Mark your calendars and set your alarm clocks. New Wilmington will be filled with activity on Saturday, March 8.

Start off your day with the annual Kiwanis Pancake and Sausage Breakfast at Galbreath Hall's dining room at Westminster College. This is the 25th year this "all-you-can-eat" event has been held. One can only guess how many pancakes have been served. A choice of regular or buckwheat cakes will be offered along with sausage and choice of beverage.

Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Cost is $5 for adults and $2 for children ages 12 and under. Proceeds will benefit New Wilmington Volunteer Emergency Services.

Area Boy Scouts and the high school Key Club will help with the breakfast and a bake sale. It is nice to see the next generation of "volunteers" dedicated to serving the community at this event.

Plan to browse some of the shops in town and then stop at the Wilmington Area High School gymnasium and cafeteria for the Wilmington Area Business Expo. Sponsored by the New Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, admission is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

With more than 50 area businesses already registered to participate, Chamber President Tim Kelly said that the public will enjoy the displays of products and services. The event will also provide local businesses with many contacts and marketing opportunities.

Patrons will have the opportunity to win one of many valuable door prizes. Since every business has donated, there will be many great items available.

Contact Kelly (724) 946-2927 for more information or visit www.newwilmington.biz for the latest Chamber news.

After the business expo, get ready for spring. "Fashion 2003" is scheduled at 4 p.m. in the middle school gymnasium. The Wilmington Area Junior Class will present a fashion show extravaganza featuring prom and tuxedo evening wear and after-prom and spring apparel.

More than 40 prom gowns, tuxes, and spring sportswear will be modeled by the high school students. Tickets are $5 and will be available at the door or in advance by calling (724) 946-8361. Proceeds will benefit the "after-prom" all-night party.

Area businesses have been very gracious to donate door prizes that will pamper you, whether you are attending the prom or just ready for a little "pick-me-up." It's not just for teens; all those in need of a little taste of spring should attend!

If you thought it was time to go home and relax, think again. The Scot Symphonic Band from The College of Wooster will present a concert at Wilmington Area High School auditorium at 7:30 that evening.

The group will feature a bagpipe and drum corps and highland dancers. Selections presented are planned for a variety of tastes.

High School band director Gary Taylor feels lucky to be able to host such a talented group. Taylor said he believes it is important for a person of any age to be exposed to fine musicianship, but especially important to the student musicians, because once they hear quality they will work to emulate it.

A free-will offering will be taken. Plan to attend -- Taylor guarantees an enjoyable evening.

Remember, March 8 is the date, New Wilmington is the place. Take in breakfast and the fashion show, or the Expo and the concert. Or even make plans to attend all four events. Hope to see you there!

Contact Karen Coulter with New Wilmington area news at (724) 946-8361 or e-mail her at: Nwnews4karen@aol.com