- Font Size:
- Default font size
- Larger font size
BY KRYSTIN E. KASAK
Krystin.Kasak@nwitimes.com
219.548.4353 | Monday, March 31, 2008 | (No comments posted.)
VALPARAISO | It's not just historians and donors who are taking an interest in upgrades at the Porter County Museum -- local businesses also are lending a hand.
Over the past couple weeks, the museum's new director has been offered a variety of free services from local companies. Some have donated items -- such as embroidered T-shirts for the museum staff -- while others are offering services.
Signs by Designs in Valparaiso is contributing a new sign for the museum's yard, while Blaine's Business Services in Highland will be taking care of the facility's marketing.
Museum director Kevin Pazour has been working with the marketing firm's owner, Blaine Hilton, to come up with ways to improve the museum and its image.
"Improving the aesthetic quality of the museum exhibits is a top priority," Pazour said. "Mr. Hilton is even working on bringing interactive elements and the use of technology to the Porter County Museum -- a first in our 86-year history."
Hilton said he envisions an interactive kiosk geared toward children that would allow them to incorporate audio and video clips into one of the museum's exhibits. He is also helping put together a variety of educational supplements, such as teacher guides, handouts and even an educational "treasure hunt" throughout the museum.
Hilton said he has also been talking with his past clients and colleagues to try to secure additional help for the museum. Already, he has found an elevator company in the area to evaluate the repairs needed to upgrade the museum's stair climber.
Although Hilton has lived in Portage his whole life, he said he didn't even realize the county had a museum until recently.
"It's a hidden treasure that more people should know about," Hilton said. "We're trying to take that history and make it come to life."
Tony Micciche, owner of EmbroiderMe in Valparaiso, said he has fond memories of visiting the museum as a child.
"The museum is a great part of Valparaiso history and we wanted to do our part to help preserve that history," Micciche said of his donation.
Pazour said he is thankful for the support he has received in such a short period of time.
"I look forward to strengthening the museum's relationship with the community by forging new bonds with those who care as much as I do," Pazour said. "Support is a crucial component to make any plan a reality. It has been a joy to work with people who have a passion for local history and believe the museum is more than a worth-while cause."
Pazour still hopes to extend the museum's hours starting this summer. He is currently planning events for the re-opening after the upgrades.
For more information
The Porter County Museum is at 153 Franklin St., Valparaiso, and can be reached at 465-3595. It is currently open from 1 to 4 p.m. Friday to Sunday.
Back to story No comments posted.
- It wasn't clear, concise or focused on the topic in the story.
- It was a personal attack, vulgar, explicit or degrading, used actual or implied profanity or contained potentially libelous statements.
- It accused someone of being guilty of a crime.
- It promoted violence or illegal acts.
- It contained telephone numbers or street addresses, or e-mail addresses and links to Web sites other than nwi.com or government agencies.
In no way do these comments represent the views of The Times or Lee Enterprises.
Passionate views, pointed criticism and critical thinking are welcome. Name-calling, crude and profane language and personal abuse are not welcome.
Reader comments will not be edited - they will be approved or declined. They may be used in the print edition of the newspaper.
If you feel a posted comment has violated these guidelines, please email our New Media team the commenter's name, the comment and a link to the article.
For more information please read our Terms of Service.
Post a comment Once your comments are approved, they will appear here.
» More Porter County Stories