Valley City, Ohio >> Frogs >> Frog Jump Festival >> Founders
Frog Jump Founders

Andy Neff

 
In 1962 a group of residents was planning for the Sesquicentennial (150th) Celebration of the settling of Liverpool Township (Valley City).   They discussed the desire for some event for the children.  Andy Neff suggested Mark Twain's famous story, "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County".  Duane Naftzger thought this was a fine idea.  And so a tradition was begun.

Before that first Jump cold take place, Jay Reynolds started his involvement by catching some frogs for folks to use.  His involvement continues even today.

The Valley City Frog Jump was started to serve the interests of children of all ages.  This year, in 2007 we will celebrate the 46th consecutive Jump.  And Valley City is known throughout the country, and indeed the world, for its Frog Jump.

In the year 2000 the Jump was dedicated to the memory of Duane Naftzer.  The 2001 Jump, which was also the 40th anniversary, was dedicated to Andy Neff.   Andy was able to be present at the start of the Jump to personally receive this dedication.   The 2003 Jump was dedicated in honor of Jay Reynolds.  Jay was present to receive the honor, and promptly resumed teaching his popular "Frog School". 

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This Page Last Updated 8/6/08