BIG BIRTHDAYS – THE kind that end with a plump zero – deserve special attention.

So hats off to the Wyoming Valley ’s party planners who are busy this summer preparing to stage blockbuster events celebrating a trio of significant milestones.

Kingston Borough turns 150 years old.

West Pittston Borough also hits its sesquicentennial.

And the Forty Fort Meeting House, considered the region’s oldest church building, reaches a whopping 200 years. (It’ll take a mighty large cake to accommodate all those candles!)

Plenty of area residents – most of them volunteers working anonymously – will play roles in pulling off these separate commemorations. There will be hours of preparation, oodles of e-mail coordination and, no doubt, moments of frustration. But their efforts will not go unnoticed or unappreciated.

Thanks to them, local history will be highlighted and perhaps better understood. People will be more likely to reflect on the work and sacrifices of their predecessors. More important, area residents might begin to pose questions such as “What’s going to happen here next?” and “How can we improve the precious places and things that we’ve inherited?”

(Incidentally, The Times Leader’s managers will ponder some of those weighty questions as the newspaper observes its 100th anniversary in 2007.)

But before any festive balloon drops or fireworks blasts, there’s lots of work to be done. Consider rolling up your sleeves and pitching in to display your community pride.

Kingston ’s 150th year.

The Sesquicentennial Celebration Committee has announced these activities: a concert by the Kingston Trio (Sept. 8) and a parade, summer festival and fireworks show (Sept. 9). A “Grand Celebration,” consisting of a formal dinner and a historical presentation, is set for Nov. 24.

The committee also is encouraging borough residents to schedule neighborhood cookouts or block parties throughout the summer, according to a newsletter mailed recently. (Block parties require pre-approval from the municipal administrator.)

Groups and individuals interested in offering support, historical photos or celebration ideas are urged to call Sandra Kase at 287-1976 . Information also is available by calling 288-4576 ext. 112 or visiting this Web site: www.kingstonpa.org.

West Pittston ’s 150th year.

Events are being planned both by the borough administration and the historical society. Among the activities scheduled so far: Christmas in July (July 25) and a golf tournament (Aug. 25).

To support this sesquicentennial, call the historical society at 603-0615 or the borough secretary at 655-7782 , ext. 221.

Forty Fort Meeting House’s 200th year.

The bicentennial committee has slated a full week of activities, including a kick-off event and vesper service (Sept. 30) and a gala dinner (Oct. 6). Also, costumed guides will provide tours of the meeting house.

To lend help, call the Forty Fort Cemetery office at 287-5214 . Information is available at www.fortyfortmeetinghouse.org.

The Times Leader’s 100th year.

Watch for announcements in the newspaper’s print and online editions. Go to www.timesleader.com.

©The Times Leader 2007

George Peck
Memorial
founder of
Wyoming Seminary

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