Pulaski County Residents Welcome Indiana Bicentennial Torch

20161007_162300The Indiana Bicentennial Torch made its way to Pulaski County Friday. The torch traveled up U.S. 35 before heading down the Tippecanoe River in a canoe. Then, it was on to Downtown Winamac for the TorchFest Opening Ceremony.

Taylor Smith’s rendition of “Back Home Again in Indiana” greeted the torch as it arrived in front of the Pulaski County Courthouse.

During the ceremony, Pulaski County Bicentennial Committee member MacKenzie Ledley honored several local families who trace their roots back to the founding of the state 200 years ago. She then quoted the preface of “Torch Bearers in Indiana,” a book written by Charity Dye just after the Indiana Centennial, “‘Every one is really a “Torch Bearer” who stands at his post in any station of life and fulfills his duty to the uttermost.'” Ledley added, “As we celebrate this wonderful place we call home, let us continue to work together to create a lasting legacy for future generations of Hoosiers.”

Friday’s ceremony also featured readings of Hoosier poetry. Additionally, Circuit Court Judge Michael Shurn read a proclamation recognizing the torch relay and the county’s celebration. The ceremony wrapped up with the torch being placed in a motorized two-wheeled vehicle and setting off toward Starke County.

Meanwhile, TorchFest continues until tomorrow afternoon in Downtown Winamac.

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