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As it was noted by Up in Smoke barbecue
committeeman Kevin Bateman, there are many, many people involved in
each committee and no one person can take all of the credit for the
incredible success of the annual event.
The ribbon cutting began with a welcome from Lincoln
Mayor Tracy Welch who said it was good to see the event returning to
Lincoln. He said there was a lot that went into it and the hopes was
that everyone would have a good time.
Bateman spoke again representing the Up In Smoke and
naming all the people on the committee and said there were all those
and more who played a part in the barbecue.
Marcia Cook was on hand representing the Art Festival
portion of the program. She took a moment to plug the event that is
held on McLean Street in front of the Lincoln Arts Institute.
Michelle Bauer, Christopher Bennett and Lesleigh
Bennett were there for the Young Professionals Network that is
responsible for the “swigs” portion of the weekend. Bauer spoke
about the live entertainment that would be on the main stage Friday
and Saturday evening and nights. She also explained that the
downtown bars would be serving and that open alcohol was allowed in
designated areas.
Seth, Scott and Gaynor Goodman were on hand
representing the ballooning portion of the weekend. He shared that
there are 34 balloons participating this year and encouraged
everyone to go to Open Arms Church Friday and Saturday to enjoy
various ballooning events. He also shared that a couple of the
pilots were on hand for the ribbon cut.
Jennifer Prather was on hand representing the Lincoln
Park District and the 5K race that would be held on Saturday
morning. She commented on the racing event.
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The last person to speak was Logan County Tourism
Director Alice Roate who was there along with her assistant Lexie
Groves. Roate said there was so much going on this weekend and so
many things to do and see. She commented, “If you can find anything
to do in Lincoln this weekend, you’re not doing it right!”
With speeches over, there was a quick run down of
other events not mentioned such as Dock Dogs, the Library Book Sale,
Craft Fair at the Oasis, and the many food trucks along with
shopping in local stores and enjoying local eateries.
There was then a posed photo taken and Michelle Bauer
did the honors of snipping the ribbon at the end of the countdown.
[Nila Smith]
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