By Staff Report
The Holmes County Tourist Development Council met Monday, May 18, taking action on several funding requests, including support for community fireworks shows, a major contribution toward the new Jumbotron planned for Memorial Field in Bonifay, and other tourism‑related initiatives.
Council members accepted revised grant applications from Waukesha Way and the Esto Fire Department, along with a new grant application from the Town of Ponce de Leon for upcoming fireworks shows. The TDC had previously approved funding for the fireworks proposals contingent upon revisions reflecting the approved total of $10,000. The updated and new applications were submitted and formally accepted.
Representatives from the Holmes County School Board attended the meeting to express appreciation for the collaborative effort behind the construction of a new Jumbotron at Memorial Field. The TDC approved a $35,000 grant toward the project, which carries an estimated total cost of $125,000. Funding contributions also include $35,000 from the school district, $20,000 from the Bonifay Kiwanis Club, and the remaining amount from Buffalo Rock Pepsi.
The new Jumbotron will be installed at the northeast corner of the field, opposite the existing scoreboard, to better face the home‑side stands. The structure will include a scoreboard integrated into the lower portion of the display. The motion passed unanimously. During discussion, it was confirmed that training will be provided for operating the system and that the school district will assume responsibility for running the equipment during games and events.
In other business, the council approved a grant request from the UF/IFAS Extension Office in partnership with the Lead for America fellowship program. The fellowship is funded through a $73,000 grant with a $23,000 match, a match the TDC has provided in previous years. The program supports a full‑time “Fellow” who receives training and mentorship while assisting with local programming. The current fellow has served in the role for the past three years, helping UF/IFAS expand events and outreach efforts. The motion to continue funding was approved.
Following that item, the TDC voted to accept the verbal resignation of council member Joe Rone, which had been submitted at the previous meeting.
Skyla Carter 