Jefferson Matters: Main Street’s board decided to get involved in welcoming the class reunions to the Bell Tower Festival with a new event that hopes to highlight our beautiful downtown. Amy Milligan is chairing this event along with Shannon Black, Lisa Turner, Angie Gingery, Bonnie Silbaugh, Ian Wilkinson and Tracy Deal. This group is working closely with Dr. Philip Heisterkamp and Bridgette Heisterkamp as they head up the entertainment.
The concept being developed is a block party on Friday night along Lincoln Way called “Downtown at Sundown” with live entertainment on the Lincoln Way stage and activities for families as they get back into town for the festival.
On Saturday, the class reunions will be encouraged to have an entry and have their families come to enjoy the fabulous parade organized by the Rotary Club of Jefferson. Following the parade, classmates and the public will be encouraged to return downtown for lunch at the various foodtrucks and local businesses. Seating will be available around the courthouse square but attendees will be invited to bring their lawn chairs and blankets from the parade to relax and visit.
An open concept for the alcohol is being explored with wristbands and purchases available in the block of the downtown square. Alcohol will not be permitted outside of the designated area. The evening entertainment will also be on the Lincoln Way stage. The committee feels this is a more inviting atmosphere and use of our beautiful downtown similar to what was experienced at RAGBRAI in 2018.
Volunteers are still needed for various committees for the Bell Tower Festival. The theme is Bell Tower with a Twist with a nod to 2019 celebrating the 40th Annual Bell Tower Festival. A volunteer committee is taking charge of the festival this year. Pete Russell is chairing the festival and can be reached at 515-370-2000 or at peterussell@netins.net. Sponsorships are also welcome to support the changes being made and bring back some old favorites from years past.