History of Palestine and Israel

The first of three educational events about Palestine and Israel will be held Jan. 31 from 2-3:30 p.m. in the meeting room of the Poulsbo branch of Kitsap Regional Library.

Titled “Palestine – A History of Conquest: Who lived in Palestine and how they got there, “ the Jan. 31 event will include a brief history of the region as well as the roots of Zionism and alternative Jewish thought. Discussions will include the Balfour Declaration of 1917, and how the antisemitism of the British and U.S. governments helped destroy Palestine, per a news relese.

The program, sponsored by the Kitsap Palestine Solidarity Coalition, will include film clips with context provided by local members of Palestinian and Jewish communities and an opportunity for questions and discussion.

The series will continue March 7 with “A European-Dominated State in the Middle East: From the founding of the state of Israel to October 2023 ” and April 4 with “Two-Plus Years of Destruction and Genocide: What happens now and in the future.” All will be at the Poulsbo library meeting room.

For more information: contact Janice Gutman at janicegutman@gmail.com

Kingston 4th of July support

The Kingston 4th of July Committee is seeking community support for its annual Independence Day festivities, including financial contributions, in-kind donations and volunteering.

As our community looks forward to this coming 4th of July celebration, many residents may not realize that the event that Kingston is known for and cherishes is facing serious funding shortages. The parade, music, Tiny Town and the fireworks we’ve come to expect don’t happen automatically-they rely on sponsorships, donations and volunteer support,” a statement from the committee says. “With enough support, we can ensure that this beloved tradition continues for years to come. Let’s rally now and make the 2026 Kingston 4th of July a celebration that is remembered for years to come.”

To donate and for volunteer information, visit kingston4thofjuly.com