Two special anniversary celebrations were held this week — one for a long-standing business in Franklin and the other for a community organization of outstanding repute.

Congratulations to Southampton Memorial Hospital for celebrating 50 years at its location. The facility has grown and prospered and has stood the test of time, still offering great care to the citizens in our community.

From its roots as a rural hospital, SMH has grown and expanded. It has not rested on its laurels, as community leaders and visionaries on the board of directors have seen that the facility has continually expanded and improved.

From East Pavilion to the Village at Woods Edge, the hospital family offers a wide-array of services for local citizens. And it is constantly evolving, as plans for an orthopedic and sports medicine facility are already underway.

Thank you to the visionaries that began the journey 50 years ago and thank you to those who continue the vision. The community is grateful.

Boy Scout Troop 17 is celebrating 100 years of continual existence. That is a remarkable milestone. From 1913 to 2013, Troop 17 has been led by remarkably civic-minded individuals who have had an amazing influence on many generations of young men. The Troop has also influenced countless young men, who have gone on to take those scouting values and give back in many ways. And through it all, High Street United Methodist Church has been the sponsor of this Troop, a special contribution indeed. Congratulations to Troop 17. Again, the community is grateful.