ALTAMONT — The village's kickoff celebration of the 125th anniversary of its founding is on Sunday, Oct. 18, from 3 to 5 p.m.  Program remarks and introductions of distinguished guests will occur at 4 p.m.  The location of the event is 115 Main Street in Altamont.

The event is a public reception in the village hall to celebrate the kickoff of the quasquicentennial of the founding of the village of Altamont. As we look back on 125 years of history and the history of the founders of the village, it is a time of reflection and remembrance as well as celebration of what enabled a sense of community to thrive, which lasts until the present time.

Often times it was the churches, which were founded by citizens of purpose and strength. And in these churches, lies their story, in the stained-glass memorial windows within. This is the core upon which our kickoff celebration is built.

An exhibition, curated from the collections in our archives, is on view in the Hallway Gallery located in Village Hall, and continues the story.

Along with the exhibition, there is a 56-page published catalogue, which contains not only the history and photos of selected Altamont Church memorial windows but essays and messages from dignitaries that will be available for a nominal fee.

In addition to Bishop Emeritus Howard Hubbard, we expect the following elected officials to attend, along with Altamont citizens:  Congressman Paul Tonko, Honorable Jack McEneny, County Executive Dan McCoy, Guilderland Supervisor Ken Runion, Bethlehem Supervisor John Clarkson, Knox Supervisor Michael Hammond, Voorheesville Mayor Robert Conway, and various other council members, Altamont's trustees, and trustees of the surrounding communities.

In addition, Pastor Bob Luidens of Altamont Reformed Church; Pastor Greg Zajak of Altamont Lutheran Church; and Sister Mary Lou Liptak, RSM - Parish Life Director of Altamont's St. Lucy's-St. Bernadette Church will be honored with a special presentation. 

Editor’s note: James Gaughan is the mayor of Altamont.