Participating in the Amazing Shake competition with 7th and 8th-grade students from Ottawa Elementary and Glandorf Elementary was an incredible honor. Kelly and I had the privilege of serving as judges at the Community booth on day one, where students were tasked with proposing ideas to improve our community. The responses we received from these bright young minds were nothing short of inspiring.

One student suggested creating a place where everyone could feel included, ensuring no one would feel left out. Another student highlighted the need for safer crosswalks. By mid-morning, we were astounded by the depth and thoughtfulness of their ideas.

This experience taught us several important lessons:

1. Engaging Young Minds: When we take the time to talk to children and ask for their opinions on community improvement, their answers can be surprisingly profound. Many students expressed a desire for screen-free zones, emphasizing the joy of meeting people and having face-to-face conversations.
2. Kid-Friendly Activities: There was a clear call for more activities tailored to young people. Some students were thrilled to hear that the GoOttawa team is already working on initiatives they care about.
3. More Family-Oriented Dining Options: A significant number of students voiced a preference for more restaurants without bars attached, noting that our town has plenty of bars but could use more diverse dining options.
4. Environmental Concerns: Our young participants are deeply concerned about environmental issues. They proposed reducing light pollution to enjoy clearer night skies and to help migrating birds. They also advocated for community gardens to grow fresh vegetables and emphasized the importance of waste reduction and increased recycling efforts. Many expressed a willingness to participate in programs aimed at achieving these goals.

What struck me most was the students' gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the competition. Their enthusiasm and insightful ideas give me hope that future generations will not only care for each other but will also be dedicated to protecting our planet.

We eagerly anticipate next year's Amazing Shake competition, confident that it will continue to be a source of inspiration and optimism for our community's future.