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Coldwater Mayor Doug Bertke joined WCSM’s Spectrum for a special conversation focused on Coldwater’s plans tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. Bertke said the village is connecting the milestone to its annual Red, White, and Blue Celebration and adding a major historical piece: the unearthing of a time capsule buried 50 years ago. The capsule is located at Memorial Park in front of the pool, and Bertke said many residents remember it being buried but few, if any, remember what was placed inside. He said there is limited documentation beyond a few photos and coverage from the original ceremony, making the opening a true mystery for the community.

Bertke said the time capsule was buried in 1976 during the United States Bicentennial and that Coldwater plans to honor that history while also capturing life in 2026. He said the capsule is scheduled to be unearthed on April 13, with the contents expected to be cataloged and displayed throughout the summer. The Coldwater Public Library will assist with organizing and preserving the items, and the village hopes to create a public display so residents can see what Coldwater looked like 50 years ago. Bertke said any new written materials planned for the next capsule must meet archival standards so they will last for decades without deteriorating. He said the village is also exploring contributions from local organizations and businesses to reflect current community life.

Bertke said the new time capsule will not be reburied immediately, as the village wants time to properly design and build a new capsule around the final list of approved items. He said the reburial is expected later in the summer or early fall, likely after the Coldwater Community Picnic to avoid disrupting one of the park’s and library’s biggest annual events. Looking ahead to July 4, Bertke said the Red, White, and Blue Celebration will continue as planned, with multiple bands and a bigger feel this year since the holiday falls on a Saturday. He said the village wants to enhance the weekend without taking attention away from the established celebration. Bertke said the community is also looking at added involvement and fun around town, including the possibility of decoration ideas and other patriotic displays.

The mayor also highlighted ways for families to stay involved all summer, including Coldwater’s summer concert series and other community events like Taste of the Town. He said the village is working through details on an essay contest designed to involve students as part of the 250th celebration, with winners expected to be recognized publicly. Bertke encouraged anyone interested in submitting an item for the time capsule or learning more about the celebration to contact the Village of Coldwater or follow updates through the Coldwater 250th Celebration committee and its Facebook page.

Bertke also spoke briefly about supporting local athletics, including plans to attend and cheer on area bowling teams competing at the state level. He noted the strong representation from Mercer County and the MAC across multiple sports and said it is another point of pride for the region. The full Spectrum interview with Mayor Doug Bertke aired on WCSM and is part of the station’s ongoing coverage of local events and community initiatives.