What could possibly top being hit by a monsoon while setting up for the fireworks at the fairgrounds on July 3rd? How about baking in the parade line on July 4th? Was it worth it?? You bet.

This whole campaign experience has been just that - an experience.

The American Spirit was alive and well in all those brave souls who remained out in the torrential rains that hit the fairgrounds July 3rd. Thanks to the strong gust of wind, booths were deciding to take up residence down the street from where they started, and the people setting up the booths were now finding themselves unwilling participants in an unplanned Forsyth County wet T-shirt competition. Those who chose to brave the elements were overjoyed later at the turnout. The rain stopped and the people came.

Was it worth it? You bet.

Anyone who had thoughts that due to Mother Nature it might be slow at the fairgrounds on the 3rd changed their minds when they spotted the crowd at Charlie Laughinghouse’s booth. There was not a moment to take a breath much less a potty break. Even with the numerous volunteers, it was difficult to keep up with the demand to talk to Charlie about the issues, pass out balloons and Charlie Beads (Red White and Blue Beads for the 4th which represent the problems facing Forsyth County; Roads, Water and Building). By the time the fireworks hit, the balloons left were few in number, the helium tanks were empty, fingers were exhausted from tying knots and over a thousand beads had been passed out and were being worn proudly by people to show their support for Charlie.

Was it worth it? You bet.

Monday was a warm up for the parade on the 4th. By 8:30 A.M., the parking lot at Forsyth Central High School was a Float assembly site. Dozens of Charlie supporters appeared to help decorate. Many rode on the float, throwing out thousands of Charlie Beads (the hit of the Parade) as well as candy. Mother Nature decided she had delivered enough rain the night before and so those on board the float treated the watchers and each other to a dosing of cool water from their super soakers. A dozen or more brave volunteers chose to walk the parade route in the heat. Mr. Nick Woodhead drove Charlie in his classic Morgan Roadster in the parade. At the end of the parade route, Hi-fives, rousing cheers and Hugs were passed out.

Was it worth it? You bet.

Now the fireworks at the fairgrounds are over. I’m sure there will be fireworks continuing throughout this campaign. Now is the time when the mailboxes will be flooded with literature containing negative things and outright lies about other candidates. I think we’ve had enough of this type of campaigning. Remember to VOTE on Tuesday, July 18th. When you make that little bit of extra effort to:

Vote early July 10th -14th
Get up a few minutes early to go and vote
Or use a few minutes from lunch to go vote for Charlie Laughinghouse

....and then later when you are asked, “Was it worth it?” you too can answer YOU BET!!