Sumner County planning group finalizes 'America 250' celebration plans, approves monument grant

Sumner County organizers on March 26 approved an amended agenda and set final details for the county's "America 250" celebration, including funding for a new Jethro Sumner monument and programming that will run through July.

Mayor John C. Isbell opened the meeting and moved to amend the agenda to add items for a time capsule, a flyer and a public-relations campaign; the amendment passed with David Moomy recorded as approver and Henry Puckett as seconder. The committee also approved the Feb. 26 minutes on a motion by Mayor Isbell, with Reggie Mudd recorded as approver and Puckett seconding.

Committee members Sandra Long and Kim Norfleet reported that a $25,000 community support grant was approved and a deposit made to Hunt Monument for a Jethro Sumner monument. The report also said a private donor contributed $20,000 and that Dave and Diane Black will unveil the monument; the Blacks will bring a rare copy of the Declaration of Independence and General Sumner's sword for display. The committee noted that a very large time capsule will be part of the events.

Mark Efros outlined a scavenger hunt set to go live April 10. The activity will include three tasks that may be completed drive-by with photo submissions and answers to questions; prizes will include America 250 T-shirts and a grand prize of a family trip to Dollywood.

The committee confirmed a slate of July events. A Patriot Monument dedication in Sumner County, hosted by the Daughters of the American Revolution, will require two choirs and the Sons of the American Revolution were asked to provide a firing salute. The group said county administration and archives buildings will be open briefly after the ceremony. A July 4 parade in Gallatin will assemble at 10:30 a.m. at Gallatin High School and begin at noon. The event name was approved by vote as "Let Freedom Ring on the Square America 250." Parking plans include the county garage, church lots and library spaces.

Jeff Yawn reported participation from 10 schools and that 100 pieces of student art will be displayed; the art contest winner will lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Kim Norfleet and Ken Thomson said seven short videos highlighting historic sites — Rock Castle, Bledsoe Lick Historical Park, Rose Mont, Wynnewood, Cragfont State Historic Site, Gallatin Cemetery and Trousdale Place — will be part of event media, with a possible fall series if additional content is available.

James Lindsey said a resource page and donation link have been added to the event website and that the site was expected to launch Monday, March 30.

The meeting adjourned at 4:15 p.m.