Veterans for Peace and Peace Action will hold the annual bell ringing on Tuesday, Aug. 6, at First Congregational Church at Front and Main streets in Binghamton.
People are encouraged to come at 8 a.m. and the bell will be rung at 8:15 a.m. The bell ringing, an event that has been going on for more than 25 years at First Congregational, recognizes the historical significance of two first-generation nuclear weapons leveling Hiroshima and Nagasaki and killing several hundred thousand people (mostly civilians). Some brief remarks will be made and then people can go to the parlor of the church and have some coffee, fresh fruit and confections.
From 10 a.m. to noon, a Children’s Peace Fair will be held in the church parking lot. In the event of rain, it will be held inside in the church fellowship room. Many activities are planned, including rock painting, a Rubik’s cube demonstration, beginning yoga, a visit by the Sweet Frog mascot who will give out free coupons to Sweet Frog, free children’s books and chalk drawing of children’s vision of a peaceful world. Free watermelon and ice cream cups along with bottles of water will be available.
It is encouraged that children be escorted by an adult. There will also be a short children’s choir presentation and children will have an opportunity to ring the big bell shortly after 10 a.m.
