Cranberry Township will kick off a year-long celebration of America with the unveiling of the Township’s America250 Bells Across PA display.
The event is set for 5:30 p.m. Thursday, February 26, at the Cranberry Township Municipal Center, 2525 Rochester Road. It is held in partnership with the America250 Butler Committee and Experience Butler County.
Cranberry Township will unveil and display “The Butler Bell,” which was designed by Butler-based artist Tom Panei. It depicts an abstract depiction of Butler County, prominently featuring the Butler County Courthouse, a shining sun, music notes, and more. FirstEnergy sponsored its creation.
The ceremony is slated to feature the presentation of the American flag by VFW Post 879, a performance by members of the Butler County Symphony Orchestra, and remarks from Bruce Hezlep, Cranberry Township Board of Supervisors Chair; Leslie Osche, Butler County Commissioner; and Robi Lombardo, Regional External Affairs Consultant for FirstEnergy.
It is one of two bells on display in Butler County, with the other – “The Butler County Heritage Bell” by artist Paula Slomer - housed at the Butler County Courthouse. The bells will remain on display through December 2026.
The bells are part of America250, a nationwide initiative commemorating and celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The goal of the effort is to inspire the community to reflect on the past and renew a commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite.