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May Flowers Bring Summer Fun!

by Brian Buethe, President | CEO, Grimes Chamber & Economic Development

May 2022 Newsletter Article

Just about everyone has heard the timeless phrase “April showers bring May flowers.”  Per a three-minute research session, it appears that the origin of the phrase dates back to an English poet names Thomas Tusser. He wrote “Sweet April showers do spring May Flowers.” He lived in the 1500’s, so the saying has been around in one form or another for a long time. I suspect that it has staying power because, not only does it rhyme, but rings true most years, at least in Grimes, Iowa.

 

Now that April is in the rear-view mirror, what comes next. Here at Grimes Chamber & Economic Development, when the calendar flips to May, we start thinking summer. More specifically, a lot of our time, energy, and attention is focused on an event that takes place in early June. Grimes Governors Days is scheduled to take place June 9th-11th in 2022. Those of you who have been around for awhile know that this means for a few days, our community will have the opportunity to welcome a carnival (Sam’s Amusements), enjoy parades, participate in the 5k/Fun Run (organized by the DC-G Education Foundation and Athletico), watch kids square off in a Pedal Pull Contest, see talented youth perform in the Bill Reilly Talent Show (organized by Inspiring Dance), and more.

 

In the Entertainment Garden (sponsored by Raccoon Valley Bank and staffed by a lot of wonderful volunteers), there will be a variety of offerings. Aftershock will be on the Home Base Grimes Stage on Friday evening. They describe themselves as a “South Jersey cover band doing a little bit of everything – rock, pop, country and hip-hop. Saturday afternoon will include the annual MS Moments Bags Tournament, which is a fun time for everyone regardless of experience. Saturday evening, the festival will close with a performance by Pianopalooza Dueling Pianos featuring Tony Bohnenkamp and Jerry Lorenson.

 

The full schedule of events, which is always subject to change, can be found at www.GovernorsDays.com.  This is where you can also see a complete list of sponsors, whom through their generosity make it possible to hold this festival. It is a wonderful opportunity for neighbors to meet neighbors and people to learn what businesses, not only exist in our community, but are actively investing to improve our quality of life.

 

The biggest news surrounding the festival this year is that it will have a NEW LOCATION.  Traditionally held in Waterworks Park, Governors Days will take place at the South Sports Complex this year, which is generally located at 750 S James Street. We’re fine with the move, because it is necessary to make the new Grimes splash pad a reality, which will be a great new amenity for the community. We’ll do the best we can to make the transition a smooth one.

April showers have led us to May flowers, which will lead us to a great kickoff to summer. On behalf of Inspiring Dance (Presenting Sponsor), other festival sponsors, and all of the members of Grimes Chamber & Economic Development, we look forward to a great time at this years Governors Days; A Funtastic Event!

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