Ashkum festival to begin Thursday

By ERIN DOSS\Reporter
Times Republic Link

The Village of Ashkum will be a busy place this weekend as the town conducts a Sesquicentennial Celebration with festivities beginning Thursday and continuing through Sunday.

The village was first laid out near the site of Potawatomi Chief Ashkum's village 150 years ago.
The celebration begins with an opening ceremony at 7 p.m. Thursday in the village park. During the ceremony, members of the Ashkum American Legion, Peters Post 643 will present arms as the American flag is raised by Mayor Paul Heideman.

The queen pageant will follow the ceremony, as three young women, Megan Brinkman, Kaela Nourie and Meredith Weber, vie for the crown. Ashkum Centennial Queen Barbara Beland Berns and Ashkum Quasquicentennial Queen Kathie Hemp Topel will both be present for the pageant.

On Thursday and throughout the weekend, carnival rides are available with special pricing from 6-10 p.m. Thursday.

Festivities begin again on Friday with a fish fry at 5 p.m. and carnival rides starting at 6 p.m.

The free evening entertainment will be presented at 8 p.m. by Elvis impersonator Rick Saucedo and the "Change of Habit Tribute Band." At 10:30 p.m. guests can enjoy a DJ, music and dancing.

On Saturday, the Street Parade begins at 11 a.m., led by Parade Grand Marshal Wayne Meier. Sesquicentennial chairman Lois Phelps said several entries have been made in the parade.

"The parade entries are pouring in, so be prepared for some great floats, cars, horses and a few surprises," she said. "After the parade, get to the park and grab a quick sandwich."