First Barnesville Freedom Parade Sponsored by Main Street Barnesville
The incoming rain did not prevent the first-ever Barnesville Freedom Parade from going as planned on July 5 as part of the village’s “America 250” celebration. Main Street Barnesville sponsored the event, and approximately 50 entries lined up at the Barnesville Depot to participate. Main Street Barnesville Board member Cody Welch expressed, “We think the parade made the 250th birthday special because it gave the kids a way to participate and be a part of the community celebration.”
Participants 12 and under were eligible to win a prize for the best decorated. First-, second-, and third-place winners received trophies and cash prizes of $75, $50, and $25, respectively. The judges for the contest were Tenley Hughes, Luke Johnson and Jennifer Rucker.
All participants received a medal, a handheld flag from Kiwanis, and an Ohio’s Homecoming & Picnic goodie bag, including a kite, bandana, coloring activities and other items, presented by Cenovus Energy.
After the parade, participants and their families gathered at the Barnesville Depot for refreshments and the awards presentation.
Winners
First Place — Mason Meyer
Second Place — Millie Jefferis
Third Place — Marigold Musker
Main Street Barnesville hopes to continue the parade next year, keeping the focus on kid participation. The plan is to increase the number of entries and include other categories, such as pets. Welch stated, “We want the parade to turn into something that every kid in Barnesville and the surrounding area participates in and looks forward to each year.”
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