The Ripon Rabbit
Ripon, Wisconsin is a community that truly embodies the phrase “small town charm.” It’s a place where neighbors know each other by name, kids ride their bikes to the local ice cream shop, and the community comes together to support one another in times of need. But what truly sets Ripon apart is the people who live here – There are many individuals who genuinely care about what goes on in their town, and who work tirelessly to ensure that it remains a vibrant and thriving place for generations to come. These are the people who get nothing in return for it.
The satire article that was posted regarding the award for the 2023 selfishness of the Ripon community last month is a humorous take on the actions of a select few individuals who are perceived to not have the best interests of the community in mind. In reality, Ripon is full of unselfish individuals who are indeed dedicated to the well-being of their community.
One example of this dedication can be seen in the recent controversy surrounding the Little White Schoolhouse. This historic building, which played a significant role in the founding of the Republican Party, was at risk prior to the relocation. It became known that information was being kept from public knowledge. But the “real” people of Ripon refused to let that happen. They rallied together, spoke out at public gatherings, and launched a grassroots campaign to save the schoolhouse, but more importantly, to preserve the integrity of their community.
These people of Ripon know that saving the schoolhouse is not just about preserving a building, but also about protecting the identity and character of their community.
This is just one example of the many ways in which the “real” people of Ripon demonstrate their love for their community. Whether it’s volunteering at the local food pantry, organizing community events, or simply checking in on their neighbors, these individuals are always looking for ways to give back and make a difference.
And it’s not just the adults who are involved – the youth of Ripon are just as passionate about their town. Students at Ripon High School are involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports teams to music groups to service clubs. They take pride in their school and their town, and are eager to contribute in any way they can. We have so much to learn from them.
What’s truly inspiring about the “real” people of Ripon is their willingness to work together, regardless of their differences. They may not always agree on everything, but when it comes to the well-being of their community, they put their personal opinions aside and come together to actually find common ground. It’s this spirit of collaboration and cooperation that makes Ripon such a special place to live or visit.
In a world where so much seems uncertain and divisive, these people of Ripon provide a shining example of what can be accomplished when we work together towards a common goal. They remind us that no matter how big or small our communities may be, we all have a role to play in creating a better world for ourselves and for future generations. And for that, we can all be grateful.
If you relate to the words above…you are the “Real” Riponites I am speaking of.
