Communities Plan Founders’ Day, Pioneer Festivals

Several communities and organizations are marking their histories with Founders Day and anniversary events. The University of Texas at Arlington’s annual festival will bring students together for campus traditions and entertainment, with Acting President Archie Holmes among the speakers. In North Alabama, a veterans and fraternal organizations luncheon featured retired Maj. Gen. Bill Gayler urging attendees to build relationships, show grace and act decisively. Stratford’s Royal Canadian Legion Branch 8 is celebrating its centennial with an open house, a wreath-laying, community events and tributes to veterans, with proceeds supporting veteran programs. Hickory Grove Methodist Church will celebrate its 198 years of service with its 35th annual Founders Day, featuring family activities, food and a focus on the 19th-century circuit riders.