This year marks the much anticipated 350th anniversary of Milton, Massachusetts. In 2011, Money Magazine awarded Milton with the distinction of being the 2nd best town to live in all of the United States! Moreover, in the past ten years, Milton has been on the Top Ten of Money Magazines same list an astounding three times!
Milton was settled in 1640 and incorporated in 1662. Miltons population of roughly 27,000 has a great deal to be proud of. From the recently released plans and exciting news regarding the Milton Animal Shelter as we discussed in a recent blog post to now this anniversary, it is undoubtedly a time for Milton to celebrate as a community and for the rest of us to admire them as well. The Copeland Family Foundation, as it did with the Milton Animal League, has once again generously donated now $150,000 to the town in lieu of this momentous occasion.
Surprisingly, in this storied and rich history that Milton has, there has never been a mayor of the town. That is all about to change in 2012, but in a rather fun manner. The challenge is set for any individual, 18 years of age and older who resides in Milton, to raise as much money as possible that will aid in the funding for the 350th year festivities. How will the voting work you ask? Well, this will simply be counted from the amount of dollars raised by the Mayor-hopeful; essentially $1 = 1 vote.
All candidates must register by Tuesday, the 7th of February and the fundraising campaign will run until Tuesday, the 3rd of April. Methods for raising money can be of any appropriate sort. From running newspaper ads, to hosting parties and raffles to even campaigning door to door, these are all encouraged. The most critical part of this whole experience is to understand what this literally is all about, and that is giving back to the town of Milton that we know and love.
The much awaited announcement of the winner will occur sometime in early April after all of the votes have been tallied. The Mayor for the day will be honored by riding in the parade on the 9th of June and the funding raised will go towards a legacy gift to the town, a field day, the parade proceedings along with concert activities on this same day, in addition to a fireworks display the night before on the 8th of June.
Donations to the cause are also greatly appreciated. They can be made out to Town of Milton with Milton 350th in the memo of any check. So far, Curry College, Milton Academy and various other individuals and parties have raised over $10,000! The 350th Anniversary Committee has set a target goal of $100,000 by the time June comes and the celebrations truly begin. There are now 16 members who round out the anniversary planning committee whom are also making available to the public numerous T-shirts, mugs designed by Jackrabbit Design, and a sun-catcher with antique glass featuring Miltons original town seal. All of these proceeds will go towards the 350th anniversary. Marquis moments as such do not come around too often, thus why this celebration in Milton is sure to be something that all locals and outsiders should mark down on their calender!
If you or someone you know would be keen on registering to be Mayor of Milton for such a special event, or if you happen to have any lingering questions, please contact:
Brian Kelley By Email: brianpfs@gmail.com By Phone: 617.615.9249
Furthermore, for additional information on this 350 year anniversary, please visit www.milton350thanniversary.org, contact them at milton350th@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page - Milton 350th Anniversary
