The Stuart Sesquicentennial Planning Committee says “all aboard” for those who wish to see a successful 150th anniversary celebration of the town as they keep “On the Right Track.”

One project where the public’s assistance is needed is through the beautification and legacy committee. The committee recently received a $2,000 grant from the Empowering Adair County Foundation to replace the wooden sign at Lawbaugh Park. Sesquicentennial Marketing Head Tracy Mahlstadt says the sign was installed by a civic group decades ago, and though it was appreciated at that time, the committee feels it needs an upgrade. The committee has not completed their fundraising for the project, so Mahlstadt says the public’s support is appreciated, “That is a project that is an opportunity for the community members to contribute to, big or small, and we’d love to be able to get that in place before the event.”

The current rendering of the sign has a brick base with a black metal sign with golden lettering, similar to two welcome signs on the south and east sides of town. Mahlstadt says donations can be left at Rolling Hills Bank in Stuart, or it can be mailed to the Stuart Chamber of Commerce at P.O. Box 425 in Stuart. The next joint committee meeting for the sesquicentennial will be held on Tuesday, February 4th at 6 p.m. at the First Congregational Church, and is open to all who are interested. More information on how to volunteer or help organize the celebration can event co-chairs Lisa Sherman at 515-249-3808 or Cheryl Marks at 515-480-0767.