Former Batavian shares stories about beloved pastor
Former Batavian Patty Vest Mugavero has penned a beautifully written recollection about the Rev. Gilbert Johnstone, a former pastor at First Baptist Church.
The much-loved pastor served in various capacities in the community; he was instrumental in getting the churches together and volunteered as the chaplain for the fire department for many years. He was also the driving force behind the creation of the Valley Sheltered Workshop.
Mugavero has donated a copy to the Depot Museum for those who are interested in this part of our history. What a gift when people take the time to research and write an account of the history of our fair city.
Flag Day events
Soap box race: Have you built your soap box car for the Flag Day celebration yet? If you are planning to compete in the soap box car race, now is the time to start putting that car together.
“This is not a sanctioned race,” said Peter Lowe, one of the race organizers. “It can be as simple as a box with wheels and a steering wheel.”
Maybe it is time to get out the old “Our Gang” comedies and see how Alfalfa built his.
The race takes place on the afternoon of Sunday, June 12. Immediately following is the formation of the Human Flag in honor of the 100th anniversary of the proclamation of Flag Day.
Essay contest: It's also time to answer the question, “What the American Flag Means to Me.” The essay contest is open to writers of all ages, from children in kindergarten through high school to adult, senior and professional writers. There is a cash award in each category and plenty of bragging rights
You don't need to live in Batavia to enter. All of the essays will be preserved at the Depot Museum. Entry deadline is Monday, May 30, or postmarked by May 29. Visit bataviaflagday.com/essay-contest/ for details.
Batavia marketplace: The Flag Day Ice Cream Social on June 12 also features a Red White and Blue market. So if you are a crafter, think about creating a patriotic item or an item that says Batavia.
Newcomers Chris and Mary Ginder creators of Gindo's Hot Sauces, will be sampling their sauces and displaying a special one for Flag Day as well. This would be a great opportunity to pick up some gifts for those who just moved to Batavia or are moving away from town.
“Our back labels do say ‘Manufactured for Gindo's Spice of Life, Batavia, IL 60510.'” said Mary Ginder. “Our sauces are really so much more than hot sauce. We use blends of fresh sweet and spicy peppers and carefully curated sea salts,”
If you can't wait until June 12, the sauces are available at the Blue Goose in St. Charles. The popular grocery is opening a Batavia store in 2017, but they are already involved in the community providing hot dogs and cookies for the June 12 event.
It's great to see those who are new to the community get involved in community events. The Ginders moved here from Los Angeles and relocated their business here.
“We've grown fond of this area for its rich character and history,” said Mary. “Plus there's something about living close to water that we love, and while it's not the ocean we're used to, the river has a certain energy that is good for the soul.”
For more details on Flag Day, visit www.bataviaflagday.com.