Two years may seem like a long time from now, but not when you’re planning a community celebration.

And in case you forgot, Rugby-Pierce County will reach a fairly significant milestone in 2011, the 125th anniversary of its formation.

Here’s what is known.

-An all-school reunion is scheduled for July 1-3, 2011 and likely will attract several hundred people to the community.

-The Pierce County Fair Association will hold the county fair around those dates.

Certainly that’s a good starting point, but other activities are necessary to make a 125th celebration memorable.

A quasquicentennial committee is just now forming and one of its first priorities is to spread the word to local organizations, businesses and residents about the upcoming celebration and get ideas for what should be offered to complement the reunion and county fair. And perhaps more importantly encourage participation.

It’s a community event so therefore local organizations as well as businesses and residents should take ownership in it.

It’s should not be the obligation of a committee, a handful of residents or a few organizations or businesses to pull it all together.

If each organization agrees to pitch in by sponsoring or coordinating one activity, it would not only ensure there would be many attractions to take in, but it would also lighten the load for everyone.

Yes, every major celebration must have its core team of planners, it must also have its workers. And the goal is for everyone to be able to enjoy the event. And that can be accomplished with widespread participation.

So why is it necessary to hold a 125th celebration?

It invokes community pride. It gives a reason for families and former alums and residents to come back, and yes, it generates an economic boost to the town.

All good reasons to hold one.

So remember to save the date, but also be a good citizen and pitch in where you can so everyone can enjoy this milestone.