August 25th THE SIGNATURE

A 15 year pageant-veteran, I know pomp and circumstance. I’ve prepped, I’ve postured, and Lord knows, I’ve held a smile through more than most could bear. And what’s worse, I have a background in politics, too. My goodness, the times I’d whisper quickly in a senator’s ear, “That’s Mrs. So and So and she donated $10,000 to your campaign, sir”. Ah, and then the dance of handshakes, niceties, and obligatory loyalty. I get what ceremony is all about.

This past Saturday, I began preparing for the staging of a dedication ceremony for the Claudia Capps memorial plaque. Newspaper invite, check. Coffee and pastries, check. Chairs set up, check. Plaque nicely displayed, check. Doors open, check. Table arrangements, check. Then, a funny thing happened, I shared a little from my heart, Eugene Vories shared a little bit from his heart, and then all those gathered began to chime in.  Some had their own stories to add, and others wanted to know a little bit more about this tale or that. Eugene’s 94 year-old sister was even there to correct Gene when she needed to!

Folks, you can decorate any gathering to your heart’s desire, but true connection with other human beings cannot be reproduced. You either got it, or you don’t. I am so happy to be living in a community that has “it”. What a good reminder as I look at changes and adjustments for the museum in 2012. There is certainly room for updates and fresh perspectives, but in the end what we really have at Francisco Fort Museum is community, and no display or fancy brochure will ever replicate our genuine relationships. Thanks again to all those who attended on Saturday; you made a difference.