Funding still available for America’s birthday celebrations

SUNDANCE (WNE) — Funding is still available for communities hoping to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence next year. 

Parades, firework displays, exhibitions or gatherings – Wyoming is encouraging events of all kinds throughout the year to emphasize the state’s history and contributions to the nation. 

The Wyoming Semiquincentennial Planning Task Force recently announced its fourth and fifth rounds of grant awardees, but funds are still available from the $2 million appropriated by the Wyoming State Legislature. 

Two types of grants are available, both with an application deadline of December 31. 

The first is exclusively for counties that have formed an official committee for the purpose. This grant can be used for anything from public arts projects and monuments or markers to historical exhibits. 

The second is open to local governments, public education institutions, nonprofits and state agencies and requires a letter of support from the county committee or the county commissioners. 

Ideas will be evaluated on their relevance to the America 250 themes, community impact, feasibility, innovation and creativity and sustainability. 

The projects recently awarded funding included a chuckwagon cookoff in Cody; an interactive story walk showcasing Wyoming history in Campbell County; the Wind River Heritage Quest app, an interactive scavenger hunt; the America 250 Celebration Concert in Cheyenne, featuring the Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra; a display of self-portraits in Jackson; a display and giveaway of American flags at Cody Heritage Museum; and a reenactment, parade and demonstrations celebrating Thermopolis town icon Henry Johnson, who hauled freight for local merchants with a 16-mule team at the turn of the twentieth century. 

For more information about grants and celebration opportunities next year around Wyoming, visit wyoming250.com.