By RICK HEAD Publisher
NAHUNTA — Officials feel good about the progress made during a called meeting concerning plans for the City of Nahunta’s 100-year celebration.
Mayor Marty Lee and council members Crystal Johns, Bruce Davis and Andrew Altman were joined by City Manager Tom Wirth and City Clerk Angie Wirth for the Thursday, January 16 called meeting to formulate ideas and a Centennial Committee. There were also three citizens in attendance.
Early plans are for a week-long celebration beginning Monday, July 21 culminating with a Monday, July 28 “party” with the theme “Celebrating Our Roots.” Events would be held daily with a parade Saturday, July 26 and a community church service led by local preachers Sunday, July 27.
“What we want to do is recognize where we came from, how we've grown and pay respect to our traditions,” said Altman. “We want to involve the public. We’re trying to get some folks together, kind of brainstorm on some ideas to celebrate and plan a good celebration.
“I would like to get five or 10 people on the committee. They can help do a lot of planning and contact some organizations.”
The Chamber of Commerce, the Art Association and Magnolia House in Waycross are three organizations the council discussed as being involved. They are hoping more will join in.
There were talks of inviting Governor Brian Kemp, Representative Buddy Carter to Ag Commissioner Tyler Harper. A stage could be put in place for July 26 for quest speakers. A block party with bands playing would follow.
The idea of putting banners on light poles signifying the 100-year celebration was discussed as well. Talks of having a contest for someone design the logo turned serious having residents submit their drawings of a logo contest submitted at City Hall.
“If we want to put flags up we need to get a design,” said Wirth, the city manager.
The once celebrated Armadillo festival in the late 1970s and 1980s was talked about. The event, held the first weekend in May, gained national attention. It included the Brantley County Armadillo Olympics and a cookout with armadillo prominently featured.
