My arrival to my USA home was full of glee, from my mom and older brother to even my mom’s dog, Bridget, one of my street rescues from China.

But the greatest welcome came from my small town.

A Special Friday Night Evening

“Connie, you’re back!”

At almost every turn, as I walked the town square a week ago Friday night, numerous people greeted me with smiles, surprised expressions, hugs and sit-downs for chatting.

Why so many out and about in downtown Marshall, my hometown for 4,000 people?

It was my town’s National Road Night.

The National Road was the United States’ first highway in my country to be built by the US government. This road was built from 1833 – 1856, from the east coast of America to my hometown area, over 591 miles (951 km). It went straight through my hometown and is still used today in America. Over a week ago, my town celebrated this highway. We had the National Road Day celebrations which are held every year.

There were numerous activities all around the courthouse.

The Marshall high school cheerleading squad painted faces and handed out twisty balloons of various favorite animals and shapes to all the kids.

Bouncy houses and slides dotted the courthouse grass lawn.

Our police and emergency rescue vehicles were present for “Touch-a-Truck”. (For my Laos readers, Touch-a-Truck events are defined as community gatherings where children and adults can explore and interact with various types of vehicles, including construction equipment, emergency vehicles and more. The events offer a hands-on experience, allowing attendees to climb inside, touch, and learn about different trucks and the people who operate them.)

You’ll notice a helicopter included below. No touching the county’s emergency helicopter but it did take-offs and landings after flitting about the town as a means of showing what it had to offer our community for policing the town.

The Lion’s Club popcorn wagon was busy handing out free popcorn to all who wanted it.

An ice cream social by the Marshall Optimist Club had their yearly fundraiser, selling pieces of pie, cake and ice cream to those wishing a great dessert at a very reasonable price.

The Biggest Draw for National Road Night

The highlight of the evening’s entertainment, our summer weekly city band concert. The Marshall City Band is celebrating its 150th year. The Marshall city band began in 1875 and was originally formed by men who had musical talent and a wish to start a band. What was just a few men 150 years ago has over the years blossomed into numerous community residents and alums of our Marshall high school band, people of all ages, who enjoy playing all summer and for special events. For 150 years, the Marshall City Band has been going strong. It’s currently under the direction of Heather Setzer, our Marshall High School band teacher. So many came out that night for a great showing of our local talents to enjoy good music, good company and an all-round good community vibe. As you can see below, this was a spectacular event and welcome back for me, having just landed from Laos.

While the in-person was so much better, here’s the best I can do to share with you via pictures. Enjoy! You know I did.