Boat parade to feature ‘pajama party’ theme
ASHLAND NEWS
by Susan Feeney Hopkins
The town of Portage Lake will be holding its annual boat parade on the morning of Saturday, July 14. In jest of the parade time change from an evening to a morning parade, a “pajama party” theme is planned. All boaters are encouraged to wear their pajamas and robes. All spectators can feel comfortable joining in the fun by just rolling out of bed and stepping out with their morning coffee. It’s going to be a great time of day to be out on the lake!
Sponsored by the Portage Lake Association, the parade is a town favorite though dwindling numbers of participants in the night parade inspired the change. The PLA is hoping the time change will encourage more townspeople to participate and cheer on the boaters. This is another great opportunity to unite with your neighbors. These fun town activities and traditions we all enjoy require our support and participation.
Boaters partaking in the parade will meet at the boat launch at 8 a.m. There will be donuts and coffee for those participating.
Please note: The Portage Lake fireworks display will be held in August this year to coincide with the Portage Round Up Celebration. Because the fireworks display is costly and is paid for by donors, two shows in one year was not possible.
Special town meeting in Portage Lake
The town of Portage Lake will be holding a special town meeting Thursday, July 19 beginning at 6:30 p.m. There are several articles to be discussed along with a vote that night. Residents attending the meeting will vote on whether or not to allow the Portage Lake Housing Corp. a right of way from School Street to the planned housing development known as Mountain Valley Manor. Residents are encouraged to attend this meeting.
Ongoing events
The Portage Lake ATV Club will meet every first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Town Office. All are welcome to attend. Contact Rena Belanger for membership or more information at 435-2780.
The Ashland Area Senior Citizens meet the first and third Thursday at noon for a potluck luncheon at the LeBlanc Junkins VFW Post 9699 on the Portage Road with a meeting to follow. This active and growing club of senior citizens also takes trips to various restaurants throughout The County, hosts cookouts, enjoys guest speakers and entertainment such as musicians. For more information, contact Roberta Savary at 435-6422.
The Portage Lake Over 50’s Club lunch is held on the last Tuesday of every month at 11:30 a.m. at the Town Hall. All individuals 50 and over are invited to attend and can bring a potluck dish to share. For more information, contact Wilza Robertson at 435-6211 or Grace Nason at 435-6373.
The Red Hat Loonies of Portage Lake meet the second Thursday of every month at Dean’s Motor Lodge. Membership dues are $2. Come and have a great meal and a great time, too! For more information, contact Rachel Stevens at 435-6358.
Susan Feeney-Hopkins is the correspondent for Ashland, Portage Lake, Oxbow, Masardis, Garfield, Nashville Plantation and the surrounding areas. She can be reached at 435-8232 or Feenhop@aol.com.
