Life's Too Short: Air Force Major Retires, DHS Open House & More

USAF Major from Dixon Retires

    Understandably, with all the budget cuts, there is very little gala extended for Air Force retirements these days. So, I have to publicly recognize my husband, David Dingman, for his 32 years of “duty, honor, and country.” David also served numerous years as Dixon's City Treasurer after elected three times but having to pass the post on due to a year-long Arizona assignment.

   This weekend was his last after several tours, including Honduras, Greece, Turkey, Djibouti (Africa), Panama and Oman in active duty, then another decade plus in the Air National Guard. These last ten years, he has served as Reserve Comptroller for the 349th Air Mobility Wing at Travis Air Force Base.

   David came from a family of seven children in a very modest country home he helped build with his Dad. He joined the Air Force at age 18, fresh from high school graduation in a very small Texas town so he "could see the world." Interestingly, each of his brothers went into a different branch--Marines, Navy, and Army.

   It’s been a grand run and I am so proud of him. He has brought a whole new level of patriotism--and pride in the United State--to our family development that I don’t think would have been created for us otherwise. 

   There are 12 weekends a year required but he often did many more to fulfill his duties honorably and with great integrity. Now, he plans to grow a better garden, do a lot more hiking, and enjoy more family time. I’m good with that but have warned him that I do not plan to salute him when he produces the perfect beefsteak tomato.  

Dixon High Hosts Open House  

   At the Dixon High School Annual Open House this coming Wednesday, March 27, 6-8 p.m., there will be plenty of activities plus absolutely unique and interesting pieces of artwork on display thanks to the many talented students of Dixon High. The show is open to parents and to the public and I promise you will be amazed at their work.

   But, you might also enjoy the hamburgers and hotdogs that the Future Farmers of America will be barbecuing, listen to performances by the DHS Band, watch  one or two of the Drama Presentations, or observe the interesting Science Labs. For more information, call (707) 678-2391.

   If you miss that opportunity to see the student's art displays, the Downtown Dixon Business Association is working to coordinate with students to bring art works into businesses soon afterwards so when you’re out shopping or eating at one of our downtown restaurants, you’ll get to peek at the pool of budding artists. 

   Also take note that Dixon Public Schools will be out on Spring Break so drive carefully around town and watch out for little pedestrians or bicyclists.

Plan to Participate at Block Party

   Organizers for Dixon Family Services are busy mapping out who is going to be where at their 18th Annual Dixon Community Block Party on Saturday, April 27. If you have considered hosting a booth for your business or organization, now is the time to contact them.

   It will be held at the Dixon Women’s Improvement Club Park on the corner of Highway 113 and East C Street from 10 am until 2 pm and is always very popular with children and families.

   This is an event that usually has visits from police, fire, and other public agencies and includes a police car, ambulance, and a fire engine. Paramedics and department volunteers are also on hand to show the insides and workings of the emergency vehicles to the children.

   This year there will be a demonstration from the students of Ramtown Karate and tentatively, a children’s fashion show at 11 am, coordinated by moi. It should be a very fun day. 

Moms Group Going Good

   Even in last week’s rain, we still had new moms come out for our New Parents Group that meets on Wednesday morning, 9 – 10 am for our free gathering at Nana & Co. Children’s Boutique in downtown Dixon. We enjoy coffee or tea and light refreshments while visiting about their week with their babies. What is interesting is we have one mom driving from Woodland and another from Vacaville because they either didn’t have a group that meets in their town for new babies or they preferred our timing and day.

   In any case, it’s great to see new friendships being forged and mothers getting the extra support they need when their precious little bundle is making them sleep deprived. If anyone wants more information, feel free to call (707) 678-Nana.