Cherry Blossom Festival wins 12 international awards

In a worldwide competition, the Cherry Blossom Festival captured a dozen awards this week from the International Festival and Events Association.

Macon’s signature celebration won Gold Awards for best website and best new event with Beers, Brats and Brushstrokes.

The festival won Silver Awards for its organizational website; clothing; community outreach; Pink, White & Blue Ball honoring Wounded Warriors; money-making idea with Steeple Chase and Blossoms Tour; vendor -- Drew Exposition Amusement Rides; and the most effective or creative news stunt where a 96-year-old rode Oscar the camel at Central City Park.

Cherry Blossom organizers also won bronze for emergency preparedness and risk management, Food Truck Frenzy and its merchandising program.

This story was originally published October 2, 2014 at 7:48 AM with the headline "Cherry Blossom Festival wins 12 international awards ."