America 250 is coming, and with it new logos and artwork for Macon County designed by local students.
The Macon County 250th Celebration Committee, a collaboration of the county and town governments, Franklin Chamber of Commerce, the Otto community, the Folk Heritage Association of Macon County, 828 vets and local businesses, sponsored an essay and logo contest in anticipation of the summer celebration. Amie Owens, a spokesperson for the committee, recognized the winners at the April 14 Macon County Board of Commissioners meeting.
Luke Krebs, Natalie Orr and Madison Clouse were recognized for essay submissions. Clouse won first place and read a copy of her essay written with the prompt of “What does America mean to me?”
Kenna Keyworth was the winner of the logo contest. Sadie Hicks, Natalie Orr and Dominik, Victoria and Jacob Lightner were recognized for their contributions to the logo contest. The students’ contributions will be featured on local marketing materials and America 250 merchandise. All these students received a certificate recognizing their contributions.
Owens shared some details about the upcoming celebration, which will take place July 3-4. She said Friday, July 3, the county will sponsoring outdoor activities and athletic events at Parker Meadows, including a whiffle ball tournament, a kickball tournament, a float and run event along the creek and basketball followed by a free concert downtown.
On Saturday, July 4, the traditional Independence Day Parade will take place in downtown Franklin as well as a patriotic pet contest and free watermelon. In the afternoon, activities will move to the Rec Park. The Folk Heritage Association will host a variety of old-fashioned games. There will be inflatables for kids, live music and food vendors. Owens said there will be Revolutionary War reenactors camped at the Rec Park all weekend. The weekend will wrap up with fireworks Saturday night at the Rec Park.
Owens said the committee is seeking sponsorships to help cover the cost of the two-day event.