City, County Plan Unified U.S. 250th Anniversary

The Olney City Council has joined a countywide effort to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, or semiquincentennial, approving a proclamation supporting a July 4 celebration in Graham. The proposal was brought to the Council by the Graham- based community group Stars and Stripes in Young County.

The proclamation, presented during the council’s April 13 meeting, was requested by Young County Veterans Service Officer Adam Levine, who outlined plans for a joint celebration involving the cities of Olney, Graham, and Newcastle.

Mr. Levine described the event as an opportunity to bring the county together for what he called a once-in-a-generation milestone.

“Two hundred fifty years is a major accomplishment for a country,” he told council members.

The celebration, scheduled for July 4 on the Young County Courthouse square in Graham, will include a prayer service, veterans recognition ceremony, and parade, with participation encouraged from communities across the county.

Mr. Levine emphasized the longstanding ties between the cities, describing them as “sibling cities” that have supported one another through decades of shared history.

“We’ve only done that by mutually supporting one another through major milestones,” he said.

Beyond honoring the past, Mr. Levine said the event is intended to address what he described as a growing disconnect among younger Americans, citing national data showing declining patriotism.

“No better way to honor them and celebrate the present than to show them that their service is truly worthwhile,” he said, referring to local veterans.

He also stressed the importance of inspiring the next generation.

“Inspiring the next generation… so our nation shall not be divided and will continue to prosper for another 250 years,” Mr. Levine said.

Mayor Rue Rogers voiced support for the effort, noting the coordination already underway with local organizations and the opportunity for Olney residents to take part in a larger regional celebration.

“On behalf of the city, we want to completely partner with that,” Mayor Rogers said. “We’re excited and looking forward to celebrating as a county.”

The council unanimously approved the proclamation, which encourages Olney residents to participate in the July 4 events, honor veterans and celebrate the nation’s founding.

The document calls the anniversary “a oncein- a-lifetime occurrence” and urges citizens to “remember the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future” through community participation.

For more information on the schedule and ways to help support the 250th celebration, check out the group’s website at www. starsandstripesinyoungco. com.