Centennial plans off to a good start

By Jamie Rieger
Len Mitzel and Shawn Harty, co-chairs of the Etzikom Centennial committee attended the Feb. 11 County of Forty Mile council meeting to discuss the upcoming event and ask for non-financial support from the county.
“We are off to a really good start,” said Harty. “But, we will need to mow grass around the hamlet and clean up old yards.”
Mitzel added that there are several old yards, some in which the property owner no longer lives in the area, that will need some clean-up prior the Centennial festivities, taking place June 26-28.
“We are not asking for cash, but for maybe a hand with some of the work beforehand,” said Mitzel, commending the county for the work they have been doing at the local cemetery.
Mitzel also indicated that a couple areas would need to be mowed for overnight trailer parking.
County administrator, Dale Brown told the delegation that the county Ag. department has already been advised about the event.
Mitzel and Harty also asked if the County would be willing to assist with promotional items, such as the printing of brochures, posters, and programs and the county agreed to help out.
Some of the events being planned for the Centennial are a beard growing contest, Show n Shine, antique tractor show, beer gardens, a Saturday afternoon jam session, dance, and plenty of family activities.
Mitzel said they had between 1,500-1,600 people attend their 75th anniversary celebration and organizers are anticipating at least that many for the Centennial.