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Celebrate Poland adds new events
By EARTHA TERRELL
Rainy weather didn’t hinder enthusiasm last weekend as Celebrate Poland opened last Friday with the Strawberry Festival.
“For me, the event is a celebration of our town as well as a celebration of our nation’s birthday. It brings out the whole community in a fun family atmosphere,” said John Scotford Jr.
For the first time, the festival also included several new attractions, including a battle of the bands and participation from Poland High School varsity football players and cheerleaders. According to Celebrate Poland Vice President Bob Lidle, this change came about as a result of seeing a lack of engaging activities for teenagers in previous years.
Parents and community members were thrilled to spend time with the high school athletes and some football players said they were just as excited to receive so much support.
“We’re usually on the sideline and we don’t get to always see people, so it feels good to see the community support us. It makes you feel important and gives you a purpose. It just motivates you to do better,” said varsity football player Alex Ankerman.
There were several activities for everyone to enjoy. Children and adults immersed themselves in friendly competition during the cornhole tournament. Residents cheered from their porches and the sidewalk, catching candy as they watched their friends, coworkers and fellow neighbors ride down South Main street during the Fireman Parade.
Lidle appreciated the support and hoped more people would come and join the festivities next year.
“As someone who was a part of this from the beginning, I’m very thankful for the people who got this thing off the ground and new people. I also welcome new individuals and organizations because we’d love to get them involved,” Lidle said.