SMITHSONIAN EXHIBIT OPENS HERE

Many dignitaries were on hand for the ribbon cutting Saturday to signify the grand opening of the Smithsonian exhibit, Crossroads—Change in Rural America, that will be available for view at the Visitors’ Center on the Square from now until January 11.

The exhibit includes interactive displays, and Saturday’s festivities included, after the ribbon cutting, a chance to view the exhibit. Then the Color Guard from the American Legion raised the flag, and Centennial families were recognized (see page 2). Later there was a panel discussion about agriculture (see page 2) in the Courthouse, and children’s activities in the Bank of Monticello annex. The exhibit is now open.

Numerous people from the U.S. Department of Agriculture were on hand as were local elected officials and the Smithsonian Team. State Rep. Susan Holmes was on hand as was Monticello Mayor Pro-tem Stone Workman and Council persons Jenny Murphy and David Wease.

Commission Chair Carl Pennamon was on hand, as was Commissioner Don Jernigan. The exhibit hours are Monday-Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, contact the Visitors’ Center at 706-468-8994.