Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE – As with any good party, a lot of time and planning is necessary to make sure the event is a success. That’s the case for the Star City, as plans continue for the 2009 Sesquicentennial celebration. Unlike other communities in Aroostook who’ve spent this summer celebrating their sesquicentennials over a week or weekend, Presque Isle will spend the entire year hosting monthly events to mark this historic occasion. Event organizers have been busy putting a list of activities together and creating committees to work on the various projects. Now that 2008 is coming to a close, officials are kicking things into high gear for next year’s celebration.
“It is time to buckle down and really get the wheels turning for the Sesquicentennial,” said Kim Smith, treasurer of the Presque Isle Historical Society and one of the organizer for next year’s event.
Organizers have prepared a list of activities they’ll be discussing at their next meeting.
“I’ve scheduled the next meeting for Wednesday, Sept. 10, at 6 p.m. at the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce office,” said Smith.
For those interested in attending, the meeting will be held in the conference room of the Chamber, located on the Houlton Road.
Updates will be provided at the meeting on the various events being planned throughout 2009, including: an air show, arts and crafts show, barber shoppers, special movie events at the Braden Theatre, Chorale Society (Historic Music Concert), church events, a commemorative DVD, fashion show, fireworks and more.
“We’ll also have an update on the historic plaque project, discuss activities at the James School, talk about the proposed lecture series and find out the latest on the logo,” said Smith.
A pageant is still being planned, as well as a parade and quilt display. Organizers are also working with NMCC and SAD 1 on a couple of projects.
“Sporting events being planned include a softball tournament, basketball game and golf,” said Smith.
Attendees of the meeting will hear more on the calendar of events, with the first activity planned for January.
“We’re looking to put on a Victorian tea in January, to start the year-long celebration,” said Smith.
Organizers will also set upcoming meeting dates at next week’s session. Meetings are open to the public and anyone interested in participating on one or several projects is encouraged to do so.
For more information, e-mail PI150birthday@hotmail.com.