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In a contest, called “Pot a Plant for Punxsy,” open to the public in 1981, judges chose the top three entries, which earned $50, $30, and $20, respectively. The best entries were placed atop the parking meters downtown that season. (submitted photos)

In 1979 officers of the Punxsutawney Garden Club formally presented courtyards the club created at the Punxsutawney Area Hospital to Joseph Yesh, hospital president, following a luncheon-meeting at the hospital. (l. to r.) Ruth Fleckenstein, vicepresident; Louise Means, secretary; Jeanne Barletta, treasurer; Mildred Patterson, beautician; Elaine Barletta, president; and Joseph Yesh. (photo taken by The Punxsutawney Spirit)

The Evolution of the Punxsutawney Garden Club

By Gloria Kerr for Hometown magazine

T

his is the second installment of a two-part history of the Punxsutawney Garden Club.

The first installment appeared in the May 2023 issue of Hometown magazine as the Punxsutawney Garden Club, officially organized on April 4, 1933, is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year.

Garden Club Evolution, Part 2 1970s-80s: The Floral Committee initiated a new Garden Club (GC) project in 1971: placing flower arrangements monthly in downtown locations including the public library, lobby of the Pantall Hotel, new Punxsutawney Area Hospital, which opened in 1973, bus depot, and some businesses.

Eventually, members only placed their arrangements in the public library. The club first began planting flowers in the Barclay Square area in 1980 when members planted 220 geraniums around the Civic Complex sign and building.

One of the first public tasks the club adopted was the beautification of the center courtyard at the new hospital. Paul Barletta drew up the plans. Having worked on that project over several years, GC president Elaine Barletta in 1979 officially presented the completed courtyard to hospital president Joseph Yesh, along with her fellow officers, Ruth Fleckenstein, vice president; Louise Means, secretary; Jeanne Barletta, treasurer; and Elaine Barletta, president.

One of Garden Club’s most active and longest, continuous members, Dotty Jekielek, joined the club in 1976 when Roberta Dinsmore was president; Dotty’s name first appears in the 1977-78 club booklet, 47 years ago. Judy Hampton, the club’s third longest, continuous member joined in 1980, 44 years ago. Both have been, and still are, outstanding club leaders and contributors.

Established back in 1964-65, the GC Meter Urn committee was still planting annual flowers in the

urns for summer beauty 10 years later in 1975 while in the fall having small evergreen trees placed in them before the late fall and winter holidays. In 1975 for the bicentennial celebration, patriotic red, white, and blue petunias adorned the urns. In October 1980, many meter urns were stolen from three different streets, leading the club to threaten to stop planting them.

In 1981, the club made planting the meter urns a public contest, asking anyone interested to “plant a pot for Punxsy.” Entrants brought their planted pots to the Barclay bandstand for display and judging on May 30. The top three winners earned prizes of $50, $30, and $20, respectively. The best pots were placed on the meter urns that year.

In 1977 the Punxsutawney Garden Club became affiliated with the Pennsylvania State Garden Club Federation and the National Association of State Garden Clubs and paid dues to both until 1994.

During those years the club participated in required flower shows that were rigorously critiqued by Federation standards and delegates attended state conventions. Margaret Sloaf, Elaine Barletta, Nancy Hallman, Louise Means, Jeanne Barletta, Mary Jo McMillen, Judy Hampton, and Kathy Domb served as GC presidents during those 17 years. About 1986, club members’ interest in those ambitious flower shows waned, so members agreed, even voted, that they no longer wanted to expend energy and resources on such flower shows and official requirements. The club would eventually discontinue paying dues to those affiliates as it wanted to dedicate its resources to beautification efforts in Punxsutawney’s downtown only.

In 1978, Garden Club hosted its first Holiday Happening in November at the new Mahoning Towers. Called “Adventure in Decorating,” the event was a bazaar with crafts, demonstrations, ceramics, candy making, china painting, salt dough ornaments, bow making, cake decorating, and holiday centerpieces. Nancy Hallman chaired this first

The club began recognizing Gardens of the Month in 1992. Pictured is Mrs. William (Dorothy) Gourley at 408 West Mahoning Street so honored in 1993. (photo taken by The Punxsutawney Spirit)

very successful event which continued to be held almost annually through 1985, usually at the Elks ballroom. Artist Joanne Garrett was an active member of the Garden Club at that time, and for several of the events she donated one of her artistic renderings of native plants as a raffle prize; in 1985 it was her popular “Lady Slipper” print.

The feminist movement of the 1980s was reflected in some changes to traditions of the Punxsutawney Garden Club. In 1980, the club moved meetings to 7 or 7:30 p.m. in the evenings to accommodate working women’s ability to attend.

- Continued on next page

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Garden Club

lic was invited. Records exist for a show at the Civic Complex in 1993, a 1995 show at the Pantall Hotel at which the club sold embroidered aprons Continued from previous page and chances to win a Jane Wooster Scott print of Also, the club’s active year became March through The Pride of Pennsylvania, a July show at the PanNovember, eliminating booklets labeled 1978tall Hotel in 1997 along with a Fall Happening in 1979.

November, and July flower shows in 1998 and 1999.

In 2000 the Garden Club held a onetime event to raise funds called “Antiques on the Road Show” on March 18 at the Punxsutawney Area Community Center. It was inspired by a popular television show called “Antiques Roadshow,” which debuted in the United States in 1997. Chairing the event was Kay Nesbitt with Sandy Walko and Colleen Means. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. that Saturday, the club had two antique appraisers on hand to evaluate items.

Garden Club members planting meter urns at Louise Participants were limited to three apMeans’ home in 1993: Louise Means, Helen Jeffries, Mary praisals per person for five dollars. It Jo McMillen, Kathy Domb, Debby Elder, Carol Lowmaster. was quite successful. (submitted photo) The year 2000 also saw a fine stone Another change came in the way members’ names planter constructed in front of the Barclay bandwere recorded in the club booklet that year. Since stand. In the first several years after it was built, a the club’s formation in 1933, members had not GC beautification committee planted it with red been listed by their first names but by their husbands’ names. For example, Roberta Dinsmore was listed as Mrs. Ray Dinsmore. Not so in the 1980 club booklet where her first name was now listed as “Dinsmore, Mrs. Ray W. (Robin).” Locally, women’s individual identities were being recognized as they were everywhere in the public sphere.

For example, it was in 1981 that Sandra Day O’Connor became the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court of the United States.

Flower shows, whether governed by Garden Club Federation rules or conducted just for the club and local public, were popular annual or even bi-annual themed events in these decades. The 1983 show, celebrating GC’s 50th anniversary, was titled “Let’s Celebrate.” Garden Club member Judy Hampton contacted PennDOT in 2000 to create this flower bed at the Jenks Avenue Others were “Country Charm” in intersection where the state had planned to fill in the area 1978, “On with the New” in 1979, with concrete. (submitted photo) “Fall Fantasy” in 1980, “In Tune with Nature” in September 1982, “Holiday Harvest” in geraniums. Also in 2000, because PennDOT was 1984, “Floral Serenade” in 1985, and “Groundhog doing some major renovative construction at the inDay” in September 1993. tersection of Jenks and Clark Streets and Hampton 1990s-2000s: Garden Club’s treasurer for the past Avenue where Route 119 enters Punxsutawney, 18 years, Debby Elder, joined the club in 1990. A member Judy Hampton saw an opportunity to creGC member for 33 years, she served as club treasate one of its most visible and attractive flower beds urer in 1992 through 1997 and was president in that passers-by have “oohed and aahed” about 1999. She again assumed the office of treasurer in since.

2006 and has been the club’s very competent treasLearning that a large space at that Route 119 inurer ever since. tersection was simply going to be cemented over, Listed as “continuing projects” in the 1992 club and not wanting “to see more cement,” Hampton booklet are the flower urns and holders on the says she contacted the PennDOT office in Indiana downtown parking meters, Barclay Square, and the and got permission to turn the space into a large, Findley Street Cemetery, Punxsutawney Area Hossemi-circular flower bed. The club also had the pital courtyard, Blue Bird Boxes, collecting Comforesight to have a waterline installed to the bed memorative Stamps for “Save the Eagle” (a with a spigot providing a reliable watering source national and state federation project also), Garden for the large space. The Garden Club pays a of the Month, and the plaza Trestle Bed, which was monthly water bill for that convenience. The created in 1989. The first recognitions for Gardens prominent sign in that bed reads, “Welcome from of the Month began in 1992 with the public invited the Punxsutawney Garden Club.” to nominate gardeners on forms available at sevJust this past summer of 2022, 22 years after it eral locations, including the public library. was installed, the club did the first major renovation The Punxsutawney Garden Club of the 1990s of that Jenks Avenue flower bed. The club hired a continued to have flower shows to which the pub- Continued on page 6

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Garden Club

from April through November.

Currently, the Punxsutawney Garden Club has these nine standing beautification committees with Continued from page 4 chairpersons noted: Hayracks, Dotty Jekielek and professional landscaping outfit with the equipment Kerri Stebbins; Meter Urns & Barrels, Debby needed to remove some tough, old ornamental Elder; N. Findley St. Cemetery, Clarence Troutgrasses that had become more weeds than ornaman; Jenks Avenue Flower Bed, Judy Hampton; ment. The Jenks Flower Bed Committee replaced Jenks Grasses, Gloria Kerr; Trestle Bed by Tractor them with young boxwood shrubs that will provide Supply plaza, Zana Fye; Barclay Square Bandstand an appropriate backdrop for the stunning, colorful and Library, Judy Hampton; Margiotti Bridge N. Main St., Melissa Ferguson; Fairman Centre Rose Beds, Gloria Kerr.

The Garden Club funds its beautification projects through fundraisers and numerous donations. Its constitution includes a bylaw, voted on by members, stating that the club does not donate money to other civic organizations, as was done in the club’s early years. Members feel any donation given to the Current Punxsutawney Garden Club officers: (l. to r.) Kim Wittenburg, president; Suzy Meyer, vice president; Gloria Kerr, secretary; Debby Elder, club should be used to beautify the community, treasurer; Dotty Jekielek, corresponding secretary. (submitted photo) not be arbitrarily spent on flowers that draw much admiration every summer. other group’s projects.

During Dotty Jekielek’s term as Garden Club Recent club president Gloria Kerr joined Garden president (2001-2003), the club revived home garClub in 2005, and her name first appears in the club den tours as a fundraiser. Six tours of local gardens, booklet in 2006. She served as club president in most having been recognized as Gardens of the 2008; then again she was elected president in 2011 Month, were organized in the next decade in these and served in that role continuously through 2022, years: 2003, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2012, and 2014. for a total of 13 years. Programs over that period Moreover, during Dotty Jekieliek’s presidency in have included a meeting held at a goat farm with 2003, the hayrack project was conceived; the Punxgoat cheese tasting and farm tour, beekeeper Bob sutawney Department of Public Works installed the Means on beekeeping and honey collection, Bill hayracks along downtown Mahoning Street in Monaco on identifying Pennsylvania wildflowers, 2004. how to collect heritage seeds, field trips to a couple The hayracks are the coco-lined wire baskets - Continued on next page mounted high on poles along main street, 14 of them now. Both community members and visitors alike love the lush, colorful beauty of the bright Punxsutawney Garden Club pink begonias, multicolored petunias draping over Ppresidents: 1971-2023 the sides, and trailing sweet potato vines that fill them each season. Volunteers from the community 1971-72 Mrs. Clark Miller with pick-up trucks and/or ladders take two-week 1972-74 Mrs. Anthony Barletta shifts throughout the summer to water those beau1974-76 Mrs. John Means ties, sometimes every other day if the sun is hot and 1976-77 Mrs. Ray Dinsmore (Roberta) rain is scarce, from June through September.

1977-78 Mrs. Robert Sloaf (Margaret) Just last fall, the Hayrack Committee constructed 1978-79 Mrs. Anthony Barletta over-sized Christmas ball ornament units which 1979-80 Mrs. Robert Sloaf were installed to make the hayracks at Mahoning 1981-82 Mrs. John Hallman (Nancy) Street intersections festive for the holiday season 1983Mrs. John Means (Louise) and through the new year till after Groundhog Day. 1984-85 Mrs. Ron (Jean) Barletta Next fall they plan to create more ornament units so 1986-87 Mrs. Paul (Mary Jo) McMillen that all 14 hayracks will feature the colorful over1988 Jean Barletta sized balls and greens.

1989-91 Judy Hampton The seed money for the hayrack project came 1992 Kathy Domb from a $5,000 bequeathal from the estate of Matt 1993 Mary Jo McMillen Tibby. Community member Tibby was a much re1994-95 Carol Lowmaster spected and honored veteran of World War I who 1996 Art Linhart/ Patti Daugherty died at the age of 106 in November 2001. The Gar1997-98 Patti Daugherty den Club appreciates very much his donation that 1999 Debby Elder represents the kind of public support that enables 2000 Kay Nesbitt the club to continue its mission to beautify Punx2001-2003 Dotty Jekielek sutawney.

2004 Mary Ann Anibaldi/ 2010-2023: Garden Club currently has 42 memPatricia Murdock bers listed in its 2023 club booklet. Over two-thirds 2005-08 Patricia Prushnok of them actively participate in beautification and 2008 Gloria Kerr other projects. Unlike the club’s founding mem2009-10 Susan Lefcowitz bers, the club doesn’t meet wearing white gloves 2011-22 Gloria Kerr for tea parties, luncheons, and card parties. Meet2023 Kim Wittenburg ings are still held on the first Tuesday of the month •••

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Garden Club

Flowers” at the Lions Club’s Camp Little Leo on a gorgeous September Saturday. Professional gardener, writer, and speaker Doug Oster from PittsContinued from previous page burgh made the featured presentation entitled “Fall Bulb Planting,” which included gorgeous slides wineries and a hemp farm, Mark Kephart with his Doug collected showing both lovely flowers that local wildlife photographs including eagles, and grow from fall-planted bulbs as well as a segment much more. on garlic. Attendees enjoyed a beautifully preIn March 2018, 2019, and 2020, the club hosted sented brunch with many delicious choices as well as the chance to win raffle items.

In the last decade during Kerr’s term as club leader, as noted, the Jenks Avenue bed has been renovated. Other Garden Club projects this decade include renovating the Fairman rose beds in 2012, totaling revising the Jenks AvA shade garden with sandstone walls and bench has recently been completed enue grass bed in at Gobbler’s Knob in memory of Jean Deeley, who passed away in April 2021. May 2014, planting Her husband Bill, a former, long-time president of the Inner Circle, had asked ornamental that donations in her memory be sent to Garden Club for the project. The new garden is located behind the gift shop building at the entrance to the walking grasses and shrubs at the Community trail. (submitted photo) Center in 2016-17, replacing the dying Kwanzan cherry trees along a very popular fundraising event at Joyce’s Greendowntown Mahoning Street in 2017 with Trinity house on the second Saturday in March. Called pear trees and Royal Raindrop crabapple trees “Spring into Flowers,” the event included a fabu(both natives), replacing timbers and plants at the lous breakfast/brunch, basket raffle, a professional Trestle Bed near Tractor Supply in 2019, and takspeaker who presented a garden-related presentaing over the Community Garden at Rotary Club’s tion, and the opportunity to plant a flower conrequest in 2020. tainer with one of several live plant combinations.

The Community Garden, however, will not be a Joyce kept the pots warm, watered, and wellGarden Club project this summer of 2023 as the tended in her greenhouse until event goers picked Duffells, who bought the Pantall Hotel and are renthem up at the end of April. The COVID pandemic ovating it, have also bought the Community Garcanceled the planned spring 2021 seminar as it den lot back from the Presbyterian Church (which canceled so many other events for everyone in the bought it from another Pantall Hotel owner a few United States. years ago). The garden bed frames have been disHowever, in the fall of 2022, Garden Club held its mantled as the Pantall’s new owners will use that last major fundraiser, a seminar called “Fall into

The Stebbins prepare the empty hayracks for planting, and the result of such preparation – a hayrack in full bloom! (submitted photos)

property in their renovations. The club is hopeful that the Community Garden can be relocated in the borough in the future.

A major project just completed is the Jean Deeley Memorial Garden created at Gobblers Knob in the area behind the building that houses a gift shop and large meeting space. When Garden Club member Jean Deeley passed away in April 2021, her husband Bill, a longtime president of the Groundhog Inner Circle, asked that memorials for Jean be sent to the Garden Club to create a garden in her memory. Jean had joined GC in 2000 and served as club treasurer from 2001 to 2005, the first two years as an assistant to Peggy Johnston.

The Jean Deeley memorial project features a low stone wall framing the garden that includes a sandstone bench for meditation. Chad’s Landscaping, Inc., did the groundwork. Garden Club members Barb Certo and Suzy Meyer have coordinated with Bill Deeley and Groundhog Club president Tom Dunkel on the project. Meyer has chosen plants, including many native plants donated by Garden Club members, to create a lovely space that will

be an asset to Gobbler’s Knob and a fitting tribute in Jean’s memory. Suzy Meyer has been the garden’s master planner.

The Punxsutawney Garden Club welcomes new members. The current officers are President Kim Wittenburg, Vice President Suzy Meyer, Secretary Gloria Kerr, Treasurer Debby Elder, and Corresponding Secretary Dotty Jekielek.

The next GC meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 6, at Sharon Murray’s home at 905 East Mahoning Street, Punxsutawney. Dues are $10. If interested in attending, contact Gloria Kerr at drgkerr@gmail.com or any Garden Club member for more information.

Thanks to Barb Certo, who provided notes with information on the first two decades of the Punxsutawney Garden Club’s history, and to Debby Elder, Dotty Jekielek, and Judy Hampton, whose brains I picked for detailed memories of their many years in the club. Other information was gleaned from Garden Club historic scrapbooks, annual member booklets, and meeting records.

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y dad loved Punxsutawney and all its stores, churches, and restaurants. He loved all the folks who made the town tick. Dad drove around the main street on a Friday evening, just to see the parade of folks who used to linger there; he tooted the horn of his old blue station wagon in a salute to friends or neighbors who hung out on the corner of the G.C. Murphy store. He parked his car in an old lot on North Gilpin Street and strolled up to chat with the television guy who had the TV store. Later, he drove to the gas station and shot the breeze with the owner. Dad knew the manager of every grocery store and market; he was on first-name basis with the tellers in the bank. His favorite waitress always got him a sugared doughnut, and his favorite check-out clerk at the market always had time to chit-chat.

My Dad loved his home, a yellow-brick house that he scrimped and saved to build in Fairview on a little piece of land that he purchased in 1955.

My dad loved his old, blue wheelbarrow. Next to my mom and me, I think that the rusted, rickety wheelbarrow was his greatest possession. His father, a coal miner who hailed from Coral Pennsylvania, presented my dad with this prize when I was a little girl. Over the years, dad probably dug more holes than a pack of gophers; he hauled more dirt than a backhoe at a mall construction site; and he enjoyed every moment of his labor. His blue metal companion and he single handedly – rather, double handedly – landscaped our house, performed multiple septic tank digs, and mulched more flower beds than any other father-wheelbarrow team in history.

My dad loved being on time. In all the years my father worked, he was never late for his job. He was never late for any occasion, whether a birthday party, a Mass at church, a doctor appointment, or even picking me up from school or my mom up from work. When he arrived home for lunch – you could set the clock by his landing time – you could make his fried egg sandwich, put it on a dish, and he would walk through the front door with a big smile on his face. His favorite gift was a watch or a clock, and I treasure his wrist watches. I love to smell his leather watch bands, which, to this day – years after his passing – still have a faint scent of Old Spice cologne.

My dad loved animals. I will always remember the day he brought home a stray, bedraggled police dog and tenderly bathed him in our washtub in the basement. Dad took me to a real wiener dog ranch when I was a kid. There, he let me pick out my first dachshund puppy that he named Gus. Other dogs followed: Heidi, Augie, Lilly, and Alfredo – Dad cared for all of them up to the end. I particularly remember him wrapping one of them in a little baby blanket and nursing it back to health after a surgery. I also recall when my father burst into tears at his 50th anniversary party as he struggled to tell some guests that his dog, Heidi, had just traveled to the Rainbow Bridge.

“Did you know that my little doggy just died,” he whispered to my uncle and aunt. Then, a tear rolled down his cheek, and he bowed his head.

My dad loved ketchup and lots of it. He slathered it on hotdogs and hamburgers. He dipped his French fries in it and never felt a bit embarrassed about pouring it on a juicy sirloin steak or prime rib. Dad even squeezed it into vegetable soup and irreverently put it on meatball sandwiches.

My dad loved parades. My father went to every parade in Punxsutawney and held my hand as I walked in the snow during one Halloween at the annual procession. Dressed in my dreaded gray snow pants, Dad led me along with the other Halloween parade participants on a chilly October evening in the 1950s. As a former World War II veteran who played trumpet and was part of the Army band, Dad could not contain himself at a robust rendition of the “The Stars and Stripes Forever” or “The Washington Post March.” He hummed, tapped, and even marched in place from

“Dad and Me” – original artwork by Mary Ellen Raneri (8.5x10.5 sandpaper [cut out], rag paper, acrylic paint, ink, black walnut dye).

his spot on the sidewalk as the parade streamed past him. To this day, I cannot listen to any John Philip Sousa marches without shedding a wistful tear.

Dad loved shining his shoes. He loved polishing his State Police, shiny, black, leather uppers until you could see his face in the shine. Seated beside him at our kitchen table, I studied him every night as he buffed his black police shoes with Kiwi polish and used a torn T-shirt as a polishing rag. Dad also loved shoes without laces and the tongues removed. Yes, my father created slip-on garden shoes, long before they were in style or invented, for that matter. Typically, he took a pair of garden shears and designed his outdoor wear from an old pair of beat-up tennis shoes. Dad was light years ahead of shoe designers and didn’t even know it.

Dad loved drawing pictures for me when I was a little girl. While we waited in the old blue station wagon to pick up Mom from work, my dad patiently sketched the same thing: two squares connected at the corners – then adding a chimney with a puff of smoke, windows, and a door. Sometimes, seated at our kitchen table, my father drew funny cartoons with little bald stick people and dogs with big noses. Fascinated, I thought Dad was a phenomenal artistic genius and made him do those drawings over and over.

Dad loved spaghetti. He loved to buy Cumberland brand spaghetti at Mr. Infantino’s little store near the bridge in town. In addition, when he ate pasta, he tried to speak with a fake Italian accent, which was kind of amusing since he was Slovak and German. Nonetheless, my Italian grandmother entertained his chopped Italian and continued to ply him with her juicy meatballs, braciole, and of course, spaghetti soaked in her delectable homemade sauce.

“Take-a some more-a, Bernie (which was my dad’s middle name),” my grandmother used her broken English to cajole my father into extra helpings of her pasta.

Dad usually replied with, “good-a spaghet,” and thought he had completely mastered the Italian language.

Dad loved all the bar and grills in Punxsutawney.

The Findley Hotel, The Blue Tavern, Murdock’s, and Villella’s in Elk Run were several of his favorites. He generally stopped at a “beer garden” for a beer or two after he mowed the lawn.

Dad loved Westerns. Part of my childhood television menu included Gunsmoke, The Rifleman, Bonanza, The Virginian, and Wagon Train. Usually, on a Saturday night, we all watched Gunsmoke (my father admired Festus), and we munched on doughnuts that Dad brought home from the McKenzie Bakery. Life just couldn’t get any better than that!

Dad loved mowing the lawn. It was his “thing,” and no one was qualified enough to do it properly.

I can still see Daddy dressed in frayed, pale blue shorts that hung almost off his skinny behind and - Continued on page 21

Punxsutawney AM Radio: The Erhard Era I

By S. Thomas Curry of Hometown magazine

n the recent April issue of Punxsutawney Hometown magazine, readers were invited to share memories about the “golden years” of the AM frequency of Punxsutawney’s first commercial radio station. Those shared memories were appreciated because they give color and flavor to the facts of local history.

WPME went on the air in March 1953. It all started when young Charles Erhard came to Punxsutawney on February 1, 1953, from Bluefield, West Virginia, where he was commercial manager of a radio station. The call letters for the Punxsutawney station would remind us of his place in local history when he came to the

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Charles “Charlie” Erhard, founder of WPME in 1953, was owner of Punxsutawney’s pioneer radio station for nearly 30 years. Shortly after his arrival, he became a member of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, and its president in 1976. With his connection to radio and TV stations he was responsible for sending news about Punxsutawney’s Groundhog Day to hundreds of radio and TV stations around the country. (photocopy from January 24,1973, Punxsutawney Spirit)

In 1953, Punxsutawney radio WPME went on the air as a locally owned, community AM radio station with area programs of news, music, and sports from dawn to dusk. In 1973, the radio station added an FM frequency to become WPME-AM and WPME-FM. (photo by S. Thomas Curry)

town of Punxsutawney, already well-known nationally for its association with Groundhog Day on February 2 each year.

When the news was announced in the local newspaper about the formal opening of WPME, it was stated that Charles Erhard was “the youngest general manager in broadcasting history in the United States.” But radio listeners in the Punxsutawney area were not unfamiliar with AM radio, as popular programs on national radio networks of NBC, ABC, and CBS were transmitted from stations in big cities. Pittsburgh had its powerful KDKA and WJAS, Philadelphia with KYW, and WBZ was Boston’s AM station.

In the Punxsutawney area 1940s AM community-based radio was already established in DuBois, Clearfield, Indiana, and Kittanning, with appropriate call letters. The first air date for WCED was in 1941, founded by the CourierExpress newspaper group in DuBois. WCPA in Clearfield went on the air in 1947. Kittanning’s WACB went on the air in 1949 with its call letters that reflected Armstrong County Broadcasting. As with other daytime radio stations in each community, the goal was to program local news, area sports, and music.

In the first years of WPME’s daytime schedule, programming began at 6:30 a.m. with its “Wake Up” program, followed by news, with news on the hour. The day ended with news and the “Sign-Off” at sundown around 8:30 p.m. in

the summer months.

Research from older copies of the Punxsutawney Spirit was the source of information about its activities and programs that relate to the radio’s purpose. Particularly, as a “community radio.” One event in the first month of its air time was noteworthy. On an afternoon day in late April 1953, it cooperated with the Civil Defense Corps for what was claimed as “Punxsutawney’s first full-fledged air alert since World War II.” For the state-wide alert, WPME and WCED in DuBois were on the air to announce the start of sirens that began the alert and to announce the “all clear” signal that ended the six-minute drill. Another similar drill was held in October 1953.

Such activity of the WPME involvement in the community is not among the memories that have been offered by Hometown readers. The daily programs that informed, entertained, and created local pride in the community were shared by several folk who listened as young adults in the 1960s. Their memories of Punxsutawney radio began when they were school students and when television (TV) had become popular as a visual/audio form of communication and entertainment in the 1950s. When radio began locally, area youth were regularly watching TV shows on WJAC-TV (Johnstown) or Pittsburgh’s WDTV. Among those favorites were “Howdy Doody,” “Captain Video,” “The Lone Ranger,” or “Kukla, Fran and Ollie.” Radio and television stores were established. (Remember the big Joe Beatty’s Radio & Television Store on Pine Street?)

Local radio personalities with their unique “radio voices” were among the memories recalled from listeners to WPME. In addition to the strong “radio voice” of Charles Erhard, the voices of Gil Lainey, Bob Curry, Bill Sisk, Larry McGuire, Lou Jordan, and Josh Widdowson were remembered.

Among area residents who offered interesting notes from memory was Ruth (Manners) Soliday, who began her experience with WPME in 1963 when the radio station was celebrating its 10th anniversary on the air. She remembers when she was hired. A business student in the Punxsutawney High School with Terry Daly as her teacher, WPME station manager Charles Erhard, requested a recommendation of a student for - Continued on next page

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Punxsutawney AM Radio Continued from previous page

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10 – Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272

employment in the office. Ruth was recommended, hired, and worked in the office in the former Punxsutawney Hospital Building on North Gilpin Street. She described the building as “old and spooky.”

With particular detail she remembered the dawn to dusk programming that included local news at 9 a.m., followed by Hospital News at 9:05, which also included accident news. She recalled that “it took a lot of time for the accident report.” At 9:15 a.m., Devotion Time was scheduled with a brief inspirational message from area ministers. (Sundays would include a live worship service broadcast from a local church.)

Also, among the morning programs was the Women’s Show hosted by Virginia Bailey or Anne Mumper at 9:30. Also, a Trading Post program invited area residents to offer items for sale or trade.

The Noon News Hour was at 12:00 p.m. when staff members of the Punxsutawney Spirit read local and area news. The afternoon was filled with music, offered from vinyl records on a studio turntable. Ruth’s memories were that vinyl records were provided by record companies to promote music by vocalists, or from Dan Benson’s Record Shop, in exchange for the cost of an advertisement. Ruth recalled the afternoon music included Polka Party at 3 o’clock and Rock ’n’ Roll at 3:30 when students were home from school. (Older readers might remember the afterschool programs of Hit Parade or Bandstand.) After local and state news at 6 p.m., the music was appropriate “easy listening” music for adults, such as Sammy Kaye, until sign-off time as the sun set. When necessary, the evening music was substituted with live broadcast of a seasonal sports event of baseball, football, or basketball.

With WPME on the air for a decade, since 1953, those particular memories were in the 1960s. Soon, years of change came to the lone “community” radio station of WPME that was owned and managed by Charles Erhard. With growth and outreach in mind for the area, it was in 1973 that a major change occurred in location for the office and studios. In the spring of 1973, construction began for new studios for the office and studios along PA Route 36, a mile north from downtown Punxsutawney and North Gilpin Street where studios were in the old hospital building when it began on the air broadcasts. The new location was near where a Jamesway Store was constructed in 1972.

WPME went on the air in its new modern “Broadcast House” studios in December 1973. with a simulcast of programming as WPMEFM. After years of working through piles of paperwork required by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC), Charles Erhard was able to add an FM station to the “dawn-to-dusk AM station in order to serve the area better. A powerful “sister station,” WPMEFM, began transmitting broadcasts at 3,000 watts from the new studios and was on the air for 24-hours, For radio broadcasting, AM (Amplified Modulation) had its limitations. FM (Frequency Modulation) offered a difference in sound quality and range and was considered better than QUALITY & EXCELLENCE SINCE 1970

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Many memories about WPME radio can be shared among older residents. A program log for WPME, printed in the Punxsutawney Spirit in 1953, indicates the variety of local programs on the air of Punxsutawney’s pioneer radio station. (photocopy of April 28, 1953, Punxsutawney Spirit)

AM stations. (Research informs that FM radio was invented before World War II but didn’t become widely used until the mid-1970s.) The cost of establishing an AM station was low, requiring a simple transmitter and receiver. Its primary limitations for broadcasting were static noises, interference in radio lines from machinery, and electric storms. AM was considered more useful for talk radio and news. For comparison, FM broadcasting reduced static noise, offered a higher quality of sound more suitable for music.

Though its signal served a wider area the FM signal was blocked by mountainous areas, tall buildings, and trees between the transmitter towers and receivers.

WPME AM/FM was the call letter for Punxsutawney’s local commercial radio programming until late 1981.WPME as an AM station continued its function with FCC to provide Emergency Calls as they were needed. Through the 1970s, listening to WPME and WPME-FM offered a different radio experience for radio fans. Radios, including car radios, had to be adapted to provide FM stations for listeners.

With the experienced “Charlie” Erhard at WPME, the radio station became an asset to promoting Punxsutawney and its activities. With radio, and his “radio voice,” Erhard was a town booster and was dubbed the unofficial “cheerleader” for Punxsutawney. In the 1970s listeners were introduced to the Rotary Radio Auction when Erhard was the radio auctioneer as listeners called in with bids for hundreds of donated items. In 1974 nearly 200 were auctioned to raise money for the Rotary Clubs Charity Fund.

Also in 1974, to support its charitable activities, the Kiwanis Club aired its “Harvest of Talent Radiothon” on WPME. Local talent, vocal or instrumental, was showcased as individuals, duets, or groups were given the opportunity to perform - Continued on page 25

Congratulations

A Keepsake Edition from Punxsutawney Hometown magazine

C L A S S O F 2 02 3

PUNXSUTAWNEY AREA HIGH SCHOOL • JEFF TECH • PUNXSUTAWNEY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Gavyn Anderson

Griffin Barrick

Ezekiel Bennett

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Olivia Bish

Chariti Blair

Kaylee Blair

Lauren Brauer

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Ashlyn Catarouche

Ty Caylor

Charles Patrick Connell

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Christine DaSilva

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www.jeffersonmachine.com Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272 – 11

Congratulations C L A S S O F 2 02 3 AUTO • BOAT • ATV

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LOVE, MOM, DAD & MAGS

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12 – Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272

2023!

Sydney, Congratulations, for achieving your graduation!!

You truly deserve every best thing the world is going to offer.

I could not be more proud.

Love, Mom

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www.famcoservice.com Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272 – 13

Jake,

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Continue to dream big!

Congratulations C L A S S O F 2 02 3

We love you!

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14 – Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272

The “HR-Lady” for Nonprofits & Small Businesses

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Logan Zeitler

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Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272 – 15

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CLASS OF 2 02 3

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16 – Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272

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Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272 – 17

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18 – Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272

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Murder at Horatio

The North House was located on the west side of North Findley Street, north of the Railroad Tracks. It was torn down in 1909 to make way for the Lauderbach Barber Building, which is now occupied by a number of businesses. J.K. North, owner, testified to seeing the defendants at the North House on March 15, 1890, but did not see them on March 20. (photo courtesy of the Punxsutawney Area Historical & Genealogical Society)

ables. It was estimated that the proceeds of the store sale would be about $4,090. The itinerants saw an opportunity.

On Friday evening, March 20, Sutter’s wagon establishment at Clayville was entered, a hole was drilled into the safe, and the door was blown open with powder. There was nothing in the safe. The intruders, using the survival skills of “men of the road,” appropriated some tools from a chest in a house, under construction at the lower end of town, and disappeared into the darkness of the night.

On Saturday evening, according to Morey Frank, store manager at Horatio, Officer William Smiles, of the Coal and Iron Police at Horatio, stopped and vis-

By the Coal Memorial Committee for Hometown magazine

I

t was 1890. The industrial revolution was at its peak. The nation was on the cusp of an economic panic. Coal was generating an economic boom in the Punxsutawney area. The rapid development of the community was fueled by a demand for coke for the iron smelting industry along the Lake Erie Shore. There was money to be made. And where there is money, there are those who seek every opportunity to relieve the unsuspecting of their money. In the spring of 1890, a gang of itinerant, unattached men arrived in the Punxsutawney area with the intention of gathering as much money as they could, in as short a time as possible.

The itinerants were systematic in their approach.

They used aliases. John Wier, James Lewis, and Robert White introduced themselves to locals in

The Eureka Supply Co., also known as the Company Store at Horatio. Morey Frank, store manager, testified that William Smiles was in the store about 9 p.m. on March 21, 1890. After Officer Smiles left the store, Morey heard something like a shot, went outside, and found Officer Smiles lying in front of the store. (photo courtesy of PAHGS)

Punxsutawney as Charlie Wilson, James Lane, and William Burns when they registered at different local hotels in the town. They engaged in casual conversations with local people to learn about opportunities in the area.

The talk in the town in March 1890 was about the week-long sale at Frank Miller’s store in Clayville not far from Horatio Mines. Word on the street was that Sheriff Sutter, who was conducting the sale, had a safe in his wagon shop where he kept his valu-

The National Hotel, 1908. This hotel was built on the site at the intersection of Union and Gilpin Streets in Punxsutawney where the original Forest Hotel, operated by Jacob Burkett, once stood. In 1859, the Forest House was renamed the National Hotel with Robert Bouch as the proprietor. In 1890, it was the oldest hotel in Punxsutawney, and it was where the itinerants involved in the shooting of Officer Smiles stayed. The National Hotel burned Wednesday afternoon August 3, 1898, and was replaced by the New National Hotel, shown in this picture. (photo courtesy of PAHGS)

ited with him in the store about 9 p.m. Officer Smiles, who had previously worked at the BerwindWhite Coal Mining Company at Houtzdale, was familiar with the habits of itinerants at the coal mines.

Smiles left the store to continue his rounds. Hearing noise, Morey Frank rushed out and found Officer William Smiles, who had been shot. Frank arranged for Smiles to be carried to his residence at his sister’s house and sent for a doctor.

The itinerants again disappear into the dark.

On the morning of March 22, three itinerants were seen coming out of the Horatio School House. They separated, one walking toward Horatio and the other two following the train tracks toward Punxsutawney.

Lewis and White were arrested by Policeman John A. Colkitt near the cut in the railroad in the Borough of Punxsutawney. Attorney William M. Fairman took them to see William Smiles where they were identified as part of the gang he had encountered.

Later that day, Wier was arrested and brought before William Smiles, who identified him as another one of the gang. The three men were taken to a hearing before ’Squire Cooper. Revolvers were found on all of them, and a diamond glass cutter and a package of powder was also found on Wier. The trio was taken to Frampton & Work’s gallery on Monday morning where they were photographed. A circular with the picture of the three itinerants and descriptions of the two who had escaped arrest was distributed to police departments across the state.

- Continued on page 21

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Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272 – 19

9 LUCKY DADS WILL WIN!

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3. One entry will be selected for each participating business through a random drawing from all entries to be held on Wed., June 14, 2023.

5. Participants can only win once per contest.

6. By participating in the contest, all entries are subject to contest rules.

7. One entry per envelope please.

8. Winners will be announced on our Facebook page after May 10 and in the June Hometown magazine.

20 – Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272

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My Dad’s

Continued from page 8 flapped in the wind when he pushed the lawnmower in straight lines along the side of his property. Always greeting me with a big smile and a wave, my father would take those measured, perfect strides over to my car, where I would make fun of his old sneakers with the canvas tongues cut out and the orange paper “Safety-First” cap that sat crooked on his head.

“Easier to put them on,” he would laugh, taking off his paper hat, scratching his head, and gesturing toward those beat-up, grass-stained shoes.

Dad loved the Pittsburgh Pirates on warm summer nights, sled rides on snowy winter evenings, and burning leaves on crisp fall days.

Most of all, my dad loved me. One day, when I was a little girl, my father took me to a get-together that was held at a friend’s summer place on Route 36 – on the way to Indiana. Their stone home was located deep in a forest filled with lofty, dark, green pine trees; a wrought iron fence surrounded the entire property. Clutching my dad’s hand, we walked through a big gate and down a dirt path that led to a small cottage that looked just like the one in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Fascinated, I gazed at the windows; they all had wooden shutters with a blossom-filled flower box under each one. Covered in multicolored field stone and almost completely draped with thick ivy, the house seemed magical to me, and I waited to see if a tiny fairy or a beautiful princess would peek out at me from one of the panes of glass.

To the left of the front of the fairy tale dwelling – there in the lawn – a small puppet theater sat ready to entertain and amuse the children at the party. The problem was – that show scared me for some reason. The puppets jerked their arms and legs as the puppeteer yanked on the strings.

They banged into each other or stuck limbs in and out, up and down. Frightened, I clung to my dad’s leg and buried my face in the soft material

of his trousers. He just held my hand a little tighter and everything was okay then. Nothing could hurt me as long as my dad was there.

These days, dad’s not physically with me anymore. Neither is my mom. Regardless, I kept his old garden shoes and a vintage can of his favorite car wax in our garage. His orange “Safety-First” cap hangs on a peg there too, and I’m always careful to mow in straight rows when I cut the lawn. I’m always on time, I love parades, and I put ketchup on most everything, especially hotdogs at a Pirates game – my dad sure would be proud that I haven’t folded to the popular practice of topping my dog with mustard. I still have his trumpet in its red velvet case, a poignant memento of Dad’s service to his country. I think of my father every time I hear a military march.

Here’s to everyone who believes that their dad is a hero, even if he drives an old station wagon and doesn’t fly, even if he sports goofy garden shoes with no laces, and doesn’t wear a superhero cape, even if he’s no Picasso – even if he’s just a regular dad with a pencil and paper who enjoys drawing for his child. Here’s to everyone who thinks their dad is the greatest man in the world – and the smartest one, too. Here’s to everyone still lucky enough to talk with their dads once in a while – or more! Finally, here’s to all heavenly dads – including my own wheelbarrow-pushing dad – who keep watch over us.

•••

Murder at Horatio Continued frompage 19 Two of the men arrested were transferred to the County Jail at Brookville. The third one would follow later.

Officer William Smiles died on Monday, March 24, 1890, and the charges against the itinerants became one of murder.

The trial for the three itinerants took place on Friday, December 5, 1890. It took the whole morning to select members of the jury who were: David Hartman, Reynoldsville; W.M. Brown, Union

Township; Robert S. Wolf, Washington Township; John Hillis, Winslow; James Cooper, Brockwayville; Peter Mineweaser, Eldred; Philip Mehring, Clayville; Samuel Holt, Snyder; Noah Strouse, Winslow; John Reily, Brookville; Hiram Deemer, Pinecreek; and C.A. Stephenson, Reynoldsville.

The trial commenced that afternoon with Attorney Fairman stating the circumstances and the evidence by which the Commonwealth was bringing the charge of murder.

The information provided to the jury included: a map of Horatio; testimony of Morey D. Frank regarding the event on the night of March 21, which was substantiated by John Garrett and John Richards; testimony of Dr. Hamilton; testimony by hotel operators and others who had seen the itinerants in Punxsutawney and the Horatio vicinity; information provided by the arresting officers; statements by the family of William Smiles; and statements by William Smiles, including his description of approaching the itinerants and asked what they were doing in that vicinity and the altercation that ensued, including the exchange of gunshots and his identification of the individuals on trial as those who shot him. On Saturday, December 6, at 4:30 p.m., the prosecution completed its presentation. The Court recessed until 10 o’clock Monday morning.

On Monday, December 8, the trial continued. The attorneys for the defense recalled several of the Commonwealth’s witnesses and brought in witnesses, whose testimony called into question the type of guns the defendants had in their possession.

Each of the three defendants testified that they had left the coke ovens about eight o’clock on March 21, went to the school where a miner’s meeting was being held, and went into the school house after the meeting and stayed there all night. A Mr. Swabb, testifying on behalf of the defendants, stated that William Smiles owned a Smith & Wesson double action hammerless, .38 caliber revolver; that Smiles’s revolver was a five-shooter, that all five chambers were filled before the shooting, and that Smiles had emptied his revolver, also that not more than seven shots were heard.

Although the Commonwealth had a large number of witnesses waiting who could testify to the character of the defendants, the Court chose not to hear them, and evidence was closed Monday afternoon.

On the morning of December 9, 1890, the Court heard final statements by the Commonwealth and the Defense. Judge Wilson’s charge to the jury lasted an hour and a half. At 10:30 a.m. the case went to the jury. At 5 p.m. the jury returned, their verdict: Guilty of Murder in the Second Degree. The men were sent to the Western Penitentiary.

Postscript: In February 1900, Robert White, alias William Burns, and Manayunk Whitney, of Philadelphia, and James Lewis, alias James Lane or Lean, and Shenandoah Jimmy, of Schuylkill County, were released from the Western Penitentiary on February 1, having served sentences of 10 years and 11 months each for the murder of William Smiles. They were immediately rearrested on charges of felonious assault and battery, shooting an officer, and larceny. Wier remained in the penitentiary. The two itinerants who escaped prosecution in Jefferson County were the Kelly Brothers, who in 1890 were convicted of the murder of John Mutcher in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, in 1890.

This article has been prepared by the Coal Memorial Committee of the Punxsutawney Area Historical & Genealogical Society. Resources used in preparing his article are from PAHGS, Punxsutawney News @ Newspapers.com., and the Library of Congress. Direct comments to PAHGS, P.O. Box 286, Punxsutawney, PA 15767. A dedication for the 2023 memorial tile additions to the Punxsutawney Area Coal Memorial will take place on Sunday, September 3, 2023. The last chance for including a tile in the 2023 dedication is rapidly approaching – tiles must be purchased by June 30, 2023.. A Coal Memorial tile may honor persons who worked in any aspect of the coal industry, including railroads and ancillary services. Additional information and forms may be found online at www.punxsyhistory.org or may be requested by an email to punxsyhistory@outlook.com, or calling (814) 938-2555 and leaving a message.

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Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272 – 21

Kenneth E. Miller of Cloe May 29, 1945 - April 24, 2023 Ken was an active member of the Cloe United Methodist Church for 42 years, serving as a Sunday School teacher, Lay Speaker, Lay Leader, President of the Church Board and member of the men’s group.

Music was an important part of Ken’s life, and he provided music in various ways but was best known for singing in the Kingdom Praise Men’s Quartet at churches, nursing homes, and festivals.

Ken was a former member of the Elk Run Fire Department. He worked 35 years for PennDOT as a heavy equipment operator.

Ken enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and spending time at his camp. He had a good sense of humor. Most of all Ken loved spending time with his family, the joy of his life.

He is survived by his wife, Carol; a son, Robert (Lorena) Miller; a daughter, Jean (Scott) Rose; a grandson, Ian Robert Rose; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Glendola (Frampton) Miller; three sisters, Velma Kitchen, Hazel Long, and Elsie Marie Miller; and a brother, Ronald Miller.

McCabe Funeral Home, Inc. (www.mccabewaldronfh.com) u Virgil C. Buzard of Punxsutawney April 21, 1946 - April 25, 2023 Virgil was an active member of the Canoe Ridge Church of God, where he enjoyed mowing the grass and taking care of the church. He also was a proud member of the NRA. He was a graduate of Red Bank High School. Virgil worked most of his career at IA Construction and retired from Derry Construction. He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting – especially deer and turkey – and watching the Pirates, Penguins, and Steelers. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family and visiting with friends.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Judith “Judy” (McCracken) Buzard; a daughter, Kelly Koppenhaver; three grandchildren, Rylie Koppenhaver, and Bailey and Tanner Snyder; one great-grandchild, Cooper DeFelice; a stepson, Christopher (Jennifer) Snyder; a daughter-in-law, Stephanie Snyder; a sister, Lucille (Marlin) Rupp; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents,

Clark and Josephine (Springer) Buzard; a stepson, Martin Earl Snyder; three sisters, Wilma Kriebel, Nancy Oss, and Joanne Vuichoud; and a brother, Donald Buzard.

McCabe Funeral Home, Inc. (www.mccabewaldronfh.com) u Donna L. Weaver of Mahaffey February 26, 1938 - April 27, 2023 Donna worked for Butler Association for the Blind. She was most known for working at the driver’s license center in Punxsutawney for over 20 years.

Donna loved puzzles and crocheting, and she was a volunteer for Community Action.

She loved spending time with her family, her cats, and taking care of her grandchildren.

She is survived by two daughters, Melanie (Ken) D. Voris and Tracy D. Weaver; two grandchildren, Rebekah E. Voris, DuBois, and Ryan K. Voris, San Rafael, California.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer Milton and Lola I. (Wetzel) Gaston; her husband, Raymond “Jake” Weaver; a sister, Miriam Larsen; and a brother, Lloyd Gaston.

McCabe Funeral Home, Inc. (www.mccabewaldronfh.com) u Anna Bell Behrendt of Punxsutawney August 1, 1931 - April 30, 2023 Anna was a member of Saints Cosmas and Damian Catholic Church. She enjoyed cooking and baking, and she loved her family.

She is survived by a daughter and four sons, Karen (Richard) Ganz, James (Diane), Gary (Debra), Gerald (Becky), and Daniel; seven grandchildren, Allan (Amanda), Chris, Todd, Heather (Andrew) Martin, DJ (Lindsey), Stacey, Nicole (Kyle); 14 great-grandchildren; three great-greatgrandchildren; a brother, Samuel Parise (Carol); and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Anna Marie (Bianco) Parise; husband, James L. Behrendt; a grandson, Dylan Behrendt; three sisters, Rosalie McCullough, Francis McDaniels, and Theresa Spadaro; and three brothers, Thomas, James, and Anthony Parise.

McCabe Funeral Home, Inc. (www.mccabewaldronfh.com) u

Alice S. Morris of Punxsutawney August 8, 1926 - April 30, 2023 Alice was a member of the First English Lutheran Church of Punxsutawney and a longtime member of the church’s choir.

She was a graduate of the Punxsutawney High School, Class of 1944. After graduation, she worked for the FBI and in the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., from 1944 to 1946. While in Washington, D.C., she witnessed President Roosevelt’s funeral parade. She then married and moved back to Punxsutawney and worked as a telephone operator and then later as a salesperson for Nationwide in Punxsutawney.

Alice was a charter member of the Punxsutawney Theatre Arts Guild and performed, directed, designed, and served as a seamstress for 40 plays in her lifetime. She thoroughly enjoyed being a member of the Punxsutawney Garden Club.

She is survived by three sons, Danny (Roxanne) Morris, Doug (Helen) Morris, and David (Lesley) Morris; eight grandchildren, Missy (Larry) Rogers, Kelley (Brian) Cooper, Kristin (Jon) Dean, Marla Morris and Scott Gibson, Sarah (Levi) Rogers, Sean (Alyssa) Morris, and Ian (Destinee) Morris; five great-grandchildren, Jayna and Noah Cooper, Holden Gent, Asa Rogers and Maxby Morris; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, William M. Morris, and parents, Ethel (Sickles) and Harry Smith, she was preceded in death by two brothers, John and Chuck Smith, a sister, Mary Lou Cooper, and a granddaughter, Rachel Morris.

Deeley Funeral Home, Inc. (www.deeleyfuneralhome.com) u William Joseph Jarbeck, II of Punxsutawney May 21, 1947 - May 1, 2023, at his home Bill was a Vietnam War Veteran, having served in the U.S. Army as a heavy truck operator.

Bill was a lifelong member of the American Legion, a member of Punxsutawney Elks Lodge #301, which honored him as Elk of the Year 2014-15, the Punxsutawney FOE #1231, and St. Adrian Catholic Church.

Bill was a self-employed truck driver, a skilled mechanic, and the owner of Bill’s Auto Service.

Bill was a country music lover. When he was

younger, he enjoyed hunting with his dad, siblings, and brothers-in-law. He also enjoyed studying and learning about guns, coins, and antiques. He had an endless knowledge of vehicles, especially Lincolns and trucks, but no truck was better than a Dodge! Bill will be sorely missed and lovingly remembered for his wit and one-liners, especially reminding everyone, “What it is, it is.”

He is survived by his daughter, Josie Jarbeck of Erie; his son, William Jarbeck, III; wife, Lori (DeSalve); two grandchildren, Chloe Jarbeck and Taylor Jarbeck; his dear friend Thelma Freedline; and many foster children. He is also survived by his siblings: Frank James Jarbeck (Gloria Pulford), Barbara (Bill) Reis, Patricia (Richard) Brubaker, Robert Jarbeck, Christine Braughler, Rebecca (Roy) Ramirez (Roy), Beatrice (Kenny) Jarbeck-Burk, Bonnie Jarbeck Kline, Jeffrey (Tracy) Jarbeck, Marlene (Troy) Sherwin, and Julie (Don) Jarbeck-Walko, and many nieces and nephews.

Bill was a dog lover and he will be sorely missed by his pups, Shadow and Buddy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William J. Jarbeck, Sr., and Laura Jean Fonner Jarbeck; his wife, Patricia Sweeney Jarbeck; his sister, Wilma Jean Jarbeck; and three brothers, Richard, Douglas and Dennis.

McCabe Funeral Home, Inc. (www.mccabewaldronfh.com) u Frederick C. “Fred” Pennington of Rossiter March 11, 1949 - May 6, 2023 Fred was a 1967 graduate of the Punxsutawney Area High School. On November 29, 1969, he married the love of his life, Arlene Elizabeth Miller. They were happily married for 53 years.

He worked as a mechanic for IA Construction and retired from STA Bus Company. Fred was an avid hunter, gun collector, gunsmith, and classic car enthusiast. He was a lifetime member of the Rossiter Volunteer Fire Company and the NRA. He was also a member of the PA Gun Collectors Association and the Classic Car Club of America.

He is survived by his wife, Arlene E. Pennington; a son, Donnie Pennington; three daughters, Shawna (Stephen) Sterling, Shelly Pennington, and Jenna (Jason) Arnold; nine grandchildren, Bradley Arnold, Joey (Shacha) Carney, Dani Carney, Ali Carney, Andy Carney, Blaze (Josie) Sterling, Angellica (Alexa) Sterling, Zach Aston, and Sydney Aston; eight Continued on next page

McCabe

Waldron

114 Maple Ave. , Punxsutawney

831 Market Street, Mahaffey

FUNERAL HOME INC.

814-938-0400 Andrew R. Philliber Supervisor, Owner, Funeral Director

FUNERAL HOME 814-277-9911 Andrew R. Philliber

Owner, Funeral Director Lisa J. Waldron, Supervisor

Providing Families the Best Care at Their Worst Time 22 – Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272

Continued from previous page great-grandchildren; a son-in-law, Ed Carney; a brother, Ed (Peggy) Pennington; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Henrietta (Stamler) Pennington; a daughter, Brandi Carney; and a brother, Dennis Pennington.

McCabe Funeral Home, Inc. (www.mccabewaldronfh.com) u Richard Louis Vizza of Punxsutawney May 14, 1956 - May 9, 2023 Rick was a member of Saints Cosmas and Damian Catholic Church, where he served as an usher. He was an active member of the Walston Club where he served as past president and was currently on the board of directors.

Rick worked for his father at Vizza’s Comet Supermarket. He then became a vendor for Nickles Bakery. Rick retired as an independent operator with Stroehmann Bakeries. He was active in his community, especially the Walston Club, where he would help in fundraising, organizing benefit dinners and golf outings. He was always willing to talk and make new friends whenever he could. A friend to Rick was a friend for life. He was an avid golfer and played whenever he could. He also enjoyed throwing darts, traveling, and experiencing new sights, even going to a few concerts.

First and foremost, Rick loved his family. He loved spending time visiting and hanging out around the fire pit and checking in to just say hello.

He is survived by his fiancée, Amy Hauserman; two daughters, Kassidy (Lee) R. Leitch and Krystal (Joel) R. Vrobel; his sister, Patti (Bill) Uzzo; two nephews, Joel Uzzo and fiancée, Leslie, and Ryan (Danielle) Uzzo.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis J. and Mary Louise (Petkash) Vizza.

McCabe Funeral Home, Inc. (www.mccabewaldronfh.com) u Frederick “Dale” Aimino of Punxsutawney January 20, 1938 - May 9, 2023 Dale had a strong faith that he shared with anyone that would listen. He was also sure to tell everyone to “keep the faith” and “keep looking up.” After joining the Marine Corps, he participated in the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon, which is a 24-man rifle platoon that performs a unique precision drill exhibition.

Dale also was part of the Marine Corps wrestling team that earned him the opportunity to try out for the US Olympic Wrestling Team.

After his honorable discharge from the Marines, he worked for Youngstown Sheet and Tube. He then started selling produce from a small stand. Shortly after, he started Aimino’s Market in 1963. After Aimino’s Market closed in 1987, Dale began selling produce at local auctions. He also started transporting the Amish. Not just locally, but he traveled to Canada, Mexico, and all over the US. This was something that he and his wife greatly enjoyed.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Mary Lou Aimino; four children, Joseph D. (Cyndi) Aimino, Michael T. (Lori) Aimino, Barbara Aimino and David Galka, and Beth Anne (Michael) McKendree; 12 grandchildren, Joshua (Kaila) Aimino, Rick Aimino, Amy Aimino and Zachary Jobe, Sandra (Brandon) Cunkleman, Aislinn Aimino, Domenic Aimino, Madeline Aimino, Grace Aimino, Isabella Aimino, Raphel Aimino, Zachary McKendree and Breanna McKendree; a great-grandson, James Hunter Cunkleman; and his siblings, Dominick Aimino, Betty Erickson, Mary Buterbaugh, and Earl Aimino; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dominick and Helen (Bish) Aimino.

McCabe Funeral Home, Inc. (www.mccabewaldronfh.com) u Dorlies Burroughs of Punxsutawney August 3, 1931 - May 11, 2023 Dorlies had a long career with Raytheon Corporation in Connecticut and later in New Hampshire. She moved to Punxsutawney in 1978 to be close to her family and worked for Rockville, then Equimeter and Invensys. After her retirement she worked for her son-in-law, Dr. Cherian, in his office and was lovingly referred to as “Mrs. B.” by the patients. She enjoyed working until she was 88 years old.

She enjoyed shopping for deals at the mall, baking zucchini bread, taking cruises to faraway places, and hitting the slot machines, but most of all she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughter, Lorraine Cherian, and husband Dr. George Cherian; two granddaughters, Michelle Cherian and husband, Andres Sandell, Jessica Cherian; two grandsons, Dr. Michael Cherian and wife, Brooke Doney-Cherian, and Dr. Jeffery Cherian and Heather Chapman-Cherian; three great-grandchildren, Alexander George Cherian, Samantha Diane Cherian, and Letti Dorlies Cherian.

In addition to her husband, Edward Burroughs, she was preceded in death by her parents, Rudolph and Wilhelmina Klever.

McCabe Funeral Home, Inc. (www.mccabewaldronfh.com) u

Martha Jean “Marcy” Gearhart of Fruitland Park, Florida formerly of Punxsutawney December 30, 1940 - May 14, 2023 Marcy was active in the Jefferson County Republican Party. She was a caregiver for over 30 years, caring for people around the area. She enjoyed driving her golf cart and visiting her neighbors in Florida, attending flea markets and yard sales, and playing bingo.

She is survived by four sons, Jerry H. (Olga) Pearce, Carl E. (Mary) Ackerson, Patrick J. Ackerson, and Michael S. (Betsy) Ackerson; eight grandchildren; and numerous greatgrandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Lavera (Pierce) Pearce; her husband, Clyde “Skeets” Gearhart, and two brothers, John Pearce and Peter Pearce.

McCabe Funeral Home, Inc. (www.mccabewaldronfh.com) u Phyllis B. Bair of Punxsutawney April 2, 1929 - May 14, 2023 Phyllis was a member of Grace United Methodist Church of Punxsutawney.

She enjoyed spending time with her family, crocheting, knitting, doing jigsaw puzzles, and quilting.

She is survived by a son, Terry (Kaye) Bair; son-in-law, Larry Chenoga; three grandchildren, Michele Limerick, Kelly Emerson, and Lisa Wiley; five greatgrandchildren, Audrey, Max, William, Lillian and Henry; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, William G. Bair, and parents, Sarah (Shaffer) and Harry Brocious, she was preceded in death by three children, Pamela Chenoga, Gerald Bair, and Kerry Bair, and seven siblings, Marie, Bernice, Audrey, Richard, Emerson, Delbert, and Howard.

Deeley Funeral Home, Inc. (www.deeleyfuneralhome.com) u Please visit the websites of the funeral homes listed to view the complete obituary, sign their guestbooks, plant a tree, and offer your condolences. u If you have a loved one who has passed away and would like to publish the obituary in Punxsutawney Hometown magazine, please contact us at hometown@punxsutawneymagazine.com or call (814) 952-3668. uuu

Walston Festival Set for June 10-11

M

ark your calendar! Walston in Young Township is the place to be on Saturday, June 10, and Sunday, June 11. More specifically, the Walston ballfield and the lawn area of St. Anthony’s Church are the places to be as the locations of the Walston Festival, which, among other things, will feature the event’s ninth annual softball tournament.

The Festival will open at 11 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

The softball tournament will begin at 8 a.m. and end at dusk on both days. But softball won’t be the only game in town!

Inflatables will be available to the kids on the St. Anthony’s lawn from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, and a cornhole tournament will be held on Sunday, beginning at noon. Registration for the cornhole tournament starts at 11:30 a.m.

Sunday. The A Bracket fee is $30 a team and B Bracket is $20 a team.

The Festival will also have food vendors and fun for the whole family. In addition, T-shirts will be on sale.

Special visitors will be in attendance – very special visitors! Members of the Pennsylvania National Guard, who will attend both days of the Festival, will have a military simulator in the pavilion area.

Stop by to say hello and to thank them for their service!

Everyone loves fireworks! The Festival will feature a fireworks display in the playground area at dusk on Saturday.

The Walston Festival is hosted by the Walston Recreation Committee and the Young Township Recreation Board.

Festival organizers are looking for volunteers for a variety of activities throughout the weekend. If you are interested in helping out or if you would like additional information, please call Cubby Martino (814-952-6144) or Matt Lasher (814-771-2599).

All proceeds from the Walston Festival will be used to purchase ballfield and playground equipment for Young Township playgrounds.

•••

"Serving the community we live in."

33 Hillcrest Dr., Punxsutawney

(814) 938-5400

Alex J. Park Owner, Funeral Director Supervisor William C. Deeley Funeral Director Douglas A. Deeley Funeral Director

Jacob T. d’Argy dargyfh.com 117 N. Jefferson St., Punxsutawney

814-938-8200

OWNER / FUNERAL DIRECTOR

Kelsey E. Makin SUPERVISOR / FUNERAL DIRECTOR

Call to make an appointment to prearrange, meet staff members, tour any of our facilies or for any other questions.

Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272 – 23

Hometown Community Happenings

F

Thursday, June 15 10:30 a.m. Summer Tunes with DJ Randy

Picnic at 12 Noon

Thursday, June 29 MAHONING HILLS ICE CREAM SHOPPE Sundaes Only $1.50!

BREAKFAST Mondays from 9:30 - 11 am June 5: Scrambled Eggs & Sausage June 12:Pancakes & Sausage June 19: Father's Day Breakfast: Apple Cinnamon French Toast & Bacon June 26:Blueberry Pancakes & Sausage

SENIOR FARMERS' MARKET VOUCHERS

Wednesday, June 7 from 10 am - 12 pm

FITNESS CLASS

Wednesdays at 11 am with Fitness Instructor Carole Zicha

DIME BINGO

Thurs., June 8, 22 & 29 at 12:30 pm

BINGOCIZE

Tuesdays, June 6 and 13 at 10 am Thursdays, June 1 & 8 at 10 am

BINGO with Kim from Embassy Thursday, June 1 at 12:30 pm

CRAFTS

PA MEDI COUNSELOR

SCAMS by Indiana Co. District Attorney Manzi

BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING

Tues., June 13th at 11 am

Thursday, June 22 at 11 am

BANK SAFETY by Marion Center Nat’l Bank

SUPER BINGO & SNACKS $2.50

GOSPEL MUSIC

SUMMER FOOD SAFETY

CHAIR YOGA with JERIL

HYMN SING with Kay Young

SEWING with Marlene - Mon., June 5 at 11 am CRAFTS - Mon., June 12 at 11 am

Mon., June 19 at 11 am

Tuesday, June 20 at 12:30 pm by Grange Church of God Thursday, June 22 at 10:30 am

Thursday, June 8 at 11:30 am

Tuesday, June 27 from 10 am - 12 pm

by Morgan from PAH Wednesday, June 28 at 12:30 pm Thursday, June 29 at 11 am

rom the staff of Hometown magazine and the Community Calendar at Punxsutawney.com, here is a list of events coming up in our area: n ‘Pirates Giveaway’ Winner Announced: When the Baltimore Orioles shut out the Pittsburgh Pirates 2-0 on Saturday, May 13 – at Oriole Park at Camden Yards – Peggy Engle of Punxsutawney became a winner in Hometown magazine’s “Pirates Giveaway” contest. Peggy predicted that the Birds would beat the Bucs and that the teams would score a total of three runs. Her combination of predictions made hers the winning entry. Peggy plans to redeem her merchandise certificate at Shop ’n Save. Congratulations, Peggy! n Registration may still be open for the Summer Reading Program at Punx’y Memorial Library. Call the library at 938-5020 or stop by the library for more information. n Register by June 2 for Crosstown UM Ministries “Stellar: Shine Jesus’ Light” VBS program June 12-16, 9 a.m. to noon, at Grace UM Church.

Register at 938-4030 or online at punxsycrosstown.org. If you register late, a T-shirt is not guaranteed. For ages preschool through sixth grade. n Farmer’s Market voucher applications are available at Older American Social Centers, through the Jefferson County Area Agency on Aging. n The Presbyterian Church of Punx’y is holding Mahjong Mondays, from 10 a.m. to noon. n Free summer meals at the PAHS cafeteria will start June 5. Free meals will be available 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., for children age 18 & under. There will be grab-n-go meals available at several locations. Go to the school district website and find complete information under the Services tab. n May 27-28: Living History Weekend at Cook Forest State Park. n May 27: Hawthorn Vol. Fire Dept. 6th Annual Kayak/Canoe Poker Run, launch 9 a.m. to noon Redbank Creek, Summerville to Hawthorn.

Adults, $20; under 18, $5. Find more information and registration at www.hawthorn560.com. n May 27 & 31: Book donations accepted from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Punx’y Memorial Library.

Limit 2 boxes or bags per person. n May 28: George C. Brown Community Pool opening day (planned). n May 28: Fish for Free Day in PA, no license required by the PA Fish Commission. n May 28-June 3: Groundhog Festival at Yoder’s Antique Mall. Lots of fun & entertainment! n May 29: Punx’y Memorial Library closed. n May 29: Memorial Day. Remember the veterans who gave their lives in service to the nation. n May 28: Guest Speaker Chris Brooks at The Salvation Army, 11 a.m. n May 30: Book Sale Room open, just give a donation, at Punx’y Memorial Library. n Through May 31: Registration open for VBS at One Life Church, June 19-21, 6 to 8 p.m., for ages 3 to fifth grade. Register at onelifepunxsy.org/one-life-kids. n June 1: Military Share food program, 3 p.m., at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds, sponsored by Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest PA. For information, call Second Harvest at (814) 4593663, ext. 117. Must meet income requirements and have at least one person who has served or is serving in the Armed Forces or National Guard.

n June 1-15: Register for VBS at One Life Church, June 19-21, 6 to 8 p.m., for age 3-5th grade.

Register at onelifepunxsy.org/one-life-kids. n June 2 & 3: Grange’s Helping Hands free clothing. Friday, noon to 4 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Grange Church of God. n June 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30: Paws for Reading, 3:45 p.m., at Punx’y Memorial Library. All ages welcome. n June 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30: Farmer’s Market, 4 to 7 p.m., at Barclay Square. Contact the Chamber of Commerce for more information. n June 3 & 4: Hazen Flea Market open, 7 a.m. to mid-afternoon. n June 3: 5th Annual CEF Golf Scramble at Beechwoods Golf Course, registration at 8 a.m., benefits Child Evangelism Fellowship – Jefferson, Elk & Clearfield Chapter. See the CEF Facebook page for registration costs. n June 3: 8th Annual Military Collectibles Show, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Jefferson County Fairgrounds. Presented by Jefferson County History Center. n June 3: Spring Chicken BBQ & Mommy Market at the Ringgold Area Vol. Fire Company. n June 3: Chicken BBQ, 4 p.m., at Rossiter Vol. Fire Co. n June 3: Spaghetti Dinner & Basket Raffle, benefits Jason Frampton, at the Perry Township Vol. Fire Co. hall in Valier. n June 4: Children’s Fishing Derby, 1-3 p.m., at Cook Forest. n June 5, 12, 19, & 26: Adult Coloring Club, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., at Punx’y Memorial Library.

Bring your own supplies or borrow some from the library. n June 6 & 27: Book Sale room books are free at the Punx’y Memorial Library.

June 7 & 21: Bingo at Big Run Event Center, benefits the Big Run Area Vol. Fire Co. Doors open at 4 p.m., early bird games start at 6 p.m., and regular games at 6:30 p.m. Food & beverages available. n June 8: Catastrophic Book Club, 5:30 p.m., at Punx’y Memorial Library, “A Spark of Light” by Jodi Picoult. n June 9-11: 2023 Forest County Bigfoot Festival, Marienville. n June 10 & 11: French & Indian War Encampment & Battle Re-enactments at Cook Forest State Park. n June 10: Hunter-Trapper Education Course, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Heritage House, Brookville.

Visit the PA Game Commission website for registration information. n June 10: Bundles of Blessings Free Clothing Ministry, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the parsonage next to Solid Rock Community Church, 102 Church St., Big Run. Donations accepted by pre-arrangement only. n June 10: Big Run B.R.A.N.C.H.H. food distribution, 11 a.m. to noon, at First Christian Church of Big Run. n June 10 & 11: Walston Festival, includes softball tournament, kids’ games, fireworks on Saturday night, cornhole tournament, food vendors, and fun for the whole family, hosted by the Young Township Recreation Board. n June 10 & 11: Summer Solstice Weekend, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Punx’y Weather Discovery Cen-

Punxsutawney Area Historical & Genealogical Society, Inc. Native American & Early Settler Exhibit, Groundhog Museum,Tibby Library, Winslow Genealogical Suite,Tibby Library and Gift Shop at Lattimer House HOURS: Thurs., Fri. & Sat 10-4 • Sun. Noon-4 *Advance appointments are required for Genealogy Research*

On-Line services available for Gift Shop & Genealogy FIND US AT: www.punxsyhistory.org EMAIL: punxsyhistory@outlook.com

24 – Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272

- Continued on next page

400 W. Mahoning St., Punx’y

814-938-2555

Hometown Community Continued from previous page

ter. There is an admission charge. n June 10, 14, 24, & 28: Book donations accepted at Punx’y Memorial Library, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Limit 2 boxes or bags per person. n June 10: Food sale, 6 p.m., at Rossiter American Legion. Doors open at 5 p.m. Fundraiser for American Legion Post 62, Punx’y. n June 10: Strawberry Saturday, various locations in Smicksburg. n June 10-17: Laurel Festival in Brookville. Fun and food for the whole family! n June 11: All You Can Eat Breakfast, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., Perry Township Vol. Fire Co. Adults, $10; kids, $5; under 5, free. n June 12-17: All Together Now Summer Reading Family Scavenger Hunt by Punx’y Memorial Library. Get the form from the library this week, find the “community helpers” in local business windows, and return the form to the library by 5 p.m. June 17. n June 14: Flag Day. Fly the colors! n June 14: Relay for Life at Brookville Town Square, benefits the American Cancer Society. n June 15, 16 & 17: Coolspring Power Museum Expo & Flea Market. Museum open on Wednesday & closed on Sunday. n June 15: Community Classic Golf Tournament at Punx’y Country Club, benefits the Weather Discovery Center, Make A Wish Foundation, Punx’y Chamber of Commerce and Punx’y Area Community Center. Contact the chamber for registration or sponsorship information. n June 17: Sign-Ups for AJP Youth Football & Cheerleading Assoc., 10 a.m. to noon at the Punx’y Area Community Center. n June 17: 7th Annual Western PA Charity Sporting Clay Shoot at All Seasons Trap & Skeet, Luthersburg, benefits Freedom Hunters, hosted by Shoot for a Cure. Registration, 8 a.m.; shotgun start, 10 a.m. Lunch & raffle to follow. n June 17: Benefit Dance/Raffle for Jeremiah Hoffman, 7 to 11 p.m., at Walston Club. Admission, $7. n June 18: Father’s Day. Remember your father with something special from one of Hometown’s advertisers. n June 18: All You Can Eat Breakfast, 7 a.m.to noon, McCalmont Township Fire Co. hall in Anita.

Adults, $10; kids 5-12, $5; kids 4 & under, free. n June 18-24: Sykesville Youth & Ag Fair, Sykesville fairgrounds. n June 19-21: VBS at One Life Church, 6 to 8 p.m., for ages 3-5th grade. Go to onelifepunxsy.org/one-life-kids for more information. n June 20: Blood Drive, noon to 6 p.m., at Punx’y VFW. Benefits American Red Cross. n June 21: First Day of Summer! n June 21: Drive-Through Community Dinner, 4:30 p.m., at Punx’y Presbyterian Church.

Enter the alley off East Mahoning St. beside the hotel and drive toward Union St. Meals will be handed to the driver. The meal will include an entrée to heat at home and a dessert. n June 24: Hunter-Trapper Education Course, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Rossiter Sportsmen’s Club. See the PA Game Commission website for registration information. n June 24: Mind, Body & Soul Metaphysical Expo of Punx’y, 11 a.m., at Jefferson County Housing Authority Social Hall. n June 24 & 25: SS. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Church Festival at Adrian Picnic Grove, includes liturgy, food, games, and music. n June 25: 2nd Annual Jake McMinn Memorial Benefit Ride at F.O. Eagles, Falls Creek. Registration, 10 a.m.; ride at noon. $20 per driver; 70 to 80-mile ride, benefits his daughter. n June 30 & July 1: Punx’y Theatre Arts Guild presents “Drinking Habits,” 7:30 p.m., at Punx’y Area Elementary School. The show will also be presented at 8 p.m. July 6, 7, & 8 at the Sawmill Theater in Cook Forest. n June 30: Last day to order tiles for the Punx’y Historical & Genealogical Society Coal Memorial event on Sept. 3. Forms are available at 400 W. Mahoning St., or call 938-2555, or email punxsyhistory@outlook.com. n July 2: 10th Annual Alumni Band Concert, 2

p.m., in the air-conditioned Colonna Auditorium at PAHS. n July 2-9: Punx’y Festival in the Park, Barclay Square. Fun, food, and entertainment for the whole family! n Punx’y Citizens Band rehearsals are held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at First English Lutheran Church. For more information, go to https://punxsypa.com/band. The group of concert band musicians invites new members of all playing levels to join them. n Register now for Solid Rock Community Church’s Happy Campers VBS on July 19, 20, & 21, 6:30 to 8 p.m., for ages kindergarten through fifth grade. Call 814-603-2573 for registration information. n *If your church will celebrate a milestone anniversary, such as the 50th anniversary of its founding, please let Hometown know about it. Such longevity should be recognized with a story! Email Hometown@punxsutawneymagazine.com.

Scheduled events may change. Hometown magazine is not responsible for changes or cancellations.

•••

Punxsutawney AM Radio Continued from page 10 to a listening audience.

Shortly after Mr. Erhard arrived in Punxsutawney in 1953 to begin the history of WPME radio, the new president of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, Sam Light, invited Erhard to join the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club. As the Groundhog Club and the Punxsutawney tradition on Groundhog Day was facing its own challenges with the arrival of TV for entertainment and communication, Mr. Light named Charles Erhard “the director of groundhogese communication.” A few years later, Erhard became president of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club in September 1976. In a February 2, 1977, news story in the Punxsutawney Spirit, following Erhard’s first Groundhog Day at Gobbler’s Knob, it was reported that through WPME the word about the Punxsutawney groundhog’s prognos-

e c n e i er ury p x E Lux ! the Deserve You

tication was fed to 284 independent radio stations, four major radio networks, and the three major television networks.

After nearly 30 years in Punxsutawney and years of broadcasting with his “radio voice,” the “Erhard era” ended with the announcement in January 1981 of the sale of radio stations WPME-AM and FM. The assets owned by the Erhards were transferred to a radio corporation that owned many local radio stations. To follow will be new owners, new call letters, and different station numbers. WPME became history in Punxsutawney, held in memory by many older residents who have known the Erhards and the radio programs of over 50 years ago.

A final chapter in Hometown will conclude the local radio experience with WECZ-AM and WPXZ-FM and more with “brand identity” of music to specialized and targeted audiences, XM radio, internet and “streaming.”

•••

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The First English Lutheran Church, located at the corner of Pine and Gilpin streets in Punxsutawney. The cornerstone was laid on June 1, 1893, and the church was dedicated in 1895. This building served the congregation for 110 years before it was consumed by fire. (photo courtesy of S.J. Sharp)

The congregation of the rebuilt English Lutheran Church building at the corner of Pine and Gilpin streets is giving thanks for the aid of the Punxsutawney area fire companies for their assistance in helping to save many of the church’s historical items. The new building was dedicated in 2005. (photo courtesy of S.J. Sharp)

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26 – Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272

he congregation of the First English Lutheran Church is raising funds to establish a Firefighters Fund with the Punxsutawney Area Community Foundation, Inc. On May 20, the congregation held a pancake breakfast to begin raising funds.

The fund will benefit Punxsutawney area volunteer fire departments. The fund is in appreciation of the heroic response to the fire that destroyed the original English Lutheran Church building on May 25, 2003.

That morning the congregation of the First English Lutheran Church, in downtown Punxsutawney, was in the fellowship hall in the church’s basement, sitting down to a pancake breakfast in honor of that year’s graduates.

Suddenly Dick Brown rushed into the church basement and yelled, “This church is on fire, and everybody needs to get out – now!” The fire had begun in the ceiling above the organ.

The rest of the day was a blur of activity and a roller coaster of emotions. The congregation watched as fire destroyed the century-old building.

By evening, only the walls and the adjacent Parish House were still standing.

Members of the congregation worked to gather what could be salvaged and moved it to safe storage, as they wondered about their future.

By the end of that day, staff from Paris Cleaners had made arrangements for the church to immediately transport all church linens, paraments, and vestments to their DuBois headquarters for cleaning and restoration. The owner of an adjacent property opened a vacant apartment to the congregation, which became its home for the next few months.

Furniture, documents, equipment, and church records dating back over 100 years were moved into this new office space.

Musical instruments, including the church’s famous hand-bells were saved. These bells had been played throughout the area for more than three decades and had been taken to Europe, on a choir tour, just two years before. The bells were repaired and rang out again in 2004 when they were used to make a CD entitled “The Bells Still Ring,” which

was sold to help fund the reconstruction of the church. Regrettably, the church’s 80-year-old pipe organ was a total loss.

Candlesticks, brassware, and the chancel furniture, including the pulpit, altar, and baptismal font, were all saved.

Much of the credit for the congregation’s property being saved goes to the brave men and women of the area fire companies who fought the blaze and kept it from spreading into the Parish House and other adjacent structures. Two years later, these men and women and their families were honored guests at the dedication of the new church building.

The congregation has always been grateful for the men and women who serve the Punxsutawney area.

They leave warm beds in the middle of the night, jump into a vehicle to run to, not away from, danger, and risk and sometimes even sacrifice their own lives for the sake and safety of others. First English vice-president Bob McNeil, whose wife Ruth chaired the Building Committee, recalls that three firemen were injured fighting the fire that day. “It just seemed appropriate,” said McNeil, referring to honoring their service through a fund.

Now, 20 years later, the congregation has rebuilt the First English Lutheran Church. Congregants have also survived the effects of COVID-19 and changes in the community. However, the kindness and support of the community for the endeavors of the people of First English Lutheran Church have sustained the congregation through the years.

The congregation is saying “thank you” to the firefighters.

“We wanted to let the community know that 20 years later we are still here, and we are grateful for those who, as Jesus commanded, serve their neighbors,” said retired pastor Tim Spence. The congregation plans to hold a series of events over the next two years, walking once again from fire to rebuilding to dedication and renewal.

As the Firefighters Fund grows, it will continue to honor Punxsutawney area firefighters by assisting local fire companies to acquire equipment, training, and property.

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(“From Our Past,” researched by S. Thomas Curry, features items of interest from past editions of Punxsutawney and area newspapers.)

May 21, 1902 — The carpenters are now at work constructing the Eberhart block. This is the first building erected in town to use heavy iron girders and pillars in the construction. A building of this size, however, calls for extraordinary heavy timbers. (Punxsutawney News) Note: The building at the corner of South Findley and West Mahoning streets is remembered as Murphy’s 5 & 10 store. Since September 2009, it has been the Fairman Centre of IUP’s Culinary School in Punxsutawney.

May 21, 1922 — Drawings for positions in the Farmers’ Curb Market, to be established along the plaza on the first Wednesday in June, will be held in the Community House, May 23. The plan is to lay the plaza out in 8-foot squares, marked clearly in white and numbered from 1 to 40. Farmers are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to sell at the Curb Market this season. (Punxsutawney Spirit) Note: The “plaza” was then an open space across from Barclay Square between North Jefferson and North Penn streets.

June 2, 1870 — CIRCUS – With reference to our advertising column, and the gorgeous bills posted through town, Dr. Thayer’s New Circus will exhibit at this place on the 15th of June. Dr. Thayers is one of the most popular showmen in the country, and his new circus is spoken of by newspapers from whence it has already exhibited as “the first circus of the season” and “the best show traveling.” (Punxsutawney Plaindealer) June 7, 1899 — The big new lathe recently placed in the Star Iron Works at Clayville by G.W. Porter, the proprietor, is now in working order and has proved to be one of the finest machines of the kind in this section of the state. There is nothing outside of the largest shops in the city that will equal its capacity.

The Star Iron Works is now equipped to do all classes of work the industrial plants require.

(Punxsutawney Spirit) Note: An old brick building of the Star Iron Works is located in Punxsutawney’s West End on West Mahoning Street, parallel to Saw Mill Run and opposite Rumors Bar. June 14, 1899 — The new St. Anthony’s church at Walston will be dedicated on Sunday, June 18, at 10:30 o’clock, a.m. An excursion will be run from Reynoldsville, leaving there at 8:30 a.m., DuBois at 9:05, Big Run, 9:40, Punxsutawney at 10 o’clock, arriving in Walston at 10:10. (Punxsutawney News) June 18, 1907 — The Punxsutawney Country Club has started the construction of the club house for which plans were made in the winter. The new home for the members is being put right beside the spring. The tennis courts will be A. No. 1. With the pastime called golf, the Country Club is the place to retain your health, or regain your health if you have lost it. (Punxsutawney Spirit) •••

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3. Enter one of the participating advertisers on this page in the space provided to redeem your coupon should you be the contest winner.

4. Clip and forward the coupon to: ‘Pirates Giveaway,’ c/o Hometown magazine, 129 Aspen Road, Punxsutawney, PA 15767. PLEASE MARK YOUR TEAM PICK & TOTAL POINTS ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE ENVELOPE. 5. All entries must be received by 4 p.m. Thursday, June 8.

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nce cou elor or fo ion. your guidanc ounsel for more re in informatio Visit IUP.edu/dual or yo 28 – Punxsutawney Hometown – June 2023 - Issue #272