September 25, 2012

HUNTINGDON VALLEY, PA – Because of its long term relationship with its client, Praxis Communications was asked in late 2011 to help Kingsbury, Inc. mount a celebration of its 100th anniversary. 2012 marks a century since the first fluid film bearing was installed in a commercial hydroelectric power station on the banks of the Susquehanna River in Holtwood, PA. An invention of Dr. Albert Kingsbury, the original bearing (one of ten that replaced worn out rolling element bearings), was so successful that it is still in operation today with all its original parts. The unique bearing was engineered to carry enormous machine loads floating on a thin film of oil with virtually no wear. This advancement opened the doors for the creation of much more powerful machines, the ability to generate electricity to serve millions of people, and the design of ship propulsion systems to move larger and larger vessels.

Working with the company's officers and a team comprised of the family members and board of directors, Praxis coordinated with an historical archivist to assemble a history of the company in book and video form, organized a black-tie dinner and presentation for its employees, family and special guests at Philadelphia's Ritz Carlton Hotel, and managed an additional celebration for employees at its sister facility in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Praxis set up archival displays at each event to showcase some of the historical artifacts from the company's past. In addition to other dignitaries, the Honorable Michael Nutter, Mayor of Philadelphia, spoke at the Ritz Carlton, and Wisconsin Congressman Thomas Petri addressed the gathering at The Waters in Oshkosh. Kingsbury's Chairman of the Board, Joseph Hill, presented a champagne toast to everyone who helped continue to make the company successful.

Praxis Communications is a full-service marketing communications agency that creates creative, results-driven strategies for B2B clients. Founded in 1979, Praxis functions as a marketing partner for companies seeking a blend between powerful creative and a comprehensive strategic approach to marketing communications.