Planning for the Pine Plains bicentennial officially launched last week with Community Day organizers, representatives from local groups, and volunteers meeting to discuss how best to commemorate the town’s 200-year anniversary.
The roundtable discussion was led by Patrick Trettenero and Sarah Lyons Chase, co-chairs of the Community Day committee. As part of the discussion, Dyan Wapnick, president of the Little Nine Partner’s Historical Society and Dutchess County Historian William Tatum described the town’s March 26, 1823 incorporation as a pivotal point for Pine Plains.
The town’s bicentennial events will kickoff March 4, at The Stissing Center with the historical society’s screening of “Our Farms, Our Farmers,” a documentary profiling the local farming community. Celebrations will culminate with Community Day following the Ag Fair in early October.
In between, Trettenero said, there will be a number of films, music and theater performances and recreational activities all celebrating the town’s landmark birthday.
“Pine Plains is turning 200 this year, and we’re developing a series of fun and engaging events to celebrate our rich history and look ahead to our future,” he said. “There will be something for everyone.”
Organizers stressed the success of the bicentennial-year celebrations are dependent on the participation of community volunteers. Several subcommittees are currently in need of members and chairs. Anyone interested in helping out is encouraged to email pineplainsbicentennial@gmail.com.
Alexis Tackett chairs the Community Day subcommittee for youth activities.