Port mayor hands over the keys to the city

Their missions are different, but each of the four organizations and individuals recognized with keys to the city by Port Washington Mayor Ted Neitzke has one thing in common — they are all working to make the city a good place to live, work and play.

Keys were given to Shirli Flack, the Port Washington Lions Club, Family Promise and the Port Washington Tourism Council.

Flack was recognized for her philanthropy, Neitzke said, noting that she has “answered the call of every organization in the city” through the years.

“Mrs. Flack said yes often,” he said. “She has had a significant impact, making sure the City of Port Washington is taken care of.”

Flack’s son-in-law Jeff Morgan thanked the mayor, saying that her efforts have been largely centered around young children, citing her support of Little League teams, the Jack and Shirli Flack (soccer) Field and for having the largest scholarship fund administered by the Community Education Foundation of Port Washington-Saukville.

“It comes from the heart and is ongoing,” Morgan said of Flack’s efforts.

The Lions Club was recognized for its service to the community, Neitzke said, noting the club’s work ranges from eyeglass collections and the annual Lions Fest to support of the Food Pantry Inc. and work to revamp Fish Day.

“There’s no area, no neighborhood you can go and not see the impact of the Lions Club,” he said.

Family Promise was honored as the nonprofit organization of the year, Neitzke said, noting the group works to aid people who are in transition and having difficulty finding a home or work or meeting basic needs.

“The words I keep repeating are ‘with dignity,’” he said. “These people work tirelessly.”

Executive Director Mike Cosgrove thanked the city for welcoming the organization when it opened its shelter.

“It’s really cool we get a key because what we do is open doors,” he said.

The Port Tourism Council was honored for community leadership, Neitzke said.

“This organization really works hard to promote our city,” he said. “They allow our community to thrive. We no longer are a stone to leapfrog on the way to Door County.”