It’s the second weekend of June. In small towns all across America it means the same thing — graduation.
There’s something special about growing up in a small town. I have three grown children who spent their entire elementary, middle and high school years only in Ocean Shores. In fact, my children’s grandparents both graduated from North Beach High School in 1970.
There’s something wonderful that happens every year at graduation time. Everyone knows the kids graduating. It feels like the whole community comes together in celebration. We all feel connected to the kids and family in some way. You might remember them from the local Girl Scout troop or at school plays. You may have seen them in the paper for good grades or student of the month. Maybe you attended a dance recital or football game and watched them play. They’ve mowed your lawns and bagged your groceries. More than likely, they waited on you at dinner or bussed your table.
However you have crossed paths, you may know a few of the class of eager graduates each year. Maybe, without knowing, you’ve helped with their success. By buying their cookies and helping to support them trying new things. You may have cheered them on at a sporting event, contributing to the pride they felt when they took the field with their hometown cheering. Maybe you had a kind word when they bagged your groceries and you brightened a rough day. That tip you left for your dinner could have helped a girl buy her prom dress and create lifelong memories.
So this week during the hustle and bustle of graduation preparation, take a minute to congratulate a senior. Maybe even attend graduation (this year at 5 p.m. at the Ocean Shores Convention Center June 10) and cheer for them one more time. Because after all, in a small town we’ve all contributed even in small ways to the next generation of graduates. And we can share in their pride.
Besides graduation there is so much happening next week on the beach. On Saturday beginning at 11 a.m. is the annual Flag Day Parade. Bands, floats, clubs, Pirates and more. The parade travels down Point Brown Avenue and turns on Chance a la Mer past the Convention Center. Line the streets and wear your red, white and blue.
How about something for you early birds and beach lovers? An early morning tidal pool adventure will be led by Naturalist Steve Green. Low tide is at 7:30 a.m. Meet Steve at the Village Square at Oyhut Bay and plan for a morning of learning looking and fun. He’s a knowledgeable and entertaining expert. $15
For the night owls, The Brothers Rowe are playing in the Ocean Lounge at the QBRC from 9-1 to dance the night away.
Remember graduation Saturday evening. Cheer the kids on as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives. They’ll be grateful. There’s no better place to grow up than in a small town. Especially “On the Beach .“
Submission considerations to onebusibee@outlook.com
