Community Picnic in the basket

Many longtime residents of the Platte Valley have fond memories of the community picnics that had been organized by Kendall McBride for several years. John Zeiger, one of those residents, is hoping to bring the community picnic back, beginning this year.

According to Zeiger, he and a handful of other people began talking on Facebook after friends and former classmates passed away about how unfortunate it was they had lost contact with each other. As the discussion evolved, the group decided that it would be a good idea to try and bring back community picnics.

“We all just said ‘We really ought to do something in Saratoga, the sooner the better,’” said Zeiger.

With Zeiger being the one member of the group still in the Valley, he took on the task of approaching the Saratoga Town Council for permission to hold the community picnic at Veterans Island on Tuesday, July 3. Zeiger’s hope is that, by holding the picnic during Togie Days, it will allow more people to attend.

The town council gave Zeiger approval and, according to Zeiger, were glad to see something like the community picnic being done. Zeiger also requested an open container license so that people attending the picnic could bring their own alcohol instead of having someone at the picnic selling it. While he has nothing against alcohol, Zeiger said he would like the focus to be more on family and community.

Food will be provided by the Saratoga Middle High School (SMHS) World Cultural Tour Club. According to Zeiger, he felt it was a good opportunity for one of the culinary clubs to cook for the event.

As far as entertainment, Zeiger is planning an open mic night where residents can take the stage and play for their community for 15-30 minutes at a time. He also requested that the Saratoga Municipal Pool remain open from 4 to 9 p.m. for open swimming for the festivities.

“I think we’ve just kind of got away from the family atmosphere,” said Zeiger.

Anyone interested in taking part in the open mic night can contact Zeiger at 307-321-1514.

The Saratoga Community Picnic is planned to take place from 4 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, July 3 at Veterans Island.