Sean Dengler.

Maybe it was the music and dance overload from the Pitbull concert at the Iowa State Fair, but I also believe the Traer Winding Stairs Festival left me tremendously tired. Coming back to the festival is always fun and seeing all the familiar faces. While in past years I drove the North Tama Dollars for Scholars truck (go and donate to the website right now!), this year was my 15-year reunion. It did not feel like 15 years had passed when talking to my fellow classmates.

Soon it was time to line up the float and bring up the rear of the parade. Never the earliest to an event, but we are always worth an experience. The new parade route due to the construction along the normal route made for an interesting twist. Whether it is the Urbandale 4th of July parade or the Winding Stairs parade, seeing friends, family, and fresh faces dotting the route continued this time-honored tradition of bringing people together.

After the parade, it was time to head down to the balmy festivities. Despite a different calendar year, there were still no clouds, and the sun was beating down. Grabbing a cold one is necessary but not so much for the drink. Holding something cold goes a long way in those steamy conditions. Unfortunately, no bingo was played this year as other parts of the festivities took place. I figured I would not let those old ladies win my money.

Soon enough, it was time to start the Alumni Reunion banquet as the emcee. Seeing parents of those I went to school with throughout the crowd is always a treat. Despite the chattiness of the crowd, it was a fun event. Being chatty is better than not being talkative. This means everyone is happy to be back to catch up with old classmates.

The Traer Class of 1960 was kind enough to let my wife and I eat with them. This was after they watched me squirt mustard on my shirt and shorts. Their graciousness was much appreciated. While I am terrible with names, it was great talking to those who sat at our table. Hearing their stories was a fun experience. We also talked about how the lunchroom used to be the gym. This has been a particular fascination of mine over the years as I have always wondered what it looked like. If anyone has the photos, you know where to find me.

After dipping out of the banquet to let everyone catch up, I enjoyed the nighttime festivities of the band’s music across all genres and years. Having a few Busch Lights while catching up with current and former Traer folks makes the night worth it. I could tell the years are starting to stack up as I appreciated sitting on the picnic tables to prevent my knees from hurting in the morning.

As we headed out from the festivities, it was time for a nightcap at The Junkyard to celebrate the end of a superb evening celebrating Traer and adjacently North Tama. Each year, I always remember memories from yesteryears like helping my grandpa at the Lions Club tent or racing RC cars. This nostalgia coupled with a small-town community coming together to celebrate always holds a special place in my heart. The Winding Stairs Festival is a wonderful event and celebration for the town, and I appreciate those who help put it together. It is much appreciated, and I will see you all next year!

Sean Dengler is a writer, comedian, now-retired beginning farmer, and host of the Pandaring Talk podcast who grew up on a farm between Traer and Dysart. You can reach him at sean.h.dengler@gmail.com.