Sometimes we take too many things for granted. One is the benevolence of the Shenango Valley’s two great philanthropists, Frank and Julia Buhl.

On Monday we celebrate Buhl Day, a community festival that commemorates the legacy of the Buhls who gave so much to our area. But as we enjoy the parade, music, games, food and the beauty of Buhl Farm park, we all need to do a better job of emulating the Buhls.

We need to give back to our community.

The donations to put on this year’s festivities are woefully low, according to Buhl Day organizers. And if money is being lost in putting on this glorious event, then how much longer can it continue?

It’s the same financial crunch felt by Buhl Farm and the Buhl Community Recreation Center (former F.H. Buhl Club).

Too many people think the Buhl trust still covers everything. It doesn’t even come close.

The recreation center receives no money from the trust and must maintain itself. And the money left in the trust no longer covers the annual expenses of maintaining the park as well as the only free golf course in the world.

But the Buhl trustees, park administrator Pat O’Mahony and his staff work hard to keep the park running smoothly.

One example of their efforts came recently after a Herald story revealed that there was trash and some old broken park equipment piled in an area of the woods off the Buhl Farm Golf Course.

By the time we got around to criticizing them in an editorial this week about the dump, park officials said the area had been cleaned up.

We praise their quick action, especially with huge crowds soon to venture through areas of the park on Monday.

So while we celebrate the great gifts left to us by the Buhls, we need to start pitching in to help maintain those gifts.

As you look over beautiful Lake Julia and your children and grandchildren giggle with glee at the antics of the ducks, geese and swans that swim there, thank the Buhls.

As you look at the wonderfully crafted Casino that will soon enjoy a major renovation or the nearby swimming pool and new poolhouse, thank the Buhls.

As you enjoy the walking trails, the playground equipment or a show at the bandstand, thank the Buhls.