As one local chamber of commerce has navigated its way through summer activities, there have been additional minds to help out. 

The Perry Chamber of Commerce hosted two summer interns, one of them was  Perry native Hannah Peterson. Peterson says her internship has been a good way to learn more about planning events. 

Peterson adds she helped with the farmer’s market as well as planning the upcoming Mini Bike Ride to the Rec event. Peterson says she has been able to see what planning these big events takes as she attends Iowa State University as an event management and public relations major. 

“I definitely have a greater appreciation for what goes into planning events and executing them. I grew up going to Friday Fest, not thinking anything of it, I grew up going to the Fourth of July not thinking it was as chaotic as it is. Working for the Chamber I’ve been able to see how much work goes into planning the Fourth of July and how much that the Chamber members and (Chamber Director) Lynsi (Pasutti) do for the community that people just don’t realize.”

Chamber Director Lynsi Pasutti tells Raccoon Valley Radio it has been nice to have extra hands around to help plan events. 

“Obviously, great to have extra hands on deck when planning events and day of events, but also really thinking about giving back to young people and helping them on their way has been a great experience.”

Peterson says she has a greater understanding of what it’s like to plan some of the fan favorite events in Perry.