CURWENSVILLE – “Better than honor and glory and history’s iron pen was the thought of duty done and the love of his fellow-men.”
That was the sentiment of American poet and editor Richard Watson Gilder in his work titled, “The New Day,” which certainly speaks to the heart of our veterans who have so selflessly given up their lives to service of our Nation and its people.
But, Saturday marks our opportunity to say “thank you” and offer a show of support during an inaugural Veterans Appreciation Day event hosted by the Clearfield County Veteran’s Affairs Office in conjunction with Curwensville Lake, from 1 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the lake.
“We wanted a day to just lift up our veterans for what they have done for us, our country,” expressed VA Director Misty Doran, adding that many continue their service of others today within our local communities.
“They guard our prisons, our jails and are our firemen. Some have leadership roles. They actively seek out opportunities to give back and volunteer. They help each other and others.”
“So, this is a day to say ‘we see you, we notice you—what you have done and are still doing for us—and we say thank you,’” expressed Doran.
During Saturday’s event, there will be a Cornhole Tournament that will follow a switcholio format with a $20 fee per person. Registration will begin at 12 p.m., with tournament play to get underway at 1 p.m., with the other event festivities.
Other festivities include a Chinese auction, flea market, bake and craft sales, approximately 50 vendors/resources and more. Both Children’s Aid Society and CenClear will provide kid’s activities, and there will be veterans-specific giveaways while supplies last.
Heather Olson-Desmett of Curwensville will sing the national anthem and local veteran Hank Tatum will offer opening remarks and prayer.
Monetary donations will be accepted and all proceeds from the event will benefit the county’s approximately 5,507 known veterans.
All are encouraged to attend, and in support of the event, Curwensville Lake has waived its admission fee.
Anyone in need of further event details may contact the Clearfield County VA Office by phone at 814-765-2642.