Ray and Judy Porten Memorial Scholarship fundraiser in Island Lake

The Ray and Judy Porten Memorial Scholarship invites Wauconda High School alumni, staff, students and community members to attend the 2016 scholarship fundraiser Friday, April 8.

The event, which will run from 6 to 8:30 p.m., will be held at Sideouts Bar & Eatery, 4018 Roberts Road, Island Lake.

Author Candice Porten, a Wauconda High School graduate and the daughter of Ray and Judy Porten, will donate the proceeds of her book "A Mile for Every Year, Year 1" to her parents' scholarship.

Candice Porten created her "Mile for Every Year" journal series with inspiration from her parents and has dedicated her first journal in their honor and in support Wauconda High School students, and to help others find, live and celebrate a long healthy life.

The goal of the fundraiser is to continue Portens' legacy and celebrate the students and families of Wauconda and surrounding communities by raising money for The Ray and Judy Porten Memorial Scholarship and continue to award yearly scholarships to deserving graduating Wauconda High seniors.

Local businesses and families have pledged support for the scholarship and fundraiser, including Lindy's Landing, Slyce, JJ Twigs, Prate Installations, Casten Body Shop, and many more. The fundraiser includes raffle items from Lindy's Landing, JJ Twigs and other individuals and businesses.

The Ray and Judy Porten Memorial Scholarship was established in 2013 to support Wauconda High students by nurturing hard work, dedication, and grass-roots community efforts in Wauconda and its surrounding communities as Ray and Judy Porten did for more than 22 years. With support of family and friends, the scholarship will be awarded to two university, college, community college or vocational-bound high school seniors based on demonstrated academic achievement, athletic participation, community volunteer efforts and proven leadership qualities in and out of school.

Ray and Judy Porten met while attending Wauconda High School, soon after they married and had six children who all attend Wauconda schools. During the 22 years their children attended school, and beyond, the Portens dedicated countless efforts to the Boosters and projects such as having lights installed on the athletic field so games could be played at night and a new press box. Some years, their efforts surrounded fundraising to ensure students from junior varsity through varsity could enjoy athletic activities.

To donate to the Ray and Judy Porten Memorial Scholarship Fund, go to www.therayandjudyportememorialscholarship.org or mail donations to The Ray and Judy Porten Memorial Scholarship c/o Candice Porten, 544 W Cinnabar Trail, Flagstaff, AZ 86005.