The 57th Jubilee Days Under The Sea festival stands as a beacon of community spirit and dedication, a culmination of meticulous planning and unwavering commitment. This isn't a celebration that springs to life overnight; it's a year-long labor of love, starting with a reflective meeting of the minds where the committee dissects the past event's highs and lows, sharing stories that bind them closer.
As winter's chill gives way to February's thaw, the festival's foundation is laid with the initiation of sponsorship drives and fundraising efforts. It's a period marked by the gathering of forces, as countless individuals and organizations rally to contribute their time, resources, and energy. This collective effort underscores a powerful truth: Jubilee Days is more than an event; it's a testament to the power of community.
The planning phase is a whirlwind of activity, where every detail, no matter how small, is scrutinized and perfected. Chuck Allcorn, a name synonymous with Jubilee Days, leads the charge with a vision that's both ambitious and inclusive. From securing Gatorade and water to keep volunteers hydrated to orchestrating the logistics of the behind-the-scenes of staying in sync with the committees for the Queen, Baby, and Princess contests, Jubilee Little Miss & Junior Miss, the Car and Bike show, turtle races, Food court set up, Entertainment, Karaoke, Piano Man, Mr. Legs contest, bike races, and the 5K run, presenting the John Wiest Award no stone is left unturned.
But it's not just about the events. The festival transforms the town of Warsaw, with tents rising like phoenixes, Port-a-potties lining the streets, and extra trash cans ensuring cleanliness. The city itself becomes a part of the spectacle, with streets vacuumed, lawns groomed, and an atmosphere of anticipation so thick you could cut it with a knife. The buzz of energy that envelops the town is palpable, with children's laughter ringing out as carnival rides ascend skyward, and the air fills with the sweet scents of cotton candy, funnel cakes, and corn dogs.
Behind the scenes, Chuck Allcorn's leadership shines. Having moved to Warsaw 13 years ago, his desire to immerse himself in the community led him to the helm of Jubilee Days, where he wears many hats with pride and dedication. A fun fact about Chuck is his past life as a "Carney" at the Sedalia State Fair, bringing a unique perspective to the festival's operations.
Riding alongside Chuck from the setup to the tear-down of Jubilee Days offers a rare glimpse into the heart of the festival. It's a journey through meticulous attention to detail, from ensuring water and electrical access for vendors to the erection of tents and the setting up of stages and barricades. This behind-the-scenes odyssey reveals the countless organizations and volunteers who pour their souls into the event, too numerous to name but deserving of immense gratitude.
Being Chuck's temporary assistant and right-hand (wo)man during the festival is an experience filled with moments of joy, teamwork, and community spirit. Witnessing the collective effort to keep the festival grounds clean, assist attendees, and ensure everything runs smoothly is a testament to the unity and strength of Warsaw's residents. From the golf cart brigade ferrying people to and from the harbor to the camaraderie shared among all involved, Jubilee Days is more than a festival; it's a celebration of community, dedication, and the enduring spirit of Warsaw.
As we look back on the 57th Jubilee Days, it's clear that this event is not just a highlight on the calendar but a pivotal moment that brings together the best of Warsaw. Thanks to Chuck Allcorn and every single person who played a part, Jubilee Days continues to be a vibrant, unforgettable celebration of community spirit and joy.
