#242 HOLIDAY 2020

2 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242

A Message of Thanksgiving from Punxsutawney Hometown

W On the cover: Happy Thanksgiving!

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By Jennifer Skarbek of Hometown magazine

ith a recent surge of coronavirus cases in our country and the recommendation from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to limit the number of people at holiday gatherings, as well as the caution from Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine to celebrate only within one’s household, we are faced with unfamiliar and unusual circumstances and choices about how to observe Thanksgiving and Christmas this year.

Thus, occasions traditionally marked by visits from friends and relatives will have to be revamped in order to mitigate the virus. Such alterations and sacrifices concur with a year of chaos and uncertainty in our world. Foremost, the coronavirus pandemic has taken over our everyday, normal routines and ways of life, turning them upside down and inside out. It hasn’t been easy. Our schools have been transformed from hubs of socialization and collaboration to online, virtual learning spaces and socially distanced and sterile classrooms. Our stores limit the number of customers inside, pass out hand sanitizer and wipes, and can’t easily keep their shelves stocked with the bare essentials.

Our churches have either closed their doors or have been reduced to the attendance of a handful of the faithful sparsely filling the seats. Some restaurants and businesses have laid off workers or were forced to shut down. Concerts and live shows are happenings of the past. Sporting events are broadcast but with bleachers and stands looking like uninhabited voids.

We do not visit our neighbors. We don’t offer a handshake or a hug when we greet

BLACK FRIDAY SPECIALS

a friend. Family gatherings have become mere memories, and celebrations and special occasions have been downsized, shared online or altogether canceled. Following the CDC’s guidelines, we stay sixfeet away from others and wear masks and face shields to reduce transmission. As a result, people have become isolated and lonely, longing for human touch, for the simple warmth that comes from witnessing another’s smiling visage. Worse yet, perhaps you or your loved ones have had the virus or are still dealing with the long

list of lingering symptoms that persist for days, weeks and months after the initial diagnosis. Or, maybe you have suffered the unfortunate loss of someone dear who succumbed to the wrath of COVID-19. Much of the public swears that this year has been cursed, professing that it cannot end soon enough. Memes and comics depicting such a situation are scattered all over social media. Some trust that the ill events are sure signs of end times, while many more have a difficult time imagining that the world will ever go back to the way it was “B.C.,” in this case, “Before Coronavirus.”

However, despite the topsy-turvy events of

2020, some optimists would argue that our nation and our world have endured some similar difficulties or those of a far greater magnitude and have risen up to the challenge, becoming stronger in the process.

Then, why not believe that this trial will be another occasion of such persistence and resilience? After all, hasn’t humankind been imbued with the belief that hope can rise from disaster, that blessings can come from suffering, that every cloud has a silver lining? With that thought in mind, hasn’t the pandemic slowed down the hectic pace of 21st Century life, making us enjoy and appreciate the small graces in our lives with more fervor and zeal?

As a whole, we have spent more quality time at home.

We have become gardeners, bakers and home-improvement whizzes. We have turned to meditation, reflection and prayer. We have begun new exercise regimens and have devoted more thought to health and well-being. We have polished our computer skills, taking part in video conferences and chats and online learning opportunities. We have organized our attics and basements, donating from our excess to charities and nonprofit organizations. Aren’t these all positive outcomes from a negative condition?

Embracing these favorable gains and showing gratitude for our blessings, let’s challenge ourselves to devise creative alternatives for celebrating the holidays in a different but equally significant way. This year, instead of voicing our gratitude, we could show our thankfulness through purposeful actions. President John F. Kennedy said this well with the following - Continued on page 9

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Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242 – 3

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Dr. Boriana Kamenova with staff of the Hillman Cancer Center at the Punxsutawney Area Hospital Campus. Submitted photo. (front row, l. to r.) Linda Johnson, Mandy Steffy, Darla Carnahan, Dr. Boriana Kamenova, Dana McElroy - PA-C, Alexis Mitchell and Beth Winebark. (back row) Michelle Tonkovich and Lisa Warshell.

Hillman Cancer Center Comes to Punxsutawney Area Hospital Campus

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PMC Hillman Cancer Center is one of the largest integrated cancer networks in the nation with nearly 80 cancer centers throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland and internationally. It’s also the only National Cancer Institute designated comprehensive cancer center in western Pennsylvania and one of just 51 such centers in the United States.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center treats more than 138,000 individuals each year, of which more than 43,000 are new patients. With more than 2,000 physicians, researchers and staff, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is internationally recognized for its leadership in the prevention, detection, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

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“We are elated to offer the expertise of leading physicians, researchers and programs in our community while providing optimal care in this partnership with UPMC,” said Daniel Blough, CEO of Punxsutawney Area Hospital.

Joining the Punxsutawney Area Hospital team will be two board certified hematology oncologists. Boriana Kamenova, M.D. and Gopala Amarnath Ramineni, M.D. both have years of experience in cancer treatment, caring for patients most recently at the nearby Indiana Regional Medical Center.

“The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center model of care provides the highest level of cancer treatment, the same that patients receive if they traveled to our flagship center in Pittsburgh, without having to make that trip,” said Stephanie Dutton, vice president and chief operating officer at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. “This means patients will have access to groundbreaking research, hundreds of clinical trials and medical oncologists who are right in the Punxsutawney area.”

Hillman Cancer Center has state-of-the-art treatment and imaging technology such as Varian TrueBeam™ and EDGE™, Accuray CyberKnife®, positron-emission tomography/computed tomography (PET-CT) and magnetic-resonance imaging (MRI) that enable UPMC’s radiation oncology department to employ the latest innovative techniques such as intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), - Continued on page 9

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4 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242

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Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242 – 5 2598_upmc_punxsy_cc_local_9.1x11.25_a.indd 1

11/6/20 2:53 PM

The familiar view of Elk Run Avenue at the intersection with Graffius Avenue is different than a view of that Elk Run section in the 1950s when Punxsutawney neighborhoods and small towns had family-operated grocery stores.

p.m.

Seen in the circa 1955 photo are many businesses at the Elk Run intersection. They include Tronzo’s Market (far left), Dick’s Market (third from left) and Staple’s Market on Graffius Ave. (at right on the corner of the intersection). The “modern” Tronzo’s Super Market was built in 1949.

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he recent presentations in Hometown about Punxsutawney’s Little League and the VFW Teener League were of particular interest to older readers who were young boys in the 1950s. That reaction is known by the responses to the writer about their memories as young baseball players then, and unaware they were a part of Punxsutawney area history. However, history wasn’t the reason why they played baseball in 1950. But, it is on record that 1950 was the first year of organized baseball for boys ages 9 through 12 in a national Little League program. For young teens, the VFW Teener League was initiated in 1951 to continue to develop baseball skills and learn sportsman-

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6 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242

- Continued on page 8

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ship.

It’s encouraging to know that these programs continue 70 years later, into the 21st century, for others to participate in and gain from them. Reflecting on that fact and with other memories, it became known that there were other “firsts” occurring in Punxsutawney area history during those mid-20th century years. Other events occurred while many of our readers were younger and unaware of the convenience they have become on a regular basis in our lives.

In this writing the writer reveals some of the conveniences that we wouldn’t do without entering 2021. Yes, things have changed.

The Convenience of Super Markets For many years every neighborhood in Punxsutawney or any village or small town

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The 1952 fire at the Pantall Hotel began on the third floor. Firemen were hampered because they did not have an aerial ladder truck, and the fire was located between the third floor ceiling and the roof. Only one person was injured in this fire. Harl’s Shoe Store, Nolph’s Novelties and News Stand, and Albert’s Men’s Wear Store suffered extensive water damage. Photo by Charles Furl, courtesy of PAHGS.

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The Phoenix – Part IV

By Coal Memorial Committee for Hometown magazine orld War II ended on September 2, 1945. On September 26, 1945, the following article appeared in the Brookville American: “The Pantall Hotel, of Punxsutawney is being incorporated by the new owners, John M. Wargo, Albert J.

ward B. Wargo. The incorporators were the sons of a coal miner, Michael Wargo and his wife Veronica who emigrated from Slovakia and were recorded as living at Plymouth Borough, Luzerne County in 1920. At the time of the incorporation of the Pantall Hotel, Inc., John M. Wargo was identified as residing in Meadville, where he operated a news store.

The stated purposes of the corporation were: “The establishment, maintenance and operation of an hotel, rooming house, boarding house, livery, waiting station, ticket office and terminal for busses, taxis and other conveyances, with right and power to act as agent for the furnishing of telegraph, telephone, cable and other communications service; to buy, own, hold and sell stocks, The Phoenix Rises again. The Hotel Pantall Building, 2020, bonds, securities and other tangithe landmark and anchor building of downtown Punxble and intangible arsenal propsutawney is undergoing major renovations under new ownership. For 200 years the buildings which have stood on erty, to buy, own, hold, lease and this corner have welcomed travelers to Punxsutawney. sell real property, buildings, fixThis structure was built over 130 years ago and has under- tures, appurtenances and furnishgone many changes. It currently features a rooftop facility which overlooks Barclay Square. Photo courtesy of S.J. ings; to borrow money and Sharp. mortgage or otherwise encumber property, both real and personal, Wargo and Edward B. Wargo.” The paper owned by said corporation; to engage in contained an announcement of the intent to mercantile business of all kinds, both file articles of incorporation for a business wholesale and retail, including the purchase, corporation named Pantall Hotel, Inc. Jesse sale and distribution of food, beverages both P. Long, Esq., had filed papers on behalf of alcoholic and non-alcoholic, magazines, John M. Wargo, Albert J. Wargo, and Ed-

W

- Continued on page 13

A Time to Give Thanks

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Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242 – 7

Sharing Our Thanks & Best Wishes

We’re so grateful to be a part of this wonderful community, and we thank you for your valued business.

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LESA WALKER A circa 1910 color post card shows a view of North Findley Street with the railroad crossing in the foreground. Also identified is the 1907 Jefferson St. High School Building and the large red brick Jefferson Theatre building. The site of two frame buildings along the railroad siding (center) would be the location of a new Super Market to be built in 1948.

Super Markets Continued from page 6

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in the area had a family-operated grocery store to provide the necessary foods for any meal. In East End, West End, Elk Run, downtown, on Jenks Hill or in Anita, Big Run, Cloe, Frostburg, Ringgold, etc., there were the small stores for the needs of any family.

In the 1949 Punxsutawney Centennial publication, with its cherished history of a hundred years or more, over a dozen family grocery stores are listed. Among them are Dick’s Market, Staples, Tronzo’s and Mayo’s Market in Elk Run, Fleckenstein’s Grocery Store and Castronova Grocery on Pine Street, City Food Market on North Findley Street, Notarian’s Store on Park Avenue in the Jenks Hill area, Jones Fairlawn Store in West End and more. The Fairlawn and American Stores introduced franchise-supported grocery stores. The Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company had smaller stores in Punxsutawney as early as 1916. The Barletta family began an ambitious operation of smaller stores in 1924, with branches in DuBois and Clearfield. The men in the family or relatives kept them in operation until the “big stores” came on the scene and names such A&P, Krogers, Acme and Quaker had full-page ads in the local newspaper, The Punxsutawney Spirit.

The new idea of “self-serve” was brought to Punxsutawney in April 1936, when the Kroger chain opened a new, larger Kroger Store on the ground floor in the old 3-story Masonic building that was located at 201 East Mahoning Street at N. Jefferson Street, facing the park. With its opening, and a new front of plate glass windows on either side of a center entrance, it was described in The Punxsutawney Spirit as: “…one of the most attractive of the chain stores located in Punxs’y.” (That strip of business buildings along the “plaza” between North Jefferson Street and North Penn Street was demolished during the federal redevelopment program of the 1970s. Not demolished was the Eagles Lodge building near North Penn Street).

When neighborhood stores began to close, local residents were introduced to the word “Super-Market” as a new Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company store occupied a new building in 1938 between North Penn Street and the East End bridge.

A “self-serve type” market, it was described as: “one of the most modern and best lighted markets in town.” Ten truckloads of food items were brought in for shelves that were widely spaced and clearly marked with prices for the shopper. (August 15, 1938, The Punxsutawney Spirit) In June 1938, American Stores, later called Acme Markets, opened a new “self-serve market” on West Mahoning Street in a build- Continued on page 10

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8 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242

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Message of Thanksgiving Continued from page 3

words: “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” Hence, here’s a list of suggestions from which you may borrow, or you may choose your own way to exhibit thanks.

• Treat COVID frontline workers with delivery from a local restaurant.

• Send a shut-in a festive bouquet.

• Volunteer some of your free time at a food pantry.

• Send a care package to someone serving our country overseas.

• Shovel your neighbor’s sidewalk when it is covered with snow.

• Allow someone to go ahead of you in line at the grocery store.

• Pick up the bill of someone at a restaurant.

• Call a friend or relative with whom you haven’t spoken in a while.

• Leave a sweet treat on a co-worker’s desk.

• Send a card to a nursing home patient.

• Donate your jar of change to a homeless shelter.

• Randomly pay a compliment to a stranger.

• Donate food to a school’s snack program.

• Show forgiveness to someone with whom you may have had a disagreement.

• Offer a listening ear and a nonjudgmental heart to a person in a difficult situation.

• Give a blanket or a jacket to a homeless person or someone in need of warmth.

As evidenced by history, our country and our world have survived some horrible events and disasters that, at the time, presented themselves as unsurmountable challenges. We have succeeded, carried on and moved forward through a spirit of strength, a will to survive, an ability to band together, a pledge to never give up, a belief in God and a hope that cannot be silenced.

Let us then vow to let not the events of this year be our demise, but rather our inspiration for action, change, gratitude and love.

Wishing you and yours a blessed and happy Thanksgiving!

•••

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Hillman Cancer Continued from page 4 stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and MRI-guided HDR brachytherapy. Hillman Cancer Center is making advancements by utilizing standardized clinical pathways through web-based decision-support tools to help guide physicians in developing a treatment plan customized for each patient’s particular type and stage of cancer. Each pathway is rooted in scientific evidence and combines innovative and promising clinical trial options with the best standard-of-care therapies.

Hillman is a national leader in immunotherapy research and treatment and the first center in western Pennsylvania to offer chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, a type of immunotherapy that uses a patient’s own genetically modified T cells to find and kill

cancer cells.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is a pioneer in innovative surgical techniques, having performed more than 500 robotic Whipple procedures since 2008 and more than 1,900 cytoreductive surgeries for peritoneal metastases since 2001.

With achievements such as UPMC’s being ranked No. 15 in the country for cancer care in 2020 by U.S. News & World Report, the Punxsutawney Area Hospital is ecstatic to bring this level of care to our community.

Appointments can be made by calling 814938-5212 or through the coordination of a family physician, PCP or another specialist.

This enables us to obtain records needed to make a patient’s appointment and to have treatment options available at the time of the visit. Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

•••

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Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242 – 9

With Our Thanks For Your Business!

There’s nothing we would rather say, Than “have a happy Thanksgiving Day!”

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ing that had recently housed Miller’s Furniture Store. The announcement of its opening made the public aware that it was a self-serve setup, popular in big cities. Shoppers were prepared to see aisles of racks on which articles were more accessible to the shopper.

“Doubtless, the new setup will attract a great deal of attention.” (June 29, 1938, The Punxsutawney Spirit) An announcement in The Punxsutawney Spirit in December 1948 indicated that grocery shopping was changing. The announcement began, “Punxsutawney’s newest food store, Lauer’s Super Market, will be opened officially ...” In the East End section, in a cement block, glazed tile building with two big “picture” windows in front, with modern fluorescent lighting would be “the most modern food market in that area of the city.”

Thomas Shearer had operated his smaller Shearer Market on the East Mahoning Street site since 1924 before Bernard Lauer purchased the business and built the new, larger building. The building still sits on the site, but things have changed. It has had different uses since 1948.

The Grand Opening of a New A&P Super Market On February 1, 1949, The Punxsutawney Spirit newspaper announced that two A&P stores in Punxsutawney would close and the

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In early 1949, two Atlantic and Pacific grocery stores were closed in Punxsutawney as the Grand Opening of a one-story, large A&P Super Market would follow. Thousands of Punxsutawney shoppers were introduced to the automatic “magic eye” door opener, popular in the larger cities.

Quality products at everyday low prices!

10 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242

store in operation since 1938 near the East End bridge would close February 8. It wasn’t the end of A&P stores. lt was to be the beginning of “one of the most complete and modern food markets in Western Pennsylvania” when the A&P Company threw open the doors to a new super market on North Findley Street near the B&O Railroad property.

Ready for Punxsutawney area shoppers was “the last word in self-service efficiency markets.”

The new building, 85 feet by 150 feet long, replaced two older frame buildings on the site. Construction for the one-story building began in June 1948, costing an estimated $90,000. Intrigued about the construction for months, residents were ready to visit the new store on its grand opening after Groundhog Day, on February 10.

The Spirit headlined the excitement of the opening day. It was reported that 5,000 people attended the opening. From its opening time of 9 a.m. until a 5 p.m. closing, a steady parade of shoppers and many “lookers” visited the new store.

With everything new in the super-big market, including 175 lighting fixtures of more than 300 fluorescent tubes providing “daylight” shopping, one new feature of the store created the most interest, wonderment and amusement for shoppers. For the first time among the history of any store in Punxsutawney, shoppers were introduced to a “magic eye” door, or also called an “electriceye” door. It’s a convenience we have be- Continued on page 12

Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242 – 11

Happy Thanksgiving

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12 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242

The building on North Findley Street, constructed in 1948-49 for the A&P Supermarket, is presently in use as Ragley’s Hardware, previously Ragley’s Tru-Value Hardware.

In the East End section of Punxsutawney, the buffcolored, glazed brick building on East Mahoning Street is used by the 36 Uptown Sign business.

The building was built in 1948 and opened in December 1948 as Lauer’s Super Market. It was advertised as “the most modern food market in that area of the city,” replacing a smaller frame Shearer’s Market.

Super Markets Continued from page 10

come used to. For entrance and exit, the door opened automatically, especially helpful for a shopper leaving a building with loaded arms of merchandise. Most assuredly, it was something for local people to talk about, unless they had experienced the “magic eye” in any travel to big cities.

The modern A&P Super Market of “magic eye” history in Punxsutawney closed in September 1982. In the building at present is Ragley’s Hardware on North Findley Street, near the railroad.

In 1949 there were other “Super Markets” entering the Punxsutawney shopping competition. In late May 1949, the Sparkle Super-Market opened in Punxsutawney, operated by the Jefferson Grocery Company.

The local company was founded by Joseph Levy, and operated for years by members of the Levy family. Most older residents will remember the Comet Markets of Levy’s Jefferson Grocery Company. In 1935, when Joseph Levy opened his first Streamline

Market in Pittsburgh, he claimed he was a pioneer of the self-service system. In 1943 the Streamline chain became the Sparkle Market chain. In that new Sparkle Market would also be the “electric eye” to open big glass doors for entering and leaving.

With the new A&P opening in February, and the Acme store in May, the Sparkle store was the third opening of a major food market in Punxsutawney in 1949. To follow in November 1949 was the announcement of a new Tronzo Super Market Store in Elk Run. In Elk Run since 1915, and operated by Alfred and Louis Tronzo, sons of the founder Gasper Tronzo, the Tronzo’s Store was considered to be one of Punxsutawney’s oldest independent retail grocery stores. It, too, was completely self-service with “new-type food carrier baskets” to carry grocery items as the customer maneuvered the wide aisle spaces between shelves of items. In announcing the opening of the new store, the Spirit news story claimed the store had the distinction of being “the only super market in Western Pennsylvania utilizing the new buff-colored glazed brick walls.” (Buff-colored, glazed brick walls: There were a number of those type of buildings erected in Punxsutawney in the 1940s. That’s another story to be written for local readers who remember the 1950s.)

With all that happening while in the 1940s and 50s, the historic beginning years of Little League and Teener League in 1950 and 1951 would follow. In local super market history, 1955 marked the opening of the Barletta family’s new Quaker Market in Punxsutawney’s East End section (where is now the U.S. Post Office). It was one of eight Quaker Super Markets to be built in the area by the Barletta Grocery Company.

In a study of Punxsutawney area history, there are many more life’s conveniences to report as stories.

•••

The Phoenix Part IV Continued from page 7

books, newspapers, periodicals, pamphlets, cards, tickets, subscriptions, cigars, cigarettes, tobacco, tobacconist’s supplies, candy, fruit, refreshments, souvenirs, toys and other merchandise, together with service of food and beverages both alcoholic and non-alcoholic; and to furnish room service, laundry service, valet service, theatre and other entertainment ticket service, messenger services, tonsorial service, travel service, package delivery service, garage service and all other kinds of services relative to the purpose hereinabove stated for any of them.” This was a large, diversified undertaking.

Albert J. Wargo arrived in Punxsutawney in 1936, and was the founder and owner of the Wargo News Agency; Edward B. Wargo worked for and retired from Pantall Hotel; and, John M. Wargo functioned as the general manager for the business.

During the time the Wargo brothers owned the property, fire revisited several times. On February 6, 1952, Catherine Burns, a resident at the hotel, had heated water for tea on an electric hotplate in her third floor room. She unplugged the hot plate and went down the hall to the bathroom. When she returned and opened the door her room it was engulfed in flames. She received second and third degree burns and was taken to the Adrian Hospital. Seventy firemen fought the blaze which was determined to be the worst fire in Punxsutawney since the 1886 fire which consumed five blocks in the center of the town including the St. Elmo Hotel, which previously occupied the lots on which the Pantall Hotel was built. The 1952 fire completely destroyed the second and third floors and caused extensive damage on the street and basement floors of the Pantall Hotel Block. The nature of this fire made it apparent that the Punxsutawney Fire Companies could have used an aerial ladder truck and set in motion the effort to obtain one. The damage estimate was between $150,000 and $250,000.

At the time of the fire, Frank Harl, owner of Harl’s Shoe Store and J. R. Troutman, owner of Nolph’s News Stand, both occupants of storerooms in the Pantall Hotel Building, were in Brookville as jurors in a trial. The judge recessed the trial to permit Harl and Troutman to go home to Punxsutawney to tend to their businesses. Troutman’s loss was estimated at $45,000 and Harl’s at $43,000, and, Albert’s Men’s Shop

received an unestimated amount of damage. This was a major set-back to John Wargo, who had just completed $85,000 worth of improvements to the hotel.

Fire struck a second time in the early morning of September 2, 1967, when an explosion caused roaring flames which raced through the kitchen-laundry area destroying the section of the hotel behind Williams Sport Shop and the hotel bar.

Firemen were able to reach the flames through the area behind Alberts Men’s and Boys’ store and Harl’s Shoe Store. Although the fire was contained in the rear of the hotel, it ate its way through the roof on the 2rd floor before it was under control.

The Wargos continued to operate Pantall Hotel, Inc. until 1970, when it was purchased by the Barletta family. The Barlettas planned to demolish the hotel, which by then was seriously deteriorated. However, after serious thought, they decided to capitalize on the landmark building’s aura and to restore it to its former glory as a hostelry.

There was a need to have a facility that would serve the community and the traveling public: one that could be pointed to with pride. This approach would tap into the need for a fine dining facility in the region, a place where business meetings could be held with the needed services to support the meetings and first class overnight accommodations for the traveling public. When they realized the potential for making the hotel a regional hub for these activities, they decided to restore the building to its Victorian era splendor. Jane Cunningham was engaged to manage the restaurant and later would also manage the hotel facility.

Work had scarcely begun when fire struck again. On Saturday, December 18, 1971, fire broke out in the Spencer Apartments, a two-story frame building adjacent to the south side of the Pantall Hotel building, and quickly spread to a two-story brick business and apartment building owned by the Pantall Hotel Company. The Spencer Building residents lost all their possessions as did one of the apartments in the hotel’s building which also housed Reba Hamilton’s Art Studio and the Office of Arthurs, Lestrange and Short, a stock company. Although this was a tragedy, it was also an advantage, to the Barlettas, in that it enabled the acquisition these buildings and the creation of off-street parking.

The Barlettas undertook a complete upgrade to the facility by installing new wiring, plumbing and sewage system and - Continued on page 16

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14 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242

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The Phoenix Part IV Continued from page 13

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other behind-the-scene necessities that weren’t readily seen by the public but were necessary to meet labor and industry standards. They then addressed the façade of the building - sandblasting, repointing, painting and installing exterior doors, fire doors and new fire escapes. The dining areas were improved and services expanded. The famed Coachroom, the main dining area, became the place for the Sunday Smorgasbord, gaining a reputation as a destination for residents of surrounding counties. Savory and unpretentious meals served in pleasant surroundings, which looked out upon Barclay Square, attracted customers from throughout the North Central Region. The building morphed from a “showplace” to a “landmark.” As the Barlettas continued their renovations, they attracted more groups seeking the pleasant, stress-free accommodations of rural Pennsylvania. Some groups held their regular annual meetings in Punxsutawney.

While the Barletta’s were restoring the Pantall Hotel, the borough was undergoing urban renewal. The redevelopment project in the section of Punxsutawney bordering on the Public Square, now renamed Barclay Square, increased the visibility of the Pantall Hotel as the anchor building of the town. By the mid-1980s, the hotel’s rooms on the second and third floors had been completely renovated and equipped with modern conveniences including colored television, air conditioning and full baths.

By 1988, when the Pantall Hotel was 100 years old, it had become recognized as one of Western Pennsylvania’s distinguished hotels and was a prominent part of the regional community surrounding Punxsutawney.

The Pantall Hotel hosted Annual Groundhog Day Festivities which gave it national and international exposure. In 1985, they added a new level of dining with the opening of the Rooftop Restaurant, their fifth

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16 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242

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dining room facility. And in 2000, they opened the Secret Garden dining room on the lower level of the hotel.

Many residents of Punxsutawney have fond memories of their enjoyable experiences at the Pantall Hotel: rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, family celebrations, class reunions, Groundhog Day receptions, in addition to its being a great place to take guests out to dinner.

The Barlettas continued to manage and operate the Pantall Hotel, and, in 2005 celebrated their 35th anniversary, the longest continuous operation of the hotel by a management group.

After 39 years of successful operation, the Pantall Hotel was sold to the Pantall Hospitality Group, LLC, with great hopes of continuing to provide visitors with a great Punxsutawney “experience.” The group had difficulties in maintaining the facility, and it was closed in 2013.

In March 2020, the Pantall Hotel was sold to Dennis Rodriquez, Influential Partners, LLC, the first lien holder on the property.

The Punxsutawney Spirit, on Saturday, August 1, 2020, reported: “Pantall under new ownership with restoration plans.” The Speakeasy Enterprises LLC and the Duffell family were identified as the purchasers.

With this purchase comes another new beginning for Punxsutawney’s “flagship building,” as well as the community.

Each day residents and travelers passing by the Hotel Pantall Building see the work that is being done on the building: new roofing, cleaning the brick, painting the windows outside, preparing the building for a new life.

Many are the memories of what the Pantall Hotel had been to Punxsutawney for close to 40 years during the second century of operation. Many are the hopes for success as the community and the building move toward their third century. The phoenix shall rise again.

This article has been prepared by the Coal Memorial Committee of the Punxsutawney Area Historical & Genealogical Society.

Resources used in preparing this article are from PAHGS, The Punxsutawney Spirit, and Newspapers.com. Comments may be directed to PAHGS, P.O. Box 186, Punxsutawney, PA 15767. Individuals desiring to honor a coal or coal industry related worker are encouraged to purchase their tile by June 30, 2021. A Coal Memorial tile may honor persons who worked in any aspect of the coal industry including railroads and ancillary services. Additional information and from may be found online at www.punxsyhistory.org , or may be requested by email to: punxsyhistory@outlook.com, or calling 814-938-2555 and leaving a message.

•••

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unting draws millions of people into the great outdoors every year.

Many avid hunters feel hunting is a great way to actively participate in nature while also taking responsibility for procuring one’s own food.

Hunting requires discipline, dedication, patience, and, perhaps most important, a commitment to safety. By prioritizing safety on each hunting trip, seasoned and novice hunters alike are acknowledging the potential dangers of this beloved out-

door activity while doing everything they can to ensure the trip is as safe as possible. Because safety plays such a vital role in successful hunting trips, hunters of all experience levels can benefit from a refresher course on the safety measures they should take each time they go on the hunt.

• Treat all firearms as if they’re loaded.

Treating all firearms as if they’re loaded ensures hunters won’t be tempted to engage in the kind of fooling around that can contribute to tragic accidents. This approach can reduce the risk of firearmrelated accidents or injuries, and can be an especially effective way to teach youngsters about the dangers of firearms and the correct ways to mitigate those dangers.

• Keep your finger off the trigger and only point at what you plan to shoot.

Keeping your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot ensures you won’t accidentally discharge your firearm. In addition, never point your firearm at anything other than what you plan to shoot.

• Know the forecast and dress appropriately. Firearms are not the only risk to hunters’ safety. Inclement weather can put hunters at the mercy of Mother Nature. According to the Mayo Clinic, hy-

pothermia, which occurs when the human body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, can affect hunters who are unable to get out of wet clothes or move to warm, dry locations as their bodies lose heat. In addition, hunters may be at risk of hypothermia even if temperatures are hovering around 50 F. Before embarking on a hunting trip, hunters should read the forecast of the areas where they will be hunting and dress accordingly.

Outer layers that repel water can help keep hunters dry, and hunters also should avoid wearing cotton, which retains moisture and can increase their risk for hypothermia. Clothing made with moisture-wicking fabrics is a great alternative to cotton.

• Share your plan with others. Returning home safe is the ultimate goal for hunters, and that’s more likely to happen when hunters share their hunting plans with others. Let someone, ideally a spouse, parent, roommate, or sibling, know when and where you will be hunting and when you expect to return by. Direct this loved one to call the local authorities if you do not call by a predetermined time. This can dramatically reduce the time it takes to find you if you become injured on your hunting trip and prove unable to get back to your vehicle safely.

Millions of people across the globe enjoy hunting. Avid hunters know that no hunting trip is successful if safety is not the utmost priority.

•••

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• NOW OFFERING STANDING SEAMS! • Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242 – 17

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CHARLES COOPER. GASKILL (1790-1872) In 2019, PAHGS researchers spotted an article in The Punxsutawney Spirit from 1890, which referenced and was a reprint of an article from the Pittsburgh Dispatch. The article went into great detail about the way in which land in Jefferson and other western Pennsylvania counties was made available to and sold to early settlers. The article included a hand-drawn sketch of Charles C. Gaskell (note the spelling variance) and described him as a surveyor and conveyancer. It contributed to the understanding of Gaskill’s work and connection to the Punxsutawney region and led to the highlighting of his influence at the Society’s annual dinner in 2019 by researchers Shirley Sharp and S. Thomas Curry. Gaskill was portrayed

by Shaun Donald.

The Punxsutawney Spirit microfilm collection (accessible through the Mengle Library at www.menglelibrary.org). c.1890.

The Gentleman Wore Many Hats.

Charles Cooper Gaskill (1790-1872), for whom Gaskill Township was named, was an early arrival to Jefferson County. He is described in Jefferson County historical publications as a “land agent.” The term sounds as though he could have functioned as a real estate agent. He certainly did facilitate newcomers’ purchases of land from the Holland Land Company, his employer.

Holland had obtained rights to large parcels of land in central and northwestern Penn-

sylvania. The term used then to describe his function was conveyancer; Gaskill handled the documentation and fund transactions for individual sales to settlers. With no banking options available locally, he safeguarded those funds until he could make a once- or twice-yearly trip to Philadelphia, a dangerous undertaking through unsettled territory if it were known that he carried large quantities of money, both paper and coin. A well-known Quaker businessman, all would have recognized his plain but distinctive garb and flatbrimmed hat, as well as his quality horse and conveyance. For one such trip, Gaskill had a secret compartment built into a rude farm wagon to conceal the money, hitched it to a sturdy workhorse and donned nondescript farmer’s hat and clothing. Staying at rough travelers’ inns on his trip over the mountains, he made his way safely to Philadelphia, then a Quaker banking and commercial center.

The family man, Quaker, farmer, surveyor, access road planner, sales negotiator, recordkeeper, legal representative and de facto banker (not to mention Justice of the Peace and tax collector) was an appropriate choice to honor when Gaskill Township was incorporated in 1842. One must remember that in those early days, counties in the western part of the state were not separately organized until population warranted. The same was true of townships.

Formed in 1804, Jefferson County had but one initial township—Pine Creek—incorporated in 1806. The second, once the southern half of the county was split off into a new township—Perry—was incorporated in 1818. When Charles C. Gaskill was functioning as a land agent, he traveled regularly through and was responsible for Holland Land Company transactions in what is now Clearfield, Armstrong, Jefferson and Indiana counties. At times his work took him to Venango and Erie counties. Although he left the region about 1850, he and his two sons are buried in Punxsutawney’s old Findley Street cemetery.

- Continued on page 22

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18 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242

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aints Cosmas and Damian School may in 2020, but SSCD School teachers and stulook different this year, but you will still dents are adapting like champions! Miss Versee smiling eyes behind those masks! nacchio’s kindergarten is busy reading, Our new second grade teacher, Miss Andrumoving their bodies during physically active lonis, is a new face learning and particibehind one of those pating in STEM exmasks. She graduated periments in their Magna Cum Laude socially distanced from Edinboro with classroom in our multiple certifications adapted SSCD School in early childhood edGym. First graders ucation, special eduwith Mrs. DiPietro are cation and is learning Spanish, crenationally certified in ating art and being STEM teaching. Miss safe in their adapted Andrulonis’ positive classroom in the attitude, display of school’s auditorium. faith and solid teachPreschool has 2 classPreschool cutting, pasting and painting ing practices are a rooms for fun and American flags To decorate SSCD school. blessing to our school. learning: one for She makes religion class fun, informative working and one for playing! Our lab tables and interactive! have been separated for safety by “fish tank” Social distancing, sanitizing, daily health partitions that went along with our ocean checks and face coverings may be new terms theme. Preschool themes change often to

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Special classes like library, music, maker space, computer and gym are still taking place. The library teacher has a rolling cart and visits classrooms. Returned books are placed in “Book Jail” for a few weeks until placed back in circulation. Creative socially distanced games are played in gym class with continuous use of our beautiful campus grounds, which include picnic tables and a pavilion for lunch and learning. Our courtyard, playground, baseball field and paved play areas will make great “snow play” areas at outside recess!

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Sherman “Jack” Gaston of Cloe August 1, 1930 - October 21, 2020 Jack was born in Rossiter and was the ninth of 12 children of the late Aaron Gaston and Minta (Segar) Gaston.

Jack was a graduate of Marion Center High School. He was employed most of his working life as a welder at Lombard Manufacturing in Punxsutawney and at Sam Jack Drilling of Indiana, PA. He was also a member of the First Church of God. In addition to his wife, Patricia Jean (States) Gaston, Jack is survived by three daughters: Joy (Randy) Brosius, Jill (David) Gaston Doan and Jena Gaston Prokopchuk; five grandsons, Jeremy Williams, Luke Williams, Seth Williams, Alexander Doan and Jack Prokopchuk; nine great-grandchildren; two greatgreat-grandchildren; and three sisters, Hilda Mae “Hid” Gaston, Shirley Cassidy and Joyce Carden.

He was preceded in death by four sisters, Alberta Hawk, Ruby Craft, Bernell “Nell” Gaston, Annabell Aires and four brothers, Aaron “Mike” Gaston, Dee Lex “Johnny” Gaston, Harold “Don” Gaston and Albert Gene “Tuck” Gaston.

Dementia could not steal his kindness and sense of humor, which he kept until the end. The family thanks all of his care givers and the staff at Christ the King Manor for his care and for laughing at his jokes.

McCabe Funeral Home Inc. www.mccabewaldronfh.com u Joseph William Volchko, Jr. of Punxsutawney October 21, 1939 - October 22, 2020 Joe proudly served in the U.S. Army for seven years.

Joe loved the outdoors and each morning he would read his Bible and watch for deer though his kitchen window.

One of his most notable traits was his homemade pierogis, beautiful wedding cakes, as well as the famous “Ruth and Harry’s” doughnuts and brownies.

In addition to his wife, Diana Kay Dennison, he is survived by five children, William (Jeannine) Volchko, Tammy (Ron) Painter, Lisa (Steve) Johnston, Joseph (Leigh) Volchko and Scott (Stacy) Volchko; eleven grandchildren, Tara Zimmerman, Cory (Jenny) Volchko, Shane Volchko, Stephen (Hannah) Johnston, Kelci Johnston, Josh Volchko, Brock Volchko, Shaina Painter, Nathan Bennett, DJ Aaron and Randy Clark; eleven great-grandchildren; and one sister, Victoria (Volchko) Barker.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph William Volchko, Sr. and Elizabeth Evangeline (Sabo) Volchko and three siblings, Gerald Volchko, Sherri Harding and Mary Kay Volchko.

Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc. www.shumakerfh.com u

20 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242

Margaret E. Murdock of Punxsutawney July 14, 1924 - October 27, 2020 Margaret’s husband, Louis Murdock, preceded her in death. They were married for 70 years. She and her husband were the owners of Murdock’s Bar for many years.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, Peter Zydiak and Helen (Kosko) Zydiak, a sister, Dorothy Ghezzi, and a brother, Paul Zydiak.

She was a member of Saints Cosmas and Damian Church, the Rosary Altar Society and the Catholic Daughters of America.

She was also a member of the Lindsey Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary.

Margaret is survived by three children, James (Patricia) Murdock, Connie (Michael) Hoffman and Diane (Elizabeth) Murdock. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Ryan Murdock, Nicole Murdock and finance David Perchinsky, Adam (Megan) Murdock, Christine Kohler and Kimberly (Chris) Carter; two greatgrandchildren, Karlie and Kaitlyn Kohler; a brother, Frank Zydiak; a sister-in-law, Millie Zydiak; and several nieces and nephews.

McCabe Funeral Home Inc. www.mccabewaldronfh.com u Clarence (Sam) J. Reitz, 79 Clarence passed away Nov. 1, 2020.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents, Ruth Buck Reitz Pierce and Irvin Reitz, his wife, Mary Alice Reitz, thirteen brothers and sisters, two grandsons, as well as a granddaughter and a step daughter.

Clarence is survived by his daughters, Stacy L. Reitz, Samantha (Daryl) Botelho, Darla (John) Connors and Laurie (Rick) Hinderliter. He is also survived by twelve grandchildren, Jessi, Ricky, Julya, Austin, Mary, Cory, James, Dustin, Courtney, Autumn, Kelsey and Jed, as well as 24 greatgrandchildren and a life-long friend, Larry Kauffman.

He was employed at Neal’s Septic Service and installed telephone lines for Bell Telephone.

In his spare time, Clarence enjoyed hunting, fishing and boxing. He was also a collector of Coca-Cola memorabilia and salt & pepper items.

Richard L. Fait Funeral Home www.faitfuneralhome.com u Robert L. Hanley of Punxsutawney October 14, 1933 - November 6, 2020 On November 10, 1962, he married Barbara S. (Postlewaite) Hanley, who survives.

Robert served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956 in the Anti-Aircraft 73rd Armored Field “D” Battery Artillery Battalion.

He worked as a truck driver for TW Phillips Gas Company and also as an electrician.

He was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Punxsutawney, a charter member of the Past to Present Machinery Association, a fifty-year member of the John W. Jenks Masonic Lodge #534 and a member of the Punxsy Saddle Club.

In addition to his wife, Barbara, he is survived by six brothers, Samuel Hanley, Paul

(Catharine) Hanley, Gilbert “Bud” Hanley, George (Jeannine) Hanley and Raymond (Darlene) Hanley; three sisters, Maxine Cooper, Mary Leonard and Kathy (Richard) Conrad; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Maude M. (Reeseman) and George Hanley, he was preceded in death by a brother, Jim Hanley, sisters Sally Lou Whitesell and Jean Ann Cignetti, an infant brother, Arnold Hanley, and an infant sister, Barbara Hanley.

Deeley Funeral Home, Inc. www.deeleyfuneralhome.com u Frank James Powell of Punxsutawney November 23, 1966 - November 7, 2020 Frank was a 1985 graduate of Punxsutawney Area High School.

He was the owner of Frank’s Country Palace in Dayton for 25 years and also worked very hard as a self-employed butcher at his family’s farm in Dora.

He enjoyed spending time with his friends, liked watching the races and sponsoring race cars for fifteen years.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Lee Powell.

In addition to his mother, M. Marie (Orf) Powell, he is survived by two brothers, Richard (Tammy) Powell and Wayne (Regina) Powell, four sisters, Linda (Harold) Foose, Kathy (Adam) Lewis, Donna (Vaughn) Shoemaker and Julia Schimp and numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews, all who loved him dearly.

Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc. www.shumakerfh.com u Richard G. “Dick” Fetterman of Punxsutawney September 3, 1947 - November 8, 2020 Dick served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Punxsutawney where he served as an elder and a Deacon.

He graduated from Punxsutawney High School in 1965 and earned his bachelor’s in Social Studies and his Masters in Adult Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

Dick worked as the Executive Director for the Jefferson County Board of Assistance.

He was a member of the John W. Jenks Masonic Lodge #534 and served on the boards of Community Action, the Housing Authority and Circle Hill Cemetery.

He was preceded in death by parents, Alice B. (Gourley) and Gerald Fetterman.

On May 25, 1968, he married Linda L. (Pennington) Fetterman, who survives. He is also survived by two children, Melissa Fetterman and Jason (Judy) Fetterman; five grandchildren, Jordan, Bailee and Easton Fetterman and Cameron and Lincoln Peace; a brother, David (Debbie) Fetterman; a special niece, Brandi Peace; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Deeley Funeral Home, Inc. www.deeleyfuneralhome.com u - Continued on next page

- Continued from previous page

Bonnie Jean (Neal) Stuchell of Punxsutawney March 22, 1939 - November 8, 2020 She was a long-time Good News Club teacher for Child Evangelism Fellowship, was the past president and founder of the Punxsutawney chapter of Aglow International and participated in mission trips to Russia, Turkey and Israel.

Bonnie was a talented and artistic seamstress and quilter who operated Lydia’s Quilt Shop for many years in the village of Fairview.

Bonnie is survived by her son, Dennis (Cynthia) Stuchell and her daughter, Drinda (Brian) Smith. She is also survived by six grandchildren, Andrew, Christopher and Victoria Stuchell, Caleb Riggleman and Mollie and Mercy Smith; one great-grandchild, Bailey Riggleman; and one sister, Susan Gould. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Otto and Margaret Croasmun Neal, she was preceded in death by her husband, William Stuchell, her son, Jonathan Stuchell, two grandchildren, Luke Smith and Joel Riggleman and two sisters, Nancy Meanor and Arlene Potts, who recently passed away on October 27, 2020.

Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc. www.shumakerfh.com u Vernon Dale Winebark of Rossiter December 3,1932 - November 10, 2020 Vernon was an attendee of the Ernest Bible Church. He graduated from Marion Center High School and Williamsport Community College for Welding. He was a United States Army Veteran and was stationed in West Germany in the 1950s. Vernon was retired from Youngstown Steel Door and Barr Mine Repair. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved hunting and fishing throughout the U.S. and Canada. He also enjoyed gardening. Vernon was active in remembering veterans by placing flags on gravesites around his home in Canoe Township. He had a kind spirit and also enjoyed transporting his Amish friends to appointments as needed.

He is survived by two nephews, Phillip (Rebecca) of Woodburn, Oregon, and David (Kathryn) Lowmaster of Hannibal, New York, a niece-by-marriage, Diana Lowmaster of Indiana and a close friend, Sarah Hosack, Smicksburg, PA. He was preceded in death by his parents, James A. Winebark and E. Ruth (Stiver) Winebark, a sister, Vivian and husband James E. Lowmaster, a niece, Judy and husband Joe Holiday and two nephews, Paul Lowmaster and Steven Lowmaster.

McCabe Funeral Home Inc. www.mccabewaldronfh.com u

Mary Jane Sutter of Punxsutawney January 5, 1942 - November 14, 2020 Mary Jane was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother and Gigi, her grandchildren and great grandchildren were the light of her life. She worked at International Jensen most of her life. She was retired from Walmart. Mary Jane enjoyed baking and cooking for everyone, crocheting, and especially enjoyed her job as the greeter at Walmart.

She is survived by three daughters and a son. Sherry Phillips and fiancé Barry, Beth Shaffer and fiancé Louie, Jimmy (Robin) Filler and Val Filler. Seven grandchildren Eddie (Kelly) Phillips, Mark Shaffer, Heather (Tom) Ramarge, Kayla (Justin) Smith, Seairra (Chad) Rudolph, Amber (George) Reitz and Dylan (Meghen) Filler, ten great grandchildren, Madison, Kylee, Emma, Finnlee, Paige, Kennadi, Avery, Easton, Liam and expecting Elena. Three sisters, Pat Bowser, Alice Rend And Margie Loncaric. A brother Leroy O’Harra, and close family friend Paula Gregory.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Margaret (Hurst) Hinton, husband of 13 years Leeland (Lee) Sutter, great grandson Kayden and a sister Kathy.

McCabe Funeral Home Inc. www.mccabewaldronfh.com

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u Emery M. “Spud” Caylor Jr. of Ringgold passed April 12, 1942 - November 14, 2020 Spud was a member of Ringgold United Methodist Church, Ringgold Volunteer Fire Company, and the Ringgold Sportsman Club. He retired from Altel Communications after 38 years. Spud was the caretaker of the Ringgold Cemetery for over 34 years. He enjoyed traveling to his camp in Bennezette and hunting.

He was a Veteran of the Vietnam War serving with the United States Army.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years Roxine D. Caylor, a son Timothy J. Caylor, a grandson Ty Caylor and sister Betty Snyder.

He was preceded in death by parents, Emery M. and Mary A. (Reed) Caylor, four sisters, Doris Kennedy, Imogene Lingenfelter, Frances Hartman, Josephine Snyder, two brothers, Robert Caylor and Harry Caylor McCabe Funeral Home Inc. www.mccabewaldronfh.com u Please visit the website of the funeral homes listed to view complete obituary, sign their guestbook and offer your condolences. uuu

Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242 – 21

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WAINWRIGHT SCHOOL The one-room school in Gaskill Township was attended by Gene McGee for most of his elementary grades and was among those at which Homer Zufall taught during his career. The school was located on McIntosh Road, according to www.punxsypa.com website. Photograph from www.punxsypa.com. c. late 20th century.

Gaskill Township

HOMER AUGUSTUS ZUFALL (1904-1992) While no photograph of Zufall as an adult has yet surfaced, a search online revealed a childhood photograph of him at, presumably, his father’s knee. www.Ancestry.com public member photographs. c.1907.

Continued from page 18

With all of his many hats, how did Charles C. Gaskill have any connection to early education in the region? The answer lies in the records of Young Township, where, in 1825, the township elected several persons as “school men” to oversee educational matters. Today, these “school men” would be described as school board directors, and they had much to do with site selection and building of early schools, authorization of courses of study and hiring of schoolteachers and setting school calendars. In 1835, the very first directors elected for (presumably) Young Township were Charles C. Gaskill, James Winslow and James Torrence. Gaskill had the task of examining the first teacher, Mr. Timblin. The school was conducted in a log structure build by John W. Jenks and occupied then by Torrence.

The Gentleman Became A Career Educator.

Homer Augustus Zufall (1904-1992), the son of George and Mary E. Muth Zufall, was born in Henderson Township. He obtained a college education and had a 41year teaching career in Henderson, Gaskill and Big Run schools. He was a member of the Paradise Church, belonged to several education-related organizations and, in later life, resided in Gaskill Township. His obituary does not note that he served during WWII, but his draft registration then describes him as a married man 37 years of age, with a ruddy complexion and black

hair. A September 1926 clipping from the Brookville American, notes in a column of Big Run news that a number of persons, including a young Homer Zufall, had returned home from Clarion where they had been attending college during the summer months. He and his wife, Helen Gould Zufall, are buried at Circle Hill.

According to Kate Scott’s 1888 history of Jefferson County, Gaskill Township’s pioneer school was begun in the Bowers Settlement in 1844; she stated that by 1888, schools in the township numbered eleven.

The Punxsutawney Area School District’s 1960 list of school closings includes the following Gaskill Township schools: McCarty (1950), Davis (1950), Winslow (1950, Foxburg (1952), McElhaney (1952), Wainwright (1952) and Rossiter. As noted in earlier Hometown articles, teachers in the township schools generally were reassigned to several within the township over the course of their careers, depending on each school’s need, so that a student attending all eight grades at one school was likely to have experienced several different teachers.

- Continued on page 24

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Gaskill Township Continued from page 22 The Gentleman Remembers His Eight One-Room School Years.

Clyde Eugene “Gene” McKee, son of Clyde and Ruth Bowers McKee of Gaskill Township, remembers well his student days.

For most of his first eight grades he attended the Wainwright School in Gaskill Township.

Midway through those eight years, his family relocated, and he attended a school in Henderson Township; when the family soon returned to Gaskill, Gene returned to the Wainwright School to complete his elementary education, where one of his early teachers was Mr. Homer Zufall, noted above. He recalls all his teachers having the responsibility, not just of teaching, but of doing the

chores associated with school life such as the building and maintenance of a fire in the stove during the winter. He also remembers today many things he learned as a student, each of his school years being an important part of his education.

DAVIS SCHOOL This was a one-room school in Gaskill Township, located on Hillman Road, according to www.punxsypa.com, but it is no longer standing. Image part of PAHGS School collections. c. early 20th century.

What a Difference A Year Makes.

It was not uncommon for rural school teachers to hold students back a year as needed and to skip students forward a year as their abilities and circumstances warranted. During WWII, a single student in one grade might occasionally be skipped ahead, assuming the student was capable of handling the advanced studies. It facilitated the elimination of a grade during a period of wartime teacher shortages. When asked about his memories of his teachers, Gene remembers that Mr. Zufall, his third-grade

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This brochure is published by the Eldercare Locator and the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center. Eldercare Locator is the only national information and referral resource to provide support to consumers across the spectrum of issues affecting older Americans. Established in 1991 and funded by the Administration for Community Living, it is administered by the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging.

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CLYDE EUGENE “GENE” MCKEE Another man of many hats, Gene McKee was featured by Punxsutawney Hometown in its Number 217 issue in November 2018. The writer, Gloria Kerr, elicited from Gene many of his school and military experiences and provided a complete picture of his other lifetime work and achievements. Punxsutawney Hometown magazine cover image www.issuu.com. c.2019.

teacher, planned to advance him and another third grader to fifth grade the following year as they were both good students. That was the year his family moved to Henderson Township and Gene’s advancement did not happen. The other student did advance. Had he skipped fourth grade, he would have completed high school in Big Run with the class of 1944 and, because he planned to join the U.S. Navy, knows he would have been sent to the Pacific to take part in wartime operations there. As a member of the class of 1945, he was informed by the administration that, as a good student who had completed all necessary requirements, he would be allowed to graduate at the end of the first semester. He did so and joined the Navy then.

He was assigned to a ship in the Atlantic whose function was to seek and destroy German submarines. After Allied victory was achieved in Europe, Gene and his cohorts were told they could expect to be posted to the Pacific as part of the planned invasion of Japan. Many feared that most would not survive this assault. As the world knows, the assault was replaced with the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, sparing many American service members. Following the war, Gene was married to the late Marion Ethel Reed McKee. In this interval between Veterans Day and Pearl Harbor Day, it is good to know of those young service members from local towns and farms whose adult decisions and adult lives were strengthened by their experiences in education, including the one- and tworoom rural schools.

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

December 3, 1868 — Owing to the rough conditions of the roads, travel has been almost entirely suspended in this section, and business in our town has been rather dull for the past few days. Our streets, from present appearances, are bottomless. Another “spell of weather” will render them in a delightful condition - for ducks. It takes a tall pair of boots to touch bottom at some places. (Punxsutawney Plaindealer) December 6, 1893 — Our newsman was told the other evening of a case of suffering for want of the necessities of life. It was one among the miners. The miner, who had been in the habit of taking his dinner pail with him when he went to work, started in to dig coal.

A companion noticed that he had no dinner pail and asked if he expected to go home to dinner. The man replied that if he had brought his dinner with him his children at home would have had to do without their breakfast.

There are many other cases that could be cited to awaken in the breast of every citizen

a desire to do something to help relieve the want that exists here. (Punxsutawney News) December 7, 1887 — Two Hungarians have each purchased a lot on the South Side of the creek from ‘Squire Bell. This is the first instance that has come to our knowledge of a Hungarian laborer investing in real estate.

They usually send all their surplus funds back to Hungary. (The Punxsutawney Spirit) [NOTE: This reference to “South Side” would be a reference to the south side of Punxsutawney, across the Mahoning Creek to the old Indiana Street area.]

December 15, 1886 — The Commissioners were in town on Saturday evening, called here by the burning of the bridge at Clayville.

They deserve credit for their prompt action in this matter for they have in this issue advertised for proposals for the erection of a new structure. (Valley News) [NOTE: “Valley News” was changed to Punxsutawney News in June 1887. The bridge in Clayville was a wooden covered bridge located at Grace Way and crossed Mahoning Creek in the valley to reach the hill on the south side.

Fifty years later the expansive “Margiotti Bridge” was built to span the valley to the south side.]

December 16, 1869 — I.O.O. of F. - A lodge of Odd Fellows was organized in Brookville on Tuesday, evening last, by the the D.G.M. for this district, Mr. A. Rudolph, of this place. Mr. Andrew Craig was installed as N.G. Quite a number of the members of Laurel Lodge, of this borough, were present to witness the occasion. (Punxsutawney Plaindealer) [NOTE: Punxsutawney’s Laurel Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F) was charted in May 1869.]

•••

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1265 Wayne Avenue, Suite 106 Indiana, PA 135 Midway Drive, Suite B Dubois, PA Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242 – 25

Hometown Community Happenings

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During the remainder of 2020, the Coal Memorial Committee and the Society will be exploring ways to use modern technology to provide information on local history for the public.

Please note the Punxsutawney Area Historical and Genealogical Society Facilities are closed to the public until further notice. Gift Shop items may be purchased online and Genealogy searches may be requested by e-mail.

Find us at: www.punxsyhistory.org Email: punxsyhistory@outlook.com

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By the staff of Hometown magazine rom the staff of Hometown magazine and the Community Calendar at Punxsutawney.com, here is a list of events coming up in our area: At press time, some events were being cancelled or postponed due to the Coronavirus restrictions. Please check with the host organization, website, or Facebook page for up-to-date information. n Hometown Steeler Football Contest Winner. The Steelers crushed the Bengals with a final game score of 36 to 10 on Sunday, November 15. Diana Maruca of Anita had the closest total score of 45. She wishes to redeem her gift certificate at our local Shop 'n Save.

Congratulations, Diana.

You need to enter to win. Please remember to put your total points on the outside of your envelope. Only one entry per envelope, please. n Nov. 26: Thanksgiving! Remember all for which you have to be thankful. n Nov. 27, 28 & 29: Smicksburg Small Business Weekend, various locations around Smicksburg. n Nov. 28: 30 th Annual Home for Holidays Parade, 6:30 p.m. in downtown Punxsutawney, followed by the Tree Lighting at Barclay Square. n Dec. 4-6: Victorian Christmas celebration in Brookville, various locations around town. n Dec. 5: Cookie Tour, various locations around Smicksburg.

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Punxsutawney, PA

26 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242

n Dec. 5: Boy Scout Astronomy Merit Badge, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pre-register by Nov. 27 at info@weatherdiscovery.org or 814-938-1000. n Dec. 10: Hanukkah begins. n Dec. 12: The Christmas Event, 6 p.m. at One Life Church, Punxsutawney.

Register at onelifepunxsy.org. Will include music, ventriloquist, refreshments and games & crafts for kids. n Dec. 15: Blood Drive, noon to 6 p.m. at Punxsutawney VFW. Benefits American Red Cross. n Dec. 24: Christmas Eve worship services: 7 p.m. at Mt. Zion, Airport Road; 7 p.m., Punxsutawney First Church of God, 23 Skyview Drive; 9 p.m. at First English Lutheran Church; 11 p.m. at Mt. Zion, Trade City. n Dec. 25: Christmas! n The Punxsutawney Memorial Library is open limited hours & is offering some of its services. Check its website or Facebook page or call the library for more information. n Grange’s Helping Hands, free clothing at Grange Church of God. Check its Facebook page or call the church for dates. Limited to 15 people at a time. Must wear a mask. If unable to wear a mask, call the church at 814-9382050 for an appointment. n The Salvation Army’s Treasures for Children Christmas wish list tags are available. Call 814-938-5530 for more information. n Hunting seasons are starting. Please check the PA Game Commission website for license requirements and opening dates. Get your hunting supplies at one of Hometown’s advertisers. n Mass is still a special time for SSCD School students. Kindergarten through second grade get to watch from their classrooms through the streaming service Twitch. We invite you to join our third through sixth graders during our Children’s Mass celebration on Friday mornings at 9 a.m. at https://www.twitch.tv/sscdschuch or socially distanced in our church. n The Jefferson County History Center plans to be open and offering the Bowdish model train displays this fall.

Check its Facebook page or contact the museum for more information. n Email your hometown community happenings items to hometown@punxsutawneymagazine.com.

•••

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Orders for Delivery will be accepted up to 30 min. of closing.

New Hours as of June 1st 2020: Sun., thru Thurs., 11 am to 9 pm Fri., & Sat., 11am to 10 pm PIZZA TOWN GIFT CARDS MAKE GREAT GIFTS!

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7:15 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 1 pm 4:25 pm 1 pm 1 pm 8:20 pm 1 pm 8:20 pm 8:15 pm 1 pm 1 pm

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CONTEST RULES

1. Complete the coupon on this page.

2. Guess the winning team and the total number of points you think will be scored in the Steelers vs.

Bills Game and enter the guesses in the spaces provided on the coupon.

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:‘Steelers Football Contest,’ c/o Hometown magazine, 129 Aspen Road, Punxsutawney, PA 15767. PLEASE MARK YOUR TEAM PICK & TOTAL POINTS ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE ENVELOPE. ONLY ONE ENTRY PER ENVELOPE. 5. Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Thur., Nov. 12 6. No purchase necessary to participate. All entries must be original magazine coupon (no photocopies).

7. In the event two or more contestants correctly pick the winning team and total number of points, one winner will be randomly selected and awarded the winning prize. In event two or more contestants tie for closest to the total score, one winner will be randomly selected to win the $20 certificate. Each issue we will give one $20 certificate.

8. Hometown magazine retains the right to make any final decisions regarding the contest, and by submitting an entry, contestants agree to abide by the rules of the contest.

www.pizzatownpunxsy.com

W. Mahoning St., Punxsy Plaza

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DINE IN, CALL TO PLACE YOUR ORDER, OR ORDER ONLINE 814-938-2380

Sun., Dec. 13 • 8:30 p.m.

Hometown magazine ‘Steelers Football Contest’: Complete, Clip, Drop off or Mail to: Steelers Football Contest c/o Hometown magazine, 129 Aspen Road, Punxsutawney, PA 15767

TO QUALIFY FOR Name __________________________________ CONTEST YOU THE ST MARK YOUR TEAMU Address ________________________________ M PICK & TOTAL POINTS ON THE OU TSI DE OF THE Zip __________________________________ ENVELOPE. ONLY ON ENTRY PER ENVELO E PE. Phone ________________________________

Coupon for Game of Sun., Dec. 10 Step 1: Guess the Winning Team: __ Steelers vs. __ Bills Step 2: Guess the Total Points that will be Scored in that Game: _______ Total Points Step 3: Should I win, I would like to redeem my merchandise certificate at: (List business from this page) _____________________

Located along Rt. 36 N. Halfway between Punxsy and Brookville

849-6396

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Mon. & Tues. 6:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Wed.-Fri. 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Sat 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Laska’s Pizza 405 N. Main St. Punxsutawney

938-4647 COLD 6-PACKS TO GO

LARGE SELECTION OF SPECIALTY AND CRAFT BEERS NEW BEER AND PUMPKIN FLAVORS IN STOCK HOT DRINKS

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NOVEMBER PIZZA:

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Our Christmas Pizza will be back Dec. 1

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938-9584

588 W. Mahoning St. Punxsutawney

CARULLI AUTO SALES & SERVICE Let us take care of your vehicle We offer a full line of

Auto Repairs

WE'VE GOT TIRES!

We now carry all the Schluter shower components — in stock now.

Pick up everything you need to get started today on a custom tiled shower.

HAVE IT READY TO GO WHEN YOUR TILE ARRIVES.

Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242 – 27

Wishing you and your family the best this Providing holiday season.

Families the Best Care at Their Worst Time

Providing Families the Best Care at Their Worst Time

McCabe

Waldron

Andrew R. Philliber, Supervisor

Lisa J. Waldron, Supervisor

FUNERAL HOME INC. Lisa J. Waldron, Funeral Director

FUNERAL HOME

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Andrew R. Philliber, Funeral Director 125 Market St., Mahaffey

814-938-0400

814-277-9911

Joe Buterbaugh, Funeral Associate

www.mccabewaldronfh.com 28 – Punxsutawney Hometown – Holiday 2020 - Issue #242