Todd & Becki Franks, the 2026 Essex Labor Day Grand Marshals
Congratulations to Todd & Becki Franks, who are the 2026 Essex Labor Day Grand Marshals. The couple was selected by members of the Essex Community Club. According to the nomination form, Todd and Becki are both long-time fire and rescue volunteers, where Todd served as Fire Chief and they are integral during the annual fish/chicken fundraiser and pancake/sausage fundraiser. Additionally, the couple has coached multiple sports teams at all different levels, are longtime Essex Community Club members, Essex Booster Club members, and important church volunteers. Becki is a 4-H leader, helps run Bountiful Baskets food co-op, is a school board member, and hosts 5th Quarter for kids after home games. On top of that, Becki is always in the stands taking professional quality photos of student athletes for the local media, school, and parents. Our community is fortunate to have Todd & Becki Franks.
Todd and Becki will serve as Grand Marshals during Essex’s annual Labor Day celebration.
New events scheduled for Labor Day weekend in Essex include zero-turn lawnmower barrel racing, mounted shooting, Junk in the Trunk, Scotcheroo contest, Soak-a-Local, Best Homegrown Garden contest, Bigfoot Calling Contest, and ping pong ball drone drop. These are in addition to the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus, demolition derby, live music/street dances with Jason Mayer & ‘The Hold On’ Band, food trucks, Rustic Market, fireworks, and Free movie on the field; this year’s it’s “The Sandlot.”
Labor Day in Essex starts Friday, Sept. 4 through Monday, Sept. 7 in Essex. The complete schedule (attached) can also be found at Essex Community Club | Essex IA | Facebook or City of Essex – 2026 Essex Labor Day Schedule
