John’s previous quote about the Shelby visitation was interesting
for a variety of reasons. Though Livermush isn’t on most people’s
list of desirable edible fare, Shelby has figured out how to make it an
economic development tool. People come from miles around to enjoy
a unique festival dedicated to a questionable food.
I received my
“personal” invitation to the Festival while in Shelby but took a
raincheck to build my tolerance up first. Oh, and there were no
incentives involved in the creation of the festival. Also of
worth, Live At Five events have traditionally begun as the result of
the Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees), not to be confused with
actual Chambers that typically like incentives and downtown
redevelopment. The Jaycees are a young person’s leadership
organization comprised of VOLUNTEERS, a dying breed to be sure.
Having been in the Jaycees for about 12 years now, it’s nice to
see traditions like this continue. The Jaycees also started the
“Live After Five” events in Hickory and downtown Raleigh.
