From staff reports

LEWISTOWN — Community groups and organizers across Mifflin and Juniata counties are preparing a growing list of events and activities as part of celebrations leading up to America’s 250th anniversary.

Organizers said America250-themed merchandise, including pins, stickers, posters, keychains and other items, is now available through the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau’s online store. Free downloadable activities, including a Flat Goose Washington printout and coloring page, are also available online.

A weekly schedule of local America250 events is posted each Monday on the America250PA — Mifflin County Facebook page.

Several events are planned throughout the coming weeks.

Country Memories Day is scheduled for May 23 in McVeytown and will feature appearances by portrayals of George and Martha Washington, along with members of the Cumberland County Militia at the McVeytown Masonic Lodge. The Rothrock Museum will also distribute America250 merchandise during the event.

Memorial Day activities are planned May 25 in both Mifflin and Juniata counties. Belleville will host a parade and memorial service beginning at 9:30 a.m.

In Mifflintown, Civil War reenactors will conduct a memorial ceremony at 9:30 a.m. on the front lawn of the Juniata County Courthouse before a parade through the community.

Juniata County’s “Celebrates America 250” event is scheduled for June 13 at Lost Creek Community Park in McAlisterville. The event will feature colonial-era music and entertainment, including an appearance by Goose Washington, the Goose Day mascot.

Also on June 13, the Angels of Bigfoot Country organization will host a daylong music festival at the Mifflin County Youth Park.

Applications are still being accepted for the Mifflin County America250 Parade, scheduled for July 18 in Allensville. Organizers said groups and individuals interested in participating can contact organizers by phone or email for additional information.

Residents are also encouraged to participate in the “Postcards to the Future” project, which invites community members to submit postcards for placement in a time capsule beneath the Mifflin County Liberty Bell. Postcards are available at the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau office.

Statewide activities are also planned for July 4 as part of the America250PA celebration.

Through a partnership with the National Flag Foundation, communities are encouraged to participate in the “Light to Unite” campaign by illuminating buildings in red, white and blue. Organizers are also encouraging communities to ring bells at public buildings and churches at noon to commemorate 250 years of American independence.

More information is available through the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau.