Press release from the Wellington Area Chamber of Commerce
WELLINGTON, Kan. - This year the winning 116th Kansas Wheat Festival Button was designed by Samson Ledesma of Wellington. Ledesma is a proud Kansan and passionate about the history and future of the Kansas Wheat Festival. He grew up in the Wheat Capital of the World and enjoys raising his family in his hometown. Samson is an independent artist offering video production, graphic design, and both digital and traditional illustration. See some of his work online at samsonswell.blogspot.com, samsonswell.com or connect with him on Facebook at facebook.com/SamsonsWell. Ledesma currently has a display of some of his traditional portrait illustrations at the Wellington Public Library, now through the first week of May.
This year the button showcases a modern design featuring two silhouettes, one of a grain elevator and the other of the classic carousel that is present each year at the Kansas Wheat Festival from Ottaway Amusement Co. The pleasing aesthetic of this button design features golden wheat and a golden sun full of opportunity and warmth.
As the winning designer, he will receive $500 in cash, two Kansas Wheat Festival t-shirts and two buttons along with all the bragging rights. Once the premier sponsor is selected the official button will include the premier sponsor’s logo.
This year the Kansas Wheat Festival will be featuring several new events – including the Wheat Capital Quilt Show, Edible Book Display Contest, Esteemed Townsfolk Spelling Bee and much, much more! The planning committee also intends to add a Fishing Tournament, Disc Golf Tournament, Wheat Homebrew Contest.
Classic components of the Kansas Wheat Festival include Picnic in the Park, Family Fun Day, Arts & Craft Show, Car Show, Downtown Art Exhibit, Parade, Softball Tournament, Candidate Forum, Ag & Home Show and three Street Dances featuring, Little Texas, The Mudbugs and Across the Pond.
To join the Kansas Wheat Festival planning team, email the Kansas Wheat Festival Director, Annarose White at wellingtonkschamber@gmail.com or call 620-326-7466. To sign up to receive updates from the Chamber and Kansas Wheat Festival, sign up for the newsletter online at www.wellingtonkschamber.com.
