There are not many times we take to this space to question or congratulate those events in Valley Grande. It is a shortfall we are committed to rectify in the coming weeks and months.

Today, though, the city leadership and event organizers of the annual Independence Day event deserve our thanks and congratulations.

Despite being held on a day where the heat was close to unbearable, hundreds of Valley Grande residents still turned out to enjoy a family atmosphere that is the epitome of communities everywhere.

There were dunking booths, putt putt games, inflatables and food — and yes, we do consider fried candy bars food.

There was a rib cook-off and fireworks, but most of all there was a sense of community that proved to be the perfect kick off to the region’s Fourth of July festivities.

The week before this event, Valley Grande Tom Lee and members of the Valley Grande City Council made it known they do not have plans to run for re-election this August. Most, if not all, did add the caveat that “if the election were held today” they would not run, but reserved the right to jump in at any time.

Valley Grande is a young city, continuing to go through growing pains, but they have done so in solid fashion so far.

While we understand those on the council and Lee want to move on to do different things in their lives, we can only hope that a little sense of what they have accomplished and the way in which they have done so will spread to those on the next council.

While everything the mayor and council have done has not been perfect — and there are those who would highly question their work — last Saturday’s event once again proved that Valley Grande is a proven commodity and a growing community.