America250 Lawrence County representative Rich Donahue briefed the Lawrence County Board of Commissioners on a package of events and projects tied to the 250th anniversary campaign, including history publications, school projects, public murals and souvenirs intended for next year’s observances.

Donahue said the group is compiling a local history book and planning two county picnics and a week of programming at the county fair; organizers also hope to plant a commemorative tree on the courthouse lawn and to produce souvenirs for distribution at events.

“July 4, we’re having fireworks on the riverbank,” Donahue said, adding that the display is planned for July 4, 2026 and carries a projected cost of $20,000. He said the group is also scheduling a county homecoming and a separate picnic event at the fair.

Donahue described partnerships with local schools for a program called Lovely Lawrence County, in which students photograph and document local places and people; two schools completed a trial run this year. He also described a planned mural on a downtown flood wall — likely depicting the Gillette Farm Barn and other local themes — and said the state’s “Ohio Goes to the Movies” program is scheduling a local event that could draw state officials.

On souvenirs and fundraising, Donahue said a sponsor purchased an initial run of 1,000 commemorative pins and the committee has roughly 990 remaining; the group plans to sell or distribute pins, coins, lanyards and brochures at events to raise funds. He also said the committee provided a marble plaque to the state America250 director and is exploring sales to other counties.

Why it matters: the committee’s activities aim to promote local history, tourism and community engagement during the national anniversary observances; several items will require further coordination with county staff, budgets and community groups.

Next steps and requests: Donahue asked county staff for a price list for small souvenir items and said he would coordinate tree‑planting dates and other event logistics with county administration. Commissioners and staff discussed offering smaller flag versions for office display and linking school and children’s services programs to America250 activities.