Come and Take It Committee gets fulfillment from putting on yearly event

Come and Take It Celebration Committee Chair Daisy Scheske Freeman poetically described the sway this annual October event holds over longtime residents and why it remains indelibly etched in the collective hearts and minds of those who call Gonzales home.

“For those of us who grew up in Gonzales, the Come and Take It celebration has always been a part of our lives,” Scheske said. “Whether we volunteered through school organizations, participated in the parade, or rode the carnival rides and grubbed on local eats, this event has long been a fixture on our calendars, spanning many years and countless memories.”

The 2024 edition of the community celebration of the “Lexington of Texas” — the shot heard round the Lone Star State — kicks off this Friday, Oct. 4, and continues through Saturday, Oct. 6 in downtown Gonzales as well as at other locations, including Pioneer Village, JB Wells Arena, Independence Park and Lake Wood Recreational Area.

Freeman and other members of the 2024 Come and Take It Celebration Committee answered questions for the Inquirer about how long they have been members of the committee, what current position they hold and what they find most fulfilling about their service on the committee.1

“We are proud to carry on the traditions of the former volunteers before us, who also recognized the value this event brings to the community,” Freeman said. “I’m especially proud that this event honors a long-standing tradition of celebrating our history, as we’re the only ones who can claim the first shot fired for Texas independence.”

Freeman said she began volunteering for the committee in 2011-2012 before serving as the Chamber director and a contributing member from 2013-2020. Since 2021, she has been the chairman for the committee. On a side note, she has “volunteered in different capacities since I was a child.”

“What I find most fulfilling about serving on the committee is seeing a project come together,” Freeman said. “I’ve always loved working behind the scenes and witnessing people create lasting memories with their friends and family, just like I did growing up.

“Our committee is incredible — more than just friends, we’re like family. This year, we've all faced personal hardships, losing close family members, but we’ve continued to support each other and come together to make the event happen with the resources we have.”

Entertainment Chairman Britney Jones Caka has been with the committee since 2013, always having served in that capacity.

“The most fulfilling part for me is looking off the stage in to the crowd and seeing our town coming together, having a good time, and celebrating our history!” Caka said.

It’s the second stint on the committee for Parade Chairman Renee Rathmann, who first was on board for three years beginning in 2014, including two years as secretary. This time around, she has spent the past six months in her new position.

Rathmann spoke about “the friendships and bonds we form with each other on the committee.”

“We are a team that will help each other on and off from the committee work all year long,” she said. “Also, the smiles and laughter you see from the youngest to the oldest attendees, enjoying something you had a hand in putting together.”
Activities Chairman Kasey Condel Rhodes said both the Chamber and the Come and Take Celebration are “dear to my heart.” This is her second year heading up activities, while she also served on the Chamber Board for three years and has been a member of the non-profit organization for eight years.

“I find what is most fulfilling to me about my service to the committee and my community is having the ability to help shape decisions, contribute to meaningful thoughts and bringing new and reoccurring activities to the Come and Take It Celebration.” Rhodes said. “Also, working as a team with my fellow committee members. It truly takes every one of us!”

Marketing Chairman Jessie Holt Champion joined the Come and Take It Committee in 2013 as the Vendor Chair, a position she held for two years before taking her current seat in 2015. This would now be her 10th Come and Take It heading up marketing.

“Seeing our community come together to celebrate our history is incredibly rewarding,” Champion said. “Watching thousands of people enjoy the festivities — whether they're seeking thrills at the carnival, riding in the parade, dancing to live music, or taking part in the many activities the festival offers — makes all the long hours worthwhile.

“The significant economic impact the festival has on our local nonprofits and businesses is the icing on the cake, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Food and Beverage Chairman Christy Swiful Day is the newest member of the committee as this will be her first CATI ever on board, but not her first festival as she is a native Gonzalean.

“Being a part of the Come and Take It committee allows me to give back to the wonderful community where I grew up,” Day said. “I see the dedication of everyone on the committee as we work to create a fantastic celebration for our community, and I wanted to contribute in any way I could. It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness our hard work throughout the year come to fruition as everyone comes together to celebrate our town’s rich history! “
Treasurer Naomi Brown has been an official committee member for two years now and talked about it being “truly a privilege to work alongside each of these dedicated individuals as we deliver a successful event for our Gonzales community.”

“My favorite part of the whole weekend is walking onto the stage while the bands are playing and looking out into the crowd to see hundreds enjoying the entertainment and festival,” Brown said. “All the organizing, meetings, and long days leading up to the event immediately become worthwhile.

“It is incredibly fulfilling having the opportunity to collaborate with passionate individuals to create something meaningful for our community. Contributing ideas to create a successful celebration for our community and seeing our plans come to life, while making a positive impact for our local businesses, brings a deep sense of satisfaction.”

Finally, Grounds Chairman Frank Wallace has held that position on the committee for the past four years.

“I find interacting with the other committee members, the public and trying to keep those attending the festivities safe to be the most rewarding aspect of my position,” Wallace said.