The Bourbon Town Council approved a number of requests during their Tuesday, July 9th meeting that will help support the annual Bourbon Festival. The Bourbon Festival will run from August 9 to August 11 this year.
Car show organizer Lonnie Berkey shared a few comments about the event that has been held for 33 years. Berkey said they have had to move the show to the school grounds. After the meeting he said that the school’s administrators have been very cooperative in providing the need electric power sources. The council approved a donation of $300 towards the expenses associated with the event.
Berkey also introduced Ashley Lemler who has agreed to organize all aspects of a co-ed softball tournament. Lemler said players from several neighboring towns as well as Bourbon residents travel to games in the area, such as those held in Akron. She was seeking approval to proceed with plans that could include uses the restrooms in the park area, setting up the playing fields, and accessing equipment. She was given a unanimous vote in favor.
Dan Stichter along with Bobby Goodman outlined their intention to bring a cornhole tournament to the list of events. According to Strichter, the expectation is that 100-150 people would take part in the tournament. They asked for a donation of $250 to be used for advertising on t-shirts and Facebook advertising. They already have twelve teams signed up and will continue both advance registration and on-site registration. Additional funding will come from team entry fees. It was noted that there will be categories for both social and competitive play. The Council approved the request. Council member, Les McFarland said this kind of event is a “quality of life issue” that helps bring people from other towns and states to Bourbon.
Fire Chief Mike Chapman asked informally if the town would be willing to help pay for fireworks. The Council voted 3-0 to extend a donation of $500.
Carol Anders Correspondent
