Waynesboro’s Boro Bash celebrated the USA’s 250th with speeches, history, music, and American-style fun
By Robb Helfrick
Waynesboro’s Boro Bash celebrated America’s 250th anniversary at Main Street Park on a pleasant Saturday evening, with a variety of patriotic, symbolic, and festive activities.
Mainstreet Waynesboro sponsored the August 22 event, which featured speeches by local government officials, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, history exhibits, live music, and fun for citizens of all ages- including a hot dog-eating contest.
Mainstreet’s Bill Kohler served as the MC for the festivities, as late-summer weather provided a comfortable outdoor atmosphere in the park, and a light breeze sent American flags fluttering. Singer Gwendolyn Magras started the program with a moving rendition of the National Anthem.
Mayor Dade Royer took the stage next, delivering his thoughts about the event’s significance. Royer raved about the downtown banner project that made Waynesboro’s America 250 celebration a unique observance. Over 100 banners now line Main Street, promoting historical references to both local and national accomplishments. When the mayor introduced Greg Small, one of three artists who spearheaded that project, he said the trio “did an excellent job; they exceeded our expectations.”
Greg Small spoke on behalf of the other two artists, Larry Selman and Andy Smetzer, who could not attend the event. “They say that everything begins with an idea,” Small said. “The mayor and Larry Selman had an idea to hang banners along Main Street for our July 4th 250th celebration. That idea grew to 107 finished banners.”
Small thanked his wife, two art partners, the borough council, Mainstreet Waynesboro, the Franklin County tourism bureau, the Rotary Club, and also many other contributors and sponsors.
Mayor Royer closed his remarks with a prayer and was followed at the podium by State Representative Chad Reichard. Reichard said it was appropriate to celebrate America’s 250th on August 22 or any day, since its significance didn’t end on July 4. Reichard’s remarks reflected admiration for the Boro Bash organizers, who were undaunted by the July 4th heat wave and rescheduled the bash for August. Rep. Reichard also stated that the next 250 years of American history would be written in communities like Waynesboro.
Local author and historian John Poniske walked to the podium next, accompanied by his wife, Jenny. Dressed in period clothing and a top hat, John delivered a spirited reading of the Declaration of Independence.
Several exhibitors in Main Street Park showcased historical information that tied local contributions to America’s 250 years of success. The Waynesboro Industrial Museum sponsored a display, which highlighted the area’s manufacturing legacy and the success of industry icons such as Frick, Landis, and Geiser. The Waynesboro Historical Society also displayed several exhibits highlighting local achievements throughout the years.
A special vehicle owned by Steve Barry made an appearance at Saturday’s event. Barry’s Ford Mustang was customized with special artwork to remember the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. This patriotic car will lead a procession of first-responder vehicles down Waynesboro’s Main Street on 9/11/26, ending at Red Run Park, where a ceremony will recall the 25th anniversary of that tragic day.
Another unique vehicle featured at Boro Bash was an antique Mack Truck that dispensed beer for Rough Edges Brewing. Several food trucks were also on-site for the event, and Midlife Crisis Band played 70s and 80s tunes, which inspired spontaneous dancing.
The evening concluded with a truly American competition, normally held on July 4th. The Boro Bash’s hot-dog eating contest featured seven contestants, all men, who were challenged with a plate of dogs prepared by Mainstreet Waynesboro’s grill masters. After a drumroll, the hungry gentlemen had four minutes to wolf down as many wieners as possible.
One contestant showed a strategy for success by standing for the entire duration, seizing an early lead. Jesse Tyler finished his first plate of seven hot dogs, and a new batch was delivered. When time ran out, Tyler had eaten 8 hot dogs and raised his arms triumphantly. His fellow competitors applauded, and his kids were also impressed by their dad’s performance. Former Waynesboro chili-dog-eating champion Mark Creager had a good showing, finishing second by devouring a half-dozen hot dogs. Creager saved enough room for a beer afterward.
Some Boro Bash partygoers dressed up for the occasion, with many sporting red, white, and blue specialty headwear, face paintings, and patriotic clothing. Mainstreet Waynesboro handed out tiny American flags, and many people wore the organization’s handsome patriotic “I Love the Boro” T-shirts. The event ran smoothly with help from a group of dedicated MW staff and volunteers.
Boro Bash had all the elements of a memorable evening, containing both serious ceremonies and lighthearted fun. Mayor Royer summed up the event by saying: “It was great to see the community come together to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our country. A big thank you to Mainstreet Waynesboro for organizing a wonderful event, and to all the speakers, participants, and the band who helped make the celebration special.”
