By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
A large amount of logistics and details are yet to be worked out, but sometime next year downtown Decatur may be graced with banners carrying photos of local armed services veterans.
Carol Riley (right in photo), vice president, Antoine Rivarre DAR chapter, daughters of the American Revolution, and Louann Bultemeyer (left) of the local chapter brought the idea before Decatur City Council at its meeting Tuesday night in City Hall.
The Rivarre chapter would take on all aspects of the banner project with no cost to the city, other than employees mounting and removing the banners, no paperwork nor liability.
The banners would be hung from city street lights on Monroe, First and Second streets in the downtown area, as well as on the Madison St. Plaza. That would likely amount to 30 banners.
The banners, Riley explained, would have the vet’s name, photo, branch, rank and more (see photo). The DAR recommends the banners be up for one year, although there would be temporary removals for certain events such as Christmas decorations.
After a discussion, Riley was informed that she needs to take the proposal before Decatur Main Street’s design committee for its approval, which is standard procedure for council in matters of this nature.
Once all the details have been worked out with the Main Street group, their recommendation would come to council for its decision on whether to move forward – which, given council’s enthusiastic reception, seems likely.
In response to a question posed by Mayor Dan Rickord, Riley said which vets go on the banners for 30 or so light poles would be decided on a first-come, first-served basis. Those not included would go on a waiting list, she explained.
The cost of each banner to veterans and/sponsors would be determined once printing and processing costs are determined.
The Rivarre chapter would handle marketing, but since it is a 501c organization (tax exempt), it is prohibited from doing social media sales or advertising.
Following is the criteria for being on a banner:
* Vet must have some connection to Adams County.
* Must have been honorably discharged.
* Vet must be in uniform for photo (fatigues okay).
* Photos must be clear, on photo paper, with contrast of the veteran and background.
* No digital photos or photos in frames will be accepted.
* Deadline for applications and photos is not yet determined.
* Applications will not be processed until photo is accepted, payment is received, and consent/waiver form is signed.
“Thank you for your effort; we all think it’s a great idea,” Mayor Dan Rickord said.
“I think it’s a great thing. I’m glad you’re taking the lead,” added Councilman Craig Coshow.
“This would be a great addition to our community,” noted Councilman Wylie Sirk.
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