It was a bittersweet moment for those of us in attendance as well as for the lady who we were all there to honor…

A small “farewell” party was organized Friday evening for Grace Jakubs, who recently sold her home and is headed back to Chicago-area Cold Country to be near her family.

It was two years ago that her beloved husband Frank suddenly passed away, leaving Grace with a big emotional hole to fill and a big house to occupy.

Grace, much like her husband, had volunteered for many causes in Fountain Hills and the Valley.

While many of us in the Hills will miss her presence (the “bitter” part), we also know that she will remain active and smart and beautiful and opinionated for years and years to come (the “sweet” part).

Folks like the Jakubs made Fountain Hills a better place to live, and we thank them for their service and dedication. Grace, we love you and will miss your kindness and generosity.

* * *

Juan Gonzalez was stunned when former Mayor Jay Schlum hit the button to reveal the next slide on the PowerPoint presentation showing that the Mexican restaurant owner had indeed been named the Chamber’s Business Person of the Year honoree.

I had the good fortune to be sitting next to him during the awards dinner Saturday evening.

A few seconds lapsed as the guy took it all in, realizing suddenly he was in the spotlight.

Juan is a humble man who does not take his success for granted, nor does he ever forget his roots and his family upbringing.

To be operating two successful restaurants in Fountain Hills is quite the accomplishment, and Juan’s business acumen is unparalleled.

The list of past honorees by the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce is indeed impressive, and Juan is certainly worthy of the honor and deserves to be on that list.

Felicidades!

* * *

Staging and set-up that started late last week for the Chinese Lantern and Folk Festival certainly has created a buzz around town – not all of it positive, either.

Some have taken umbrage to the large fence erected, some walking areas being blocked in Fountain Park and the price of adult admission ($12).

While many residents have grown accustomed to free events in the park and elsewhere in town, history also tells us that these types of events cost a lot of money to stage.

Even smaller events such as the two-day Oktoberfest and past two Fourth of July festivities have required $5 admission fees to help cover expenses.

Fencing, lighting, stages, security, trash, porta-potties, insurance, etc., etc. are all real expenses that add up in a hurry.

Let’s see how the festival goes and then we can evaluate the facts as they are…