Two significant events

Two significant, and seemingly unrelated, events unfolded in Union County during the closing days of 2012. Both events actually happened on Saturday, December 22.

That afternoon in Jonesboro, the PAST organization hosted an open house at its new "home." PAST has acquired the former Harvel residence just south of the Jonesboro Square.

PAST plans to utilize the site as a location which will focus on the importance of the historic Lincoln-Douglas debate in the rich history of Union County. Local history and genealogy also will be highlighted at the new facility.

During the evening of December 22, a re-lighting ceremony was held at the Cross of Peace atop Bald Knob Mountain near Alto Pass. The ceremony celebrated the latest successful step on the renovation of the Cross of Peace.

Many people attended the PAST open house and the Cross of Peace re-lighting ceremony. The large turnouts reflected support for PAST's ongoing efforts to protect and promote Union County history and the value of the Cross of Peace in the eyes, and hearts, of the community and region.

Yes, the two events of December 22 initially seem to be unrelated. However, a closer look shows that PAST's new home and the Cross of Peace each will help to bring people to Union County.

Perhaps they will come to explore their roots, or perhaps to deepen their faith, or, perhaps, to do both. Either way, each person who visits PAST's home or the Cross of Peace will be helping to support Union County.

Congratulations to PAST and to all of those involved with the Cross of Peace restoration project for jobs well done – and for helping our community to grow and prosper.