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a time in my life that I cherish.
Viroqua in the 1950s. It was a kinder, less stressful time that valued community, and children, and invested time, treasure and effort to improving the quality of life for all people, but especially seemed to value kids.
Growing up in Viroqua, my family and I lived just a block from the Viroqua Dairy, which was then a very popular hang out for local youth. It featured its own home-made ice cream, with 5-cent cones and unbelievable shakes and malts, and had an attached bowling alley that provided both recreation and a part-time job opportunity for youngsters eager to earn some money setting pins.
Rubes Drive-In was another popular hangout, and as teenagers able to drive, we flocked to Rubes to check out the carhops who were always attractive, friendly and outgoing.
Johnson’s Rexall Drug Store was another very popular after school hangout that offered a soda fountain, and 25-cent hot fudge sundaes to die for, as well as cokes and malts; everyone went there after school.
The city fathers really valued our community and youth. The old Dawson lot, which now is the location of the hospital and clinic, provided us with a huge playing field, and many football games were played there as well as other sports. City fathers provided us with an outdoor ice-skating rink and a fine library.
A private golf course was made available to kids. I felt very fortunate to have been encouraged by friends and a local businessman to play. I caddied for members, and they allowed me access to play without payment and were generous to all of us who caddied.
We learned as kids from the adults we interacted with; employers, teachers, business people and our legislative representatives, and family, who provided models for us, and in many ways communicated a sense of caring, and interest in what we were doing.
They gave of their time, talents and money to help us and the community in general. They provided a model for giving back to community, which continues to this day.
Viroqua and its citizens are recipients of the continuing efforts of way too many people to name in this column. They contribute to a growing, developing, improving community that includes a restored Temple Theatre; an indoor aquatic center; an indoor ice arena, and educational opportunities, both public and private, of superior quality; and a health care system that includes a broad spectrum of health care professionals.
Viroqua Foundation members work tirelessly and are currently finishing a sports complex to serve the community that includes a walking/running track, tennis courts and football field.
Chuck Young is one of 13 Tribune Community Columnists, whose writing appears on the Sunday Opinion pages.
