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

 There were a number of thoughts that arose in planning for this year’s Medallion Hunt.   First, did we want to have it or cancel?   The answer seemed obvious- “let’s do it!”   People have lost so many traditions this year- especially the Marigold Festival- so why not bring back this small part of it? Coronavirus related safety concerns are extremely low by nature. It has always been an example of “social distancing”. Hunters truly keep to themselves. Another thought was that because of all that has happened this year, I didn’t want the hiding location to be extremely remote.   Therefore I chose Coal Miners Park, a centrally located spot. Finally, I thought that with people staying home more frequently, a more “stay-in-place” mental exercise was called for.   How would I craft a clue that required more extensive research but which could yield an answer right from home?   This led to key themes that related to Loretta Lynn- the “Coal Miners Daughter” and a reference to General Ber

The Pepsi Marigold Medallion was found shortly after the release of Clue #8! The winning group of hunters worked the clues together and are pictured below, with Cluemeister Gary Gillis.  The winners are: Kyndall Zander, Todd Vansaghi, Jake Vansaghi, Seth Ranney and Rachel Ranney.  Kyndall Zander, Todd Vansaghi and Seth Ranney worked together before and also found the medallion in 2017.  Rachel Ranney was also a previous winner in 2005.  Congrats to this team! 

  Clue #8 Over a bridge then a southpaw’s bend. Up through the trees not far away In brown wrapping, beneath a black rock Far from a bright shiny day.   Tread determinedly on the pavement  Seek a triangle of green. It’s posted very clearly. Go deeply northward for a rewarding scene.  

  Clue #7 Are you getting a kick out of this? The fallen mighty now black and blue. Well off a path the task is hard. Perhaps you're a little stumped too. Seek something that looks out of place. A paperweight so curious critters will not seek. Four score came another flick. Then walk with nature and end this streak.

  Clue #6 Near Mickey and not far from Indy Places nearby on a state map Sounds of a First Lady And a Fab Four song from a rooftop wrap. Perhaps it’s time to view from above. It’s really up to you. Could call it a flipped flattening curve. Then do what you have to do,

Clue # 5   A British Sir whose plans went awry, Many, many years ago. Generally things didn’t work out as planned. A double seven flick once told us so.   Friction can often serve a purpose. Here it helps keep bad things away. It’s all in how you heed the warning. Can dampen your enthusiasm on some days.

  Clue # 4   As we traverse through our lives, We experience our ups and downs Working always to make the grade Under the watch of smiles and frowns   It is what it is and it was what it was, Moving but standing still. A quotidian outlook is always there At a pace that tests your will 

  Clue # 3   I introduce a new in-depth reference For all who want to work this from home. A means to perhaps see from a different angle Studying maps will help as you roam”     17 places have her in their state Neighboring Wisconsin, the Sunshine State too. Places known for Revere and Bill Clinton  Find the name and you have a great clue.

Clue #2   Focused and determined research, Helps if you’re staying in place. Study of geographic similarities Covered more as we get into this race   It points the way without really pointing, But which way should you go? Once you think you see it, You’ll be traveling to and fro”

  Clue # 1   Back to give you some normalcy Always an exercise in social distance But first I want you to study the rules Upon this I make an unprecedented insistence.   The prize will never be in a flowerbed, Or anywhere exposed to possible destruction You don’t need tools or any feats of strength  Simply follow the hunt’s instructions.  

Medallion Hunt Disclaimer The official disclaimer for the 2020 Pepsi Marigold Medallion Hunt – Changes have been made due to the unintended destruction of property in recent years.   Please be attentive and protective of all property.   The Pepsi Marigold Medallion WILL be found on PUBLIC property—either within or contiguous to city boundaries, or property owned by a Pekin public body.  It is NOT hidden in any seasonal plantings or landscaping in Mineral Springs Park or elsewhere, on any golf course, inside the PCHS stadium’s fenced area, inside the Dragonland fenced area, inside any school facility, or on the property of the Pekin Archery Range or the UAW High rise.  While it might be hidden on school property, it will not be hidden in shrubs, bushes, or plantings immediately against the schools. The Medallion is NOT hidden within the landscaping at the Pekin Public Library or in close proximity to the Pekin Federal Prison's perimeter fence.  Hunters do not need to dig up