As I continue stepping into the tradition of writing the Elm Grove Echoes column, I need to begin this week with a correction and an apology. In my previous column, I wrote about how I was honored to be writing the column that “Irene Cummings” so faithfully wrote each week. I was, however, remiss in that remark. Looking back through the articles, I was reminded that at the top of her column, she proudly listed her name as, “Mrs. J.P. Cummings,” as was common during that time. Personally, I love that old tradition.
Can you answer some Elm Grove trivia with just a little information from one of Mrs. Cummings articles? Here is hint number one: As I read one of Mrs. Cummings’ old columns, one item especially caught my attention as being a timely tidbit. In this article, she wrote about the upcoming Elm Grove Volunteer Fire Department fundraiser “Saturday night, June 11th, at the fire station,” adding that there would be “plenty of room because the fire station had recently been enlarged.” Do you know what year that might have been?
Reading those words was a reminder that while times may change, the heart of Elm Grove has stayed much the same — neighbors gathering to support one another and the community they love. With that same spirit in mind, everyone is invited to this year’s Elm Grove Volunteer Fire Department Fish Fry and Fundraiser on Saturday, June 13th, beginning at 5 p.m. There will be an auction and a raffle (more in the next column); for more information or to purchase tickets, you may contact Doug Chapman at 325-792-6431.
There are few causes that are more important in a rural community than supporting our volunteer fire department and volunteer firefighters. Every dollar raised helps provide equipment, training, and resources for the men and women who stand ready to answer calls at all hours, protecting our homes, land, livestock, and families. Supporting the Elm Grove Volunteer Fire Department is truly an investment in the safety and future of our community.
Now on to trivia hint number two: In her article, Mrs. Cummings also mentioned traveling with “our bunch” to San Angelo for Sophia’s first birthday party. She said there were 14 guests at a backyard BBQ. Do you know the year? First reader to text me the year that article was written will be mentioned in next week’s column and if I see you in town, I’ll buy ya a Sonic drink! (hhmm should we limit the prize to only non-family members???) :) In closing this week, I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has called and texted with words of encouragement after reading last week’s column. Your kindness and support have meant more to me than you know. It has been such a blessing to hear how much this little piece of community history and fellowship means to so many people, and I truly appreciate each and every one of you.
Rhonda Wyatt 830-305-9908 rhondajwyatt@gmail.com I would love it if you would share your family news/community events so that I can add them to my next article!