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Fountain City Classic organizers tell council the event generates millions for Columbus and will expand scholarship program
Summary
Organizers and local leaders told the city council that the Fountain City Classic brings large visitor spending and volunteer effort to Columbus; organizers announced a community scholarship program and asked the council to continue its support for the event.
Calvin "Dean" Smiley, chair of the Fountain City Classic committee, addressed the council on Dec. 10 to thank the city for long-running support of the event, which the committee says generates substantial economic impact for Columbus.
Smiley and committee leaders said the Classic draws tens of thousands to the city: volunteers and staff estimate 40,000 on-site attendees for the game day. Over the years the event group estimates approximately $5,000,000 has been raised for teams and sponsorship activities, and organizers announced plans for an expanded community scholarship program that will go live in mid-January. The program aims to provide $1,000–$2,500 scholarships to students from Columbus to attend a school of their choice nationwide.
Organizers also thanked the city for logistical and security support: sheriff’s office, police and city staff support the event’s public-safety planning and the Columbus Civic Center coordinates ticketing and event space. Smiley asked council to continue to support the Classic, noted the event’s role in sports tourism, and said the committee will invite council to the Classic’s 35th-anniversary reception.
Council reaction: multiple councilors praised Smiley and the Classic’s volunteers and emphasized the event’s value to hotels, restaurants and the broader local economy. Councilors discussed maintaining facilities such as AJ McClung Memorial Stadium and improving tailgating and fan experience to keep the Classic in Columbus.
Ending: The committee plans a widespread volunteer effort starting in June and a public scholarship application launch in January; organizers said they will provide dates and web details to the city and community partners.
