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50th Morganfield Lions Club Corn Festival

AUTHENTIC ROOTS, AMBITIOUS PURSUITS

Honoring the Morganfield JayCees and Jaycettes

2024 FESTIVAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Morganfield Lions Club proudly announces its theme for the 2024 Corn Festival: "AUTHENTIC ROOTS, AMBITIOUS PURSUITS"

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Attention Parents and Guardians: Parade Safety Reminder

As we prepare to enjoy the upcoming parade, we want to ensure the safety of all attendees, especially our young ones. Please take a moment to read the following important safety reminder:

For the safety of your children, please do not allow them to run into the parade route to pick up candy or other items thrown from moving vehicles.
Motorized floats and vehicles in the parade can be unpredictable and dangerous. A moment of distraction can lead to serious accidents. To keep the parade a fun and safe experience for everyone, we ask that you keep a close eye on your children and remind them of the following safety guidelines:

Stay on the Sidelines: Enjoy the parade from the sidelines where it’s safe. Encourage children to stay behind the designated barriers or sidewalk.
Wait for Candy to Come to You: Parade participants will throw candy and treats towards the crowd. Wait for them to land safely before picking them up.
No Running into the Street: Explain to children the dangers of running into the street, especially in the presence of moving vehicles.
Hold Hands: For younger children, hold their hands to ensure they stay close and safe.
Be Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on children at all times.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding in helping us keep this event safe and enjoyable for everyone. Let’s make this parade a memorable and joyous occasion by putting safety first!

Thank you and have a wonderful time at the parade!
Sincerely,
Morganfield Lions Club Board of Directors

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Attention Volleyball Tournament Goers

The Sand Volleyball Tournament sponsored by River View has been cancelled.

Coach Quaid Girten has reported that there are no teams that have signed up for the sand volleyball tournament and requested that the tournament be cancelled. The Union County High School teams have games scheduled this week. He asks for your support by attending their games.

The tournament will resume at the 2025 Corn Festival.

Thank you and have a wonderful time at the Morganfield Lions Club Corn Festival!
Sincerely,
Morganfield Lions Club Board of Directors

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Check Here for Updates on the Weather and Festival Status

Hurrican Helene will not rain on our parade. The Festival Status is Still Go!

Renaissance Corner is nearing completion. The entire corner looks and sounds amazing. It will be useable for all scheduled events (weather cooperating). The workers have made Hurculean progress in the last few weeks to meet the festival start time. See actual pictures as of this morning of the status of Renaissance Stage yourself below.

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Thank you and have a wonderful time at the Morganfield Lions Club Corn Festival!
Sincerely,
Morganfield Lions Club Board of Directors

Check Here for Updates on the Weather and Festival Status

Due to the inclement weather, corn festival parade will be moved to Sunday, September 29th at 2:00 p.m. All registered entries will be automatically registered for Sunday. Food vendors will now be set up through Sunday evening.

If weather permits, bands will be playing before and after the parade on Sunday.

Half-pot drawing will be at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday as originally planned. A new schedule will be published on Face Book and our website soon. Check back for further updates.

Baby contest and tiny Mr and Miss will be Saturday at 9:00am at St Ann’s parish hall. We really appreciate St Ann’s letting us use their facilities.

We are setup in Jen’s General Store selling half pot tickets!!

Jackson’s Snackin Wagon and Power-pit BBQ are open downtown. JPII is setup at Nutrien Morganfield location.

Update for vendors. You can stay through Sunday night.

Jackson’s Snackin Wagon and Power-pit BBQ are open downtown. JPII is setup at Nutrien Morganfield location.

🍋 Lemon shakeups inside Sam's Una Pizza - Morganfield now until about 130! No pizza until 4 🫠

Hi everyone!!! We are still on, but another location change. Crossfit Competition will be at the Morganfield First Baptist Church. Lots of parking where (see purple on map) The orange color is where our event is normally set up for reference!!!

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Thank you and stay safe and dry at the Morganfield Lions Club Corn Festival!
Sincerely,
Morganfield Lions Club Board of Directors

Check Here for Updates on the Weather and Festival Status

Newly Revised Corn Festival Schedule as of 4:00 p.m.

Friday, September 27

3:30 p.m.​Band Slaton Trio/GLASTONE – Renaissance Stage

8:00 a.m.​Half pot sales - Jen’s General Store

9:00 a.m.​Old National Bank BINGO – moved to basement of Old National

3:30 p.m.​Cross Fit Competition Registration – moved to fire department

4:30 p.m.​Carnival Opens – weather permitting

5:00 p.m.​Little Mr & Miss Pageant – moved to St Ann Parish Hall

6:00 p.m.​Miss Pre-Teen Pageant – moved to St Ann Parish Hall

Saturday, September 28

8:00 a.m.​Lions Club Trailer Opens with half pot sales – HWY 56

8:00 a.m.​JPII 5K Run/Walk – postponed to November 2

9:00 a.m.​Baby Contest - moved to St Ann Parish Hall

9:30 a.m.​Tiny Miss and Mr Pageant - moved to St Ann Parish Hall

10:00 a.m.​Cub Scouts Cubmobile Races – cancelled due to weather

10:00 a.m.​Beard Contest - moved to fire department

10:30 a.m.​Corn Shucking Contest - moved to fire department

11:00 a.m.​Meet & Greet Nate Maness, MMA Fighter - UCB Branch, Main St.

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.The Balloon Guy weather permitting

12:00 p.m.​Carnival Opens – weather permitting

6:00 p.m.​Half-Pot Winner Will Be Drawn at Renaissance Stage

8:30 p.m.​Fireworks – weather permitting

Sunday, September 29

Food booths open downtown

11:00 a.m.​Line-up begin for parade – enter on Hwy 56 from the bypass to the lower entrance of park

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.The Balloon Guy weather permitting

12:00 p.m.​Carnival Opens – weather permitting

12:00 p.m.​Band 70’s on Sunday – Renaissance stage

2:00 p.m.​Parade starts

3:30 p.m.​Band Slaton Trio/GLASTONE – Renaissance Stage

Thank you and stay safe and dry at the Morganfield Lions Club Corn Festival!
Sincerely,
Morganfield Lions Club Board of Directors

2024 CORN FESTIVAL HONOREES

NFL Marshall

Click Here to View Interview with Channel 25's Sydney Davis.
[This links directly to Channel 25 video in a new Window.]

RENIE ANDERSON

Chief Revenue Officer and Executive Vice President, NFL Partnerships

Born and raised in Union County Kentucky, Renie Anderson, is the daughter of Steve and Callie Anderson and proud 1993 graduate of Union Country High School.

Renie has been an employee for 19 years at the NFL and was named by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell as the first ever Chief Revenue Officer and Executive Vice President, NFL Partnerships in March of 2019.

As the Chief Revenue Officer and Executive Vice President, NFL Partnerships, Renie oversees the League’s partnership divisions, including sponsorship, new business, consumer products, and media sales. A few key partners include, Pepsi, Microsoft, P&G, Verizon, Apple, Nike, New Era, EA, etc. Renie’s group works to leverage the goals and brands of the companies associated with the NFL with key initiatives including the NFL’s high-profile calendar initiatives such as Draft, Kickoff, Thanksgiving, Playoffs, Pro Bowl and Super Bowl with the country’s most avid fan base. This group also works to integrate partners in unique and authentic ways, including Surface Tablets on the sidelines of NFL games and Nike uniforms on the field.

In addition to her duties overseeing the League’s partnership divisions, Renie also is responsible for all media sales for the League’s owned and operated media assets including NFL Network and NFL Digital Media as well as the League’s business in legalized sports betting.

Renie joined the National Football League in 2006 after nine seasons at the Arena Football League. Renie graduated from Ole Miss in 1997 with a degree in Journalism. She is a Hall of Fame honoree of the SBJ 40 under 40, 2016 WISE Woman of the Year as well as a Game Changer in sports and entertainment honored by the SBJ. She resides in Darien, CT with her husband Chris McCloskey, and her daughters Callie and Kate.

Renie lead efforts in 2022 to raise funds of $250,000 in support of Western Kentucky following the devastating tornadoes that impacted the region. She has also supported UCHS students through annual scholoraships with the Steve Anderson Farm’s scholarship for female/male seniors.

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Honoring the Morganfield JayCees and JayCettes

This year, we proudly commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Morganfield Corn Festival, a beloved community tradition initiated by the Morganfield JayCees in 1974. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the JayCees for their visionary efforts and dedication in creating an event that has brought joy and unity to our town for half a century.

The Inception

Fifty years ago, the Morganfield JayCees saw an opportunity to celebrate our agricultural heritage and foster community spirit through a vibrant festival. Their initiative and hard work laid the foundation for what has become one of the most anticipated events in our town's calendar.

A Legacy of Joy

The Morganfield Corn Festival has grown tremendously over the years, bringing together families, friends, and visitors to enjoy parades, games, music, and, of course, delicious corn. It has become a symbol of our community's togetherness and pride.

Looking Forward

As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on the countless memories and friendships formed over the decades. We honor the Morganfield JayCees and JayCettesfor their foresight and commitment to enriching our community's cultural fabric. Here's to many more years of celebration and togetherness at the Morganfield Corn Festival!

Thank you, Morganfield JayCees, for planting the seed of what has grown into a cherished tradition. Happy 50th Anniversary to the Morganfield Corn Festival!

Dr H.M. “Bo” Smith Golden Kernel Award


2008

The Morganfield Lions Club voted to create an award to be given to an individual or organization that it deems has contributed most to “improve Union County”. This award will be given each year at the Morganfield Corn Festival to the person or organization from Union County chosen solely by the Morganfield Lions Club membership. The award is to be designated the “Dr Bo Smith Golden Kernel Award” in honor of its first recipient, Dr. H. W. “Bo” Smith. Bo’s long career as a dentist in Morganfield has included many years of service to the community. Membership in civic organizations is a measure of the man chosen to receive the Golden Kernel Award. Active participation in the charitable events as well as providing leadership and support make him worthy of receiving the first award and providing its name.

Bo presented the Corn Festival idea to the Junior Chamber of Commerce in 1974 as a tribute to the county’s largest industry, agriculture. The JC’s ran with it and thirty-six years later the Morganfield Corn Festival has helped deliver hundreds of thousands of dollars for eye-care and other needy services in Union County and around the world. Bo served as the Grand Marshall of the parade at the 10th anniversary. He also served as President of the Lions Club in 1990.

Awards Received:
Morganfield Jaycees Outstanding Young Man 1968
Morganfield Lions Club co Lion of the Year 1990
Janice Waller Community Service Award 2001
Kentucky Dental Association Fellowship Award 1999

Inducted into International College of Dentists 1992

Committee Members 1974 and 19755

Alvey, Damien
Bauer, Bill
Berry, Dickie
Byrd, Freddie
Bickett, Terry - Deceased
Brock, Mike - Deceased
Buchanan, Eddie - Deceased
Chandler, Mike
Cheatham, Dennis
Clements, David
Clements, Johnny - Deceased
Crowdus, Phil
Espy, Eddie - Deceased
Gamblin, Bill
Gipson, David - Deceased
Hagedorn, Don
Hagedorn, Ralph
Holt, Kenny
Hooper, Wayne - Co-Chairman
Jackson, Bill - Deceased
Jenkins, Larry J - Deceased
Lovell, Gary
Norris, Russell
Parrish, Mike - Deceased
Ruark, Jerry - Deceased
Scarberry, John
Shrote, Emmery
Smith, H.M. "Bo" - Original Idea for Corn Festival 1974
Veatch, Bob
Waller, Ben - Deceased
Watson, Bobby
Way, Rob
Weldon, Gary
Weldon, Joe
Whitledge, Buddy - Deceased
Woods, Earl Co-Chairman

Memorial

In Loving Memory of Jerry Manning

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear friend and long-time member of the Morganfield Lions Club, Jerry Manning. Jerry was a beacon of kindness, dedication, and community spirit, and his loss leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jerry joined the Morganfield Lions Club over three decades ago, bringing with him a heart full of generosity and a tireless work ethic. Throughout his years of service, he was a constant and reliable presence at every meeting, event, and fundraiser. His commitment to the Lions' mission of serving the community was unparalleled, and he exemplified the core values of our organization through his actions and his unwavering dedication.

Known for his warm smile and welcoming demeanor, Jerry made everyone feel valued and appreciated. He was always the first to volunteer for any task, no matter how big or small, and he approached every challenge with a positive attitude and a can-do spirit. His leadership and mentorship were instrumental in shaping the Morganfield Lions Club into the thriving organization it is today.

Beyond his service with the Lions, Jerry was a pillar of the Morganfield community. He could often be found lending a helping hand to neighbors, supporting local initiatives, and spreading joy wherever he went. His generosity knew no bounds, and his impact on the lives of those around him was immeasurable.

Jerry's legacy is one of selflessness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to others. His life was a testament to the power of community and the importance of giving back. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the incredible life he lived and the countless lives he touched.

To his family and loved ones, we extend our deepest condolences. Please know that Jerry's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him and that his spirit will continue to inspire us in our mission to serve.

Rest in peace, dear Jerry. Thank you for everything you have done for us. You will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.

2024 CORN FESTIVAL HALF POT RAFFLE

Half Pot Raffle Sales Have Begun!! As of August 26th, tickets may be purchased at Kemper CPA and Jen's General Store.

🎉 Exciting news from the Morganfield Lions Club Corn Festival! 🎉 We're thrilled to announce that we're expanding our offerings once again this year with the addition of a Half Pot Raffle! 🎟️ Tickets are just $5 each and will be available throughout the festival, starting Thursday, September 26, 2024. You can also grab your tickets early at Kemper CPA and Jen's General Store beginning today, August 26th. The lucky winner will be drawn at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the Renaissance Stage. Don't miss your chance to win big and support a great cause! 🌽💰

Assigned Exemption No. EXE0002800

Click here to download the Half Pot Exemption Form.


CORN SHUCKING CONTEST

Corn Shucking Contest is sponsored by Abba Promotions


There will be three age categories:

Boys/girls ages 14 and younger
Boys/girls ages 15 to 20
Adults ages 21 and above

Walk up applicants only!! No Corn Shucking Application is necessary. Join us at the Kemper CPA parking lot for this new fun event.

Contestants will step up to the table, which will be piled with corn. The whistle will blow and contestants will have 3 minutes to shuck as many ears of corn as possible. When the 3 minutes is up, whoever shucked the most ears of corn will win that heat and be presented with the trophy.

Once we've completed all three categories, the winners from each of those categories will compete to win the grand prize.
Three special corn cob trophies will be awarded to the winner of each category and a larger grand prize trophy will go to the overall winner.

Note: The shucked corn will be bagged and sold at the Lions Club Booth/Trailer.

The FFA members will be there to assist along with Grayson Moore.

NATE MANESS MEET AND GREET

Bio: My name is Nate Maness. I've been married 15 years with my wife Kasandra Maness. We have a 1 1/2 year old daughter named Audry and Nate's son 11 years old Kayden. I am a professional Mixed Martial Arts fighter with a pro record of 16-3. I'm a UFC veteran with a combined UCF record of 5-2. I held 3 professional championships and 5 amateur champsionships. I've been training in MMA for 15 years and I'm a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Nate is sponsored by United Community Bank. Stop by the UCB Branch on Main St. between 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Saturday before the Parade to meet MMA Fighter Nate Maness.


Schedule of Events

Subject to Change Until Monday September 23rd

Lions Club Information Trailer Open Daily
Corn Festival Half Pot Raffle tickets may be purchased+ beginning August 26th at the following locations: Kemper CPA and Jen's General Store.
Cruise In Route 56 Car Show Saturday 9/7 5-8:00 p.m.
Eagles 8 Ball Tournament - Saturday 9/21/2024 4:30 - 9:00 p.m.: Sponsored by Eagles Club
Half-Price Bracelet Night Thursday 4:30-9:00 p.m.: Sponsored by Vaughn, Geiger and Associates
Dr. Brittany French-Clevidence, Air Evac and A New Leaf

2024 CORN FESTIVAL SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM

EVENT OVERVIEW: The Lions Club Corn Festival is a vibrant community event featuring a carnival, vendors, pageants, live bands, and a half-pot raffle. To support the festival and ensure its success, we are offering a range of sponosorship opportunities for local businesses and organizations.

SPONSORSHIP BENEFITS:
- Increased visibility and brand awareness through association with a beloved community event.
- Direct engagement with local residents and visitors.
- Networking opportunities with other sponsors and community leaders.
- Demonstrated support for the Lions Club and its community-focused initiatives.

HOW TO SPONSOR: Interested sponsors can use the link below or contact a member of the Lions Club Corn Festival Sponsorship Committee at [email address] or [phone number].

ALL SPONSORSHIPS WILL INCLUDE:
- Exclusive branding at the event you choose to sponsor - you must provide any signage you want displayed, we will take care of hanging it and taking it down and then you can pick it up after the event is over.
- Banners for your business will be displayed during the event (You provide).
- All advertising for the event will include your business name/logo.
- If awards/trophies/medals are given your business name/logo will be on them.
- You will receive a "50th Anniversary Morganfield Festival Sponsor"sticker you can display at your business.

Click Here to Sign Up for an event.






2024 JPII 5K Run/Walk

John Paul ll 5K Run Walk Race

5K


2024 BANDS

Jeremiah Slaton 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Music at Renaissance Corner


Jeremiah Slaton...


70 On Sunday 10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Music at Courthouse Steps before the Parade


Just a mix of Kentucky and Illinois guys who love to play music and have good time. Hobbies include long walks on the beach and blistering guitar solos


Glastone 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Music at Renaissance Corner


Glastone performs...


Tyler Garrett 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Music at Front of Renaissance Corner


Tyler Garrett...