Officials with ARISE (the Atlantic Rock Island Society Enterprise) in Atlantic, report Ray “Bubba” Sorensen, from Greenfield, will present a program on his Freedom Rock paintings at the American Legion Memorial Building, this Sunday, November 17th, beginning at 2-p.m.

(R) Rep. Ray “Bubba” Sorensen

Sorensen, serves as Republican House Representative for District 20 in Iowa (which includes Adair, Guthrie and parts of Cass and Dallas Counties), began designing and painting a 12-foot tall boulder north of Greenfield, when he was 19 years old. He continues to repaint that rock every year since 1999 to be finished before Memorial Day. Sorensen has completed a commissioned rock in nearly every Iowa County and some in other states, since the first rock was painted.

2019 Freedom Rock (Courtesy Sorensen Studios)

Sorensen says his goal has always been to spread a message of thanks to veterans. Every county’s rock is unique representing specific stories. Each one is part of the overall story of Iowa and their veterans’ service. Recently “Bubba” has applied his artistic skills in another way, by illustrating a book of poems honoring veterans.

The Atlantic History Center, Military Museum, and Military Library will be open for viewing during the event. Books may be checked out of the Library. Refreshments will be available. The American Legion Memorial Building, AKA the Armory, is handicapped accessible. There is no fee for attending but donations are appreciated. For more information see ariseAtlantic.org website or Facebook.