Thank you to the quiet heroes of the community – Mike Warner

I was on my way to a job site early Saturday morning, headed out to hang windows, when I received a call from one of our loyal and always-friendly Lions Club members. She asked if I could swing by and help set up the big Christmas tree in the middle of the clock tower plaza.
I will be honest, knowing a storm was rolling in and those windows still needed to be installed, I hesitated. But something in me said I had better turn around. They needed help, and as someone finishing my time on the council and stepping into the role of mayor, it felt like the right place to be.
I had never helped with that tree before, kind of embarrassing to admit, considering how many years I have enjoyed seeing it lit up. But as we worked together to stand the tree, string the lights, and hang ornaments on this massive pine, I kept thinking about everything the Lions Club does for this valley. And then my thoughts spread to all the volunteers who make things happen around here.
We all get to enjoy the incredible Independence Day celebration, one of the best in Sanpete and Sevier counties. We enjoy the parade, car show, and we look forward to the Easter Egg Hunt at the park, the Thanksgiving weekend Light Parade, that giant decorated Christmas tree at the plaza, the Santa Run, and Santa’s visit. We enjoy United We March every year. We enjoy Novemberfest. We see little events pop up throughout the year because someone cared enough to organize them. There are many committees for various purposes, donating their time freely. And behind all these efforts are volunteers—business owners, families, and neighbors—donating their time, talents, and often their own money.
These are the unsung heroes of our valley. The people behind the scenes, doing the real work, are often unnoticed and rarely thanked.
As I wrap up my service as a Gunnison City Councilman and step into the role of mayor, I want to give every one of those quiet heroes a sincere and heartfelt thank-you. Thank you for everything you have done—and everything you continue to do—for the people of Gunnison and this entire valley.
Helping decorate that tree this year meant something to me. I have admired it since I was a kid—even back when the tree was down at the city park before we ever had the plaza. This time it was my turn to help set it up so others can enjoy it the same way I always have.
I know everyone is busy. Life moves fast. But when you can, please take the opportunity to step in, lend a hand, and give a little service. These events and traditions do not magically appear. They happen because good people show up.
To those who already do—some of you for years and years—thank you. Truly. The valley appreciates you more than you know.

Sincerely,
Mike Wanner
Gunnison