Schertz will celebrate in 2008 the 50th anniversary of its incorporation, and from the looks of things, it will be a yearlong party.

The Schertz 50th Anniversary Committee has prepared a schedule of events for each month. The activities are meant to encourage participation from all parts of the community.

On Jan. 15, City Council will host a special presentation of plaques honoring all of Schertz’s mayors, mayor pro-temporares and council members. On Feb. 8, generations of residents will meet at a dance involving local senior citizens and the Schertz Youth Council.

An activity on March 28 will recognize endurance by honoring the city’s oldest resident, the resident who has spent the most years living in Schertz, as well as the oldest church, business and civic organization.

April 25 will mark Arbor Day with a planting of trees around town. Events have yet to be confirmed for May and June.

In July, local residents and businesses will be encouraged to take part in a citywide decoration contest. During the final weekend of July, a softball tournament will involve city employees from Schertz and neighboring municipalities.

The number 50 will be the key on Aug. 30 when a party will be held at the city pool. Admission will be 50 cents while refreshments will cost the same.

Sept. 26-28 will be the main dates of the entire anniversary observance. The inaugural Schertz Fest will take place at Pickrell Park, ending on the actual anniversary day of the city’s incorporation.

“I know this is a lot to say, but we believe Schertz Fest will become a lot bigger than the July 4 Jubilee,” committee member Vallery Mallard said at a recent council meeting, referring to Schertz’s long-standing, multi-day summer event. “It should attract a good crowd mainly because it should be cooler by late September.”

A pumpkin patch will dominate Pickrell Park in late October. A German wine tasting, recognizing the city’s heritage, will be held in November.