By Ted Smith

Contributing Columnist

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In just a matter of days, we will say good-bye to September and usher in October. Sounds almost unbelievable, right? What a whirlwind world we live in. I have reached the conclusion that our belief of time seeming to fly is caused by simple anticipation.

Everywhere one seems to go, the general public is eagerly awaiting (or anticipating) the next greatest moment in their life. I find it interesting when I watch my children, as well as my grandchildren, as they cope with the anticipation of their busy lives, and I find myself wishing there was just some way I could get everyone (myself included) to see and understand there is so much in life we are missing. If only we could slow down and thoroughly enjoy the moments we are rushing through just to get to our next moment of anticipation. Now, please note that I said I “wished.” You see, I am just like everybody else.

Anticipation seems to be a part of our makeup, and that is not a bad thing. It is what causes mankind to explore and invent new things to help make our world easier to live in and enjoy. The automobile, airplanes, electricity, telephones, computers, just to name a few, probably would not have come about if it were not for mankind seeking to improve on a situation. So, I am resigned in my belief that

Anticipation is what causes each of us to reach for what is next in life. Consider this: in just a few days, after a year of planning and promoting, the City of Newberry will proudly present “Oktoberfest 2015.” On Saturday, October 3, city workers will get up early (about 5 a.m.) and block off Main Street, as well as parts of Caldwell, Boyce, and McKibben Streets. Crews will decorate, assemble stages, tents, traffic signs, etc., and they do all this to welcome everyone to a wonderful celebration honoring our German predecessors.

I will assure you that Newberry shop owners, civic organizations, the City of Newberry leaders and employees, as well as your Chamber members are anticipating this day. I certainly hope you, too, are filled with anticipation as we all await Saturday, October 3rd, and while attending Oktoberfest, why not stop and say, “Hello,” to your Newberry County Chamber of Commerce representatives.

Michael Tracey, Liz MacDonald, Michelle Long, and I will be here throughout the day, so stop and let us tell you what we do here at your Visitors Center, and we will update you on the many benefits awaiting you simply by becoming a Chamber member.

We anticipate your visit. Come help us celebrate a great Oktoberfest.

Ted Smith is executive director of the Newberry Chamber of Commerce. Contact him at ted@newberrycounty.org.