For the Reporter

From roots in hops and lettuce farming to aerospace and high-tech manufacturing, Kent has come a long way since it was first incorporated on May 28, 1890 with a population of 793.

Now, a hub of innovation with more than 124,000 residents, Kent is a globally connected community with much progress and history to celebrate.

“This important milestone is as wonderful and unique as our great city, and will be celebrated all year starting with the International Festival, our Summer Concert Series, the Fourth of July Splash and more,” said Mayor Suzette Cooke.

“Let’s use this anniversary year as a time to celebrate our history and to look forward to the future.”

The public is invited to a community forum at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 26 at Kent City Hall, 220 Fourth Ave. S., to generate and share ideas on how the anniversary can be incorporated into already planned activities.

“An internal group of city employees has generated some preliminary ideas, but those activities can change with additional feedback,” Cooke said. “We’re aware of many organizations that want to celebrate in their own way, and we encourage that. To make the celebrations more cohesive, we’ve designed a special 125th anniversary logo to brand and tie everything together.

“We hope individuals and organizations will incorporate the logo into their communications and any special events for the duration of 2015. This is an opportunity to present a cohesive and positive message to our community, visitors, and businesses alike, Cooke said.

Visit KentWA.gov/125 for more details and ideas on how to recognize this milestone in Kent’s history.