Hope Advertising and Tourist Commission Prepares for Watermelon Festival, Approves Field Equipment and Social Media Campaign

The Hope Advertising and Tourist Promotion Commission convened Tuesday, July 8, to finalize preparations for the upcoming Watermelon Festival and address several key items, including field maintenance equipment, promotional efforts, and permit discussions. The meeting with Dr. Trevor Coffee, Milko Smith, Juan Rivera, and Mayor Don Still opened with the approval of previous minutes and financial reports.

With the Fourth of July festivities concluded, the commission’s attention has shifted to the Watermelon Festival, scheduled for August 7–9. In anticipation of softball, soccer, and potential cornhole tournaments, staff reported the park’s field groomer had broken down, forcing manual preparation that doubled the workload. At the request of staff member Ronald Kidd, the commission approved the purchase of a new three-wheel field drag to ensure the fields are ready for the festival.

Promotional efforts were also a focus. The community leadership group is collaborating with SWARK to develop a new tourism logo featuring the branding “Experience Hope,” which was selected through community consensus. New promotional content is expected ahead of the festival.

Brandi Tuttle announced the launch of a new Instagram account to boost the city’s online presence. She requested—and received—$300 from the commission to fund a prize basket for a social media contest tied to the campaign.

The meeting concluded without further discussion. Afterward, Mayor Don Still commented on the recent Fourth of July celebration, saying the event went well and that residents can expect continued improvements in the future.