And There Were Streetlights

And There Were Streetlights
By Charles Chandler

Early last Thursday morning four Consumer Energy work crews arrived in White Cloud and began restoring the City street lights. After six years of darkness a feeling of cautious anticipation begin building throughout the City.  The excitement grew with each report that the Consumers Crews were finishing up a particular block or street and by mid afternoon the emails went out stating that “the community is planning a celebration tonight and that our local restaurants and business are offering discounts and deals and all are invited.”
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The celebration was held at the corner of Wilcox...

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... and Charles in the parking lot between the newly opened Antique Shop and Rosenberg’s Hardware.  It appears that White Cloud resident Julie Burgess and employees at Family Health Care organized this impromptu block party.  

Around 7:30 P.M the crowd began gathering, there were warm greetings with hugs and handshakes, and smiles and smiley faces on the kids, dogs being petted and even a rare albino ferret made an appearance. Everyone was delighted to see Dottie Rosenberg, one of the City’s favorite folks, enjoying the gathering.

As advertised there was cotton candy, pizza, and free hot dogs from Hitts the Spot Restaurant as well as some delightful petite cupcakes courtesy of Julie.  The Fox 17 News Crew was there interviewing Mayor Barnhard, Julie and other residents.

Finally about 10:00 P.M. everyone gathered along main street sidewalk to watch the lights return.   It was one of those perfect small town moments when complaints and differences are forgotten and everyone comes together to celebrate their common bonds.  The sun’s light was fading, people were in small groups quietly chatting, the American Flags were waving on light post and the random starburst from fireworks were followed by a few distant dog barks.  

Then the streetlights flickered and brightened to the chorus of a gentle applause from an appreciative citizenry.
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Shine on White Cloud.