Letter: Visiting jugglers impressed with Cedar Rapids

I visited Cedar Rapids recently as a part of the International Jugglers' Association Festival at the U.S. Cellular Center. I was a chaperone for a group of young performers from Saint Ignatius High School in Cleveland. The students and I were very impressed with everything about the city.

We had a chance to try eight restaurants, all within an easy walk from the festival venue. I always felt that we were safe as we traveled along the railroad tracks to the market or 'up the hill” to Coe College for a special event. Our shows and competitions were enhanced by the beautiful Paramount Theatre and its 'flood rescue” heritage.

Most of all, we were impressed with the friendliness of the people. If we were in a group or as individuals, residents would make eye contact, smile, and say 'Hello!” As representatives of the 500 plus jugglers who were in the city, we want to say 'thank you” for making our festival a special and memorable one.

Art Thomas

Faculty Moderator

Saint Ignatius High School Circus Company

Cleveland, Ohio