Xenia Community Festival News

The Second Annual Xenia Community Festival will be September 14 and 15 in downtown Xenia. The Parade will be held on Saturday, September 15th, at 9 a.m. with our Grand Marshall, Thomas J. Craft Sr. Ph. D.

Having Dr. Thomas Craft as the Grand Marshall this year is a tremendous compliment to the Xenia Community Festival. Dr. Craft was recently awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor in the United States. Dr. Craft is also a gifted educator and scientist. Originally from Monticello, Kentucky, Dr. Craft graduated from East High School in Xenia and went on to obtain three college academic degrees. He has served at Central State University, Florida Memorial College and Wright State University as a Professor of Biological Sciences, Dean of Faculty, Division Director and Adjunct Professor of Anatomy. Dr. Craft also served for three years in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. His scientific research contributed to improved procedures in skin grafting and an understanding of how melanin in the skin affects the human body. As an educator, Dr. Craft impacted the lives of thousands of students. As a citizen, he has served on local, national and international board of directors. The Festival Committee is truly honored to have such a distinguished leader of our community as Grand Marshall for 2012.

The parade is expected to bring residents, business, organization, schools, and the community at large together. The parade route will be the same as last year, starting from Shawnee Park and ending at the Kmart parking.

The Festival Committee also thanks Festival Event Partner Greene Memorial Hospital/KHN for its sponsorship this year. The Committee is still seeking businesses and organizations as Festival sponsors. Sponsorship, Vendor and Parade Entry forms are available on the Festival website, www.xeniacommunityfestival.com, or the Xenia Area Chamber website, www.xacc.com. For further information, contact the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, 372-3591. Check out the Festival Facebook page at www.facebook.com/XeniaCommunityFestival