Countless times I think of her, wishing I could ask her advice, knowing I could count on her to lend a hand and wanting to be warmed by her smile and delighted by her laughter.

The late Judy Schmidt wasn’t only a wonderful friend, she was my mentor. A role she served to many people in Silverton who share similar thoughts about this amazing lady.

She taught me along with many other people in Silverton the true meaning of community. Whether she was dancing in the Homer Days Parade with a bedpan along with other members of the Silverton Hospital Auxiliary, serving food at the Kiwanis OFest booth or attending a high school athletic event, Judy always was an example of grace, friendship and giving.

Oct. 1 is a tough day for many of her friends because it’s the day we lost her.

The one thing she taught all of us is not to wallow when things are tough. Not to give up.

But to give.

So that’s why on Oct. 22 we will host the second annual Judy’s Party - A Community Celebration.  

Judy’s Party isn’t just to honor my dear friend Judy Schmidt. It’s to celebrate all the volunteers in our community. It’s an opportunity to join together, listen to great music, eat and dance and take a moment to cherish all the wonderful friends we have.

A fundraiser for local nonprofits, last year the event raised $15,000 that was given to many nonprofit organizations including Silverton Area Community Aid, Wednesday Night Dinners, Kiwanis Club, Community Mosaic Fountain Project, Silverton Mural Society and Silverton Together.

We had requests for more than $43,000 in grants. And honestly, it was disappointing to say we couldn't grant every request.

So here’s your chance to do something to give back to your community. I personally invite everyone to Judy’s Party – A Community Celebration from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22 at the Silverton First Christian Church. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased at the Silverton Chamber of Commerce, 426 S. Water St. in Silverton.

We also need donations. We can take anything from a box of apples to zoo passes. If you have something to donate, give us a call at 503-873-5615.

Please know whatever you do, attend the party, give a donation or do both, you are giving a wonderful gift to your community.

Looking forward to celebrating with you on Oct. 22!