Western Cooperative Electric’s Board of Trustees in WaKeeney.