On behalf of the Board and staff of the Portage Park District, we wish everyone a happy and healthy new year, filled with new memories of special times with family and friends – perhaps at your local park or trail! We regularly hear stories of how people’s lives are changed by parks.  Such as those who lost weight and got on the road to health through hiking and biking, or the couples who courted and eventually married at Towner’s Woods.  Eagle Scouts who have completed their rank with projects in the parks, and youngsters who caught their first fish or rode without training wheels for the first time. It’s a group effort to provide these public places, and we thank all of the many individuals, organizations and businesses over the year who have supported our 4 person staff in the mission to conserve Portage County’s natural and cultural heritage.  We’re fortunate to have volunteers of all ages help with everything from trail maintenance to office work, and donors who give from one dollar to thousands of dollars.  Of course, we wouldn’t be here without the partnership of other local agencies, especially the Portage County Commissioners, Prosecutor, Auditor, Treasurer, Sheriff and Probate Judge Tom Carnes, who appoints our volunteer Board. But like many, the Portage Park District is facing lean times with severe cuts to our day to day operating budget that threaten our ability to keep the doors open and manage the parks we have, not to mention pursue additional opportunities. You can help to get us through this tough time.  Please consider making a donation to the Park District and volunteering your time and talents.  Perhaps you'd like to help with a fundraiser.  Maybe you were one of over 30,000 people who had voted 'yes' for our unsuccessful levy in 2008, but would be willing to donate your 'voluntary tax' anyway (the half-mill levy would’ve only cost $16/year for a $100,000 home).  Please give us a call to learn more.  Together we can make a difference for present and future generations by protecting the beautiful creation around us and providing parks and trails for all to enjoy. With warm regards, and wishes for lots of fun in our winter wonderland, Christine Craycroft, Executive Director, Portage Park District

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