CLEARFIELD – The second of the late Arlene Swales’ two dream projects recently got under way at the Expo II building.
Arlene Swales helped to form the committee that developed the Clearfield County Fair Queen program in 1988. When she passed away in April 2009, she was chairperson of the Fair Queen Committee.
The first of her two dream projects was the renovation and expansion of the Fair Queen’s office and dressing rooms. According to Bob Swales, this project was finished by Clearfield County Career and Technology Center students in time for the 2006 Queen’s Court.
Students studying carpentry and electrical from the CCCTC are building a kitchen in the Expo II building in the Clearfield Driving Park. Bob Swales said the kitchen, the second of his late wife’s dream projects, will help in future fundraising efforts and to help the fair board market the building as a premier rental facility.
“Although her health was deteriorating rapidly she still wanted to push ahead,” said Bob Swales.
He said they contacted state Rep. Camille “Bud” George (D-74 Houtzdale) in an attempt to obtain a grant. George was able to secure a $5,000 grant and area businesses either donated items or offered discounts. Bob Swales said a full list of contributors will be available upon the kitchen’s completion.
George was on hand Thursday while the students were working. He was thrilled that they had the opportunity to work on the project.
“These young people, donating their time,” said George. “It’s a wonderful, wonderful thing they do.”
“What Arlene and her husband started has been very beneficial,” George added.
Lois Richards, director of the CCCTC, stated that the work will make the building more useable.
“We’re really happy to work with the Fair Board again,” said Richards. She added that this was at least the third project the CCCTC has partnered on with them.
Richards also said that this gives the students live work experience. Robin Steffan, head of the carpentry department, agreed.
“Live work is the best experience,” he said. “This is the real deal. We have a pride factor.”
“It’s a lasting testament to their experience with the CCCTC,” said Richards. She continued, stating that this was something the students could show their children and grandchildren.
Getting the students to the Expo II building is no easy task. While CCCTC has a van to transport small numbers of students to projects, on days like Thursday, where 21 students were on hand, other transportation options are needed. Bob Swales said that Fullington Bus has donated bus service to help in the effort.
“I really appreciate them doing it,” said Bob Swales.
He added that Fullington has been a good partner and has worked with them in the past. He also thanked George, the CCCTC, Richards, Steffan, Jack Rumfola of the electrical department and the drafting department under Brad Dixon.
Drafting student Andrew Brown designed the kitchen.
“A special ‘thank-you’ goes out to the Clearfield Fire Department for donating a commercial, 10-burner, double-oven, gas stove,” said Bob Swales. “As of this time we are still in need of several major items such as a commercial sink and an 8-to-10 foot ventilation hood with an exhaust fan.
“We would be very grateful to anyone that could help us in any way to complete this project.”