2024 Jackson Days Race To The Keys

It's time to celebrate Jackson Days
And the first key to be found.
I'm hiding where it's safe and sound
A little ways above the ground.

I'm not by the track but I'm still here
Somewhere in the community.
When you get close to me look north
A large evergreen is what you'll see.

Some birds aren't meant to be caged
Their feathers are just too bright.
I can be found just hanging out
The red sign says 50, lettering in white.

You will need to be very careful
But make sure you're not too late.
Someone else might find me first
If they are looking in 6 of 8!

The Jackson Nationals will get started
In just a couple of days.
Sprint cars will come from all over
To go up the other hill and race!

Don't look down low to find me
Above eye level is where I'll be.
My view from here is not that lovely
Oh, the plates - I'm between the three

I'm not actually on the outside
so I really can't see much.
But I can hear a lot of exciteent,
When someone comes through in the clutch.

My days can sometimes be very long,
Except when the temperatures soar.
Then it's hard for me to nap
Because the noise becomes a roar!

I am literally sandwiched in between
Bank Midwest and UP
I'm sitting on a board, attached to a post
So very easy to see!

If you want to locate me; you must stay on task
Or you and your team will certainly not outlast

I'm located in a place where new things are happening
So you better stay alert and stop that reexamining

People who swing may be in my view or
Perhaps you're hungry and need a drive thru.

Blue Mountains and Loons are truly a delight
You can see them close by, just don't be impolite.

Stone walls and gates are made to protect
However my location isn't where you'd expect.

I can see a tower from were I sit, "can you hear me now"?
If you look behind the stone then you can take a bowl,

This is the last clue for Jackson Days 2024
We hope you've had fun and look forward to more.

The clue I am about to give might seem a little nutty
But hang on to your boots
You might get a little muddy.

The forecast today calls for rain, I fear
And that might slow things down a bit.
But follow directions and listen to the words
and you fill find the key that will fit.

The place to look has grass all around
And maybe a barrier or two.
Don't break the law to find me please
If you do, Sheriff Hakin might tack on some fees.

Are you stumped as to where I am at
I'm guessing most of you are.
Soon enough the answer you will know,
If you see the old Jackson High School mascot
A little farther you must go.

I have some legs on which I stand
But I haven't moved in years
I do not sit or walk or bark
But to my east you will find the mark.