Munson Honored At New Sharon Spring Festival
Ralphi Munson smiles during the 2018 New Sharon Spring Festival Parade. She was honored by her community as Citizen of the Year.
New Sharon, Iowa – The town of New Sharon knows how to throw a party, and over the weekend the community and its neighbors came out to celebrate community.
Ralphi Munson is one of those individuals you often see involved in community events or encouraging her neighbor, and the New Sharon community recognized her during the spring festival as Citizen of the Year.
Munson said she was “totally shocked” at the recognition. “There are so many incredible people in this community who are so much more deserving, and I felt guilty taking away from all they do. I would also like to acknowledge Sara Hicklin’s courage to speak about her sons in front of so many people. Having her there made this honor so much more personal and special. New Sharon has suffered the loss of too many children, and I believe that is one of the biggest reasons our community is so strong. We have come together for their families and realized what truly matters in life.”
New Sharon has been experiencing a resurgence as of late and bucking the trend that has many communities withering up.
Munson has her own idea as to why the community is once again on the map. “I tend to want it to go backwards to the simpler days, and I think New Sharon is about as close to that as you can get. It was inspiring to see people all congregate for fellowship, food, fun, and making new friends.”
Munson also recognized the hard work the New Sharon Spring Festival Committee did to put on the days’ long celebration as “beyond amazing! They have planned activities and events for every age group to enjoy. Just seeing that many people in our city park, at our football field for the free movie and Jace Race, and lining the streets for the parade brought tears to my eyes.”
“We can’t say enough about all of the work, time, and commitment the Spring Festival committee put into this one weekend that is meant to celebrate the people of our town. And the community showed up to show their appreciation. We are so blessed with everyone, both young and old, who live here. They are truly cherished,” said Munson in closing.
