Outstanding Citizen Award  

  For 13 years, the monthly award to an individual or organization in the Tyrone Area was 

awarded to a person or group that was having   “a significant impact on this place we call home.”

These folks, plus over a dozen volunteer "deliverers" were be busy taking Free 

Thanksgiving Dinners to those unable to come to their place.  Above, owner Lisa 

Baum holds the WTRN Award that was presented early Thanksgiving morning 2005, 

as the food was being prepared.  Her helpers include Kristal Richards and Kim 

Hildebrand in the front row, plus Dave Brower, John Sabol and Ken Baum in the

 back row.  Thanks to Lisa and her staff for brightening the lives of hundreds of 

Tyroners on what otherwise could have been a quiet and lonely day.

     

Radio Station WTRN Is pleased to present the OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

For June, 2004 to Pastor Chuck Fitzgerald

      The lawn at the Wesley United Methodist Church is well-tended, as are the grounds at the Parsonage.  Chuck Fitzgerald believes in focusing on all parts of his responsibility at Wesley, so he also mows the lawn. 

   But, for us to emphasize that as the real reason he’s being honored this month would be to miss the point.  Good pastors strive to be involved in every facet of their church, and, like a shepherd, to attend to every sheep in their flock. 

    Persons have told us they feel Chuck’s abilities in this are special, and this is one reason for this award. Another is because of his outgoing and radiant personality, which precedes him along a street or in a group. He is one of those special people who actually will listen to you as you are talking.

      Those suffering bereavement tell us he has been an immense comfort, and several times, he has had to preside at a funeral service at his church while he was in mourning for a  loss in his own family. 

     But, all is not “church related work” for Chuck.  He is the Tennis Coach for Tyrone Area High School, and his teams are very competitive in their season’s efforts.  He has been able to combine lessons in good sportsmanship with good citizenship.

   Chuck Fitzgerald is having a significant impact on this place we call home. 

 

Radio Station WTRN Is pleased to present the

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD For July, 2003, to

JOHN FERNER

    The stunning news of the closing of Westvaco’s Tyrone Mill 22 months ago 

became a challenge to John Ferner.  He had learned well the paper business

 from his father and from many decades in the field himself; he was the mill’s 

Personnel Manager at the time of its closing.

    John began the mission of trying to save the facility and as many jobs as possible. 

 He pulled together a team of persons skilled in various fields and plans started to 

take shape.  It was a slow and long process through which the Altoona Blair County

 Development Corporation was a great help.

    Cooperation was forthcoming from the company, and a fair price was agreed upon

for the facility. Elected officials at every level of government were effective in helping.

    Tax relief was obtained. A financial package was created by members of the group 

whose skill is in that sector. The team functioned superbly. Each intricate piece of the

 matrix was coming together.   Now the entire package is a reality and soon the Mill 

Whistle will blow again.  And no one will be happier to hear that sound than the quiet 

man who worked day and night pulling it all together.

    Without question, John Ferner has had a significant impact on this place we call home.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Radio Station WTRN Is pleased to present the OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

For June, 2003, to ROB ORR

    A dozen years ago, among the first to receive this award was Morris Levine, 

the manager of the shoe store that still bears his name. It is appropriate that Rob Orr

, the current manager, is honored this month.

   Rob accepted the leadership of a small group of business owners and managers 

in Downtown Tyrone who wanted to revitalize the area and to bring back the days when 

it was a busy shopping center.  The streetscape made the scene along Pennsylvania 

Avenue and Tenth Street into a much more inviting area; all that was needed was more 

shoppers.

   Quickly, Rob organized the Tyrone Merchants Association and began planning a

 series of events, culminated by the recent Sidewalk Sale, which attracted booths, 

hoppers and entertainment in spite of the disappointing weather. Each month, 

dditional stores are opening in the downtown area; much of this must be because 

they see the activity of Rob and his committee. His Great-Grandmother, 

”Mick” Warrender, who worked in the shoe store, would be very proud of him.      

   And none are more proud of him than Morris and store owner Todd Lewis.  

He is having a significant impact on this place we call home.

Radio Station WTRN Is pleased to present the

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

For April, 2003, to GEORGE PALMER

George Palmer is a Missionary; not in a far-off desert or jungle, but right here at home.

He saw that fewer families were attending church, robbing their children of an opportunity

 to learn right and wrong and a moral life. Instead, he saw kids hanging around on the street, 

and heard shocking words from their mouths.

George established Front-Line Ministries and The Door in Bellwood, and has built a 

small staff of dedicated folks who provide a safe and enjoyable place for the young 

people of the Bellwood-Antis area to come after school and at other idle times; to 

reach them, teach them and help them to learn about Almighty God, about goodness,

and mercy and right living. George Palmer is having a significant impact on this place

 we call home.

 

 

Radio Station WTRN Is pleased to present the

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

For March, 2003, to Members of PA Army National Guard

Det. 1 HC 2nd Bn 112th Infantry Mechanized

In normal times, they are "Weekend Warriors", but these are not normal times, 

and the Call to Active Duty went out to members of the unit here in Tyrone.

These GI’s will serve our country in a land far away from family, friends, and familiar 

surroundings. Their work is essential to world peace and survival.

The pride and support and love of our community go out to these hometown soldiers.

And, by their commitment in a land so far away, they are all having a significant impact 

on this place we call home.

 

On Behalf of a Grateful Community,

This  DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Is Presented to  LEO WARNER

Thank You, Leo, for Forty-Six Years of Faithful Service to the People of Tyrone.

Your Radio-TV Business always provided good merchandise and friendly service at fair

 prices, as proved by the large number of steady repeat customers.

You treated each customer with kindness and courtesy. You will be missed in the 

business community.

Presented February 18, 2003, By Radio Station WTRN

 

 

Radio Station WTRN Is pleased to present the

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

For February, 2003, to COACH JIM SWANEY

As Coach Swaney completes fifteen years guiding the Girls Varsity Basketball 

program at Tyrone Area High School, he can look back, but he doesn’t. He looks

 to the future as he constantly tries to help younger kids to "be as good as they can be"

 and to develop their skills, and learning what it means to be part of a team. Not only 

has he guided many "legends" in his years as coach, but he also has helped girls with 

no special skills to become excellent players.

No coach can succeed without building respect and trust among the members of the team.

 And, Coach Swaney does this very easily, because he is absolutely straight-forward and

  truthful with them.

The old saying is "A Coach looks good when the Team looks good." Years from now, 

lots of adults will look back and say thanks to Jim. He is having a significant impact on this

 place we call home.

 

Radio Station WTRN Is pleased to present the

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

For January, 2003, to TYLER MERTIFF

When kids are growing up, they usually select a role model, and, good or bad, this choice often

 helps to determine their future. Countless young people look at Tyler Mertiff and say, "this is 

someone I admire."

Tyler is an exceptional athlete, and a natural leader, in games and in practice. In football, he is 

Tyrone’s All-Time Leading Passer, and is Single Season Passing record holder, which he did in 

11 games. In Boys Basketball, he’s the 6th All-Time Leading Scorer.

But there’s much more to being a role model than racking up records. Tyler has coached Elementary

 Basketball for five years, showing younger kids how to play life by the rules and how to win, as 

well as how to lose. And, perhaps most important of all, he is an honor student, learning while 

excelling in sports.

An effective role model for others, Tyler Mertiff is having a significant impact on this place we call home.

 

Radio Station WTRN Is pleased to present the OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

For November, 2002 to Beulah Irvin Little

Beulah is "The Apple Dumpling Lady" of the community. For countless years, she has used her God

-Given talents to bake pies, sticky buns, and apple dumplings, and then either to sell them for the benefit

 of the needy, or to give as unexpected "treats" to people, businesses or churches. She’s at the Park 

for every community event, and this fall, has raised over $300.00 for the Salvation Army from her 

"goodies".

Beulah says that when she gets lonely, bored, worried, or frustrated, she heads to the kitchen, bakes

 up a storm, and then gives everything away. She asks her daughter Helen to deliver the goodies, and 

asks nothing in return. She cares very much for others.

As you might expect, right now, she is busy ringing the bell for the Salvation Army Kettles, and 

helping the needy. Without question, Beulah is having a significant impact on this place we call home.

 

Radio Station WTRN  Is pleased to present the OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

For October, 2002 to Grace Baptist Church, Rev. Roy Garthwaite, Pastor and

Church of the Good Shepherd, Rev. Ray Brinson, Pastor

This month, we honor the congregations of two Tyrone Churches and their pastors for their decisive

 action in bringing Youth Activities Directors onto their staffs.

The statistics are shocking. Only about 15% of teenagers are attending church; religion simply is 

not a part of the lives of the other 85%.

This figure is much less than half of their parents’ generation, and their grandparents’ generation is

 five times more involved in a church.

Many churches in the area are trying to bring back the kids. Led by their Pastors, Grace Baptist 

Church and the Church of the Good Shepherd acted by hiring persons with this specific task. 

The whole community will benefit, because a young person who finds fulfillment and friends in a

 church won’t have to look in other places. It was the right thing to do.

By taking this first step, these churches will have a significant impact on this place we call home.

 

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

For September, 2002 to LAMOINE ZIMMERMAN

"Zimmie" doesn’t enjoy the spotlight. He goes about doing good deeds and good works in a quiet way.

 Of course, during the 50s, 60s, and 70s, he and his fellow members of the Gardner Guards Drum & 

Bugle Corps were often in the spotlight, on tv and in Presidential Inauguration Parades. He liked that.

But, mainly, he likes to stay in the background. At the Elks, he organizes visits of the Bloodmobile 

and helps with Youth Recognition Night. At the Community Labor Day Picnic, he helps with the 

Bingo Games. As an Usher at First English Lutheran Church, he greets regular members and 

visitors alike, and makes them feel welcome. As a School Crossing Guard, he makes sure kids are

 safe.

For many years, he was the one who made sure Gray Field was in good shape for each game.

 Our town owes him a lot. Lamoine Zimmerman is having a significant impact on this place we call home.

 

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

For August, 2002 to BOB MASER

Some people spend their days accumulating wealth; others waste their days doing nothing. 

Bob Maser devotes his days to helping others.

He is very active at the Tyrone Salvation Army, cooking and serving meals, helping with fund 

raising, making repairs and witnessing to others.

Bob is an active and working member of the Tyrone Kiwanis Club, organizing fund-raisers and 

then selling tickets to everyone in town. He has been involved for many years in local sports, 

helping with Teener Baseball, including last year when the state championships were played here.

 His service to the Tyrone YMCA is affectionately remembered by many in the community. Bob 

believes in living his faith, treating others fairly and saying "yes" when asked to help. He is an 

excellent role model for all.

Truly, Bob Maser is having a significant impact on this place we call home.

 

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD For July, 2002 to 

PASTOR BILL GLUNT and ARDEAN LATCHFORD

There are almost a thousand graves in local cemeteries of persons who died in the dreaded Flu 

Epidemic. The two persons we honor realized we have another epidemic in Tyrone right now, and

 its impact on our young people could be just as devastating as the one a century ago. They asked for

 God’s Help in stopping it, and were guided to ask the community to join them.

The first meeting attracted over 80 concerned citizens. The second drew even more. And, in 

subsequent meetings many others have now joined in fighting this epidemic, including local 

government and law enforcement authorities. The community is aroused.

It started with two people, and it is up to everyone to join in. If you will help, this effort can have a s

ignificant impact on this place we call home.

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD for May, 2002 to

RICHARD MERRYMAN

Over the years, some school teachers seem to emerge as exceptional, and they stand out

 in the minds of former students.

 One of these is Richard Merryman, an English Teacher at the Tyrone Area High School. 

So outstanding is his ability tomotivate and teach his students that many credit him with 

focusing  their future lives.

But, Richard is equally skilled in music. Neighbors recall when he would reach up to the 

keys of the piano and play songs long before he could read or write. At the keyboard of 

the piano and organ, he is an inspiration. For many years, he's been the organist at 

First Presbyterian Church, and is also choir director. The church's history room was 

his idea.

Richard frequently researches Tyrone's History for music from the past, such as our

 nation's 1976 Bicentennial Song which was composed by a Tyrone resident. 

He located a rare and damaged copy of this old song and had it restored for this 

Memorial Day season. 

Surely, Richard Merryman is having a significant impact on this place we call home.

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

for April,  2002 to JIM RAABE

   Jim Raabe has been the force behind the development of Tyrone's Soccer Program. 

  After two clinics showed that there was a lot of interest in Tyrone for soccer, a 

parents' meeting was held to determine how to proceed.

   Jim Raabe stepped up and volunteered to organize and run the program.  Since

 then, he has attended meetings, lined fields, run clinics, purchased equipment, set 

the rosters, built goals and handled all administrative details for the program.  

All this was done while emphasizing that it had to be fun for the players.  Last fall, 

there was a successful season with 50 players.  This spring, it has blossomed to 

150 soccer players, and Jim has handled it all in stride.  It's an exciting new

 recreation program for our young citizens, and it has an effective organizer in Jim.

   Truly, Jim Raabe is having a significant impact on this place we call home.

 

 OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

for March, 2002 to JOHN HARLOW

After a career in broadcasting and two tours of duty in the United States Army, 

John Harlow became Sports Editor of the Tyrone Daily Herald, He looked upon 

this as an opportunity to expand the coverage of athletics, both team and i

ndividual within the Tyrone and Bellwood areas.

But, there was a much greater purpose in his work; helping local student 

athletes to be recognized. Time and again, John's attention and focus have 

helped them to be named to District and State All-Star teams. A number of

 them are now benefiting from this help as they attend colleges on sports 

scholarships.

As a board member of the Tyrone YMCA, his organizational skills and energy

 were quickly recognized. During his term as President of the Board, the 

Executive Secretary position became vacant, and John wore two leadership 

hats until the position was filled. Now, he can spend more time doing volunteer

 coaching and recreation.

Surely John Harlow is having a significant impact on this place we call home.

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

for February, 2002 to Pastor Terryanne Talbot-Moses

When Pastor TM heard the terrible news of the terrorist attacks on September 

11, 2001, she felt the community needed to come together for a time to unite in

 prayer and meditation.

She organized a worship service that evening that was attended by many

 hundreds of local residents. Two days later, as the immensity of the tragedy 

was sinking in, she gathered the community for a candlelight service at the 

American Legion Home. And, five days later, she was at the heart of things

 when thousands of persons came together on the streets in front of the Post

 Office for a Sunday afternoon of inspiring and comforting time of patriotism 

and prayer. Working with her fellow clergy, she has arranged for memorial

 services on the 11th of each month at one of the churches in our area. As 

the current leader of Tyrone Area Cooperative Ministries, Pastor TM has

 performed an exceptional service for us all.        She is having a significant

 impact on this place we call home.

 

 Outstanding Citizen Award for January, 2002 to 

Jeff Long

Jeff Long grew up on a farm in Sinking Valley. There, he learned about planting seeds  a

nd harvesting a crop. He has done just this in Tyrone, becoming a major investor in properties

 that were like "unplowed fields," and turning them into important income-

producing, tax-paying assets for the town. Over and over, it has been Jeff who has come forward

 and developed a plan to use places like the former Adams School, which has become a large

 retirement living complex or the IGA, which he is renovating to house a new business. 

When there was no one else, he came forward with a plan for the Jones Building and will create a 

downtown, first-floor location for the Tyrone-Snyder Public Library.

 His work in constructing the City Hotel Park has made the dreams of the benefactor come alive 

as a beautiful cornerstone for our town. Folks around here tease him that he is not as internationally

 famous as his brothers of the TV series, "Junkyard Wars," but locally, there is no question that 

Jeff Long is having a significant impact on this place we call home.         

 OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

for December, 2001 to Todd Lewis

In November, 1993, this award was presented to Rev. Dr. Samuel T. (Ted) Lewis, 

In July, 2001, this award was presented to Dr. Kathryn Lewis. It is appropriate 

that their son Todd becomes the third member of this family to be recognized for 

large and continuing amounts of service to the community and area. Todd is 

active in the Sinking Valley Arch Springs United Presbyterian Church, but that 

is only the beginning of his spiritual concerns. He is one of the founders of the 

Christian Fellowship Group in Tyrone, and is now involved in a new outreach 

program, as well as the Jesus Video project.

He purchased a longtime Tyrone business and has not only led it to continued 

prosperity, but has made it the keystone of an expanding group of stores in 

Pennsylvania and New York state.

For many years Todd was the leader of the downtown retail committee, and his 

support for the town's service organizations is continuous. Todd consistently 

follows in the footsteps of his mother and his late father in having a significant 

impact on this place we call home.

 

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

for November, 2001 to

Employees of Westvaco

Let it be known that throughout the 121 year life of the Paper Mill in 

Tyrone, the workers in the plant, office, lab and wood yards would 

"pass the hat" to collect funds to support local charities and efforts

 in the Tyrone area.

This was not an official function of the management or the union,

 but just concerned people who joined together and helped local 

efforts they believed in.

Over the years, this support has enriched the lives of countless 

persons, and has helped families to get through misfortunes or 

illness, provide toys for needy kids, or to enjoy things such as 

the Christmas Lighting and sports activities in town.

Although the mill is now a memory and its workers are dispersed 

like leaves in the wind, it is appropriate to remember and honor 

these folks and what they did. So this recognition will be placed 

in a public location so future generations can know that their 

lives have been enriched by a group of good people who regularly 

"passed the hat" to help.

· Truly, they had a significant impact on this place we call home.

 

 

           OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

for October, 2001 to Donna Carson

For 43 years, the lifeline of the Tyrone Hospital ran directly through Donna

Carson's office. This was the information center, the clearing house, the nerve

 center of the entire hospital campus.

Through these four and a half decades, the hospital had many leaders and a

 thousand different staff members, but Donna was always there.

Now that she has retired as Executive Secretary to the CEO and Human 

Resources Director, her life will not be less busy, because she has continued

 her work for community causes, but with even more time to devote to them.

This should not indicate that she is detached from Tyrone Hospital, since

 her work with the Hospital Auxiliary remains undiminshed. But, she has

 more time for the Tyrone Community Players as well as the YMCA and 

other causes.

Her retirement at the end of last month brought to a close a part of her life, 

but she still is having a significant impact on this place we call home.

 

Radio Station WTRN is pleased to present the

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

for September, 2001 to Frances Hiney Williams

Many people half her age are starting to slow down, not Frances. At the age of 83, 

she has been "officially" retired for twenty years. You would never know it. She 

was one of the original staff members of Tyrone Hospital when it opened, and 

etired after 25 years of service, but remains an active member of the Hospital 

Auxiliary, and also volunteers in the Physical Therapy Department three days

 a week, four hours each day. For about ten hours each month, she does volunteer 

work at the Altoona Veterans Hospital, and during the visits of the American 

Red Cross Bloodmobile, she is there for the full 6 hours, sometimes twice a month.

An honorably discharged veteran, Frances is widely acclaimed as one of the first 

women to serve in the Armed Forces of the United States. During World War 2, 

Frances was stationed at the U. S. Naval Hospital at Bethesda, MD. She is

 very active in the VFW Auxiliary and the Cootiettes.

Frances Hiney Williams continues every day to have a significant impact on this 

place we call home.

 

Radio Station WTRN  is pleased to present the

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

for August, 2001 to BOB CLITES

When the decision was made to hold the VFW Teener' Baseball League's  State Championships 

in Tyrone, Bob Clites rounded up a crew of volunteers to begin the task of improving Ferner Field 

to be one of the best. The baseballfield today is excellent, but only because of a lot of hard work by 

Bob and his group, who have spent thousands of hours getting the fill dirt to make the surface 

the best, growing the grass, working to get the new lights and get everything done..Bob himself

 has worked around the clock to finish the project . He was mowing the lawn at 2:30 the other 

morning.  He has worked in snowy weather and 90 degree heat. Today, Ferner Field is one 

of the finest fields where playoff games could take place. This is Bob's gift to young sports

 players and to our town. And he deserves the thanks of everyone. The members of his 

volunteer crew unanimously agree that he deserves this recognition.

Truly, Bob Clites is having a significant impact on this place we call home.

 

 

 OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

for July, 2001 to

Dr. Kathryn Lewis

The kind look never leaves her eyes.

Dr. Kay Lewis has shown compassion

and understanding to her patients, to her

family and friends, and to strangers here

as well as in far distant places around the world.

· She has recently retired as a Pediatrician in

Tyrone, but has not retired as a Mother and

Grandmother, nor as a good friend to so many.

Nor has she retired from her concern for persons

in Haiti, where she has gone with other church

members to help with the basic services we take

for granted. Dr. Kay Lewis carried on bravely

after the untimely death of her husband,

Rev. Dr. Samuel (Ted) Lewis, who was pastor

of the Sinking Valley and Lower Spruce Creek

Presbyterian Churches. She completed his

longtime dream, a Meditation Walk adjacent to

the Tyrone Hospital, enlisting help from

Eagle Scout Aaron Scordo and the Vocational

Agriculture Department of Tyrone Area High School

In very special ways, Dr. Kathryn Lewis

has had aignificant impact on this

place we call home.

 

OUTSTANDING

CITIZEN AWARD

for June, 2001,

to

Linda and Larry Strong

After 30 years, Linda and Larry Strong of Tyrone are retiring

 from careers as elementary school teachers. Both have always

 been involved in boosting sports activities from Minor and Little 

League to High School Sports, Larry as a coach and Linda as a fan 

and singing theNational Anthem before events. They probably 

have the attendance record for the Altoona Curve, and some Curve 

players have stayed at their home. Linda's been active in The Allegheny

 Chorale, Tyrone Community  Players and the YMCA Board. Larry and

 Linda have valiantly continued after the  tragic death of their only son,

 Scott, several years ago in an automobile accident. Scott was a true 

role model for younger kids and a phenomenal athlete. Recently,  the

 Strongs provided a batting cage for the new Tyrone Basebal1 Fields in

 loving memory of Scott.

Truly, Linda and Larry Strong are having a significant impact on this 

place we call home.

 

Radio Station WTRN is pleased to present the OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD 

for May, 2001 to Rita and Ernie Dick

For many years, Rita and Ernie have been leaders and workers for the betterment of the

 citizens of the Tyrone area, young and old alike.

Ernie was one of the young men who guided the Tyrone JayCees, and when it was 

changed to the Tyrone Area Community Organization, his wife Rita became equally

 active. Ernie and Rita didn't care if they or others, were leaders of a TACO project, 

they just dug in and worked for its success.

Ernie is also involved in the Tyrone VFW Teener League, which is hosting the 

State Championships here this summer.

Tyrone is fortunate to have such dedicated leaders and workers for the volunteer

 projects that make this a special place to live.

Rita and Ernie Dick are having a significant impact on this place we call home.

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

for April, 2001 to Al Drayovitch, Jr.

Tyrone is blessed to have an exceptional civic team focusing on major improvements. Working

 closely with the Mayor, Council, and the borough's employees, consultants and engineers, Tyrone

 Borough Manager Al Drayovitch is at the center of it all, keeping things organized and moving ahead.

Because of this effective team, Tyrone has seen many grants and state funds in recent years for things

such as a rebuild of a number of borough streets, after the underground infrastructure was replaced, 

as well as a large expansion of the treatment facility, and funds for recreational improvements. Most 

recently, the renovation and updating of the Borough Building was completed, including an elevator to 

make all floors accessible to everyone.

Al would be the first to share credit with others. But without question, his office is the "nerve center"

 for much of the community's recent progress. Surely, Al Drayovitch is having a significant impact 

on this place we call home.

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD for March, 2001 

Coach Tom Miller

Once a coach, always a coach; long years later, former students will credit them with turning their 

lives around, of being role models, one of the strongest influences in their lives. This is true of Tom Miller.                         A typical story tells it best: "One day, he pulled me· into his office and asked when I was going to get my act together.  I was running with the wrong crowd and smoking and doing bad things. He got me interested in track and in 1979 we were undefeated and Conference Champions.  If it was not for Coach Miller, I probably would not have graduated.  So many of his former players are good people and citizens of life."                                                As a Freshman at Colorado State, Tom Miller beat out 14 others and became the Rams starting Quarterback.  Throughout a long coaching career, he taught this same effort and energy to his players, as well as to his daughter Barbara, who excelled in basketball as an all-time high scorer at Tyrone and St. Francis.                       Without a doubt, Tom Miller has had a significant impact on this place we call home.

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD FOR FEBRUARY, 2001  to    Nancy Wilt and Adelene Price 

Since its founding in 1965, The Tyrone Snyder Public Library has been a treasured

 community asset W. Paul Price was one of the founders. After his death, his wife 

Adelene assumed his interest and concern for the new institution.

And at about the same time, Nancy Wilt also became involved. Nancy was to serve

 as a director for a total of 24 years, and a volunteer at the library since 1969.

 Adelene has been a longtime board member; and most recently served as its 

President.

Without willing volunteers such as Nancy and Adelene to assist the professional 

staff; our library would be a mere shell of what we know.

On the occasion of the retirement of these two outstanding "pillars" of our library, 

we pay tribute to them for their service and for their enthusiasm during their 

countless hours of volunteer service. Truly, they have had a significant impact

 on this place we call home.

-0-

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD

 January, 2001 to Jim and Jessica Kilmartin

Jim Kilmartin had a vision: of helping young people in his hometown to find a better way. He created

 Joshua House in downtown Tyrone. He built it, and they came.

As his dream unfolded, he added a life's partner, his college sweetheart. Now Jim and his wife Jessica

 have been joined by several friends in transforming a building on Tenth Street into a place for young 

people to come and find help in spiritual as well as everyday matters. Now, many young Tyroners come 

each k for wholesome recreation, fellowship, help with studies and learning, and a simple Christian 

message of love.

Working together, Jim and Jessica are showing a way of hope, truth and life to many young people 

who have never had this opportunity before. They are providing a refuge for those who otherwise

 might say, "there's nothing to do; nowhere to go."

Jim and Jessica Kilmartin are having a significant impact on this place we call home.

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD For December, 2000 to

GERTIE SUMMERS

When the Scriptures say, Make a Joyful Sound, they are describing Gertie Summers’ life; it is a

ministry of Glorifying God through Music. She is the longtime organist at Christ United Methodist 

Church, and also plays at Northwood Baptist Chapel, where, for so many years she and her husband 

Gib were responsible for the annual Christmas Cantata.

Gertie has the unique ability to play by ear, and this helps her as an accompanist, or playing requests 

at the Grange, or at Epworth Manor. A Sunday School Teacher for many years, and a longtime Girl 

Scout leader, Gertie has "Brightened The Corner" for many, including persons at world famous 

 

Lake Chautauqua.

Truly Gertie Summers has had, and is having, a significant impact on this place we call home.

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD for November, 2000

TODD CAMMARATA

This young teacher at the Tyrone Area High School realized that a priceless treasure of 

information was slipping away from us as the Veterans of World War 2 are aging. So, he 

conceived of a project in which his students would conduct oral history interviews with many 

of these Ex-GIs who served in combat in the war that was raging from 1942 to 1945.

The idea grew and a number of these Veterans of World War 2 appeared before assembly 

programs for the student body, and held the young people in rapt attention as they described 

such things as being a 17 year old in battle, and seeing buddies killed, or the feeling of being 

freed from a prisoner-of-war camp.

Todd has provided an immense amount of information for future students to use in 

order to learn about the conflict that involved every home and every person in America.

Truly, he has had a significant impact on this place we call home.

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD for October, 2000, to

Virgie and Brenda Werner

Virgie and her daughter Brenda have spearheaded Tyrone's Sesquicentennial Celebration, and 

have brought our community together to observe the 150th anniversary of the founding in 1850.

They built upon the original idea of a Giant Parade, and ended up with a dozen special events that 

will have involved over a thousand participants and workers. After the Sesquicentennial Parade, 

which involved 56 floats, bands and marching units, the U.S. Army Drill Team performed at Gray 

Field. A week later, a Car Show attracted antique, classic, and custom cars, followed by a Cruise 

downtown, including the famous "Hard Man" up and down the Avenue. The Jazz Show was 

dedicated to Senior Citizens, with a good crowd. At the midpoint of the celebration, a Colonial 

Village has been added to Rotary's Farm City Day.

The Community will join in a Celebration of Faith, and CelticFusion will honor Tyrone's 

Irish Roots. Kids Day at the new Rail Park and Train Rides down the Valley will be followed 

by other events to close the year. Through it all the song, "Celebrate Tyrone" has been heard 

hundreds of times. Virgie and Brenda produced and sold ads in a souvenir booklet and secured 

corporate underwriters to ensure the viability of the effort. Without a doubt, they have had a s

ignificant impact on this place we call home.

 OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARD For September, 2000 to

              CHRIS HAMMOND &  JOSH HARPSTER          

Every Volunteer Firefighter continuously trains for a moment when he or she may 

need to enter a burning building to attempt to save a life.

That moment came last month for two Tyrone Firemen, Josh Harpster and Chris Hammond.

 Using protective equipment and the training they had received, they knew what to do, and did it.

Josh and Chris do not seek recognition for what they did. No volunteer firefighter does. But, we

 are reminded again of the tremendous value to each of us that is represented by the firefighters

 of our community. We salute them all. They are having a significant impact on this place

 we call home.

 

OUTSTANDING CITIZENS FOR AUGUST, 2000

 

 

Dave Hoffman Sr. and Dave Hoffman Jr., the Outstanding Citizen Recipients for the 

month of August. This father and son combination chaired the Central District Firemen's 

Conventions in Tyrone in 1988 and 2000 respectively.   Both have been volunteer firemen 

throughout their lives.  Dave, Sr., was the Fire Chief of Bald Eagle Fire Company for many years.  

Dave, Jr., is a Fire Lieutenant of the Blazing Arrow Hook and Ladder Company of Tyrone.   

The community is proud of the service of this unique two generation family.  

OUTSTANDING CITIZENS FOR JUNE, 2000

  

The DelGrosso Family was the recipient for the month of June.    Joe and Jim DelGrosso are shown as they received a  national award from the Small Business Administration.

OUTSTANDING  CITIZEN FOR JULY,2000

The July award went to Andrew Moore, one of the area's outstanding artists, 

whose paintings have been prized by individuals, churches and others.  He also has

 a wonderful musical voice, and has appeared with church choirs here and at the Vatican. 

Above is one of Andy's paintings.   

COMPLETE LIST OF WTRN

OUTSTANDING CITIZEN AWARDS

Year 2000

January    Donna Natalie, RN

February   Betty Andrews

March        Don Wagner

April         John Rice

May           Kelly C. Wike and Todd Lewis

June         The DelGrosso Family

July         Andrew Moore

August     David Hoffman, Sr. and  David Hoffman, Jr.

September Chris Hammond and Josh Harpster

October Brenda Werner and  Virgie Werner

November  Todd Cammmaratta 

December  Gertie Summers

Year l999

January     Gary McGovern

February    Jerry Spangler

March        The TAHS Swim Team

April         Congressman Bud Shuster

May         `John Burket

June         Joan Smith

July         Tony Yaniello

August     Tyrone Hospital Auxiliary

September Marge and Charlie Hoyer

October     Cummins McNitt

November   Jim Daughenbaugh

December   Tyrone Lodge #25,   Loyal Order of Moose

 

Year l998

January Father Vance Clark

February Chester Geist

March

April

May     `Elaine Conrad

June

July     Mike Beckwith, Rick Sessamen,  Chris Hammond

August George Sessamen

September Mayor Pat Stoner

October Bill Ellenberger

November Major Karen Garrett

December Tyrone Community Players

 

Year l997

January       Dr. Daniel Friday

February     Jim Crawford

March         Lady Eagles Basketball Team

April         `Jessie Anders

May            Dan Ashcroft

June           David J. Black

July           Mark Catherman

August       Verden Latchford, Sr. and   Verden Latchford, Jr

September

October        Peter Gardella

November     Gene Johnson

December     Doris Garber

 

Year l996

January     Tyrone Volunteer Firemen And Fire Police

February   David Luke

March        A. Pearl Cowher

April         Hulda and Bill Engelman

May         Tyrone Elks Lodge #2l2

June        Gloria Harris

July         Police Chief Jim Miller

August     Dick Rounsley

September Larrie A. Derman

October     Ray Savino

November Sue O’Brien

December Golden Eagles Footbal l Team

 

Year l995

January      Phil Lusardi

February     Rev. Kraig Faust

March         Bill McMinn

April           Pete Dutrow

May            Byron (Barney) Mogle

June           Scott Martin, Quality Chemicals

July            Richard H. Searer

August     Kelly C. Wike

September Honey Wilson

October     Rev. Norman Huff

November   Coach John Franco

December  Capt. Nancy Beauchamp

 

Year l994

January      Msgr. Richard J. Walsh

February     Judy Norris

March         Bill Harshman

April           Richard Bishop

May             Neil Smith

June           Dr. and Mrs. Leroy Bowers

July            Virgie Werner

August       George Stever

September Lew Poorman

October     Bill Nelson

November Gerry Roberts

December Jim and Bobbie Ramsay

 

Year l993

January     Sam Hayes, Jr.

February    Paul Hasson

March        Harry K. Sickler, Jr.

April          Sam Loth

May            Tom Robinson

June         Ted Wood

July         Bev and Fred Getz

August     Bob Westley

September  Marjorie Barr

October     Fred and Murf DelGrosso

November Rev. Samuel T. Lewis

December Charles and Elizabeth Bressler

 

Year l992

January

February

March

April           Steve Hartman

May            Betsy Smith

June

July

August        Morris Levine

September Suzanne Sickler Ohl

October     Rose Black, Dee Hess, and  Benjie Johnbson

November Jack and Scott Hiller

December Tonie Cameron, Salvation Army