On March 26, 2022, Steve Newman will be signing limited edition commemorative hats, pictured, at the Bethel History Museum from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. There, people will also be able to register for Bethel’s Walk With Steve Newman event on April 1, 2022, and receive their t-shirt, backpack, and medal to wear during the walk. Photo provided.
The big day is almost here – register now for Bethel’s Walk With Steve Newman event on April 1.
Don’t miss out on the big celebration to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Bethel homecoming at the end of Bethel-Tate High School’s Steve Newman’s solo walk around the world.
The village and the Bethel Historical Society & Museum are partnering to put together the celebration.
So far, registrations are at about 150, according to Bethel Historical Society & Museum President Judi Adams.
“We are getting and more excited as the days go by, getting ready for this 35t Anniversary Walk of Steve Newman’s Homecoming from his four-year walk around the world,” Adams said.
The community is invited to join in the celebration. Opportunities are listed as:
– On April 1, organizers will recreate Newman’s April 1, 1987, return to his hometown of Bethel. Participants can meet at East Fork State Park to walk to Bethel’s Burke Park (about 4.5 miles) with Newman leading the way.
During the walk, currently scheduled to start at 10:00 a.m., one lane of state Route 125 will be closed to provide a safe walking environment. Shuttle service will be provided to transport attendees to their cars parked at East Fork State Park and the Grant Career Center at the end of the event.
– Join Newman and the walkers as they pass by Grant Career Center, and continue with them to Burke Park, a distance of about 1.5 miles.
– Meet at Burke Park to welcome Newman and the walkers, and participate in the celebration of his Guinness Book of World Records accomplishment.
The first 200 people to register will receive gifts, say the event organizers. To register, visit www.bethelohiohistorymuseum.com, and follow the link.
Adams explained that in the lead up to the big day, Newman has been busy speaking at Grant Career Center, Bethel Tate schools, and other community groups. On Mach 19, Newman visited the Clermont County Public Library Bethel Branch where 10 Bethel Middle School students had a book signing for the books that they wrote and published, with the encouragement of their teacher, Denae Jones, Adams explained.
“[Newman] was very excited about supporting these new young authors and encourages journalism. The middle school hosted an essay contest, and six lucky winners were chosen to walk with Steve on April 1 along with their teacher. They are really looking forward to joining him,” Adams said, adding that all school students have been invited to come outside and cheer Steve and the other walkers on as they walk into Bethel.
On March 26, Newman will be signing limited edition commemorative hats at the Bethel History Museum from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. People will also be able to register for the anniversary walk and receive their t-shirt, backpack, and medal to wear during the walk.
Adams explained that the March 26 event will be the last opportunity for registrants to pick up their bags before the April 1 walk. Proceeds from the walk will go to the Bethel Historical Society and Museum at the Grant Memorial Building on the corner of Plane and main Streets in Bethel.