City to celebrate 150th with Birthday Bash

    “The big Sesquicentennial Birthday Bash takes place on Saturday, April 4. The event, which is free to the public, is being hosted by NMCC and put on by the Sesquicentennial Committee,” said Kim Smith, chair of the Sesquicentennial Committee.
Smith said a number of activities are scheduled, with something for everyone, regardless of age.
“The event will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature the following free happenings, all of which are open to the public. Events include: a history trivia quiz; children’s games; rides; and antique exhibits. Live music will also be offered, including: the Gallagher Brothers; the Barbershoppers, the Main Event Singers; and the Presque Isle Middle School Jazz Band.
“The main cake will be in a special star-shape mold made by the metal fabrication students. There will be photo ops with the cake too,” she said.
During the event and throughout the year, Smith said items will be offered for sale to mark the city’s anniversary.
“Food and Sesquicentennial souvenirs will be available for purchase at the event. Souvenirs can also be purchased throughout 2009,” said Smith.
Smith and Elizabeth Wright are two of the individuals who will be donning vintage attire, modeling the costumes during the festivities.
“My costume is a replica from circa 1910 and Elizabeth will be wearing a riding dress, circa 1904, that women would wear while riding around in an automobile. It’s made of heavier material to keep the road dust off the skin,” said Smith.
Jason Parent, NMCC director of development and college relations and a member of the Event Planning Committee, has been busy in recent weeks, putting the finishing touches on a party of historic proportions.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming all to a birthday party 150 years in the making,” said Parent.
While the majority of activities will be taking place at NMCC on Saturday, another very special event is scheduled at the local post office.
“Also happening on April 4, anyone who takes their outgoing mail to the post office on that day from 8:30 a.m. to noon can have their mail ‘hand-canceled’ with a special Sesquicentennial stamp commemorating Presque Isle’s 150th anniversary as having been incorporated as a town. There is no charge for this service,” said Smith.
Theresa Fowler, executive director of the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce, encourages residents and visitors alike to check out the many wonderful things the Star City has to offer — on this special day, as well as throughout the year.
“From the Forum’s Arts, Crafts and Collectibles Fair over the weekend, to the many shopping options in town, we invite everyone to come see what the city has to offer,” said Fowler.
Fowler is already busily preparing for the weeks ahead.
“We have the City-Wide Yard Sale coming up Saturday, May 30; we also have our annual Strawberry Shortcake Sale later this year, the Northern Maine Fair, Crown of Maine Balloon Fest and Light Parade,” said Fowler. “There are so many wonderful things to look forward to and enjoy.”
City Manager Tom Stevens said although he will be out of town this week, due to a previously-planned engagement, he’s expecting to be back sometime this weekend.
“Unfortunately I won’t be able to attend the celebration. But I look forward to taking part in many other activities as the year progresses,” said Stevens.
Stevens said this will be a memorable occasion, geared toward wholesome family fun.
“This is a great opportunity to get out with your family and friends, create memories, have a good time, while learning a bit about the community — how the city came about and what makes us special,” said Stevens.
For more information on what is taking place this year, to share stories or make a comment, visit the Presque Isle Historical Society Web site at www.pihistory.org.