Jim Ruge and Florence Dresh have been chosen to preside over Porter’s 2009 Fourth of July Parade as King and Queen.

The two were selected in recognition of their long service to the Duneland community, according to Brenda Brueckheimer, who chairs the organizing committee for the celebration.

“Jim and Florence were easy choices,” she said. “Both are long-time residents who exemplify the spirit of community through their hard work, energy and contributions to making Porter and the entire Duneland area a great place to live. We are delighted that they have agreed to preside over this year’s parade.”

Jim Ruge, a lifetime area resident and prominent businessman, is President of Porter Bank, a hometown family bank that has been serving the community since 1920. The Ruge family became involved with the bank in 1964, and Jim has served as its President since 1971. Jim is also co-owner of the Schoolhouse Shop, a popular gift shop in Furnessville.

Jim and the bank have reliably supported numerous community activities over the years. Jim designed and arranged for the landscaping at Hageman Library when that facility was established. He has also contributed to beautification projects along Lincoln Avenue, the town’s main business thoroughfare. The bank saved and restored the cupola from the old Town Hall. That historic structure is now the centerpiece of a small public park located adjacent to and funded by the bank. Jim is also a strong supporter of the local arts scene. His Schoolhouse Shop sponsors an annual Celebration of the Arts each September, offering a venue for artists and craftsmen to display and market their works.

Florence Dresh moved to Porter in 1946 with her late husband, an optician from Gary, and she has lived in the town ever since. The proud mother of three daughters and one son, she also boasts of six grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. Since being widowed 30 years ago, Florence has devoted herself to activities supporting children and seniors.

She taught dancing many years ago and served as a “grandmother” in after-school programs for children in the town. Florence is a strong advocate for active lifestyles for senior citizens. She began teaching exercise classes for seniors at the Duneland Family YMCA in 1992, and she continues to promote exercise fellowship by teaching three classes even now. At age 91, she is an inspiration to her fellow seniors and the community as a whole.

Porter’s Fourth of July Parade steps off at 12 noon on Saturday, July 4, from Yost Elementary School. The parade route follows Wagner Road and Lincoln Avenue, before ending at Hawthorne Park. A Festival is planned at the park on both Saturday and Sunday, featuring music, games, food, and activities for all.

Come join this celebration of Independence Day.

Posted 7/3/2009