Pekin Marigold Festival Medallion Hunt Sponsored by Jimmy John's ®

Life's a mystery. Life is unpredictable. Such are the characteristics that I have always seen for the Pepsi Marigold Medallion Hunt. I had planned on a different hiding place. But then when driving by the Miller Center one day I thought, "Hey, why not there again?" "How about back-to-back?" It would be a change and it would certainly address those comments that I've heard such as, "I've got it figured out" or "I know how he thinks." It would also address those concerns expressed over accessibility in outer or larger parks and school yards. You could literally park a car inches from the location. There would be logistical problems however. I wanted to stay away from the Miller Center building so that left some spots very much out in the open. Therefore, I would have to carefully disguise, or camouflage, the Medallion so that it wouldn't be found with a simple cursory look. So, taking some of the branches from the very bus...

It's official, the Pepsi Marigold Medallion has been found! It was found at about 10:45am by Justin Clark (left) and Chet Strickfaden in a set of bushes north of the Miller Center parking lot. More details and the explanation of clues will be released soon.

Have I put you in the middle of a crisis, Yet quiet comfort almost lost in this space? Islands in rectangles of blackness, May point to the treasured place. But a ripple effect may affect you, So many they're passing you by. Casting glances and casual gazing; Under the watch of a constant eye.

Strung out from a busy weekend? You missed something I've not done before. So now I must get you closer. Here's a detectable warning, so now you'll know the score. Please exercise caution carefully, As I leave uneven signs. I will send you in different directions, As you're driven by my warped, crazy mind.

For those of you who enjoy counting, Seek out a quarter, then three. Your ultimate goal is to find part of the whole. But, by George, it's not easy to see. Are you feeling more than unlucky? Here's that theme I try to convey. Like two duelers ready to do battle; There's a method to their madness and ways.

I refrain from getting too distant, Yet I must be subtle in my various themes. You must cautiously review everything, Since many hints are not as they seem. In life one discovers bumps in the road; A connection between sight and sounds. When you find it you'll know the feeling. And a plethora of colors abounds.

Tall and majestic, you don't really see them; As ever higher you may go. Many hunters seek different levels, When traveling to and fro. A good detective leaves out nothing. They even look for references that make no sense. Knowing that innocent errors and confusion, May hinder their defense.

A true hunter possesses many talents. The challenged know where to start and finish. There really is nothing holding them back. But the rest of us might feel a bit skittish. We must make that jump periodically. It's something officially deemed to be. Much deliberation as you make your choices; Standing near the edge seeing how far that you can see.

The landscape may not be familiar; So much green of various heights. Sometimes it's hard to do all the counting, As they tell you what's left of your rights. Some things have never been finished, As you go out and traversing about. I use camouflage in what I'm expressing. Look carefully since there's no room for doubt.

Clue # 1 Always remember the name Dave Tebben, The one who gave this event its name. He endeavored not make this too difficult, But still made you earn your fame. For me, concepts always have their usage; Nuances and things that aren't meant to be Go out and you may find it surrounded, But watch carefully for poison ivy Disclaimer The Pepsi-Marigold Medallion WILL be found on PUBLIC property. It is not hidden on any golf course, inside the stadium area, inside Dragonland, inside any school facility, around the Sun Dial, or in close proximity to the Pekin Archery Range and the U.A.W. Highrise. The Medallion is NOT hidden within a recessed light fixture at the Pekin Public Library or in close proximity to the Pekin Federal Prison's fenced perimeter. It will NOT be found within a flower bed. And this year it will NOT be at or around the Pekin Train Depot. It is NOT hidden in a location that necessitates taking extra-ordinary physical risks. Finally, be on the watch for Poison Ivy ...

The first clue for the 2009 Pepsi Marigold Medallion Hunt will be released on Monday, August 31st. Clues will be released daily thereafter, with the exception of Sunday and Labor Day, until the medallion is found. DISCLAIMER The Pepsi Marigold Medallion will not be hidden on any golf course (public or private), inside Pekin Community High School stadium, Dragonland, inside any school facility, flowerbed, around the Sun Dial, or in close proximity to the Pekin Archery Range or the U.A.W. Highrise. The medallion will not be placed in a recessed lighting fixture at the Pekin Public Library or Dirksen Congressional Center. The medallion also will not be placed near the fence at the Federal Bureau of Prisons. No location will be selected that requires physical risk. Be careful to look out for poison ivy and poison oak. Also, please be respectful of the property that you are on and considerate of your fellow hunters. The Grand Prize is a 4 Day / 3 Night trip for two to Cancun, Mexico or Las ...

This year's hunt is dedicated to the memory of Dave Tebben, the Medallion Hunt founder and clue writer from 1978 to 1984. The photo above is the front of the actual medallion, which will be hidden in the next few weeks. The authenticity of the medallion is guaranteed by what is written on the back. The first clue will be released on Monday, August 31st, and will be available in a number of media outlets, including this blog: http://medallionhunt.blogspot.com

The first clue will be released on Monday, August 31st. Who will find the Pepsi Marigold Medallion this year?