Porter seeks Founder's Day volunteers

by Tiffany Hyman

Happy (almost) birthday, Town of Porter. The town will celebrate its 200th anniversary next year and is currently seeking community help.

"Next year the Town of Porter will be 200 years old," said supervisor's assistant Norm Ault. "We are looking to set up a committee to help the Town Board plan for a Founder's Day 200th Anniversary celebration to take place in 2012. We need ideas and enthusiasm."

"It gives the people a chance to participate in honoring the town's 200th anniversary," said Sue Dietz, town historian.

"It's a great chance to get involved and celebrate its history," added Toby Jewett, president of the Historical Society.

Porter was founded on June 1, 1812, the same year as the War of 1812. The celebration of the town's founding and the anniversary of the start of the War of 1812 will be held in conjunction with one another.

Fun games, activities, food and drinks are just a few of many ideas for the gala. The town's celebration is anticipated to be larger than the Labor Day parade, which takes place every September. The committee will soon be formed to discuss ways to make Porter's bicentennial a big, enjoyable and entertaining party. The celebration is more than likely to take place at Porter on the Lake.

"Think outside the box," said an enthused Ault. "Everything is negotiable and up in the air."

Ault invites those interested in volunteering to email the town at [email protected] or call 745-7243, ext. 14.

"Studying the past is important to know where you come from," said Dietz.

"It's a good year for this part of the country," added Ault. "Support your community and help us celebrate Porter together."

"It is important to become more familiar with the village and be more connected with it and its ownership," said Jewett.