A moment to reflect on the events at Ross Township was held to open the Aug. 15 meeting of the Chestnuthill 250th anniversary committee meeting.

The main celebration event is to be held at the West End Fairgounds on Sept. 7.The original Chestnut Hill Township encompassed all that area of the four townships of Pleasant Valley School District.The history books have been received and the sponsor sheets glued in place. Food vendors offer a wide variety of options with several churches operating stands.The books are for sale in the municipal buildings with the exception of Ross which is meeting temporarily in Chestnuthill. They are available at ShopRite, Altemose's, Dunkleberger's, the Western Pocono Library and at the West End Fair.Our Lady Queen of Peace and West End Fire Company fire police will help with the parking. The West End Ambulance will provide coverage.The three divisions of the parade include walkers including bands, equestrian, and floats.Two people volunteered to carry the banner at the front of the parade.Attempts are being made to try and minimize impacting normal traffic flow in the area, though some roads will be closed.At noon after the parade, which begins at 10 a.m., there will be presentations of proclamations from the Monroe County Commissioners and the state Senate.The Riverside Rhythm Swing Band will play on the Main Stage and alternate with The Hawks in the bandstand.Games such as sack races, egg on a spoon and watermelon eating will be added to by a Boy Scout Troop.There will be nonprofit and commercial displays. There is no charge for the nonprofits because one reason for the celebration is to have people learn what is available in the community, said Norman Burger, committee chair.The fair museum will be open during the anniversary event. Available will be anniversary shirts, caps, coffee cups, jar openers, Frisbees, bag clamps and more.People questioned whether there would be fireworks but it was decided they would be too expensive and the focus is to be on history.A Memorial Chestnut Tree or two will be planted at the fairgrounds and the committee is looking for other sites such as the parks and open space.Burger will be taking his daughter to Penn State and will try and talk to members of the American Chestnut Foundation which is located in Harrisburg. It asks for some nuts to be returned for evaluation.The county archivist will offer information about what is available. Included are patent books for early land ownership, which became land warrants and finally deeds.Sponsors will be listed on the Web site and on a banner that is being printed.A double-sided, wind-resistant banner will be hung over Route 209 in Brodheadsville to announce the celebrationRain date announcements for Sept. 8 will be given on radio and television. In case of a major storm predicted, there will be 24-hours notice.Another committee meeting will be held on Aug. 22.