Historical society says thanks (11/04/2008)

To the editor:

The 6th annual Heritage Festival sponsored by the Jay County Historical Society was another huge success. A special thanks to co-chairs Rosie Grapner and Sandy Bubp, their committee, and all others who helped. A special thanks to Jack and Norma Imel and their family for taking part and for all their cooperation throughout the planning of the event. We can't forget the weatherman, as he again provided a beautiful fall setting.

We have no accurate way of judging attendance, but know that it had to be up from last year. Head cook Ralph Grapner reported that 700 foot long hot dogs, 260 regular hot dogs, 700 servings of ice cream and 40 batches of caramel corn, along with cookies, apple fritters and more were consumed during the two days. On Saturday, two kettles of ham and beans containing 75 pounds of beans and 37 pounds of ham were eaten, along with 14 trays of cornbread. Sunday's far included chili made with 35 pounds of hamburger, 70 cans of beans, and 35 cans of tomato juice.

A grant for programming was provided by Regional Arts Partners, including Arts Place, Indiana Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Grants from The Portland Foundation purchased two large canopies, installed a water line for food preparation and helped with the publication of a book. We thank these groups, along with all of our other sponsors and donors.

A book, "Just Tell Them I'm from Portland, Indiana - The Jack Imel Story," written by Jay County historian Jane Ann Spencer, is available at the museum for $10. The cost of this book, which incorporates a graduate thesis by Jay County band director Kelly Smeltzer and many pictures of Jack and his family, was underwritten by a grant from The Portland Foundation.

Membership in the Jay County Historical Society is now about 620.

Annual membership dues of $15 for individuals and $25 for families include a subscription to our monthly newsletter and help with the expenses of preserving our heritage for future generations. Lifetime memberships are also available. Anyone wishing to join may send dues to 903 E. Main St., Portland, IN, 47371.

Thanks to the community for all of its interest in the history and support of the museum and festival. Watch for announcements about Christmas activities beginning in late November.

Sincerely,

Kay Locker, president,

Jay County

Historical Society

Thanks

To the editor:

I want to thank the Jay County Public Library for the program concerning the ones that are home-bound and cannot get to the library.

I really appreciate Shirley Dollar for bringing me books. I tell her what kind of books I like and she brings me that kind if possible.

I want to thank her because I know it is a job looking through all those books. She is doing a good job.

And I want to thank Penny Imel for letting people know about this program.

I think it is a great library program.

Vivian Landers

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