Watsons Recognized By Society
October 24, 2005 at 9:16 PM
Jerry and Ed Watson
The DuBois Area Historical Society recognized Ed and Jerry Watson of DuBois as its persons of the year. Society President Evo Facchine announced the awards at the organization’s 24th Annual Dinner at the Brady Township Community Center, Luthersburg. Facchine stated that the award recognizes service to the DuBois Area Historical Society; the service may be exceptional for one year or may be ongoing over an extended period of time.
Both Wastons have provided and continue to provide volunteer service to the Society for nearly 10 years.
Jerry Watson volunteers time helping with secretarial duties for the Society. This includes general typing, preparing labels for mailings, typing thank you letters, and other duties.
Ed Watson served on the Society’s executive board for a number of years as a co-director for building and grounds. He no longer holds the position, but continues to provide many services in helping with work pertaining to building maintenance. Among many projects he has initiated or assisted with are: cutting doorways between the Society’s three buildings so the buildings could become one facility, helping with the wiring and construction of the new gallery area in the museum, and general maintenance projects as needed.
The awards have been made annually since 1993-94. Previous recipients are: Todd Thompson, 1993-94; E.D. Reitz, 1994-95; Gail King and Marv Bloom, 1995-96; Diane Bernardo, 1996-97; Tom and Virginia Schott, 1997-98; Nellie Beer and Dr. George Nye, 1998-99; Audrey Lott, 1999-00; Carol Johnson and Beecher Klingensmith, 2000-01; Judy Leech and Dave Beer 2001-02; and Barb Emmer and Ken Wiser, 2002-03.
Historical Society President Evo Facchine reported the following achievements by the Society during 2005:
•The publication of “Around DuBois,” the latest of the Postcard History Series of Arcadia Publishing. The book is available for purchase at the DuBois Area Historical Society, Shenkle’s Pharmacy, Kohlhepp’s Tru Value, Peaceable Kingdom, Rosie’s Book Store, Hockman Candy, Walden Books, and the Penn State Book Store.
•Work has been completed on a revision of the Society’s constitution and by-laws.
•The continuation of the Looking Back column in “The Courier-Express.”
Forty-three members and guests attended the dinner where Gary Gilmore of Luthersburg was the guest speaker. Gilmore presented a power point presentation and spoke about his experiences with the Clearfield County Bicentennial Raft.
President Facchine was the master of ceremonies for the evening. The invocation was given by Rev. Pat Ramsey and the benediction by Rev. Chris Ramsey. Both are pastors for the DuBois Area Combined Lutheran Ministry.
Upcoming historical society speakers are: Nov. 10 – Dr. Mervin Strickler of Penfield, “Civil Air Patrol.” 2006: Feb. 18 – Joan Hockman, “History of Candy Making,” luncheon, site to be announced. March 14 – Dennis Bussell, representing Integrated World Arts Inc., “Dispelling Myths About Native Americans.” April 20 – Rev. Robert Henry, “Early American Pattern Glass,” to be held at the Falls Creek Presbyterian Church. May 24 – Galen Kilmer, “DuBois Area High School Local History Projects.”
Except where noted, all programs are free, at 7:30 p.m. in the E.D. Reitz Museum, 30 W. Long Ave., DuBois. There will be a charge for the meal at the February 18, 2006 luncheon.