The much-loved British writer Charles Dickens, known for such classics as Great Expectations, A Christmas Carol, and David Copperfield, shared this bit of wisdom – “There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor.”
I am rather confident Charles Dickens, considered by many to be the spokesperson for the poor, would have loved the past few weeks in Todd County. I am rather confident, too, that some are probably sitting on the edges of their seats pondering what in the “Dickens” could be loved in Todd County. However, as a firm believer in the beauties of Todd County and in the many beauties of living in our community, just a few snippets of activities and events in Todd County should bring several smiles and an affirmation our community spirit is indeed alive and well and, of course, smile-bringing.
Those who have taken the time to peruse Facebook in recent weeks will definitely applaud the efforts of the Rotary Club of Elkton as they have taken on two scholarship projects in recent months. One of those projects was the establishment of a Bryan Blount III Memorial Century Club honoring the late Bryan Blount, a Rotarian who would have turned 100 this year and was originally slated to lead the local organization during the 2023-2024 year. The latest figure raised in scholarship monies honoring Mr. Blount through the Century Club effort currently nears $15,000. Glenn Slack, current president of the Rotary Club, shared the Rotarians are determined to reach 150 Century Club members, thus reaching that magical $15,000 goal. Glenn also shared, “The auction, including cash donations and Century Club donors, netted over $35,000.” He also foresees the total raised from both endeavors to hit $37,000. Money generated in these fundraising efforts is geared to provide scholarships for graduates of TCCHS. Again, those two club projects spotlight the results that can be made when Todd Countians and folks from neighboring counties commit themselves to reaching a goal.
Also of note in recent months is the effort underway to rehabilitate the Historic 1835 Courthouse. Folks who have walked around the south side of the building will immediately note the new mahogany door, door transom, and door surround that are almost complete. Inside the Courthouse, the second floor has undergone major cleanup with the existing floor tiles removed as well as most of the stored items on the second floor being removed to allow for future rehabilitation work to occur. Plans are also currently underway to have courtroom benches made so the upstairs can again reflect the “courtroom” that previously existed on the second floor. Plans also include replacement of the doors on the east and west sides once pricing and a builder of the doors are determined.
An article about community spirit would not be complete without mentioning the volunteer efforts of so many people. Sadly, we have had several folks experience the devastation of fires in recent months; however, with each fire that has occurred, firefighters have donned their gear and tackled putting out the fires, another blessing easing the heartache of those suffering through disaster. Add to that the volunteers who assist with so many activities, and we can indeed express our thanks to the many volunteers who devote so many hours and so many talents to making community events so successful. Those events include the Community Easter Egg Hunt Block Party that took place on Saturday, March 30, at Elkton City Park. That event, the second one sponsored by Elkton Baptist Church, saw folks of all ages enjoy hot dogs, 8000 Easter eggs, bouncers, popcorn, games, and prizes. Sharon Grove Community Park also sponsored an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 23. Their event, one geared for folks of all ages, included a variety of games, a photo booth, and a meal to add to the festivities of the day.
Yes, Todd County is a small community; yes, Todd County does not offer all of the many amenities found in larger areas; and, yes, Todd County is not a community of many, many folks. However, Todd County is a community that prides itself on community spirit, and it is indeed a community that many folks are truly pleased and honored to call home. I am confident Charles Dickens would have been honored to visit it, and I am also just as confident he would have been honored to say – “There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor found in Todd County, Kentucky.”
~Article by Carolyn L. Wells
April 8, 2024
