By Joel van der Veen
DAVIDSON — If there’s one thing new arrivals to town have all noticed, it’s the waving.
Mary Beeson, who arrived in December, said she’s frequently been on the receiving end of waves from other Davidson residents, which sets the town apart and also serves as a good memory test.
“You think, ‘Do I know that guy?’,” said Beeson, adding that it’s part of the town’s nature. “People are a lot friendlier.”
Tariq Islam, who arrived here from Bangladesh on June 1, similarly observed how Davidson folks are quick to greet each other.
Though a recent arrival, he said he has already made friends among his neighbours at the Wheatland Apartments and his co-workers at Panther Industries.
It seems natural, given the town’s reputation, that its churches have made a tradition of hosting an annual event to meet and welcome newcomers.
Davidson’s Fall Family Friendship Night was held Wednesday night at the Sacred Heart parish hall, drawing about 70 people. This included recent arrivals as well as organizers and longtime residents.
Members of the Davidson Inter-Church Association take turns organizing the event, first held in 1993. This year,
Davidson Community Bible Church (DCBC) and Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church kept things running smoothly.
DCBC pastor Lucas Branstetter was the evening’s emcee. Cookies and beverages were served, and organizers Dana Gayle Dahl and Lana Schmiedge introduced the newcomers.
Prizes for adults and children were given away in draws, while information on local programs, services and attractions was offered on a back table.
Mayor Clayton Schneider welcomed everyone, speaking briefly on how Davidson has bucked the trend of small-town decline with growing business and increased school enrollment.
Eight of the “Ukeladies” performed for the crowd, singing several songs while accompanying themselves on ukeleles. Sandra Zoerb introduced the group, acknowledging that the concept sounds like “something from Laugh-In.”
A worship band from DCBC then took the stage and played several Christian praise songs. Branstetter joked that organizers had tried to hire AC/DC, but there was some confusion with the booking agent.
Around 30 newcomers, including families, couples and singles, were invited. Of those, about 10 attended on Wednesday night.
Lana Schmiedge said this was a smaller number than in previous years, but added that organizers were pleased with the response regardless.
“We had lots of community people come out to welcome our newcomers,” she said. “I think we had a good turnout.”
For the full story, please see the Oct. 26 edition of The Davidson Leader.